• Comment:

    The OPTIMAL approach involves various disciplines, which interact with each other in order to achieve the project objectives. Material research and photochemistry is needed to develop the suitable photoresists (MRT). Laser technology knowledge (JOR, ISE) is required for developing novel laser lithography methods, machines, and processes. The electronics finds its application in the optical based sensors for in-line monitoring, controlling the laser sources and patterning (ILC, DPX). The software engineering expertise (UPR) completes the required skills for the development of self-learning algorithms for generating the virtual photomasks. Mechanical and environmental engineering deal with the equipment and manufacturing processes and their life cycle assessment (JOR). Experts in training and communication science (ILC, UPR) will design workshops and training materials to explain and promote the developed technologies to broad public and stakeholders. 

  • Comment:

    The OPTIMAL project will integrate for the first-time different laser lithography technologies, quality monitoring systems and processes in one platform for the development of structures with high depth, dimensions in the range from 100 nm to sub-mm, 2D&3D shape on flat surface, combining parallel & serial patterning, no need for external treatments on samples, increased speed and large area. The OPTIMAL consortium consists of three research institutes (JOR, ISE, ILC), one university (UPR), member of the Italian Photonics Association, three Small Medium Enterprises (MRT, DPX, HYP), two big industries, leaders in their corresponding market (SDA and BCD).

  • Comment:

    The OPTIMAL platform will be validated through the manufacturing of master tools for four different use cases: a) full-polymer micro lenses for industrial optics, b) hierarchical multifunctional drag reduction riblet structures for aviation, c) free-form lens arrays for high-end virtual reality displays and d) microfluidic hierarchical structures for lab on chip medical devices.The OPTIMAL consortium consists of three research institutes (JOR, ISE, ILC), one university (UPR), member of the Italian Photonics Association, three Small Medium Enterprises (MRT, DPX, HYP), two big industries, leaders in their corresponding market (SDA and BCD).