CMM 3_7 PROGRESS_Layout 1 - Commercial Micro Manufacturing

What’s new in Switzerland?
Novel Replication Method for Reflective
Optically Variable Image Devices
Microcut Ltd
C: Mr. H. Frutig
T: +41 32 654 15 15
E: info@microcut.ch
W: www.microcut.ch
Microcut is a manufacturer of Honing machines for bores of 0.015 mm to
4 mm in diameter. It provides machines, tools and job order production, as
well as a sub-contract service.
SARIX SA, Losone
C: Franck Leleu
T: +41 91 785 81 73
E: sales@sarix.com
W: www.sarix.com
The container cap shown was moulded by a commercial
injection moulding company, Brac AG of Switzerland.
Karmic has recently
developed a novel
replication method for its
proprietary Reflective
Optically Variable Image
devices (ROVIDs). As
shown in the figure, a micro
machined shim is
assembled onto a die (1)
which is fitted (2) to an
appropriately modified
mould. Each injection
moulded part (3)
subsequently produced
bears a faithful replica of the
original micro structured
relief. For the part shown,
the cycle time for each
injection is unchanged
compared to an equivalent
part with no micro relief.
Karmic currently plans to
extend the reach of this
technique to other MST
application areas such as
micro optics and micro
fluidics. The inserts shown
are easily interchangeable
and the mould is available
for third party testing.
Karmic Sàrl, Lausanne
C: Dr Yit-shun Leung Ki
T: +41 21 311 0961
E: info@karmic.ch
W: www.karmic.ch
SARIX offers a unique machine, a versatile Micro EDM technology, combining
the Micro EDM Drilling up to the 3D Micro EDM Milling. The options integrated
into the machine ‘a single setup process’ reinforce the position of SARIX as
world leader in micro EDM machining. A complete synergy of these machining
ways with additional features as Multi-axis motion CNC Controller, automatic
electrode re-feeding spindle associated with an electrode changer and most of
it a “Built-in” Wire dress device to create and shape micro electrodes are
integrated functions which are still keeping the SARIX machines on the
leading edge of the real micro machining performance. The latest
development of the SX-UFPS generator (Ultra Fine Pulse Shape) with impulse
of 10 ns, pushed down the scale of the machining to 50 NANO surface
finishing.
Swiss DIRECTORY
In association with
Colibrys Switzerland Ltd, Neuchâtel
T: +41 32 720 5811
E: info@colibrys.com
W: www.colibrys.com
COLIBRYS is a world-leading supplier of standard and semi-custom MEMS
based motion sensors to the harsh-environments (military, aerospace and
energy) and safety critical (industrial and instrumentation) applications.
COLIBRYS family of motion sensors includes extremely low noise and shock
resistant seismic sensors, high-stability, high-shock inertial accelerometers
and DC coupled capacitive vibration sensors.
Mecartex SA
C: Stefano Bottinelli
T: +41 91 806 9777
E: info@mecartex.ch
W: www.mecartex.ch
Mecartex is a young and dynamic company working in field of very high
precision. It offers an outstanding know-how in the fields of design and
manufacture of complex precision mechanisms. The business of Mecartex is
focused on a specialised engineering service: the development of highprecision
systems for measuring and positioning devices. Core activities of
Mecartex can be divided into two main areas: design and manufacture of highprecision
products and devices based on flexures technology; manufacture of
complex, high-precision mechanical parts using the Electro Discharge
Machining (EDM) process. Mecartex’s specific know-how is essential in order
to manufacture complex mechanical parts.
Micronarc, Neuchâtel
C: Edward Byrne
T: +41 32 720 09 00
E: byrne@micronarc.ch
W: www.micronarc.ch
Micronarc is a dedicated micro-nanotech cluster and communication platform
created by the governments of the seven cantons that constitute Western
Switzerland. Its primarily role is the development and promotion of the
regional scientific, industrial and economic base in the sectors of micro and
nanotechnology, as well as its educational structures, R&D facilities,
technology transfer and inward investment. To achieve its objectives,
Micronarc manages and operates its internet portal — www.micronarc.ch,
organises grouped booths at industry trade shows and scientific conferences;
organises professional and public events locally; provides information and
networking possibilities and acts as a facilitator in establishing business
relations.
Willemin-Macodel SA, Delémont
C: Philippe Zürcher
T: +41 32 4270303
E: info@willemin-macodel.com
W: www.willemin-macodel.com
High-precision machine tools, 3, 4 or 5 axis vertical machining centres,
5 simultaneous axis machining; 5–8 axis bar-stock milling/turning, 3 or 4 axis
front lathes, turnkey solutions development applications: watch industry,
medical, precision engineering, mould industry, dental.
CSEM SA,
C: Matthias Krieger
T: +41 41 672 7533
E: matthias.krieger@csem.ch
W: www.csem.ch
CSEM is an independent research and development company, partially
funded by the Swiss confederation. It provides, under a single roof, cutting
edge R&D services for stringent applications. By combining micro systems
technologies (sensors and actuators), with advanced vision concepts, wireless
communication systems, signal treatment and embedded intelligence, CSEM
offers to its partners a clear competitive advantage for applications in the fields
of: automotive, space & aeronautics; medical & healthcare; measurement &
testing; micro robotics; security. Thanks to strong national and international
partnerships CSEM opens opportunities to access to high-level collaborations
in fundamental research.
cmm 3/7 www.micromanu.com 15

Swiss DIRECTORY
Emissa SA, Le Locle
C: Haller Jean-Francois
T: +41 32 933 06 66
E: info@emissa.com
W: www.emissa.com
The company specialises in the development and manufacture special
machines. Its products are designed to stand up to the rigors of high
production, as well as satisfying the demands of watch industries. Its turret
heads and multi spindle heads machines, in particular, can reduce the multiple
clamping required for all sizes of intricate parts. EMISSA provides solutions for
increased productivity in the clients’ operations. Its products can be
engineered according to the clients’ needs of all sorts and sizes. The
company’s machines have been utilised in all kinds of industry, as miniature
as watch making and as large as automobile or energies industries. It has
enjoyed a strong relationship with the automobile industry in particular.
FSRM (Swiss Foundation for Research in Microtechnology), Neuchâtel
C: Annette Locher
T: +41 32 720 09 00
E: fsrm@fsrm.ch
W: www.fsrm.ch
The FSRM is an international leader for in-service training in micro and nano
technologies. It currently offers over 30 state-of-the-art courses held at various
locations throughout Europe. The courses cover most of the commonly used
technologies, suitable design methods and the most typical fields of
applications. Course topics are, for example: biomedical engineering,
cantilever-based sensors, carbon nanotubes, micro fabrication, micro fluidics,
micro optics, packaging, reliability, etc. FSRM courses specifically address
engineers and researchers. Over 4,000 people, of whom 80% work in industry,
have already gone to the FSRM to update their skills. Companies particularly
appreciate the practice-oriented approach and the fact that FSRM courses are
limited in duration to one or two days. The consistently high quality of the
FSRM courses is assured through a broad network of over 40 specialists.
These instructors, coming directly from both the private sector and academic
institutions, bring professional knowledge that can be directly put into practice
by the participants.
Karmic Sàrl, Lausanne
C: Dr Yit-shun Leung Ki
T: +41 21 311 0961
E: info@karmic.ch
W: www.karmic.ch
Karmic develops and supplies anti-counterfeiting devices based on the
proprietary ROVID technology, in-line solution (no labels), customisable to the
client’s production, fast turnaround, suitable for all plastic products.
Maxon Motor, Sachseln
C: Albert Bucheli
T: +41 41 666 15 00
E: info@maxonmotor.com
W: www.maxonmotor.com
Maxon Motor is reportedly the world’s leading supplier of high-precision drives
and systems of up to 500 Watts power output. The company develops and
manufactures brushless and brushed DC motors with the unique ironless
maxon winding, in addition to iron-cored brushless flat motors. The modular
product range is further complemented by planetary, spur and special
gearheads, feedback devices and control electronics. The design and
production of high-tech CIM and MIM components are achieved at a special
competence centre. maxon motor stands for high quality, innovation,
competitive prices and a worldwide distribution network.
MicroPrécis SA, Genève
C: Charles Egli
T: +41 22 301 77 71
E: microprecis@yahoo.com
W: www.microprecis.ch
MicroPrécis Corp. is a young, innovative company that distinguishes itself by
an extremely rigorous finish. The company specialises in rapidly
manufacturing high-end small and micro parts for the medical, space and
watch making fields (famous Geneva Hallmark). It produces numerous pieces
— such as surgical screws, dental implants, covers, abutments, micro screws
— that require thin and long holes (e.g. 0.30 mm in diameter, 4 mm length),
and many other parts that demand the highest quality of finish and precision
to microns.
FISBA OPTIK AG, St. Gallen
C: Monique Tomaselli
T: +41 71 282 31 31
E: info@fisba.com
W: www.fisba.com
From simple lenses to complex optical components, the solutions created by
FISBA are always perfectly tailored to the specific demands. FISBA develops
and manufactures lenses, laser modules, micro optics and advanced optical
components for industrial applications. Further areas of expertise comprise
metrological applications as well as the development of completely
customised solutions.
Huntsman Advanced Materials GmbH, Basel
C: Benjamin Wiekenberg
T: +41 61 299 11 11
E: advanced_materials@huntsman.com
W: www.huntsman.com/advanced_materials
Huntsman is a leading global supplier of synthetic and formulated polymer
systems for customers requiring high-performance materials which outperform
the properties, functionality and durability of traditional materials. Over 2,300
associates at 13 locations worldwide work to fulfil this promise day by day.
More than 9,000 companies around the world use Huntsman Advanced
Materials technologies in key markets such as adhesives and inks, aerospace,
automotive, coatings, construction, electronics, medical, marine, power
transmission and distribution, sports equipment and wind power generation.
Locatis SA
C: Alain Pilloud
T: +41 32 427 04 40
E: alain.pilloud@locatis.ch
W: www.locatis-electronics.ch
Based in Switzerland, the electronic division of LOCATIS aims to be the partner
of the manufacture of electronic products as the subcontractor. A
comprehensive set of benefits may be offered, clients can have a single
interlocutor. The company can meet the needs so responsive and reliable
including: production teams on the spot, a strong solid experience; production
tools and controls at the cutting edge of current technology; central
purchasing; dual certification ISO 9001/ISO 13485; compliance with delivery;
technical process control that will ensure complete satisfaction. Thanks to its
know-how and that of its partners and suppliers, LOCATIS is able to design
products with the customer. It offers: advice on the choice of electronic
components (analysis of the client’s nomenclature); studying the feasibility of
the PCB and plastic parts; services of a network of developers
hardware/software specialist; design and production of the PCB.
Microcube Sàrl, Crissier
C: Jérôme Orteu
T: +41 21 6358220
E: info@microcube.ch
W: www.microcube.ch
Microcube distributes Alicona InfiniteFocus, a high-resolution 3D Optical
system for Form and Roughness measurement in Switzerland.
MicroVu Swiss, Gland
C: Franck Zollinger
T: +41 22 301 45 47
E: mce@microvueurope.com
W: www.microvu.ch
Microwaterjet AG, Aarwangen
C: Maurer Walter
T: +41 62 9192090
E: info@microwaterjet.ch
W: www.microwaterjet.ch
The company does wicro waterjet cutting.
In association with
MicroVu manufactures video and multisensor measuring machines since 1959.
These non-contact and contact measurement systems use video, touch probe
and laser inputs to perform high-precision 2D and 3D measurements. MicroVu
measurement systems are used for quality assurance and incoming inspection
applications — www.microvu.com/appl.html — to inspect high-precision parts
for micro moulding, and the watch, medical devices, aerospace and
automotive industries.
cmm 3/7 www.micromanu.com 17

Swiss DIRECTORY
Mimotec SA, Sion
C: Adrian Häubi
T: +41 27 329 09 09
W: www.mimotec.ch
Mimotec, a Swiss company, was founded in November 1998. The company is
recognised both in Switzerland and abroad as a leader in the fields of micro
technique and micro mechanics. So far, Mimotec has made a name for itself in
the world of luxury watches and would now also like to put this experience and
knowledge to use in other professional sectors, such as biomedical. The
process used for the manufacture of micro components, as well as mould
inserts for plastic injection, was inspired by Liga technology (lithography,
electroplating, moulding); the difference being that Mimotec uses an ultraviolet
luminous source rather than x-ray.
Nanosurf AG
C: Dr. Björn Pietzak
T: +41 61 9275646
E: info@nanosurf.com
W: www.nanosurf.com
Nanosurf is a leading provider of easy-to-use atomic force microscopes (AFM)
and scanning tunneling microscopes (STM). Its products and services are
trusted by professionals worldwide to help them measure, analyse and
present 3D surface information. Its microscopes excel through their compact
and elegant design, their easy handling and their absolute reliability.
Polydec SA, Biel-Bienne
C: Yolanda Marcote
T: +41 32 344 10 00
E: info@polydec.ch
W: www.polydec.ch
Polydec, founded in 1985, specialises in micro turned parts. The company has
over 40 staff and an annual turnover exceeding CHF 13 million. Polydec also
has a sales office in Chicago, Polydec International. More than 80% of
production is exported, mainly to the US and Germany. Certified ISO 9001,
ISO/TS 16949, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001, the company focuses on the
quality of its products, as well as on the well-being of its employees. Polydec
caters for: automotive — with an annual production exceeding the 250 million
micro-axles used in dashboards, Polydec parts are found in 5 out of 10 cars;
electronics — Polydec manufactures contact probes, connectors and
plungers; timepieces; and medical.
Rofin Baasel Swiss AG, Biel
C: Joachim Vogt
T: +41 32 322 10 10
E: joachim.vogt@rofin-baasel.ch
W: www.rofin-baasel.ch
For over 30 years ROFIN has been building laser sources and turnkey laser
systems to address some of the most challenging material processing
applications in the micro sector. With over 30,000 lasers installed around the
world, ROFIN is a global company with extensive laser applications
experience. Around 1,600 ROFIN employees communicate locally with
customers wherever they are based. The headquarters of the ROFIN Micro
Division is in Starnberg, the heart of Europe. As well as solid state lasers,
ROFIN manufactures CO2 lasers from 20W to 20,000W for processing plastics,
paper and other organic materials. The StarPulse and StarFiber lasers can
achieve fine welds with very low heat input — the laser is ideal for integrating
into production automation for consumer electronics, medical devices,
automotive or aerospace components. .
SCHAEFER-TEC AG, Kirchberg
C: Martin Bossard
T: +41 34 423 70 70
E: ch@schaefer-tec.com
W: www.schaefer-tec.com
The Schaefer group has offices in Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, Poland,
and Romania, and provides scientific instruments in the fields of nano
technology, micro technology and surface inspection all over Europe.
Customers benefit from the wealth of experience offered by Schaefer sales
engineers, as well as from the broad product portfolio, which ensure that
individual needs are identified and met. Instruments such as atomic force
microscopes, optical profilers (interferometer, confocal), tribometers, as well as
x-ray tomography devices and vacuum, gasflow, deposition rate and magnetic
field measuring devices are supplied by Schaefer.
MW Programmation SA, Malleray
C: Patrick Duvanel
T: +41 32 491 65 30
E: pduvanel@mwprog.ch
W: www.mwprog.ch
MW Programmation specialises in CNC programming and data transfer, and
has more than 1,000 customers in the watch, mechanical, medical, swisscutting
and joinery sectors. Products include: alphacam CAD/CAM, including
a mill/turn module, as well as Milling 2-5 simultaneously controlled,
turning/Swiss-cutting 2-18 axis, stone setting, sequential numbering, wire,
laser and 3D engraving; alphacam Partmodeler: CAD module in volumique;
alphacut — simulates NC code on a defined machine.
NUM, Teufen
T: +41 71 3350411
E: sales.ch@num.com
W: www.num.com
NUM CNC solutions provide machine builders with a competitive advantage.
Its market strategy is to help the current and future customers to construct a
better machine and thereby securing them a competitive advantage on the
market. It perceives itself as a CNC High-End Application company and it is
focusing on selected market niches, where it undeniably has something extra
to offer, and it has a proven track record to back up this statement.
Polyservice SA, Lengnau
C: Francis Muller
T: +41 32 653 04 44
E: info@polyservice.ch
W: www.polyservice.ch
A market leader in the field of high-precision mass finishing of small precision
parts, Polyservice offers a customer process engineering service and state-ofthe-art
machines and consumables. For more than 40 years, the company has
been offering customers complete solutions involving all aspects of deburring
and burnishing precision parts in bulk. An especially important step in the
development chain for customers takes place in process analysis and in
Polyservice’s experimental laboratory where it subjects the products to be
finished to detailed analysis. This service is free of charge. Due to the fact that
industrial deburring and burnishing in bulk requires more than just a machine
and consumables, the company also offers solutions for separation and drying
of the parts after treatment, and provides handling accessories.
ROLLOMATIC SA, Le Landeron
C: Damien Wunderlin
T: +41 32 7521700
E: d.wunderlin@rollomatic.ch
W: www.rollomaticsa.com
Rollomatic offers a range of grinding machines dedicated to the manufacturing
of cutting tools, punches and other precision ground parts. Rollomatic
represents the professional approach to designing and manufacturing grinding
centres, ranging from 3-axis CNC tool grinders to highly sophisticated 8-axis
machines. In addition, Rollomatic also builds single purpose machines such
as blank preparation machines, flute & relief grinders, point grinders, shankpreparation
machines and peripheral equipment such as dressing/balancing
units and precision gage systems.
Schläfli Engineering AG, Bueren an der Aare
C: Marlene Spätig
T: +41 32 351 50 70
E: info@schlafli.com
W: www.schlafli.com
In association with
Schläfli Engineering is an independent enterprise specialising in the
development and manufacture of highly precise machines for processing small
parts. These machines are for the handling of hard to very hard materials, like
ruby, sapphire, zirconium, ceramic(s) and tungsten carbide. The machine lineup
consists of: a honing machine for the handling of small cylindrical throughholes,
in the areas of hole dia. 0.04 to 2.0 mm; centreless grinding machines
for the exact centric outside diameter of tubes, nozzles and cases with
diameters from 0.5 to approx. 8 mm; brush polishing machines for surface
polishing and edges processing; and machines to process concave and
convex forms on various parts. These machines are used worldwide for the
handling and checking of ruby and sapphire clocks, as well as industry
bearings, ceramic couplings for the fibre-optics industry, tungsten carbide
guide parts and high-precision tubes.
cmm 3/7 www.micromanu.com 19

Swiss FOCUS
In association with
Micronarc: The Entry Point for Micro and Nano Technologies in Western Switzerland
Micro. Nano. Arc. Three key
concepts condensed into a
single name that today
represents the innovative force of Western
Switzerland: its outstanding competencies
in micro technology, its unparalleled
position in nano technology research, and
its privileged location encompassed by the
twin mountainous arcs of the Jura and the
Alps. Micronarc is a communication
platform devoted to promoting these
advantages and to encouraging seamless
interaction between research facilities,
educational structures and industry.
Developing potential and attracting
creative forces
Micronarc is an initiative of seven cantons
(the states of the Swiss Confederation):
Berne, Fribourg, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Geneva,
Valais and Jura. Nestled between the lakes
and mountains of Western Switzerland,
they share a strategic location and
outstanding competencies in micro and
nano technology. Micronarc’s mission is to
develop and promote the skills, expertise
and potential of the region on the national
and international levels. It also seeks to
integrate all participants in a network for
the exchange of
information and
knowledge. This twoway
approach aims
to attract creative
talent from outside
the region, and to
generate the
framework conditions
that will allow local
innovative forces to
realise their potential.
Micronarc is also a
news portal,
informing the public
about micro and
nano technologies in
Western Switzerland.
Education and
training: a unique
hub of competence
The Micronarc
network represents
an exceptional range
of competencies in
education, R&D and
manufacturing. Its
higher education
institutions include
the Federal Institute
of Technology in
Lausanne (EPFL),
four universities
(Fribourg, Geneva,
Lausanne and Neuchâtel) and the two
universities of applied sciences (UAS) of
Bern (HTI) and Western Switzerland (HES
SO). The UAS offer Bachelor’s and
Master’s degrees in numerous disciplines,
including micro technology.
Research: industry is the driving force
In parallel with their educational function,
EPFL, the universities and the UAS are
involved in cutting-edge research projects,
often working in partnership with industry.
Other institutions provide more specific
inputs. The CSEM (Swiss Centre for
Electronics and Microtechnology Inc.) is a
private R&D company specialised in micro
and nano technology, systems engineering
and IT. The FSRM (Swiss Foundation for
Research in Microtechnology) is a private
foundation for the promotion of micro
technology. It is very active in continuing
education. The new Adolfe Merkle Institute
(AMI) in Fribourg is a dedicated, state-ofthe-art,
nano science research centre.
Encouraging networking, today and for
the future
Micronarc manages and operates the
Internet portal www.micronarc.ch. This
mine of information offers access to all
micro and nano technology participants in
Western Switzerland.
Micronarc
C: Edward Byrne
T: +41 32 7200990
E: info@micronarc.ch
W: www.micronarc.ch
cmm 3/7 www.micromanu.com 21