MAOT Brochure - Erlangen Graduate School in Advanced Optical ...

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OPTICAL MATERIAL
PROCESSING
Light as a tool has revolutionized industrial manufacturing.
Within the last decade the laser in particular has
changed automotive construction, micro- and nanotechnology.
Now a standard tool, the laser has replaced almost all traditional
manufacturing methods, such as like spot welding. The rapid
progress seen in computer technology has only been possible
due to modern optical technologies.
The 'Optical Material Processing' topic will provide in depth
knowledge of laser-material interaction and the system technology
involved. This is crucial to the realization of future developments
in the field of optical material processing, which pushes
the boundaries of the physically possible. The goal is to make
the connections between the physical fundamentals of beam
propagation and interaction of light wave and material, the relevant
material science aspects and also implications for manufacturing
technology in system technology and applications. The
increasing demands for machining quality, for example, make
greater the need for improved process monitoring and control.
Whilst lectures cover the basics of laser-material interaction,
there will also be a practical seminar in which groups of students
directly investigate an application of laser manufacturing technology,
such as laser cutting or welding in the machine shop.
Lectures in this topic area also cover important aspects of system
technology including beam generation, laser types, beam
guidance, laser safety and the clamping of the work piece. An insight
into the world of nanotechnology is also given. In additon to
experiments, simulation plays an important role in acquiring in
depth knowledge of processes and process layout. Since simulation
is now essentially a prerequisite of many processes, such
as, for example, lithographic manufacturing methods using electronic
nanostructures, this subject will be given particular attention.
The students will acquire a range of skills to enable them to
become competent partners for industry and to be a part of
solutions for current scientific challenges, such as the welding of
zinc-coated steel sheets or sub-wavelength structuring using
ultra-short pulsed lasers.
We work in close cooperation with the Bavarian Laser Centre
(BLZ), situated just 100 meters away from the MAOT building to
provide students with extensive practical experience. This link
between fundamental research and industrial application illustrates
the particular value of the MAOT, not only as an academic
education but also as a qualification for a successful career in
science.
www.aot.uni-erlangen.de
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