FemtoPrint, which specialises in the production or printing of 3D microdevices out of glass and other transparent materials, has signed up new partners ahead of EPHJ, one of the most important microtechnology exhibitions in the industry calendar.
FemtoPrint has reached a distribution agreement with Japan Laser Corporation and, separately, a production deal with high-end mechanical watchmaker Ulysse Nardin.
The agreement between FemtoPrint and JLC involves a commercial collaboration which will result in the commercialization of FemtoPrint products and services into the Japanese market.
JLC is an established trading company specialized in laser technologies that offers OEM and branded products in the field of laser sources, material processing systems, metrology instruments and peripherals.
The companies say the agreement is “an important milestone” for the further expansion of FemtoPrint technology in optical, photonic, and life science applications in Japan.
Kyohei Tomita, sales engineer at JLC, says “JLC is very excited to start the collaboration with FemtoPrint and is convinced of the strong success in Japan. FemtoPrint technology will enable unprecedented applications to Japan precision industries.”
Alexander Steimle, business developer at FemtoPrint, says: “We are proud to be listed among the leading brands commercialized by JLC and believe that the collaboration will set fundamental roots for the dissemination of novel 3D microdevices at high precision manufactured with our unique FemtoPrint micromachining platform.”
In the production deal with Ulysse Nardin, FemtoPrint technology played a crucial part in the watchmaker’s production of InnoVision timepiece range, the second version of which was premiered at the Geneva Watch Exhibition earlier this year.
InnoVision2 is said to be “a highly technical watch with unique 3D glass sculptures”.
“When we saw the drawings, we were thrilled about the chance to work on it,” says a spokesperson for FemtoPrint.
“This timepiece is nothing like anything seen before. Every part of this watch boasts great innovation; and FemtoPrint technology contributed to the success of the vision, bringing transparency, unique shapes, precision, less friction, amazing combination of fluidics, mechanics and aesthetics, with a perfect surface quality and the integration of new functionalities.
“The visual effect of this watch looks like nothing ever seen in horology.”
FemtoPrint technology uses a femtosecond laser that changes the properties of glass in the focal point with a sub-micron resolution, according to the company.
