Prof. Dr. Thomas Arnold, Leibniz IOM

”Among the things we investigate at the IOM are the mechanisms of interaction involving chemically reactive atmospheric pressure plasma jets. From this work come deterministic processing technologies for ultra-precision figuring of surfaces, right through to the start of viable manufacturing chains. The main field of application of the technologies is the production of complex surface shapes such as aspheres and free-form surfaces for ultra-precision optics, which have to be produced with manufacturing tolerances of a few nanometres. In order to meet these requirements, beam-based processing tools such as plasma jet sources and their mechanisms of action are being experimentally researched and further developed.

One of our projects on new applications, which is funded by the AiF and the FEI (research organisations for SMEs and the food industry, respectively) involves designing and making a demonstrator for a three-axis positioning system enabling a plasma head to be moved along prescribed paths using a particular tool. IMMS has supported us throughout the design of the device, including work on the mechanical hardware and on the data-processing hard- and software, the development, construction and testing of the prototype. They have brought it into operation on our premises.

The IMMS staff incorporated our requirements into the design by constantly checking with us. They researched, selected and implemented the most cost-efficient approach and the use of common, commercially available components.

We are extremely pleased with the resulting demonstration device. Besides proven competence in drive design and experience of product development in the service of research institutes, IMMS also brought to the task a highly professional, purposeful and constructive approach. We do thank the Institute for this outstanding collaboration and shall definitely return to make further use of the Institute’s expertise in future projects.“