SCOTTISH scientists have notched up a global first with a high-precision portable laser which is the size of a pack of playing cards.
The device was created by the Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics in Glasgow for, and in collaboration with, Optocap, an optoelectronics design and manufacturing company based in Livingston.
Optocap is devising its own product line and approached Fraunhofer’s team of experts to use their expertise in creating lasers for commercial use.
The resulting innovation is 10 times cheaper than any alternatives and can be used in a range of quantum technologies, such as clocks and sensors. Precision clocks will help enable the next generation of GPS that could assist autonomous navigation systems and benefit the telecommunications sector, while precision sensors can improve navigation in an aircraft, for example, without relying on GPS and during poor visibility.
Now, following a year of prototype development and testing by the Fraunhofer Centre, Optocap is manufacturing and selling the compact product.
Its development was supported by Innovate UK’s Quantum Technologies initiative, which has seen further government investment of £153 million, with an additional £205m from industry, to “unlock the potential of quantum technologies”.
Optocap chief executive, Stephen Duffy, said: “We worked with Fraunhofer’s Centre for Applied Photonics because they excel in applying world-class laser design knowledge and research to real life problems.
“Their know-how, combined with our sophisticated precision manufacturing expertise and market vision, has produced a unique product with a wide range of important applications.”
Dr Loyd McKnight, from Fraunhofer’s Centre for Applied Photonics, added: “The purpose of Fraunhofer, a network of international research centres, is to use science to generate technologies for economic and societal gain.
“This new laser is a great example of our mission and it’s very satisfying to see it now available in the rapidly developing quantum technology market.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel