The Institute of Applied Physics (IAP) at the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena in Jena, Germany conducts basic and applied research in the fields of optical design; micro-, nano- and quantum optics; and fiber and waveguide optics, as well as ultrafast optics. The Abbe Center of Photonics (ACP), also at U Jena, is a leading European center for research and education in optics and photonics, as well as in the development and transfer of optical technologies.

These two schools conducted recent experiments on bulk laser processing—the cutting, drilling, engraving, or other structural modification of dense material using high-powered, high-frequency pulse duration "ultrafast" lasers, which have pulse durations measured in the picosecond (10-12) to femtosecond (10-15) ranges. The extreme precision required for this activity entails designing an optical system whose lens can offset the spherical aberrations caused by certain processing elements.

Read the full story to learn the 4-step process U Jena applied in OpticStudio for determining offset requirements for optical designs in bulk laser processing scenarios. And to learn more about OpticStudio, the industry standard for optical design software, try it for free!