Next Level Photonics

»RESEARCH TOGETHER«

According to the slogan »Research Together«, the project »Next Level Photonics«, between the Fraunhofer IMS, Fraunhofer ISIT and the highly endowed Kyoto University from Japan, is being established.

© Fraunhofer IMS, Fraunhofer ISIT & Kyoto University

The subject of the »Next Level Photonics« project is the (further) development of novel methods for the generation and detection of light. For the first time, three powerful technologies are combined: Kyoto University's extremely spatially focused, color and temperature stable laser diodes (PCSEL), Fraunhofer ISIT's precise and miniaturized motion stage for reliable laser beam deflection (MEMS-mirror) and Fraunhofer IMS' single photon sensitive photodetectors (CSPAD). They form an ideal symbiosis for use in active, optical distance measurement and are considered drivers for new solutions in compact 3D sensor technology. The researchers' goal is to make any form of optical bundling or transmitting and receiving optics superfluous.

The project partnership is only possible thanks to funding from the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft under the ICON (»International Cooperation and Networking«) program and funding from Kyoto University from the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (CSTI) under the Cross-ministerial SIP (»Strategic Innovation Promotion«) program »Photonics and Quantum Technology for Society 5.0«. These programs are also supported by the National Institute for Quantum Science and Technology (QST). 

We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to Mr. Hideya Miki (Head of the Fraunhofer Representative Office Japan) for initiating the cooperation and bringing all three partners together.