3D-Micromac & Schott to develop manufacturing solutions for AR optics

3D-Micromac has partnered with glass manufacturer Schott to improve the processing performance of its RealView high refractive index wafers, used in the manufacture of waveguides for next-generation augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) headsets.

According to Matthias Jotz, Head of Product Management for AR at Schott, "High refractive index glass is a key component for achieving optimum field of view and first-class image quality for AR headsets, providing the ultimate user experience. To scale up manufacturing on our patented Schott RealView high refractive index glass products, it is critical that we partner with the right equipment suppliers that can support our manufacturing goals with enabling process solutions. Schott has worked with 3D-Micromac over many years, and their expertise in laser micromachining make them an ideal partner for developing a dedicated laser cutting technology for our augmented reality products."

Uwe Wagner, CEO of 3D-Micromac, added: "3D-Micromac has been offering innovative laser machining solutions for the AR device market for several years, and this strategic partnership with Schott, one of the foremost leaders in specialty glass, will further position us as a leading solutions provider for this high-growth-potential market. We believe that Schott’s strong know-how and expertise in glass processing and material science, coupled with our leadership in laser micromachining, will enable us to develop new process solutions that can improve the bending strength of high refractive index glass to optimise yields while reducing production costs."

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