1. Bern University of Applied Sciences
  2. School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL
  3. Research
  4. Research areas
  5. Applied Fiber Technology AFT
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Applied Fiber Technology AFT

We integrate state-of-the-art laser systems into processing machines. For this purpose, we produce fibre optics and fibre-optic systems for beam transport in machines.

Our research group

We test and develop pulsed systems for the micro-processing of metals, ceramics, ultra-hard materials – such as diamonds – and complex layer systems, like those found in new photovoltaic elements. We develop and test highly innovative fibre optics and fibre-optic systems for beam transport in machines.

Range of services

We possess the expertise and equipment to design, manufacture and test cutting-edge fibre optics. We develop both passive fibre optics – for beam guidance – and active fibre optics for pulsed laser systems. The following facilities are available:

  • A drawing tower for fibre optics (operated in cooperation with the Institute of Applied Physics at the University of Bern);
  • Equipment for the handling of fibre optics (splicer, cleaver, taper machine etc.)
  • Equipment to set up test systems
  • Equipment for beam analysis
  • Test machine for the processing of thin-film systems;
  • A fully equipped optical laboratory

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Areas of expertise

  • Development of pulsed systems for the micro-processing of metals, ceramics, ultra-hard materials – such as diamonds – and complex layer systems.
  • Development of innovative micro-structured fibre optics capable of peak performance into the megawatt range.
  • Development of fibre-based beam guidance which facilitates the integration of lasers significantly.

Institute for Applied Laser, Photonics and Surface Technologies ALPS

We deploy our future-oriented key technologies for the development of modern, digitised processes for the manufacturing, modification and analysis of materials.

Infrastructure

Our facilities enable us to launch and carry out projects quickly and easily.

  • Fully equipped optical laboratory with pulsed lasers for testing applications
  • Fibre laboratory with cutting-edge equipment for splitting and splicing modern fibre optics and setting up and testing fibre-optic systems
  • Standard laser beam and material diagnostics for the characterisation of interaction processes

The Applied Fiber Technology Group maintains national and international contacts with universities and industry. 

It cooperates with the Institute of Applied Physics (IAP) at the University of Bern in the development of new light sources and glass fibers. With the IAP, the group operates the "Fibers and Fiber Lasers Competence Center" and has access to a Fiber drawing tower. 

Close contacts also exist with EPF Lausanne, the XLIM Institute of the University of Limoges, the General Physics Institute Moscow and numerous companies.

Contact

Contact us or meet our experts in person at various events. Collaboration produces win-win outcomes for everyone concerned – your company, society and the university.