A fruitful collaboration with C2MI on 3D-printed micro-optics.

Optech was pleased to collaborate with C2MI on a project focused on the development of 3D-printed microlenses for optical fiber coupling applications. This collaboration was driven by a shared commitment to exploring new solutions in micro-optics and pushing the boundaries of manufacturing processes for photonic components.

By combining Optech’s expertise in optical and photonic design with C2MI’s advanced capabilities in additive manufacturing and component integration, the project investigated an innovative approach to fabricating microlenses directly integrated onto Fiber Array Units (FAUs). This synergy between design, manufacturing, and characterization provided a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with 3D-printed micro-optics while paving the way for the development of higher-performance photonic solutions tailored to the needs of next-generation technologies.

As part of this project, our team was responsible for the optical design of the microlenses. Ansys Zemax OpticStudio was used for the lens design and tolerance analysis. A tolerance study carried out using Zemax software made it possible to evaluate the robustness of the design against possible variations related to the manufacturing process. This essential step helped optimize the design parameters and ensure a better prediction of the optical performance before the components were manufactured.

The microlenses designed by Optech were then fabricated on Fiber Array Units (FAUs) by C2MI using a Mycronic Vanguard Automation 3D printing process. Once the components were produced, characterization tests were carried out to evaluate their optical performance. Alignment and insertion loss measurements were performed using our ficonTEC AL500 system. Beam profile characterization was carried out using our Gentec-EO Beamage-4M-IR beam profiler. The Gentec-EO Beamage-4M-IR beam profiler was used to analyze the properties of the emerging beams and compare the experimental results with the performance predicted during the design phase.

This project validated the compatibility between the optical design methods developed by Optech and C2MI’s 3D printing manufacturing processes. It also improved our understanding of how design parameters influence coupling performance and identified opportunities for optimization in future developments.

Beyond the technical results, this collaboration demonstrates the value of partnerships in technological innovation. By combining Optech’s expertise in optical and photonic design with C2MI’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, we are helping develop innovative photonic solutions for the technologies of tomorrow.