By Koji Sugioka The rapid development of the femtosecond laser has revolutionized materials processing due to its unique characteristics of ultrashort pulse width and extremely high peak intensity. In particular, the high peak intensity allows nonlinear interactions such as multiphoton absorption and tunneling ionization to be induced in transparent materials, which provides versatility in terms […]
Digital Photonic Production – The Future of Laser Applications
By Reinhart Poprawe One of the main challenges of modern manufacturing is the dilemma between scale and scope, i.e., the ability to produce high volumes at low prices, yet systematically integrating the increasing demand for individuality in the products. As a consequence, concepts for one piece flow at the cost of mass production are developed. […]
Meet LIA’s New Officers & 2015 Board of Directors
By Paul Hoffmann LIA’s 2015 President Robert Thomas is an essential figure in research and publication throughout the many facets of the laser industry. He initially earned his B.S. degree in physics from Pittsburg State University in 1989, and worked to receive a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Missouri, Columbia, in 1994. His […]
2015 International Year of Light
By Geoff Giordano We in the laser community have been on a well-documented mission for some time now. Using these powerful — some might say miraculous — tools, we have revolutionized manufacturing, medicine, communications and even entertainment. Recognition of our efforts has been steadily growing in this young century as governments around the world mark significant […]
ILSC 2015: Gathering Top Minds in Laser Safety
By Geoff Giordano A record number of sponsors and the return of a special-topic luncheon will highlight the latest installment of LIA’s intensive four-day International Laser Safety Conference (ILSC®) in New Mexico this March. Chaired by Dr. John O’Hagan, head of Public Health, England’s Laser and Optical Radiation Dosimetry Group, ILSC 2015 will be held […]