Photonics Systems Group
Delivering Bespoke Laser-Based Production Solutions

Manufacturers in the semiconductors, electronics and photovoltaics industries have long searched for customised laser-based equipment for their wafer fabrication and high throughput production needs. They find their ultimate solution in Photonics Systems Group, where precision meets innovation.

The industrial machinery manufacturer develops, produces and sells high-volume, adaptive and cost-effective laser-based production solutions. The firm holds the combined power of three merged companies—InnoLas Solutions, specialising in drilling and cutting applications; L-TRIS Instruments, excelling in trimming applications and PROAUT Technologies, renowned for image processing and automation.

Photonics Systems Group’s focus is not on creating distinct, custom-built machines for individual customers or one-off projects. Instead, it employs standardised, precise platforms optimised for mass production. Using these platforms, it develops production processes in collaboration with customers to suit their specific laser-based fabrication and manufacturing applications. It refines these processes in its application lab to produce automated machines, which are then replicated for deployment across multiple client facilities.

“We adapt our machines to the production needs of customers whose processes require high throughput laser-based applications,” says Dr. Lutz Aschke, CEO.

In the typical course of a project, clients engage Photonics Systems Group early in the conceptual stages while considering new laser-based processes. These processes can span the entire value chain, ranging from initial wafer treatments in early production phases to more intricate applications such as special doping processes, heat treatments, drilling holes and cutting substrates.

Seamlessly integrating its solutions into fabrication facilities is the company’s priority. It swiftly transitions from lab-based experimentation to pilot production and later to high-volume manufacturing, recognising the need for faster industrialisation.

The R&D department of one of Photonics Systems Group’s customers in the semiconductor industry greatly benefitted from its adaptable and customised approach. The department identified a significant breakthrough in the laser-based process for silicon carbide wafers. Having a strong intellectual property position and recognising its potential to make a high impact in the industry, the customer sought a reliable and skilled partner to industrialise the process. Becoming their ideal partner, the team developed a high-throughput machine with full automation capabilities suitable for high-volume manufacturing. It became a game changer in the silicon carbide high-power electronics manufacturing.

Adding to Photonics Systems Group’s strength is the merger of the three industry leaders. InnoLas Solutions—known for its pioneering work in high-throughput laser machining, particularly in the electronics and photovoltaics industry—brings invaluable knowledge to the group. The incorporation of L-TRIS Instruments enhances the group's proficiency in trimming applications on wafers and other components like semiconductor devices on ceramics. This might involve treating coatings or even cutting tiny fuses on the product until achieving the desired specifications. PROAUT Technologies bolsters Photonics Systems Group’s capabilities in image processing and automation to analyse and optimise manufacturing processes, ensuring precision and efficiency.

This combination of histories and specialised knowledge from these three entities allows Photonics to offer a unified approach to industrial machinery and laser-based technologies.

Identifying the critical need for uninterrupted operations, the company provides service and support for its machines deployed in client facilities. Its service personnel are strategically located in close proximity to these locations, particularly in key regions such as Asia and the U.S., to ensure prompt and efficient support.

Photonics Systems Group also offers spare part handling as an integral service, aware of its importance in minimising downtime. Its service contracts are tailored to suit specific business models and customer preferences, with the flexibility to issue tickets for individual service needs as required.

Drawing from varied technological competencies and their expertise in the niche, Photonics Systems Group remains a trusted ally of companies seeking affordable and efficient laser-based system and process solutions in the photovoltaics, electronics and semiconductor industries worldwide.