K. Sleiman
F. Kranert
A. Günther
K. Rettschlag
M. Hinkelmann
P. Jäschke
J. Neumann
D. Kracht
W. Kowalsky
B. Roth
L. Overmeyer
S. Kaierle

Towards Integrated Optical Systems with Glass-based Additive Manufacturing by Laser Glass Deposition

Proc. Lasers in Manufacturing (LiM)
2023
Type: Zeitschriftenaufsatz (reviewed)
Abstract
Laser Glass Deposition as an additive manufacturing method is a promising alternative to conventional manufacturing processes for individualized optical components. This process uses a CO2 laser as a heat source to melt fused silica filaments for additive manufacturing. By adapting the process strategy, optical components can be produced, such as waveguides or beam shaping lenses. In this paper, on-chip production of additively manufactured optical waveguides and lenses is demonstrated, paving the way for sophisticated glass-based photonic integration. For this purpose, investigations on the manufacturing of the components under variation of laser power, filament feed rate and line spacing are presented. The focus is to preserve the optical properties of waveguides and lenses and at the same time exploit design flexibility in an automated production environment. The printing of the lenses through fusion of several layers must result in a homogeneous topography. The functionality of the printed components is verified by optical and geometric characterization.