The German polymer optics expert VIAOPTIC and the French coating professionals POLYRISE are pooling their expertise: In a close partnership, the companies are producing high-performance, anti-reflective coated plastic lenses. These will become part of innovative lighting systems for a successful premium lighting system supplier of the automotive industry – and thus contribute to the transformation of mobility. The Digital Mirror Devices (DMD) technology in the headlights enables glare-free high beam, which automatically fades out oncoming vehicles and other road users. Supporting animations projected onto the road surface enhance not only road safety but also driving comfort.
Wetzlar/Pessac. Plastic optics from VIAOPTIC are indispensable for the automotive industry due to their high design freedom, high break resistance, low part weights, low material costs and suitability for economical series production. In order to be integrated into highly complex applications, the components must meet the highest standards. “We are very pleased that a premium lighting system supplier trusts in our high-performance products,” says Bernhard Willnauer, Managing Director of VIAOPTIC GmbH. For the components, the part geometry, compliance with the tightest tolerances, homogeneity and clarity are particularly important – this is the only way to ensure optical function. “Our understanding of plastics and optics guarantees top-level results,” Willnauer adds.
But especially in the field of high-resolution lens systems, the injection-molded optics require additional refinement. Anti-reflective coatings are essential to prevent interference from stray light. Bernhard Willnauer: “With POLYRISE, we have a strong partner at our side who further increases the efficiency of our products.”
The innovative and patented Sol-Gel technology of the company from Pessac, France, takes into account the special features of the plastics and the requirements of the application areas. The dip coating is compatible with any type of transparent PMMA or PC, can be applied to complex 3D geometries and has a high elasticity that allows thermal expansion of the substrate. Its high temperature resistance is particularly noteworthy: unlike classic PVD coatings, it can withstand very high temperatures, the limit being determined by that of the plastic used. Fabien Rougé, CEO of POLYRISE SAS explains. “Our processes are also aimed at the mass market and offer significant cost advantages over conventional anti-reflective coatings.”
The two companies have already been working together for several years on various projects. Winning a premium lighting system supplier as a customer can be considered a great success on their joint path. “Our shared understanding regarding quality and customer orientation is the basis for our trusting cooperation. It generates synergy effects from which our customers benefit greatly,” Rougé is convinced.
About VIAOPTIC
Founded in 2003 in its current form, the company produces customized plastic optical components and systems. It covers the entire product development process, from optical development to design, prototype production, toolmaking, injection molding, optical coating and assembly. The approximately 150 employees manufacture products for well-known customers in the automotive, medical and sensor technology sectors. The company headquarters and production site are located in Wetzlar. www.viaoptic.de.
About POLYRISE
Since 2006, the company has designed and manufactured optical coating for the photonics industry. Its highly experienced and skilled team of engineers in sol-gel technology and application, combined with a high production rate and efficient dip-coating processes, makes POLYRISE’s products the most competitive solution to support mass markets such as automotive, outdoor lighting, and sensors. With its disruptive patented wet antireflective coating, POLYRISE offers a solution where none existed before. www.polyrise.com.