The "ScanCut - laser cutting in the stamping process" development project
Quicker than ever, smaller than ever, better than ever: these are the features which identify integrated and intelligent mobility. And this has consequences: ever more applications like driver assistance systems, cameras, network connections and media integration in the vehicle continue to demand ever more, ever smaller contacts, plug connector and connector elements which perform ever more quickly and reliably.
The solution is called miniaturisation - increasing the package density of plug connections and thereby achieving significant increases in efficiency. Because of mechanical manufacturing limits this is no longer possible with conventional plug connectors with wire diameters up to 0.13 mm². New technologies are needed.
These new technologies are examined within the framework of the "ScanCut - laser cutting in the stamping process" project supported by the North-Rhine Westphalia government and the EU. Working together with KOSTAL Kontakt Systeme GmbH in this are the Fraunhofer Institute for laser technology, Amphos GmbH and Pulsar Photonics GmbH.
The objective of this joint community project, which started in 2017, is to achieve further miniaturisation meeting the highest quality requirements, using laser cutting technology, based on an ultra-short, pulsed laser beam source. To ensure optimum precision while remaining competitive in terms of technical efficiency a hybrid system is to be developed, consisting of a multi-radiation module and helical optics.
This system is being tested and validated on a production line at KOSTAL Kontakt Systeme GmbH as part of a long-term trial. Following successful completion of the project the technology which has been developed will extend the stamping process in new product developments or improvements.
"ScanCut" is a joint project between Amphos GmbH, KOSTAL Kontakt Systeme GmbH, the Fraunhofer Institute for laser technology and Pulsar Photonics GmbH.
Time period 03/2017 - 02/2020
This project is supported by EU and the North-Rhine Westphalia government.
