Surface texturing

Using micro- and nanostructures, we modify the properties of polymer surfaces without changing their composition.

For this purpose, we develop tools and processes for high fidelity replication of functional surface structures:

Design and layout of functional surface topographies (biomimetics, calculations, simulation).
Fabrication of master structures by ultra-short pulse laser micromachining or lithography
Tool design and master integration
Component design and process simulation
Industrial replication technologies: injection (compression) molding, hot embossing, UV imprinting
Validation of functional samples

Project examples

Free-form micro-optics for modern lighting applications

CSEM and FHNW are working together on innovative design algorithms and manufactur-ing technologies to enable potential future applications in lighting ...

to Free-form micro-optics for modern lighting applications

Room lighting using inverted truncated cones

By connecting two plastic components, we have developed a light decoupling element that was previously thought unfeasible to manufacture.

to Room lighting using inverted truncated cones

Micro-structures for security

Researchers from the University of Applied Sciences FHNW, the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI and Gemalto AG are developing a new manufacturing process for ...

to Micro-structures for security

Production of a violin support with functional surfaces

Plastics experts at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland developed an injection-moulding production process for a violin ...

to Production of a violin support with functional surfaces