The Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics has made a series of advances in cellular laser transient response, scattering imaging of deep tissue, and imaging of transparent samples.
A team led by Researcher Chang Yulei at the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics published a paper in Advanced Materials proposing Yb3+ energy-relay-based hierarchical lanthanide nanostructures that tune ion luminescence lifetimes across 1060-2050 nm. In a Tm3+ system, for example, the lifetime can be continuously tuned from 654 us to 11918 us while the emission intensity at 1850 nm remains essentially unchanged. The team built its own time-gated imaging system based on an MCT short-wave infrared detector, simultaneously distinguishing six targets in mice with inter-channel crosstalk below 10%.
Ruier Mingkang (Zhejiang) Medical Technology Co., Ltd. has launched the DF600 series, China's first fully domestic laser fundus camera. Using a laser as its sole light source combined with confocal pinhole technology, the device enables layered imaging of the fundus. Its minimum imaging field reaches 130 degrees, while intelligent stitching covers up to 260 degrees. It requires only a 2 mm pupil without dilation, captures images in 0.1 seconds, and features built-in proprietary AI algorithms that identify the optic disc, blood vessels, macula, and hemorrhage spots without an internet connection. The DF600 has been deployed in endocrinology, health screening, emergency care, and other settings.
Focuslight, Synopsys, AMS Technologies and Oxford Instruments announced or completed acquisitions in early 2024, covering micro- and nano-optics, simulation software, laser systems and scientific cameras. Focuslight completed the acquisition of 100% of the equity in SMO for EUR 75.5405 million, while Synopsys plans to acquire Ansys for $35 billion, a deal still subject to shareholder and regulatory approval. AMS Technologies acquired neoLASE, and Oxford Instruments acquired First Light Imaging.
Why we recommend it: The four deals respectively add device manufacturing, simulation software, laser system and scientific imaging capabilities, useful for comparing different paths optics companies take to expand through acquisitions.
A spatial light modulator (SLM) uses liquid crystal materials driven electrically to change the amplitude, phase or polarization state of light waves, modulating the spatial distribution of a beam. Amplitude SLMs use TN and VA modes, phase SLMs use ECB mode, and reflective optical paths generally require an oblique incidence angle of less than 5°. The device has been used in 3D printing and lithography, super-resolution microscopy, holographic imaging and atmospheric turbulence simulation.