Growth Board has granted Mid Sweden University funds to develop innovations in fiber optics and laser technologies for industrial applications in a new project that extends to 2014.CHAR(13) + CHAR(10)- By combining fiber optics with laser technology you can for an example cut thinner and finer cuts with more precision in steel, metal and plastics, says Magnus Engholm, researcher at Mid Sweden University and research center Sensible Things That Communicate, STC.

The project aims to strengthen and expand our knowledge in fiber optics and laser technology in the region. It will strengthen competitiveness and contribute to increased growth.

- Laser technology is used in an increasing number of industrial contexts. This project allows us to develop new laser technologies that combine laser technology with fiber optics in order to benefit from the best that the two technologies provide. We will look at how we can develop and customize new lasers based on the needs of businesses in the region, says Magnus Engholm.

Special activities

The project will implement various activities to contribute to greater regional skills, including showing the opportunities that technology can provide the business community in health care, wood, metal and processing industries. Special activities for young people and particularly against young women will be conducted to get more of them into the region's technical educations and the profession.

The contribution from the Growth Board is in just under two million. Another two million is being invested by Mid Sweden University, the County Board, Fiber Optic Valley, Region Gävleborg and participating companies from the industry. The project runs until July 2014.

Facts
Sensible Things That Communicate, STC, is a research center at Mid Sweden University. STC is developing sensor-based systems and services in the areas of industrial IT, mobile services and environmental monitoring.