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OPeraTIC · Project

High-Precision Large Scale Laser Surface Treatment Platform for Industrial Manufacturing

manufacturingTestedTRL 5

Imagine using a super-precise laser like a tiny, invisible chisel to carve patterns or clean surfaces. Usually, this only works for small, flat pieces, but this project puts that laser on a smart robotic arm. It's like giving a high-tech artist a giant canvas and a brain to ensure every cut is perfect on large, curved parts.

By the numbers
10 micron
resolution in 3D envelops
1 cubic meter
minimum working volume
65%
industry ratio in consortium
The business problem

What needed solving

Current ultrafast laser processing is limited to small, flat parts, forcing companies to use harmful chemicals or energy-heavy processes for large 3D components.

The solution

What was built

A modular manufacturing platform combining a high-precision robotic manipulator, low-dispersion optical fibers, and an AI-driven control system for large-scale laser microstructuring.

Audience

Who needs this

Automotive tooling manufacturersAerospace component producersHigh-end lighting manufacturersWhite goods appliance brands
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Aerospace
enterprise
Target: Aircraft component manufacturer

If you are an aircraft component manufacturer dealing with complex 3D parts that require chemical etching—this project developed a robotic laser platform that provides clean, precise surface treatment. It replaces harmful acid processes with a sustainable laser alternative.

Automotive
mid-size
Target: Industrial tooling provider

If you are an industrial tooling provider dealing with the need for high-precision microstructuring on large tools—this project developed an AI-driven system that achieves 10 micron resolution. This ensures first-time-right production and reduces setup time.

Home Appliances
enterprise
Target: White goods manufacturer

If you are a white goods manufacturer dealing with energy-intensive surface coatings—this project developed a modular laser platform that substitutes chemical processing. It allows for efficient surface functionalization of large-scale appliance parts.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or price of the system?

Based on available project data, the specific commercial price of the platform is not listed, though the project received an EU contribution of EUR 6,113,210 for development.

Can this be used for industrial-scale production?

Yes, the system is designed for large 3D parts with a working volume of over a cubic meter and is built to be RAMI4.0 compatible for industrial production lines.

How is the IP and licensing handled?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not provided, but the project involves 11 industry partners and 8 SMEs focused on boosting EU industry adoption.

How does this integrate with existing factory software?

The platform uses Automation-ML and OPC-UA standards to ensure seamless bidirectional communication between the physical machine and its digital representation.

What is the timeline for deployment?

The project period runs from 2022-10-01 to 2026-12-31, indicating that full validation and results exploitation occur toward the end of 2026.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily weighted toward commercial application, with an industry ratio of 65%. It consists of 17 partners across 8 countries, including 8 SMEs and 11 industry players. This structure, led by a research association and supported by 3 universities, suggests a strong focus on moving the technology from the lab to the factory floor.

How to reach the team

Contact ASOCIACION DE INVESTIGACION METALURGICA DEL NOROESTE

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the OPeraTIC consortium for early adoption opportunities.

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