Ocean Thin Films News - www.oceanthinfilms.com

Optical Filter Shop offers non-standard filter sizes to customer specs
Largo, Florida (May 16, 2012) – Ocean Thin Films has opened a new web storefront at www.opticalfiltershop.com that allows shoppers to custom configure optical filters.

The Optical Filter Shop stocks a variety of band pass filters, color filters, UV – IR filters and ITO

On the site, customers browse a wide selection of optical filters and configure the size of the filters online before checkout. Selecting a round or rectangular filter and then entering desired dimensions generates an instant quotation. Filters are then built to spec and typically ship in less than 48 hours. The Optical Filter Shop stocks a variety of band pass filters, color filters, UV – IR filters and ITO, all of which can be selected by the shopper. This is an ideal path for researchers and development engineers who need to quickly test out a concept with a non-standard filter size.

The Optical Filter Shop also carries a range of components including fused silica optical flats, Zerodur® optical flats, NIST traceable reflectance standards and shear plate collimation testers. Ocean Thin Films stocks thousands of optical filters and will regularly expand the selection of filters available from the storefront.

The offerings on the Optical Filter Shop complement Ocean Thin Films’ extensive precision optical filter and device manufacturing services. The company will continue to produce precision optical filters and devices to customer defined specifications, including patented micro-patterned designs with multiple filters on a single substrate.

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SpectroCam from Ocean Thin Film is first fully configurable MSI camera
Largo, Florida (February 27, 2012) – The SpectroCam™ Multispectral Imaging (MSI) Camera from Ocean Thin Films (OTF) is now available with powerful analysis software that allows the user to perform dozens of image processing functions and view the results on a live action image output. Applications include water quality measurements, product screening, machine vision, medical imaging, surveillance and authentication.

SpectroCam is the world’s first fully configurable MSI camera. Its wideband imaging sensor is responsive from the visible through near infrared spectrum. Precision filters and imaging optics can be customized for a variety of applications with image speeds of up to 30 fps at full resolution. Images from the eight different filters can be acquired and saved at a rate of three full image stacks per second. The optical filters are easily changed in the field and can be constructed to end users’ desired specifications including narrow bandpasses, wide bandpasses and edge filters. By selecting discrete filters in and around spectral areas with the most significant differences, SpectroCam creates images that show vivid contrast not detectable with the human eye.

The new SpectroCam analysis software has a simple, intuitive, graphical interface that allows users to quickly perform a host of image processing and analysis functions. Results can be viewed as live image output or saved to a variety of image file formats. The software processing is a powerful tool for fully extracting MSI information and can even create colorized NIR images. In addition, the analysis portion of the software provides live, quantitative information regarding image intensity as a function of spectral wavelength for a user defined image area or image cross section.

The standard F-Mount lens configuration accommodates a range of lens choices, focal lengths and fields of view. The SpectroCam can also be easily mounted to a variety of imaging equipment including microscopes and endoscopes. The new image processing software allows users to perform dozens of calculations, manipulations and measurements of live images to further enhance the MSI results.

SpectroCam makes multispectral imaging accessible to everybody from university researchers to high volume OEM equipment makers. The interchangeable optical filters and continuously rotating filter wheel overcome many of the shortcomings that prismatic and tuneable filter MSI systems face. With interchangeable filters, users can try many filter options to narrow in on the best contrast, greatly reducing development time and allowing users to bring products to market faster.

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Fewer process steps and less substrate damage than traditional etch methods
Golden, Colorado – (August 30, 2011) Ocean Thin Films now offers its patented PixelTec™ patterned optical coating technology applied to Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) thin films. This pioneering lithographic patterning of optical coatings produces sharp features while maintaining the high quality performance of sputtered ITO coatings, ideal for precision electro-optic devices requiring optically transparent films that are electrically conductive.

OTF’s PixelTec can pattern ITO thin films with sharp, micron-scale features.

PixelTec microlithography enables micron-scale patterning of ITO and Index Matched ITO (IMITO) without the downsides of traditional etching or ablation processes. The ITO can be patterned with no damage to the substrate and other coatings. The process works well with small structures to ensure electrical integrity on the smallest of line widths.

Benefits include:

• Electrically conductive and optically transparent thin films
• Environmentally durable
• Clean / sharp micron level patterning
• No etching or ablation damage
• ITO pattern accuracy with precision alignment to existing features
• Multiple ITO patterns can be applied to the same substrate
• ITO patterns can be applied in conjunction with other optical filters
• Solderable busbars can be patterned with the ITO for convenient electrical connections

Ocean Thin Films ITO yields superior optical transmission versus electrical resistance and provides optimum performance in a variety of applications including EMI/RFI shielded windows, touch panels, and activation electrodes.

To find out more about PixelTec capabilities and ITO/IMITO patterned optical coatings, please visit http://oceanthinfilms.com/products/Patterned_ITO.html, or email info@ocenanthinfilms.com.

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Ocean Thin Films’ SpectroCam is first fully configurable MSI camera
Largo, Florida (July 28, 2011) – The SpectroCam™ Multispectral Imaging (MSI) Camera is now available from Ocean Thin Films (OTF) in a new development platform that combines a scientific-grade CCD array with a precision rotating optical filter wheel to create the world’s first fully configurable MSI camera. Applications include water quality measurements, product screening, machine vision, medical imaging, surveillance and authentication.

Ocean Thin Films SpectroCam, the first fully configurable multi spectral imaging camera.

SpectroCam complements single-point spectroscopy by adding another dimension to spectral measurements. With a single-point spectrometer, users can analyze spectral differences from sample to sample and then, by selecting discrete filters in and around spectral areas with the most significant differences, use SpectroCam to create an image that shows vivid contrast between the samples. 

At the heart of the SpectroCam is a wideband CCD that is responsive from the visible through near infrared spectrum. The system’s precision filter wheel and optics can be customized for a variety of applications. Image speed is 20 fps at full resolution and the standard F-Mount configuration accommodates a range of lens choices, focal lengths and fields of view. Each system includes a lens, eight standard interchangeable filters and software.

OTF collaborated with miniature spectroscopy leader Ocean Optics to create this suite of tools, making multispectral imaging accessible to everybody from university researchers to high volume OEM equipment makers. The interchangeable optical filters and continuously rotating filter wheel overcome many of the shortcomings that prismatic MSI systems face. With interchangeable filters, users can try many filter options to narrow in on the best contrast, greatly reducing development time and allowing users to bring products to market faster.

The SpectroCam platform is easily integrated into a variety of OEM systems and can be modified to meet specific mechanical and environmental needs. To learn more about SpectroCam please visit http://www.oceanthinfilms.com/products/spectral-imaging.html.

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Facility and equipment upgrades

Largo, Florida (June 22, 2011) – To grow its exclusive PixelTec™ patterned optical coating technology, Ocean Thin Films has expanded its Golden, Colorado facility. The pioneer in lithographic patterning of optical coatings, with more than 2 million precision patterned optics delivered, Ocean Thin Films continues to advance its patented process by adding a new clean room and specialty equipment. 

Ocean Thin Film’s Golden Colo. facility has been upgraded to deliver a wider range of custom patterned coatings.

PixelTec optical coatings are increasingly used for purpose-specific performance in a multitude of medical, defense, and industrial applications, enabling more compact, robust, and cost-effective devices. The Golden, Colo. expansion includes another dedicated, class 1000 semiconductor-grade clean room outfitted with advanced patterning and alignment equipment, and class 100 work areas.  The ITAR Registered and ISO 9001:2008 certified facility is now delivering a wider range of complex custom patterned coatings.

PixelTec technology enables micron-scale patterning of multiple thin film optical coatings on a single substrate including:

• Precision patterning of intricate features, shapes, and sizes with sub-pixel alignment accuracy.
• Dielectric, metallic, and transparent conductive (ITO/IMITO) coatings  engineered for custom spectral properties.
• Multi-filter arrays on monolithic substrates, scalable to high volume production.

“Multispectral imaging and sensing is an exciting example where clients are leveraging the benefits of PixelTec patterned dichroic coatings – configuring real-time custom imagers and sensors for everything from enhanced surveillance to non-invasive detection of cancer and disease,” explains Randel Mercer, Ocean Thin Film’s Vice President of Business Development. 

“Our innovative PixelTec patterning expertise also supports precision reticles, variable filters, EMI/RFI shielding, and other custom optics. This expansion is the latest in our continued investment to ensure customers receive the best-in-class patterning capability coupled with high quality optical coatings.”

To find out more about PixelTec patterned optical coatings, please visit www.oceanthinfilms.com/PixelTec.html

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Largo, Florida (February 28, 2011) – For real-time imaging of organic and inorganic chemicals, Ocean Thin Films’ (OTF) new SpectroCam™ provides a high-quality platform that simplifies the design process for researchers and engineers, reducing time-to-market.

Ocean Thin Films’ new SpectroCam™

SpectroCam utilizes a single wideband CCD, capable of measurements covering the spectrum from UV through Near Infrared (NIR) wavelengths. Using a discrete set of application-specific wavelengths, the SpectroCam creates high-resolution images. This targeted spectral approach produces visual data that can be customized for a variety of applications in military, agricultural, medical and industrial markets.

OTF’s SpectroCam is available in a Development Kit that includes a set of filters covering the most commonly used wavelengths, for R&D teams needing a quick turnkey solution in proof-of-concept studies. Filters and sensors can also be customized to conform to specific needs and the cameras are easily re-configured for OEM applications. A proprietary design enables a quick delivery time, while providing a system that suits specific application needs. The SpectroCam offers a cost-effective and versatile solution for any multispectral imaging and sensing project.

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Largo, Florida (December 1, 2010) – Bhushan Dhakras has been appointed as Business Development Manager for the Ocean Thin Films (OTF) range of products in India. He will provide a regional approach to the sales and service of the company’s custom thin film optical product design and engineering expertise in the rapidly expanding Indian market.

Bhushan Dhakras

In this role, Bhushan will work with the OTF team of optical engineers and thin film scientists to support the company’s customers in the region and drive expansion of new applications.

“Adding a technical resource in India will bring us closer to existing customers and help drive Ocean Thin Films’ strategic objectives in this important market,” said Randel Mercer, Vice President of Business Development for Ocean Thin Films.

Originally from Mumbai India, Bhushan holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Mumbai University. He has a strong background in the manufacturing and technical sales of products used in the optics, electrical and automotive industries and will be a valued member of the OTF team and an important support resource for the company’s Indian customers. Bhushan will operate from Halma India’s Mumbai office and can be reached at Tel: 022 6708 0400; Email: bhushan.dhakras@oceanthinfilms.com.

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John Dougherty appointed Business Unit Manager
Largo, Florida (August 27, 2010) – Ocean Thin Films (OTF), a leader in the field of multispectral imaging and optical sensing, has expanded its Spectral Imaging and Sensing Division with new position appointments. 

OTF Multispectral Imaging Camera

John Dougherty has been named Business Unit Manager, directing sales, research and product development activities for the line of optical sensors, spectrometers and multi-spectral cameras.  A part of the OTF team since 2007, Dougherty has over 10 years of laser and photonics research and product development experience, earning an MBA at The University of South Florida and a Chemical Engineering degree at Carnegie Mellon Institute of Technology.

Dave Fish has been appointed Senior Engineer for the division, focusing on adapting its unique optical sensor technology for a wide range of applications including Biophotonics, Defense, Process Control and Scientific Research. Fish has more than 30 years of experience in high-end optical systems and opto-electronic instrumentation. He earned an Electrical engineering degree from San Diego State University.

“This division complements and expands what we offer today,” said Phil Buchsbaum, OTF President, “it allows us to present solutions for our customers in new and existing markets in research and industry, and enhances our services to OEM customers across a wide range of application needs. We’re confident our customers will be well served by the focus of our team and their expertise.”

Randel Mercer, Vice President of Business Development for OTF said, “This is an exciting time for our Spectral Imaging and Sensing business as we make significant investments in facilities and capital equipment to better service our existing customers and leverage our unique combination of skills in micro-lithography, specialty optical filters and opto-electronic devices.”

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Largo, Florida (August 25, 2010) – Ocean Thin Films (OTF) has appointed Jerry Qu to head its Shanghai, China office. As Business Development Manager for China, Singapore and Hong Kong, Qu will provide a regional approach to the sales and service of the company’s custom thin film optical product design and engineering expertise in the rapidly expanding Asian market.

Jerry Qu, Business Development Manager, Ocean Thin Films China

In this new role, Qu will work with the OTF team of thin film scientists and optical engineers, supporting the company’s customers in the region and seeking out new applications.

“With an experienced technical regional team in place, we will be better positioned to bring Ocean Thin Films’ specialized capabilities to customers throughout Asia,” said Randel Mercer, Vice President of Business Development for OTF.

Originally from the Hei Long Jiang Province of China, Qu holds a scientific degree from the Harbin Institute in Technology and a business degree from the Harbin Economic Institute. He has a strong background in the production and sales of specialty optics and optical coatings. As a valued member of the OTF team, he will be a great resource for our regional customers.

Ocean Thin Films designs and produces precision optical coatings, components and assemblies that enable a wide variety of products and custom applications. Leveraging comprehensive know-how in thin film coating development, our team provides expert design assistance for collaborative custom-engineered solutions, from rapid prototyping through high-volume contract manufacturing.

Ocean Thin Films is a subsidiary of Halma p.l.c., an international market leader in safety, health and sensor technology. Halma is a global company traded on the London Stock Exchange with manufacturing operations in 22 countries and sales growth of 59% in China during FY2010.

Ocean Thin Films Shanghai is located at Rm. 1801, Shenggao International Building, 137 Xianxia Road, Shanghai, PRC 200051, China; +86 13911810341.

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$150m earmarked for acquisitions
Cincinnati, OH (June 22, 2010) – Halma p.l.c., the leading global safety, health and sensor technology group, has announced record results with profits up 9% to $125m and revenue rising by 1% to $665m.  The UK-based group, which includes photonics companies Ocean Optics, Ocean Thin Films, Labsphere, and Fiberguide, has posted strong financials to raise shareholder dividends by 7%, the thirty-first consecutive year of increases.  Halma’s 11 US subsidiaries generate about 30% of its revenue.  The company plans to augment its organic growth efforts through acquisition of complementary technology companies, as it has done for many years.

Halma’s subsidiaries operate in three main market sectors: Health and Analysis (which includes Halma’s photonics companies), Infrastructure Sensors, and Industrial Safety, creating shareholder value with consistent organic growth and sound acquisitions. Halma companies operate as independent entities under the day-to-day direction of their local management, while reaping the capital and network benefits of a larger multi-national parent.

The company is seeking successful and profitable companies that are closely allied to any of its current market sectors although photonics is a particular focus.  It has $150m earmarked for acquisitions.

Halma’s photonics companies are established brands with market-leading technologies and products, which range from spectrometers to complementary technologies such as chemical sensors, analytical instrumentation, optical fibers, thin films and optics. The scope of applications is vast, from cancer detection to specialized architectural and theater lighting filters.

“We are proud of the success our companies have attained and really excited about the continuing opportunities within the photonics industries,” explains Adam Meyers, Divisional Chief Executive of Halma’s Health Optics & Photonics Division.  “Halma is a terrific home for a growing company whose management desires a broader set of partners to collaborate with, readily available capital, and support to help drive their people, products and technologies to reach their fullest potential.”

To present potential acquisitions opportunities, please contact Adam Meyers, Divisional Chief Executive, (adam.meyers@halma.com), Tel: +1 973 263 9962.

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