Real time re-optimisation of optical thin film coating designs during manufacture

The work reported in this paper arose from a Teaching Company Scheme between the University of Plymouth and Omitec Thin Films Ltd. of Plympton, Devon, to improve optical thin films process monitoring, increase product yield and increase manufacturing capability through the use of advanced software control. The paper outlines the company´s background and products. It describes the basic process of manufacturing the thin films and the problems encountered in this process. Methods of overcoming these manufacturing problems are discussed using a modular approach. Finally, future developments of a standardised monitoring system are presented