IMRA America and Jenoptik Laser have entered into a license agreement on a patent family held by IMRA that includes a method for “controlling configuration of laser induced breakdown and ablation.” Jenoptik will use the technology to create advanced micromachined products for ultrafast applications. Researchers at the University of Michigan found that ultrashort pulses are shorter than the time needed for most energy transfer processes within a material. The method, referred to as athermal machining, offers deterministic, ultraprecise materials processing. “This patent has enabled ultrafast lasers to be used in an entirely new class of micromachining that has created new state-of-the-art products such as medical stents, electronic displays and fuel injection nozzles,” said Takashi Omitsu, president of IMRA. For more information, visit: www.imra.com