The Innovation domain of Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics encompasses (key) technologies that focus on generating, transmitting, detecting, and manipulating light waves and light particles (photons). These technologies are critical for future economic opportunities and national security. They play a significant role in modernizing industries and are essential for digital transformation, sustainability, and technological advancement.
Dutch research in Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics is leading within Europe. The Netherlands has invested in and established a strong position in the industrialization of these technologies, building a complete value chain within Europe. Innovation and the application of Optical Systems and Integrated Photonics are expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. Holland High Tech supports this extensive ecosystem through strategic programs and public-private partnerships, driving innovation in the Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics domain.
Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics is one of the innovation domains of Holland High Tech, the top sector High-Tech Systems and Materials. We promote innovation in this field for the consortia of research organizations and companies through government-funded subsidies under the PPS Innovation Scheme. Explore the overview of Holland High Tech's funded R&D programmes and projects.
Optical Systems are complex systems designed to refract, reflect, or manipulate light to perform optical functions. For instance, photons are information carriers in communication, and lasers play a crucial role in driver assistance systems in the automotive industry (LIDAR).
Integrated Photonics is a technology that integrates multiple photonic functions - such as generation, modulation, and detection - into a single functional photonic chip.
Applications in this domain are numerous and include innovations in generating, transporting, detecting, and manipulating light waves and photons. Examples include:
Impact areas of Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics include:
These benefits make Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics indispensable for the Netherlands’ digital transformation, sustainability, and technological progress.
The Optical Systems & Integrated Photonics domain intersects with various other innovation domains:
Optical systems are critical for quantum sensing, computing, and communication, where photonics plays a key role in quantum optics integration.
Optical systems enhance imaging technologies, such as medical imaging and industrial inspection, by improving resolution and sensitivity.
Optical technologies are integrated into mechatronic systems for precision applications, such as lithography and medical devices.
Photonics plays a role in increasing efficiency in energy storage and conversion, as required for solar energy use.
Photonics is fundamental to lithography technology used in semiconductor production by companies like ASML.
Innovation is essential for the Netherlands. We are working on smart innovations to address urgent transitions: Dutch solutions for global challenges. With technological innovation and unique expertise, we, as a country, anticipate future safety, autonomy, job security, and income. Holland High Tech amplifies the impact of innovation. Discover more about how we do this through our focus on urgent transitions and the innovation domains that provide solutions.
