The main objective of sub-project E4 was the investigation of a method for writing magnetic information onto component surfaces by ultrashort laser pulses. In order to store magnetic information on the component opto-magnetic effects were tested, as they may allow switching of magnetic domains without external magnetic fields. This would result in a data storage method which would enable writing or changing information at large working distances (some hundred millimeters) and with high data density on the surface. However, in the course of the project (period 2009-2013) no suitable storage material for optical data storing on component surface without external magnetic field assistance could be identified.

Additionally, a laser patterning process of thin films on surface components was investigated. Systems of metallic and dielectric films, which were deposited directly on the surface of a component, were selectively patterned by a scanned laser beam in order to fabricate strain sensors for deformation or force measurements. It has been shown that the laser based patterning method proved to be a robust and flexible manufacturing tool and provides an economical alternative to lithographic patterning. In addition, the laser structuring enables the processing of complex shaped surfaces. In the project, the ablation behavior on 3D surfaces was modeled and the patterning process of functional strain sensors was demonstrated (see Figure 1). These sensors were integrated into components of the gentelligent machine tool.

The method of laser micro patterning of thin-film strain sensors on component surfaces will be transferred to an industrial application within the project T03.