Next Scan Technology wins EPIC Phoenix Award 2017

12 Apr 2017

Scanlab subsidiary, developer of polygon scanning systems, recognized for entrepreneurship in photonics.

Next Scan Technology, a developer of optical polygon scanning systems for the emerging ultra short pulse laser applications market, has been presented with the EPIC Phoenix Award 2017. The annual award is made in recognition for entrepreneurship in photonics.

Next Scan’s systems are advantageous in large format laser processing applications ranging from patterning display surfaces or scribing solar cells, to micro-drilling and processing of semiconductor wafers. The company, based in Evergem, Belgium, is a subsidiary of Scanlab, which is headquartered in Puchheim, Germany.

Lars Penning, CEO and Co-Founder of Next Scan, commented, “Myself and co-founder Ronny De Loor are really proud to receive this EPIC Phoenix award. It is an honor to be recognized by such a notable group of European photonics entrepreneurs."

He continued, “We have always believed in the opportunity of addressing an uncharted area in laser materials processing. Since timing determines the necessity of an enabling technology, we are encouraged and convinced that we grow with Scanlab, to address future markets and make further contributions to the EPIC community.”

Penning explained the background to the development of Next Scan’s optical polygon scanning systems: “In 2006, I came across a laser company offering large-format laser cutter and engraving systems. That company enabled me to work with this equipment on developing my own designs."

He commented, “De Loor mastered high-throughput laser scanning during his career in graphic arts. Knowing that some of his designs were based on polygon scanning and fast scanning I asked him if we could develop a polygon scanner for CO₂ lasers?”

'Significant interest'

After launching its first products product at the 2013 Munich LASER show, Next Scan received significant interest from system integrators in Asia and the first orders followed. Validation projects were initiated and new requirements were materializing. However, it was still a challenge to convert R&D-related projects into a stable cash flow.

"We needed to find a strategic partner offering credibility and funding of required investments besides input on lessons learned in this challenging industry. At the end of 2015, Next Scan Technology was acquired by Scanlab. By teaming up with the market leader we are set to continuously provide innovative and distinctive products that offer competitive edge to our customers," Penning concluded.

“The EPIC Phoenix award symbolizes the innovative entrepreneurship, that eventually leads to success stories of innovative European Photonics Companies,” commented Benno Oderkerk, CEO of Avantes, Netherlands, who is president of the board of directors of EPIC.