ESI's LaserMill Micromachining system selected to aid in Parkinson's research

Electro Scientific Industries has announced that Lund University in Sweden has selected ESI's LaserMill micromachining system for use in a cutting-edge, scientific application.

The system will be utilized by Lund University researchers in the production of micro-wires and circuitry used to combat the effects of Parkinson's disease. It is believed that the wires and circuitry-which could eventually be implanted into the human brain-will conduct minute amounts of electrical current to specific areas of the brain to lessen the impairment of motor skills associated with Parkinson's.

"We are thrilled to be aiding Lund University with such revolutionary research and development," said Michael Stubelt, director of marketing for ESI's New Wave Research Division. "This is an unusual application for our LaserMill system, but it underscores the tool's wide versatility and remarkable accuracy. The system offers significant flexibility by allowing users to switch between two wavelengths (532nm/355nm), while performing micro-precision cutting of various materials and surfaces. While the average human hair has a diameter of between 17um to 181um, the tool's high precision enables Lund's researchers to work with wires as small as 5um in diameter. As a result, we are especially optimistic that the LaserMill will provide Lund University, as it has to our entire global customer base, with exceptional reliability and ROI, and will continue to break ground in new and exciting applications."

The LaserMill Benchtop Micromachining System is equipped with a solid-state, YAG laser with multiple, flexible wavelengths (532nm or 355nm). The system has 2½ axis stages as well as a video microscope, both of which are completely controlled by a reliable and user-friendly Windows XP-based software. The system yields sharp and repeatable results which range from simple holes to complex patterns.