Catalyzing innovation: The Fraunhofer Society and Institute for Laser Technology

The Fraunhofer Society, Germany continued to play a key role in applications-oriented research in medical engineering, defense, energy, and other areas, while its Institute for Laser Technology (ILT) focused on innovative laser solutions for several problems. The Society was established in Munich 1949 by representatives of industry and academic institutions, the government of Bavaria, and the Federal Republic of Germany. The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology was one of the three institutions that represented the society. It was one of the world's most important contract research and development institutes for laser development and applications with around 300 employees and more than 11,000 m 2 of usable floor space. Its main expertise involved developing new laser radiation sources and components, laser measuring and testing technology, and laser manufacturing.