Testing and consulting centers for laser technology - a model for wide-base advancement of laser technology for SME's and the crafts trade

摘要

Since 1995, a program to support the introduction or increased use of laser technology into small and medium-sized enterprises (SME's) has been successfully running in Germany. This program is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Technology and is called 'Testing and Consulting Centers' (TCC). It provides SME's, especially those in the crafts and skilled trades field, improved access to the possibilities of using laser technology by providing consulting and testing at no charge, under certain limitations. A national network of 11 regional centers (consisting of a total of 65 partners) provides not only proximity to the SME's, but also competence in all fields of laser technology, including - apart from the conventional applications such as cutting, welding and surface treatment - laser metrology, medical applications, and laser safety and special clusters concerned with training and education and the specific concerns of crafts and trades. Since 1996, over 2800 SME's have taken advantage of the TCC Program, and over 500 training seminars or events have taken place, with over 15,000 participants. Based on the expertise gained by using this program, many enterprises have introduced laser technology into their firm, or have used laser technology for production or manufacturing in job shops. Thus, the TCC program is not only supportive of the SME's, but also provides direct input into the laser industry in a wider sense.