TNO and Demcon shared plans to explore a new joint venture that will bring advanced deformable mirror technology from the laboratory to the global market. Revealed at the SPIE event in Copenhagen, the potential partnership is aimed to accelerate the industrialization of a key Dutch technology, transforming specialized prototypes into a robust commercial product line poised for a strong international market position. By scaling this innovation, the parties intend to secure global leadership in high-growth domains including astronomy, optical communication, high-energy laser systems, and laser-induced nuclear fusion.
Industrializing a deep-tech breakthrough
At the heart of the envisioned portfolio is TNO’s patented hybrid variable reluctance (HVR) actuator technology, a paradigm shift in the capability of adaptive optics. By delivering a massive leap in force output compared to traditional systems, this innovation allows for the use of significantly thicker, more durable mirror shells. This structural robustness eliminates the extreme fragility and high maintenance barriers that historically restricted the technology, successfully transforming a specialized laboratory asset into a resilient, highly serviceable commercial solution ready for global market integration.
Global potential
The real-world potential of this scalable platform is vast, directly addressing critical bottlenecks in next-generation global infrastructure. In an era defined by data security and connectivity, the technology facilitates ultra-high-speed, secure laser communications between Earth and space. Simultaneously, it continues to grant deep-space astronomy unprecedented clarity to explore the universe. Decades of pioneering research at TNO are thus translating into tangible economic value and profound societal progress.
Arnaud de Jong, managing director TNO High Tech Industry: “True economic and societal value is realized only when TNO’s breakthrough innovations successfully transition from the lab to the global marketplace. Together with our long-standing partner Demcon, we explore how to fast-track this critical deep-tech asset into a powerhouse venture.”
Dennis Schipper, CEO of Demcon: “Demcon thrives on driving high-complexity engineering into robust, market-ready product lines. We are leveraging our deep mechatronics and industrialization expertise to build a leading international market position, ensuring this venture delivers reliable, standardized solutions that will empower commercial applications worldwide.”