Optical fabrication, coating and integration: step by step

A visit to REO's facilities, with optical fabrication and coating capabilities, advanced assembly technology and an extensive in-house metrology lab. Research Electro-Optics (REO) is a precision manufacturer of optomechanical assemblies, HeNe lasers, optics and thin-film coatings for demanding applications in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared. Located in Boulder, CO, the company primarily services medium- to high-volume OEMs including manufacturers of projection displays, defense and aerospace systems, industrial laser systems, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and medical laser systems. REO provides engineering support from concept to design for high-volume manufacturing. Paul Kelly has over 30 years of experience in manufacturing companies working to improve customer service and quality, reduce cost and grow business. During his three years at REO, he has focused on developing and implementing strategies that address these issues. Prior to REO, he worked for 15 years leading Particle Measuring Systems. Kelly holds a BS in metallurgical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, a MS in metallurgical engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. REO was originally formed in 1980 as the electro-optics division of Particle Measuring Systems (PMS), a manufacturer of laser-based contamination measurement instruments. During that time, the division developed substantial expertise in the manufacture of HeNe lasers, superpolished optical surfaces and high performance thin film coatings using ion beam sputtering technology. REO was then established as a separate company in 1993 to more effectively serve and pursue business with external customers. Since that time, the company has grown by concentrating on the volume manufacture of ultra-precision optical products and incorporating them into higher-level assemblies.