Gain design flexibility for AR/VR glasses by optimization of the laser cutting process

Freeform Laser cutting for glass sheets or glass wafers, based on the Corning® nanoPerforation process, is a well-established process in multiple industrial applications, including eye pieces for AR/VR applications. Ultrashort pulsed lasers offer the possibility for a very confined energy deposition using non-diffractive beams, resulting in laser cuts with exceptional performance at high process speeds. In the area of AR/VR the edge strength parameter is one of the most important, as any breakage of the glass will result in the device becoming non-functional. We will show how the edge strength and the separation mechanism on which the flexibility of the form factor relies, can be best optimized at the same time. Further benefits include an optimized material utilization for this clean, energy efficient and waste free technology. This knowledge enables fast process development, resulting in highest quality in terms of sub-surface damage, edge strength and chipping distribution. The resulting advantage is a high process stability and yield, which consequently facilitates a robust solution for industrial implementation. This presentation will focus on High Index Glasses used in the AR