From university to industry - challenges in upscaling optical microstructures for daylight redirection in buildings

Abstract

In this paper we present some of the challenges faced when upscaling optical microstructures from a lab scale 1x1 cm sized proof of concept sample to a square meter sized object that can be installed in a building. The optical microstructure in question is obtained by a chain of fabrication steps, all linked with each other and with a certain level of complexity. Each of the total of 8 distinct steps presented difficulties that will be briefly introduced in this paper. On a less technical level, long term commitment of public funding and industrial partners was the base for the first upscaling of this complex technologies for pilot production. Taking the best from two worlds: industry and academia has proven effective in the development of such a novel technology.