Synova and Kataoka Form Partnership

Synova SA of Lausanne, Switzerland, and Kataoka Corp. of Kyoto, Japan, have signed a licensing agreement under which the Japanese company will integrate Synova’s Laser MicroJet technology into its laser-processing systems sold exclusively in Japan. The collaboration includes the opening of a joint micromachining center in Kyoto, which will serve as a manufacturing plant for the integrated systems and as a demonstration, service and support facility. As part of the agreement, the systems will be identified with “Laser MicroJet inside” and Synova-Kataoka logos. Synova will transfer its technological expertise and provide manufacturing support to the Japanese company. The three-year exclusive agreement will focus on developing business in emerging nonsemiconductor applications such as photovoltaics, electronics, medical devices, metal cutting and diamond tools. Synova expects to gain an expanded customer base in the region.