Photonics Companies Win Queen’s Awards

Four photonics companies have received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise – the UK’s prestigious accolade for business success. Specialised Imaging Ltd. of Tring won for its innovation in the continuous development of ultrahigh-speed imaging systems used in military and scientific applications. Renishaw plc of Wotton-under-Edge was awarded for its TRS2 laser-based noncontact broken tool detection system, which is used in computer numerically controlled machining centers and in machining operations in the automotive and consumer electronics industries. OpTek Systems of Abingdon won for international trade. The laser processing solutions provider is celebrating its third consecutive record year for revenues, based on the increased demand for machine tools used in manufacturing and testing photovoltaic cells. Zeeko Ltd. of Calville, a manufacturer of machines for polishing high-precision, free-form surfaces, received the award for its Optic Fabrication Centre, a corrective polisher with integrated measuring capability. It allows users to progress a precision component from start to finish without removing it from the machine. The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are made each year by Her Majesty the Queen on the advice of the prime minister, who is assisted by an advisory committee that includes representatives of government, industry and commerce, and the trade unions.