Student employees in the course of the master thesis (m/f/d) Topic: Automation of a Test Setup [...]

About us

ficonTEC Service GmbH is an innovative high-tech company that has quickly established itself in a highly specialized market since 2001. With continuous growth and innovative development, we are a recognized market leader in the automated assembly and testing of optoelectronic components and (hybrid) photonic devices. Our company develops advanced solutions such as high-precision die bonding, fiber alignment, and laser soldering systems, which are critical for manufacturing cutting‑edge photonic devices like LiDAR sensors, high-speed data transceivers, and silicon photonics. These technologies are paving the way for advancements in telecommunications, autonomous vehicles, and medical diagnostics.

Our company-wide goal is to set up top‑notch technology that facilitates our customers from around the world in building tomorrow’s optoelectronic devices. We believe in equal opportunity, with employees committed to diversity and inclusion, offering a vibrant working environment.

You are writing your master thesis and looking for a suitable company in a forward‑looking industry? Then become part of our strong and experienced team in the R&D department!

Student employees in the course of the master thesis (m/f/d)

Topic: Automation of a Test Setup for Optical and Mechanical Qualification of Fiber Array Units

The student will:

• Analyze current manual testing procedures and identify parameters suitable for automation.
• Design a modular and flexible test station integrating both optical and mechanical measurement capabilities.
• Develop a software interface (e.g., using Python, PCM) to control instruments, execute test sequences, and log results automatically.
• Validate the setup by testing representative fiber array samples and comparing automated results with manual reference measurements.
• Document system performance, repeatability, and potential improvements for industrial deployment.

Expected Outcomes:

• A fully or partially automated setup capable of testing and qualifying FAUs according to defined optical and mechanical specifications.
• A software tool for measurement automation and data processing.
• A technical report including setup design, validation results, and recommendations for further optimization.

Keywords: Fiber array units, optical testing, automation, alignment, mechanical qualification, photonic packaging, precision metrology.

Description

The objective of this thesis is to design and implement an automated test setup to evaluate the optical and mechanical performance of fiber array units (FAUs). Fiber arrays are key components in photonic packaging, where precise alignment and reliable optical coupling are essential to ensure high performance and manufacturability.
The work involves developing a system capable of automatically testing multiple optical and mechanical parameters, such as insertion loss, return loss, alignment accuracy, and mechanical stability. The setup should integrate opto‑mechanical hardware (e.g., precision stages, cameras, optical sources, and detectors) with control software for automation and data acquisition.

We offer

• Competitive remuneration options
• Excellent prospects, including international career opportunities
• Exciting, international clients from a wide range of industries
• Onboarding program and individual support
• Regular meetings and close coordination with your mentor for targeted and individual development/personal advancement
• Short decision‑making processes, opportunity to get involved and make a difference
• Top hardware, including ergonomic workplace conditions

Are you interested?
Then accept the challenge and apply with a meaningful application (cover letter and resume) under:

You can find out more about ficonTEC here: