The University of Arizona James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences, in partnership with Nanoscribe GmbH & Co. KG—a leader in two-photon polymerization (TPP) printing technology, is thrilled to announce an Optical Design Competition for 3D Printed Optical Systems. This global competition invites university students to explore the innovative potential of 3D printed optics using cutting-edge two-photon polymerization technology.
About the Competition
Two-photon polymerization printing is revolutionizing the fabrication of micro-optics and advanced optical systems, offering unparalleled precision and flexibility. This competition aims to promote the use of 2PP printing in imaging and optical applications by challenging students to design innovative optical components or systems that can be fabricated using this transformative technique.
Eligibility
- Open to university students (undergraduate, graduate, or PhD candidates) worldwide.
- Participants may enter individually or as part of a team (up to 3 members per team).
Competition Details
Design Objective
Create a functional and innovative optical component or system that can be fabricated using two-photon polymerization printing technology.
Deadlines
- Submission: May 1, 2025
- Announcement of Winners: Sept. 15, 2025
Requirements
- A detailed design file (in standard formats like STL, OBJ, parametric lens design according to ISO 10110).
- A description of the design, including its purpose, functionality, and potential applications (max 2 pages).
- A summary of how the design leverages the advantages of 2PP technology.
- Selected awardees must be willing to have their novel work released to the public domain for research purposes.
Judging & Prizes
Judging Criteria
Innovation: Originality and creativity of the design.
Functionality: Practicality and effectiveness of the optical system.
Feasibility: Compatibility with 2PP printing technology.
Application Potential: Relevance and impact of the design for real-world applications.
Judging Committee
Dr. Rongguang Liang, University of Arizona
Dr. Andrea Bertoncini, Nanoscribe
Dr. Simon Thibault, Université Laval
Prizes
1st Place: $500 (sponsored by Nanoscribe) + Fabrication of the winning design by the University of Arizona with support from Nanoscribe.
2nd Place: $300 (sponsored by Nanoscribe) + Fabrication of the design by the University of Arizona with support from Nanoscribe.
3rd Place: $200 (sponsored by Nanoscribe) + Fabrication of the design by the University of Arizona with support from Nanoscribe.
How & Why You Should Enter
How to Enter
Submit Your Design: Submit your design and documentation by the deadline.
Selection Process: Top submissions will be shortlisted, and winners will be announced after evaluation.
Why Enter?
- Showcase your optical design skills on a global platform.
- Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge 3D printing technology.
- Collaborate with experts in the field and receive professional feedback.
- Opportunity to have your design fabricated and showcased by leading institutions.
Contact Information
For inquiries, please contact: rliang@optics.arizona.edu.
Join us in pushing the boundaries of optical design and fabrication! We look forward to seeing your innovative designs.
A Special Thanks to the Organizers
