By combining optics, photonics, electronics and intelligent data analysis, we build sensing systems that measure gases, materials, surface characteristics, three-dimensional shapes, and industrial processes. From laboratory prototypes to rugged field systems, our technologies are designed for real-world applications in industry, healthcare, environmental monitoring and space.
We develop complete optical measurement systems from first-principles modelling and optical design to robust field-ready prototypes.
Our expertise includes:
Our technologies are used in industrial inspection, process monitoring, healthcare, environmental monitoring, recycling, food production, subsea operations and space missions.
We believe the best measurement systems are developed in close collaboration with the people who will use them. That's why we work alongside industrial partners, domain experts, public organisations and other research institutions [JT1.1]to understand real-world challenges before developing new technology.
Many measurement challenges cannot be solved using off-the-shelf instruments. Our projects therefore begin with a measurement problem—whether it's improving process control, gaining insight into complex materials, automating inspection or collecting data that was previously impossible to measure. By combining application expertise with our knowledge of optics and sensing, we develop solutions tailored to the challenge rather than just adapting existing technologies.[JT2.1]
Our research spans the complete development process, from optical modelling, system design and experimental studies to rapid prototyping, testing and validation. Through SINTEF’s Sensor Systems Lab, we can characterise materials, liquids, gases and objects; build test benches and integrated sensor prototypes; and evaluate new measurement concepts under realistic and demanding conditions. This infrastructure allows us to reduce technical risk and verify that systems perform reliably before they are deployed in manufacturing plants, industrial environments, underwater or in space.
What sets us apart is our ability to combine first-principles optical modelling with advanced data analytics, enabling more robust sensing than purely data-driven approaches. Together with SINTEF's Micro-Optics and Computer Vision research groups, we extend across the complete sensing value chain—from novel photonic components and optical design to intelligent sensing systems and AI-enabled interpretation of sensor data.
This unique combination enables us to integrate spectroscopy, imaging, 3D sensing and complementary measurement technologies into complete sensing systems that address complex challenges no single discipline could solve alone.
Close collaboration with industry is central to how we work. We combine scientific excellence with application expertise to ensure our solutions address real measurement challenges and deliver value where they matter most. Selected collaborators and industrial partners include ESA, TOMRA, Shell, Gassco, Equinor, Siemens, Kongsberg, ZIVID, Lerøy, Nortura, Ocean Tech, Tunable, Optronics, Elke, Hydro, and 3B.
Our research is developed in collaboration with leading industrial companies, research organisations and universities across Europe and beyond. We participate in major European research programmes and long-term international partnerships, particularly in the fields of photonics, sensing technologies and space.
Our technologies are deployed in real-world applications around the globe. The ANITA multi-gas analyser, developed with the European Space Agency (ESA), has been operating on the International Space Station (ISS) since 2021. In industrial applications, our optical technologies have contributed to TOMRA's world-leading optical sorting systems, now deployed in recycling and food processing facilities around the world.
Do you need to measure something that existing sensors can't? Are you looking for more reliable measurements, better process insight, or a new way to inspect products, materials or environments?
We can help you:
We help transform challenging measurement problems into practical sensing solutions that create value in the real world.
When light interacts with matter, its behaviour varies across different wavelengths depending on the material’s physical and chemical properties. Spectroscopy involves measuring these wavelength-dependent interactions—the spectral response—to gain...
We have developed online detection systems for detecting and quantifying gas, dust and particles.
When spatial or depth-resolved information is needed beyond single-point measurements, we develop robust optical solutions for 2D and 3D imaging systems.
