IMRA is an Ann Arbor-based company that "researches, develops and manufacturers ultra short pulse (USP) fiber lasers," explains Kiyomi Monro, the company's director of business development, marketing and sales. The company is preparing to pitch its plan to add a fourth building to its campus to its parent corporation, Japan-based Aisin Seiki, in order to grow its applications research division.
The most prominent use of IMRA's USP fiber lasers is in LASIK surgery, although its applications are many -- hence the company's desire to expand its reach into that arena. Another use is terahertz imaging, which Monro describes as "a more sophisticated imaging system then, say, x-rays. It can detect traces of explosives, how much active ingredient there is in a pill, how much alcohol is in a wine." Monro says their lasers also have uses in cutting computer chips and in semi-conductors, a side of their business they are working to grow.
The company was spun off of Aisan Seiki in 1990. Monro says, "Seventeen years later, it's a pretty solid on-going business." The company currently employs approximately 50 and, if the $5 million building plan is approved, he estimates the headcount will increase by 20.
Source: Kiyomi Monro, IMRAWriter: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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