Consortium backs laser-based display technique

Leaders of the U.S. Display Consortium in San Jose, Calif., are awarding a contract to Accudyne Corp. of Palm Bay, Fla., to develop a laser-based glass separation system to increase speed, accuracy, and edge strength of flat panel displays. The new laser cutting system will be applicable to all flat panel display technologies for single and laminated sheets of glass. The consortium is providing $2.25 million, and Accudyne is providing $2.25 million. Equipment is to go to beta sites in 1998. - J.K.