Dieter Hofmann

Title: Dieter Hofmann: Innovator in Coating Technologies

Introduction

Dieter Hofmann is a notable inventor based in Bruchkobel, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the field of surface coating technologies, holding a total of 6 patents. His innovative approaches have advanced the capabilities of tools and substrates in various industrial applications.

Latest Patents

Hofmann's latest patents include a multilayer Ti-Al-N coating for tools. This surface coating features alternating first and second ternary layers, where the first layer, TiAlN.sub.x, has a higher nitrogen content and is considerably thinner than the second layer, TiAlNy. The first layer is applied by decreasing the nitrogen content of a reactive atmosphere during the sputtering of a TiAl target. The second layer is then applied by maintaining a constant nitrogen content at the minimum level. Additionally, he has developed a system for coating substrates with magnetron cathodes. This system allows for the arrangement of substrates within a vacuum chamber on a substrate holder, utilizing magnetron cathodes with specific magnetic configurations to create a closed magnetic field.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Hofmann has worked with prominent companies such as Leybold Aktiengesellschaft and Leybold-Heraeus GmbH. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his expertise in coating technologies and contribute to various innovative projects.

Collaborations

Hofmann has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Bernd Hensel and Hans Schussler. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that has led to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the field.

Conclusion

Dieter Hofmann's contributions to the field of surface coating technologies are significant and impactful. His innovative patents and collaborations highlight his dedication to advancing industrial applications. His work continues to influence the industry and inspire future innovations.