In 1997, three of the institute's faculty members formed the company to work on a research and development project with the Department of Defense. AlphaMicron's initial work resulted in their patented e-Tint(tm) technology which allows fighter pilots' visors to instantaneously adapt to changing ambient light conditions. Today the company designs and manufactures high-tech military and consumer products utilizing liquid crystal technology and an innovative Roll to Roll (R2R) manufacturing process, allowing for more cost-effective manufacturing.
AlphaMicron recently moved its manufacturing operations to the Centennial Research Park, located on the campus of Kent State University. "When we were considering a move, we wanted to take our company to the next level," AlphaMicron CEO Dr. Bahman Taheri says. "It's great for AlphaMicron to launch its next phase of growth in Northeast Ohio and remain in the city of Kent. This is in line with our goal to help the region in strengthening existing and emerging technology ventures and maintain our close relationship with our colleagues at the Liquid Crystal Institute at Kent State University."
In 2010 the company transitioned from research and development to marketing their patented technology for auto-tinting flight deck goggles, ski goggles, motorcycle visor inserts, and auto-dimming automotive mirrors. Future product releases include cycling and paint ball lenses, and upgrades to their original flight deck goggles include a sealed power unit and neutral color tinting. AlphaMicron is also researching innovations in auto-adjusting residential windows, shutters for semiconductor fabrication facilities and luxury eyewear. AlphaMicron and the company's auto tinting ski goggles were recently featured in The Burton D. Morgan Foundation's 2011 annual report.