Eero, an Optical Designer at Grundium

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Eero Peltohaka enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and dog, as well as meeting friends for bouldering, ice swimming, and gaming. Originally from Pori, he has called Pirkanmaa home for over a decade.

Grundiumin Office Manager, Sirpa Immonen, esittäytyy ja kertoo matkastaan Grundiumin mukana.

Can you describe your role as an optical designer at Grundium? What does a typical workday look like for you?

Over time, my role has become more diverse, and my tasks vary depending on the progress of different projects. When designing a lens, the process follows a structured approach: first, we define the vision and goals, then I create an initial lens model using an optical simulation software that performs ray tracing. This model is then refined by adjusting the shape, materials, and placement of individual lens elements inside the scanner. Collaboration with the algorithm and mechanics teams is crucial, as achieving optimal optical performance and ensuring compatibility with the rest of the system are both essential.

A typical workday involves adjusting optical simulations on my computer. Since these simulations can take a long time to process, I often leave the system running overnight and continue optimization in the morning.

When did you start at Grundium, and how has your role evolved since then?

I started at Grundium in late summer 2022, and my role has since expanded into the field of optomechanics. Now, I also design mechanical structures that hold the lenses in place and have deepened my expertise in CAD software and manufacturing methods for components.

What keeps you excited about coming to work every day? How would you describe the work atmosphere?

The work atmosphere is inspiring and motivating. At Grundium, we create high-quality products, and the working methods support optimal productivity. There is a lot to learn from colleagues, and the work strikes a balance between independence and collaboration. The environment is dynamic and social, and knowledge sharing is an integral part of the work culture.

What has been the most rewarding challenge you have faced as an optical designer at Grundium? How did you overcome it?

Designing the latest completed lens model, which is now in the prototyping phase, has been particularly rewarding. The project has progressed well, and I have been learning continuously. The key to success has been having sufficient resources, the right materials and tools, and the opportunity to develop my skills independently.

Do you have a favorite moment or memory from your time at Grundium?

At the beginning of my time here, I had the opportunity to get familiar with optical simulations and learn how lens designers work in practice. I had long wanted to design lenses and other optical models myself, and finally getting to do so has been an incredible experience.

What are you looking forward to in the coming months or years at Grundium?

I want to be involved in developing new and innovative products and see projects progress from concept to final product.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Grundium or in optical design?

If you are interested in light as a science (photonics) and engineering as a field, I highly recommend pursuing this career. Grundium values creativity and employee contributions. The work culture is open, and ideas are welcomed even at the management level.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience at Grundium or your work in optical design?

Designing small, mobile devices always comes with challenges, and that is precisely what motivates me here. At Grundium, technical challenges are not obstacles but opportunities for growth. Additionally, Grundium offers excellent employee benefits, such as lunch subsidies, ePassi, and a reward fund, along with shared leisure activities.