TactoTek, Finland
The illuminated IMSE® emblem provides a slim, smart, and efficient solution for illuminating a logo, enabling placement also in confined spaces where conventional, lit emblems are not suitable.
It addresses the demand for enhanced brand visibility and identity, while significantly reducing energy use and environmental impact. It shows how sustainable design and advanced electronics can be seamlessly integrated into everyday products.
Key Features
- Ultra-thin, seamless structure (≤4 mm) with bright, uniform illumination
- Up to 50% fewer LEDs → lower power use and CO₂ emissions
- 80–85% weight reduction vs. conventional emblems
- Fully sealed electronics for durability outdoors
- Flexible placement (hoods, grilles, liftgates, interiors) and simple assembly
Functionality
The Illuminated IMSE® emblem is a sealed lighting module, where electronics and LEDs are integrated directly inside molded plastic. The light is guided through the thin, molded structure, creating uniform and bright illumination.
When applied into an end product, the IMSE® emblem operates from the host system’s supply rail—typically 12 VDC in automotive use, with other voltages also supported. It connects via a connector and wire harness and is controlled as part of the application’s lighting system.
Depending on the LED type and control method, an Illuminated IMSE® Emblem can support static or dynamic illumination. Optionally, also sensors (e.g., force, proximity) can be in-molded together with conductive traces and LEDs into the thin, robust structure. The polymer stack, which acts as the light guide, can be configured with single or multiple materials to meet optical, mechanical, and environmental requirements.
Benefits of the Project
Motivation
Brands need efficient, iconic design elements that stand out while supporting sustainability goals. In the automotive sector, OEMs are moving to flush, seamless front fascias. They need brand-defining exterior lighting that fits thin surface skins, installs cleanly, and supports sustainability targets.
Problem solved
Conventional emblems require deep housings, and they are often complex and energy-consuming. The Illuminated IMSE® Emblem is thin, efficient, and scalable, and it can be mounted from the top side. It requires only a small hole for the connector instead of a larger cut-out for the whole emblem.
Advantages
- Enables flush, seamless surfaces; outside-in assembly
- Daylight-visible illumination and excellent uniformity with low power consumption
- Fewer parts → reduced material use, simplified assembly and logistics
- Very thin assembly depth → major packaging freedom behind closed grilles/fascias, as an example
- Programmable lighting effects for distinctive brand signatures and communicative lighting
- Robust, sealed construction suited to vibration, moisture, and wash cycles
Target Industry
- Automotive & Mobility: passenger cars, LCVs, buses; powersports (motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles); micromobility (e-bikes, e-scooters).
- Off-Highway & Specialty Vehicles: agriculture & construction (tractors, harvesters, excavators), mining, municipal/fleet, forklifts.
- Mobility Infrastructure & Equipment: EV charging stations, parking systems, kiosks, delivery robots/docks.
- Marine & Rail: boats, PWCs, trains/trams.
- Consumer & Commercial Products: premium appliances, pro audio/gaming enclosures, smart home hubs—front-facing brand surfaces.
Examples reflect the broader capability scope of Illuminated IMSE® Emblems; the demonstrator is built based on an automotive exterior emblem use case and requirements.
Organic & Printed Components
- Conductive path
- Interconnection
- Printed graphics
Classical Components
- LEDs and resistors
- Connector