Metafas Group BV, Netherlands
The demonstrator box aims to show in a pratical and interactive way how printed electronic sensors work. It is designed to engage with, allowing users to feel, see, and press different sensors.
They have build a solid casing with a interactive display and 8 slots in which printed sensors can be assembled. Each sensor has its own functionality of which the output or the measurement will be presented in the display. For example, a heater sensor can be switched on and off via the touch screen display. Or the temperature sensor show the measured temperature in the display. Or the pressure sensor show the relative force (from 0% to 100%) which the user applies on the sensor. With this box they create a very hands-on and accessible tool to “play with” printed electronic sensors.
For many potential integrators of PE sensors, end-users, students or other stakeholders, it is not always very clear how PE sensors do work. With this tool it becomes very accessible for much more people.
- Screen: All these features are shown on a screen where you can also adjust them.
- Strong Case: Everything is packed in a tough aluminum case.
- Easy to Fix: If any sensor breaks, you can easily replace it.
Impact: This device helps people understand how printed electronics can be used in real life. It’s a great tool for learning and seeing how these technologies work together.
Functionality
Printed Components: The demonstrator uses special inks to print electronic components like heaters, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, and temperature sensors onto a flexible plastic sheet (PET film).
Sensors in Action:
- Heater: When activated, the printed heater warms up, demonstrating how printed heating elements can be used.
- Pressure Sensor: When you press on the pressure sensor, it detects the force and shows the pressure level on the display.
- Humidity Sensor: This sensor measures the moisture in the air and displays the humidity level.
- Temperature Sensor: It monitors the temperature and shows the current reading on the screen.
Display Interface: All the data from these sensors is shown on a display. You can see the readings and adjust settings directly from this interface.
Durable Housing: The entire setup is enclosed in a sturdy aluminum case, making it durable and easy to handle.
Replaceable Sensors: If any sensor stops working or needs an upgrade, you can easily replace it without much hassle.
In essence, this demonstrator lets you interact with and understand the practical applications of printed electronics in a hands-on way.
Benefits of the project
Motivation: The main motivation behind this project is to create an engaging and interactive way to demonstrate the capabilities of printed electronics. By building a hands-on demonstrator, we aim to make it easier for people to understand and appreciate this technology.
Advantages:
- Educational Tool: The demonstrator serves as an excellent educational resource, helping students, engineers, and enthusiasts learn about printed electronics in a practical and interactive manner.
- User Engagement: By allowing users to touch, see, and interact with the components, the demonstrator makes learning about printed electronics more enjoyable and memorable.
- Versatility: The inclusion of multiple sensors (heater, pressure, humidity, and temperature) showcases the wide range of applications for printed electronics, from everyday devices to specialized equipment.
- Durability: The sturdy aluminum housing ensures that the demonstrator is robust and can withstand frequent use, making it suitable for various environments, including classrooms and exhibitions.
- Ease of Maintenance: The ability to easily replace sensors means the demonstrator can be kept up-to-date and functional with minimal effort, ensuring long-term usability.
- Innovation Showcase: This project highlights the innovative potential of printed electronics, encouraging further research and development in this field.
Overall, the demonstrator not only educates but also inspires, showing how printed electronics can be integrated into real-world applications and sparking interest in this cutting-edge technology.
Target Industry
The demonstrator is particularly relevant to the Automotive Industry, with a special focus on the Electric Vehicle (EV) sector. In the EV business, the Battery Management System (BMS) is crucial, and this demonstrator can showcase sensors that monitor and control the battery of an EV. This application is vital for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of electric vehicle batteries.
Other Areas are:
- Consumer Electronics: Used in flexible displays, wearable devices, and smart packaging.
- Healthcare: Integrated into medical sensors, diagnostic devices, and wearable health monitors.
- Internet of Things (IoT): Essential for creating smart sensors and connected devices that communicate over the internet.
- Printing and Packaging: Used for smart labels, RFID tags, and interactive packaging solutions.
- Smart Buildings: Incorporated into smart windows, lighting systems, and environmental sensors to enhance building automation and energy efficiency.
- Industrial Sensor application: Robots, Machinery controlling and watching
Organic & Printed Components
- Conductive path
- Printed dieelectric / insulator
- Printed heater
- Printed sensor
Classical Components
- PCB
- Display
- Powerbank (Plug)