Printed electronics is the innovative technology that forms the foundation for various products applicable in areas such as the Internet of Things. As a specialist in screen printing, the fundamental technique behind printed electronics, Metafas is at the forefront of the European market in developing user interfacing and printed electronics. For many, printed electronics is still a vague concept. Here, we explain what printed electronics is, how it works, and its uses.

Printed Electronics

When we translate the term "printed electronics" literally, the definition becomes clear: printed electronics. Printed electronics refers to an electronic circuit created using screen printing techniques on various substrates such as plastic, paper, or fabrics. These substrates can then be shaped into virtually any desired form. For example, consider the shape of a car steering wheel or a wristband for a smartwatch. Thanks to its form-free and flexible nature, the substrate allows for endless possibilities. With printed electronics, Metafas creates flexible electronics that can be used for countless new applications.

How does printed electronics work?

To clarify how printed electronics work, let’s explain the production process using the example of a pill strip in smart packaging. Imagine a foil with a printed pattern of conductive traces. These traces are created using ink that conducts electricity effectively.

The printed plastic foil is then cut to fit the packaging mold using a laser or cutting machine. If necessary, the foil can also be reshaped using thermoforming techniques.

When a pill is pushed out of the packaging, the foil with the printed traces is interrupted at a specific point. Electronics detect this interruption, triggering wireless communication with a smartphone. A dedicated app on the smartphone logs the time and location of the pill removal. To promote patient adherence, the app sends reminders when it’s time to take the next dose. Printed electronics thus bridges the gap between the pills in the packaging, cloud-based software, and the smartphone.

Applications of Printed Electronics

The flexible nature of printed electronics makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. The technology isn’t just useful for machine control panels—it also enables significant innovations in the medical industry. Examples include smart patches that act as sensors to measure specific values, such as glucose levels in diabetes patients.

Metafas has also developed a "smart" heart rate monitor using printed electronics. This sensor, created with a conductive trace pattern, can detect heart rate frequencies.

Beyond the medical industry, printed electronics finds applications in many other sectors, such as logistics. For instance, flexible solar panels developed with printed electronics can adapt to curved surfaces, making them ideal for use on boats or campers.

Curious About the Possibilities?

Are you curious about what printed electronics could do for your products or services? Contact us to explore the possibilities. We’re happy to brainstorm ideas with you.