embalajes del futuro.pdf

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Research, development and

commercialisation activities in

printed intelligence

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

VTT PRINTED INTELLIGENCE


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From roll-to-roll..


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2


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Contents

FROM ROLL-TO-ROLL TO ROLL-TO-PRODUCT ................................................................................

PRINTED DIAGNOSTICS AT ORION DIAGNOSTICA ...........................................................................

CONSUMER PACKAGED GOODSTaking consumer packaged goods sustainably to the digital era ...................................................

Taking packaging graphics to the next level with ecological holograms ..................................

Enhancing the package with mobile digital information and augmented reality .......................

Active paper enables new biodegradable functionalit ies for the consumer packaged goo

Printable memory cards .........................................................................................................................Printed functional films embedded into consumer packaged goods and packaging ..........

Thin OLED light sources bring life and flavor to fast-moving consumer products .................

Biobased substrates for printed intelligence .....................................................................................

MEDICAL AND DIAGNOSTICSPrinted intelligence offers new opportunities in medical diagnostics and research-based indu

Roll-to-roll polymer-based microfluidics for life science applications ............................................

Label-free detection methods in diagnostics and drug discovery .................................................Printed microfluidic platforms for Immunoassays .............................................................................

Paper-based immunodiagnostics .........................................................................................................

POCTER allows POC tests to be analysed anywhere ....................................................................

CONSUMER ELECTRONICSNew electronics manufacturing technologies offer greater freedom for product design .............

The mobile microscope used as an interface to printed applications .........................................

From consumer products to consumer electronic products ........................................................Flexiblility of lighting enables new end products .............................................................................

New user interfaces ...............................................................................................................................

Printed backplanes for flexible displays .............................................................................................

CONSTRUCTION AND ENERGY


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FROM ROLL-TO-ROLL TO ROLL-TO-PROTaking printed intelligence developments out of the l

What are printed intelligence productsmade of?

Sugar and spice and all things nice?

A few years back, when attending printed electronics orrelated conferences, one may still have gained the same

sense as when listening to that familiar nursery rhyme

about what little boys and girls are made of. Perhaps, the

individual ingredients and components listed in conference

papers for printed electronics were more correct than the

metaphorical ingredients of the children in the poem, but

while it is possible to envision boys and girls, many stake-

holders in printed electronics have struggled to envisionwhat products these new printed components could re-

ally amount to.

Printed electronics and intelligence is a technology-inten-

sive industry in its early stages, and it is undoubtedly very

excited about the future prospects of its printed compo-

nents, thin film layers, etc. These developments have large-

ly been driven by technical research institutions and R&Ddepartments of companies. The visions of the industry

have therefore also been technology heavy and the devel-

opments in a predominantly technology push mode. Prod-

uct developers have been unfortunately few, and the end

market needs (specification data sheets) that the indus-

electronics sector, our tea

ships with end-users outsi

tronic components supply.

trial designers in many proj

during the past four years, wdevelopment specialists.

Despite such efforts, the n

oped for/with our customer

is partly because the expec

tential end customers wh

tronics also often heighte

logical capabilities are not y

When balancing market n

technological capabilities, V

telligence technologies hav

expand end markets. Ultim

tions start off as niche appl

off many established indus

rapidly grow to new heights

We are happy to say that

er products exist and have

to markets and new ones a

public customer relationshi

Jani-Mikael Kuusisto, Harri Kopola


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this work is starting to have. We also continue internally to

measure actively the business success of VTTs printed in-

telligence spin-offs and the investment capital they have

raised, the share of direct contract research work com-pared with public and jointly funded research, royalties

from its IPR licensing, and other such measures.

Research beyond componentsBy entering a phase of commercialisation, VTT has by no

means abandoned its area of core strength in printed in-

telligence: namely applied research. To further strengthen

our position as a leader in roll-to-roll-printed intelligence,we now embrace more strongly a philosophy of roll-to-

products. This annual review is a testimony of our strong

commitment and efforts to help industrial companies

make it to the end market with their new products. This re-

port is a collection of extended abstracts of the most im-

The final section of this report

efforts in materials and proces

The VTT researchers extensiv

faces between novel liquid phaprocesses continues to bear fr

terial and process inventions. T

ing built toward more pilot-scale

lowing us to demonstrate not o

also more proof of industrial-s

components are embedded in e

in the markets by end customer

product based in part on printe

VTT continues to be an active p

cross-national-level jointly fund

tinue to promote more develop

systems.

Figure 1. Observations on the printed intelligence industry, and drivers to commercialisation at


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6

The community also aims to enforce supporting infra-

structure in the areas of education, research and financing.

In addition to industrial money, these efforts are strong-

ly backed by regional and national public funding sourc-

es, including the EU. This funding is enabling the building

of the PrintoCent pilot production facilities at VTT in Oulu.

The first equipment is already installed and operational in

the hall, and the biggest line will be delivered in 2011.

With this unique piloting environment, VTT and its partners

are now able to develop and manufacture prototype prod-

ucts on the first industrial scale. This allows companies to

reduce the commercial and technical risk before investing

in their dedicated commercial-scale production lines. We

warmly invite companies and investors to contact us to

see how the PrintoCent network and VTTs services andtechnologies could help expedite developments from R&D

laboratories to products in the market.

The emerging printed intelligence industry and its custom-

er value chains require new types of solution providers

and system integrators offering new business opportuni-

ties. In part, VTT and the PrintoCent community promote

the emergence of a Finnish printed intelligence industrialcluster. For this reason, we at VTT also encourage our re-

searchers to seek spin-off opportunities. Furthermore, VTT

has started work with Invest in Finland to help companies

establish printed intelligence R&D units and other opera-

tions in Finland.

More proof of cash inflow

Materials companies have carried much of the industrialweight in developments to date in the printed electronics

and printed intelligence industry. This is only natural, as

materials are a key enabler. These companies are there-

fore in an excellent position to capture significant added

value once the end product markets take off.

gies and capabilities to the

and systems. This is also a

equipment suppliers, syste

velopers and producers to d

the evolving supply and cus

Potential end customers fo

also learning in practice abas well as the limitations) of

innovation around near-term

root. Product ideas are rap

tested in the market and eff

are on the way.

VTT Printed Intelligence is

this and is looking to furthethe aim of seeing their prod

oratory to industrial product

We would like to thank all o

ners, colleagues, financial

ners. We hope this report e

nies and people with entre

actively approach us to leanological possibilities and to

commercial use.

November 2010


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Ha

VPMichartel.

Jani-Mikael Kuusisto

Business development managerDirector, Printed Intelligence commericialisation [email protected]. +358 20 722 3008

Terho Kololuoma

Research CoordinatorPrinted [email protected]. +358 20 722 2154

Customer managers, Business arena coordinators and Technolog

Antti Kemppainen

Customer managerPrinted IntelligenceConstr. & energy

Eero Hurme

Customer managerPrinted IntelligenceCPG

Arto Maaninen

Research ProfessorVP of microelec. &sensors

[email protected]. +358 20 722 2348


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8

Orion Diagnostica is a pioneer in printed diag-

nostics. Since 2003, Orion Diagnostica has par-

ticipated in open-minded research in this field in

collaboration with VTT Technical Research Cen-

tre of Finland. The role of Orion Diagnostica hasbeen to bring the customers voice to the tech-

nology-driven world of printing. No doubt, the

emerging potential of printed intelligence will

open a new era for combining traditional print-

ing technology with a variety of innovative appli-

cations as well as broad multidisciplinary exper-

tise in, e.g., microbiology, chemistry, material

sciences and product design. The ultimate goalis to come up with future products and services

that not only offer novel, convenient and cost-

effective production but also completely new

benefits and solutions to the customer.

Novel cleanliness monitoring solutionmade possible by printing

The first example of the fruit ful collaboration betweenOrion Diagnostica and VTT is Orion Clean Card PRO

(Figure 1), which was launched in 2009. Orion Clean

Card PRO is a new-generation, instrument-free hygiene

test for monitoring one of the fundamentals of good hy-

giene: the effectiveness of surface-cleaning practices.

Printed diagnostics at Orion Diagnostica

for example, to ensure a

simpler, faster and more

giene of all surfaces that a

dition to food manufactureisations with stringent hyg

benefit from using the tes

giene standards in hospita

Simple, reliable and cost-e

Figure 1. Orion Clean Card P

very quickly that surfaces arbe in places with high stand

handling or hospitals. Photo

Aino Takala, Jaakko Rissanen


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been key to the development of Orion Clean Card PRO

(Figure 2). This award is granted every second year in

recognition of an innovation with industrial application

and substantial commercial potential in the chemicalfield.

Contact infoFor further information on Clean Card PRO and Ori-

on Diagnostica developments in printed diagnostics,

Figure 2. The winning team: from Orion Diagnostica, Leena Aro, Anne-Marie Ackermann, Vesa Kylm, Juhani Luotola, Pauli ina Pettil and Pivi R ikkinen-Holm; from VTT, Mikko Kerne

Salonen and Jenni Tomperi. Photo: Juha Rahkonen

range covers diagnostic test

diseases and disorders affect

metabolism, as well as specific

says. Its hygiene monitoring teinstitutions to detect contamin

or product residues and to mo

cleaning and disinfection routi

hygiene requirements.


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10

Consumer packaged goods (CPG) theyre so

familiar, require little involvement from us, and

often so inexpensive to use that we as consum-

ers may not have noticed the rapid evolution

within these product categories. But take al-most any CPG category or individual brand and

think back 10, 20, 30 years. Most certainly the

product category you are thinking about and

the brands within them despite their familiarity

will have changed significantlyif nothing else

at least the packaging looks a little different and

the products are available in more places than

before. Also, if you were to search for informa-tion on these brands, you would find a range of

online content and services intended to support

the use of said products.

CPG products and brands will continue to develop and

evolve. In this section we explore how printed intelligence

will in part be shaping their future.

The challenge: better performance andeco-efficiency

Today the CPG sector is faced with challenges from in-

creasing cost of energy and raw materials. Furthermore

environmental sustainability including finding ways for re-

Taking consumer packaged goods sustathe digital era

techniques. The next front

perience and emphasizing

time optimising product

ing waste.

Meanwhile, many attention

today have been enabled b

computing devices, inform

Gradually with ubiquitous (

little item in the world is ex

itself and be connected to

the sensibility of such a vis

sion has already been a keelectronics.

While durable goods could

ducing such functionalities

ble CPGs particularly with

tainability seems like a f

intelligence, VTT is approa

perspective of introducingwith the aim of extending t

so that they more effective

wider information systems.

Printed intelligence technol

CONSUMER PACKAGED GOODS

Eero Hurme, Jani-Mikael Kuusisto


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The rapid market expansion of smar t phones during the

past few years has started to bring some relief. Mobile

devices increasingly come with embedded cameras

that can read codes and images on packaging and oth-

er printed media - linking the consumer to online con-

tent with increasing ease. With further improvements to

usability, these so called cross-media or hybrid-media

solutions will eventually hit mainstream. Rapid advanc-

es in mobile software and hardware are currently driving

this development. With printed intelligence technologies

some of this value-add will also be captured in the phys-

ical items themselves. Most importantly from the per-

spective of high volume cost effective products no ex-

pensive electronic tags or modules on packaging are re-

quired to get started. Instead new types of coding and

ink technologies will bring access codes and sensing/in-dicator features, which make the physical product and

package a key component in the usage paradigm. Fur-

thermore this will make the scarce package graphics real

estate more visually appealing and consumer engaging

increasing the communications and media value of pack-

ages. Some examples of technologies already proven in

the lab and available for first market trials are covered in

the coming articles.

New products with printed componentsWith further developments in printed intelligence sub-

strates, materials, printing processes, printed systems

and their interconnections to wider information systems

more advanced functionalities may begin to make their

way into high volume CPG products and packaging. In

addition to connecting physical packaging and productsto online content and services, printed intelligence also

enables the enhancement of existing product categories

with new printed features introduced into the products

themselves or the development of fully new types of CPG

products, which build on novel printed functionalities.

as this could already be realise

ics components. However, by

nents into these systems, the

more cost effectively and with

ed components also introduce

sibilities for product design.

New inks and substrates are b

printed functionalities sustaina

CPG products. However, the

ume products, especially those

ponents, still requires more de

collaboration with waste man

businesses. New separation te

dling are in development.

Where it startsPrinted intelligence technologi

products to the digital era. Ra

made possible through the co

ligence with traditional packag

turing techniques, plus the ubiq

phones and other mobile read

Ultimately the vision is to inc

products to consumers, and

tal product sustainability. The

back-end information systems

tionality within a package or p

lenge to predict and will likely

gories. VTT works closely with

Moving Consumer Goods) brasmaller CPG companies to dev

ing and emerging technologies

nies and their consumer resear

turn fuelling R&D for next gene

companies throughout the CPG

CONSUMER P


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12 CONSUMER PACKAGED GOODS

Holographics in packaging is considered to

provide nice dynamic effects that liven up the

graphics and increase the attractiveness of

packages. Being confined to a limited number

of production technologies and carrier materi-als limits its use. At the same time, most of to-

days holographic solutions are seen to produce

harmful waste during production and after use.

VTT has developed technologies and process-

es to produce holograms without metals and

vacuum-coated materials, so production is sim-

Taking packaging graphics to the next levecological holograms

ple and no harmful wa

bilities for graphic des

panded, as these ecol

cost-effectively applie

which has not been po

IntroductionTraditionally, holograms p

that came to the front of t

ed from a specific angle. T

3D effect. Simple holograp

Raimo Korhonen, Eero Hurme, Olli-Heikki Huttunen


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CONSUMER P

for packaging decoration for several years. These are no

longer 3D but dynamic. The image changes when it is

looked at from different angles or when the angle of the

light changes. These images are visible in normal light-

ing environments. A metal coating is used to give a goodreflection on the surface and a strong effect. Sometimes,

these effects are even considered too strong and visual-

ly distracting. VTT has developed technology to produce

sufficiently strong and visually appealing effects without

metal coatings.

Technology: Production by hot

embossingVTTs ecological holograms are produced by a process

called hot embossing (Figure 1). In this process, a heat-

ed tool is pressed onto the surface of the substrate. The

nanoscale patterns on the surface of the tool are cop-

ied onto the surface of the substrate by applying heat

and pressure. The nanoscale patterns form diffractive

gratings that guide the light beams that hit the surface

to form holographic images. Thus, no materials, such aspigments, are used to make the colours and images, only

surface patterns are required.

The production of holograms can be integrated into print-

ing or packaging phases in the manufacturing chain. For

vide large dynamic visual effect

patterned, or small patterned a

Without the need for metallic fi

of producing transparent hologmore freedom to combine the

holograms with static printed

provide subtle effects imitating

ice or water, or they can provid

to attract attention.

Figure 2. VTT ecological holog


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uct packaging (Figure 3). At the core of its development

is the combination of a wide range of skills in optics, ma-

terials, biomaterials, machine and processing technolo-

gies that expand beyond those of traditional holograph-

ics. As an example, in order to decrease the environmen-

tal burden of coated papers, VTT has developed a starch

coating that can be used instead of mineral coatings. Thestarch coating in paper improves its printability and at

the same time improves the thermoplastic properties of

the surface. In other words, holograms can now be pro-

duced directly onto the paper coating something that is

not possible with mineral coatings.

One application of VTTs ecological hologram technolo-

gy is transfer holograms. A user obtains a hologram stick-er and can transfer the hologram image onto a wide va-

riety of surfaces, using either heat or just hand pressure.

These holograms can even be applied to 3D surfaces.

Transfer holograms can supplement the existing transfer

image markets: dynamic images on stickers for children,

Vision: dynamic graNow designers can selec

brary, pattern them and co

ages. In the future, design

gram design themselves w

diately shows how the des

surface of a 3D model of a

Ecological holograms on p

ward a vision of making dy

ages. VTT is also developin

minating surfaces and prin

ture, these technologies pr

dynamic and illuminating p

AcknowledgementsThis work was conducted VTT. The main scientists in

Tomi Erho, Johanna Hiitola

Heikki Huttunen, Raimo Ko

Sipilinen-Malm, Antti Sunn

This work was funded by

Funding Agency for Techno

Figure 3. Holograms used in packaging.


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CONSUMER

VTT has developed several novel solutions

for the digital enhancement of packages. One

method uses recognition of objects in the cam-

era phone image to identify the package and

connect to additional digital information. Anoth-er method uses augmented reality to create en-

tertainment linked to the package. Responses

to these kinds of solutions have been positive

in the user trials and business studies carried

out by VTT. The enhancement technologies of-

fer benefits to all players in the value chain, and

the consumer will also be better informed.

IntroductionMore and more information competes for the limited

space on packages. Consumers want easily readable in-

formation in multiple languages. At the same time, the

brand owner wants to communicate directly to the con-

Enhancing the package with mobile digitalinformation and augmented reality

Caj Sdergrd, Jouko Hyvkk

sumer and receive his or her fe

come the space limitations an

active is to offer additional pro

ers mobile phone. This print-to

often referred to as hybrid med

Several technical solutions exi

between the physical packag

Image processing programs i

can read the existing EAN 1D

packages [1] as well as 2D ma

ual codes hidden in the print

can be read [3]. Codes can aby recognising the package a

camera image using mobile i

ogy (fingerprinting). In addition

electronic linking methods inc

and even ultrasonic methods.


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16

Benefits for the end-user and brandownerVTTs user and business studies [4] show that hybrid me-

dia offer benefits in the form of cost savings, new busi-

ness opportunities, added value to existing business

and increased customer loyalty to all players in the val-

ue chain. For the end-user, it holds clear promises be-

cause modern consumers increasingly want product in-

formation such as origin, production conditions, ecologi-cal footprint, user instructions and prices. For the impor-

tant food product category, many want information and

recommendations on nutritional content and recipes. In

some cases, it is not enough to view the information, the

user also wants to transfer the product information to his

formance processors, graage, fast connections and

have multiple accurate c

readers and 3D displays

projection. These smart

nicate with their physical

uct packages, in numerou

course also communicate

frigerators in this Internof product information, su

databases maintained by

will be opened to the cons

ation in which every produ

that all consumers can ac

Figure 2. Augmented reality enhancement of printed object like books and packages. Thi

on a laptop computer with web camera, on a smartphone or with special glasses.



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mobile application is mainly used as a user interface: tak-

ing a picture of a product from any viewing angle and

then showing the recognition result and digital content to

the user (Figure 1).

Compared with other actors in the mobile image rec-

ognition field, such as Googles Goggles and Nokias

Point&Find, VTTs solution can easily be integrated into

the printing production process, enabling an automatic

generation of database models.

VTTs image-based hybrid media technology is not lim-

ited to packages. For example, in [5] it was used to link

the pages of an everyday English study book to assort-

ed digital content such as listening tasks and gram-

mar exercises. In this trial, it was tested extensively by a

school class of children.

There are currently more than 750 million illiterate adults

in the world, but the mobile phone penetration rate is

still high, even in regions such as Africa. Using the im-

age recognition technology with, e.g., a medicine pack-

age, could link the user to digital content such as spo-

ken dosage instructions.

Using augmented reality to entertainthe consumerConsumer entertainment is also important in package

communication. VTT has studied augmented reality (AR )

as a novel tool to create playfulness connected to pack-

ages. In AR, the view of a package as seen through the

camera of a phone or laptop is overlaid with correct-ly positioned and scaled 3D graphics. When the pack-

age is moved in front of the camera, the overlaid graph-

ics move accordingly. The 3D graphical representation is

either linked to the package by printed graphical cues

markers or by scene recognition similar to that de-

AcknowledgementsOf the numerous VTT staff eng

augmented reality, the followin

tive packages in the Immedia

AR package projects: Maiju A

sa Hakola, Pertti Moilanen, Tat

Timo Kinnunen, Otto Korkalo,

nen, Anu Seisto and Anna Vilja

References[1] Jrvinen, P., Jrvinen, T

dergrd, C. HyperFit: hyb

tion and exercise managem

Conference on Pervasive

for Healthcare (PervasiveH

30 Jan.-1 Feb. 2008. IEEE

[2] Bckstrm, C., Sdergrd

eo processing method fo

ing of printed barcodes w

media Content Analysis, M

al 2006. Proceedings of S

607.

[3] Hnninen, H., Nuutinen,

and Annoyance of Digital in Finland 36(2007)1, pp. 2

[4] Lindqvist, U., Aikala, M

la, L., Mensonen, A., Moil

Laukkanen, M. 2010. Hy

Printelligence. Espoo: VTT

(VTT Working Paper 142.)

http://www.vtt.fi /inf/pdf/w

pdf.[5] Seisto, A., Federley, M., K

Book alone is not enough

ing material with digital m

VTT, 2010. 37 p. + app. 3

2539.) ISBN 978-951-38-7

CONSUMER P


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18

Paper as base material enables low-cost biode-

gradable and functional solutions with a wide

range of product design possibilities. The main

advantages of paper for this use are versatility

in design and the potential for extremely high-

volume production. Together, these can also

create opportunities in completely new applica-

tion areas, especially when combined with ac-

tive elements that enhance functionality.

Currently, the CPG industry is very interested in improving

performance with less waste. This translates into a need

for enhanced functionality and environmental sustainabil-ity. Fortunately, paper with (bio)active functionalities can

help in both of these areas. In this article, we discuss bio-

active paper and other printed indicators.

Novel functionalities and companionproducts enable better performanceIn terms of performance, (bio)active paper can help in

two ways. Firstly, it enables the development of com-pletely new types of CPG products based on novel print-

ed functionalities. Secondly, it can be used in compan-

ion products, which can help in the choice and use of the

product. Examples of these include different indicating

and monitoring tests, such as cleanliness indicators to

Active paper enables new biodegradable for the consumer packaged goods indust

Figure 1. Coloured water d

which fluid-guiding channe

Kalle Airo, Tomi Erho



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tegrating the novel functions into the package itself and

into the companion products discussed above.

Companion products andbiodegradable materials lessen wasteBioactive paper can help to reduce waste in two ways.

The companion products mentioned in the earlier para-

graph can help consumers to use the correct amounts

of products. On the other hand, paper is biodegradable

material that can also be recycled. This makes it more en-

vironmentally sound than many rival materials. This is of

great importance, as environmental sustainability is a ma-

jor focus area of R&D activ ities in the CPG industry.

Digital and physical productexperiences convergeIn addition to simple, visually readable indications, more

information and services can be included in the indica-

tor using a mobile phone reader. Currently, hybrid me-

dia are often based on 2D barcodes and camera phone

software that reads them. In the future, image recognitionwill most probably be used to recognise packaging with-

out barcodes or other indicators visible to the human eye.

VTT has been developing hybrid media, i.e., solutions

linking printed media to the Internet, since the 1990s. In

ufacturing needed to bring the

use. VTT also develops softwa

ital product experiences using

puters together with printed int

AcknowledgementsThis work has been conduct

ple within VTT in numerous re

Act, BioAct2, Sustainpack and

volved in this work include Ju

tinen, Maria Smolander, The

Hurme, Nikolai Beletski, Jali He

CONSUMER



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A novel printed memory technology has been

developed for low-cost, high-volume applica-

tions. The memory is electrically post-fabrica-

tion programmable and features a simple, re-

sistive, low-voltage read and write. The mem-

ory cards target applications such as access

codes to services (ePIN) and electronic ques-

tionnaires (storage-on-paper). The work is part

of the PriMeBits EU FP7 project coordinated

by VTT.

Introduction

Printed logic and memory is estimated to gain a signifi-cant market by the end of the current decade [1]. Rele-

vant application areas range from simple data-carrying

cards to programmable RFID tags. The research and

development efforts on different printable memory tech-

nologies have increased during recent years with clear

successes, for example, in mass fabrication, reliability,

low-voltage operation and retention time. Here we focus

on the resistive Write-Once-Read-Many (WORM) mem-

Printable memory cards

Ari Alastalo, Tomi Mattila, Terho Kololuoma, Jaakko Leppniemi

ories that are based on t

(RES) [2-5] developed by V

In RES [2-5], after printing

plied over the printed cond

sintering of the nanopartic

matic change in the cond

corresponds to writing of

write-once-ready-many m

0 state vs. the high cond

nal resistance can be syst

trolled, e.g., by the value

pansion to a multi-level opethe memory capacity. Sev

methods can be used for

ample, either an external

can be used or a memory

ricated on the printed prod

each of the bits can be ga

contact such that of the N

CONSUMER


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CONSUMER

Application opportunitiesElectronics access codes

To demonstrate electronic pin-code (ePIN) applicat ions,

low-cost memory cards and reading/writing deviceshave been developed. The codes stored on the cards

as shown in Figure 1 can link to personalised informa-

tion on the internet or provide access codes to services

(tickets, online services, etc.). The increasing availability

of SD card slots in laptop PCs can provide a convenient

interface to the memory cards.

Electrical inquiry cardsThe electrical inquiry card demonstrator, shown in Figure

2, is developed together with Stora Enso. Possible ap-

plications for such products are in marketing, customer-

feedback collecting (such as conference feedback), and

gaming. In this demonstrator a printed flexible battery

Figure 2. The electronic questionnaire card demonstrator developed in the PriMeBits-project b

[2] Sepp, H. and Allen, M. P

[3] Allen, M., Aronniemi, M.,

Ojanper, K., Suhonen,

cal sintering of nanopachnology, Vol. 19 (2008

Nano/19/175201.

[4] Leppniemi, J., Aronniem

Alastalo, A. & Sepp, H. P

Flexible Substrate Based

ing of Nanopar ticles, in pr

Electron Devices.

[5] Alastalo, A. et al. Printableories and their application

ence, Frankfurt, Germany

[6] Nicanti Oy. Nicanti Printe

www.nicanti.com/



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In the future, industrial consumer package

goods designers will gain more design free-

dom, as manufacturing technology develops to-

wards more flexible, design-friendly and inex-

pensive forms of integrated new functionalities

and electronics. New methods will change the

production processes and enable manufactur-

ing of entirely new kinds of products.

New levels of consumer engagement topackagingWith integrated new functionalities or simple electronics,

consumer packaged goods can be made more appeal-ing, desirable or eye-catching. Products with, e.g., holo-

graphic figures (Figure 1) or blinking LED lights (Figure 2)

will be noticed more easily by consumers.

Future products could also be smarter and activate the

eye-catching feature only when somebody approaches

or touches them, with, e.g., integrated capacitive sen-

sors.

Printed functional fi lms embedded into copackaged goods and packaging

Kari Rnk

The consumer packaged

act as a user interface, h

quire more information on

opinions and ratings, and

Consumers could also an

feedback using a user inte

uct package, e.g., by mea

and memory elements.

How is the integratVTT is conducting active

ed electronics and hybrid

smart systems. The resemanufacturing technologie

functionalities, injection m

ponent assembly to enabl

new technology into tradit

tively low cost. This appro

Systems.

CONSUMER P


24/90

CONSUMER P

Figure 2. LED lights integrated

onstrator produced in PrintoC

New printed components, roll-to-roll processing, and

the integration of post-printing assembly and integra-

tion processing offer unique potential for new products,

and leaner and efficient logistics and value chains with

less material loss and mechanical parts. This all leads

to more compact and environmentally friendly productswith new interesting functionalities, appealing design

and intuitive and engaging user experiences.

VTTs competence and capabilities cover broadly the

whole value chain from materials, component design



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VTT brings light to places no man has brought

light before. Researchers at VTT are developing

ultra-thin, printed light sources for displaying

dynamic signage icons, characters or numerals

on flexible planar surfaces. The realisation of

this novel signage technology is based on three

enabling platforms polymer light-emitting ma-

terials, printing deposition methods and roll-to-

roll processing techniques. VTT envisions that

the first generation product applications of its

printed OLED technology will be value-added

communication features that enhance the in-

teraction between fast-moving consumer prod-ucts and their end-users.

IntroductionAccording to the market research and analyst firm Na-

noMarkets, signage products manufactured using print-

ed and organic electronics are expected to generate a

2.5 billion dollar worldwide market within the next five

years [1]. While most of the attention on OLED technol-ogy comes from a lighting and display industry perspec-

tive VTT has chosen to focus on developing technolo-

gy to produce high-volume OLED signage products. This

strategic decision positions VTT and its technology in

the cross section of the two fast-growing OLED target

Thin OLED light sources bring life and logimoving consumer products

Riikka Suhonen, Markus Tuomikoski, Jukka Hast, Riku Rikkola

Figure 1. Flexible printed O


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27/90

Biobased, biodegradable and/or recyclable so-

lutions are in increasing demand in packaging

applications due to the growing concerns about

environmental issues. VTT has world-class ex-

perience of developing paper and board all the

way from fibre composition to the final printed

product for multiple applications

Increasing demand for biobasedsubstrates

A number of printed intelligence features, especially elec-

tronic features, require a stable, smooth and preferably

non-absorbent substrate. For this reason, different kinds

Biobased substrates for printed intelligenc

Tomi Erho, Pia Qvintus

of synthetic plastics have b

for printed electronics dev

commonly used in a range

thus providing an easy ba

tionalities directly.

Due to the growing concer

together with the uncertain

companies, together with

looking for new biobased,

solutions. Paper wrapping

evident examples of such s

CONSUMER P


28/90

Figure 2. Paper coating can be performed roll-to-roll with a range of equipment on various sc

The surfaces of these materials may need to be formed

differently, however, in order for them to function well with

printed electronic features [1].

VTT can develop and pilot from fibre to the final product

VTT has world-class experience in developing paper andboard for multiple applications all the way from fibre com-

position to the final printed product. VTT has extensive

development experience as well as on-going activities in

the development of biobased materials to replace syn-

thetic materials or minerals in, for example, paper and

References[1] Bollstrm, R., Mttnen,

P., Kaihovirta, N., sterba

vakka, M. A multilayer coa

suitable for printed functio

Vol 10 (2009) 5, pp. 1020-[2] Bryner, M. Making paper

Week, Vol. 168 (2006) 2, p

[3] Harlin, A., Edelmann, K.,Im

Pingoud, K. & Wessman,

sions - Spearhead Progra

28 MEDICAL AND DIAGNOSTICS


29/90

Diagnostics are an essential part of health care

and the research-based industry. VTT offers ca-

pabilities for the whole development chain, from

biomarker research and recombinant antibody

development to microfluidic platform design

and mass manufacturing.

Diagnostic tests are essential inmodern health careDiagnostic tests are an important part of health care. Cur-

rently, some 60-70% of medical decisions are based on di-

agnostic tests, and the diagnostics industry is now a mul-

ti-billion-dollar market. There is a growing requirement for

low-cost, mass-manufactured, point-of-care (POC) solu-

tions however. These POC tests are needed in the build-

ing up of the health care systems in developing countries

as well as for improving the efficiency of the systems in de-

veloped countries. They are used by medical profession-

als in hospitals, physicians offices, ambulances and re-

tail clinics as well as by the patients and consumers them-

selves at home.

For medical professionals, point-of-care testing enables

faster decision-making and streamlining of health care proc-

esses, as less tests need to be conducted in central labo-

ratories. For consumers, POC tests make it easier to moni-

proach reduces the sample

of immunoassays and enab

sation, integration and auto

Roll-to-roll printingmanufacturing and

VTTs expertise in roll-to-r

cost-effective and high-vol

agnostic products. It also

test products, which can ev

prototyping with the same

Cost savings can be achie

duction methods. E.g. pap

cheaper than the current m

es are considerably faster t

methods. The reduction in

the tests, which in turn en

novation in health care and

The use of printing processin the design of diagnostic

designed for, e.g., ease of

results. This versatility in d

tial for extremely high-volum

opportunities for the diagn

Printed intelligence offers new opportunitidiagnostics and research-based industrie

Markku Knskoski, Tomi Erho, Kalle Airo

MEDICAL


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31/90

This article compiles the benefits of roll-to-roll-

fabricated microfluidic platforms and highlights

their suitability for life science applications.

Microfluidics in a nutshellMicrofluidics refers to a multidisciplinary science field in-

volving the control and manipulation of fluids in geometri-

cally constrained microscale devices. Microfluidic lab-on-

a-chip technologies represent a revolution in laboratory

experimentation, bringing the benefits of miniaturisation,

integration and automation to many research-based in-

dustries. The attractiveness of microfluidics is based on

several inherent advantages such as minute sample con-

sumption, the integration of sample preparation and anal-

ysis steps, as well as reduced analysis times.

Microfluidics has facilitated major biochemical applica-

tion advancements in diagnostics, bioterrorism detection

and drug discovery. Numerous potential applications ex-

Roll-to-roll polymer-based microfl uidics foapplications

ist for biotechnology, pharm

riculture, etc. Cell sorting a

ics and clinical diagnostic

patient-operated assays a

est in life sciences.

The future looks briAccording to the EMMA Em

ic Applications report by Y

covery was recognised as

ics. Microfluidic products h

SME and the big instrumen

their way to becoming part

ogies used in research app

Many diagnostic companie

ics on their development ro

to support their growth st

identified as an enabling te

Ralph Liedert, Lotta Amundsen, Markku Knskoski

MEDICAL


32/90

Figure 2. Rolls of roll-to-roll hot-embossed plastic film with microfluidic channel structures.

opment of the point-of-care and molecular biology mar-

kets [1].

Microfluidics has a strong competitive advantage in the

diagnostic market, enabling analysis automation and

decentralisation, as well as in facilitating molecular di-

agnostic emergence and success [1]. The microsystem

technologies market for healthcare applications is ex-pected to grow from $1.2 billion in 2009 to $4.5 billion in

2015, representing over 1 billion units per year in 2015

[2]. It is predicted that wireless systems will exceed the

market share by as much as 50% [2].

Roll-to-roll (R2R) hot emboss

manufacturing method for p

es in which a heated embos

features onto a continuous th

(Figure 2). The relatively short

stamp roller and the polymer fi

enables all essential hot embo

ed and controlled in sub-seco

Owing to the continuous web

less operator-dependent and

piece-by-piece-handled static

Once the optimum parameter



33/90

aim of capturing target molecules from the sample. The

results are very promising. Electrophoretic separations

of nucleic acid sequences on R2R-fabricated platforms

have also been demonstrated [3, 4].

Towards greater complexityFuture projects aim to integrate additional functionali-

ties into printed microfludic chips, such as hydrophobic/

hydrophilic surface patterning, printing of biomolecules,

and on-chip solutions for valves, switches, thermo reg-

ulation and electrical connectivity. A high grade of in-

tegration helps to reduce the amount of special equip-

ment currently still used for chip handling, such as exter-

nal pumps, filters, illumination and read-out devices. On-

chip solutions will also make this technology more wide-

ly accessible beyond the doctors offices and other on

site use. The ease of use, high reliability, long shelf life

and low-cost solutions for microfluidic chip platforms can

boost the commercial future of this technology.

AcknowledgementsThis work has been conducted by a number of peoplewithin VTT. The main scientists in charge of the research

were Ralph Liedert, Leena Hakalahti, Sanna Uusita-

lo, Marika Kurkinen (R2R technology), Harri Siitari, Hans

Sderlund, Lotta Amundsen, Tarja Nevanen and Petri Sa-

project: Orion Diagnostica

Ltd, Medisize Ltd, Glycos

Ltd, Labmaster Ltd, Ciba

Panimolaboratorio Brygge.

References[1] EMMA Emerging Mar

tions. Yole Developmen

[2] BioMEMS 2010. Mi

healthcare application

203 p.

[3] Amundsen, L. et al. Tr

of affinity capture and

chips. LACE2009 15

of Biotechnology, Bi

and Industrial Applicat

sis and Microchip Tech

tober 2009.

[4] Amundsen, L. et al. Tra

gel electrophoresis on

Bioanalytical Research

nasaari, 30 September


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35/90

Label-free technology offers higher throughput and re-

quires a far lower sample quantum, making it attrac-

tive to companies involved in fragment-based drug dis-

covery. [2]

Polymer-based optical sensors meetthe requirements of massproducible,

disposable sensor chipsConventional analytical techniques are usually expen-sive, both in terms of personnel and equipment, and one

of the principal requirements is to perform screening

tests without a specialised infrastructure. The limitations

of current sensors include large dimensions, sometimes

Figure 1. Optical waveguide-based concept for label-free sensing.

MEDICAL


36/90

Figure 3. Mould and printed polymeric replica of a 2 m single-mode waveguide containing a

riod of 400 nm.

atively low temperatures as well as their potential for

low-cost production. With a printing method, high

quality integrated optical platforms and circuits can be

fabricated at relatively high volumes [3, 4]. An addition-

al advantage of printing fabrication is the fact that sub-

micrometer or sub-wavelength nanophotonic features

are processable during the same process step, with

other features. Figure 3 shows an example of this kind

of device containing a single-mode optical waveguide

with a sub-wave length refl ector producing optical res-

onance effects.

AcknowledgementsThe Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre of the University



37/90

VTT is developing R2R printing technologies

for manufacturing microfluidic platforms that

can be used in diagnostics and environmen-

tal analyses. The microfluidic approach reduc-

es the sample volume and performance time

of immunoassays. Printing technology offers

a flexible and low-cost way to mass manufac-

ture disposable diagnostic chips for the point-

of-care market.

Immunoassays are used to detectsmall amounts of biomarkersImmunoassays are most commonly used to detect

small amounts of biomarkers from human sera or physi-

ological fluids, and to screen for infectious or toxic sub-

stances and environmental contaminants. Today, this is

most often performed in microtiter plates in 96-well for-

mat in a laboratory environment. Due to the increasing

need to reduce healthcare costs, there is a growing de-

Printed microfl uidic platforms for immuno

Leena Hakalahti

mand for simple, easy-to-

quantitative immunoassay

offices and at home. Nitr

assays form the first gene

(POC) tests, but as they ar

results, as such, more sopextensive development.

Miniaturised solutiodiagnostics

The microfluidic approach

technology platform for t

ised solutions for in vitro d

monitoring. In microfluidic

and test performance tim

ly. When microtiter wells a

ics, the sample volumes c

100 ls down to l level and

several hours down to a fe

MEDICAL


38/90

VTT offers the whole chain ofcapabilities for the development ofpoint-of-care assay platforms

VTT has effecti vely bui lt capabi lit ies to offer new so-

lutions for customers in the diagnostic fi eld. VTTs re-

search panel contains the whole chain from biomar-

ker research and recombinant antibody development

to microfluidic platform design and fabrication. The print-

ed intelligence approach with R2R printing technology of-

The detection of cardvirus antigens has beVTT has demonstrated immu

chips fabricated by the metho

diac biomarkers (CRP, proNT

some virus antigens have b

lytes. In these assays, specifi

ies have been immobilised on

ture the analytes from the sam

Figure 1 b) Fluorescence signals of the CRP immunoassay in microfluidic channels.

0 ng/ml 0,1 g/ml 1,0 g/ml


39/90

MEDICAL


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Paper as a base material for diagnostics tools

enables low-cost biodegradable solutions with

novel design possibilities. VTT has demon-

strated a paper-based diagnostic test in which

the detection antibodies were inkjet-printed on

paper. This technology could open complete-ly new application areas for the diagnostics in-

dustry.

Paper provides a sustainable materialsolution for diagnosticsWith growing demands for low-cost, quick and easy-to-

use diagnostics, a need for biodegradable material solu-

tions is emerging. The natural tendency of paper to ab-

sorb liquids, together with the fact that paper is a biode-

gradable material from non-food biomass, makes it an

ideal platform for low-cost indicative diagnostics.

Printed paper diagnostics could widenthe application areas for diagnosticsResearch and development of paper-based diagnostics

has attracted an increasing number of research groups

worldwide [e.g. 1-5] Simple paper-based testing has the

potential to improve health-care processes in the devel-

oped countries, make diagnostics more widely available

in developing countries and enable new tools to be used

Paper-based immunodiagnostics

Tomi Erho

or instructions could also be p

sheet as the tests.

Technology demonstrpotential

VTT has developed a printed,test. This has been demonstr

test that shows if haemoglobi

plied to the paper test. The ou

seen visually as two lines for

haemoglobin is present in th

well-known indication method

cy tests.

The paper was specially develo

der to have suitable physical

tics of the paper sheet. Captu

printed on the paper. From th

flow test was constructed, sim

lose-based lateral flow test de

taining detection antibodies co

ticles was dropped on the lowe

liquid flowed through the test m

lines were formed on the pap

there was a detectable amou

sample.



41/90

This work has been carried out in the BioAct2 Project,

which was made possible by the financial support of

Tekes the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and

Innovation. The author would also like to acknowledge

the financial support of the following companies and

the invaluable guidance of the representatives of these

companies in the steering group of the project: UPM-

Kymmene Oyj, BASF Oyj, Tervakoski Oyj, Orion Diagnos-

tica Oy, Hansaprint Oy and Oy Medix Biochemica Ab.

ReferencesThe details of this research were published in an oral

speech in the Next Generation Dx Summit, Washington

DC, 24-26.8.2010. The details were also written in a sub-

mitted article: Lappalainen, T. et al. Cellulose as a novel

substrate for lateral flow assay.

[1] Pelton, R. Bioactive paper provides a low-cost plat-

form for diagnostics. Trends in Analytical Chemistry,

Figure 1. When the sample liquid contains no haemo-

globin (left), only one line is formed to show that the test

has functioned. When the sample liquid contains a de-

tectable amount of haemoglobin (right), two lines are

formed.

MEDICAL


42/90

VTT has developed point-of-care knowhow and,

for this reason, reader technology is also an im-

portant part of this development. The POCTER

reader is suitable for several types of applica-

tions. In the future, wireless and touch-screen

displays will enable more powerful use of thereader.

IntroductionPoint-of-care (POC) tests are a growing market. They are

typically used in the home and ambulances as well as

health centres and hospitals. Point-of-care solutions and

their development require reader technology to analyse

and archive results.

POCTER is based on the imaging of thetest

VTT has developed a rapid and quantitative point-of-

care test reader (POCTER) that is reliable and easy to

use (Figure 1). The reader is a small (150x70x50 mm 3),

hand-held device for systematic analysis and archiving

of measurement data. This reader is based on imaging

of the test. In addition to normal imaging, this reader can

image selected spectral components as well as fluores-

cence samples.

POCTER allows POC tests to be analysed

Rami Mannila

Wireless and touch-scfuture of POCTER

An independent reader with a to

developed based on this reade

formed in the reader and the re

reader or transferred via a wire

puter or server. The reader co

violet or infrared LEDs, besides

Figure 1. The POCTER reader

Business from technology


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POCTERPoint-Of-Care Test Reader

POCTER - rapid and quantitative lateral flow test

strip reader is reliable and easy to use. POCTER is

a small, hand-held device for systematic analysis

and archiving of lateral flow strip measurement

data.

Features:

Flow channel analysis based on fluorescence emission or

particle reflectivity

Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of fluorescent label and

gold particle test strips

Real-time analysis of reaction kinetics

High dynamic-range imager for lateral strips

Interchangeable mechanical adapter for various lateral flow

test cartridges

Small size

Analysis software

Illumination LEDs for different kind of lateral strips

Red (630 nm), green (530 nm) and blue (470 nm)

Benefits:

Reliable, versatile de

Significantly reduces

Easy to use - also su

Care (POC) applicat

Low volume shipme

Licensing and contr

manufacturing

Standard model specifications


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44 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS


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Innovative products from Printed HybridSystemsIn the future, industrial product designers will gain more

design freedom, as manufacturing technologies devel-

op towards more fl exible, design-fr iendly and inexpen-

sive forms of electronics. New methods will change theproduction processes and enable manufacturing of

entirely new kinds of products.

Modern electronics manufacturing and communica-

tions technology offers countless possibilities to cre-

ate new types of consumer products that are intelli-

gent and connected to the surrounding environment.

The work of VT T Printed Inte lligence in the consum-er electronics business arena focuses on the follow-

ing key areas.

Increased connectivity and functionalityFirstly, many products are already capable of connect-

ing to the Internet. With advances in integrated elec-

tronics, these will increasingly interface and inter-

act with other physical objects and smart devices. By

creating simple modules, such as the compact mo-

bile phone microscope with integrated LED illumina-

tion, there can now be a new easy-to-use interface be-

tween printed matter and the digital world. These elec-

movement, sounds, powe

ity readings. These create

for remote monitoring and

frastructure. Increasing th

tionality in consumer pro

tance of improving the usFuture user interfaces will

larger areas, and be embe

more intuitive, thereby pro

periences. VTT has worke

es such as in-moulded op

ible, wide-area-printed 3D

Thi rdly, many consumer pelectronics or sensor fun

is huge potential for new

crease the functionality o

ucts. An example could be

an embedded temperatur

is too hot. Another examp

simultaneously measures

embedded strain gauges(

Enabling new appliFuture applications of pla

include mobile phones an

New electronics manufacturing technologgreater freedom for product design

Kari Rnk, Howard Rupprecht

CONSU


46/90

ing approach, the printed electronics industry also

benefits from faster time-to-market compared with

fully printed products such as backplanes for flexi-

ble OLED displays. VTT is actively building a global-

ly unique pilot production facility to enable proof-of-

concept demonstrations and small-scale productionramp-up for customers.

Design freedom at low costsThe Printed Hybr id Systems approach g ives designers

greater freedom to create new types of products with

the following attributes:

Flexibility and light weight

Low-cost conformal integration

3D system miniaturisation air out

Intuitive user interfaces

Large-area embedded functionality

technology platform that can

electrical and mechanical fun

New printed components, ro

the integration of post-printi

offer unique potential for newalso enable leaner logistics a

material loss and fewer mecha

to more compact and envir

ucts with new functionality, a

intuitive user experience.

VTTs competence and broad

whole value-chain from mate

and processing to system in

onstrations, process control

manufacturing. With active in

ment, these developments are

Figure 1. The usability of everyday items can be improved by integration.



47/90

A microscope add-on module for a camera

phone has been developed at VTT. The core

component of the module is a special plastic

lens that can be manufactured cost effectively

in large volumes by injection moulding. Since

its introduction a few years ago, the modulehas raised great interest in several companies

and fields of technology.

IntroductionMedical point-of-care diagnostics is developing at a rap-

id pace, as the results of biotechnology research find

their way into commercial products. Product packag-

es will also contain increasing intelligence in the future.These are examples of printed functional ities that are

The mobile microscope used as an interfaapplications

Jukka-Tapani Mkinen, Raimo Korhonen

being developed at VTT.

phones have become sta

of us carry around in our p

use these devices as inte

plications.

The add-on device can be

bile phone cameras and it

tures of objects at 0.01 m

nation of portability, conn

capability make mobile ph

developing new devices.

achieved with the add-on

al applications ranging fronostics and entertainment

CONSU


48/90

The microscope module is very small, so it fi ts in thepocket and forms a very compact analysis package

with a mobile phone (Figure 1). The manufacturing

costs of the module are extremely low compared with

traditional microscopes [2]. Images can be recorded,

processed and shared in an instant, on the spot, with-

out the need to take the imaged object to a special lab-

oratory. All the communication possibilities of the mo-

bile phone can be used to send and access informa-

tion. This offers opportunities to vendors to make com-

pletely new types of service products based on web

access.

Paper surfaces have randocause very small printing va

make every printed code indiv

can be generated in the cod

cial algorithms when engravin

make copying of the codes ex

variations can be detected b

scope because of its high re

techniques can also be used

face microstructure.

The microscope module is st

different types of mobile phon

Figure 2. Image of a blood smear sample taken with a mobile microscope.



49/90

the print quality near the printing machines during trials

runs and immediately send photos to their centrally lo-

cated knowledge centres for analysis and quick advice.

The mobile microscope helps make

diagnosesOne of the most basic tools in medical diagnostics is the

microscope. It is the first tool in the evaluation of many

diseases, such as skin cancer, tuberculosis, malaria and

parasites. The great benefit of combining a microscope

with the mobile phone platform is the ability to record

and transfer images in an instant with a device that can

be carried around easily. In developing countries around

the world, there are many remote locations in which cel-lular phone networks are available outside the electric

grid. These networks can be used to transfer images

taken with the mobile microscope to doctors and spe-

cialists who can analyse the images and make a diagno-

sis. With the help of GPS location data connected to the

pictures, the doctors can also follow the progression of

infectious diseases in real time.

The mobi le microscope can be used for point-of-care

purposes by combining it with printed components for

applications like home pregnancy tests or blood sample

analysis (Figure 2). Microvias printed on disposable test

the Finnish Funding Age

vation. The project concen

applications of the device

based technology and ser

Add-on module tecspecificationsSize: 82mm x 37mm x 12m

Weight: 32g (including bat

Imaged area: 3mm x 4mm

Image resolution: 5m-10

camera)

AcknowledgementThis work has been condu

within VTT. The main scien

were Jukka-Tapani Mkin

Kernen (optical instrume

(point-of-care diagnostics)

rity markings and print qua

References[1] Mkinen, J-T. & Kern

a microscope add-on

phone. Proceedings o

658507-110.

CONSU


50/90

In the future, industrial product designers will

gain more design freedom, as manufacturing

technology develops towards more flexible,

design-friendly and inexpensive forms of elec-

tronics. New methods will change the produc-

tion processes and enable manufacturing ofentirely new kinds of products.

Modern electronics manufacturing and communications

technologies offer huge potential to create new types of

consumer products that are smart and connected to the

surrounding environment. An example could be a baby

spoon that has an embedded temperature sensor to

warn if a product is too hot. Another example could be asmart jug that simultaneous ly measures and weighs the

content with embedded strain gauges.

Future applications employing plastic-based electronics

could include mobile phones and electronic appliances,

particularly for the home and the automotive industry . It

will also be possib le to make, for example, new types of

From consumer products to consumer elecproducts

lighting and decoration produ

sors, light sources and light gu

What can hybrid systeoffer future consumer

VTT is conducting active resed electronics and hybrid ma

tems. The research focuses o

ing technologies such as roll

ties, injection moulding and t

sembly to enable seamless in

nology into traditional produc

cost. This approach is called

(PHS).

In the future, electronic produ

freely, as electronics circuits a

instead of conventional rigid

possible to produce compar

ics in very large quantities usin

continuously running roll-to-r

ogy.

Kari Rnk, Jukka-Tapani Mkinen, Mikko Paakkolanvaara



51/90

Figure 2. Examples of future possibilities of design and added functionalities by hybrid inte

uct can be upgraded to new attractive designs. b) Electronic products can be made water

a)

b)

In addition to simple pass ive structures like conductors,resistors and dielectrics, active optoelectronic compo-

nents such as Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs)

and Organic Photo Voltaics (OPVs) have also been print-

ed at VTT. VTTs aim is to create hybrid systems, and to

weight measurements. Senents such as an OLED d

solar cells have been man

ble foil. The foil, with additio

integrated into the handle

CONSUM


52/90

Figure 3. Technology and concept demonstrators for hybrid systems and polymer integration

1. Large-area-printed capacitive sensor system for new types of user interfaces, e.g., in gam

2. Flexible autonomous power source and storage integration with roll-to-roll-printed organic

thin film batteries for, e.g., wireless sensors.

3. NFC-powered, flexible OLED with SMT diode and capacitors for, e.g., point-of-sales envir



53/90

and CPUs, as well as high-throughput and high-yield

manufacturing processes such as lamination, printing,

bonding and encapsulation. The integrated manufactur-

ing vision is combined with roll-to-roll-compatible, stop-

and-go post-processing or component assembly on flex-

ible foil and injection moulding.

Figure 2 shows some examples of future possibilities of

design freedom. The added functionalities have been vis-

ualised by industrial designer students inspired by the po-

tential of plastic integration.

What have concepts and demonstrators

already proven?VTT Printed Intell igence has designed and manufac-

tured several integration concept demonstrations in a

number of research projects over the past couple of

years. Flexible systems and rigid 3D structures based

on assembled foil over-moulding are shown in Figure 3.

VTT Printed Intelligence partner for

future productsVTT Printed Intelligence is actively looking for opportu-

nities to create new polymer-based customer products

with interesting, new value-adding features, appealing

design and new user experiences. VTT Intelligence could

The research work on syste

in several projects, includin

SPANT, and was made po

of Tekes the Finnish Fu

and Innovation. System in

mous Cost Efficient Energopment was carried out in

nanced by the European C

CONSU


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VTT Printed Intelligence objectives for lighting

focus on developing thin, flexible and cost-ef-

ficient solutions. Cost-efficiency will be sought

by roll-to-roll processes and the ability to inte-

grate lighting elements into product structures

and product packages. The main application ar-eas of interest are decorative lighting, backlight-

ing and point-of-purchase, signage and interior

lighting, and architectural lighting. VTT technol-

ogy development in flexible lighting has focused

on fully roll-to-roll printed OLEDs (Organic Light

Emitting Diodes; inorganic LED chips in lami-

nated multilayer polymer foil structures and the

integration of lighting elements into smart pack-aging and products.

IntroductionThe global lighting market is currently going through radi-

cal change and it is therefore considered one of the most

dynamically developing fields in electronic devices. The

main technical drivers for this disruption are the rap-

id progress in Solid State Lighting (SSL), semiconduc-tor technologies, and organic and large-area electron-

ics. On the other hand, changing legislation and societal

needs, such as improved energy efficiency, sustainability

and CO2 reduction, are shaping customer behaviour and

Flexiblility of lighting enables new end produ

The solubility of the polymer ma

OLED technology enables the

deposition techniques such as

ing as a deposition method h

tages compared with vacuum

which are the traditional procmolecule-based OLEDs. Thes

high speed of fabrication, low

wastage, and low processing

ables the use of flexible subs

comprise direct patterning, fab

well as the use of well-estab

and machinery.

The flexible, thin polymer OLE

by VTT will be manufactured b

a continuous, scalable, roll-to

technology platform to meet fl

verse, rapidly changing market

The first generation of flexible

be applied to a wide variety oflow cost and short product lif

of this next-generation techno

ly improved lifetime expectancy

value propositions freedom o

Kimmo Kernen, Kari Rnk, Riku Rikkola



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within multilayer polymer foils and finally laminate the foils

together using hot lamination. The lamination process

melts the polymer layers together and produces effec-

tive shielding for LED chips and contacts against envi-

ronmental stresses, such as moisture and pressure. It is

also possible to use the laminated structure as an insert

in the injection-moulding process to achieve freeform 3D

illumination structures. The approach of combining sev-eral manufacturing technologies gives designers greater

freedom to create new types of products with the follow-

ing attributes:

Flexibility and light weight

red. In addition, it can be

(UV) and infrared (IR) LED

nation modules can be ba

screen-printed phosphorou

colour chips in each illumin

effect. The colour mixture

our illumination system imp

main visible region colour Lthin, colour display implem

of UV and IR LED chips als

mentation of various kinds

communication application

Figure 1. Roll-to-roll processed OLED lighting elements.

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From lighting elements to functionalsystems

VTT Printed Intell igence also develops system integra-

tion of lighting elements on flexible plastic substrates

into smart packaging, general and automotive lighting

as well as signboards. The main objective is the devel-

opment of multifunctional plastic foils with high com-

pactness, a high degree of autonomy, overall integrationof several functionalities and reduced installation costs.

System performance, reliability and cost optimum will

be sought for the specified application requirements.

This will be done through hybrid integration of the best-

The work with embedded LED

in the FILAS Project, which wa

nancial support of Tekes the

Technology and Innovation. S

ment is being carried out in, fo

Project financed by the Europe

Figure 2. Flexible illumination d

(contains six 25 x 25 mm2blue

thickness of 300 m).



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The increasing importance of good usability in

electronics products is leading to a requirement

for new flexible, large-area user interfaces. The

development is also driven by ubiquitous intelli-

gence, which leads to a requirement for embed-

ded and visually appealing or non-disturbingUIs. Two new approaches are described here:

in-moulded optical touch screens and flexible,

wide-area-printed 3D user interfaces.

IntroductionThe importance of integrated user interfaces is growing

rapidly due to the increasing amount of embedded func-

tionality in consumer products. A clear trend can also beseen in the increasing size of user interfaces. A good ex-

ample of this is the wide adaptation of touch screens, e.g.,

in terminal devices. Printed electronics also offer an op-

portunity to implement large-area sensors cost-efficiently.

Two new user interfaces (optical touch screens and large

area sensors) have been introduced by VTT.

In-moulded optical touch screensKey benefits of in-moulded touch screen technology are

perfect transmissivity, due to the fact that no new layers

are introduced between the actual screen and the view-

er, and 3D formability, which allows the addition of touch

New user interfaces

Antti Kernen, Antti Kemppainen

Figure 1. Light attenuation i

Figure 2. Overmoulded tou

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tenuated when the screen surface is touched (Figure 1).

When several light sources and detectors are used as an

array, the signal attenuation can be localised, leading to

touch screen operation (Figure 2).

The new manufacturing method developed and patented

by VTT leads to a very cost-efficient, simple and robusttouch screen product. The manufacturing technology is

based on a flexible, roll-to-roll-printed wiring board on

which the components are attached using the pick-and-

place assembly process. The flexible component board

is then put into the injection moulding process. The in-

jection moulding forms the 3D mechanics of the prod-

uct (Figure 3).

Wide-area-printed, contactless userinterfaceRoll-to-roll printing can be used to produce capacitive

sensor structures in sizes exceeding the typical panel

Figure 3. Part of the overmoulded optical touch screen.

3D forms can be implemented in the moulding process,

even though touch components can be assembled in a

planar structure.

interactive posters. The senso

3D-formable and flexible integr

In addition to the printed sens

electronics card is required fo

processing. The electronics ca

and z co-ordinates to the applan embedded system.

AcknowledgementsThis work has been carried o

projects and was supported fi

Finnish Funding Agency for Te

This work has been conductewithin VTT. The main scientists

were Janne Aikio, Mikko Heikk

ti Korhonen, Mikko Koutonen,

saukko-Oja. Special acknowle

Figure 4. Non-contact user inte

controller.



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Flexible displays offer benefits of being light-

weight, robust and bendable and thereby unique

advantages over conventional display technol-

ogy. Before flexible displays enter the markets,

the ancillary electronics also need to be flexible.

This article gives an introduction to and an over-view of flexible electronic backplanes used to

control and drive flexible displays.

How do backplanes work?Flexible displays can be made using different technol-

ogies, such as liquid crystals, electrophoretics, elec-

trowetting and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

Regardless of the display technology, the electron-ic platform driving the display also needs to be flexible.

This electronic plat form, called the display backplane,

consists of a grid of transistors that switch the display

pixels on and off.

Benefits of using flexible substrates inmanufacturing

The market interest in flexible displays originates from theirproperties of being lightweight, thin, bendable and en-

during against mechanical impact. Compared with con-

ventional rigid glass substrates, the use of flexible sub-

strates gives freedom to backplane manufacturing tech-

Printed backplanes for fl exible displays

Kimmo Solehmainen, Henrik Sandberg, Antti Kemppainen

plays one of the fastest gr

tronics.

The future of large-backplanes for flex

The ease of applying printinnology to the realisation of t

display technology. As it ha

that OLEDs can be realised

nology, it would be logical

planes as well. A major cha

from the fact that OLEDs a

This sets stringent requirem

in terms of performance anno doubt that we will see l

for OLEDs in the future, b

large-area, roll-to-roll print

for some other display tech

Technological consElectrophoretic displays (

plays (LCDs) are driven by ier applications than OLED

backplanes. For portable e

flective LCD configurations

and good contrast. When

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devices and materials for organic transistors and display

backplanes are studied in the project. The major tech-

nological outcome will be enabled by applying nanoim-

print lithography when realising small transistor channel

lengths, resulting in a revolution in organic transistor per-formance. A further leap in transistor performance will re-

sult from the self-aligned transistor fabrication concept,

which accurately sets the critical patterns and layers on

top of each other.

Figure 1. An artistic rendering of VTTs vision of a flexible display based on solution processing

[2] Solehmainen, K. Printable

realisation of integrated c

Converging Electronics W

19-21 October 2010.

60 CONSTRUCTION AND ENERGY


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One potential application field for printed in-

telligence, especially sensors, is construction

and energy. The technological requirements in

these application fields differ significantly fron

those in disposable applications, such as the

consumer packaged goods arena. Long lifetimeand high performance are required, and there-

fore, relatively mature and proven technolo-

gies tend to dominate in these capital-intensive

fields. However, there are increasing demands

for new ubiquitous sensing technologies, e.g.

for structural health and safety monitoring in the

built environment. Printed electronics can offer

new technologies suitable for large-area, highlyintegrated, cost-effective sensing applications.

Due to the requirements of hybrid systems in

this application space, the most feasible option

is to use the benefits of both printed and mature

silicon-based electronics for this topic

Introduction

In industrial applications, increasing automation of proc-esses and systems leads to ever-greater demands for

measurements. These measurements can be crucial to

extending the lifetime, reducing the maintenance costs

and increasing the safety of an industrial product. All

sustainable solutions. The

for, e.g., automatic contro

and lighting.

These mentioned demand

direction of ubiquitous (or ing a very high integratio

products and systems. P

cost-efficient, highly integ

technologies.

Benefits of printedPrinted intelligence offers

can enable new sensing soespecially:

High throughout, wide

and roll-to-roll process

able to produce sens

for large surfaces. Th

monitoring industrial c

buildings.

Drivers of printed intelligence adoption in tconstruction and energy sectors, and theand home environments

Antti Kemppainen

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Figure 2. Large-area-printed strain gauge sensors are suitable for, e.g., windmill wings (photo:

62 CONSTRUCTION AND ENERGY


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In other words, the strain gauge sensor matrix can

be used to measure a bending or distortion profile of

a large structure such as roof beams, masts of sailing

boats, windmill wings, etc. (Figure 2). Alternatively, large

sensors can be used for integrated entrance monitor-

ing in floor carpets or as safety switches in industry (lo-

cating people in hazardous zones). Printed strain gaugesensors can be manufactured to be compatible with

most of the existing wired or wireless measurement in-

frastructure.

Figure 4. Picture collage of an intelligent couch in SuomiSoffas display at the Ageing Servi

needs to be integrated int

enic or architectural reaso

interfaces can be embed

er materials.

Similar technologies can a

behaviour. Figure 4 showsat the Finnish Ageing Ser

are able to detect moveme

Applications can be built f

elderly.

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64 MATERIALS AND PROCESSES


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Materials, printing processes and the compo-

nents they enable are the basis for new print-

ed intelligence. Two core strengths of VTT are

the extensive knowledge and experience of its

staff of material process interfaces and its ex-

tensive research and pilot production facilitiesfor printed intelligence. Activities and invest-

ments in these have continued to be strong.

The following extended abstracts highl ight work car-

ried out at VTT in materials and processes with poten-

tial for a wide range of end applications. These and oth-

er related efforts are all designed to take printed intelli-

gence out of the lab and make volume production a re-ality for companies actively developing or looking to de-

ploy printed intelligence technologies in end products.

Expanding the application space withnew materials and processes

As was shown in previous sections of this report, roll -

to-roll printing and coating of novel printed

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