TNO at Holst Centre Taking Significant Steps Toward Enabling 3D Printing for Electronics
July 30, 2020 | TNOEstimated reading time: 1 minute
3D printed electronics is currently in the early stages of development and an emerging technology at the intersection of 3D printing and printed electronics. TNO at Holst Centre has created several proof-of-concept demonstrators in collaboration with partners like Signify, Bosch and Neotech in the Hyb-Man consortium.
This European consortium has developed and implemented methods to apply 3D printing to electronic products and consists of partners from every link in the value chain. Hyb-Man aims for complete, first-time-right processes that reduce waste and enable personalisation. The result? A significant step towards the design and manufacturing of customised electronics.
3D Printed Electronics
3D printed electronics combines structural and electronic manufacturing into a single step. The electronic circuits are created using printed electronics technologies as part of the 3D printing production process, embedding them directly into structural components. In designing products, there is no longer a need for separate circuit boards or electronics layers, giving complete design freedom and inherent protection from dust and dirt.
The approach is particularly cost effective for small volume production ('long tail') and helps to reduce lead times. It also minimizes waste and streamlines system integration.
Promising application areas include:
- Customized, lightweight smart wearables for the medical industry, the defence sector and consumers
- Small-series semiconductor packaging
- Free-form antennas for automotive, communications and defence
Partnerships
TNO at Holst Centre’s role in the Hyb-Man project was the development of 3D printed electronics process and the manufacturing of demonstrators. Holst Centre wants to continue to explore the potential of this promising technology and are keen to hear from potential partners to help shape the technology roadmap.
Suggested Items
ZESTRON Academy Launches 2024 Advanced Packaging & Power Electronics Webinar Series
05/01/2024 | ZESTRONZESTRON, the leading global provider of high-precision cleaning products, services, and training solutions in the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor industries, proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated webinar series on Advanced Packaging & Power Electronics, a webinar series on the latest innovations, cleaning, and corrosion challenges.
NextFlex Convenes the Hybrid Electronics Community at Binghamton University
05/01/2024 | NextFlexBinghamton University hosted the NextFlex hybrid electronics community on April 18 for a day of expert presentations, breakout sessions on technology and manufacturing topics, and networking.
HQ NextPCB of HQ Electronics Debut on the International Stage for Electronics Manufacture at IPC APEX 2024
05/01/2024 | PRNewswireHQ NextPCB of HQ Electronics, a leading Chinese-based multilayer PCB manufacturer and assembly house showcased its industrial prowess on the international stage for the first time at the IPC APEX Expo 2024.
GPV’s Q1 2024 Interim Financial Report Shows Strong Navigation in Uncertain Times
05/01/2024 | GPVDanish-based GPV recorded an expected drop in sales to DKK 2.3 billion for the first quarter of 2024. The decline also affected the operating profit, which was DKK 155 million compared to DKK 179 million in the same quarter last year, although the EBITDA margin was maintained. In general, demand has been softer in 2024, but GPV continues to invest for the long-term and expects the trend to turn in the second half of 2024.
All-Inclusive: PRIDE Industries Helps Employees With Disabilities to Succeed
05/01/2024 | Sandy Gentry, IPCPRIDE Industries is the leading employer of people with disabilities and those with other barriers to employment in the United States, including veterans and former foster youth. The company offers job training, placement, on-the-job coaching, and skills development for independent living. It has held IPC membership since 2000. Read more about this unique business and its connection to the electronics manufacturing industry.