Before quantum dots, displays on consumer technologies like TVs primarily fell into two categories: plasma or LCD. Plasma displays use tiny gas-filled cells that emit ultraviolet light to excite phosphors, producing vibrant colors but consuming a lot of power and suffering from a problem known as screen burn-in. LCDs (liquid crystal displays), on the other hand, use a backlight (usually CCFL, later replaced by LEDs) to shine through liquid crystals and color filters. This technology offers better efficiency than plasma but weaker contrast and color accuracy.Since their development in the 1990s and more recent widespread adoption, <a href="https://xtpl.com/quantum-dots-the-future-of-display-technology/">quantum dots</a> have changed the landscape of electronics displays, enhancing the color precision and brightness of LCDs. But what are quantum dots exactly? In short, they can be described as nanoscale semiconductor crystals that emit pure, tunable light when excited by energy. In QD-LCDs, a quantum dot layer converts blue LED backlight into pure red and green wavelengths, significantly expanding the color gamut compared to traditional LCDs. The result? Richer, more lifelike colors with minimal energy usage.Newer QD-OLED technology can eliminate the need for color filters and backlights altogether, using self-emissive pixels (display pixels that generate their own light without needing a backlight) for even greater contrast and efficiency. Today, quantum dots enable displays to achieve near-<a href="https://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-BT.2020/">Rec. 2020 color accuracy</a>, making them ideal for high-end TVs and monitors.<h2>Overcoming Challenges in Quantum Dot Display Production</h2>Quantum dot displays are changing the way engineers approach electronics. However, these displays remain difficult to produce. For instance, contact printing, where a patterned stamp transfers quantum dots onto a substrate, struggles with achieving consistent dot size and spacing, and the mechanical contact can lead to defects such as smudging or uneven deposition. Additionally, it can be difficult to control the thickness and distribution of quantum dot layers at a nanoscale, which can lead to color inconsistencies.Phase separation, which relies on self-assembly during solvent evaporation, faces its own challenges. While it offers a potential low-cost route, it can also struggle to achieve precisely arranged quantum dots with the right spacing and density. It is also sensitive to environmental factors like temperature and humidity, which makes it hard to maintain consistency across large display panels. Furthermore, phase separation can result in aggregation or clustering of quantum dots, causing color artifacts.Challenges in quantum dot display production have led engineers and researchers to experiment with other techniques such as nanolithography, or with highly novel processes such as XTPL’s Ultra-Precise Dispensing (UPD) technology, which enables high-resolution printing of quantum dots on various substrates and topologies. Using an ultra-precise nozzle, UPD deposits quantum dots in controlled patterns with submicron accuracy. This method allows for direct printing on flexible, rigid, or uneven surfaces, eliminating complex photolithography steps. UPD ensures uniform dot placement, improving color accuracy and efficiency in quantum dot displays while maintaining scalability for cost-effective production. One company to have successfully deployed XTPL’s technology is QustomDot, which was able to use UPD and its own custom quantum dot inks to fill microcavities.[1]<h2>Real-World Applications and the Future of Quantum Dot Displays</h2>Quantum dot displays have become mainstream in high-end TVs, monitors, and mobile devices. Major brands like Samsung have invested heavily in <a href="https://www.samsungdisplay.com/eng/tech/quantum-dot.jsp">QD-OLED technology</a>, offering brighter screens, wider color gamuts, and better energy efficiency compared to traditional LCDs. But the technology can also be deployed in other areas like AR/VR headsets and photomedical devices.[2]XTPL’s <a href="https://xtpl.com/ultra-precise-dispensing/">Ultra-Precise Dispensing (UPD) technology</a> enables high-resolution printing of quantum dots on diverse substrates, including flexible and uneven surfaces (thanks to its ability to accurately print highly viscous inks). This breakthrough opens up new possibilities in another highly interesting application of the technology: flexible or wearable electronics, where traditional manufacturing methods often struggle with adaptability and cost.UPD allows quantum dots to be deposited with submicron precision, ensuring uniform color accuracy and high efficiency in flexible displays. Unlike photolithography, which is complex and expensive, UPD directly prints quantum dots onto materials like plastic films or stretchable substrates, making it ideal for bendable, rollable, and wearable screens. This could pave the way for next-generation smartwatches, foldable devices, and even electronic textiles—products that demand high-resolution color performance while also being lightweight and durable.By offering a scalable and highly adaptable printing method, UPD from XTPL accelerates the development of energy-efficient, vibrant, and flexible quantum dot displays, pushing the boundaries of wearable and next-generation consumer electronics.<hr /><h2 id="isPasted">Resources</h2>[1] Mohammad K, Igor N, Willem W. <a href="https://cir.nii.ac.jp/crid/1390581766256198912">InP-based Quantum Dot Solutions for Efficient and Reliable Color Conversion in MicroLED Applications</a>. InProceedings of the International Display Workshops 2023 Dec 6 (p. 918).[2] Chen H, Yeh TH, He J, Zhang C, Abbel R, Hamblin MR, Huang Y, Lanzafame RJ, Stadler I, Celli J, Liu SW. <a href="https://sid.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jsid.650">Flexible quantum dot light‐emitting devices for targeted photomedical applications</a>. Journal of the Society for Information Display. 2018 May;26(5):296-303.

Quantum dot displays have replaced their dim and energy-intensive predecessors on high-end televisions, but they can also be deployed for futuristic wearable electronics and much more

How Printed Quantum Dots Are Revolutionizing Color and Efficiency in Display Technology

In the modern era of sport, results are often decided by ultra-fine margins like milliseconds or millimeters. Yet even precise metrics such as speed and distance are still quite rudimentary in nature. The real wins for athletes, coaches, and sporting teams are gained through a much deeper understanding of sports performance and potential improvement. To achieve these goals and help obtain a competitive advantage, the latest performance tracking solutions lean on the power of wireless connectivity and edge processing. <h2>Monitoring unique performance metrics in sport </h2>Combining dozens of datapoints makes it possible to build a unique profile of an individual’s abilities. Examples in each sport might include the athlete’s body movement during key actions, or the position, launch angle, spin rate, and acceleration rate of the bat or ball at various game stages. For individual sports like athletics and cycling, key metrics might focus on biomechanical efficiency and technical precision. For team sports including the various football codes, common metrics include sprints, accelerations, decelerations, and workload intensity.  <h2>Bluetooth LE turns raw data into powerful insights </h2>Sports tracking solutions based on wireless tech make these and other powerful metrics readily available, in turn helping sports industry stakeholders achieve more nuanced insights. Tools like inertial sensors, anchor devices, and location services form systems that measure sports parameters in near real time. The high volume of raw data generated can be processed and analyzed using algorithms running on the sensor or wearable’s integrated wireless device before the information is forwarded—using low latency wireless connectivity such as <a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Bluetooth-Low-Energy">Bluetooth LE</a>—to an accompanying app on the user’s smartphone or a web-based dashboard on their laptop. <h2>Ball and athlete tracking technology in action </h2>Ball tracking technology, for example, delivers data on the trajectory, spin, and bounce of the ball, helping to measure the quality and accuracy of passes and shots, or evaluate defensive and offensive positioning. Athlete tracking technology, meanwhile, provides insights on the precise position, movement, and activity of the players themselves to help measure their performance, fitness, workload, and tactical decision-making. Moreover, wearable tech attached to the wrist, chest, or other parts of the body enables a much deeper dive into data, potentially revealing key information about an athlete’s heart rate variability (HRV), VO2 max, muscle fatigue, lactic acid, power output, and other important physical parameters. Such insights can provide a better understanding of athletic training, recovery, and injury prevention. <h2>A Nordic Bluetooth LE soccer tracking solution </h2>One prominent example of wireless sports technology in action is the Nordic-powered Apex Series, used by a host of major international sporting organizations including English Premier League football clubs.  Embedded in a custom lightweight vest worn by the athlete, STATSports’ <a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2018/11/STATSports-APEX-device-employs-nRF52840-to-wirelessly-sync-comprehensive-sports-specific-metrics">Apex</a> employs Bluetooth LE connectivity to wirelessly sync sports-specific metrics to smartphones and tablets for coaches to make informed decisions during a match or training session. The device integrates a range of sensors including a high impact accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and augmented GNSS. These sensors provide comprehensive data including heart rate, total distance covered, current and maximum speed, number of sprints, accelerations, impacts, dynamic stress load, and step balance.  <h2>Edge AI for predictive modeling </h2>But the ultimate game-changer in the sports sector comes in the form of predictive modeling and data-driven analytics performed at the edge. When relevant data is not only crunched but analyzed and interpreted using the power of ‘<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Technologies/Edge-AI">Edge AI</a>’ algorithms, sports analysts can take advantage of even more precise and personalized insights. Adding AI and Machine Learning (ML) to the mix allows, for example, a sports wearable with the same sensors as before to now continuously monitor several performance parameters simultaneously, uncovering meaningful patterns that were previously hidden. By analyzing both historical data and real-time sensor information, statistical models can pinpoint factors that have a major impact on the way athletes prepare and perform, not to mention identify opposition strategies and gauge overall team dynamics. <h2>nRF54 Series SoCs enable the future of sports analytics devices </h2>Behind every breakthrough in next-generation sports tracking is hardware built to handle extreme demands. The fourth-generation wireless SoCs from Nordic Semiconductor, the nRF54 Series, deliver exactly that – combining unmatched processing power, ultra-low power consumption, and advanced on-chip AI capabilities.  To make sense of all the available sensor data in context and quickly enough to enable rapid and effective decision-making, powerful integrated wireless SoCs such as the nRF54L Series provide the serious processing heft to perform the ML and sensor fusion that forms part of Edge AI. By running Edge AI using a Nordic Semiconductor nRF54 Series SoC, for example, the local processing will use less power than sending data over the air, allowing a sports analytics device to have longer operation and smaller battery size.  The result is sophisticated sports analytics solutions that are changing the game.

In the modern era of sport, results are often decided by ultra-fine margins like milliseconds or millimeters. Yet even precise metrics such as speed and distance are still quite rudimentary in nature.

How next-gen wearables and Edge AI improve sports performance analytics

The adoption of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses hinges on the ability of display technology to deliver true immersion. Achieving lifelike visuals requires displays with high resolution, vibrant color reproduction, and optimal power efficiency – all within the constraints of compact, wearable devices. While traditional display technologies have propelled AR smart glasses advancements, they present inherent trade-offs. For example, other type projections struggle with maintaining brightness and color uniformity in outdoor environments, or they require bulky optics that limit form factor miniaturization.TDK’s Full-Color Laser Modules (FCLM) introduce a paradigm shift in AR smart glasses display technology. Engineered for ultra-compact integration, these laser modules use Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) technology to mix red, green, and blue (RGB) laser light into a single full-spectrum beam without the need for complex optical components, like half mirrors and lenses. This innovation enables industry-leading miniaturization and achieves high brightness and superior power efficiency compared to conventional displays.A key breakthrough enabled by TDK’s laser modules is Direct Retinal Projection (DRP)—a cutting-edge approach that projects images directly onto the retina. DRP eliminates the need for screens and creates a natural depth effect that enhances clarity and reduces visual discomfort. By integrating TDK’s compact laser modules, AR smart glasses and headsets can achieve an unprecedented balance of performance, efficiency, and user comfort, setting a new benchmark for next-generation immersive experiences.<h2>Technical Foundation of TDK's Full-Color Laser Modules</h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1742991683979-ES2014_09.JPG" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Picture of Full color laser module.<h3 id="isPasted">Core Design and Miniaturization</h3>TDK’s FCLM sets an unprecedented new standard in display miniaturization. Measuring just 10.8 x 5.5 x 2.7 mm and weighing only 0.35 g, these modules are designed to fit within the ultra-compact form factors required for AR smart glasses and head-mounted displays. Such miniaturization is necessary to find the right balance between high performance and lightweight, ergonomic wearability.Whereas traditional spatial optical modules rely on bulkier optics with multiple alignment points, TDK’s FCLM employs PIC technology. This innovation unlocks the precise merging of RGB laser light (638 nm red, 520 nm green, 455 nm blue) within a photonic waveguide to eliminate the need for mirrors or lenses. As a result, TDK’s module achieves a 10X reduction in size while maintaining high optical efficiency.Beyond its compact footprint, TDK’s proprietary Active-Alignment Assembly Technology accelerates production for a 150X improvement in assembly speed over conventional methods. With such an efficiency leap, manufacturers can achieve increased throughput and scalability for high-volume AR smart glasses hardware production. <h3 id="isPasted">Optical Characteristics &amp; Performance</h3>Central to TDK’s FCLM is a precisely engineered RGB laser system that delivers unmatched color accuracy and brightness. The module operates with red (638 nm), green (520 nm), and blue (455 nm) lasers, merging these wavelengths into a full-spectrum display for vibrant, high-contrast visuals with a wide color gamut that surpasses traditional AR smart glasses displays in fidelity and intensity.One of the defining advantages of TDK’s laser display technology is its exceptional power efficiency. conventional display technologies require high energy consumption to maintain brightness, but laser-based projection systems only emit light where needed, reducing overall power draw. The result is significantly lower energy consumption and extended battery life in compact AR smart glasses.In terms of resolution, TDK’s current modules support 1920x1080 (1080p) at 60 frames per second (fps) for fluid motion and clear, sharp images. The underlying technology, however, is scalable to 4K+ resolutions, paving the way for next-generation AR smart glasses experiences with ultra-high-definition visuals. <h3>Direct Retinal Projection (DRP): The Game-Changer</h3>Direct Retinal Projection fundamentally redefines how images are delivered in AR smart glasses systems. Instead of projecting visuals onto a traditional display panel, DRP beams light directly onto the user’s retina to create images that appear naturally integrated into their field of view. This method eliminates the need for bulky microdisplays and instead allows for ultra-lightweight, compact AR smart glasses that still deliver a sharp, high-contrast visual experience.A major advantage of DRP is its ability to resolve the Vergence-Accommodation Conflict (VAC), thanks to the great features of focus-free. VAC is a persistent issue in conventional AR smart glasses where the eyes struggle to focus simultaneously on both virtual and real-world elements. By projecting images that naturally align with the user’s depth perception, DRP reduces eye strain and fatigue and makes extended AR smart glasses use far more comfortable.Compared to conventional displays, which rely on screens and complex optics to display images, DRP eliminates distortion and significantly enhances clarity. Additionally, DRP achieves superior brightness without excessive power consumption so that virtual elements are more visible in a wider range of lighting conditions, including outdoor environments.<h2 id="isPasted">Other Advances: LiNbO₃ and Advanced Laser Modulation</h2><h3>Precision Alignment and Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) </h3>One of the most complex challenges in laser-based AR smart glasses displays is the precise alignment of RGB laser beams. In traditional projection systems, aligning red, green, and blue lasers into a single, stable beam requires bulky optical components such as lenses and mirrors. Any misalignment results in color fringing, reduced image clarity, and optical inefficiencies that make high-quality image projection difficult to achieve in a compact form factor.TDK overcomes this challenge with its Active-Alignment Assembly Technology, which achieves sub-micron accuracy in optical alignment. This process ensures that each laser beam is perfectly merged at the microscopic level, enhancing color fidelity and reducing image distortion. Whereas conventional approaches rely on manual adjustments, TDK’s precision alignment process is automated and optimized for high-speed, large-scale production.Further improving performance, TDK integrates Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) into its FCLM. These circuits eliminate the need for traditional optical alignment components by routing laser light through compact waveguides on a chip. This reduces the size of the module and enhances long-term optical stability for consistently sharp and vibrant image projection with minimal power consumption.<h3>LiNbO₃ (Lithium Niobate) for Fast Optical Modulation </h3>TDK is pioneering the use of sputtered LiNbO₃ (Lithium Niobate) thin films to advance visible light modulation, a breakthrough that significantly enhances AR smart glasses display performance. Unlike conventional bulk LiNbO₃, TDK’s sputtered thin-film technology enables compact, mass-producible optical modulators that deliver ultra-fast response times and higher-resolution imaging.A major advantage of LiNbO₃ is voltage-controlled color tuning, which replaces traditional high-energy laser diode modulation. This feature reduces power consumption while improving modulation efficiency and allows for precise and rapid color adjustments. By integrating LiNbO₃-based photonic chips, TDK’s laser modules offer enhanced clarity, faster refresh rates, and superior energy efficiency compared to conventional technologies.<h2>Future Developments &amp; Industry Impact</h2>Looking to the future, there is still much room for growth in the field of AR smart glasses display technology.<h3 id="isPasted">Scaling Resolution Towards 4K &amp; Beyond</h3>TDK continues to push the boundaries of laser-based display resolution by developing next-generation high-density laser projection systems for ultra-HD AR smart glasses experiences. TDK is pioneering the use of LiNbO3 PIC chips for laser projection applications while maintaining compact form factors. These advancements will enable 4K+ resolution displays that significantly improve realism and visual clarity in AR smart glasses environments.<h3>Reducing Power Consumption for Extended Wearability</h3>Power efficiency remains a limiting factor for AR smart glasses wearables. LiNbO3 -PIC enables to realize power consumption for laser projection. This can lead to thermal energy utilization, to prolong battery life and enhance the practicality of all-day AR smart glasses wearability.<h3>TDK in AR Smart Glasses Evolution</h3>Future applications may expand into AI-driven holographic displays and spatial computing, where TDK’s precision laser modulation will help create interactive, real-time augmented environments.<h2 id="isPasted">Conclusion</h2>TDK’s FCLM represents a major advancement in AR smart glasses display technology that delivers unparalleled brightness, resolution, and power efficiency in an ultra-compact form factor. By integrating PIC technology, TDK has eliminated bulky optical components while enhancing display clarity and energy efficiency to set a new standard for AR smart glasses wearables. Meanwhile, TDK’s DRP is a major breakthrough that eliminates the need for physical screens and resolves the Vergence-Accommodation Conflict that has long plagued AR SMART GLASSES users.  Looking ahead, laser-based AR smart glasses displays are poised for widespread adoption. TDK’s continued advancements in higer resolution like 4K or beyond, and realization of lower power consumption by adopting LiNbO3 PIC technology will further enhance AR smart glasses realism. As industry adoption grows, TDK’s laser modules will help drive the next wave of AI-driven holographic displays and spatial computing and unlock new possibilities for enterprise, consumer, and industrial applications. The future of AR smart glasses is being built on laser precision, and TDK is leading the way.Read more about TDK’s vision of the Future of AR Glasses: <a href="https://www.tdk.com/en/featured_stories/entry_069-ar-glasses-solutions.html">Envisioning the Future of AR Glasses Through TDK’s Augmented Reality Solutions | TDK</a>.

TDK’s Full-Color Laser Modules (FCLM) introduce a paradigm shift in AR smart glasses display technology.

Advancing AR Smart Glasses Realism: TDK's Full-Color Laser Modules Unleashed

Xenoma Inc., also known as "Xenoma," won the top award at "KUMIHIMO Tech Camp with Murata" in FY2023. KUMIHIMO is a co-creation project that seeks ideas using Murata's hardware and aims to turn them into reality together with Murata Manufacturing. The theme for Xenoma's entry was a smart apparel item called a wearable phono-electrocardiograph. Murata spoke with Mr. Amimori, Xenoma's Co-Founder and CEO, about how his company came up with the idea, its encounter with Murata, the background to entering KUMIHIMO, its collaboration with Murata, and other matters.<h2 id="isPasted">What Is Xenoma?</h2>Murata:&nbsp;Please tell us the background to Xenoma's establishment, your internal structure, and the products you have so far developed and sold.Mr. Amimori: Xenoma was established as a spin-off from the University of Tokyo and JST ERATO Someya Bio-Harmonized Electronics Project in November 2015. We have developed and commercialized a number of products based on that project's stretchable electronics technology. Those products include the "e-skin ECG" smart apparel item that is comfortable to wear and that allows patients to obtain electrocardiograms by attaching and detaching it themselves; "e-skin MEVA" that simply realizes high-precision motion capture; and the "e-skin EMStyle" EMS training wear item that optimizes fitness by electrically stimulating the muscles. Of these products, e-skin ECG realizes electrocardiogram testing for 24 hours at home by Xenoma mailing it to the patient's home and the patient then returning it to Xenoma after the test.Our employees include hardware electronic circuit engineers; software engineers who create smartphone apps and who build servers; product designers who make the cases; and mechanical designers who are in charge of the mechanism design. Furthermore, clinical laboratory technicians and other specialists in the medical field participate as staff.<h2 id="isPasted">Thoughts on Winning the Top Award at KUMIHIMO</h2>Murata: Congratulations on winning the top award at KUMIHIMO. Can you please give your comments as Xenoma on your motivation for entering KUMIHIMO, your thoughts on winning the top award, and the reason for that?Mr. Amimori: We did not come up with the wearable phono-electrocardiograph to enter KUMIHIMO; rather, it was a project we had in mind to undertake originally. We felt that the sensor presented at KUMIHIMO was essential to our project, so we entered the contest. We were extremely honored to win the top award despite those circumstances. We plan to use the award money to purchase the equipment to promote the development of the wearable phono-electrocardiograph. We also feel that this opportunity will lead to the further development of our connections.This was a project we had long envisioned. Therefore, we had completed the specifications of the product we would develop and the image of the process for commercializing it. In other words, it was not a project for entering KUMIHIMO; rather, it was a project that we had thoroughly considered developing and commercializing ourselves. I think that is why we won the award.<h2 id="isPasted">Development of the Wearable Phono-electrocardiograph</h2>Murata: Please tell us what led you to work on developing the wearable phono-electrocardiograph, the background and reasons to choosing Murata's acoustic sensors, and the current status of your collaboration with Murata.Mr. Amimori:&nbsp;The wearable phono-electrocardiograph is a garment that incorporates an electrocardiograph and a phonocardiograph. You can obtain both electrocardiogram and phonocardiogram data just by wearing this garment. It is possible to take an electrocardiogram and phonocardiogram at home after a medical examination. As the garment allows you to take the test at home, it is possible to increase the test frequency. Accordingly, we believe it is the perfect testing tool for preventing cardiovascular diseases.There are two main categories of cardiovascular disease: arrhythmia and ischemia. In general, these diseases are diagnosed separately using a Holter electrocardiogram test for arrhythmia and an echocardiographic test for ischemia. However, in fact, the rate of detection is higher when testing for both these diseases at the same time. Accordingly, we wondered whether it would be possible to test for both arrhythmia and ischemia at once by equipping a sensor capable of detecting heart sounds to the e-skin ECG for electrocardiogram tests that we have already commercialized.<h2 id="isPasted">Encounter with Murata's Acoustic Sensors</h2>Murata: Please tell us about what led you to come up with the idea to use an acoustic sensor in the wearable phono-electrocardiograph and its prospects for the future.We have a long history of exchanging information in the field of electronic components with Murata. We considered adopting a highly sensitive and thin sensor capable of detecting pressing force at first for the wearable phono-electrocardiograph. However, we had the opportunity to speak with those from Murata at CEATEC* held in October 2023, and were told that acoustic sensors may be more suitable, and that this was the theme sought for KUMIHIMO. That led us to enter KUMIHIMO.*CEATEC is an exhibition where electronics- and IT-related organizations and companies participate to present cutting-edge products and technologies.We have already received the acoustic sensors since winning the award. We have realized the technology up to the point where we can incorporate phonocardiograms into a PC wirelessly or via a cable. The acoustic sensor collects data on sounds (heart sound data) transmitted through the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure it is possible for anyone to collect heart sound data accurately in the future. We have set a target of first making it so that healthy individuals can collect accurate heart sound data within the year.<h2 id="isPasted">Collaboration with Murata</h2>Murata: You have experience collaborating with many companies of different fields, cultures, and scales, and giving presentations in collaborative projects. Please tell us about the differences with those companies and Murata and KUMIHIMO.Mr. Amimori: We have had a relationship with Murata for four to five years already. We have continued to exchange information with Murata during that time. In particular, Murata's advice on the usage methods and functions of sensors that we are not involved with has been extremely helpful. In fact, there are few companies like this. I feel that this is because Murata respects Xenoma. Furthermore, points such as the fact the person in charge from when our relationship started is still involved with us give us a great sense of security in communication.Something I learned about for the first time is that I feel Murata has a culture that enables a wide range of technical assets to be openly used. That was extremely interesting. For example, sensor circuit information is necessary when connecting the provided sensors to Xenoma's system to retrieve signals. There are many cases in which other companies do not provide detailed sensor circuit specifications. In such cases, Xenoma will also make the interface parts. However, this means it is difficult to achieve optimal functionality. In that respect, Murata proactively provides us with prototypes and technical information. As a result, we can develop products with higher functionality and greater convenience because we know the details of the sensor circuits. I think this is a very attractive point in our collaboration with Murata.We have no concerns about Murata Manufacturing's technical capabilities. In addition, Murata has been closely communicating with us so far. Therefore, we also have no anxiety of being left to do everything ourselves, as is common with large companies. This project involves development. Accordingly, we may ask for improvements to be made in terms of performance. Nevertheless, I feel we can move forward together as long as that is within the scope of what is realistically possible.<h2>Final thoughts</h2>Xenoma's business ranges from areas of expertise in medicine including electrocardiograms and phonocardiograms to involvement in skeletal and muscular functions such as motion capture and EMS training. Xenoma encountered Murata's acoustic sensors and won the top award at KUMIHIMO. This symbolizes the medicine-engineering collaboration in which Xenoma works on smart apparel and Murata provides the technology such as the hardware. It is not just a medicine-engineering collaboration though; we are joining forces in terms of the knowledge and technologies in our respective fields. This is the appeal of KUMIHIMO. I feel this is also the reason why Xenoma won the top award at KUMIHIMO.Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___https://xenoma.com/en/___.ZXV3MjpwdWJsaXRlazpjOmc6YTYzODA4ZWRjYjk1NGY0MWEwMTYzYmQ3M2VkYTA3NGQ6Nzo5YWUyOmY5YjNmYjBmOGRhNWJmMTAyMTIxNGNjYWZiMzhlMDI2MzY5MmI1MGYzNjU1MzdiOTEwMTMwZWI4NDk5MWNmMTg6aDpUOkY" title="Protected by Check Point: https://xenoma.com/en/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___https://xenoma.com/en/___.ZXV3MjpwdWJsaXRlazpjOmc6YTYzODA4ZWRjYjk1NGY0MWEwMTYzYmQ3M2VkYTA3NGQ6Nzo5YWUyOmY5YjNmYjBmOGRhNWJmMTAyMTIxNGNjYWZiMzhlMDI2MzY5MmI1MGYzNjU1MzdiOTEwMTMwZWI4NDk5MWNmMTg6aDpUOkY&source=gmail&ust=1737197445904000&usg=AOvVaw1bKZp26gxs1h_pDDVu-W2p" id="isPasted">Xenoma Inc. | Smart Apparel Company</a>

KUMIHIMO is a co-creation project focused on sourcing innovative ideas that utilize Murata's hardware. Xenoma's award-winning entry in this initiative was a smart apparel piece termed a "wearable phono-electrocardiograph."

Taking on the Challenge of Preventive Medicine through Co-creation with Acoustic Sensors

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) an estimated 1.28 billion adults between the ages of 30 to 79 suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), a major cause of premature death worldwide[1]. The WHO has set a target to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 33 percent by 2030.The only way to detect high blood pressure&nbsp;(BP)&nbsp;is to&nbsp;regularly&nbsp;measure it, and as&nbsp;such&nbsp;many people&nbsp;don’t&nbsp;know they have it&nbsp;until a serious&nbsp;medical&nbsp;event&nbsp;occurs.&nbsp;Advanced wearable devices&nbsp;enable the wearer to track their&nbsp;BP&nbsp;around the clock, without&nbsp;having to attend their health professional or grapple with a clunky&nbsp;home&nbsp;BP&nbsp;monitor.&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>Managing hypertension in the wireless age</h2>Today, the technology available to space- and resource-constrained devices means accurate and reliable BP readings are possible from both wrist- and finger-worn wearable devices, as well as a host of other cardiovascular health markers such as the wearer’s V02&nbsp;max, blood oxygen saturation (Sp02), temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and sleep data.&nbsp;&nbsp;As well as enabling proactive intervention, today’s wearables can also support Machine Learning (ML) and sensor fusion at the edge. ML has a role to play in measuring hypertension because it can scan through swathes of data to identify the multitude of factors that influence a person’s BP. It can then help develop algorithms that continue to refine the accuracy of wearables to not only identify hypertension, but also potential causes, such as inactivity or sleep apnea. &nbsp;&nbsp;Sensor fusion, meanwhile, enables a device to combine different data streams from multiple sensors, eliminating ‘noise’ and determining which data points from which sensors correspond to the same health concern, and which do not. This data is not only valuable to individuals, but also their clinicians who can then monitor their patients remotely and take remedial action as required.&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>ML and sensor fusion at the edge</h2>To provide ML and sensor fusion at the edge, simultaneously undertaking a lot of heavy computational work, ensuring security of sensitive health data, and supervising reliable wireless connectivity, today’s advanced health wearable developers are demanding near miracles from the wireless SoCs that power their devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;For wearables weight and form factor are also key considerations because they are designed to be worn comfortably, if not imperceptibly, 24/7. That means the SoCs that power them must pack a lot of hardware—an MCU, radio, memory, security features—into a package that in the case of a smart ring might measure no more than 8 mm by 3 mm. These space constraints also immediately limit the size, weight, and capacity of the battery that can be used in the wearable. As a result, power consumption is always a critical design consideration, and the SoC used needs to be optimized for ultra-low power consumption. No one wants to have to recharge their wearable every night.<h2>Nordic's next gen wireless SoCs&nbsp;power advanced wearables&nbsp;</h2>Chipmakers&nbsp;have responded to the strict size constraints of today’s wearables by releasing ever more powerful SoCs in smaller packages. Nordic Semiconductor, for example, recently launched its <a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Bluetooth-Low-Energy?lang=en#infotabs" rel="noopener">nRF54L Series</a> that offers an ultra-compact 2.4 by 2.2 mm WLCSP variant 50 percent smaller than its comparable predecessor, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF52840">nRF52840 SoC</a>, while at the same time doubling the processing power, tripling the processing efficiency, and lowering the power consumption.&nbsp;Within the series, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF54L15">nRF54L15</a>&nbsp;offers the largest memory capacity with 1.5 MB non-volatile memory (NVM) and 256 KB RAM, ideal for demanding applications, including BP monitoring wearables. In addition to expanded memory, the nRF54L Series integrates a low-power RISC-V coprocessor, supporting advanced application requirements without additional external components, reducing BOM costs, and again enabling compact designs.  &nbsp; <h2>Advanced security by design&nbsp;in the nRF54L Series</h2>And with&nbsp;consumers&nbsp;ever&nbsp;vigilant about protecting their&nbsp;sensitive personal data,&nbsp;the nRF54L Series&nbsp;prioritizes&nbsp;security by design, integrating features such as Arm&nbsp;TrustZone&nbsp;isolation, tamper sensors, and hardened cryptographic accelerators to fulfill essential-to-advanced security requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp; Of course to tackle the global hypertension epidemic will require more than just smart wearables, but nonetheless they’ll have a powerful role to play. The latest guidelines from the American Heart Association highlight their role in hypertension diagnosis and management.&nbsp;The next important question will be how best to incorporate the new technologies into clinical practice for both physicians and patients. Work is ongoing, but current and future developments from chipmakers and developers should help ensure wearable technologies become increasingly user-friendly, reliable, accurate, and flexible, and ultimately helping prevent cardiovascular events brought on by hypertension.&nbsp;<hr>References:1. World Health Organization Hypertension Fact Sheet. WHO, December 2024.&nbsp;

Advanced wearable devices enable the wearer to track their BP around the clock, without having to attend their health professional or grapple with a clunky home BP monitor. 

Nordic's powerful next gen SoCs tackle global hypertension epidemic

Motion Capture Accelerates Uganda’s Game Development IndustryA tale that has evolved since 2004, Sunjata is the project that will take the Ugandan video game industry – and then the world – by storm. But first, the small team at Klan Of The Kings needed the tools to bring their vision to life.&nbsp;Comic artist and African folklore lover, Ronald Kayima, had a sizeable task in front of him when transforming his story into a video game. Sunjata immerses players in a world of African mythology, ancient tales, and stunning visuals, designed to celebrate the continent’s illustrious history and educate those who haven’t had the opportunity to learn about it before. In an Assassin’s Creed-style game, warrior protagonist Kaar Menelik fights against the gods to save his community.&nbsp;A brief historyThrough founder Ronald’s comic book creations, he met Hannington, a talented 3D artist who took to Sunjata at first sight. From there, with expert advice from collaborators Hans de Heer and Phillip Mukasa, the burgeoning team transformed the plotline into a cinematic, photorealistic game.&nbsp;Without a well established game development industry in Uganda, finding the resources to produce a AAA game was a challenging feat for the team to face. The gaming industry and Ugandan game developers have been virtually non-existent – until now. Sunjata is up to the task of setting the tone for an industry that has yet to break out.Part of the development team’s goal is to establish Uganda as a player on the global games stage. To do that, they need to push for the highest quality content possible, and have it reach outside of the country. “Every milestone we hit, I see it spark a certain level of change in our industry down here,” explains Ronald.&nbsp;Challenges and opportunities Klan Of The Kings opted to use Unreal Engine to build Sunjata, with Ronald learning the software from YouTube videos. The consistent tutorials eventually led him to an Xsens case study demonstrating the use of motion capture in game design.&nbsp;Upon using the motion technology, Ronald found the process “very user-friendly and very easy to implement” into Sunjata, making a small team’s large workload a little lighter. “The process also allowed us to create some high-quality, cinematic trailers,” adds Ronald. “That gave us the polish we need to get noticed.” The natural next step was to fully integrate the Xsens tool into Klan of Kings’ current and future projects.Because there is no established Ugandan game development industry, the team felt that they had to get it right the first time. The pressure to stand out from the crowd and prove themselves was immense, leading to development staying under the radar so it “can really be looked at from a Western, developed point of view,” Hans van Linschoten, entrepreneur and collaborator, explained. Due to some perceived prejudices, the team had to prove themselves to the larger games industry. Finding a sense of unity in the project was proving difficult, due to a lack of belief in the project and the entities in their own skills, resulting in a smaller team and a whole lot of work in front of them.&nbsp;An abundance of dataMotion capture helped Ronald and the team transform the game's animated elements, giving Sunjata a true AAA feel. While the game is currently around halfway through development, the team has access to tools that will help them to capture 3D motion free of needing a stage or cameras. This, paired with the Xsens demonstration videos and support, gives the team the ability to develop high-end content despite the lack of resources in Uganda.&nbsp;Previously difficult-to-execute tasks were made easier by having the tools to digitally replicate human motion, posture, and gait to uplift their animations and gameplay to AAA status competitive with the Western industry. As the game is completely original and high-concept, anything they wanted to add to the game was now simple due to the use of motion capture sensors and instant digital data transfers.What’s next?Sunjata is halfway into development, with the second half predicted to accelerate thanks to Unreal Engine and Xsens.&nbsp;Klan of the Kings remains a small team of four permanent members, but Ronald notes that the amount of talent he comes across in Uganda is immense, and “there’s not enough high-level content coming out yet.” With that, Ronald and the team wish to “push that agenda and really make sure that content does come out of the country on a high level.”&nbsp;With Xsens, Klan of Kings was able to deliver high-quality gameplay that matched their expectations. In a sector with currently limited options, we could provide the gear to enable a higher level of technological creativity.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21QAEYErJsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Trailers</a> for the game are available now, featuring gameplay, a hint to the story and, of course, beautiful introductory visuals created with Unreal Engine and <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Xsens motion capture</a> technology.&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/21QAEYErJsc?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;</iframe>

with Xsens Motion Capture

Motion Capture Revolution in Uganda

In this episode, we explore the first healthcare device powered by body heat, made possible with liquid-based metals and discover how this innovative technology is paving the way for sustainable and energy-efficient medical devices, revolutionizing the future of healthcare.

Podcast: Powering Medical Devices With Body Heat

In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking invisible mask developed by a University of Michigan spin-off that is equipped with a wearable air curtain capable of killing viruses and blocking 99.8% of aerosols.

Podcast: Invisible Shield: Blocking Germs with Wearable Tech

This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/fa3eafdc-1690-4de7-a0e6-d7704c5f0fda?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<hr>An air curtain shooting down from the brim of a hard hat can prevent 99.8% of aerosols from reaching a worker’s face. The technology, created by University of Michigan startup Taza Aya, potentially offers a new protection option for workers in industries where respiratory disease transmission is a concern.Independent, third-party testing of <a href="https://taza-aya.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taza Aya</a>‘s device showed the effectiveness of the air curtain, curved to encircle the face, coming from nozzles at the hat’s brim. But for the air curtain to effectively protect against pathogens in the room, it must first be cleansed of pathogens itself. Previous research by the group of Taza Aya co-founder <a href="https://cee.engin.umich.edu/people/clack-herek-l/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Herek Clack</a>, U-M associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, showed that their method can remove and kill 99% of airborne viruses in farm and laboratory settings.&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGMXfB-g0bY?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" id="796891634" title="An invisible, virus-killing mask">&nbsp;</iframe>“Our air curtain technology is precisely designed to protect wearers from airborne infectious pathogens, using treated air as a barrier in which any pathogens present have been inactivated so that they are no longer able to infect you if you breathe them in,” Clack said. “It’s virtually unheard of—our level of protection against airborne germs, especially when combined with the improved ergonomics it also provides.”Fire has been used throughout history for sterilization, and while we might not usually think of it this way, it’s what’s known as a thermal plasma. Nonthermal, or cold, plasmas are made of highly energetic, electrically charged molecules and molecular fragments that achieve a similar effect without the heat. Those ions and molecules stabilize quickly, becoming ordinary air before reaching the curtain nozzles.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxMDAxMTUwMTY3LVdvcmtlci1wcm90ZWN0aW9uMy0xMjgweDcyMC5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Taza Aya’s Worker Wearable Protection device keeps airborne virus particles from reaching a workers mouth and nose with an air curtain. That air is pre-treated to kill any viruses. Photo: Jeremy Little, Michigan EngineeringTaza Aya’s prototype features a backpack, weighing roughly 10 pounds, that houses the nonthermal plasma module, air handler, electronics and the unit’s battery pack. The handler draws air into the module, where it’s treated before flowing to the air curtain’s nozzle array.Taza Aya’s progress comes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and in the midst of a summer when the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported four cases of humans testing positive for bird flu. During the pandemic, agriculture suffered disruptions in meat production due to shortages in labor, which had a direct impact on prices, the availability of some products and the extended supply chain.In recent months, Taza Aya has conducted user experience testing with workers at Michigan Turkey Producers in Wyoming, Michigan, a processing plant that practices the humane handling of birds. The plant is home to hundreds of workers, many of them coming into direct contact with turkeys during their work day.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxMDAxMTcwMjI2LVN1aXRpbmctdXAuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Herek Clack, a U-M associate professor of civil and environmental engineering and co-founder of Taza Aya, helps Michigan Turkey Producers employee, Blanca Chaidez, adjust a helmet that will protect her from infectious aerosols with an air curtain rather than a face mask. Photo: Jeremy Little, Michigan EngineeringTo date, paper masks have been the main strategy for protecting employees in such large-scale agriculture productions. But on a noisy production line, where many workers speak English as a second language, masks further reduce the ability of workers to communicate by muffling voices and hiding facial clues.“During COVID, it was a problem for many plants—the masks were needed, but they prevented good communication with our associates,” said Tina Conklin, Michigan Turkey’s vice president of technical services. &nbsp;In addition, the effectiveness of masks is reliant on a tight seal over the mouth and noise to ensure proper filtration, which can change minute to minute during a workday. Masks can also fog up safety goggles, and they have to be removed for workers to eat. Taza Aya’s technology avoids all of those problems.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxMDAxMTg4ODU4LU9uLXRoZS1qb2IuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Michigan Turkey Producers employee, Blanca Chaidez, wears Taza Aya’s Worker Wearable Protection equipment as she prepares for her work shift. Photo: Jeremy Little, Michigan EngineeringAs a researcher at U-M, Clack spent years exploring the use of <a href="https://news.engin.umich.edu/2020/03/non-thermal-plasma-can-inactivate-airborne-viral-threat-to-pigs/" target="_blank">nonthermal plasma to protect livestock</a>. With the arrival of COVID-19 in early 2020, he quickly pivoted to how the technology might be used for personal protection from airborne pathogens.In October of that year, Taza Aya was named an awardee in the Invisible Shield QuickFire Challenge—a competition created by Johnson &amp; Johnson Innovation in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program sought to encourage the development of technologies that could protect people from airborne viruses while having a minimal impact on daily life.“We are pleased with the study results as we embark on this journey,” said Alberto Elli, Taza Aya’s CEO. “This real-world product and user testing experience will help us successfully launch the Worker Wearable in 2025.”Clack and the University of Michigan have a financial interest in Taza Aya.

Headworn tech from U-M startup could protect agricultural and industrial workers from airborne pathogens.

An invisible mask? Wearable air curtain, treated to kill viruses, blocks 99.8 percent of aerosols

As the summer heat intensifies, with temperatures sometimes soaring to triple digits, the question of which fabrics are best for staying cool becomes particularly relevant. <a href="https://mse.gatech.edu/people/sundaresan-jayaraman" target="_blank">Sundaresan Jayaraman</a>, a professor in Georgia Tech’s School of Materials Science and Engineering, offers insights into the properties of various fabrics and why some are more effective than others in hot, humid conditions.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1720078088786-Linen+properties+-+June+28%2C+2024.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Jayaraman, a renowned expert in fibers, polymers, and textiles, recognizes linen as the best fabric for hot and humid conditions. He explains that linen's effectiveness lies in its superior moisture management properties. The fiber structure of linen allows it to absorb moisture quickly and then transport it away from the body. This is due to linen's high moisture regain capacity, which means it can absorb a significant amount of moisture without feeling damp.“The moisture vapor transport rate for linen is much greater than that for cotton or polyester,” he explained. Additionally, linen's bending rigidity prevents it from clinging to the body, allowing for better air circulation.Cotton is another popular fabric for summer, known for its softness and breathability. However, Jayaraman points out that while cotton effectively absorbs moisture, it tends to retain it longer than linen, making it feel clammy in extreme heat. Cotton's moisture vapor transmission rate is lower than linen’s, meaning it doesn't dry as quickly.The structure of cotton fibers, which are ribbon-like and can trap more water, also affects cotton’s performance. While it’s more prone to sticking to the body due to its lower bending rigidity, cotton is generally comfortable for less humid conditions or for shorter durations in the heat.While polyester may not be the first fabric that comes to mind for summer, its performance can be significantly enhanced with chemical treatments. Dri-FIT technology, for instance, improves polyester’s moisture-wicking properties, making it a popular choice for athletic wear.“Regular polyester is terrible when it comes to moisture absorption,” admitted Jayaraman. “But Dri-FIT polyester doesn’t feel clammy and is very comfortable for being physically active in the summer months.”While functionality is crucial, aesthetics also play a role in fabric choice for the summer. Linen, despite its excellent cooling properties, is prone to wrinkling and may not drape as elegantly as cotton or treated polyester. Jayaraman notes that linen's natural stiffness, which contributes to its cooling benefits, also leads to its tendency to wrinkle. He says, “For a crisp appearance, linen garments often require ironing before wear.” For those prioritizing appearance, cotton offers a softer drape and a smoother look, albeit with slightly less cooling efficiency.

Smart textiles expert and Professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering shares insight into the best fabrics to wear in the Summer

Stay Cool: Top Fabrics to Wear to Survive the Summer Heat

In the early days&nbsp;of&nbsp;the technology, wearables were mundane&nbsp;- a triumph of function over flair.&nbsp;We wore them to count our steps, not to make us look chic.&nbsp;Things have changed. Modern&nbsp;wearable&nbsp;consumer electronics&nbsp;devices&nbsp;increasingly&nbsp;combine&nbsp;convenience and&nbsp;purpose&nbsp;with&nbsp;more than a&nbsp;touch of&nbsp;classic&nbsp;style&nbsp;in order to&nbsp;grab a slice of a lucrative and growing market.&nbsp;<h2>The global&nbsp;appeal&nbsp;of wearable&nbsp;devices&nbsp;</h2>The wearable technology sector continues to boom. According to analyst Statista, shipments of hearables, smartwatches, smart rings, wristbands, and other wearables are forecast to reach around 560 million units in 2024[1]. That's up from the 336 million units that shipped five years earlier[2], an increase of more than 65 percent.&nbsp;&nbsp;For now, this market is largely dominated by the established smartwatch ranges of major brands like Apple, Garmin, Google Fitbit, and Samsung. These manufacturers attempt to differentiate their products by offering increasing battery life, improving usability, and added features geared towards health and fitness.&nbsp;<h2>Adding form to function&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>But the next wave of wearable tech is set to impact the lucrative world of fashion. Clever designers and developers are meeting new consumer demand by prioritizing form alongside function. By merging advanced technology with a traditional timepiece, a wearable no longer needs to look like a wearable.&nbsp;One company pioneering this approach is French consumer electronics company, Withings. The firm recently launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2024/03/Withings-ScanWatch-Nova-employs-Nordics-nRF52840-SoC" target="_blank">ScanWatch Nova</a>, an advanced, hybrid smartwatch designed to provide wearers with accurate, around-the-clock health metrics while offering an elegant ‘diver style’ stainless steel design.&nbsp;&nbsp;The compact smartwatch integrates temperature, accelerometer, altimeter, and multi-wavelength photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors—all supervised by Nordic Semiconductor’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF52840" target="_blank">nRF52840</a> multiprotocol&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Bluetooth-Low-Energy" target="_blank">Bluetooth LE</a>&nbsp;SoC—to generate a wide range of health data including temperature tracking, on-demand electrocardiogram&nbsp;(ECG), and menstrual cycle tracking.<h2>Smartwatches aim for share of prestige market&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>Global prestige watch brand, Festina, has also launched the latest in its connected watch range in a stylish, modern design. The nRF52840 SoC-powered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2024/03/Festinas-Connected-D-employs-nRF52840-SoC" target="_blank">Festina Connected D</a>&nbsp;is simultaneously both a traditional watch and an activity tracker. The stainless steel timepiece features an authentic physical dial plate and watch hands with a cut-out for the OLED display.&nbsp;Meanwhile Dayton Industrial’s Nordic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF52832" target="_blank">nRF52832</a> SoC-powered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2022/10/Dayton-Industrials-Link2Care-Smartwatch-DA13700-uses-nRF52832-SoC-and-nRF9160-SiP" target="_blank">Link2Care Smartwatch DA13700</a>, promotes elegant design alongside a 3D motion sensor for activity records, inactivity alerts, sleep monitoring, and fall detection. The smartwatch also integrates Nordic's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF9160" target="_blank">nRF9160</a>&nbsp;SiP providing LTE-M/NB-IoT&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Low-power-cellular-IoT" target="_blank">cellular IoT</a>&nbsp;connectivity and GNSS, meaning the wearer’s location can be reported to nominated caregivers along with any SOS alert, while further information can be uploaded directly to the Cloud and customer service center via a cellular network.&nbsp;This movement towards prioritizing form alongside function is no accident. Luxury watch sales haven't been as affected by smartwatch sales as some might think. For example last year Swiss watch exports grew by 7.2 percent compared with the previous year with mechanical watches generating almost 80 percent of the growth&nbsp;[3]. If connected watches can deliver on both looks and functionality, all signs are that consumers will respond positively. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The growing trend in&nbsp;fashionable&nbsp;smart jewelry&nbsp;</h2>Another burgeoning market is fashion-forward smart jewelry that simultaneously provides health data to wearers, sometimes in addition to built-in safety and security features such as location updates and SOS alert capabilities.&nbsp;Aesthetically pleasing smart rings, in particular, are challenging the dominance of smartwatches across the sector.&nbsp;Smart rings target two different markets - people who may not want to wear a watch, and those wanting or needing to collect health metrics.&nbsp;One Nordic-powered smart ring, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2023/09/The-Ultrahuman-Ring-Air-employs-nRF52840-SoC" target="_blank">Ultrahuman Ring Air</a>, can track and record a range of health parameters, and simultaneously offer the wearer activity or recovery recommendations. As well as looking the part, the device is designed to provide a range of metrics—including a movement index and a sleep index—that can help the user better understand and improve their fitness level and the factors that affect their metabolism.&nbsp;Although not a smart ring, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2022/07/The-WHOOP-4-uses-Nordics-nRF52840-SoC" target="_blank">WHOOP 4.0</a>, developed by U.S.-based human performance company, WHOOP, is a non-traditional smart wearable as it does not have a display and can be worn on one arm, allowing the user to also wear a classic watch on the opposite wrist.&nbsp;<h2>Watch this space&nbsp;–&nbsp;the future of wearable&nbsp;tech&nbsp;</h2>The integration of wearable tech into high fashion is no passing trend. In the not too distant future, the boundaries could be pushed even further through concepts like AI-powered clothing design and customization, or interactive fashion experiences that go beyond the physical garment.&nbsp;And when powered by the next generation of highly integrated wireless SoCs, such as Nordic Semiconductor’s revolutionary&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF54H20" target="_blank">nRF54H20</a>, tomorrow’s wearables will not only be more fashionable, but even smaller, lighter, and more functional.&nbsp;<hr><h3>References</h3>1. Wearable unit shipments worldwide from 2014 to 2028. Statista, April 2024.&nbsp; 2. 2019 Wearable Market Report. IDC, March 2020&nbsp; 3. Record value and a sharp rise in volumes. Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, January 2024.

Modern wearable consumer electronics devices increasingly combine convenience and purpose with more than a touch of classic style in order to grab a slice of a lucrative and growing market. 

Wearables become high fashion

<div data-breakout="normal" id="isPasted">Author: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-m-hayden/" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-hook="WebLink">Eric Hayden,&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-m-hayden/" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-hook="WebLink">Head of Marketing &amp; Business Development</a></div><div data-breakout="normal"><a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/blog/hashtags/InMoldElectronics" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">#InMoldElectronics</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/blog/hashtags/WearableElectronics" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">#WearableElectronics</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/blog/hashtags/TextileElectronics" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">#TextileElectronics</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/blog/hashtags/StretchableElectronics" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">#StretchableElectronics</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/blog/hashtags/MedicalElectronics" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">#MedicalElectronics</a></div><div data-breakout="normal">Precision screen printing machines have emerged as the premier choice for manufacturing printed electronics due to their unparalleled accuracy, efficiency, and versatility. These machines are essential in producing high-quality electronic components on flexible substrates, which are increasingly in demand in various industries, from consumer electronics to medical devices.</div><div data-breakout="normal">One of the key advantages of precision screen printing is its ability to achieve fine-line patterns necessary for modern electronic devices. Automatic screen printing machines enable the precise application of conductive inks, solder pastes, and adhesives, which are critical for the functionality and reliability of printed electronics[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/global-automatic-screen-printing-machines-electronics-anevf" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-hook="WebLink">2</a>]. This high precision minimizes errors and ensures consistent production quality, reducing waste and production time.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716560025860-Screenshot+2024-05-24+143533.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Figure 1: ATMALINE RR5060/C - Automatic CCD registration corrects alignment of the coiled material substrate on each printing pass for unrivaled accuracy.<div type="empty-line" data-hook="rcv-block12"> </div><div data-breakout="normal">A prime example of innovation in this field is the ATMA CCD camera screen printing machine. These machines utilize advanced camera optics combined with servo-driven components to enhance precision and alignment, which is crucial for the intricate patterns required in flexible electronics. The ATMAOE model, for instance, eliminates the need for the I-cut process after digital printing, streamlining the manufacturing process and further enhancing efficiency[<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cubbison.com/blog/being-close-doesnt-cut-it-perfecting-precision-with-screen-printing-technology" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">3</a>]</div><div type="paragraph" data-hook="rcv-block13"><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zD4kthj_wtA?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe>Figure 2 - Suitable&nbsp;for high precision screen printing on the coiled flexible (or film) material, such as conductive films, biotech sensors, blood glucose testers, etc.</div><div type="empty-line" data-hook="rcv-block19"> </div><div data-breakout="normal">The versatility of precision screen printing machines is evident in their application across various substrates, including flexible printed circuits (FPCs) and ITO conductive films. These machines are designed to handle the unique challenges posed by flexible materials, ensuring that the electronic components maintain their integrity and performance even under bending and stretching conditions[<a target="_blank" href="https://rhsolutionsllc.com/ATMA_ATMALINE_RR5060_C.html" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">1</a>].</div><div data-breakout="normal">In conclusion, precision screen printing machines, exemplified by ATMA's advanced models, are the optimal choice for manufacturing printed electronics. Their ability to deliver high-precision, consistent, and efficient production makes them indispensable in the rapidly evolving electronics industry.</div><div data-breakout="normal">Sources</div><div data-breakout="normal"><ol><li dir="auto"><a target="_blank" href="http://rhsolutionsllc.com/" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">rhsolutionsllc.com</a><a target="_blank" href="https://rhsolutionsllc.com/ATMA_ATMALINE_RR5060_C.html" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">&nbsp;– ATMALINE RR5060/C</a></li><li dir="auto"><a target="_blank" href="http://linkedin.com/" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">linkedin.com</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/global-automatic-screen-printing-machines-electronics-anevf" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">&nbsp;- Global Automatic Screen Printing Machines for Electronics</a></li><li dir="auto"><a target="_blank" href="http://cubbison.com/" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">cubbison.com</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.cubbison.com/blog/being-close-doesnt-cut-it-perfecting-precision-with-screen-printing-technology" rel="noopener" data-hook="WebLink">&nbsp;- Being Close Doesn't Cut It! Perfecting Precision with Screen Printing Technology</a></li></ol></div><div data-breakout="normal"><hr><h3 dir="auto"><a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/exhibitors-2024-boston" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-hook="WebLink">We are Exhibiting in Boston.</a></h3></div><div type="heading" data-hook="rcv-block27"> </div><div data-breakout="normal">Let's RESHAPE the Future of Electronics together, making it Additive, Sustainable, Flexible, Hybrid, &nbsp;Wearable, Structural, and 3D.</div><div data-breakout="normal">Visit our&nbsp;booth at this long-awaited&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.techblick.com/exhibitors-2024-boston" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-hook="WebLink">TechBlick US event on 12-13 June 2024 in Boston</a>. This is the most important industry and research meeting in our field in the US.</div><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716560125787-RH+Solutions+-Booth+Slide.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <div data-breakout="normal"><div dir="auto"> </div></div></div>

Precision screen printing machines have emerged as the premier choice for manufacturing printed electronics due to their unparalleled accuracy, efficiency, and versatility. 

The Future of Electronics: Precision Screen Printing Machines Leading the Way

Steve Paschky - Managing Director, Sales &amp; MarketingAmong the emerging areas for Printed Electronics (PE), wearables and automotive industries are rapidly adopting this technology on a commercial scale. These sectors are heavily investing in PE due to its several advantages mainly:<ul><li>PE supports invisible electronics</li><li>PE eliminates the complexities of bulky electronics integrations</li><li>PE allows direct printing on lightweight substrates, leading to substantial weight reduction</li></ul><h3> Stretchable electronics: A significant driver of Printed Electronics industry</h3> The transformative impact of PE is not only due to enabling experimentation with various ink materials and functionalities, but also encouraging the use of diverse substrate materials. More specifically in the wearables and automotive sectors, electronics printing on stretchable substrates is highly desirable;<ul><li>Stretchable electronics easily flex to fit complex car interior geometries</li><li>They offer excellent conformity to the human body ideal for health monitoring wearables and medical patches</li><li>Fully integrated PE on textiles offer comfort and movement flexibility in smart garments</li><li>They adopt easily to 3D shapes or thermoformed in the IME process perfect for automotive electronics</li></ul>To support these needs, Saralon GmbH has developed all the essentials for producing stretchable Printed Electronics. Stretchable Saral Inks© include Silver, Carbon-based and non-conductive inks for different stretchable and bendable substrates. On ink targets textile materials by containing larger silver particles to reduce unwanted permeation; the other is designed for printing on paper and thus doesn’t require high-temperature curing. Stretchable Saral Inks© are formulated to adhere to various substrates such as TPU, PC, PET, textile, paper, and other elastic or bendable materials.<h3> An inclusive system of compatible stretchable inks</h3> Stretchable Saral Inks© can be printed on top of each other, allowing for integrated printing in diverse combinations and stretchable overlays for healthcare and sport wearables, smart textiles, stretchable heaters, 3D smart objects, and high resistance stretchable Printed Electronics:<ul><li>Saral StretchSilver 800: for TPU and other plastics such as PC for thermoforming and IME</li><li>Saral StretchSilver 500: Solvent based stretchable conducting ink for textiles and other rough substrates</li><li>Saral StretchSilver H2O 600: for sustainable paper and other bendable application</li><li>Saral StretchCarbon 100 for low-conductive bendable electronics (e.g. heaters)</li><li>Saral StrecthDielectric 100 for encapsulation and protection of conductive layers</li><li>Stretchable EL ink set for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sf3Pq-SlnHY" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">stretchable electroluminescent</a> on TPU (e.g. wearables, security or promotional textile applications)</li></ul> Full compatibility of Saral Inks© is guaranteed leading to significant time and cost reduction in RnD at PE developers end. All Saral Inks© are suitable for all types of screen printing and other printing processes, e.g., flexographic printing, pad printing, dispense and gravure printing. Ink adjustments based on request is also possible to meet the specific demands of innovative projects. Next, let’s move on to a brief overview of each ink, their properties and target applications. Saral StretchSilver 800:&nbsp; Solvent based stretchable conducting ink for direct printing on TPU and other plastic stretchable surfaces. When printed on TPU and dried at 120°C for 10 min, it shows a good initial sheet resistance of 30 mΩ/sq/25 μm and very good adhesion on the surface. Printed Saral StretchSilver 800 conductive ink on PC withstands high temperatures, pressure, and elongation during the thermoforming process. This simplifies the fabrication of highly customizable and conformal 3D electronics for HMI applications e.g., in automotive and white industries. As the demand for IME continues to grow, manufacturers are looking for innovative ways to create products that meet both functional and aesthetic requirements. Presenting stretchability and thermoformability properties, SaralStretch Silver 800 offers greater design flexibility, easier electronics integration in 3D shapes and complex geometries, and significant weight and cost reduction due to the elimination of bulky conventional wiring systems. Compatibility with our <a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/blog/product-updates-conductive-adhesive-inks-for-printed-electronics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">screen-printable conductive adhesive</a> – Saral SilverGlue Alpha 600 – makes it easy to apply SMD components on TPU/PC substrates and create stretchable/thermoformable hybrid electronics.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE2NDU5MTEwMDE4LUZpZ3VyZSAxLSBTYXJhbCBTdHJldGNoU2lsdmVyIDgwMCBwcmludGVkIG9uIFRQVS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Figure 1- Saral StretchSilver 800 printed on TPU Saral StretchSilver 500: Solvent based stretchable conducting ink specifically designed for textiles and other rough surfaces. When printed on knitted fabric of PET/EL blend and dried at 120°C for 10 min, the initial sheet resistance is 25 mΩ/sq/25 μm. Bigger silver particle size in this ink prevents its penetration into the porous surface, resulting in good conductivity preservation upon stretch and after tension release. <a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/blog/product-updates-how-to-choose-the-right-stretchable-conductive-ink-for-wearables-and-smart-textiles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Performance tests conducted by STFI</a> (Renown independent textile research institution in Saxony) benchmarking Saral StretchSilver 500 against an alternative stretchable ink available in the market indicated its superior properties in terms of stretchable conductivity, controllable printing thus process reliability and reproducibility. This ink is the optimised solution for smart textiles in sport, therapeutical, protective garments and other innovative applications.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716459206169-Figure+2-+Saral+StretchSilver+500+printed+on+textile.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Figure 2- Saral StretchSilver 500 printed on textile Saral StretchSilver H2O 600: Water based stretchable conducting ink developed to withstand creasing lines in paper electronics thus doesn’t require high-temperature curing. Direct printed on paper and dried at 120°C for 2 minutes in oven, the ink shows a good sheet resistance of 40 mΩ/sq/25 μm. This ink is the specialty solution to the growing demand for more sustainable non-solvent and paper-based print applications. Due to its low temperature curing and bendability characteristics (creasing lines), Saral StretchSilver H2O 600 is ideal for paper-based and disposable electronics – smart labels for track-trace and logistics monitoring, medical applications e.g. lab-on-a-chip for diagnostics, diabetes sensors, etc.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716459233227-Figure+3-+Saral+StretchSilver+H2O+600+printed+on+paper.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Figure 3- Saral StretchSilver H2O 600 printed on paper Saral StretchCarbon 100: Solvent-based stretchable carbon ink suitable for direct printing on different substrates such as TPU or bendable plastics. Characterized with high sheet resistance of 100 Ω/sq/25 μm (printed on PET and dried at 120°C for 5 minutes in oven), this ink is a promising candidate for stretchable electronic devices including resistors, sensors, or heating elements. Examples of such applications are wearables for sweat (moisture) sensing, heating bandages, and smart sportswear.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716459264298-Figure+4-+Saral+StretchCarbon+100+printed+on+TPU.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Figure 4- Saral StretchCarbon 100 printed on TPU Saral StrecthDielectric 100: Solvent based stretchable insulating ink for protecting stretchable conductive layers. Saral StrecthDielectric 100 is fully compatible with all Saral Inks© therefore smoothly printable on top of and in combination with any of our silver- or carbon-based stretchable inks on paper, plastic, or textiles. After printing a transparent encapsulating layer is achieved that offers additional protection e.g. for electronic wearables. Recommended drying temperature is 120°C for 5 minutes.<h3> About Saralon</h3>Saralon GmbH is an industry leader in the development of functional and conductive inks and ready-to-use printed electronic boards for specific applications:<ul><li>Saral Inks©: A comprehensive range of individual conductive and functional inks that gives printed electronics developers the freedom to choose based on their desired functionality (e.g. stretchability, conductivity, adhesives, sensing, etc.) and end use.</li><li>Saral Inks© sets: Specifically designed and developed sets of compatible inks for effortless integrated printing of high value, high demand electronic applications such as <a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/saralink-printedbattery/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">printable batterie</a>s, <a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/blog/product-updates-print-electroluminescent-displays-yourself" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">electroluminescent</a> &amp; <a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/blog/product-updates-print-electrochromic-flexible-displays-through-saral-inks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">electrochromic displays</a>, etc. With Saral Inks© sets, Saralon eliminates the need for investing extra time and cost finding compatible inks for various circuit parts.</li><li>InkTech: Know-how transfer including design files, printing guide and continuous professional support.</li><li><a href="https://www.saralon.com/en/applications/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Saral Electronics (Technology Platforms)</a>: Pre-printed functional boards produced by Saralon using Saral Inks©. With this portfolio of products and services, Saralon simplifies printed electronics, fuels innovation, and opens the doors to a sustainable future in the electronics industry.</li></ul><hr><h3 id="isPasted">We are Exhibiting in Boston.</h3>Let's RESHAPE the Future of Electronics together, making it Additive, Sustainable, Flexible, Hybrid, &nbsp;Wearable, Structural, and 3D.Visit our booth at this long-awaited <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.techblick.com/electronicsreshapedusa" target="_blank">TechBlick US event on 12-13 June 2024</a> in Boston. This is the most important industry and research meeting in our field in the US.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1716459441919-Saralon-Booth+Slide.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

An inclusive system of compatible stretchable inks

The right stretchable ink system compatible with many substrates is essential for many applications including in-mold electronics, wearable electronics, stretchable/conformable circuits, paper electronics, in-mold electronics, electronic textiles, and beyond, etc. 

Stretchable Saral Inks: All essentials for producing stretchable Printed Electronics

Wearable sensor patches offer novel opportunities for many healthcare and wellness applications. For optimal comfort and reliability, they should be flexible, soft, conformable, or even stretchable. Printed and hybrid electronics enable the use of almost any substrate and packaging materials, making it the perfect technology for next-generation wearables.Author: Antti Kemppainen , VTT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Antti.Kemppainen@vtt.fi" rel=" noopener" target="_blank" data-hook="WebLink">Antti.Kemppainen@vtt.fi</a><h3>Pilot Factory</h3>The production of printed and hybrid electronics requires several manufacturing processes and tools which might not be available by commercial manufacturing partners. VTT’s Printocent Pilot Factory bridges the gap towards full upscaled manufacturing by extremely versatile infra, including for example following capabilities:[1] Roll-to-roll printed electronics lines with:<ul><li>Interchangeable printing methods, high curing capacity and automated layer-to-layer registration.</li><li>Printing and coating processes are available for thin films (&lt;100 nm) up to thick films (tens of micrometers).</li><li>Highly experienced team and facilities for ink tailoring, process development and quality control.</li></ul>[2] Component assembly in a roll-to-roll format using:<ul><li>High throughput pick and place line for low-temperature soldering or adhesive bonding.</li><li>Flip-chip high-precision and bare-die assembly line</li></ul>[3] Extensive converting and post-processing capabilities including:<ul><li>A Versatile lamination and cutting converting line equipped with a cutting laser, robot arms, soldering and ultrasonic welding capabilities</li><li>Injection molding machine with a roll feeder for overmolded electronics</li></ul>[4] The roll-to-roll testing line for automated functionality testing and programming purposes.[5] Dedicated pilot line for silicone material processing in reduced pressure. Additionally, for early screening and testing, there are laboratory-scale capabilities available for all key processes used in Pilot Factory. For verification purposes, characterization capabilities range from material testing, profilometry to 3D X-ray imaging.<hr><h3 id="isPasted">We are Speaking in Boston</h3>Let's RESHAPE the Future of Electronics together, making it Additive, Sustainable, Flexible, Hybrid, &nbsp;Wearable, Structural, and 3D.Join us at this long-awaited <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.techblick.com/electronicsreshapedusa">TechBlick US event on 12-13 June 2024 in Boston</a>. This is the most important industry and research meeting in our field in the US.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE1NTk1MjU3NzUxLVdlIGFyZSBTcGVha2luZyAoQm9zdG9uIDIwMjQpLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3 id="isPasted">ECG Patch: Proof of Concept and Proof of Manufacturing</h3>At VTT, we have developed a smart patch proof-of-concept for a single-lead ECG (Electrocardiogram) wireless patch. This patch is printed and assembled onto a TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) substrate.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE1NTk1MjgxODgwLUVsYXN0aWMgRUNHIHBhdGNoLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><figure id="isPasted"><figcaption>Elastic ECG patch printed and assembled directly onto TPU.&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;Manufacturing processes have been developed and piloted in a versatile environment with highly scalable technologies. In the video below, part of the converting and post-processing at VTT Printocent pilot factory for the ECG patch is shown. The demonstrated technology offers a versatile manufacturing platform for the development of elastic wearable skin contact patches.Smart patch manufacturing video <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z96NH3xBoGw" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z96NH3xBoGw</a><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE1NTk1Mjk5ODQxLVIyUi1jb252ZXJ0aW5nLWxpbmUuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3 id="isPasted">More sustainable future</h3>Printed electronics enable an unlimited selection of materials. For disposable smart patches reused, recycled, biobased or even biodegradable materials can be used. In a recent study, VTT has developed a new sustainable electrocardiogram patch that is fully recyclable and made of biomaterials. The device is modular, so electronic components can be easily removed from the disposable patch and used again. The patch itself is made of nanocellulose and printed with carbon conductors and sensing electrodes. The biodegradable patch is made of VTT’s new material <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDAL4gluGL8" target="_blank">cellulose e-skin</a>, which replaces traditional plastic in wearable skin applications.<h3>Why to use VTT and Pilot Factory</h3>Printocent pilot factory and VTT’s experienced crew offer a fast path from proof of product concept feasibility to scalable continuous web manufacturing. Alternatively, we can address specific technical challenges or process bottlenecks, complementing our customers’ existing competences or capabilities. This facilitates quicker market entry and enhances the precision of manufacturing investments for the future. The insights gained from pilot developments can be effectively leveraged for technology transfer to third parties or for establishing in-house production, with our experts’ support.&nbsp;Read more about:<a href="https://www.vttresearch.com/en/ourservices/printed-electronics" title="VTT Printed Electronics" target="_blank">VTT Printed Electronics</a><a href="http://www.printocent.net/" title="PrintoCent Ecosystem " target="_blank">PrintoCent Ecosystem&nbsp;</a><hr><h3>We are Exhibiting in Boston</h3>Let's RESHAPE the Future of Electronics together, making it Additive, Sustainable, Flexible, Hybrid, &nbsp;Wearable, Structural, and 3D.&nbsp;Visit our booth at this long-awaited <a href="https://www.techblick.com/electronicsreshapedusa" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TechBlick US event on 12-13 June 2024 in Boston</a>. This is the most important industry and research meeting in our field in the US.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE1NTk1MzY3MjEyLVZUVC1Cb290aCBTbGlkZS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raLk_bTMvv4" target="_blank">VTT’s age of wearables video</a><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.vttresearch.com/en/ourservices/printed-electronics" target="_blank">https://www.vttresearch.com/en/ourservices/printed-electronics</a>Printocent Ecosystem for Printed Electronics

Wearable sensor patches offer many opportunities for healthcare and wellness applications. For comfort and reliability, they should be flexible, soft, conformable, or even stretchable. Printed and hybrid electronics enable the use of almost any substrate and packaging materials, making it essential.

Pilot Factory for roll-to-roll processing of next-generation smart wearable patches

<section id="isPasted">One concern about AI is that it can imitate voices, a practice called voice spoofing. Deepfakes are a prominent type of voice spoofing facilitated by deep learning, a process in which AI modeled after neural networks in the human brain analyzes data and draws connections. Criminals can use voice spoofing to impersonate someone’s family member and ask for money. Voice spoofing is also a concern in manufacturing settings where verbal commands are widely used to control machinery. Criminals can engineer voices to manipulate and disrupt the machinery or steal data.&nbsp;Machines and manufacturing personnel need a way to verify that verbal commands are legitimate. Such protections do exist but cannot stop skilled attacks like deepfakes, requiring additional safeguards.&nbsp;Dr. Nitesh Saxena, a professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Texas A&amp;M University, and Yingying (Jennifer) Chen, professor and department chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Rutgers University, are working to protect voice control technology against manipulation. Smartwatches may be part of their solution.</section><blockquote>Improving the security of voice authentication is critical in many applications, especially in manufacturing domains.<cite>Dr. Nitesh Saxena</cite></blockquote><section>Wearable devices like smartwatches are already equipped with microphones and accelerometers, which measure vibrations. Saxena and Chen plan to develop software that can be installed on smartwatches or other wearable devices to help authenticate commands in manufacturing settings.&nbsp;Voice control technologies are susceptible to attack because existing defenses only assess a voice sample’s acoustic properties. Saxena and Chen hope to enhance security by requiring verification of both the acoustic properties and the vibration signals of voice samples. They believe this will improve security because it will be harder for criminals to fake both measures simultaneously.&nbsp;“Improving the security of voice authentication is critical in many applications, especially in manufacturing domains. Thanks to the support from our sponsor, this project will allow us to explore this important line of research,” Saxena said. His&nbsp;<a href="https://spies.engr.tamu.edu/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">lab</a> has pioneered work in voice-based security.&nbsp;</section>

Dr. Nitesh Saxena is teaming up with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station and Rutgers University to create software that could stop voice-control mischief in manufacturing settings.

wearables

Profiles