MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the FORCIOT® printed stretchable electronics solution sustainable
Printed electronics support a sustainable future. Stretchable electronics for example typically consume less energy than traditional electronic components, since solutions can also be integrated into smaller spaces closer to surface level and offer a lightweight alternative to rigid, heavier designs.
The manufacturing utilises additive production process minimising scrap, producing also low greenhouse gas emissions. Most emissions originate from raw materials, yet these are seen to be significantly lower than those associated with conventional electronics serving similar purposes.
What material is the sensor made of?
The sensor is formed from very thin layers of stretchable and conformable materials each having different and optimized electromechanical characteristics. The core of the sensor technology is based on printing conductive material into thin stretchable sheets. Material expertise is one of the R&D key competences at Forciot.
What are the key benefits of stretchable electronics?
Forciot’s highly advanced stretchable electronics solution has been built with years of R&D and Forciot has several patents on it. There are several benefits in stretchable printed electronics such as sensing area scalability, stretchability, and thinness.
Compared to conventional electronics, stretchable electronics have advanced scalability, sensors are reprogrammable and there can be multiple sensing areas and different functionalities in one sensor. Typically, the data generated is more extensive and accurate and can serve more functionality. This creates added value with advanced functionality and cost savings through less interfaces and less electronics.
How can we integrate FORCIOT® sensor solution into our own product?
Development project starts with planning, and requirement review. Based on the customer requirement specification a Proof of concept (PoC) design and prototype building starts. Customized prototype ensures the product integration is optimal for mass manufacturing. Forciot has automotive standard (IATF 16949) verified supply chain partners for manufacturing and operates by licensing model in mass manufacturing.
How is the energy management handled and how much energy is consumed?
Energy management can be handled in various alternative ways, depending on the customer application: with external power supply, replaceable batteries, or rechargeable batteries by using either wireless or USB charging. Energy harvesting can be designed as a parallel option for limited applications. Stretchable electronics use often less energy compared to traditional electronics.
Can the software be embedded into our own system?
Forciot’s algorithm SW package can be integrated into the customer’s embedded system if required. Data interfaces are designed so that data can be easily transferred into customer-specific applications, 3rd party clouds or mobile applications, etc.