A demonstrator by Kurz to show off their wood-effect polyester foil hot stamped onto acrylic sheet, which is backlit with integrated tough sensor. A black mask is printed on the reverse side of the semi-transparent foil, which helps control the lighting effect. This kind of technology is used in appliances as well as automotive applications. In car interior applications, where head impact is a risk, polycarbonate (PC) is preferred over acrylic (PMMA).
The front grille for the BMW iX is produced in a cleanroom environment, since any dust would be visible through the high-gloss polyurethane (PUR) finish. Produced in an integrated process, the component consists of a functional film that is back-injection moulded with polycarbonate (PC) and then flood-coated with 2-3 mm PUR. Engel developed the production cell.
The Nike+ Fuelband activity tracker, launched 2012, is encapsulated within a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) skin. A flexible circuit board is mounted onto an injection moulded polypropylene (PP) chassis. The whole assembly (circuit board, processor, sensors, antenna, USB connector and LED lights), but excluding the batteries, is placed into a mould and injection over-moulded with a TPE skin in a two-stage process (inside then outside).
Spot Material is a database of materials for sustainable design, curated by Rob Thompson. Compare properties, carbon and end of life, find better alternatives and discover new material innovations. Browse all materials
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