Integrating injection moulded structural electronics
It has been announced that TactoTek, a developer of injection moulded structural electronics (IMSE) solutions, and Novem, have executed a multi-year agreement to develop solutions integrating IMSE electronics into premium interior trim products. The resulting solutions are single piece, electronically active trim elements for luxury vehicles.
Vice President Operations of Novem Group, Markus Wittmann, stated: “Novem provides innovative interior trim for premium brands, including Audi, BMW, Daimler, GM and Toyota. With TactoTek IMSE, we can integrate electronic controls into our high quality surfaces so they blend into the overall design and result in elegant and functional solutions. We are actively promoting our IMSE-integrated trim solutions to OEMs and have current projects with TactoTek developing a range of use cases.”
In automotive trim applications the ability of IMSE solutions to conform with complex shapes in a thin, single piece, structural part, are significant benefits and enable adding electronics for function, convenience and styling in new locations. IMSE solutions also reduce assembly requirements and simplify installation when compared with traditional electronics.
Jussi Harvela, CEO of TactoTek, added: “As designers become more familiar with IMSE capabilities we are seeing exciting innovation. Use cases in which electronic functions such as seat or mirror controls and NFC antennas blend into cosmetic surfaces, easily used when you need them, and blending into the background when you don’t, represent a growing share of our projects in the automotive segment. These designs appeal in other markets as well, such as home automation.”
Novem is a preferred TactoTek partner for luxury automotive interior trim elements. To facilitate Novem’s multiple projects, TactoTek will provide local support for Novem with dedicated team members in Germany.