Polymeric Materials and SMT Applications in Cost Effective Manufacturing

POLYMAN - CP94-896

Keywords: electronics manufacturing, surface mount technology, sensors, membrane keyboards, polymer screen printing

Start Date: 1 January 95 / Status: finished / Duration: 24 months

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Objectivies and Approach

This project aims to implement improved, efficient and cost effective manufacturing techniques applicable to electronic components such as sensors made with polymeric inks and assembled with surface mount technology (SMT) as well as for realisation of low cost keyboard membrane switches.

To achieve the goal of cost effective manufacturing in this area, the project will primarily address:

properties of materials used in the process,
manufacturing process techniques,
conformity with quality requirement standards.

Three demonstrators - proximity sensor, membrane key board, SMT module assembly - will be used to show the results of the project.

Progress and Results

The demonstrators "proximity sensor" and "membrane key board" have been manufactured. Manufacturing process techniques in the areas of surface mount, solder and polymer screen printing are operational now. Both Central European industrial partners have implemented the general policy of ISO 9000 standard and the process documentation as well. The university of Karlova has carried out extensive studies and development of screen printable materials showing potential sensing effects. One partner is currently evaluating subcontract manufacturing opportunities.