Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1047182
66 SMT007 MAGAZINE I NOVEMBER 2018 ponents in a box. Instead of mechanical but- tons, switches, and multipart electronic assem- blies, SE interfaces can use strong, thin, and lightweight solutions that also act as load- bearing protective structures. Expanding Applications and Adding Value By adding features that can offer both per- formance and manufacturing benefits, printed electronics are expected to support connected healthcare developments in machine interfac- es, antennas, and lighting and heating sourc- es. Disposables, such as small flexible patch- es, will also need smart solutions. However, before adding features, device designers expect actionable outcomes. With printed electron- ics, these can include patient safety and com- pliance, such as tamper-proof drug compart- ments and counterfeit protection. Connected healthcare applications for printed electronics are also expected to include smart packaging that can automate drug identifica- tion, track expiration dates, and evaluate a med- ication's diminishing potency or capacity. Tem- perature-sensing smart labels will measure the integrity of packaged pharmaceuticals during transport and in storage. In some cases, these labels will incorporate printed memory or dis - plays to communicate contextual information like temperature or humidity. Paper or plastic packaging can include radio frequency identifi- cation antennas or incorporate near-field com- munications for accessing text and graphics. In hospitals or homes, printed electronics can also support human-machine interfac- es, such as curved three-dimensional panels on larger devices and equipment like hospi- tal beds. These technologies could also dis- play patient information and embed TV con- trols. Applications for printed electronics in connected healthcare may also include humid- ity control for hospital beds, thermal sources that maintain fluids at body temperature, and medical wearables, such as smartwatches, fit- ness bands, and virtual and augmented reali- ty headsets. Sensors incorporated in pillows or mattress could help monitor sleep, breathing, or heart rate. Conclusion If the demand for connected healthcare is as large as many experts predict, the expected growth in printed electronics is inevitable. As is the case with all emerging technologies, the rate of adoption will vary with cost and val- ue. Shifting this cost-value ratio in favor of val- ue will be especially important for commodity applications compared to personalized medi- cine. However, the value that printed electron- ics provide will also drive growth for new- er, more sophisticated, and highly functional medical devices. For companies that are designing devices with printed electronics, the opportunities in connected healthcare are clear. There are also continuing advances in printing techniques, conductive inks, and substrate capabilities. Industry groups and government organizations are supporting advances, too. The connected healthcare ecosystem will grow with the prolif - eration of small, compact, and wireless sensors that are powered and processing at the net- work's edge. Printed electronics can produce these structures and deliver increasing value. The authors would like to acknowledge the efforts of several colleagues in global labs and technology solutions partners in advancing this strategic capability. SMT007 References 1. "Isorg and Flexenable Win Industry Award for First High- Resolution Flexible Image Sensor Designed on Plastic." Andrew Lloyd & Associates, 2017. 1. Zhe Shu, "Solution-Processed Organic Light Sources for Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip Systems." University of Jena, Ger- many, 1987. Girish Wable is a senior manager for strategic capabilities at Jabil. Ralph Hugeneck is a senior director of technology at Nypro, a Jabil company.