Advancements in Functional Inks for the Evolving HMI Applications

Human machine interface (HMI) space is constantly evolving to meet consumer expectations for functionality and unique design. Screen printing and polymer thick film materials have been used for HMI for many years, mainly in touch switch and touch panel applications. Today, with HMI designs moving towards higher levels of functionality, reliability and aesthetics, there is a great opportunity for manufacturers to expand the use of printed electronics and take advantage of additive processing for lower cost of manufacture and improved environmental impact. In addition, printed electronics can deliver new form factors and design features not readily possible or too expensive with more traditional PCB or FPC designs. This presentation will discuss the trends in HMI and developments in materials solutions to advance the presence of printed electronics in HMI applications.

John Hannafin is currently Global Product and Business Development Manager at Sun Chemical. Formerly CEO of NanoMas Technology, a high performance nanosilver particle and ink producer, he joined Sun upon his sale of NanoMas to Sun in 2013. John has over 25 years of experience in materials and solutions for the printed electronics, electronic assembly and semiconductor packaging industries. He has a BS in Electronic Engineering from the Wentworth Institute of Technology and an MBA from the Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College.