NANOMATRIX · Innovation of novel high resolution electronics for reflective electrochromic displays

Final Activity Report Summary - NANOMATRIX (Innovation of Novel High Resolution Electronics for Reflective Electrochromic Displays)

The NANOMATRIX project was concerned with the development of novel reflective displays using NTERA's NanoChromics' technology. The successful realisation of the project was predicated on forming a multi-disciplinary team capable of providing expertise in many diverse technical fields. NTERA succeeded in attracting many highly qualified and experienced researchers from around the world to work in Dublin on this project due to the unique challenges presented. The company developed an emphasis on printed electronics and development of the NanoChromics' display solution for fully printable deposition. While this necessitated some return to basics in terms of the research conducted, this was very closely aligned with the key thematic areas of the original NANOMATRIX proposal and was consistent with the long-term needs of the NANOMATRIX programme. Key thematic areas: • Colour • Architectures • Materials • Manufacturability • Drive Schemes • Software & Hardware Platforms Within these areas we have made significant progress towards the milestones of the NANOMATRIX program. Highlights include: • Multiple colour options through organic synthesis research on electrochromic molecules • Flexible hardware and software platforms for research and development of circuit designs and drive schemes • TFT circuit designs with simulation data and device fitting • Patented display architectures • ASIC display driver designs • Hot laminated numeric display cards • High-yield architectures for all-printed displays (>95% yield achieved with our print partner). Multi-functional inks for printed displays and printed electronic systems. Our fully printable display solutions on plastic enable ultra-low cost display devices to be produced by high throughput print methodologies, such as continuous screen-printing and flexographic printing. Initially, these devices will be used in a variety of applications from smart labels to stored value cards and electronic ticketing systems. The architecture that we have innovated for these products will ultimately enable us to build low cost, high-resolution active-matrix driven devices. We are presently in discussion with several companies who are developing printable transistor technologies that will enable our long-term roadmap of low-cost, fully printable active-matrix displays. Part of the overall strategy of migrating the technology onto plastic substrates is to enable commercial printers to easily customise and produce the display using inks provided by NTERA. This approach enables rapid scale-up of production activities compared with non-printed technologies. NTERA has successfully validated that we can enable any printer with standard printing assets to quickly and easily mass-produce the technology through ink sales and process support. Additionally, we have substantial activities in end-user development and building an eco-system around printed electronics to enable functional printed systems. NTERA has transformed a substantial background knowledge base and a focused research effort within the last 4 years to bring a technology from the lab to a state of commercial readiness. The realisation of displays on plastic within this period has positioned NTERA for creating a successful and profitable enterprise. The market interest that has been shown as a result of our printed flexible displays is testament to the on-going efforts of the company to commercialise a highly innovative new technology. The positive feedback from industry experts in the field of printed electronics has given us renewed traction with our investors and customers and we are in the process of producing saleable devices in conjunction with our customers based on the research carried out to date.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union