Case Studies: Page 1 > Page 2 >
Now Intelligent Packaging is as Simple as Printing
Imagine adding the functionality of electronics to packaging as easily as adding a barcode – and at next to no cost. Imagine turning a breakfast cereal box into an interactive game. Imagine adding safety checks and information to drugs packaging. The applications for this new technology are almost endless, including anti-counterfeiting, brand protection, pharmaceutical compliance, toys and games, and differential marketing are just a few.
For a start-up company like Novalia, the opportunities are tremendous. Equally, the originator of this technology, Dr Nick Stone, is very aware of the potential dangers in the world market. “Ideas on their own have little commercial value and, of course, are vulnerable” he says. “So, from the beginning, I have been working closely with patent attorneys Venner Shipley, ensuring that each development is fully protected by patents, which then add a clear marketable value to my concepts.”
The system of printed electronics being pioneered by Novalia has been brought about by advances in organic electronics. Organic semi-conductors are a material that can be coated and patterned on flexible substrates to create transistors and other electronic devices. They have properties that enable simple circuits to be printed over large areas on conventional low-cost thin and flexible substrates such as cardboard or plastics.
The beauty of the Novalia process is its ease of application, using the same printing techniques and equipment that are currently employed. Novalia will discuss a concept with a client – a promotion, brand-linking, an ongoing game, product verification, or whatever may be required – and, considering the types of materials and processes that are available, put forward a concept to add value and functionality to the packaging.
“I am discussing concepts with major packaging companies and manufacturers of toys and games,” says Nick Stone, “and will be moving forward carefully with Venner Shipley’s advice on how best to license this technology. Our work together has been of immense help in identifying the unique technical aspects of this overall concept, helping to uncover the subtle and valuable parts of the process, so that it can be fully protected”.