Injection mold meets high-tech film

TactoTek development project for smart plastic parts

At Hofmann – Ihr Impulsgeber’s mold shop, it’s literally glowing at the moment – thanks to TactoTek’s In-Mold Structural Electronics technology: Patented, sustainable and trendsetting films with integrated conductor tracks and LED lights are flooded in complex injection molding processes.

The result: probably the thinnest plastic components with integrated technical applications currently possible.

Best injection molding tools for new applications

With the help of the sliding table mold designed by Hofmann, the foil insert from TactoTek is flooded three times: Both from the visible side and from the non-visible side, the foil is encased in different plastics, including its technical refinements – conductor tracks, LEDs and ports.

Thanks to the double conversion of the part directly in the mold, a space-saving plastic part is thus created in just a few automated steps without any additional manual labour.

Ideal for the automotive industry, smart home or lifestyle goods

Thus, thanks to cycle optimization, a potential component for the automotive sector, smart home applications or lifestyle products is created in a very short time which is not only very slim and looks stunning, but also offers smart functions.

The unusual thinness of the resulting plastic object makes new design solutions possible, as technology can be integrated in a space-saving way – and does not have to be added in clunky boxes. This reduces space requirements and therefore allows a new freedom of product design.

In combination with conductor paths and through the integration of LEDs, illuminated function keys and objects can be easily realized for a wide variety of applications.

Foil expertise in toolmaking

Since plastic parts classically contract after being ejected from a mold, the Hofmann specialists are currently working on preventing this reduction as best as possible. In order to do so, they blow CO2 into the cavity before the injection process, which then bonds with the plastic mass. Meaning to ensure that the product retains its shape and does not shrink during its cooling phase.

This way, Hofmann remains true to its principle of continuous research and development in this project as well.

Read more: Unique research and innovation: Patents from Hofmann – Ihr Impulsgeber