Technologies for High-Resolution R2R Manufacturing*

The use of printing techniques to manufacture flexible electronics is now commonplace for a range of products – from consumer electronics to medical tests to automotive components. Product requirements drive choices in manufacturing techniques. This talk will review features that can be delivered by different print methos for comparison against a diverse set of end-use requirements. There are multiple, readily available printing technologies that offer a range of addressable resolutions and obtainable throughputs (i.e. print speed). There is a further distinction between print technologies for the range of inks that can be printed, as well as the volume of ink that can be deposited in a single-pass. We will review a high-level comparison between print technologies – mapping the technical capabilities of each to the features required for end products. Advantages of these additive R2R technologies will be covered - looking beyond the “obvious” potential materials savings over subtractive technologies for potential benefits to both the manufacturer and the end-product stakeholders. The discussion will extend to ways to achieve the best performance from various print systems. Working examples will be primarily taken from Kodak’s high-resolution flexographic functional printing system, however broader insights will be shared. We will explore how best to take full advantage of “addressable resolution” and print speed in print systems, with attention to various process elements that must be considered and controlled