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TechWaTch October, 2024
Smaller, Smarter, More Comfortable: 3D Circuits Enable the Future of Wearable Tech
By Stephan Schmidt, Principal, Bronc Technology
Wearable devices have become game-changers, allowing for con- tinuous health monitoring and real-time data for both patients and doctors. But there’s always room for
T
improvement. Wouldn’t it be great if these devices were small-
3D circuits integrate com- ponents and copper traces with molded plastic to
create formed devices that save space, conserve ener- gy and offer the design freedom to fit into emerg- ing applications.
er, more comfortable, and even more functional? The main chal- lenge is with wearable devices in the buildable space, since after all they have to be actually “wearable.”
he world of medical tech- nology is constantly chang- ing, and innovation is key.
So, more functionalities can-
not necessarily mean bigger de- vices. One solution to achieve more functionality in the same space are 3D circuits, also known as Mechatronic Integrated De- vices (MID). This technology integrates
circuits directly into 3D molded plastic. As an example, the hous- ing of a hearing aid is becoming a dual-purpose component by adding “circuit board” capabilities, which potentially eliminates the need for separate components and bulky connections, paving the way for a new generation of wearable medical devices.
MID Advantages There are a number of ad-
vantages for using 3D circuits in wearable medical devices. They can dramatically reduce the overall size of the device. Take the hearing aid, for instance: 3D circuits allow for in-ear designs that are nearly invisible and
Enabling medical devices: circuit traces printed on a 3D object.
lead to improved performance. In our hearing aid example, it could result in better sound quality and lower power consumption.
comfortable to wear. Despite their smaller size,
3D circuits can pack more fea- tures and enhanced functionality into a single device, which can
Lastly, MIDs allow for com-
plete design freedom. The de- vice’s shape can be customized and organically shaped to per- fectly fit the body, further en- hancing comfort and us- ability, without having to make design compromises to fit traditional 2D circuit boards. The medical technolo-
gy landscape is ever-evolv- ing, and 3D-Circuits are at the forefront of this change. With a focus on functional- ity, miniaturization, 3D- Circuits are poised to shape the future of healthcare.
Seek Experienced Partners
Taking advantage of
MID technology can be challenging if an OEM does
not have the necessary design ex- perience or access to the 3D cir- cuit manufacturing technology. For that reason, it is advisable to partner with a dedicated MID supplier that brings this particu- lar know-how to the project. Selecting a global leading
provider of 3D MID solutions for medical devices that offers a com- prehensive service, from concept design to prototyping and high- volume manufacturing of the MIDs is crucial for successful im- plementation of 3D circuits, espe- cially for OEMs who attempt such an integration for the first time. HARTING is a global leader
in the field of electrical and elec- tronic connectors, device termi- nations, and network compo- nents, as well as ready-to-use systems. Its dedicated 3D cir- cuits operation is based in Biel, Switzerland, and provides fully integrated design and manufac- turing for MIDs, focusing mainly on medical devices as well as au- tomotive components, sensors
and security devices. Contact: HARTING AG, Leugenestrasse 10, 2500 Biel 6, Switzerland % +41-323442121 E-mail:
mid@harting.com Web:
www.3d-circuits.com r
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