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TactoTek

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Overview

TactoTek is a pioneering company specializing in the development and implementation of Injection Molded Structural Electronics (IMSE) technology. This innovative approach revolutionizes the design, manufacture, and user experience of human-machine interfaces.

IMSE Technology

TactoTek's IMSE technology integrates electronic components into molded plastic structures, creating smart, interactive, and sustainable surfaces. The process involves four main steps:

  1. Printed Decoration and Electronics: Printing of decorations and electronics on a film insert molding (FIM) material.
  2. 2D Surface Mounting of Components: Mounting electronic components on a flat plastic film using standard high-speed pick-and-place equipment.
  3. Thermoforming: Transforming the flat electronics film into its desired 3D shape.
  4. Injection Molding: Using the formed electronics film as an insert for injection molding, resulting in a solid, single-piece structure with encapsulated electronics.

Products and Services

TactoTek offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources to support IMSE design and manufacturing:

  • TactoTek Online: A central hub offering guidelines, tools, and methods for IMSE part design and manufacturing.
  • IMSE Trainer: An interactive learning platform with educational content and expert discussions.
  • IMSE Digital Tools: Tools for analyzing IMSE solution feasibility and utilizing existing CAD software.
  • Application-specific IMSE Reference Designs: Real-world examples for third-party enhancement or modification.
  • IMSE Knowledge Base: A resource for intellectual property packages and expert know-how.

Sustainability and Efficiency

TactoTek's approach focuses on sustainability and efficiency by:

  • Reducing complexity and resource consumption
  • Eliminating unnecessary waste
  • Streamlining manufacturing processes This strategy helps meet sustainability goals while enhancing user experiences through seamlessly integrated technology.

Industry Applications

TactoTek's IMSE technology finds applications across various sectors, including automotive, consumer electronics, and other industries where innovative human-machine interfaces are crucial. The company supports a diverse range of customers, from designers and engineering service providers to manufacturing service providers and OEMs.

Leadership Team

TactoTek's leadership comprises experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in high-tech industries. Key members include:

Executive Team

  • Jussi Harvela: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  • Antti Keränen: Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
  • Anna-Maria Heikkinen: Vice President of Human Resources
  • Dave Rice: Senior Vice President of Marketing and Business Development
  • Karthikesh Raju: Senior Vice President of Product Management and Marketing

Board of Directors

  • Anders Dahlblom: Chairperson, currently COO at Virala Oy
  • Anders Stenbäck: Partner and co-founder at Good Ventures
  • Kai J. Siebert: Board member
  • Erkki Aaltonen: Limited Partner & Board Observer at SP Ventures
  • Leslie Chard: Experienced attorney and C-level technology evangelist
  • Nalin Advani: Board member
  • Rik Thorbecke: Board member with background in finance strategy and operations

Advisor

  • Hubert Bieder: Former Manager of Smart Materials at Mercedes-Benz AG, now serving as a strategic advisor guiding TactoTek's research and development activities This diverse leadership team brings extensive experience in technology innovation, business development, and strategic planning to drive TactoTek's growth and innovation in the IMSE field.

History

TactoTek, a Finnish company headquartered in Oulu, has established itself as a leader in the development and commercialization of Injection Molded Structural Electronics (IMSE) technology. Here's an overview of the company's history and key milestones:

Founding and Technology Development

TactoTek was founded with the goal of transforming the electronics industry by integrating electronic functions into 3D injection-molded plastics. The company's IMSE technology combines printed circuitry, electronic components, and plastics to create thin, lightweight, and durable smart surfaces.

Funding and Investments

In 2021, TactoTek secured significant funding:

  • Up to €15 million from the European Guarantee Fund (EGF)
  • Venture Bridge financing led by Conor Venture Partners and Tesi
  • Government-backed grants and loans Total funding reached €22 million, supporting the company's growth and technological advancements.

Licensing and Partnerships

TactoTek has engaged in several strategic partnerships to expand its reach:

  • 2022: DuraTech Industries licensed TactoTek's IMSE technology for global production and sales
  • 2023: Partnership with TracXon Solutions to enhance IMSE technology supply

Intellectual Property

TactoTek has built a strong intellectual property portfolio:

  • Over 280 patents in In-Mold Electronics
  • 44 patent families with over 130 granted patents
  • Extensive trade secrets and know-how for IMSE design and production

Market Adoption and Innovation

Despite initial slowdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, TactoTek has seen market acceleration. The company anticipates significant adoption of IMSE technology in key markets such as automotive by 2027-2028. TactoTek has also collaborated with other industry leaders, such as Kyocera, to develop innovative products like HAPTIVITY® i, which combines haptic technology with IMSE to create realistic tactile sensations. Throughout its history, TactoTek has maintained a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and global market expansion, positioning itself as a pioneer in the field of Injection Molded Structural Electronics.

Products & Solutions

TactoTek, a pioneer in In-Mold Structural Electronics (IMSE®) technology, offers innovative solutions that transform conventional structures into smart, interactive surfaces. Their product range includes:

IMSE Technology

TactoTek's core offering integrates electronic functions such as lighting, touch controls, and antennas directly into 3D injection-molded structures. This results in lightweight, thin, and durable smart surfaces that enhance design freedom and sustainability across various industries.

Design and Manufacturing Tools

  • IMSE Digital Tools: Analyze feasibility and guide CAD software usage, with a Feature Library to accelerate design work.
  • IMSE Trainer: An interactive learning platform with educational resources to expedite IMSE design proficiency.
  • Application-specific IMSE Reference Designs: Real-world examples enabling third parties to enhance or modify existing designs.

Knowledge Base and Intellectual Property

TactoTek offers a comprehensive IMSE Knowledge Base, including intellectual property packages and expert know-how. The company holds over 280 granted patents in 48 patent families, demonstrating its commitment to innovation.

Ecosystem and Partnerships

TactoTek has cultivated a global network of licensees and partners, including industry leaders like Kyocera, Gentex, Polestar, and Valeo. Partnerships, such as with BeLink Solutions, ensure a robust supply chain for IMSE technology.

Industry Applications

TactoTek's IMSE solutions find applications across multiple sectors:

  • Automotive: Integrated control panels and ambient lighting
  • Consumer Electronics: Sleek designs with embedded controls
  • Home Appliances: Seamless user interfaces
  • Industrial Applications: Durable control systems
  • Defense and Medical: Ruggedized electronic components

Sustainability Focus

IMSE technology employs clean, additive processes that significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional electronics, aligning with TactoTek's vision of a circular economy and reduced environmental impact.

Core Technology

TactoTek's core technology, Injection Molded Structural Electronics (IMSE®), integrates electronic components, mechanics, and cosmetics into thin, 3D structures. Key aspects include:

Integration Process

IMSE combines printed circuitry and discrete electronic components directly into 3D injection-molded plastics, creating a seamless, single-piece structure that eliminates the need for multiple parts and complex assemblies.

Manufacturing Steps

  1. Screen Printing: Decoration and electronics are printed on film insert molding (FIM) material.
  2. Surface Mounting: Electronic components are attached using high-speed pick-and-place equipment.
  3. Thermoforming: The flat electronics film is transformed into its 3D shape.
  4. Smart Film Insert Molding: The formed electronics film is used as an insert for injection molding.

Key Benefits

  • Weight Reduction: Up to 70% lighter than conventional electronics
  • Thinness: Wall thicknesses as slim as 2 mm
  • Durability: Electronics encapsulated in plastics, resistant to vibration and moisture
  • Design Flexibility: Allows for complex geometries and new design possibilities
  • Sustainability: Uses 50-75% less plastic than conventional electronics

Applications

IMSE technology benefits various industries:

  • Automotive: Control panels and in-vehicle applications
  • Home Appliances: Intelligent controls and mode-specific lighting
  • Industrial Controls: Simplified electronic solutions
  • Smart Home and Wearables: Customized interfaces and encapsulated sensors

Licensing Model

TactoTek's business model involves licensing its intellectual property to companies that design and manufacture IMSE parts for OEMs and brands, fostering innovation and business growth through its extensive patent portfolio and production technologies.

Industry Peers

TactoTek, a leader in In-Mold Structural Electronics (IMSE®) technology, operates within the Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing industry. While its unique position in IMSE technology sets it apart, the company has several peers and competitors in the broader context of advanced electronics and manufacturing innovation:

Direct Competitors

  • Canatu: Specializes in nanocarbon solutions and flexible electronics
  • Yomura: Involved in advanced electronics manufacturing
  • Molex: Provides electronic components and solutions, competing in advanced electronics integration
  • MID Solutions GmbH: Specializes in Molded Interconnect Devices, related to IMSE technology

Indirect Competitors

  • Basemark: Operates in the broader electronics and technology space

Industry Peers

  • Frisimos: While primarily focused on automated cable assembly, Frisimos uses AI-based robotics and computer vision, aligning with TactoTek's innovative manufacturing approaches

Market Positioning

TactoTek's focus on IMSE technology gives it a unique advantage in specific applications, particularly in automotive, consumer electronics, and home appliances. However, the company faces competition from both specialized firms in flexible electronics and larger, more diversified electronics manufacturers.

The competition in this space reflects broader trends in the electronics industry, including:

  • Increased demand for lightweight, durable electronic components
  • Growing interest in flexible and integrated electronics
  • Push for more sustainable manufacturing processes
  • Convergence of traditional electronics manufacturing with advanced materials and design techniques TactoTek's success in this competitive landscape will likely depend on its ability to continue innovating in IMSE technology while effectively partnering with and licensing to major manufacturers across various industries.

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