Functional integrated plastic systems (FIPS)

The FIPS (Functional Integrated Plastic Systems) project is a collaborative R&D programme to develop a unique process and demonstrators for a integrated smart system (ISS) printable plastic electronics component. The component is aimed at adding value and enhancing functionality for a consumer refill product in the $485bn global FMCG packaging industy (in 2012, Visiongain).
Specifically, the project will demonstrate a finite-state machine causing the end-user's product (or product packaging) to give a visual response to a refill-device interface. The project will deliver novel, modular manufacturing processes for these ISS components, using high volume stamping and high-resolution inkjet printing. FIPS will realise this interactive smart label by taking these printed electronics components and combining them with conventional electronics. A global supplier of goods into the home and healthcare FMCG marketplace will drive the product concept, working to ensuring the demonstrators appeal to consumers, while the consortium’s technical expertise will maximise the potential for eventual manufacturability. The modular nature processes will be flexible enough to apply know-how from FIPS into a variety of plastic electronics applications beyond intelligent packaging, such as mainstream print media, licensed post-project into existing UK capability. The project will thus build a complete supply chain between UK material suppliers and end users, with the innovations realising new products, developing cheaper processes and adding value to UK consumers.