We create innovative human machine interface (HMI) solutions for many industries with our In-Mold Structural Electronics® (IMSE) manufacturing technology. Known as the perfect union of form and function, IMSE fully integrates printed, conductive inks with In-Mold Decorating (IMD) to create a complete HMI solution in a single part. Sometimes referred to as in-mold electronics (IME), IMSE solutions simplify and accelerate product assembly. IMSE parts are lighter, more resistant to damage, simplify the bill of materials and ultimately reduce total cost of ownership. IMSE solutions represent proven processes and technology in a different form, creating significant benefits for manufacturers across industries.

Custom IMSE manufacturing capabilities

DuraTech can deliver fully customized IMSE solutions to meet nearly any need. Our IMSE manufacturing capabilities allow us to incorporate various types of LED lights, buttons and controls, finishes and a wide range of colors for a unique user experience. Our IMSE capabilities allow us to create cost-effective, durable components that are ready to flow into full-scale production.

If you are considering IMSE for your next product, it is important to work with our experts from the beginning. This will allow enough time for testing and validation to ensure an efficient manufacturing process. Our production experts will work to understand your application requirements and validate your design compatibility with IMSE.

Illumination

IMSE enables multiple styles of illumination for a superior user experience. Choose between single color or RGB in static and dynamic implementations from LEDs, all integrated within the 3D IMSE structure. Applications include localized icon backlighting, light lines showing control levels, and large area decorative ambient illumination.

Advanced IMSE technology and processes

DuraTech is proud to partner with TactoTek, a deep tech company that develops and promotes IMSE with over 170 granted patents around the world. Our partnership gives us access to TactoTek’s advanced technology and processes, allowing us to enhance our IMSE offerings and provide manufacturers with more electronic functionality. Together, our capabilities enable new integrations while optimizing cost and manufacturability of IMSE for many diverse applications.

Start your next custom in-mold structural electronics project today!

Ebook: A Manufacturer’s Guide to In-Mold Structural Electronics

Known as the perfect union of form and function, IMSE integrates printed, conductive inks with In-Mold Decorating (IMD). It produces a single finished product that requires a fraction of the space of conventional electronics and eliminates the need for a printed circuit board (PCB).

DuraTech creates one of the first in-mold electronics (IME) products in the U.S.

When engineers at Watlow® wanted to improve durability for an industrial controller, they turned to DuraTech. Together, they pioneered a truly innovative solution, creating one of the first in-mold electronics products manufactured in the United States.

What makes a good candidate for in-mold structural electronics?

In-mold structural electronics (IMSE) is the combination of a printed graphic, printed electronic traces and injection molding. The end product is a functional, durable part. Determine if IMSE is the right fit for your business by reading our case study.

Featured Product

Options for Buttons, Sliders and Haptics

  • Measure, Zoom, Pressure Sensing
  • Radial Button
  • Slide Option
  • Wheel Button
  • Detent Control
  • Momentum Control
  • Haptics Control
  • Volume
  • Sound
  • Vibration

IMSE applications and benefits

  • Reduced cost of ownership
  • Unique, flexible design
  • Extremely reliable capacitive switch because there are no moving parts
  • Encapsulated circuit, sensors and other components
  • Efficient variant management
  • Simplified bill of materials
  • The elimination of wires allows for a thin, lightweight, durable control panel
  • No cracks or crevices around buttons for dirt and bacteria to hide
  • Eliminates the need for bulky tech boxes
  • Produces less waste, making the manufacturing process more environmentally friendly

Common IMSE applications:

  • White goods and small appliances
  • Medical devices (large and handheld)
  • HVAC components
  • Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
  • Commercial food service equipment
  • Gas pumps and stations
  • Other human-machine interface (HMI) applications

Industries

Because of the unique benefits and cost savings they provide, IMSE solutions are used across industries for a wide variety of product types. Some of the top industries that utilize IMSE solutions in their products include:

IMSE materials

We customize all IMSE solutions to fit your unique application needs, which includes using the optimal materials for product performance, cost savings and manufacturing efficiency. Commonly used IMSE materials include:

  • Polycarbonate
  • Polyester
  • Acrylics (PMMA)
  • Conductive inks

Why choose DuraTech Industries

Manufacturers choose DuraTech for custom in-mold structural electronics solutions because we have the knowledge, experience and technical skill to create outstanding products with every production run. We live and breathe custom graphics solutions and use our passion to enhance our customers’ products and operations. Our materials science expertise and global reach provide exceptional value and help accelerate the product development process.

Ultimately, manufacturers choose DuraTech because they trust us to provide great products, a great experience and to deliver projects with unbeatable customer service.

Enhance your next project with in-mold decorating solutions from DuraTech. Contact us today to get started.