Innovation Network "Hybrid Systems with Printed Electronics" (HIDRONIK)

In the Innovation Network "Hidronik" hybrid concepts, products and materials are developed, which combine the advantages of printed and conventional electronics. The network brings together suitable partners, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and research institutions with complementary competences. By means of joint research and development projects, appropriate solutions are then developed and subsequently marketed.

HIDRONIK was funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as part of the Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM) from July 2020 to July 2023. Since August 2023, the innovation network has been continued by ENERGIEregion Nürnberg e.V. - financed by partner contributions.

In the future, a growing demand for "smart" products can be expected, which react flexibly to environmental conditions or user requirements or communicate with each other (Internet of Things). Hybrid technologies have great potential, e.g. in the application fields of automotive, energy, buildings, white goods, consumer electronics, textiles, logistics, lighting, packaging and health/pharmaceuticals.

Printed electronics is particularly suitable for the seamless and cost-effective integration of corresponding electronics. It can be applied to thin, flexible, stretchable and lightweight substrates, making it easy and seamlessly integrated into a wide variety of applications. In addition, it can be manufactured using additive manufacturing processes, with the advantages of low material consumption, scalable production or even the manufacture of customized products in small quantities.

Printed electronics is thus a technology for the material-saving, efficient and cost-effective realization of smart and at the same time slim products - and a real opportunity for German medium-sized businesses!