Printed Electronics VTT

Developed by Portugal-based startup Ynvisible, Printoo is a set of paper-thin flexible circuit boards and modules that are programmable with Arduino software.

Printoo provides makers with a lightweight, flexible, open-source, and modular platform compatible with Arduino to help them create anything they want.

The unique thing about Printoo is that it provides users with components from different makers and printed modules previously unavailable to the public. Some of these components include an LED strip by VTT, an ultra-thin battery by Blue Spark, a soft battery by Enfucell, a polymer solar cell by Mekoprint, among others. Ynvisible also included its electrochromic display and display driver into the mix.

The printed electronics modules include printed batteries, photodetectors and solar cells that can all connect to each other. Creative makers can put together one or more of the printed components to build an entirely new creation or add them to an object to create new functionalities like internet or Bluetooth connectivity. For example, users can wrap an LED strip around a can to add lights or put the components inside a 3D-printed model car and configure the car so that it can be controlled with a smartphone.

Makers can even do away with soldering or wiring the components together and just use conductive ink to connect the modules together.

Ynvisible is also making Arduino sketches and apps that makers can use for Printoo available to users to help them with their projects. With the apps, creators can connect their Printoo projects to the net or control them with a smart device or a laptop.

Ynvisible has launched a Kickstarter for the platform and the campaign has already raised more than twice its target goal of $20, 000, with still more than ten days to go in the campaign. Backers can purchase a Printoo core kit composed of three components for as low as $45 while a basic pack of seven components will cost them $95. Deliveries are expected to ship by October this year.