2E has been involved in MID technology for more than a decade. The term MID stands for Mechatronic Integrated Devices, describing both the method of production as well as the function of the component. Since 2004 the world’s first mass-produced MID component for the automobile industry has been produced on a fully automated production line for hot-embossed MID assembly groups.
Further well-established production processes for MID components are 2-Shot Injection Moulding (2C) and Laser Direct Structuring (LDS), which was developed and patented by LPKF. Due to high tool costs and low flexibility with regard to layout modification the 2-Shot process is only suitable for very large quantities. In contrast, the LDS process can be used economically even in the production of small quantities.
The basic principle is the use of precision moulded components made of laser-activated substrate. The layout of the conductor path is written directly onto the injection moulded component by laser. A compounded additive is simultaneously activated in the plastic material. During the subsequent current-free metallisation the conductor paths with the required width and layer thickness are formed exactly on the previously layered track.