Glass becomes a functional surface

Fewer components – more functionality. Fewer interfaces – more reliability.

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‍Nothing is impossible. As a development partner and system supplier, we don't view glass as a single component, but as a functional, integrated system. Our goal is to integrate functions directly into the glass surface, reduce interfaces, and develop intelligent system solutions that are more reliable, robust, and cost-effective. Modern products demand an ever-increasing degree of integration. Every additional interface, cable, and separate component increases assembly effort and introduces potential points of failure. By functionalizing glass, electrical and electronic features are integrated directly into the glass surface. This eliminates numerous interfaces, reduces system complexity, and results in durable, robust, and economical total solutions of a completely new quality.

‍Electronics directly on glass. Using electrically conductive printing pastes, circuit paths for electronic circuits can be realized directly on glass. This turns the glass surface itself into a component of the electronics. Depending on the design and application, electrical connections and functional elements can be integrated without the need to attach additional components to the surface. Fewer components mean fewer interfaces, higher reliability, and significantly simpler assembly.

‍Printed sensors. Another area of application is capacitive sensors. Corresponding conductive structures can be applied directly to the glass, enabling features such as touch, control, or proximity functions. The surface retains its high-quality appearance while simultaneously serving as an intuitive interface between human and machine.

‍Function and design in perfect combination. The real added value lies not just in the integration of electronic functions, but in system integration. Conductive paths, sensors, antennas, heating elements, and ESD structures become part of the glass itself. This reduces the number of individual parts, lowers assembly and testing effort, and eliminates potential failure points at connectors, cables, or adhesive joints. The result is system solutions with significantly higher quality, reliability, and service life.

‍Functionalized glass means more than just more features on a surface – it means fewer interfaces, less complexity, and thus a new generation of intelligent system solutions.

‍Interested in learning more? Contact our experts today at Anwendungstechnik@irlbacher.com

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