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Rapid Prototyping of flexible LCD's and optoelectronics?

Dear Ed,

I was wondering whether you might be able to answer a question for me, please? Is there any call for, or are there any services that offer rapid prototyping of, 'Flexible LCD's'?

I work as a consultant in the Flat Panel Display Industry (LCD's) and any information that you might have on the above mentioned would be of interest to me. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best Regards,
BL

Hi BL:

The short answer is, that I don't know of any such service. However, I've never looked for one, either, so for all I know they're as common as mud.

Regarding the desirability of such a service, I can see where there might be some demand. However, I think that demand might come from smaller companies which might be seeking a short run of product for custom applications (10's to 100's?) rather than larger companies seeking prototypes.

I would presume you would be limiting this to simple flexible displays with well-developed technology that can be handled by simple fabrication means. Applications such as consumer goods, instrumentation that needs a simple alphanumeric display of some kind, etc. I don't think it will be very easily possible to RP advanced color technology of a random nature requiring active devices, etc.

You might also want to consider the possibility of organic LED technology, as well. This might have a lot of fabrication means in common, color capability, and may be a long-term competitive threat.

Anyway, I'm sure that much more can be learned and speculated on this subject.

Thanks for your letter and I send best regards.
Ed

Ed Grenda
Castle Island Co.
The Worldwide Guide to Rapid Prototyping

Dear Ed,

Thanks for your rapid reply to my request.

You’re right of course, OLED's are the current vogue in the industry and certainly have their advantages (as well as disadvantages).

The client I'm currently working for has the capability to make small runs of plastic LCD's but is expanding, and, therefore, looking for new accounts. The issue is which type of customer and for what market - as you pointed out. Colours can be done, however, the means must be justifiable - ROI.

Best Regards,
BL