Patented tactile HMI can be designed into custom 3D shapes;

TactoTek�s IMSE^TM technology reduces plastics use, weight up to 80%

KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KYOCERA Corporation (President and CEO: Hideo Tanimoto) today unveiled its HAPTIVITY^� i human-machine interface (HMI) technology � a hybrid innovation combining its patented HAPTIVITY^� touch technology with IMSE^TM, a patented 3D injection-molded structural electronics technology from TactoTek Oy (CEO: Jussi Harvela). The result lets designers create HMI solutions in a vast range of 3D shapes, with thinner form factors, fewer components, improved vibration resistance, and significantly reduced weight. Additionally, because they are fully integrated and seamless, HAPTIVITY^� i solutions offer an interface that is reliable, durable, protected from debris and moisture, and easy to clean.

Technology Background

Kyocera�s original HAPTIVITY^� technology employs piezoelectric elements, a vibration amplification mechanism, a control circuit, and proprietary software to transmit vibration through a panel or display surface when touched and pressed. Biomechanically engineered vibration waveforms can replicate real tactile sensations by stimulating neural mechanoreceptors in the user�s fingertip � allowing the user to �feel� physical buttons, for example, and press them, on a panel where no physical buttons exist.

TactoTek�s IMSE^TM technology integrates printed electronic circuitry and electronic components within 3D injection-molded plastics, providing structure, electronic functions, and cosmetics in one seamless, single-piece, smart surface. Integrated functions commonly include capacitive touch sensing, illumination, and wireless connectivity. Compared to traditional electronics, IMSE^TM reduces part-wall thickness up to 95%, diminishing plastics use and component weight up to 80%, and producing 34% less CO₂ emissions �cradle to gate� (from raw material extraction to ready-made products).

The combination promises unprecedented design flexibility and seamless user interfaces. Also, by eliminating wasteful production material and assembly requirements, HAPTIVITY^� i will help realize eco-friendly HMI solutions for applications demanding high performance, such as vibration-proof structures for automotive controls and easy-to-clean interfaces for consumer products and smart home systems.

HAPTIVITY^� i Features

1. Thin, seamless 3D design enables new HMI devices

Integrating Kyocera�s unique HAPTIVITY^� technology into a form factor thinned with IMSE technology creates an alternative to conventional mechanical buttons or a flat touch-panel, resulting in a seamless 3D design that dramatically enhances the user experience.

2. Combining HAPTIVITY^� and IMSE^TM reduces components and labor

Conventional HMI technology involves a complex bill of materials that must be procured from multiple suppliers and assembled. In contrast, HAPTIVITY^� i will offer designers the potential to integrate decorative elements, lighting, touch switches, pressure sensors, tactile actuators and other components into a single module, greatly reducing procurement, assembly and labor requirements.

Kyocera will continue to develop modules equipped with HAPTIVITY^� i, integrated with a wide range of other Kyocera products and technologies to advance cutting-edge HMI applications. For more information on how HAPTIVITY^� i technology can support your HMI requirements, please contact Kyocera at [email protected].

About KYOCERA
Kyocera Corporation (TOKYO:6971, https://global.kyocera.com/), the parent and global headquarters of the Kyocera Group, was founded in 1959 as a producer of fine ceramics (also known as �advanced ceramics�). By combining these engineered materials with metals and integrating them with other technologies, Kyocera has become a leading supplier of industrial and automotive components, semiconductor packages, electronic devices, smart energy systems, printers, copiers, and mobile phones. During the year ended March 31, 2021, the company�s consolidated sales revenue totaled 1.5 trillion yen (approx. US$13.8 billion). Kyocera is ranked #603 on Forbes magazine�s 2021 �Global 2000� list of the world�s largest publicly traded companies, and has appeared on The Wall Street Journal�s list of �The World�s 100 Most Sustainably Managed Companies.�

� 2021 Kyocera Corporation. HAPTIVITY^� is a trademark of Kyocera Corporation. IMSE^TM is a trademark of TactoTek Oy.

Contacts

KYOCERA Corporation (Japan)

Corporate Communications

Hiroyuki Tsuda

TEL: Head Office +81-(0)75-604-3416

E-mail: [email protected]