| abstract: |
The general objective of the “Electronic paper message board for outdoor use with carbon NanoBud display module and GPRS I/O layer” (E-SIGNAGE) project is to develop a large area, low-cost, high brightness and contrast level, robust, energy efficient (bi-stable; no backlight needed), high information content two-colour electronic outdoor message board that is able to receive data via GSM communication and uses solar energy as a power source.
Twist-ball e-paper material developed by Invent Research OÜ (coordinator; SME, Estonia) has the principle capabilities to meet all the quality requirements set by the end-users for active front-plane layers of outdoor electronic signage and message boards (OEMBs). It is potentially highly robust and flexible, has high bi-stability, wide operating temperatures and low production costs. In addition the material is video capable that widens the usage areas of OEMBs. Carbon nanomaterials (Carbon nanotubes and NanoBuds™) developed by Canatu (partner; SME, Finland) have the principle capabilities to meet all the quality requirement set by end-users for the transparent electrode front-plane layers and thin film transistor backplane layers of OEMBs. Canatu’s nanocarbon films are highly robust and flexible, have high carrier mobility, on-off ratios and exceptional optical properties such as high transparency, colour neutrality and excellent index matching. Moreover, Canatu’s Direct Dry Printing technology allows low cost, high volume production.
Further development of Invent Research’s and Canatu’s materials in combination with the existing OEMB components will enable the partners of the proposal to develop autonomous and good picture quality OEMB applications. It would be necessary to develop the quality characteristics (brightness and contrast level, resolution, stability in time and in UV light) of the e-paper material (front-plane) for using in OEMBs; develop carbon nanomaterials based front-plane electrodes and backplane transistors; integrate the front-planes/backplanes with other OEMB components; and develop the necessary software. |
