What is the difference between plastronics and traditional electronics?

Plastronics integrates electronic circuits directly into three-dimensional plastic parts using technologies like In-Mold Electronics (IME). This approach allows for seamless integration of electronics and design, resulting in lighter, thinner, and more durable components with complex shapes. In contrast, traditional electronics typically involve separate circuit boards and components assembled into housings, which can increase weight, size, and complexity. Plastronics reduces assembly steps and enables more ergonomic, aesthetic, and functional product designs.

What advantages does IME have over conventional electronic systems?

Lower weight, increased durability, greater design freedom, reduced assembly costs, and improved user experience.

What materials are used in the IME process?

The IME process typically uses thermoplastic materials that are compatible with injection molding and electronic integration. Common materials include: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Good mechanical strength and surface finish. Polycarbonate (PC): High impact resistance and thermal stability. Polypropylene (PP): Chemical resistance and flexibility. PMMA (Acrylic): Optical clarity and UV resistance. PET: Lightweight and durable, used in some applications. The choice of material depends on the specific application requirements such as mechanical properties, aesthetics, and environmental resistance.

In which industries is this technology applied?

IME technology is applied across various sectors , including: Automotive: Interior components, control panels, and touch interfaces. Consumer Electronics: Device housings, user interfaces, and smart controls. Home Appliances: Decorative and functional panels with integrated electronics. Medical Devices: Sterile housings, instrument panels, and wearable health monitors. Industrial Equipment: Durable, integrated control units and displays. Aerospace: Lightweight, multifunctional components with embedded electronics. IME enables compact, durable, and aesthetically pleasing electronic integration tailored to each sector’s needs.

IME
In Mold Electronics

In-Mold Electronics (IME)

Invisible Functionality, Visible Design

IME (In-Mold Electronics) technology, also known as plastronics, enables the integration of electronic circuits directly into three-dimensional plastic parts. This innovation transforms design by combining aesthetics, functionality, and electronics in a single piece—eliminating the need for additional assemblies. At Walter Pack, we lead the development of custom IME solutions, combining technical precision, design, and industrial capacity to create intelligent parts with high added value.

Integrate Electronics and Design into a Single Part

The IME In-Mold Electronics Revolution Is Here

How Does IME Technology Work?

The IME process combines three key phases:

Printing of electronic circuits onto technical films using conductive inks.
Thermoforming of the film to adapt it to curved and complex surfaces.
Injection molding, which encapsulates the electronics into a functional, durable, and aesthetically flawless part.

This process enables the creation of lighter, thinner, and more durable products, while allowing the integration of HMI (Human-Machine Interface) features such as touch controls, backlighting, or haptic feedback.

Applications of Plastronics Across Different Industries

Automotive

Embedded touch interfaces in dashboards, invisible button panels, backlit displays… IME redefines the interior experience by combining functionality with clean, futuristic design.

Home Appliances

Flat surfaces without physical buttons, easy to clean, and with integrated touch controls. Ideal for washing machines, refrigerators, and cooktops.

Medical Devices and Wearables

Flexible electronics integrated into ergonomic materials, perfect for biometric sensors or wearable health monitors.

Consumer Electronics

Thinner, more functional designs in devices such as smart speakers, remote controls, and wearables.

Cada detalle cuenta. Cada pieza es una declaración de innovación.

Why Choose Walter Pack?

In an environment defined by cost pressures, product digitalization, and the need for sustainability, Walter Pack positions itself as a comprehensive technology partner for market-leading brands.

Full vertical integration: We internally master all processes of IML, IMF, and IME, from design to mass production.
Turnkey solutions: We develop and manufacture functional and decorative parts using advanced technologies such as Cover Lens, backlighting, haptics, and day-night features.
International and close presence: We manufacture in Europe and North America, reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring stable supply chains.
Experts in design and functionality: Our engineering and Color & Trim teams collaborate with clients to tailor each solution to their technical and aesthetic needs.
Committed to sustainability: We are part of the United Nations Global Compact and develop products with eco-design, recyclability, and certified materials criteria.

Walter Pack combines technology, design, and advanced manufacturing to respond to the new ways of interacting with devices.

IME: Fewer Components, More Innovation

Save space, reduce costs, and improve design

Interfaces táctiles avanzadas con IME

Thanks to our experience in functional decoration and electronic integration, we develop IME solutions compatible with the most advanced market trends:

Intuitive interaction with surfaces
Backlighting, haptic feedback, and touch gestures
Reduction of parts, materials, and processes

Tailored Services

Design and development of custom IME solutions
Prototyping, validation, and industrial-scale production
Integration of HMI interfaces on curved or complex surfaces
Technical advice and ongoing support

Request Personalized Consultation

Our technical team will help you analyze the feasibility of your project and propose the most suitable IME solution.

Prototyping, Design, and Scale Production

From the initial phase to mass manufacturing, we support you at every stage of the process.

Quality Assurance, Confidentiality, and Technical Support

We have state-of-the-art facilities and a full commitment to technical excellence, the confidentiality of your designs, and ongoing support.

Frequently Asked Questions About IME and Plastronics (FAQ)

What is the difference between plastronics and traditional electronics?
Plastronics integrates electronic circuits directly into three-dimensional plastic parts using technologies like In-Mold Electronics (IME). This approach allows for seamless integration of electronics and design, resulting in lighter, thinner, and more durable components with complex shapes.

In contrast, traditional electronics typically involve separate circuit boards and components assembled into housings, which can increase weight, size, and complexity. Plastronics reduces assembly steps and enables more ergonomic, aesthetic, and functional product designs.
What advantages does IME have over conventional electronic systems?
Lower weight, increased durability, greater design freedom, reduced assembly costs, and improved user experience.
What materials are used in the IME process?
The IME process typically uses thermoplastic materials that are compatible with injection molding and electronic integration. Common materials include:
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Good mechanical strength and surface finish.
- Polycarbonate (PC): High impact resistance and thermal stability.
- Polypropylene (PP): Chemical resistance and flexibility.
- PMMA (Acrylic): Optical clarity and UV resistance.
- PET: Lightweight and durable, used in some applications.
The choice of material depends on the specific application requirements such as mechanical properties, aesthetics, and environmental resistance.
In which industries is this technology applied?
IME technology is applied across various sectors, including:
- Automotive: Interior components, control panels, and touch interfaces.
- Consumer Electronics: Device housings, user interfaces, and smart controls.
- Home Appliances: Decorative and functional panels with integrated electronics.
- Medical Devices: Sterile housings, instrument panels, and wearable health monitors.
- Industrial Equipment: Durable, integrated control units and displays.
- Aerospace: Lightweight, multifunctional components with embedded electronics.
IME enables compact, durable, and aesthetically pleasing electronic integration tailored to each sector’s needs.

Want to integrate electronics without compromising design?

The IME revolution is underway. If you’re looking for invisible functionality and visible design, we are your partner.

IME In Mold Electronics