World’s first transparent combined touch and force sensor | 20-04-2026 |

While this newsletter does not normally dive into scientific areas this particular story caught our eye as it seems this kind of sensor technology developed primarily for Human Machine Interface (HMI), and already suitable for medical devices, could eventually find wider applications in packaging. 

PolyIC, a leading provider of printed electronics solutions and a subsidiary of AIPIA member LEONHARD KURZ, is collaborating with Nanomade to develop a new solution for the next generation of interactive surfaces in (HMI) applications.

 Nanomade presented the joint project of both companies for the first time at Touch Taiwan 2026, showcasing the world’s first fully transparent film that combines capacitive touch detection and highly sensitive force measurement in a single system, at exactly the same location. The combined sensor enables transparent, flexible, and illuminated user interfaces without any limitations on function, design, or industrial scalability.

PolyIC produces transparent, flexible capacitive sensor films with printed, transparent, and conductive electrodes. Nanomade has developed a proprietary, transparent nanoparticle-based ink that enables ultra-sensitive force measurement. By combining both components, the companies have developed a sensor that, thanks to its ultra-thin, transparent force-and-touch architecture, offers functionalities that go beyond those of conventional capacitive touch sensors. The light transmission of the sensor and its optical clarity further expand the design possibilities.

Minimalist designs with integrated lighting effects and seamlessly integrated displays are becoming increasingly common in product design. Conventional sensor technology often reaches its limits in terms of both design and functionality. The new sensor meets these requirements for transparency, flexibility, and functionality. It can be integrated into fully transparent or ‘hidden-until-lit’ user interfaces and can also be incorporated into curved and three-dimensionally shaped control elements. Manufacturers can use it without the need for costly new developments or complex additional component integrations..

Additional features that simplify the utilization of user interfaces in everyday life and enhance the user experience include the ability to operate the interface while wearing gloves, as well as reliable performance in damp or wet environments. The sensor can distinguish between contact and targeted pressure, enabling a differentiated evaluation of touches and thus reducing false activations. It also enables safety-critical applications where two physical quantities must be evaluated independently of one another.

The transparent force-and-touch sensor film is suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries, such as medical devices that combine force sensing with touch functionality. With the new transparent Force & Touch sensor film, PolyIC and Nanomade are expanding the technical and design options for HMI applications where the combination of transparency, light, and intelligent force measurement is relevant.

ALL AT AIPIA/AWA SMART PACKAGING WORLD CONGRESS 2026