Your next package label could be an interactive LED screen

Imagine receiving your much awaited delivery to find that the traditional paper label was replaced with an electronic screen — it may soon be possible.

Researchers from the University of Sheffield have developed a new way of attaching electronic screens to paper-based packaging that can display messages to customers. The development could have a major impact on the packaging industry.

The scientists teamed up with a technology company called Novalia to create a new way of displaying information that could potentially be used in greetings cards or products where a customer could receive a simple message.

Down the road, the researchers envision that the technology could even incorporate a countdown timer on the side of a packet to indicate when a timed product was ready. For example, waiting until your hair-dye or pregnancy test is ready.

“The paper-based packaging industry is worth billions of dollars. This innovative system we have developed with the University of Sheffield could give manufacturers a way to gain market share by being able to distinguish its products from competitors,” said Chris Jones from Novalia.

The development of these electronic displays involves printing electronic tracks onto paper and then fixing low-cost electronics and a polymer LED display to the paper using an adhesive capable of conducting electricity.

The researchers and Novalia also constructed a touch-pad keyboard on the paper so that users can navigate the LED display.

So far product testing has taken place on paper, but the process could even be printed on other surfaces.

To further advance the product, the team will create a fully flexible organic displays onto a plastic substrate and fix it onto the electronic tracks. An important aspect in the development of these device will be keeping the LEDs low-cost and flexible.

“Labels on packaging could become much more innovative, and allow customers to interact with and explore new products. The use of displays or light emitting panels on packaging will also allow companies to communicate brand awareness in a more sophisticated manner,” said David Lidzey from the University’s Department of Physics and Astronomy.