TNO at Holst Centre pioneers printed electronics with an extensive portfolio of breakthrough technologies. One of the most promising innovations of the past years is 3D printed microelectronics. This technology boosts the performance of next-generation electronic devices like sensors and medical instruments where volumetric constraints apply. It combines free form structural and electronic manufacturing in a single step. This means there is no longer a need for separate circuit boards or electronics layers, giving complete three-dimensional design freedom and inherent protection from dust and dirt.
About the position
TNO’s approach to fabricating microelectronics utilizes an advanced 3D printing method that combines stereolithography printing with a foil coating system. The capabilities of this technology in the micro range is outstanding. Yet printing more bulky objects is not feasible within the system, as the thickness is currently limited to ~1mm. To overcome this limitation, you will be working on processes to link the novel 3D microelectronics platform to more conventional SLA 3D printing.
What we expect from you
In this internship you will develop knowledge and know how about both printing methods and the systems behind it. Your tasks will be:
Literature study: study the principles of SLA printing and the ranging material properties.
Design: use CAD and/or layout software to design multiple test structures.
Define machine and material parameters and demonstrate specs involved with this transfer (e.g. resolution, alignment, object height..).
Testing: test the capabilities and limitations of both systems and the transferring method(s).
Prototyping: together with the team, think of demonstrators utilizing both printing of microelectronics and bulky free form objects (e.g. wearables, hearing aids, drones ….).
Knowledge transfer: participate in team meetings and discuss your progress.
Your expertise
You are an ambitious student with a background in mechanical engineering, material science or (applied) physics. You are eager to learn about our advanced manufacturing techniques for microelectronics. Have good communication skills in English and describe yourself as independent, but also a team player at the same time. You are looking for an Internship (preferably graduation) with a (preferred) minimal duration of 6 months.
Have we sparked your interest?
Would you like to work in a challenging atmosphere with highly skilled (and verry nice) co-workers? Then please apply for this internship now!
Contact sophie.suijdendorp@tno.nl for more information about the internship and the selection process.