NextFlex, America’s Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE) Manufacturing Institute, recently announced a new type of flexible microcontroller module that could have big implications for engineers, prototypers, and hobbyists everywhere. Here’s how this new technology can bring about many advancements to the rapidly growing realm of Arduino microcontroller modules.
NextFlex’s new technology can bring many advancements to the rapidly growing realm of microcontrollers. Image source: NextFlex
The advancement that NetFlex has made to Arduinos comes in response to several problems that have plagued the original open-source microcontroller modules. A microcontroller is a device with a programmable control chip with various input and output slots, which can be programmed using a simple code to control other various devices or read sensors and relay the information to a computer or other device. Arduinos are open-source modules based on a microcontroller, and they run on a notoriously easy-to-learn code, which is making them extremely sought after for prototyping new technology.
The popularity of Arduinos in the last few years has grown rapidly with various iterations available, such as the Arduino mini, but until now, they have been limited by certain physical restrictions. Typical Arduinos are built using standard PCB boards and are, therefore, rather rigid and bulky. Due to their exposed electronics, they are also rather fragile. NextFlex has solved these problems with a new manufacturing process — flexible hybrid electronics (FHEs) — that uses flexible plastic instead of a PCB and a printed conductive layer allowing the modules to be fully flexible as well as highly durable.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
You must verify your email address before signing in. Check your email for your verification email, or enter your email address in the form below to resend the email.
Please confirm the information below before signing in.
{* #socialRegistrationForm *}
{* firstName *}
{* lastName *}
{* displayName *}
{* emailAddress *}
By clicking "Sign In", you confirm that you accept our terms of service and have read and understand privacy policy.
{* /socialRegistrationForm *}
Almost Done
Please confirm the information below before signing in. Already have an account? Sign In.