Interactive packaging is an emerging research area in recent years. It brings people convenient and smart lives, reduces consumption of traditional packaging materials and direct or indirect labor costs as well. Being integrated in interactive packaging, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology becomes one of the most proactive development enablers. In this paper, an interactive and intelligent packaging solution integrating passive RFID system and Controlled Delamination Material (CDM) is given at first. Package opening action is electrically controlled by the RFID system. CDM is primarily used in aerospace applications in the past and the conductor/adhesive joint can be easily opened by applying a little electric power on to the material. Some related works will be shown about the electrochemical characteristics of CDM in order to facilitate the system design. A demonstration system was developed and the test results have proved feasibility of the solution and shown the potential of low cost for mass production. Based on this solution, an interactive medication package for pervasive healthcare is further developed, using EPCglobal Gen2 RFID technology. It will make the medication being accessible for patient only at the prescribed dose and time, and medication taking information will be delivered as well. Such medication package will not only give unprecedented high patient compliance, but also improve the communication between patients and healthcare staffs. / QC 20111202

Over the past decades, technological advancements have made everyday objects smart, and naturally, these developments have reached the packaging industry too. Packaging equipped with sensors and chips can provide new experiences to its customers and one of the technologies that has shown its potential to contribute to this is Near Field Communication (NFC). Previous implementations of NFC in product packaging were limited to higher-end products. However, production costs of the chips have dropped substantially and has led to more adaptations. With more and more products using the technology, more consumers will get exposed to NFC- enabled packaging. Generation Z is one of those consumer groups. Thus, this study aimed to explore how NFC technology embedded in product packaging can influence the user experience for Generation Z and their relationships with brands. To achieve this goal, a qualitative approach was implemented, and 5 semi-structured interviews were conducted to get an understanding of the members of the generation’s view on NFC-enabled packaging. Emerging themes included added value, brand image, ease of use, right product, and environmental concerns. The findings from this study revealed the potential of NFC-embedded packaging and highlights the benefits it can provide to Generation Z but also several pain points and considerations.