This thesis investigates inkjet-printed flexible antennas fabricated on paper substrates as a system-level solution for ultra-low-cost and mass production of RF structures. These modules are designed for the UHF Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Tags and Wireless Sensor Nodes (WSN); however the approach could be easily extended to other microwave and wireless applications. Chapter 1 serves as an introduction to RFID technology and its capabilities while listing the major challenges that could potentially hinder RFID practical implementation. Chapter 2 discusses the benefits of using paper as a substrate for high-frequency applications, reporting its very good electrical/dielectric performance up to at least 1 GHz. The dielectric properties are studied by using the microstrip ring resonator. Brief discussion on Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) is also given in this chapter. Chapter 3 gives details about the inkjet printing technology, including the characterization of the conductive ink, which consists of nano-silver-particles, while highlighting the importance of this technology as a fast and simple fabrication technique especially on flexible organic (e.g.LCP) or paper-based substrates. Chapter 4 focuses on antenna designs. Four examples are given to provide: i) matching techniques to complex IC impedance, ii) proof of concept of inkjet printing on paper substrate through measurement results, iii) demonstration of a fully-integrated wireless sensor modules on paper and show a 2D sensor integration with an RFID tag module on paper. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by explaining the importance of this work in creating a first step towards an environmentally friendly generation of "green" RF electronics and modules.

<p>U disertaciji su predstavljena istraživanja uticajnih parametara<br />digitalne štampe na toplotna svojstva odjevnih predmeta, pri čemu su<br />kao parametri procesa štampe ispitani uticaji različitog broja<br />nanosa boje u štampi i različite tonske pokrivenosti. Odštampani<br />uzorci podvrgnuti su ispitivanjima toplotnih karakteristika<br />štampanih tekstilnih materijala. Na bazi analize izabranih<br />parametara razvijen je model toplotnih svojstava štampanih odjevnih<br />predmeta koji ima poseban značaj za predviđanje toplotno fiziološke<br />udobnosti odjeće tokom upotrebe.</p> / <p>У дисертацији су представљена истраживања утицајних параметара<br />дигиталне штампе на топлотна својства одјевних предмета, при чему су<br />као параметри процеса штампе испитани утицаји различитог броја<br />наноса боје у штампи и различите тонске покривености. Одштампани<br />узорци подвргнути су испитивањима топлотних карактеристика<br />штампаних текстилних материјала. На бази анализе изабраних<br />параметара развијен је модел топлотних својстава штампаних одјевних<br />предмета који има посебан значај за предвиђање топлотно физиолошке<br />удобности одјеће током употребе.</p>

The outstanding electrical and mechanical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) may offer solutions to realizing high-mobility and high-bendability thin-film transistors (TFTs) for the emerging flexible electronics. This thesis aims to develop low-cost ink-jet printing techniques for high-performance TFTs based on pristine SWCNTs. The main challenge of this work is to suppress the effects of “metallic SWCNT contamination” and improve the device electrical performance. To this end, this thesis entails a balance between experiments and simulations.   First, TFTs with low-density SWCNTs in the channel region are fabricated by utilizing standard silicon technology. Their electrical performance is investigated in terms of throughput, transfer characteristics, dimensional scaling and dependence on electrode metals. The demonstrated insensitivity of electrical performance to the electrode metals lifts constrains on choosing metal inks for ink-jet printing.   Second, Monte Carlo models on the basis of percolation theory have been established, and high-efficiency algorithms have been proposed for investigations of large-size stick systems in order to facilitate studies of TFTs with channel length up to 1000 times that of the SWCNTs. The Monte Carlo simulations have led to fundamental understanding on stick percolation, including high-precision percolation threshold, universal finite-size scaling function, and dependence of critical conductivity exponents on assignment of component resistance. They have further generated understanding of practical issues regarding heterogeneous percolation systems and the doping effects in SWCNT TFTs.   Third, Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to explore new device structures for performance improvement of SWCNT TFTs. In particular, a novel device structure featuring composite SWCNT networks in the channel is predicted by the simulation and subsequently confirmed experimentally by another research group. Through Monte Carlo simulations, the compatibility of previously-proposed long-strip-channel SWCNT TFTs with ink-jet printing has also been demonstrated.   Finally, relatively sophisticated ink-jet printing techniques have been developed for SWCNT TFTs with long-strip channels. This research spans from SWCNT ink formulation to device design and fabrication. SWCNT TFTs are finally ink-jet printed on both silicon wafers and flexible Kapton substrates with fairly high electrical performance. / QC 20100910

Inkjet-printing is a technology which has for the last decade been exploited to fabricate flexible RF components such as antennas and planar circuit elements. However, the limitations of feature size and single layer fabrication prevented the demonstration of compact, and high efficiency RF components operating above 10 GHz into the mm-Wave regime which is critical to silicon integration and fully-printed modules. To overcome these limitations, a novel vertically-integrated fully inkjet-printed process has been developed and characterized up to the mm-Wave regime which incorporates up to five highly conductive metal layers, variable thickness dielectric layers ranging from 200 nm to 200 um, and low resistance through-layer via interconnects. This vertically-integrated inkjet printed electronics process, tagged VIPRE, is a first of its kind, and is utilized to demonstrate fully additive RF capacitors, inductors, antennas, and RF sensors operating up to 40 GHz. In this work, the first-ever fully inkjet printed multi-layer RF devices operating up to 40 GHz with high-performance are demonstrated, along with a demonstration of the processing techniques which have enabled the printing of multi-layer RF structures with multiple metal layers, and dielectric layers which are orders of magnitude thicker than previoulsy demonstrated inkjet-printed structures. The results of this work show the new possibilities in utilizing inkjet printing for the post-processing of high-efficiency RF inductors, capacitors, and antennas and antenna arrays on top of silicon to reduce chip area requirements, and for the production of entirely printed wireless modules.

This thesis investigates inkjet printing of fully-integrated modules fabricated on organic substrates as a system-level solution for ultra-low-cost and eco-friendly mass production of wireless sensor modules. Prototypes are designed and implemented in both traditional FR-4 substrate and organic substrate. The prototype on organic substrate is referred to as a Smart Wireless Integrated Module (SWIM). Parallels are drawn between FR-4 manufacturing and inkjet printing technology, and recommendations are discussed to enable the potential of inkjet printing technology. Finally, this thesis presents novel applications of SWIM technology in the area of wearable and implantable electronics. Chapter 1 serves as an introduction to inkjet printing technology on organic substrates, wireless sensor networks (WSNs), and the requirements for low-power consumption, low-cost, and eco-friendly technology. Chapter 2 discusses the design of SWIM and its implementation using traditional manufacturing techniques on FR-4 substrate. Chapter 3 presents a benchmark prototype of SWIM on paper substrate. Challenges in the manufacturing process are addressed, and solutions are proposed which suggest future areas of research in inkjet printing technology. Chapter 4 presents novel applications of SWIM technology in the areas of implantable and wearable electronics. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by discussing the importance of this work in creating a bridge between current inkjet printing technology and its future.

As drop-on-demand (DOD) applications continue to gain ground in desktop inkjet-printing, 3D printing, fluid mixing, and other areas the demand for higher frequency operations are beginning to push against the current physical boundaries in DOD technology. The current research is exploring the possibility of controlling drop volume and velocity at high frequency ranges where meniscus vibrations can occur between drop formations and affect drop formation characteristics. A periodic voltage is applied to a piezoelectric disk in order to generate pressure fluctuations in a single nozzle droplet generator, causing the fluid meniscus at the nozzle to vibrate. A single stronger pulse is then superimposed over the periodic waveform at different phases in order to drive drop ejection. The characteristics of the resulting drop, specifically the volume and velocity, are experimentally measured using a high speed camera with precise timing control. The results of these experiments are then compared to a lumped element model (LEM) developed for the droplet generator geometry used. Within the LEM model framework, special attention was given to the definition of a novel method by which one can measure drop volume within an electroacoustic circuit and also allow meniscus dynamics to affect present and future drop formations. Experimental results indicate a strong dependence of both drop volume and drop velocity on the phase of the vibrating meniscus at the start of drop formation. Positive meniscus displacements and momentums resulted in large drop volumes and velocities while negative displacements could reduce drop volume or altogether eliminate drop formation. Specifically, positive displacements and momentum of a vibrating meniscus could lead to drop volumes approximately 50% larger than the original drop volume without a vibrating meniscus. Meanwhile, negative meniscus displacements and momentums were shown to have the ability to completely prevent drop formation. Additional potential for drop characteristic control with a vibrating meniscus is discussed alongside observations on the stabilizing affect the vibrating meniscus appears to have on drop velocity as a function of time. Also, flow visualization of the drop formation is provided to demonstrate the added affect the meniscus vibrations have on the drop shapes and break-off profiles. The LEM model presented demonstrates qualitative agreement with the experimental model, but fails to quantitatively predict drop volumes. Sources of error for the LEM model and potential improvements are discussed. / Graduation date: 2012

Le marché des capteurs de gaz n’a pas cessé d’évoluer depuis ces dernières décennies en passant d’une technologie basée principalement sur des oxydes métalliques vers des nouveaux matériaux nanostructurés. En effet, les applications actuelles demandent des capteurs robustes, à faible consommation d'énergie, faible coût, conformables, sensibles et sélectives. Dans ce contexte, la recherche des matériaux sensibles à base de nanostructures de carbone, ainsi que des nouvelles technologies de fabrication (permettant la miniaturisation et la conformabilité des dispositifs) est nécessaire. Une de solutions actuellement à l’étude concerne l’utilisation de matériaux innovants tels que les nanotubes de carbone (CNTs). Dans ce manuscrit, les CNTs sont présentés ainsi que leurs très bonnes propriétés électriques et mécaniques. Leurs dimensions nous donnent une surface spécifique considérable et donc, la possibilité d’une grande sensibilité. Leur aptitude à être fonctionnalisés avec différents radicaux fait qu’ils puissent être sélectifs à une espèce donnée. Parmi les technologies émergentes apparues récemment, l’impression par jet d’encre est une technologie de déposition des couches minces très utilisée actuellement, car elle reste versatile grâce à sa facilité d’utilisation. La résolution et les possibilités d’impression sur différents types de substrat qu’on dispose, restent des atouts très importants. Un aspect très important qui a été peu étudié est la modélisation des couches minces des éléments sensibles. Concernant les couches imprimées des solutions contenant des nanotubes de carbone, très peu de travaux ont été répertoriés actuellement, et les modèles existants sont assez complexes. Dans nos travaux, nous nous concentrons sur la modélisation des couches minces sous la forme de motifs imprimés par jet d’encre. Des couches de solutions contenant des nanotubes de carbone sont déposées dans des structures RF, dans le but de pouvoir les appliquer dans la détection des gaz. / The gas sensor domain has continued to evolve over the past few decades by moving primarily from a technology based on metal oxides to new nanostructured materials. Indeed, for modern applications in today's world robust sensors with low power consumption, low cost, conformable, sensitive and selective is desirable. In this context, mark-sensitive materials based on carbon nanostructures, as well as new manufacturing technologies (allowing miniaturization and conformability devices) is required. One solution which is currently under consideration is the use of innovative materials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which exhibit very good electrical and mechanical properties. Their dimensions give us a considerable surface area and hence the possibility of high sensitivity. Their ability to be functionalized with different groups makes them very selective to react with a particular target gas. Amongst the emerging technologies, inkjet printing deposition of a very thin film is currently in use as it remains versatile because of its ease of use. The resolution and printing possibilities on different types of substrate have remains very important assets. A very important aspect that has been considered very less is the modeling of thin film sensing elements. Regarding printed layers solutions containing carbon nanotubes, very few works have been currently listed, and the existing models are quite complex. In this work, modeling of thin layers in the form of patterns printed by inkjet has been studied and experimental verifications and their analyses have been carried out successfully. Specific emphasis has been laid on the layers of solutions containing carbon nanotubes deposited in RF structures for application in the detection of gases.

La projection par plasma d'arc de suspension permet d'obtenir des revêtements finement structurés à gradients de propriétés qui répondent aux besoins, par exemple, des applications photocatalytiques, les piles à combustible à oxyde solide ou les revêtements de barrière thermique. Cependant, les torches à plasma, même alimentées par dessources de courant continu régulé, génèrent des jets de plasma fortement fluctuants. Ces instabilités causent des variations importantes dans les transferts thermiques et dynamiques des particules, ce qui diminue la fiabilité et la reproductibilité de la méthode. Par conséquent, des efforts particuliers doivent être faits pour améliorer la projectionpar plasma d'arc de suspension et, ainsi, les propriétés des revêtements. Depuis de nombreuses années, la recherche s'est concentrée sur l'amélioration des transferts de chaleur et de quantité de mouvement entre la matière et le plasma au moyen de la mise au point de nouvelles torches et la réduction des instabilités de l'arc. Cette thèse présenteune nouvelle approche pour la projection par plasma d'arc de suspension. L'étude approfondie des instabilités du plasma sont réalisées ce qui conduit à la production du jet laminaire de plasma pulsé caractérisé par une forte modulation de l'enthalpie spécifique. Ces oscillations régulières de plasma sont associées à l'injection de la suspensionsynchronisée, ce qui est réalisé à l'aide de l'impression à jet d'encre déclenchée par le signal de tension d'arc. Les résultats sont évalués par le système d'imagerie résolue en temps et la spectroscopie d'émission optique résolue en temps. Cette nouvelle méthode offre la possibilité de contrôler les transferts de chaleur et de quantité de mouvemententre les particules et le plasma. / Suspension plasma spraying permits to elaborate finely structured coatings with graded properties which address the needs, for example, in the photocatalytic applications, the solid oxide fuels or the thermal barrier coatings. However, the plasma torches, even powered by dc regulated sources, generate highly fluctuating plasma jets. These instabilities result in large variations in dynamic and heat transfers to particles, what decreases the reproducibility and reliability of the method. Consequently, the special efforts have to be devoted to ameliorate the suspension plasma spraying method and, thus, the properties of the coatings. In recent years, the research has been focused on the improvement of heat and momentum transfers between material and plasma by means of the development of new non-conventional torches and the reduction of arc instabilities. The following dissertation presents a new approach to the suspension plasma spraying. The profound studies of the plasma instabilities are performed, what leads to the production of the pulsed laminar plasma jet characterized by high modulation of the specific enthalpy. These regular plasma oscillations are combined with phased injection of suspension, what is achieved by using the ink-jet printer triggered by the arc voltage signal. The results are evaluated by time-resolved imaging system and the time-resolved emission optical spectroscopy. This new method presents the possibility to control heat and momentum transfers between the particles and the plasma.

No description available.

Wireless power transfer (WPT) systems are important in many areas, such as medical, communication, transportation, and consumer electronics. The underlying WPT system is comprised of a transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX). For biomedical applications, such systems can be implemented on rigid or flexible substrates and can be implanted or wearable. The efficiency of a WPT system is based on power transfer efficiency (PTE). Many WPT system optimization techniques have been explored to achieve the highest PTE possible. These are based on either a figure-of-merit (FOM) approach, quality factor (Q-factor) maximization, or by sweeping values for coil geometries. Four WPT systems for biomedical applications are implemented with inductive coupling. The thesis later presents an optimization technique for finding the maximum PTE of a range of frequencies and coil shapes through frequency, geometry and shape sweeping. Five optimized TX coil designs for different operating frequencies are fabricated for three shapes: square, hexagonal, and octagonal planar-spirals. The corresponding RX is implemented on polyimide tape with ink-jet-print (IJP) silver. At 80 MHz, the maximum measured PTE achieved is 2.781% at a 10 mm distance in the air for square planar-spiral coils.