IPC, the industrial technical centre with expertise in plastic and composite innovation, is presenting two prototypes: an intelligent motorcycle helmet and a multifunctional wind-turbine blade, at JEC World 2019 from March 12-14 in Paris. The helmet is made in partnership with creative paper manufacturer Arjowiggins and the wind turbine blade with CEA.

Developing predictive maintenance is an important issue when it comes to avoiding sudden, serious accidents. The wind turbine blade to be presented at JEC World detects potential damage that could occur on the blade structure beforehand, making it possible to carry out preventive repairs on the one-meter-long blade, said IPC in a media statement. Printed organic electronics are used in the demonstrator to integrate strain gauges and the temperature detection function.

The helmet manufacturing process is based on the use of composites and the infusion process. The motorcycle helmet is equipped with sensors and NFC communication functions. The objective is to add new features to improve the user experience, without impacting security. “The printed organic electronics are used in the helmet to allow remote temperature changes,” said Lionel Tenchine, programme line manager for ‘Technologies for Intelligent Products’ at IPC.

“With these two prototypes, IPC demonstrates its ability to functionalise composites, particularly with printed electronic components. Live demos will be organised during the three days of the show on our booth,” said Bertrand Fillon, general manager of research at IPC. (PC)