Case partners with California firm to enable new microbattery-based communications devices
Case chemist develops technology to create "smart" packing label
May 4, 2004
 A new partnership between Case Western Reserve University and a California manufacturer of ink jet print heads could be the first step in bringing to life a wide variety of new communications devices.
Case has entered into a three-year development agreement with Ink Jet Technology Inc. of San Jose to commercialize a process for producing and applying micro batteries. The process was developed by Daniel Scherson, professor of chemistry at Case, and is similar to the way ink from a computer printer is applied to paper.
Scherson explained that the ability to produce tiny batteries and have them adhere to a wide variety of surfaces will enable the development of other products.
"The technology to build a 'smart' packing label that can transmit information about the contents of its package has existed for some time, but no one has bothered to build it because there was no way to power it," Scherson explained. "Micro batteries that can adhere to most surfaces will provide the power source for these kinds of devices."
Scherson said the partnership should lead to a prototype device for applying the micro batteries in six to 12 months.
"We're very pleased to be working with Ink Jet Technology on this project," said Casey Porto, associate vice president for technology transfer at Case. "They have some of the leading technology in print heads, and we believe they can deliver the precision and accuracy Dan's technology requires in order to be effective."
Chuck Griggs, president and chief executive officer of Ink Jet Technologies said, "We're happy to have this chance to work with Case Western. This is a very exciting project, and I think a lot of interesting technologies will come out of it."
Scherson applied for a patent on his technology in 2001. It is under review at the U.S. Patent Office.
About Case Western Reserve University
Case is among the nation's leading research institutions. Founded in 1826
and shaped by the unique merger of the Case Institute of Technology and Western
Reserve University, Case is distinguished by its strengths in education, research,
service, and experiential learning. Located in Cleveland, Case offers nationally
recognized programs in the Arts and Sciences, Dental Medicine, Engineering,
Law, Management, Medicine, Nursing, and Social Work. http://www.case.edu.
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