Nissha IMD and IML, Simultaneous injection-decoration technologies, are the decoration technologies that transfer a printed layer or insert a multi-colored film on the surface of the molded parts. The components manufactured with IMD, IML are created as cover parts with an aesthetically pleasing appearance as follows.
- Graphic design for the superior appearance of medical devices
Nissha IMD and IML, Simultaneous injection-decoration technologies, are the decoration technologies that transfer a printed layer or insert a multi-colored film on the surface of the molded parts. The components manufactured with IMD, IML are created as cover parts with an aesthetically pleasing appearance as follows.
IMD and IML Enabling Diverse Design Possibilities
Nissha’s IMD and IML are in-mold decoration technologies in which a decorative film is placed inside the mold, enabling surface decoration of molded parts to be completed simultaneously with injection molding.
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IMD（In-mold Decoration）
A technology that transfers only the printed layer from a decorative film onto the surface of molded parts. With IMD, molding and decoration are performed in a single process.
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IML（In-mold Labeling）
A technology in which a decorative film is inserted into the surface of molded parts. IML allows decorative films to be applied to molded parts with deep or complex geometries.
- *IMD and IML are registered trademarks of Nissha Co., Ltd.
- *IMD is an abbreviation for “In-mold Decoration” and is a proprietary term coined by Nissha to describe a technology in which decoration and molding are performed simultaneously using transfer foil within an injection mold. IML is an abbreviation for “In-mold Labeling.”
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- Resin type
- Moldable resins include PS, PP, ABS, acrylic, PC, and other commonly used thermoplastic resins.
Based on customer resin requirements, we evaluate and determine the most suitable processing conditions.
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- Vacuum Forming of Plastic Films
- In addition to injection molding, we offer vacuum forming for plastic films.
We have experience in vacuum forming plastic films such as acrylic, ABS, and PP.
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Graphic design is important also for medical settings
The cover panels of medical devices are generally simple. Resins with a single color, such as white, are molded, and most of the switches and product logos are printed in a single color such as black and blue. We believe that more versatile graphical designs are important for the cover panels of medical devices for the following two reasons.
To prevent erroneous operations and improve safety
In single color printing, all operation buttons are in the same color. It is therefore difficult to differentiate between the buttons, and the wrong button may be pressed. For example, what if the buttons are color-coded by function? Multi-colored printed panels possibly enhance operational safety.
To brighten the medical setting
Hospitals are also residential spaces for healthcare workers and patients who are staying there for a long period. Such people may feel psychological stress if they are in residential spaces with boring machines. Recently, efforts are being made to brighten hospitals by adding certain designs, e.g., infusion stands with animal motifs, CT room ceilings with the picture of a blue sky painted across it. We believe that our IMD and IML technologies that provide medical devices with graphical designs contribute to brighten the medical setting.
Medical Device Manufacturing Case Studies and Application Examples
We welcome inquiries regarding medical device designs
