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Smart packaging with printed indicators could replace costly sensors

Smart packaging with printed indicators could replace costly sensors
Source: interestingengineering
Author: @IntEngineering
Published: 8/28/2025

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Researchers at the University of Vaasa have developed a novel approach to smart packaging by using functional printing inks that change color in response to environmental factors like temperature and humidity. This method offers a low-cost, recyclable alternative to traditional electronic sensors, which are often expensive and complicate recycling processes. Doctoral researcher Jari Isohanni’s work combines these color-changing inks with artificial intelligence (AI), specifically convolutional neural networks, to detect subtle and rapid color changes with near human-eye accuracy. This advancement overcomes limitations of existing machine vision methods that struggle to recognize small, fast changes in ink color, often detecting them too late to prevent spoilage or damage. Isohanni’s research demonstrates that while simple computational methods suffice for recognizing large color differences, AI-based convolutional neural networks excel in scenarios involving subtle and quick changes. The practical implications are significant: printed indicators can be directly applied to packaging at minimal extra cost, enhancing real-time monitoring of product conditions across various industries. Potential applications include tracking food freshness

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IoTsmart-packagingprinted-indicatorsfunctional-inksartificial-intelligencemachine-visionsustainable-sensors