CES 2023: KURZ presents futuristic and sustainable computer housing trends in Las Vegas

Fürth/Germany, December 13, 2022: CES has been one of the world’s most influential tech events for decades. It is also one of the most important platforms for LEONHARD KURZ to present pioneering surface solutions and groundbreaking design options. From January 5 to 8, 2023, visitors to stand 4367 will be able to experience not only numerous highlights from the automotive and sustainability sectors, but also spectacular and sustainable design concepts for the consumer electronics of tomorrow.

In line with the KURZ trade fair theme ‘Mission Infinity,’ the focus of the presentation is on three forward-looking computer designs, each of which combines high functionality with outstanding, sustainably produced design. KURZ’s innovative complete solutions enable versatile finishing of surfaces as well as the integration of backlighting, Shy Tech elements, and touch functionality. “The almost infinite design possibilities reflect the trend that technical devices are increasingly becoming a visual highlight through customization and appealing decoration, and thus the centerpiece of any lounge, office, or gaming room,” explains Nick Wagner, Head of Business Area Plastic Decoration at LEONHARD KURZ. “KURZ’s proven decoration processes enable the energy-efficient and cost-efficient finishing of matte or high-gloss surfaces - with environmentally friendly indium-based partial metallizations on request.”

Consumer electronics design reimagined

At CES 2023, KURZ will demonstrate the new freedom of design using various pioneering computer prototypes manufactured using In-Mold Decoration (IMD) and In-Mold Electronics (IME). The GAMING design vision offers a housing with backlighting, 3D PLASTX®-effect, and transparent water glow design. 5G technology is also supported. The FUTURE design vision is characterized by its smart crystal design with colored backlighting effects and impressive spaceship metallization. In addition, 5G support is on board here, along with futuristic Shy Tech design and PolyTC^® touch sensors.

All three design concepts have been created with sustainability in mind. Recycled materials can be used to manufacture the housings, which can be given a high-quality, appealing finish. In addition, all KURZ decorations used are easily recyclable and therefore don’t affect the recyclability of the components. “The KURZ design visions impressively demonstrate that consumer electronics can also be conceived and produced sustainably from the ground up,” says Nick Wagner.

Surface protection for consumer electronics - antiviral and heavy-metal-free

KURZ will be presenting a new, heavy-metal-free solution in the area of surface hygiene at CES 2023: BIOFENSE® ANTIVIRAL. In addition to antibacterial and antifungal properties, a consistent ANTIVIRAL effect is now also achieved. Surfaces finished with BIOFENSE® ANTIVIRAL therefore also reliably repel viruses such as SARS-Cov-2, making the technology especially suitable for touch screens and user interfaces. In order for the effect to develop, only a small amount of light in the form of daylight is required. BIOFENSE® ANTIVIRAL can be used in IMD or insert molding processes and is equally effective in both, as confirmed by testing through renowned institutions. Independent laboratories have already confirmed its long-term effect according to ISO 21702.

The transparent coating is suitable for high-gloss surfaces and can be combined with creative designs, backlighting, and even Shy Tech elements. KURZ also kept sustainability in mind during development, as the components coated with BIOFENSE® ANTIVIRAL remain recyclable.

ValiGate®: Certainty about product authenticity

Visitors to CES will also discover how manufacturers and brand owners from the consumer electronics sector can reliably protect their products against counterfeiting and unequivocally prove their authenticity. The FUTURE design concept will be equipped with ValiGate® technology from KURZ subsidiary SCRIBOS. ValiGate® works with double encryption, unique security patterns with intelligent structure, and QR codes with copy-protected identity. The innovative security labeling is manufactured with proprietary technologies and offers end customers simple and fast product authentication. Authenticity can be verified within fractions of a second by scanning the QR code with a smartphone on the fully biodegradable seal.

But ValiGate® can do even more - for example, in conjunction with an augmented reality experience, it can also strengthen and consolidate customer loyalty. Visitors to the KURZ stand will have the opportunity to participate in an augmented reality experience to see how ValiGate® can combine increasingly important proof of authenticity with entertainment content. In this way, LEONHARD KURZ presents exciting design inspiration on two levels: In both the real and the virtual world.

Online presence for CES 2023

LEONHARD KURZ is also using its trade fair presence in Las Vegas to showcase a comprehensive online presentation of the company’s innovations and exhibition highlights. Visit www.ces.plastic-decoration.com for detailed information and extras such as videos or 3D animations on CES products and topics.

At a glance

CES 2023 - from January 5 to 8, 2023
LEONHARD KURZ Stiftung & Co. KG: Stand 4367
Our trade fair presentation focuses on automotive, consumer electronics, sustainability