OEM: Mercedes-Benz, Deutschland, Stuttgart Supplier: Robert Bosch GmbH, Deutschland, Stuttgart Industry sector: Speedometers and other dials and gauges

Part design:

A multi-functional instrument panel manufactured by system supplier Robert Bosch GmbH is used in the cockpit of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The black parts of the panel’s visible surface without displays are covered by a flat film printed on the reverse. The OEM required a specific matte finish and a precise gloss level for this film. In addition, the matte side of the film required temporary protection. These requirements were satisfied using a film concept from BÖ-LA Siebdrucktechnik GmbH. The concept is based on our Makrofol® TP 247 polycarbonate film. The matte side of the film is masked with a flexible, removable protective film – an innovation in this area of application. BÖ-LA’s technical specification represented a particular challenge. For example, we had to ensure that the protective film is sufficiently adhesive to stop it coming loose when the carrier film is being printed but also that it can easily be removed from the carrier film so that it is not damaged during processing. It also proved quite a challenge to satisfy the very precise specifications relating to the matte side of the film in terms of surface finish and, above all, gloss level.