My name is Yuval Ayali. I am an Industrial Designer, Researcher, and Lecturer at the Negev SCE School of Architecture, with a focus on digital fabrication and technological innovation. My practice centers on finding new ways to merge materials, processes, and digital tools into coherent, innovative and refined design outcomes. My work has been presented internationally, including at the Venice Architecture Biennale, Jerusalem Design Week, and other leading design events.

I am currently developing a lamp made entirely from a single flexible PET-based PCB. The piece is shipped flat as a two-dimensional circuit sheet and then folded into a three-dimensional lampshade that functions both as the structural body and as the light source.

This project is a research-driven investigation into the aesthetic and functional potential of transparent and flexible PCBs. It questions the common practice of concealing electronics within plastic enclosures and instead proposes an approach where the circuit is visible, essential and embedded to the final form. In this design, the PCB serves simultaneously as the core electronic system and as the main physical structure, merging form and function into one expressive surface. Above all, this approach highlights transparency in technology as a way to reveal processes, encourage understanding, and celebrate the inherent beauty of electronic components. Additionally, it might introduce possibilities for more sustainable design by potentially reducing the need for separate plastic housings and minimizing material waste and assembly time.

On a technical level, the lamp uses a simple single-layer flexible PET-based PCB populated with 2835 SMD LEDs (150 mA each), 0805 12-ohm resistors, and a standard 6-pin USB Type-C connector for power. The choice of a USB Type-C connector makes the lamp highly accessible and compatible with common power sources, while its low-voltage design ensures safety during use. Once folded, it delivers an estimated total light output of around 400–500 lumens, creating a soft and even illumination while preserving a clean, transparent aesthetic.

At this stage of the project I'm focused on creating a fully functional prototype. Moving forward, I plan to explore further possibilities related to structural design and technological potential, including variations in size, modular configurations, and adaptations for different contexts, functions and users scenario.

I believe this project aligns perfectly with PCBWay’s commitment to innovation and its expertise in producing high-quality, transparent, and flexible PCBs. PCBWay's advanced manufacturing capabilities, wide range of materials, and dedication to supporting experimental projects make it an ideal partner for this research. By collaborating on this project, PCBWay can further demonstrate its leadership in pushing the boundaries of PCB technology to a broad international audience of designers, researchers, and innovators.

I am seeking support to fabricate the transparent PCB prototype. In exchange, I will document and share the development process in detail, credit PCBWay in all presentations and publications, and actively promote the collaboration through social media, exhibitions, and design networks.

Attached to this submission are photos from earlier versions and experiments using conductive ink and DIY copper etching, as well as an updated paper prototype showing the current structural design, PCB traces, and component layout both in flat and assembled (3D) configurations.

Image 1 - a paper prototype showing the current structural design, PCB traces, and component layout both in flat and assembled (3D) configurations.

Images 2,3,4 - earlier versions and experiments using conductive ink and DIY copper etching methods.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I am happy to provide technical drawings, renderings, or any further information or files upon request.

Best regards, Yuval Ayali

• Electronics Aesthetics
• Transparent Technology
• Open Technology
• Lighting
• Digital Fabrication
• Research
• experimental design
• flexible PCB
• transparent PCB