Electrical interconnection element of a printed circuit board and at least one electrical device, and method of connection
The electrical interconnection organ addresses the challenges of connecting printed circuits on aircraft turbomachines by using cavities for conductive glue, resulting in a reliable, aerodynamic, and industrially viable connection.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2022001302
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-02-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-03-28
- Estimated Expiration
- 2042-02-15
AI Technical Summary
The existing methods for connecting printed circuits on aircraft turbomachine sensors to calculation organs are time-consuming, prone to damage, and can result in short circuits due to the manual application of conductive glue, which is not industrializable and affects aerodynamics.
An electrical interconnection organ with input terminals and output interfaces, featuring cavities for conductive glue to facilitate reliable connections between printed circuits and electrical equipment, while maintaining aerodynamics and allowing for industrializable manufacturing processes.
The solution provides a reliable, sustainable, and quick electrical connection that preserves aerodynamics, reduces the risk of damage and short circuits, and enables industrial-scale manufacturing.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Electrical interconnection element for a printed circuit board and at least one electrical device, and method of connection technical field
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical connection between a printed circuit board and electrical equipment, in particular, between a printed circuit board of an electronic sensor mounted on a mechanical part of an aircraft turbomachine and a computing unit of said aircraft turbomachine.
[0002] In the aeronautical field, it is known to install one or more sensors on mechanical parts of a turbomachine to generally measure temperature, pressure or other physical parameters during the operation of the turbomachine.
[0003] It is particularly known to equip fixed blades, such as compressor rectifier blades or turbine distributor blades, with one or more sensors. Such sensors are connected to a computing unit, such as an electronic board, in order to process the received signals.
[0004] In a known manner, such a sensor comprises a printed circuit board and output traces configured to be connected to the flexible connectors of the computing unit, usually in the form of thin, single-strand enameled copper wires. In order to reduce mass, avoid inducing an imbalance, and minimize friction induced by the presence of the sensors, the circuit is printed on the external surface of the fixed blade. Such a printed circuit board is fragile.
[0005] In practice, connecting the connectors of the computing unit to the output tracks of the printed circuit board is a tedious operation performed entirely by hand. It requires applying a conductive adhesive, such as silver paste, to the output tracks using a brush or syringe. Each connector is then pressed one after the other onto the output tracks until the conductive adhesive has completely dried to establish the electrical connection. This operation, in addition to being time-consuming and impractical for industrialization, has the disadvantage of potentially damaging the printed circuit board by scratching and / or generating a short circuit if the adhesive overflows onto a neighboring output track, particularly if the output tracks are very close together. Furthermore, such a connection is fragile and susceptible to being torn during handling or operation due to aerodynamic stresses (temperature, pressure, etc.).
[0006] Alternatively, it is known to establish the electrical connection by brazing to Tin or wire bonding (the latter method being known by its English acronym "wire bonding") can be used, but this presents the same drawbacks. Relay terminals are also known to be used to connect electrical equipment to the printed circuit board, but this undesirably disrupts airflow and reduces aerodynamics in the aircraft turbomachine.
[0007] The invention thus aims to eliminate at least some of these drawbacks.
[0008] Although the invention originated for the connection of a sensor printed on a fixed blade to a computing unit in an aircraft turbomachine, the invention applies to any mechanical part comprising a printed circuit. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The invention relates to an electrical interconnection device configured to electrically connect a printed circuit board belonging to a mechanical part to at least one electrical device, the printed circuit board comprising a plurality of output tracks, said electrical interconnection device comprising: • a contact surface configured to be fixed to the mechanical part, • a free surface opposite the contact surface, • a plurality of input terminals arranged on the contact surface, each input terminal being configured to be superimposed on an output trace of the printed circuit board, • a plurality of output interfaces arranged on the free surface at a distance from the input terminals and configured to be connected to the electrical equipment, • each input terminal being connected to an output interface by an electrical trace, • at least one input terminal of said plurality of input terminals comprising a cavity configured to receive conductive glue so as to connect the input terminal and the output track together when they are superimposed.
[0010] The electrical interconnection device according to the invention is an intermediary between the printed circuit board and the electrical equipment, facilitating and ensuring the reliability of their electrical connection. Indeed, the input terminals of the electrical interconnection device and the output traces of the printed sensor can be connected simply and conveniently by layering and distributing electrically conductive adhesive in the provided cavity. The cavity facilitates the application and distribution of the conductive adhesive. This results in a reliable mechanical and electrical connection, without the risk of the conductive adhesive overflowing onto the printed circuit board, which could generate a short circuit. Furthermore, the correct amount of conductive adhesive is used. Finally, the cavity receives the conductive adhesive and facilitates the application of this one.
[0011] Furthermore, the contact surface of the electrical interconnecting element facilitates the alignment of the input terminals with the output tracks by direct mounting on the mechanical part. The output interfaces formed on the free surface remain accessible after mounting on the part and are remotely formed to easily connect the electrical equipment. This results in a durable electrical connection that preserves aerodynamics in the case of an engine component, particularly in aircraft turbomachinery, such as an aircraft turbine blade.
[0012] Preferably, each input terminal includes a cavity configured to receive a conductive adhesive so as to connect the input terminal and the output track together when they are superimposed.
[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, each input terminal extends longitudinally, and preferably, the cavity extends over at least a longitudinal portion of the input terminal. Superposition is thus easily achieved, and the connection between the input terminal and the output track is reliable and permanent.
[0014] According to one aspect of the invention, the spacing between two adjacent output interfaces is greater than the spacing between two adjacent input terminals. The electrical equipment can thus be easily connected to the output interfaces, without the risk of scratching or conductive glue overflowing onto the printed circuit board, as in the prior art.
[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the cavity has a feed opening accessible from the free surface or from a peripheral edge of the interconnecting element. The feed opening facilitates the application of the conductive adhesive and supplies the cavity. It is not necessary to apply the adhesive directly into the cavity, which may be of small dimensions, particularly very narrow. This limits the risk of the conductive adhesive overflowing.
[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the electrical interconnecting element comprises, at its peripheral edge, at least one notch into which the feed opening opens. The notch forms a guide for positioning a syringe for injecting glue or similar materials. Preferably, the notch has a circular shape, in particular, centered on the feed opening. Such a notch facilitates feeding, especially when the contact surface is inaccessible, namely when the electrical interconnecting element is fixed to the workpiece. The application of conductive glue becomes easier and can, in particular, be industrialized.
[0017] Preferably, each input terminal is associated with a notch into which the supply opening of said input terminal opens. In other words, the cavity of each input terminal is supplied with conductive glue via a dedicated notch.
[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the cavity of at least one input terminal comprises a The cavity is designed with a capillary structure to promote the distribution of conductive adhesive throughout the cavity. In other words, the cavity is narrow so that the conductive adhesive, under the effect of surface tension, spreads throughout the entire cavity; this phenomenon is known as capillarity. Advantageously, the conductive adhesive is only applied roughly, as it will distribute itself homogeneously within the cavity due to capillary action. Such a capillary cavity thus ensures a sufficient and reliable connection thanks to the even distribution of the conductive adhesive. Thanks to the shape of the cavity, no manual action is required to distribute the conductive adhesive.
[0019] Preferably, the cavity of each input terminal has a capillary structure.
[0020] Preferably, the cavity has a width of less than 1 mm, preferably in less than 0.6mm and preferably less than 0.3mm. Such a narrow cavity has a capillary structure.
[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, at least one input terminal comprises two lateral branches delimiting the cavity, the two lateral branches preferably being conductive. The lateral branches of an input terminal allow for easy alignment with an output trace of the printed circuit board. The cavity is easily defined by the lateral branches. The conductive lateral branches, in conjunction with the conductive adhesive, establish electrical contact with the printed circuit board.
[0022] Preferably, each input terminal comprises two lateral branches delimiting the cavity.
[0023] According to a preferred aspect, the lateral branches have a portion where they are spaced to define the notch. The notch is thus formed in a simple manner, in continuity with the cavity and the feed opening.
[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the electrical interconnection element comprises a plurality of through-holes for fixing. These through-holes allow the electrical interconnection element to be fixed by bonding to the mechanical part. The adhesive can advantageously be applied once the contact surface is positioned against the surface of the mechanical part. The through-holes for fixing also serve a second function, providing a degree of flexibility to the electrical interconnection element and limiting mechanical stress at the fixing point.
[0025] According to a preferred aspect, the electrical interconnecting element has a thin structure. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element has a thickness of less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. Advantageously, such an electrical interconnecting element has a minimal footprint and allows the aerodynamics of the mechanical part to be maintained.
[0026] According to a preferred aspect, the electrical interconnection element comprises a structure Flexible. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element is made of a polymer material. This allows the electrical interconnecting element to conform to the shape of the mechanical part for easy attachment.
[0027] The invention also relates to an additive manufacturing method for the electrical interconnection element as described above.
[0028] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a printed circuit board and an electrical interconnection element as described above, the printed circuit board having a plurality of output tracks, in which: • the contact surface of the electrical interconnection element is fixed to the mechanical part, and • the input terminals of the electrical interconnection device are superimposed on the output tracks of the printed circuit board, at least one input terminal comprising a cavity filled with conductive glue connecting the input terminal together to the output track on which it is superimposed.
[0029] The entire part and electrical interconnection unit provides a reliable and durable connection between the printed circuit board and the input terminals of the electrical interconnection unit, while preserving aerodynamics.
[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the assembly further comprises at least one electrical equipment connected to the output interfaces of the electrical interconnection member so as to be electrically connected to the printed circuit board.
[0031] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the mechanical part is in the form of an engine component, preferably an aircraft turbomachine. Preferably, the mechanical part is in the form of a fixed aircraft turbomachine blade, preferably a compressor stator blade or a turbine distributor blade. The electrical interconnection element advantageously preserves the aerodynamics of such a component and prevents any unexpected disconnection of the electrical equipment connectors.
[0032] According to a preferred aspect, the printed circuit board is an electrical sensor printed circuit board mounted on the mechanical part.
[0033] According to a preferred aspect, the electrical equipment is in the form of an aircraft turbomachine computer.
[0034] The invention also relates to an aircraft turbomachine comprising an assembly as described above.
[0035] The invention also relates to an aircraft comprising a turbomachine as described above.
[0036] The invention also relates to a method for electrically connecting the electrical interconnecting element as described above to a printed circuit board belonging to a mechanical part, said method comprising steps consisting of: • Position the electrical interconnection device on the mechanical part so that the input terminals of the electrical interconnection device and the output traces of the printed circuit board are superimposed, • fix the electrical interconnection device to the mechanical part, and • fill the cavity of at least one input terminal of the electrical interconnecting device with a conductive glue, so as to electrically connect the input terminal to the output track of the printed circuit board on which it is superimposed.
[0037] Such an electrical connection method is advantageously simple and quick to implement, suitable for mass production, and provides a reliable and durable connection. The cavity of each input terminal of the electrical interconnecting element allows, in particular, for easy application, dosing, and distribution of conductive adhesive, without risk of scratching or overflowing onto the printed circuit board.
[0038] Preferably, the electrical connection method further includes a step of connecting the electrical equipment to the output interfaces of the electrical interconnection device.
[0039] The electrical connection of electrical equipment to a printed circuit board on a part is advantageously simple and quick to implement thanks to the electrical interconnection device. Indeed, the output interfaces are advantageously positioned at a distance from the input terminals, which allows for easy connection to the connectors of the electrical equipment. PRESENTATION OF THE FIGURES
[0040] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given by way of example, and referring to the following figures, given by way of non-limiting examples, in which identical references are given to similar objects.
[0041] Fig. 1 is a schematic top view representation of an entire electrical equipment connected to a printed circuit board belonging to a mechanical part via an electrical interconnection element according to the invention.
[0042] The [Fig.2] is a schematic top view representation of the contact surface of the electrical interconnecting member of the [Fig.1].
[0043] Fig. 3 is a schematic top view representation of the free surface of the electrical interconnecting element of Fig. 1.
[0044] Fig. 4 is a schematic top view representation of the input terminals of the electrical interconnecting element of Fig. 1.
[0045] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective representation of an input terminal of the electrical interconnection unit of the [Fig. 1].
[0046] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a method of electrically connecting electrical equipment to a printed circuit belonging to a mechanical part via an electrical interconnection element according to the invention.
[0047] Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of a superposition step of the electrical interconnection element on the printed circuit according to the electrical connection method of Fig. 6.
[0048] Fig. 8 is a schematic top view representation of a step in fixing the electrical interconnection member to the printed circuit according to the electrical connection method of Fig. 6.
[0049] Fig. 9 is a schematic top view representation of a step in filling the cavity of the input terminals of the electrical interconnecting member with a conductive glue according to the electrical connection method of Fig. 6.
[0050] The [Fig. 10] is a schematic cross-sectional representation of the filling step of the [Fig.9].
[0051] It should be noted that the figures set out the invention in detail to implement the invention, said figures being of course able to serve to better define the invention where appropriate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0052] With reference to [Fig.1], the invention relates to an electrical interconnection element 1 for connecting an electrical equipment 400 to a printed circuit 200 belonging to a mechanical part 100.
[0053] A mechanical part 100 is defined as a machine part subjected to kinematics and dynamics, such as an engine component. The mechanical part 100 is preferably in the form of an aeronautical component, in particular a fixed turbine blade for an aircraft turbomachine, preferably a compressor stator blade or a turbine distributor blade. The invention is of particular interest for such a mechanical part 100 because the electrical interconnection element 1 maintains aerodynamics and ensures a permanent attachment to the surface of the mechanical part 100, which may be curved.
[0054] In a known manner, the printed circuit board 200 is formed on the surface of the mechanical part 100, i.e., the mechanical part 100 forms the substrate for the printed circuit board 200. In a known manner, a printed circuit board 200 comprises a set of electrical computing and / or control components (not shown) mounted on an electrically insulating substrate, namely the surface of the mechanical part 100, and connected by conductive electrical traces (not shown), usually made of copper, formed on the insulating substrate. The printed circuit board 200 includes output traces 300, illustrated in [Fig. 1]. The printed circuit board 200 is preferably manufactured by etching or printing. Preferably, the output tracks 300 are very close to each other, and the spacing between two adjacent output tracks 300 is less than 0.5 mm and preferably less than 0.3 mm. The output tracks 300 extend longitudinally, preferably in parallel.
[0055] The structure of a printed circuit 200, which is known to a person skilled in the art, is not described in any further detail.
[0056] Preferably, the printed circuit board 200 is in the form of a sensor for measuring the environment of the mechanical part 100. Preferably, the printed circuit board 200 is in the form of a temperature sensor, particularly in the case of an aeronautical part 100. It goes without saying that another physical parameter, such as pressure, could be measured.
[0057] In this example, the electrical equipment 400, particularly the electronics, takes the form of an aircraft turbomachine computer comprising electrical connectors 500, preferably flexible, to be connected to the output traces 300 of the printed circuit board 200 of the electrical sensor. The computer reads the measurements, for example of temperature, acquired by the sensor. The connectors 500 allow the printed circuit board 200, mounted on the surface of the mechanical part 100 to measure a physical parameter in the aircraft turbomachine, to be connected by wire to the computer, which is mounted away from the aircraft turbomachine to be protected, in particular, from heat and vibration. The aircraft turbomachine computer, which is known to those skilled in the art, will not be described in further detail.
[0058] Contrary to the prior art which taught a direct connection between the electrical equipment and the integrated circuit, the present invention proposes to use an electrical interconnection element in order to facilitate the electrical connection and make the latter reproducible and industrializable.
[0059] According to one embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the electrical interconnection member 1 comprises: • a contact surface 2 (see [Fig.2]) configured to be fixed to the mechanical part 100, • a free surface 3 (see figures 1 and 3), opposite the contact surface 2, • 4 input terminals arranged on the contact surface 2, each terminal input 4 being configured to be superimposed on an output track 300 of printed circuit board 200, • output interfaces 7 arranged on the free surface 3 at a distance from the input terminals 4 and configured to be connected to the electrical equipment 400, and • each input terminal 4 being connected to an output interface 7 by a track electric 8, • at least one input terminal 4 comprising a cavity 5 configured to receive a conductive adhesive 6 so as to connect together the input terminal 4 and the output track 300 when they are superimposed.
[0060] The electrical interconnection element 1 thus acts as an intermediary between the electrical equipment 400 and the printed circuit board 200, facilitating their connection and improving their reliability. In other words, the connectors 500 of the electrical equipment 400 are indirectly connected to the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200 via the electrical interconnection element 1.
[0061] Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 has a flexible structure to conform to the shape of the mechanical part 100, for example, a curved shape in the case of an aircraft turbomachine blade. This facilitates its attachment to the surface of the mechanical part 100 and helps to preserve the aerodynamics of the mechanical part 100. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 is made of a polymer material, such as Bakelite. In a preferred design, the electrical interconnecting element 1 is produced by additive manufacturing.
[0062] Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 also has a thin structure. The thickness of the electrical interconnecting element 1, defined between the contact surface 2 and the free surface 3, is preferably less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. This helps to limit the size and mass and contributes to preserving the aerodynamics of the part 100.
[0063] Preferably, the electrical interconnection element 1 has a planar structure and is in the form of a printed circuit board.
[0064] According to one aspect of the invention illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the contact surface 2 of the electrical interconnecting element 1 is fixed by bonding to the mechanical part 100. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 has one or more through-holes 11 in the electrical interconnecting element 1 facilitating its bonding to the mechanical part 100. The through-holes 11 allow the adhesive to be applied once the electrical interconnecting element 1 is pressed against the part 100, by depositing the adhesive into the through-holes 11 on the surface of the part 100. The through-holes 11 are distributed across the surface of the electrical interconnecting element 1 and contribute to a multi-point connection, thus contributing to the flexibility of the electrical interconnecting element 1 to deform and conform to the shape of the mechanical part 100.
[0065] Preferably, the electrical interconnection member 1 has a plurality of through openings 11, nine through openings 11 in the example of Figures 1 to 3. A plurality of bonding points ensures effective attachment of the electrical interconnection member 1 to the part 100 and prevents any delamination. undesirable adhesion. In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, several through-holes 11 are located around the periphery of the electrical interconnecting element 1 for optimal peripheral fixation. Furthermore, a through-hole 11 is positioned substantially centrally to improve fixation, particularly in the case of a part 100 with a concave curved surface. In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, each through-hole 11 is circular, but other shapes could be suitable. Also in this example, the diameter of a through-hole 11 is between 2 mm and 8 mm.
[0066] It is understood that the invention could be free of through openings 11, the glue or any adhesive being applied beforehand to the contact surface 2, for example. The electrical interconnecting element 1 could also be fixed to the part 100 by means other than gluing, such as with screws, bolts, or by welding, by way of non-limiting examples. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 is fixed at fixing points located at a distance from the input terminals 4, the electrical tracks 8, and the output interfaces 7.
[0067] With further reference to Figures 1 to 3 and as previously described, the electrical interconnection element 1 comprises, on the one hand, input terminals 4, configured to be connected to the printed circuit board 200, and on the other hand, output interfaces 7, configured to be connected to the electrical equipment 400. In this example, each output interface 7 is associated with an input terminal 4 and is connected to it by an electrical trace 8. In other words, the input terminals 4 and the output interfaces 7 are connected in pairs by the electrical traces 8. Thus, the number of output interfaces 7 is equal to the number of input terminals 4, as well as to the number of electrical traces 8. The combination of an output interface 7, an input terminal 4 and an electrical trace 8 connecting them forms an electrical line 13 (see [Fig. 2]). The 13 power lines are independent of each other.In other words, each 13-line power extends distinctly and separately from the other 13-line power lines.
[0068] In practice, the number of electrical lines 13 is determined from the number of output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200 and is equal to it. In the example of [Fig. 1], the printed circuit board 200 has six output tracks 300 and the electrical interconnection element 1 consequently has six electrical lines 13. Preferably, the number of electrical lines 13, i.e. the number of input terminals 4, is between three and ten.
[0069] According to the invention and as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the output interfaces 7 are formed on the free surface 3 of the electrical interconnecting element 1, so as to be accessible once the electrical interconnecting element 1 is fixed to the mechanical part 100. This allows the electrical equipment 400 to be connected after fixing the electrical interconnection unit 1 on the mechanical part 100.
[0070] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the spacing between two adjacent output interfaces 7 is greater than the spacing between two adjacent input terminals 4 in order to facilitate the connection of the electrical equipment 400. The electrical interconnecting element 1 thus takes into account the spacing constraints of the printed circuit board 200 and allows for the offset of the output interfaces. To this end, the electrical interconnecting element 1 has a flared shape from the input terminals 4 towards the output interfaces 7. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting element 1 has a parallelogram shape.
[0071] The spacing between two adjacent input terminals 4 is between 0.7 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 1.4 mm and 2 mm. The spacing between two adjacent output interfaces 7 is between 1 mm and 45 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 8 mm. The spacing depends on the number of connections to be made.
[0072] Preferably, the output interfaces 7 are in the form of conventional electrical terminations, such as metallized openings, known to those skilled in the art as "vias" and illustrated in [Fig. 2], or metallized bars, known as "pads," by way of non-limiting example. Advantageously, since the output interfaces 7 are sufficiently far apart from each other and from the input terminals 4, various types of connection can be used simply and conveniently, without requiring any precision steps during assembly or risking a short circuit or damage. In practice, the shape of the output interfaces 7 is determined based on that of the connectors 500 of the electrical equipment 400.
[0073] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, the electrical tracks 8 are preferably not visible on the free surface 3 so as to be protected from the environment of the mechanical part 100 once the electrical interconnecting element 1 is fixed. Preferably, the electrical tracks 8 are formed on the contact surface 2. Each electrical track 8 is in the form of a metallized channel formed on the contact surface 2, printed or engraved, and of a thin thickness, less than 0.1 mm. Preferably, the electrical tracks 8 are obtained by additive manufacturing, in a manner analogous to the output interfaces 7. Preferably, the electrical tracks 8 are silver-based, as are the output interfaces 7.
[0074] According to the invention and as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the input terminals 4 are formed on the contact surface 2 so as to be superimposed on the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200. The position and shape of the input terminals 4 are, in practice, determined based on those of the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200. The output tracks 300 are preferably in the form of metallized lines, known as pads, and the spacing between two adjacent output tracks 300 is very small, namely less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1.6 mm. This results in identical spacing between two adjacent input terminals 4. The input terminals 4 extend longitudinally and parallel to each other.
[0075] With reference to Figures 4 and 5, each input terminal 4 has a cavity 5 configured to receive a conductive adhesive, preferably silver-based, which allows an input terminal 4 to be fixed together with the superimposed output track 300 and ensures the electrical connection. In this example, the input terminals 4 extend longitudinally and have a cavity extending longitudinally in a portion of the input terminal 4. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the cavity 5 is not through-hole but blind. Also with reference to Figures 4 and 5, the cavity 5 is open at the contact surface 2 to ensure the electrical connection with the superimposed output track 300. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the cavity 5 is in the form of a channel delimited on either side by two branches 10.Such an input terminal 4 is particularly suitable for being connected to an output track 300 in the form of a pad.
[0076] According to a preferred aspect of the invention illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the cavity 5 of each input terminal 4 has a feed opening 12 opening onto the peripheral edge of the interconnecting member 1 configured to receive the conductive adhesive and guide it into the cavity 5. Preferably, the electrical interconnecting member 1 has a notch 9 formed in the peripheral edge into which the feed opening 12 opens. Such a notch 9 advantageously allows for easy and rapid application of conductive adhesive, with the correct dosage and without risk of overflow, while remaining accessible once the contact surface 2 is pressed against the mechanical part 100. The notch 9 allows for the precise positioning of an adhesive injection tool, for example, a syringe, in order to enable a fast, reliable, and industrializable electrical connection.
[0077] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the cavity 5 is capillary, that is to say, it is sufficiently narrow to allow the distribution of the conductive adhesive solely by capillary action. In practice, the capillary cavity 5 has a width of less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.6 mm, and preferably less than 0.3 mm. Also preferably, the width of the notch 9 is at least twice that of the cavity 5, so as to facilitate the deposition of the conductive adhesive. Advantageously, the conductive adhesive, in liquid form, is thus deposited in the notch 9 and then distributes itself spontaneously, i.e., without human intervention, throughout the cavity 5. This advantageously makes it possible to establish a reliable and permanent electrical connection between an input terminal 4 and the output trace 300 of the superimposed printed circuit board 200, thanks to a distribution homogeneous conductive glue. The dosage of conductive glue is further improved.
[0078] In the preferred example of Figures 4 and 5, the branches 10 of each input terminal 4 are conductive so as to allow an electrical connection to be made in the absence of glue. This ensures the correct positioning of the interconnecting element 1 on the output tracks 300, which are not visible, before the glue is applied.
[0079] Preferably, the branches 10 have a narrow portion where they are brought together to delimit the cavity 5 and a portion widened at the edge to delimit the notch 9. The branches 10 thus successively define the cavity 5 and the notch 9 of an input terminal 4.
[0080] With reference to [Fig. 6], a method for electrically connecting the electrical interconnecting element 1 to a printed circuit board 200 on a mechanical part 100 is described below, comprising the steps of: • Position the electrical interconnection device 1 on the mechanical part 100 so that the input terminals 4 of the electrical interconnection device 1 and the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200 are superimposed, • Fix E2 the electrical interconnecting member 1 on the mechanical part 100, and • Fill E3 the cavity 5 of at least one input terminal 4 of the electrical interconnecting member 1 with a conductive glue 6, so as to electrically connect the input terminal 4 to the superimposed output track 300 of the printed circuit board 200.
[0081] The positioning steps El, fixing E2 and filling E3 allow the electrical interconnection member 1 to be connected to the printed circuit 200.
[0082] With reference to [Fig.7], during the superposition step El, the electrical interconnection member 1 is positioned on the mechanical part 100 so that the contact surface 2 extends into contact with the part 100 and the input terminals 4 are in contact in pairs with the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200. Preferably, the electrical interconnection member 1 or the part 100 has positioning means to facilitate superposition. According to one aspect, the electrical interconnection member 1 is transparent, which allows visual control of the superposition with the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200. Cumulatively or alternatively, the part 100 has a marking for positioning the electrical interconnection member 1. According to a preferred aspect, the marking of the part 100 is configured to coincide with the through openings 11 of the electrical interconnection member 1 for simple and precise superposition.
[0083] Preferably, at the end of the superposition step El, temporary fastening means hold the electrical interconnection member 1 relative to the part 100 in the overlapping position, such as adhesive strips as an example. The electrical interconnecting element 1 can also be held by pressing onto part 100.
[0084] With reference to [Fig. 8], the fixing step E2 is carried out after the superposition step E1 and allows the electrical interconnecting element 1 to be fixed to the part 100 in the superposition position. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the fixing step E2 is carried out by gluing. Preferably, the fixing step E2 is carried out by depositing glue into the through-holes 11 on the part 100. At the end of the fixing step E2, the electrical interconnecting element 1 is fixed at its contact surface 2 to the part 100 such that the input terminals 4 are superimposed on the output tracks 300 of the printed circuit board 200.
[0085] With reference to Figures 9 and 10, after the fixing step E2, during the filling step E3, the cavity 5 of the input terminals 4 is filled with conductive adhesive 6, preferably silver-based. The conductive adhesive 6 has both adhesive and conductive properties, which allows the input terminals 4 to be fixed against the output tracks 300 and maintains electrical contact between them. According to a preferred embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 10], the arms 10 and the conductive adhesive 6 together establish electrical contact between the input terminals 4 and the output tracks 300. The resulting electrical connection is thus both reliable and permanent.
[0086] According to a preferred embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 9], during the filling step E3, the conductive adhesive 6 is deposited using a syringe precisely positioned by means of the notch 9 to allow injection into the feed opening 12 of the cavity 5 of each input terminal 4. The conductive adhesive 6 then spreads within the cavity 5 by capillary action. The deposition of the conductive adhesive 6 in the notches 9 is advantageously simple, quick, and reproducible. The notches 9 prevent any short circuits or damage. This also allows for precise metering of the required conductive adhesive 6, avoiding costly waste and potential overflow. Furthermore, the distribution of the conductive adhesive 6 within the cavity 5 requires no human intervention. At the end of the filling step E3, the electrical interconnection member 1 is connected to the printed circuit board 200.Note that the E3 filling step could be implemented in only part of the input terminals 4, only the relevant electrical lines 13 being able to be connected to the electrical equipment 400.
[0087] This gives us a mechanical part 100 which can easily be connected to an electrical equipment 400. The electrical interconnection element 1 has a small size and a reduced mass, which is not very penalizing for an aeronautical part 100.
[0088] Following the installation of the electrical interconnection device 1, the part Mechanical component 100 can be introduced into an assembly line in which electrical equipment 400 is connected to the output interfaces 7 of the electrical interconnection unit 1 (connection step E4 illustrated in [Fig. 6]). Due to the spacing of the output interfaces 7 and their remote positioning from the printed circuit board 200, the connection can be made quickly and conveniently. Such a connection could even be automated.
[0089] With reference to Figures 1 and 6, the connection step E4 connects the electrical equipment 400, and more specifically its connectors 500, six in this example, to the output interfaces 7. The connection step E4 is implemented by soldering, tin brazing, or using relay terminals, for example, preferably by soldering in a simple and practical manner. Preferably, the connectors 500 are also fixed to the mechanical part 100, for example by gluing, for a reliable and permanent connection while preserving the aerodynamics of the part 100.
[0090] The connection step E4 is thus implemented independently of the positioning steps El, fixing E2 and filling E3, preferably after them.
Claims
Claims
1. Electrical interconnection member (1) configured to electrically connect a printed circuit (200) belonging to a mechanical part (100) to at least one piece of electrical equipment (400), the printed circuit (200) comprising a plurality of output tracks (300), said electrical interconnection member (1) comprising: • a contact surface (2) configured to be fixed on the mechanical part (100), • a free surface (3) opposite the contact surface (2), • a plurality of input terminals (4) arranged on the contact surface (2), each input terminal (4) being configured to be superimposed on an output track (300) of the printed circuit (200), • a plurality of output interfaces (7) arranged on the free surface (3) at a distance from the input terminals (4) and configured to be connected to the electrical equipment (400), • each input terminal (4) being connected to an output interface (7) by an electrical track (8),• at least one input terminal (4) of said plurality of input terminals (4) comprising a cavity (5) configured to receive a conductive glue (6) so as to connect together the input terminal (4) and the output track (300) when they are superimposed.,
2. An electrical interconnection member (1) according to claim 1, wherein each input terminal (4) extends longitudinally, and preferably the cavity (5) extends over at least a longitudinal portion of the input terminal (4).
3. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 and 2, in which the spacing between two neighboring output interfaces (7) is greater than the spacing between two neighboring input terminals (4).
4. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the cavity (5) comprises a supply opening (12) accessible from the free surface or from a peripheral edge of the electrical interconnection member (1).
5. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to claim 4, comprising at the peripheral edge at least one notch (9) into which the feed opening (12) opens.
6. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the cavity (5) of at least one input terminal (4) comprises a capillary structure so as to promote the distribution of the conductive glue (6) throughout the cavity (5).
7. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which at least one input terminal (4) comprises two lateral branches (10) delimiting between them the cavity (5), the two lateral branches (10) preferably being conductive.
8. Electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a plurality of through-fixing openings (11) which are distributed.
9. Assembly of a mechanical part (100) comprising a printed circuit (200) and an electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, the printed circuit (200) comprising a plurality of output tracks (300), assembly in which: • the contact surface (2) of the electrical interconnection member (1) is fixed on the mechanical part (100), • the input terminals (4) of the electrical interconnection member (1) are superimposed on the output tracks (300) of the printed circuit (200), at least one input terminal (4) comprising a cavity (5) filled with conductive glue (6) connecting together the input terminal (4) to the output track (300) to which it is superimposed.
10. Assembly according to claim 9, in which the mechanical part (100) is in the form of an engine part, preferably an aircraft turbomachine part, and preferably a fixed aircraft turbomachine blade.
11. Aircraft turbomachine comprising an assembly according to one of claims 9 and 10.
12.
13. Aircraft comprising a turbomachine according to claim 11. Method for electrically connecting the electrical interconnection member (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8 to a printed circuit (200) belonging to a mechanical part (100), said method comprising steps consisting of: Position (El) the electrical interconnection member (1) on the mechanical part (100) so that the input terminals (4) of the electrical interconnection member (1) and the output tracks (300) of the printed circuit (200) are superimposed, Fix (E2) the electrical interconnection member (1) on the mechanical part (100), and Filling (E3) the cavity (5) of at least one input terminal (4) of the electrical interconnection member (1) with a conductive glue (6), so as to electrically connect the input terminal (4) to the output track (300) of the printed circuit (200) to which it is superimposed.