Two-Layer ECU Housing for EMC Shielding and Vibration Strength

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic control devices require both electromagnetic compatibility and mechanical strength, but existing solutions either fail to reduce weight and cost or compromise on shielding performance due to the use of metal or resin cases, respectively.

Innovation Solution

An electronic control device with a base portion formed of two layers: a conductive shield layer for electromagnetic compatibility and a reinforcing layer made of non-conductive resin for mechanical strength, allowing for weight reduction and cost-effectiveness while maintaining shielding performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a metal case is used for electromagnetic shielding, then electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but weight and component cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic compatibilityVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure consisting of a resin case and a conductive shield member. The resin case provides the basic housing structure, while the conductive shield member (made of metal or conductive resin) provides electromagnetic shielding. This composite approach combines the advantages of both materials: the lightweight and cost-effective resin with the electromagnetic shielding properties of conductive materials, thereby reducing overall weight and cost while maintaining EMC performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Weight of stationary object

If a resin case is used for weight reduction, then weight and cost are reduced, but electromagnetic shielding performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidelectromagnetic shielding performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite structure where a resin case is combined with a conductive shield member. The resin case provides lightweight housing, while the conductive shield member (metal or conductive resin) restores electromagnetic shielding performance. This allows the device to maintain both weight reduction and adequate EMC protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The housing is divided into functional segments: the resin case provides structural support and weight reduction, while the separate conductive shield member provides electromagnetic shielding. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other, enabling the resin case to reduce weight while the shield member maintains shielding performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If conductive resin is used for shielding, then weight and cost are reduced, but mechanical strength decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshielding performanceVSAvoidmechanical strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure where the conductive shield member is integrated with or attached to the resin case. The resin case provides the primary mechanical strength and structural integrity, while the conductive shield member provides electromagnetic shielding. This composite approach allows the device to achieve both shielding performance and mechanical strength by leveraging the complementary properties of the two materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution secures both electromagnetic compatibility and mechanical strength, enabling the device to withstand vibrations and reduce manufacturing costs without the need for additional noise countermeasures.

Implementation Method 1

a base portion (11) including a first layer (111) formed of a conductive member and a second layer (112) formed of a member different from that of the first layer (111)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS12177992B2Electronic control device with electromagnetic compatibility for vehicle control
Publication Date: 2024.12.24 ASTEMO LTD
  • US12177992B2 patent drawing
  • US12177992B2 patent drawing
  • US12177992B2 patent drawing

AI summary

To provide an electronic control device capable of securing electromagnetic compatibility and mechanical strength. An electronic control device includes a base portion formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape; an electronic control board provided in the base portion; and connectors provided on an opening side of the base portion and electrically connected to the electronic control board, in which the base portion includes a first layer formed of a conductive member and a second layer formed of a member different from that of the first layer.