Automotive ECU Shielded PCB Layout Without Separate Cover Plate
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive electronic control units require multiple parts for electromagnetic shielding, increasing assembly effort and cost, and there is a need for a simplified and cost-effective design that maintains effective electromagnetic shielding.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing two circuit boards to form a shielded space with an electromagnetic shielding wall, eliminating the need for a separate cover plate by connecting the circuit boards to the shielding wall, which is made of electromagnetic shielding material and can be perforated for reduced weight and material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate cover plate is used for electromagnetic shielding, then effective shielding is achieved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover plate function with the circuit board by making the circuit board itself serve as the shielding cover. The second circuit board acts as both the functional circuit carrier and the electromagnetic shielding cover for the first circuit board, eliminating the need for a separate cover plate while maintaining shielding effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The second circuit board performs multiple functions: it serves as the functional circuit board for its own electronic components and simultaneously acts as the electromagnetic shielding cover for the first circuit board. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts required in the system.
2Reliability
If multiple parts are used for electromagnetic shielding, then shielding effectiveness is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cover plate manufacturing process with the circuit board manufacturing process. By making the circuit board itself serve as the shielding cover, the system requires only one manufacturing process instead of two separate processes (one for the cover plate and one for the circuit board), thereby reducing manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The second circuit board is designed to serve dual purposes: functional circuit operations and electromagnetic shielding. This eliminates the need to manufacture a separate cover plate, reducing material costs, manufacturing costs, and assembly costs while maintaining the required shielding effectiveness.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact design is implemented by connecting circuit boards to shielding wall, then overall size is reduced, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spacing function with the circuit board structure. The second circuit board itself provides the spacing and separation between the first circuit board and the external environment, eliminating the need for separate spacers or mounting structures. This integration simplifies the assembly process while achieving compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The second circuit board serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electromagnetic shielding, maintains spacing between components, supports electronic components, and forms the structural boundary of the shielded space. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate parts needed, thereby simplifying assembly despite the compact design.
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 simplified design reduces assembly complexity and cost while maintaining electromagnetic shielding, allowing for a compact form factor with increased component placement space and easier assembly and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
the electronic control unit generally comprises an electromagnetic shielding which electromagnetically shields at least some of the electronic components of the circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
An automotive electronic control unit comprising a first circuit board, a second circuit board and a shielding wall, comprising an electromagnetic shielding material, wherein the first circuit board and the second circuit board together with the shielding wall form a shielded space arranged between the first and the second circuit boards, wherein an electric component arranged at least one of the first or second circuit board is within the shielded space.