Electronic Assembly with ESD Grounding Spacer and Display Holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices, such as HVAC control panels, are prone to electrostatic discharge (ESD) events, which can damage sensitive components, and existing solutions do not adequately address the ease of use, assembly, construction, and reliability of these devices.
Innovation Solution
The electronic assembly includes a display, a printed circuit board (PCB), and a spacer with an electrically conductive extender or connector that provides an ESD path to ground, securing the PCB relative to the display holder and spacer, and using temperature compensation models to accurately sense ambient temperature, especially during transient and steady-state conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional assembly methods are used for electronic devices, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but assembly ease and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including a display assembly, PCB assembly, housing, and control panel assembly that can be independently manufactured and then easily assembled together using the alignment features and latch mechanisms described in the patent
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment features such as ribs, grooves, and positioning pins act as intermediaries between components to ensure precise positioning during assembly, while latch mechanisms serve as intermediaries to securely join components without complex fastening systems
2Volume of moving object
If components are closely positioned to reduce device size, then compactness is achieved, but protection from electrostatic discharge is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Spacers and insulating materials are positioned between the PCB and housing to create electrical isolation barriers that protect sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge while maintaining compact overall device dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs grounding paths and conductive elements that create a controlled electrical environment, directing electrostatic discharge through safe pathways away from sensitive components, effectively creating an 'inert' electrical environment for vulnerable circuitry
3Device complexity
If simple mounting structures are used, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but mounting reliability and precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features utilize asymmetric geometries such as directional ribs, grooves, and positioning pins that guide components into precise positions during assembly, ensuring correct orientation and positioning without complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment features are pre-formed as integral parts of the housing and components during molding, establishing precise positioning capabilities before assembly begins, eliminating the need for post-assembly adjustment or complex alignment procedures
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
This configuration effectively protects the devices from ESD events by grounding sensitive components and improves assembly and reliability, while the temperature compensation models enhance the accuracy of ambient temperature sensing, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a spacer with an electrically conductive extender or connector that provides an ESD path to ground
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic assembly may have a display, a display holder, and a printed circuit board (PCB). The display may have a front side for viewing the display, a back side, and side walls extending between the front side and the back side. The display holder may have a recess for receiving at least part of the display, where the display holder may extend adjacent part of the front side of the display and adjacent at least part of the side walls of the display. The PCB may be secured relative to the display holder and adjacent the back side of the display. The PCB may be in operative communication with the display. In some cases, a spacer may be situated between the back side of the display and the PCB.