Electronic Card Terminal Electrode Offset Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic identification cards face manufacturing challenges due to the need for unique terminal electrode layouts that are not possible with traditional techniques, particularly in creating an array of terminal electrodes offset from the edges of the contact plate, which complicates the electroplating process and requires innovative solutions for alignment and integration.

Innovation Solution

The electronic identification card features a contact plate with an array of terminal electrodes offset from the edges, where each electrode is electrically coupled to a copper layer on a hidden inner surface, facilitating an electroplating process, and includes a conductive periphery portion separated by ablated regions, allowing for a unique terminal layout and improved manufacturing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional electroplating techniques are used to create terminal electrodes, then the manufacturing process is simple and well-established, but it is not possible to create unique terminal electrode layouts offset from the edges of the contact plate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveterminal electrode layout flexibilityVSAvoidelectroplating process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The contact plate is segmented into multiple functional regions: a copper layer region for electroplating, an ablated region for electrical isolation, and a terminal electrode region. This segmentation allows the copper layer to extend beyond the final terminal electrode boundaries, enabling offset electrode layouts while using conventional electroplating techniques. The ablated region acts as a barrier to prevent electrical connection between adjacent electrodes, solving the layout flexibility problem.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The copper layer is deposited in advance beyond the intended terminal electrode boundaries before the electroplating process. This preliminary copper extension provides the necessary electrical connectivity for offset electrode arrangements, allowing the electroplating process to create electrodes at non-traditional positions while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the contact plate includes a conductive periphery portion separated by ablated regions, then a unique terminal layout is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveterminal layout uniquenessVSAvoidcontact plate structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ablated region serves as an intermediary element between the copper layer and the terminal electrodes. By removing material in this intermediate zone, the design achieves electrical isolation and structural definition without requiring complex multi-layer PCB techniques or additional manufacturing steps. The ablated region mediates between the simple copper deposit and the functional terminal layout.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If terminal electrodes are offset from the edges of the contact plate, then improved electrical connectivity is achieved, but alignment precision during manufacturing becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidelectrode alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The contact plate exhibits local quality variations: the copper layer has extended reach in certain areas to provide electrical pathways to offset electrodes, while ablated regions provide localized electrical isolation. This localized material distribution enables offset electrode arrangements with reliable connectivity without requiring high-precision alignment throughout the entire structure, as the copper and ablated regions are positioned specifically where needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 enables a functional and manufacturable electronic card with a unique terminal layout, enhancing electrical connectivity and manufacturing feasibility while maintaining a compact design.

Implementation Method 1

facilitating an electroplating process

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectroplating: Electroplating

Implementation Method 2

conductive periphery portion separated by ablated regions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAblation: Ablation

Data Source

PatentEP3629244B1Electronic card having an electronic interface

Publication Date: 2023.01.11 APPLE INC

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AI summary

This disclosure is directed to an electronic identification card (100) or electronic card having various features. The electronic card may include an integrated circuit (106) and a contact plate (102) for electrically interfacing with the integrated circuit (106). The contact plate (102) may include an array of terminal electrodes (104) that are offset with respect to the edges of the contact plate (102). The electronic card may be coated with a coating layer that extends at least partially over a ferromagnetic element or film (130). The electronic card may also include a metal substrate having exposed chamfer portions that may provide a visual contrast to the coating layer and also improve the handling and use of the electronic card (100).