Extensible FPC for LCD Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing flexible printed circuit boards (FPCs) for LCD modules require multiple designs and shapes to accommodate different LCD modules, leading to increased complexity and resource wastage due to varying pad positions on the PCB, necessitating a solution that allows a single FPC to be adaptable to various modules.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an extensible element into the FPC that can extend to a predetermined length when a force is applied, allowing the same FPC to be used across different LCD modules by modifying its length either longitudinally or laterally, manufactured in a single process using materials like Polymer or Polyester, with shapes such as embossing, saw-tooth, or arc.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple FPC designs are used to accommodate different LCD modules, then adaptability to various modules is improved, but device complexity and material preparation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to various LCD modulesVSAvoidcomplexity of preparing different FPC designs
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized FPC shape that can be used across different LCD modules. The FPC includes an extensible element that allows the same basic design to accommodate various module sizes and pad positions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized FPC designs while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by incorporating an extensible element into the FPC that can be extended or compressed to adjust the effective length of the FPC. This dynamic feature allows a single FPC design to adapt to different module configurations without requiring multiple static designs, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple FPC shapes are designed for different pad positions, then adaptability is improved, but loss of substance and resource wastage increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different pad positionsVSAvoidwastage of materials for producing different FPC shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates resource wastage by creating a universal FPC design that can serve multiple pad position configurations. The extensible element allows the same FPC to be adapted to different module types, meaning only one FPC shape needs to be manufactured in quantity, preventing the material wastage associated with producing multiple specialized shapes that may not all be used.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical state of the FPC through the extensible element, which can be extended or compressed to achieve different effective lengths. This allows a single FPC design with fixed material dimensions to adapt to various module requirements, eliminating the need to manufacture different material quantities for different shapes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If FPC shape is redesigned for different module requirements, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time and manufacturing efficiency decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different module configurationsVSAvoidtime spent on redesigning FPC shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates redesign time by establishing a universal FPC template that works across different module configurations. The extensible element provides the necessary adaptability without requiring redesign, allowing manufacturers to simply extend or compress the same basic design rather than creating new shapes for each module type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by using the extensible element to provide adaptability through physical extension or compression rather than through redesign. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the same FPC design to serve multiple purposes without requiring time-consuming redesign processes for different module configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If connector is used to connect FPCs, then ease of assembly is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assembling FPC connectionsVSAvoidcomplexity of connector-based connection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies merging by integrating the connection function directly into the FPC structure through the extensible element, which can be extended to reach and connect with the PCB pad. This eliminates the need for separate connectors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of assembly through the simplified direct connection approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 approach simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material preparation complexity, and minimizes storage space by enabling a single FPC to fit multiple LCD modules, while maintaining circuit integrity and reducing protruding length when connected to a PCB.

Implementation Method 1

an extensible element that could extend to a first length when a force is applied thereon

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7529100B2Flexible printed circuit board (FPC) for liquid crystal display (LCD) module
Publication Date: 2009.05.05 INNOLUX CORP
  • US7529100B2 patent drawing
  • US7529100B2 patent drawing
  • US7529100B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible printed circuit board (FPC) with an extensible element for liquid crystal display (LCD) module is provided, wherein the extensible element can extend when it is forced. It can be used for different LCD modules to achieve the purpose of simplifying manufacturing process.