Flexible Printed Circuit Board Insertion Device With Position Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for inserting flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) into connectors, such as those in display panels, often result in damage and misalignment due to the complexity of the process and the need for precise positioning and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a suction unit, a position restriction unit, and a flexible printed circuit board transfer unit that includes a base frame, a transfer frame, linear guides, and a transfer buffer portion, which allows for accurate and controlled insertion of the FPCB into the connector by adhering, positioning, and transferring the board using a vacuum or electrostatic mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional insertion method is used, then the insertion process can be completed, but the FPCB may be damaged or misaligned due to lack of precise positioning control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a position restriction unit as an intermediary component between the transfer unit and the FPCB. This unit includes positioning protrusions that fit into corresponding recesses on the FPCB, automatically establishing precise alignment without requiring complex control systems. The intermediary structure physically constrains the FPCB position during insertion, resolving the contradiction between precision and control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The position restriction unit enables self-alignment through its geometric design. The positioning protrusions and recesses are configured to automatically guide the FPCB into the correct position as it is being inserted, eliminating the need for external positioning control mechanisms. This self-servicing alignment mechanism achieves high precision while maintaining simple control.
2Manufacturing precision
If the FPCB is held firmly during transfer, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the FPCB may be damaged due to excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The suction unit implements local quality by creating vacuum suction only at specific contact points on the FPCB surface rather than applying uniform force across the entire board. This localized suction provides sufficient holding force for precise positioning while avoiding excessive stress that could damage the flexible circuit board. The suction force is concentrated where needed to achieve positioning accuracy without compromising FPCB integrity.
3Productivity
If the insertion force is increased, then the insertion speed is improved, but the FPCB may be damaged due to excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer buffer portion is designed with cushioning characteristics to absorb and moderate the insertion force. This beforehand cushioning mechanism prevents excessive force from being directly transmitted to the FPCB during high-speed insertion. The buffer portion acts as a force-dampening element that maintains insertion speed while protecting the FPCB from damage, resolving the contradiction between productivity and structural integrity.
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 enables accurate and damage-free insertion of FPCBs into connectors without complicated control, reducing the risk of breakage and ensuring precise alignment, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency and reliability of electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a suction unit configured to adhere to the flexible printed circuit board
Implementation Method 2
using a vacuum or electrostatic mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A device for inserting a flexible printed circuit board into a connector of a display panel includes: a suction unit configured to adhere to the flexible printed circuit board; a position restriction unit configured to restrict a position of the flexible printed circuit board; and a flexible printed circuit board transfer unit coupled to the suction unit and the position restriction unit, and configured to insert the flexible printed circuit board into the connector. A method of inserting a flexible printed circuit board into a connector of a display panel is also disclosed.