Flexible Printed Circuit with Integrated Ground Plane and Protective Mesh
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic systems with multiple printed circuits face challenges in reliable and secure connection, particularly in devices handling confidential data, where traditional connectors compromise flexibility and security due to added layers for protection.
Innovation Solution
A flexible printed circuit design featuring a dual-function support layer with a protective mesh and ground plane, which also serves as a ground plane, positioned to cover signal transmission tracks, maintaining flexibility while ensuring security and electromagnetic compatibility with a reduced number of layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple protective layers are added to the flexible circuit to secure sensitive signals, then security is improved, but flexibility deteriorates and the risk of breakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protective mesh layer and ground plane into a single integrated support layer. The support layer simultaneously provides mechanical support, electromagnetic shielding through the protective mesh, and ground reference through the ground plane pattern, eliminating the need for separate protective layers while maintaining security and flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The support layer is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support for the flexible circuit, creates a protective mesh for electromagnetic shielding, establishes a ground plane for signal reference, and enables signal transmission. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of layers needed while maintaining all necessary protective and functional properties
2Reliability
If multiple protective layers are added to the flexible circuit, then security is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective mesh and ground plane into a single support layer structure, reducing the total layer count from multiple separate protective layers to one integrated layer, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The support layer is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously provides protection, grounding, and structural support, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated layers and thus reducing device complexity
3Reliability
If traditional connectors are used to connect multiple printed circuits, then connection reliability is improved, but flexibility and security are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible printed circuit with a support layer containing protective mesh and ground plane patterns formed as thin flexible films. This allows the connector to maintain flexibility for bending and routing while providing the necessary electrical connections and electromagnetic protection, avoiding the rigidity of traditional connectors
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a printed circuit board (Cl) comprising at least one flexible part. According to the invention, said flexible part (PF) comprises at least one layer, called transport layer (CT) comprising at least one copper signal transmission track (P1, P2, P3, PdG, PdD), and at least one support layer (CS), said at least one support layer (CS) comprising at least one track acting as a ground plane (PM) and at least one protection track (TS) for at least one of said signal transmission tracks.