Flexible PCB Layout Integrating NFC and Wireless Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printed circuit boards (PCBs) in electronic smoking devices are not flexible enough for thin and filigree designs, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced design variability due to the need for separate wireless charging components and connectors.
Innovation Solution
A flexible printed circuit board with integrated NFC-antenna and electromagnetic induction coil, comprising a common flexible layer stack with structured metal layers for conductive tracks and electrical components, allowing for a single flexible PCB that supports multiple functionalities without additional assembly steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If NFC antenna is implemented using a separate module or sticker, then NFC functionality can be added to the terminal device, but the device thickness increases and integration is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the NFC antenna with the existing PCB structure by routing trace patterns through existing vias and conductive layers of the PCB, merging two separate components (NFC antenna and PCB) into a single integrated structure, thereby eliminating the need for separate NFC modules or stickers that would increase device thickness
Solution Approach 2:
The PCB is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, electrical connections for device components, and NFC communication capability through integrated trace patterns. This multi-functionality allows the PCB to replace dedicated NFC antenna structures, reducing overall device thickness while maintaining NFC functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If NFC antenna is implemented using a separate module or sticker, then NFC functionality can be added to the terminal device, but the overall integration and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the NFC antenna traces with the PCB's existing conductive structures, creating a unified design where the antenna is an intrinsic part of the PCB rather than an add-on component. This integration simplifies the overall device architecture by reducing the number of separate components and their associated mounting, wiring, and alignment requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional NFC antenna designs are used, then NFC functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines NFC antenna fabrication with standard PCB manufacturing processes. The antenna traces are created using the same layering, etching, and via formation techniques used for other PCB circuits, allowing NFC antennas to be produced alongside other PCB components in a single manufacturing run, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes existing PCB parameters such as trace width, trace spacing, via diameter, and copper thickness that are already optimized for standard PCB manufacturing. By designing the NFC antenna to conform to these existing parameters rather than introducing new manufacturing requirements, the patent maintains ease of manufacture while achieving NFC functionality
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
Reduces manufacturing costs and enhances design flexibility by integrating wireless charging and communication capabilities into a single flexible PCB, optimizing space utilization and simplifying assembly.
Implementation Method 1
an NFC antenna 120 may be used to transmit and/or receive electromagnetic signals
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a printed circuit board mechanically supporting a plurality of electrical and/or electronic components for an electronic smoking article, which are electrically connected via conductive tracks. The printed circuit board comprises at least one flexible portion and at least one rigidized portion, wherein the flexible portion and the rigidized portion comprise a common flexible layer stack comprising at least one structured metal layer, which forms conductive tracks and/or electrical components. The rigidized portion further comprises at least one rigidizing layer stack comprising at least one structured metal layer, which forms conductive tracks and/or electrical components, wherein the rigidizing layer stack is arranged on at least one surface of the common flexible layer stack. The printed circuit board is characterized in that at least a part of the structured metal layer of the common flexible layer stack in the flexible portion is structured as an electromagnetic coil forming an NFC-antenna and at least a part of the respective structured metal layers of the common flexible layer stack and the rigidizing layer are structured for acting together as an electromagnetic induction coil suitable for wireless charging.