Foldable FPCB Hinge Layout for EMI-Resistant Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in disposing electric elements efficiently in a limited space within foldable electronic devices while minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI) between these elements.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device design that incorporates a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) and a non-conductive member, strategically positioned to reduce EMI by utilizing the hinge portion of the device for efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If electric elements are disposed in a limited space inside a foldable electronic device, then space efficiency is improved, but electromagnetic interference between electric elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
A non-conductive member is introduced as an intermediary element between the flexible printed circuit board and the metal housing. This non-conductive member acts as a mediator that blocks electromagnetic fields from the metal housing from interfering with the RF signals on the flexible printed circuit board, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference while maintaining compact space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-conductive member is strategically positioned only in specific areas where electromagnetic interference is most critical - between the metal housing and the flexible printed circuit board. This localized application of non-conductive material provides targeted EMI protection without requiring the entire device to be redesigned, thus maintaining space efficiency while addressing the interference problem where it matters most.
2Area of stationary object
If the flexible printed circuit board is positioned close to the metal housing, then space efficiency is improved, but electromagnetic influence on the flexible printed circuit board increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-conductive member serves as a protective intermediary layer between the metal housing and the flexible printed circuit board. Even when the FPCB is positioned close to the metal housing for space efficiency, the non-conductive member interposes itself to block electromagnetic fields from the metal housing, thereby reducing electromagnetic influence on the FPCB's RF signals.
3Reliability
If electric elements are arranged to minimize electromagnetic interference, then signal integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-conductive member provides a simple yet effective solution for protecting signal integrity. By introducing this single intermediary element, the patent achieves EMI reduction without requiring complex shielding structures, multiple layers, or intricate routing designs, thus maintaining relatively low device complexity while improving signal 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 effectively improves space efficiency and secures the integrity of signals transferred through the flexible printed circuit board by minimizing electromagnetic influence from other electric elements.
Implementation Method 1
a non-conductive member positioned to reduce EMI by utilizing the hinge portion of the device for efficient space utilization
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a foldable housing, a flexible display module, a first flexible printed circuit board, and a first non-conductive member. The foldable housing can include a first housing, a second housing and a hinge unit for connecting the first housing and the second housing. The flexible display module can include a first display area arranged in the first housing, a second display area arranged in the second housing, and a third display area positioned, in correspondence to the hinge unit, between the first display area and the second display area. The first flexible printed circuit board can include a first surface, which is accommodated in the first housing and is oriented toward the first display area, and a second surface oriented in the direction opposite to the first surface.