Foldable FPCB Through-Hole Sealing Against Moisture and Dust
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with waterproofing and dustproofing at the through holes where flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) pass, leading to potential damage from moisture and foreign substances.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple sealing members that press both sides of the FPCBs within the through holes, enhancing waterproofing and dustproofing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a through hole is formed to allow FPCB passage between housings, then electrical connection between substrate assemblies is enabled, but waterproofing and dustproofing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into multiple sealing members (first sealing member and second sealing member) that are disposed at different positions within the through hole. Each sealing member independently presses against the FPCB from different sides, creating multiple sealing zones that collectively prevent moisture and dust intrusion while allowing the FPCB to pass through for electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing members act as intermediary elements between the through hole (opening) and the FPCB (conductive element). These sealing members press against the FPCB to create a barrier that prevents harmful factors (moisture and dust) from entering through the through hole, while still allowing the FPCB to maintain its electrical connection function.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sealing members are added to press FPCB in through holes, then waterproofing and dustproofing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing members are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: they seal the through hole to prevent moisture and dust intrusion, while also providing mechanical support and positioning for the FPCB. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite adding sealing functionality.
3Reliability
If multiple sealing members are disposed to press both sides of FPCB, then sealing effectiveness is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing members are pre-positioned within the through hole structure before the FPCB is fully installed. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the FPCB is inserted, the sealing members are already in place to press against it from both sides, creating an effective seal. This preliminary action simplifies the final assembly process by reducing the need for complex adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a hinge, a first housing having at least a portion coupled to a first side of the hinge and including a first substrate assembly, a second housing having at least a portion coupled to a second side of the hinge, including a second substrate assembly, and configured to be foldable and unfoldable, a flexible display supported on the first and second housing and configured to be foldable and unfoldable, an FPCB electrically connecting the first and second substrate assembly, a through hole formed in the first housing forming a path through which the at least one FPCB passes, a first sealing member disposed so as to compress a first side surface of the at least one FPCB disposed in the through hole, and a second sealing member presses the second side surface of the FPCB disposed in the through hole.