Folded PCB with Flexible Connector for Solenoid Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printed circuit boards used in irrigation systems are too large, occupying excessive space and limiting the integration with solenoids, while maintaining functionality and performance capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact printed circuit board design featuring two smaller boards connected by a flexible rigid board connector, allowing for a folded configuration that reduces the footprint and enables additional features like wireless communication and sensor integration, while maintaining micro-electronic functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a traditional single printed circuit board is used to accommodate micro-electronics, then the functionality is maintained, but the board size becomes excessively large
Solution Approach 1:
The printed circuit board is divided into two separate boards (first and second boards) that can be folded together. This segmentation allows each board to be smaller in area while maintaining the total functionality through their connection via the flexible rigid board connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane board layout to a three-dimensional folded configuration. By folding the two boards at approximately right angles and housing them in an enclosure, the design utilizes vertical space to reduce the horizontal footprint, enabling compact integration with the solenoid.
2Volume of moving object
If the printed circuit board size is reduced, then space for integration is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible rigid board connector merges the two separate boards into a single functional unit. This connector integrates the electrical connection and mechanical support functions, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the folded configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The two folded boards are housed within a single enclosure, nesting the complex folded structure within a compact external form factor. This nesting approach conceals the internal complexity while maintaining a simple external geometry that is easy to manufacture and install.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional features like wireless communication and sensors are added, then functionality is improved, but board space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the circuit board into two separate boards connected by a flexible connector, the design creates modular spaces that can independently accommodate different features. Wireless communication modules, sensors, and other components can be distributed across the two boards, allowing functionality expansion without requiring a single large board area.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a compact printed circuit board. The compact printed circuit board has a flexible rigid printed circuit board connector with a rigid printed circuit board attached at each end of the connector. The printed circuit board can then be folded into a compact, overlying configuration. As such, the compact printed circuit board has a smaller footprint than a standard rectangular printed circuit board, while maintaining the same or having increased micro-electronics and functionality. The compact configuration allows the folded printed circuit board to be integrated with a solenoid used in the control of a valve or sprinkler of an irrigation system.