Multipurpose Screw Holes for RF Grounding in Mobile Circuit Packages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices face challenges in designing compact and robust circuit packages due to space constraints and the need to secure components firmly, while existing screw holes primarily serve mounting functions and do not optimize space usage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multipurpose screw holes in circuit packaging for mobile devices that serve not only as mounting points but also as grounding paths for RF circuits and antenna feeding or tuning points, thereby enhancing structural integrity and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional single-function screw holes are used for mounting, then structural integrity is achieved, but space efficiency is reduced due to unused void space
Solution Approach 1:
The screw holes are designed to serve multiple functions: mechanical mounting, RF grounding, and antenna feeding/tuning. By integrating grounding paths and antenna elements within the same screw hole structure, the patent eliminates wasted space while maintaining structural integrity. The conductive portions of screw holes provide both mechanical fastening and electrical connectivity for RF circuits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional components are added for RF grounding and antenna functions, then functional requirements are met, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mounting holes, grounding paths, and antenna elements into a single integrated structure. The screw holes contain conductive portions that simultaneously provide mechanical fastening and RF grounding, while also serving as feeding points or tuning elements for antennas. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate components, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each screw hole is designed as a multi-functional element that performs mounting, grounding, and antenna functions. The conductive material within screw holes serves multiple purposes: structural reinforcement, electrical grounding path, and antenna feed point. This universal design approach meets diverse functional requirements without adding separate components.
3Ease of manufacture
If screw holes are used only for mounting, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but design efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The screw holes are configured to provide mounting, grounding, and antenna functions simultaneously. The conductive portions are integrated into the substrate during manufacturing, allowing single-step formation of multi-functional features. This approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while significantly improving design efficiency by eliminating the need for separate grounding vias and antenna feed points.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit package may comprise (1) a substrate, (2) at least one radio frequency (RF) circuit disposed on the substrate, and (3) a plurality of screw holes that are incorporated into the substrate and configured to support mounting the substrate to an enclosure, wherein at least one of the screw holes is further configured to provide at least one supplemental function in connection with the RF circuit. Various other apparatuses, systems, and methods are also disclosed.