PCB Shield Coupling for Folded Board Stability and EMI Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronics assembly, it is challenging to maintain the folded shape of rigid-flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs) in confined spaces without using additional components like tape or fasteners, which can require a larger PCB size.
Innovation Solution
The use of an electromagnetic-resistant shield as a coupling mechanism that interlocks and protects components, serving both connection and shielding functions, allowing the PCB to maintain its shape and prevent electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If tape or fasteners are used to hold the folded PCB shape, then the PCB can maintain its shape during and after assembly, but the PCB size must be larger to accommodate these additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shielding function and the structural support function into a single integrated shield component. The shield serves dual purposes: protecting sensitive components from electromagnetic interference and providing structural support to maintain the folded PCB configuration, thereby eliminating the need for separate fasteners or tape.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs electromagnetic shielding and mechanical support functions. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components (shielding material plus fasteners/tape), reducing the overall PCB area required.
2Reliability
If additional components like tape or fasteners are used for connection, then the PCB can be held together, but the assembly complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the shielding component with the structural support function, creating a single integrated element that both protects against electromagnetic interference and maintains the folded configuration. This reduces assembly complexity by eliminating the need to separately install fasteners or tape while ensuring reliable mechanical bonding.
3Area of stationary object
If the PCB is made larger to accommodate fasteners or tape, then there is space for additional components, but the compact footprint is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shielding function and structural support function into one integrated component, maximizing the utilization of existing PCB space. This eliminates the need for additional area that would be required for separate fasteners or tape, thereby maintaining a compact footprint while providing both shielding and mechanical support functions.
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
This solution enables the PCB to maintain a compact footprint during and after assembly while protecting components from electromagnetic interference without the need for additional connection mechanisms, simplifying assembly and enhancing spatial efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a shield engaged to the substrate of the first circuit board, the shield at least partially covering the first component and being configured to protect the first component from electromagnetic interference
Data Source
AI summary
Various circuit board systems and methods of use and manufacture thereof are disclosed. A circuit board system can have a first circuit board including a substrate and a first component susceptible to electromagnetic interference carried by the substrate. The system can also include a second circuit board including a second substrate, and a shield engaged to the substrate of the first component, the shield at least partially covering the first component and being configured to protect the first component from electromagnetic interference, wherein the shield couples the substrate of the first circuit board to the substrate of the second circuit board.