Multi-Layer Protective Element for Lightweight Vehicle EMC Shielding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern motor vehicles face challenges in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) with minimal increase in weight, due to the integration of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic components, which require effective shielding solutions.

Innovation Solution

A protective element with multiple shielding layers, including a deformable contacting element and a reinforcement zone, is designed to improve EMC by providing protection from electromagnetic fields while optimizing space utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If shielding layers are added to protect against electromagnetic fields, then electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic compatibilityVSAvoidcomponent weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs thin-film shielding layers deposited on circuit board surfaces instead of traditional bulky metallic enclosures. These thin films provide effective electromagnetic shielding while minimizing weight addition, directly resolving the contradiction between EMC protection and weight increase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite structures combining dielectric materials with conductive coatings or layered composite boards (such as FR4 with copper traces or embedded shielding layers). These composite materials provide both structural support and electromagnetic shielding functionality, achieving effective protection with minimal weight penalty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If multiple shielding layers are used to improve electromagnetic compatibility, then protection effectiveness increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic compatibilityVSAvoidshielding structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates shielding functionality directly into the circuit board structure itself, merging the mechanical support function and electromagnetic shielding function into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate shielding enclosures or additional mounting hardware, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multiple layers of protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit board is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: electrical connection, mechanical support, and electromagnetic shielding. The same structural elements that provide mechanical integrity also provide electromagnetic protection, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 shields against electromagnetic interference with minimal weight increase, ensuring reliable operation of vehicle components and improved sealing against impact loads.

Implementation Method 1

the protective element comprises a shielding layer for protection from electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic fields

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS20260059729A1Protective element, energy supply system, communications system, and motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 ELRINGKLINGER AG
  • US20260059729A1 patent drawing
  • US20260059729A1 patent drawing
  • US20260059729A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective element for improving electromagnetic compatibility. The protective element comprises at least a shielding layer for protection from electric, magnetic, and/or electromagnetic fields.