Electrochemical Device Rod-Shaped Coelectrode Current Density Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochemical processing devices struggle to achieve high precision, particularly at transitions between surface segments with varying copper conductor densities and on objects with complex geometries, due to edge effects and inadequate current density distribution.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates a holder with a rod-shaped coelectrode of opposite polarity to the counter electrode, which influences current density distribution, along with adjustable rod-shaped counter electrodes and electrically insulated tubes, allowing for precise control and optimization of current density through iterative positioning and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional electrochemical processing devices with simple counter electrode arrangements are used, then device complexity is low, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inadequate current density distribution and edge effects
Solution Approach 1:
The counter electrode is divided into multiple rod-shaped segments arranged in a matrix pattern, allowing independent positioning and current density control for different regions of the object, thereby achieving high processing precision while managing device complexity through modular segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the object receive tailored current density through locally positioned rod-shaped counter electrodes and coelectrodes, enabling precise control of electrochemical processing parameters at specific locations, particularly at transitions between high and low copper conductor density segments
2Adaptability or versatility
If the object surface has complex geometry with varying copper conductor densities, then adaptability to different patterns is improved, but current density distribution deteriorates due to edge effects on projecting surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
Rod-shaped coelectrodes are strategically positioned to provide localized current density control at specific problem areas such as transitions between high and low copper conductor density segments and on projecting surfaces, enabling precise compensation for edge effects while maintaining adaptability to complex geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables iterative determination and optimization of current density distribution by measuring actual current density, comparing it with desired distribution, and adjusting counter electrode and coelectrode positions accordingly, achieving accurate pattern processing on complex surfaces
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 configuration enables precise electrochemical processing by ensuring uniform current density distribution, improving the accuracy of pattern deposition or etching on complex surfaces, such as printed circuit boards, with reduced edge effects and enhanced precision.
Implementation Method 1
By applying an electrical potential difference between the counter electrodes and the object, the object can either be etched, by which treatment material is removed from the object, or the material can be coated
Implementation Method 2
The term electrochemical processing as used in the present patent application is understood to include: electrochemical etching, electrochemical polishing, galvanising or plating, electrochemical machining
Implementation Method 3
means for applying an electrical potential difference between the object to be processed and the counter electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A device which is suitable for electrochemically processing an object comprises at least an electrolyte-containing chamber, means for supporting the object to be processed in the chamber, a counter electrode disposed in the chamber as well as means for applying an electrical potential difference between the object to be processed and the counter electrode. The device furthermore comprises at least one holder and at least one rod-shaped coelectrode supported by the holder, which rod-shaped coelectrode extends towards the object and which in use has a polarity opposite that of the counter electrode.