Conductive Shield Circuit Assembly EMI Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices face inefficiencies and signal degradation due to electromagnetic interference (EMI)/radio frequency interference (RFI) from unshielded components, which existing solutions fail to adequately address, especially in densely packed consumer electronics where space is a concern.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a multifunctional electrically conductive structure, such as a board level shield or mid-plate, that provides EMI shielding and supports a multilayer circuit assembly, with an electrically nonconductive material coating for electrical isolation and thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient space utilization and reduced interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional separate shielding and circuit support structures are used, then EMI shielding function is provided, but device space is wasted and structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI shielding effectivenessVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the EMI shielding function and circuit support function into a single integrated structure. The conductive shield structure serves dual purposes: providing electromagnetic interference shielding while simultaneously supporting electrical components and circuits directly on its surface, eliminating the need for separate support structures and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The shield structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: EMI shielding, mechanical support for components, electrical connection pathways, and thermal management. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall device architecture.

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

2Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional separate shielding and circuit support structures are used, then EMI shielding function is provided, but device space utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI shielding effectivenessVSAvoidspace utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the shielding structure and circuit support into one integrated component, the patent eliminates the space that would be required for separate support structures. Electrical components and circuits are mounted directly on the shield surface, maximizing space utilization within the device envelope.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If electrically conductive material is used for shielding, then EMI shielding is effective, but electrical isolation for circuit components is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI shielding effectivenessVSAvoidelectrical isolation
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive coating is applied selectively to specific regions of the shield structure where EMI shielding is needed, while leaving other regions electrically isolated or insulated. This localized application allows the shield to provide electromagnetic protection in critical areas while maintaining electrical isolation requirements for adjacent circuit components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses intermediate insulating structures or coatings between the conductive shield portions and adjacent circuit components. These intermediaries allow the shield to maintain its EMI shielding effectiveness while preventing unwanted electrical coupling between the conductive shield and sensitive circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 approach effectively shields against EMI/RFI, supports electrical components, and provides a thermally conductive path, enhancing device performance and space efficiency by integrating shielding and circuit support in a single structure.

Implementation Method 1

An electrically nonconductive material is on at least part of the electrically conductive structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

provides a thermally conductive path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS10631398B2Circuit assemblies and related methods
Publication Date: 2020.04.21 LAIRD TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US10631398B2 patent drawing
  • US10631398B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In exemplary embodiments, a circuit assembly may be provided on and/or supported by an electrically conductive structure, such as a board level shield, a midplate, a bracket, a precision metal part, etc. For example, a circuit assembly may be provided on and/or supported by an outer top surface of a board level shield. In an exemplary embodiment, an assembly generally includes an electrically conductive structure configured for a first functionality in the electronic device. An electrically nonconductive material is on at least part of the electrically conductive structure. First electrical component(s) are at least partly on the electrically nonconductive layer and configured to define at least a portion of a circuit assembly for electrical connection with one or more second electrical components of the electronic device. The electrically conductive structure may thus be configured for a second functionality in the electronic device.