Stretchable Device Wiring Connection Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stretchable devices with conductive connections face challenges in securing reliable electrical connections between facing wirings due to potential space constraints for the connection member during pressure bonding, which can lead to connection failures and migration issues.

Innovation Solution

A stretchable device configuration featuring a first and second substrate with stretchable wirings, protective layers covering the wirings, and a connection member that contacts the wiring ends and protective layer surfaces, ensuring the connection member can flow and securely connect the wirings while preventing migration by creating a space for pressure bonding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the connection member is surrounded by the wirings facing each other and the protective layer covering the part of each wiring, then the wiring structure is compact and protected, but it is difficult to secure a space in which the connection member flows as the connection member is pressurized at the time of pressure bonding

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidspatial arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a thickness direction (first direction) as a new dimension for spatial arrangement. The wirings are arranged to face each other in this thickness direction, creating a layered structure where the first wiring is on the first substrate and the second wiring is on the second substrate. This dimensional arrangement provides adequate space for the connection member to flow during pressure bonding while maintaining a compact overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the device into distinct layers and components: first substrate, second substrate, first protective layer, second protective layer, and connection member. Each component has a specific function and position. The wirings are segmented into first wiring and second wiring located on different substrates, allowing independent optimization of each segment's properties and arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If metal material such as Ag is used as a wiring material, then high electrical conductivity is achieved, but migration occurs in the wirings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical conductivityVSAvoidmigration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces protective layers as intermediary components between the metal wirings and the external environment. The first protective layer covers the first wiring and the second protective layer covers the second wiring. These protective layers act as barriers that prevent direct exposure of the conductive metal to conditions that would cause migration, while allowing the wiring to maintain its electrical conductivity function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potential harm of exposed metal wirings (migration) into a benefit by using the protective layers. The protective layers are specifically designed to cover the wirings, transforming the vulnerability of metal migration into an opportunity for enhanced protection and reliability. The connection member is also designed to contact specific surfaces, ensuring proper connection while preventing harmful interactions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 enhances connection reliability between facing wirings and prevents migration by allowing the connection member to flow and securely contact the wiring ends, improving the overall electrical connection and reducing the risk of breakage and misalignment.

Implementation Method 1

it is difficult to secure a space in which the connection member flows as the connection member is pressurized at the time of pressure bonding for electrical connection between the wirings

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure bonding: Compression

Implementation Method 2

it is conceivable that a part of each wiring is covered with an insulating protective layer and the wirings are connected by the connection member in order to prevent the occurrence of migration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMigration prevention: Physical Containment

Data Source

PatentUS20240422919A1Stretchable device
Publication Date: 2024.12.19 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US20240422919A1 patent drawing
  • US20240422919A1 patent drawing
  • US20240422919A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A stretchable device including: a first substrate; a stretchable first wiring on the first substrate; a second substrate facing the first substrate in a thickness direction of the first substrate; a stretchable second wiring on the second substrate; a first protective layer covering a part of the first wiring; a second protective layer covering a part of the second wiring; and a connection member in contact with an outer surface at an end portion of each of the first and the second wirings and electrically connecting the first and the second wirings, and in contact with an end surface of each of the first and the second protective layers, wherein at least a pair out of (1) the first protective layer and the second wiring and (2) the second protective layer and the first wiring is separated from each other with the connection member interposed therebetween.