Rigid Flex Circuit Boards
Rigid flex circuit boards are used in many automotive applications, including infotainment systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and engine control units. These flexible circuit boards are designed to withstand vibration, extreme temperatures and humidity while offering other key benefits.
Vibration is an issue for rigid PCBs that can lead to material fatigue and interconnect reliability issues. Rigid flex circuits are designed to withstand this dynamic flexing by using reinforced materials and incorporating a rigid core. This helps to reduce the risk of premature failure and increase overall system durability.
rigid flex circuit combine both rigid and flexible substrates to offer the best of both worlds. The rigid parts of the board are used to support components, while the flex substrates provide the flexibility needed for signal and power paths. This combination allows for more efficient and compact designs. This can significantly reduce the size of a device and free up space for other features.
Rigid Flex Circuit Boards for Automotive Applications
In addition, rigid-flex circuits are able to withstand physical stress, like repeated bending and twisting. This makes them a good choice for portable devices like smartphones and wearables that are often exposed to movement and handling. They are also less prone to failure due to mechanical stress, such as loose connectors or cracked solder joints, which can be an issue for rigid PCBs.
The telecommunications industry is constantly evolving, and the demand for faster data transfers and more compact devices continues to rise. Rigid-flex circuits can be used in a variety of applications, such as routers, switches, base stations and satellite communication systems, allowing for more efficient and compact design. They are also capable of withstanding harsh industrial environments and chemical exposure.
Rigid flex circuits can be manufactured with a wide range of materials, but copper is the most common material used because of its excellent balance of cost and performance attributes. The conductive material is typically etched on the flex substrate in multiple layers, and then covered with a layer of protective epoxy resin. The result is an incredibly thin circuit board with very narrow circuit traces that allow for high component density, which can result in significant weight reductions.
Lastly, rigid-flex circuits can be manufactured with anti-EMI and signal integrity enhancement features that help to ensure reliable operation in high-speed and high-density environments. This can be an important consideration for the telecommunications and aviation industries, where security is paramount. Rigid-flex circuits can be cost-effective, as they can be designed to eliminate the need for costly connectors and cables. This can significantly reduce production costs and assembly time.
However, it is important to consider the total cost of a project when considering the use of a rigid-flex circuit board. The complexity of the design and manufacturing process, along with the number of layers, can drive costs up significantly. In addition, if the application requires selective plating or dual surface finishes, these can add to the final cost. Therefore, it is essential to discuss these requirements with a trusted and experienced PCB manufacturer early in the process.