Can rigid flex be used in roll-to-roll manufacturing?
rigid flex be used in roll-to-roll manufacturing
A rigid flex is an electronic circuit board that includes both rigid and flexible sections, making it ideal for applications with space constraints and complex designs. Rigid flexes can also incorporate mounting components on both sides of the circuit, increasing component density and optimizing the use of space within an assembly. These features make rigid flexes an appropriate choice for a wide range of products, from medical imaging equipment to military missile guidance systems.
The main challenge when designing a rigid flex is determining the proper materials to use. The materials must be durable, withstand repeated bending, and remain stable under changing temperatures. Additionally, they must be able to accommodate the vibrations and movement common to many applications. Additionally, engineers need to consider environmental factors, including moisture resistance and corrosion protection. Finally, rigorous testing and design verification processes are necessary to ensure that the final product will meet all specifications and performance requirements.
Choosing the right adhesives is another critical decision when constructing a rigid flex. Adhesives are responsible for creating a strong bond between the substrate and conductor materials. Various types of adhesives are used in rigid flex fabrication, including epoxy and acrylic adhesives. Polyimide adhesives are typically chosen due to their exceptional heat resistance. They can withstand elevated and fluctuating temperatures, making them a reliable choice for most rigid-flex circuits.
Can rigid flex be used in roll-to-roll manufacturing?
Once the adhesives are selected, the cladding material can be determined. The cladding material is the copper layer that is applied to both the flexible and rigid sections of the circuit. Some fabricators choose to laminate the cladding material with an adhesive, while others utilize an adhesive-less process that relies on the photo-imageable solder mask used in rigid PCBs. The cladding is then chemically etched and plated, just as with a standard 2-sided rigid PCB core.
In addition to determining the correct cladding, designers must select the appropriate coverlay for their rigid flex. A coverlay protects the flex from damage during assembly, preventing accidental contact with conductive traces or exposing them to external forces. Coverlay materials are available in a variety of options, including polyimide with an adhesive, and photo-imageable solder mask.
Rigid-flexes often include plated through holes (PTH) to allow electrical interconnections between the flexible and rigid portions of the circuit. Choosing the correct via size is vital to maintain circuit integrity, and adding tabs or anchors to the vias can help prevent peeling. It is also important to avoid placing vias in areas where the flex will bend, as this can cause cracking or loss of function.
To design a successful rigid flex, it is essential to work with an experienced and knowledgeable fabricator and manufacturer. Getting them involved early in the design phase is an excellent way to guarantee that the flex and rigid portions of the circuit will be coordinated properly. It’s also a great way to reduce the time to market for the finished product.