4 BENEFITS OF FLEX CIRCUIT IN THE INDUSTRY

Working as a head circuit designer, I have unlocked some of the possibilities thought as a task impossible. Earlier in my career, a fellow designer sparked a ray of light in our team when he put forward the idea of FPC flex circuit design. He said, and I quote, “The possibilities with flexible and rigid-flex circuits are limitless. The only limiting factor is our imagination.” Using flex circuits didn’t only solve our packaging problems but also was an efficient solution.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF FLEX CIRCUIT?

Some people in the industry are still hesitant, and as an engineer, I completely understand the concern. But, the basis of my argument stands firm upon the very thought that regardless of their shape, size, and functionality, every electronic item consists of one standard component — flexible printed circuits boards. On that note, I am going to highlight the top four benefits of using FPC flex circuit design.

1. PACKAGING SOLUTION:

This may be the most prominent benefit of flexible circuits. Since the material can be folded, bent around the corners, and has no discreet pieces, flex circuits reduce the size and weight altogether. The three-axis connection and circuit flexibility enable electronics to be miniaturized (ex. wristwatches, smartphones, and microelectronic devices).

2. SPACE AND WEIGHT REDUCTION:

As FPC flex circuits can be bent, folded, and formed around the edges, they can reduce the weight and area up to 60 percent. Skilled circuit board technicians can sold joints and tiny parts under a microscope, using fine tip soldering irons. I think weight and size reduction, and packing solution is an interconnected benefit — just like your PCBs can be with flexible circuits.

3. COST EFFECTIVE:

Bulky wiring and cabling come at a substantial cost. Furthermore, the additional cost of skilled assembly labor, multiple purchase orders, and error inspection kits. With flex printed circuit boards, these costs can be eliminated entirely. With flexible circuit boards, you can say goodbye to complex circuit wiring, and decrease the possibility of circuit failure. And cost.

4. INCREASED RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY:

The increment in the reliability and durability of the circuit with FPC flex circuit design is three-fold. First, the elimination of interface connections like solder joints, connectors, contact crimps, and more. Interconnects are further reduced with the use of rigid-flex integration — fewer interconnects means fewer roots of potential failure. Second, lesser mass and lower circuit’s ductility minimizes vibration and shock, resulting in improved performance. Third, polyimide’s exceptional thermal stability helps the circuit to withstand extreme heat. Thus, excellent circuit durability and reliability.

In conclusion, the FPC flex circuit design opens unlimited rooms for mind-blowing opportunities, brand new product designs, and imaginative ideas. But that’s not all. Flexible circuit boards offer reality, durability, and more productivity. Plus, flexible PCBs can pave a road to improved internal appearance. And aesthetically pleasing electronic products influence the decision-making process of prospective users.