A Rigid-Flex PCBcombines rigid circuit-board sections and flexible circuits into one integratedstructure.
The rigid sectionssupport electronic components, while the flexible sections connect differentparts of the circuit and allow the board to bend during installation. Thisdesign can replace separate PCBs, cables and connectors, helping save space andimprove connection reliability.
Rigid-Flex PCBs combinemechanical support, electronic-component assembly and flexible interconnectionin a single circuit board.
Depending on thedesign, they can provide:
Power and signal transmission
High-density component integration
Connections between different robot modules
Reduced wiring and connector requirements
Installation in compact or irregular spaces
Reliable connections in moving systems
Support for high-speed and controlled-impedance signals
Antfield Rigid-FlexPCBs can be used in:
Humanoid robot joints
Robotic arms and grippers
Motor and servo-control modules
Camera and vision systems
Sensor and encoder modules
Robot control and communication units
Medical and service robots
Industrial robots, robot dogs and compact robotic devices
Saves internal installation space
Reduces cables and connectors
Lowers overall assembly weight
Simplifies product assembly
Supports compact three-dimensional designs
Improves electrical connection reliability
Reduces connection points that may become loose
Suitable for complex robot structures
Rigid-Flex PCBs can becustomized according to project requirements, including:
Different rigid and flexible layer combinations
Single or multiple flexible sections
Polyimide and FR-4 materials
Controlled impedance
ENIG and other surface finishes
Stiffeners and reinforced areas
Fine-pitch SMT assembly
Prototype and volume production
Reliable Rigid-Flex PCBdesign should consider:
Rigid and flexible layer stack-up
Minimum bending radius
Static or dynamic bending requirements
Transition areas between rigid and flexible sections
Copper-trace direction in bending areas
Component and connector placement
Mechanical stress and installation method
Impedance, thermal and environmental requirements
Electronic componentsand vias should generally be kept away from critical bending and rigid-to-flextransition areas.
Antfield reviewsmanufacturing data and technical requirements before production. Qualitycontrols can include:
DFM and stack-up review
Material and copper-thickness verification
Rigid-to-flex transition inspection
Coverlay and stiffener alignment checks
Dimension and finished-board inspection
Electrical continuity and isolation testing
Impedance testing when required
SMT assembly and solder-joint inspection
Bending and functional testing upon agreement
Final inspection and production traceability
Antfield providescustom Rigid-Flex PCB manufacturing and assembly services for robotics,supporting projects from engineering prototypes to volume production.