Challenges exist from before everytime you’re about to do a competent task. As everything is becoming smaller, faster and more complex, how can flexible circuit market remain the last one in the race? Segments that have consistently driven its demand are observed on the consumer side, such as mobile phones and smart electronics and other digital-based devices. That’s not all. Flex circuit boards are present on the industrial side as well, serving areas especially medical, telecommunication, automotive and military/defense. That being said, we suppose dealing with flex circuits assembly is a whole different story than rigid PCBs. And among the strategies to win over the process, here we have a few for you.
- First of all, when dealing with a flex circuit, ensure the proper fixturing. According to the principal of BEST Inc. Bob Wettermann, “In the rigid world, people have a coplanar surface and components with given fixed dimensions, and therefore the machine knows where to pick from and where to place the device.” Hence proved that fixturing is key to tackling the challenge.
- Flex circuits are a combination of hand assembly, and automated, surface-mount line, reflow, and pick and place while rigid-flex design repeats rigid-board assembly. Additionally, the flex area of a rigid-flex is the interconnect between the flex areas so it becomes less challenging to deal with.
- Also, having a proper coplanar surface to remove and replace devices is important to reworking various complex devices on flex circuitry. When you encounter a physical repair like IPC-7721-related type, remember that there are no acceptable industry standards for flex materials. You need to make the process work as you move along.
- Recently in our conversations with known industry experts, we got to know that when it comes to design, fabrication or assembly of a particular flex circuit, we should always use a prototype method before moving forward – testing of a concept, design, process, interface, technology and product. Prototyping is a critical factor of success of any intricate work. In the prototype stage, customers are hoping to get at least some functionality out of the product, and this benefits you when you begin the conversation with them irrespective of the production stage you are of your circuit. Even at the design phase, the assembly aspect of the construction is considered strictly.
- After all this, if you feel you’re not a good engineer, it’s better to hand over your product to professionals. They are experienced people and can assemble your circuit with more precision. Plus you have no idea about the techniques, the equipment they have. You get the highest first yield rate.
We know someone that fits the above description. All you need to do is click on the link to find out.
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