Flex PCBs Be Used in Medical Devices
Whether they’re used for diagnostics or treatment, medical devices need to be reliable and durable. This is particularly true for surgical tools and wearables that will be inserted into the human body. The use of flexible printed circuits (FPC) in these devices can help improve their reliability. These flexible boards are able to withstand higher levels of vibration, bending, and flexing than their rigid counterparts. They can also be designed to fit into small spaces that would be difficult or impossible to reach with traditional wires and connectors.
Using FPCs in medical devices can reduce the number of connection points, which are a common source of electronic failure and malfunction. FPCs are also less likely to snag or rub against other components, making them an ideal choice for medical applications. Additionally, these circuits are typically manufactured with fewer steps than rigid PCBs. This can make them a more cost-effective option for manufacturers.
When deciding on a supplier for your medical FPCs, be sure to choose a company that has a track record of high-quality production and excellent customer service. A good partner will offer a wide range of customization options, including adding adhesive tape to specific areas of the board or plating some edge terminals with gold. In addition, they will be able to conduct an electrical test on each finished product. If you are concerned about electromagnetic interference (EMI), they may be able to add an additional layer of shielding to the board.
Can Flex PCBs Be Used in Medical Devices?
A few of the main medical devices that use flex circuits are pacemakers, insulin pumps, and hearing aids. These devices monitor vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and sugar levels, and can alert patients to possible problems that could be serious if left unchecked. Flex PCBs can be easily customized to meet the specific needs of these types of medical products.
In addition to their durability and flexibility, flex pcb are very lightweight, making them an excellent choice for medical devices that need to be portable. This can be especially important for wearable medical devices, which are intended to be worn throughout the day and night. A flexible PCB can be molded and shaped to conform to the shape of the user, providing comfort and convenience.
Rigid-flex PCBs combine both rigid and flexible sections in a single assembly, with careful design to ensure reliability at the interface between rigid and flex. Methods such as teardrop pads, staggered pads, and flexure loops help manage stress and avoid cracking and separation at the junction.
Whether you’re looking for a flex pcb to make a new wearable, implantable, or diagnostic device, it’s crucial that you choose the right manufacturer. At BST, we specialize in high-quality, customizable flex and rigid-flex PCBs that are perfect for the most demanding medical applications. Contact us today to learn more about how our products can help you achieve your next medical device design goals.
