Revolutionizing Circuits: 3D Manufacturing Method for Any Layer Count

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a proposed manufacturing method for creating true three-dimensional circuits with any number of layers. Participants explore the implications of this method compared to traditional printed circuit boards (PCBs) and discuss existing technologies in the field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant claims to have a unique method for making 3D circuits that are self-contained, unlike traditional PCBs.
  • Another participant notes that modern electronic devices often utilize multi-layer boards that incorporate 3D structures, suggesting that similar technologies already exist.
  • This second participant raises questions about the advantages of the proposed method, particularly in terms of modularity versus monolithic designs.
  • A third participant mentions various existing techniques for stacking and embedding components in circuits, indicating that the proposed method may not be entirely novel.
  • The original poster asserts that their method is particularly beneficial for compactness in military and portable devices, allowing for large components across multiple layers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the novelty and advantages of the proposed 3D circuit method. While some acknowledge existing technologies that achieve similar outcomes, others highlight potential benefits of the new approach. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the uniqueness and superiority of the proposed method.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various existing technologies and methods for circuit design, but there is no consensus on the specifics of the proposed method or its advantages over current practices. Concerns about public disclosure and patent implications are also noted.

talanum1
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I have a manufacturing method for making true 3-dimensional circuits for any amount of layers. The circuit is self contained and is not just PCB's fixed to a mechanical cabinet and connected with wires.

It is therefore better than doublesided Printed Circuit boards and the Motherboard - Card type PCB's.

Does someone know if something similar already exists?
 
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talanum1 said:
I have a manufacturing method for making true 3-dimensional circuits for any amount of layers. The circuit is self contained and is not just PCB's fixed to a mechanical cabinet and connected with wires.

It is therefore better than doublesided Printed Circuit boards and the Motherboard - Card type PCB's.

Does someone know if something similar already exists?

Yes, in your computer, and most other electronic devices. Those boards are generally not just 2-sided, but have several layers embedded within the board, making the board itself an intricate 3D structure. Sometimes, passives like low-value capacitors, inductors, and resistors can be built in. 4 layers is very common, and I've seen services offering up to 28 layers...and that's just what I've come across, I've never had reason to look for services offering production of high layer count boards.

Active components are still usually stuck on the surfaces of the board, though boards are often stacked to when an even more 3D structure is needed (look at the PC/104 standard, or Mobile-ITX for a newer, more compact example). Some companies can apparently embed active components inside the board, or construct 3D sandwich structures for highly integrated modules and such. There's heat dissipation issues with doing this to any great degree, though.

As for being "better", for what purpose? A system of modular boards that can be disassembled and reassembled to replace defective components or add different capabilities would be a major advantage in many situations...the motherboard/card system is far superior to a monolithic 3D circuit board system for a desktop computer.
 
I'm not altogether sure what it looks like, so you may have something unique and useful. I've seen a variety of techniques used to "pack it in." Before there were so many power supply controllers, I used to see power supply bricks that were made in multiple layers and stacked on leads that ran through them.

Then again, I've seen memory chips stacked on upon another and tiny sensors that had small diameter boards that were linked via pins and sockets. Also, old portable radios used flex circuitry that was woven one layer upon another to get enough density to make them hand held (though heavy :).

Hard to say without seeing it, but these are all out there. Just be sure not to show it if your working on a patent. Public disclosure will invalidate your submission.
 


Thank you. The method is usable for any circuits.

It is better when compactness is necessary like for the military and portable devices.

It can have large components on all of the layers and the layers can be glued together.
 
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