Flexrigid Can Be Used in Medical Devices

Whether your company designs and manufactures medical devices, military equipment or aerospace technology, you can benefit from using rigid-flex printed circuit boards (PCBs) to save space and cost while improving reliability. Rigid-flex PCBs are hybrid circuit board designs that combine the best of both rigid and flexible PCB technology.

Rigid-flex PCBs have rigid sections to support components and flex sections that can be folded and bent to adapt to unique form factors. This makes them ideal for medical and medical device applications where space is limited and devices must conform to body movements. Rigid-flex PCBs also have better heat dissipation, which means they can withstand harsh environments and the rigorous demands of medical use.

From portable patient monitors to robotic surgery systems, rigid-flex PCBs enable medical equipment to be more compact and flexible. They also help keep medical equipment running smoothly by providing reliable, durable connections for sensitive electronic components.

Implantable devices are one of the most fascinating applications of medical rigid flex PCBs. These life-saving or limb-restoring devices are inserted into the human body to perform artificial functions, including stimulating nerves, controlling blood flow, and delivering medication. To make these life-changing devices work, they must withstand the physical stresses of surgery, bodily fluids, and extreme temperatures. To protect delicate sensors and circuitry, medical rigid flex PCBs feature thin, lightweight materials and high-temperature ratings. They also include features like moisture barriers, EMI shielding and reinforced component mounting.

How Flexrigid Can Be Used in Medical Devices

Medical flexrigid can withstand millions of bending cycles with careful design and the right materials. To achieve this, the flex portion must be manufactured with a high-bend ratio. Additionally, the rigid portion should be designed with care to minimize stress on copper traces and avoid fractures and broken vias. To achieve this, designers must implement methods like teardrop pads, staggered pads, flexure loops, and re-entry holes to manage flex stress and ensure reliability.

Rigid-flex PCBs can also be used in X-ray, MRI, and other medical imaging machines. These systems require a high-performance PCB that can manage signals from detectors and connect components while navigating tight spaces. To do so, rigid-flex PCBs incorporate a combination of rigid and flexible sections to improve reliability, fit in tight spaces, and accommodate articulating arms.

With a rigid-flex PCB from Epec, your medical device can offer greater capabilities and performance, while remaining smaller and thinner than traditional devices. We can help you design a production-ready rigid-flex PCB that is compliant with IPC and UL standards. For more information, contact our team of experts. Our engineers can provide a free quote and discuss the details of your project. If you would prefer, we can even handle the entire design and assembly process for your medical device. Our services can save you time and money while ensuring your product meets the highest standards. Contact us today to get started.