New connections for automobiles

Thanks to innovative technologies and applications, flexible circuitry is helping drive new trends, such as modularity, in automotive design, according to Sheldal.

As cars become more complex, many existing component technologies are being reinvented to provide new value and service to automobile manufacturers. Flexible circuitry falls into this category. While its role as a thin, reliable, and efficient interface for instrument displays and audio systems is well established, advancements such as satellite navigation units, “smart” ignition systems, and even radio-controlled HVAC are enabling flexible circuitry to take on new and more task-critical functions.

Flexible interconnects have helped greatly in advancing manufacturing and assembly techniques while reducing total system costs and improving performance. Innovative modular assemblies, in particular, have benefited from large-format flexible circuits that allow easy assembly, increased component integration, lower weight, and better shielding and filtering capabilities-all at a system cost comparable to conventional wiring.