Please, Fold the Line: Designing Flexible Electronics Using Open-Source Software

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Abstract

Predicting the properties of flexible printed circuits
(FPCs) before production is a significant challenge in their
development. Traditional design flows model FPCs in a flat state,
yet simulations of the actual bent shape of the circuits are more
effective in forecasting their behavior in real-world applications.
Currently, only proprietary tools are available for simulating
these 3D geometries, with no open-source alternatives. This paper
introduces a novel open-source software tool that bridges this gap
by transforming two-dimensional layout data from KiCad files
into three-dimensional bent geometries. This transformation is
achieved through segmentation and meshing techniques, enabling
accurate verification of circuit parameters via simulation. The
software facilitates these simulations by generating the necessary
input files, thus supporting a comprehensive open-source design
and verification workflow. This work not only enhances the
accessibility of FPC design and simulation but also underscores
the broader applicability of open-source solutions for printed
circuit board design.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication6th IEEE International Flexible Electronics Technology Conference, IFETC 2024 - Proceedings
Number of pages3
ISBN (electronic)979-8-3315-2946-8
Publication statusPublished - 15 Sept 2024
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85215013070

Keywords

Keywords

  • FEM, FPC, flexible circuit, open source, simulation