Harting component carriers replace flexi-PCBs in linear measuring sensors

HARTING has developed a component carrier that can be used directly with electronic components eliminating manual assembly and replacing flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs), increasing precision and reducing assembly costs

Component carriers are equipped with measuring sensors for detecting position. The component carrier serves as a connecting element between a printed circuit board (PCB) and electronic components (such as LEDs, ICs, photodiodes or sensors).

The measuring sensors of a scanning head for position detection, for example on a linear slide with guide rails, are often mounted onto flex PCBs. As magnetic, optical or inductive systems, they record the exact position of the slide. To do this, the sensors must be positioned exactly at a 90-degree angle.

The capability to mount these as precisely as possible improves the accuracy of the measurement results. A second sensor is often installed in the measuring head for redundancy. In addition, the status of the evaluation electronics is displayed using LEDs; these are mounted onto a flex PCB.

With HARTING's component carrier, the flexible PCB can be replaced completely. The injection-moulded plastic body already provides very precise 90-degree angles for mounting sensors. The component carrier eliminates the need for time-consuming manual assembly of the flexi-PCB.

In addition, the sensors are positioned more precisely. Another advantage of the component carrier is that the width of the sensor modules can be reduced to less than 8mm.

The component carrier, with the assembled electronic components, comes in a blister pack for further processing in SMD assembly facilities. The soldered components are secured with an adhesive so that they cannot detach from their position while in the reflow oven.

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