Physical PCB sample "Digital solder mask"
Sample for the presentation “Design rules for digital solder mask - what are the current possibilities?” at the FED conference on 18.09.2024
This hand sample demonstrates the new possibilities of additively applied solder mask, also known as s.mask. An outstanding new feature is 3D printing in height. In a similar way to conventional 3D printing with materials such as PLA or ABS, the solder mask is applied in layers with a thickness of around 40 μm per layer. However, extremely steep edges cannot be realized. A certain gradation of the flanks is necessary. In this way, structure heights of up to 1400 μm (1.4 mm) can be achieved.
Design/description: The 3D structures highlighted here can serve different purposes. They can be used as graphic elements such as a brand or company logo or branding. If only frames are printed, they can be used as protective elements or potting frames. Stand-alone bodies can be used as mechanical structures or supports and spacers, for example.
Design/description: The elements highlighted here are used to protect more delicate elements on intermediate surfaces. With minimal structure widths, these fine elements must be protected against heavy mechanical stress, e.g. during handling (transportation by the PCB manufacturer or EMS) to prevent damage.
Design/description: These elements are used to increase the creepage distance of neighboring conductive areas and elements on the surface of the PCB. This means, for example, that the creepage distance can be significantly increased while the distance between conductive areas on the surface of the PCB remains the same. This requires an increase and thus path lengthening in the Z-axis using acrylic lacquer.
Design/description: Thanks to additive printing technology, it is sufficient to print varnish only on areas of the design that need to be protected and covered (copper traces and surfaces).
Design/description: Due to the very small drop size, minimal structures can be printed. The limits were deliberately undercut on the hand sample. However, character sizes of 0.4 x 0.63 mm are perfectly conceivable.
Design/description: QR codes of different sizes, resolutions and contrasts (on copper or only on the insulator/prepreg) are displayed in these areas.
Design/description: In these areas, data matrix codes are displayed in different sizes, resolutions and contrasts (on copper or only on the insulator/prepreg) in 8.8 x 8.8mm, 6.6 x 6.6mm, 4.4 x 4.4mm and 2.2 x 2.2mm.
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