Rediscovering Multilayer Rigid-Flex with Z-interconnect Technology

Rigid-flex allows designers to replace multiple substrates interconnected with connectors, wires, and ribbon cables with a single package offering improved performance, reliability, and a potential cost-effective solution. However, processing and materials selection is critical in order to achieve high quality multilayer, rigid-flex structures. To date, there is no technology available which can economically produce high density multilayer rigid-flex with rigid or flex originating from any layer in the stack. In the present study, a novel strategy allowing for multi-layer rigid flex structures is reported. Specifically, metal-to-metal z-axis electrical interconnection among the flexible and rigid elements during lamination to form a single package rigid-flex structure is described. Conductive joints are formed during lamination using an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA). As a result, structures can be fabricated with multiple flexible elements at any arbitrary layer. Recent development work on flex joining using different pre-pregs is highlighted, particularly with respect to their integration in laminate chip carrier substrates, and the reliability of the joints formed between the rigid and flex surfaces. A variety of rigid-flex structures were fabricated, with 1 to 3 flex layers laminated into printed wiring board substrates. Photographs and optical microscopy were used to investigate the joining, bending, and failure mechanism. Several classes of flexible materials, including polyimides, PTFE, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), have been used to develop high-performance rigid-flex packages. Rigid-flex packages with embedded passives and actives are also being investigated.