Feature: Components
A three-dimensional component that combines electrical and mechanical functions allows for endless possibilities
3D-MID
circuits give components more
functionality and greater density
By Harting development engineers T
he most remarkable aspect of technology is the constant development and improvements. Today’s laptops and smartphones are slimmer and smaller than ever before, and medical devices are designed to be unobtrusive and barely visible to the naked eye.
As electronic devices continue to evolve and shrink, so do
their circuits and, ultimately, the systems they are in. 3D circuits, also known as “3D-MID”, or three-dimensional mechatronic integrated devices, make this even more possible, by enabling more compact designs whilst enhancing density.
The miniaturisation revolution in electronics Smaller devices also mean lower environmental impact. A laptop, for example, uses 80% less power than a desktop computer, with peak power consumption of 60W compared to 175W for desktops. Miniaturisation has revolutionised many sectors, from medical and healthcare to automotive, not to mention consumer and industrial electronics. Here are a few drivers of the trend:
• Aesthetics: Users expect devices to be visually appealing and well-designed.
• Portability: Users also want devices to be lightweight and easy to carry.
• Low power consumption and eco-friendliness: Users increasingly want devices with low power consumption, in their effort to reduce their impact on the environment. Smaller parts consume less energy, which lowers operating costs, increases battery life and promotes greener products.
• Less heat dissipation Since smaller parts use less power, they generate less heat. Tis means bulky heatsinks or fans can be removed, reducing weight, power, noise and cost.
• Cost savings Whilst miniaturisation can be initially costly, it uses fewer materials, saving money in the long run.
3D-MID Almost every industry is moving toward functional density, meaning that hardware components must be smaller and interconnected. 3D-MID can fulfil these requirements by reducing volume and optimising space whilst giving parts more functionality. Te term “mechatronics” was coined in 1969 by a senior
engineer at the Japanese firm Yaskawa. It is a combination of the words “mecha” (machines) and “tronics” (electronics). Since then, the definition has evolved. It is now used to describe
www.electronicsworld.co.uk September 2023 35
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