With increasing e-mobility and autonomous driving, the demand for electronically controlled functions and components in cars is rising rapidly. Future vehicle generations will use numerous apps to navigate occupants from A to B as comfortably and autonomously as possible. A small, low-profile component is gaining importance in this scenario. A few millimeters wide and a few centimeters high, it is nevertheless crucial for the driving and functional readiness of almost all processes in the car: connectors. On average, there are already more than 2,500 of them at various switching points in a car. In view of new safety systems, higher demands on the infotainment system and autonomous driving, the requirements for quality, reliability and assembly are continuing to increase. Intelligent surface improvements based on so-called DLIP technology (Direct Laser Interference Patterning) can set new standards in this area.
The aim is to ensure that the electrical contacts guarantee reliable and uninterrupted current and signal transport under all external conditions, including temperature, mechanical vibration or moisture, while at the same time meeting all manufacturing, material and, in particular, assembly-related requirements. In the case of high-pole connectors in particular, the aim is to accommodate as many electrical contacts as possible in one housing. At the same time, the mating force should be as low as possible or at least not exceed the maximum specified value. Often, the optimization of the electrical contact resistance also plays an important role.
Read the detailed report in the mo issue 11/2022 or online here!