FPC connector trends

In recent years, with the ever-changing regulations of automotive LED lights in Europe and Japan, the use of daytime running lights has gradually increased, and the design of the dashboards of the cars has been increasingly updated. Demand for automotive flexible circuit boards (FPCs) is expected to increase, and will be more widely used in cable connection applications, such as battery management systems (BMS).

According to foreign media reports, Matsushita announced that it will fully produce "board-to-FPC connectors" on a large scale. The new connector is unique in construction, uses fewer components, is simpler to assemble, and frees up space for design improvements in automotive LED lights and other similar applications. At the same time, it can reduce the weight of the vehicle and reduce fuel consumption.
Panasonic's new board has the following features for the FPC connector:
The unique metal terminal connection structure allows the FPC and the substrate to be directly connected without the need for a trunk harness, thereby reducing the components used and simplifying the assembly process.
Automotive connectors are required to meet stringent vibration standards. The Panasonic connector's double-clip contact structure provides excellent vibration resistance, making it compatible with automotive applications such as LED lights and BMS. The connector can also be used for flexible circuit boards (FPCs), battery packs and panels connected to battery management systems (BMS), and shock-proof LED lights.
The connector is a two-piece type consisting of a plug (FPC side) and a socket (board side) for easy connection. In addition, the connector uses an inertial locking structure to prevent the socket and plug from being completely engaged during assembly, improving product reliability.
According to Matsushita, the new connector is suitable for cable connection of daytime headlights, taillights, rearview mirrors, instrument panels, shift levers, steering switches, BMS, cameras and the like.