The medical industry is constantly evolving with new diseases emerging, requiring upgraded equipment to handle the challenges. PCB design and manufacturing companies have been developing devices for testing novel diseases and adapting to the changing landscape in the medical industry. In this article, we will discuss the latest trends in medical PCB design and manufacturing and how your CM can respond to these emerging trends.
Trends in Medical PCB Design The medical industry is dynamic, with several advancements in robotics, wearables, machine learning, AI-based software, higher resolution computer vision, and more. Medical-grade PCBs are becoming smaller, denser, and thinner, with higher component placement density, reducing the margin of error and facilitating PCB design adaptability. High-power boards accommodating abundant components and higher voltage levels are in demand, requiring optimized thermal design and minimized heat dissipation. Non-standard PCB form-factor designs, high-density interconnect (HDI) boards, flexible structures, IoT usage, and the spread of commercial-off-the-shelf components (COTS) are also emerging trends in medical PCB design.
PCB Manufacturing Trends in Medical Systems The communication systems and software need to improve manufacturing speed and efficiency, requiring optimal medical-grade PCBs. Collaborating with the right CM partner early in the development process to incorporate design intent throughout the PCB build process is crucial. Digital twin technology helps prevent waste and mitigate development costs, while optimizing medical PCBA development to meet high yield rates using design for assembly (DFA) and design for manufacturing (DFM) standards and guidelines. Maintaining open and transparent communication with your CM and incorporating agile manufacturing can minimize production disruptions and incorporate iterative PCB design changes.
Challenges in Medical PCB Device Design Designing medical electronic devices requires complying with key standards and regulations to ensure the safety of medical professionals and patients. However, major technological breakthroughs take years to impact the market due to longer intervals for distribution approvals, drying up of raw material supplies, changing customer demands, and reshaping product design and development.
Summary PCB design and manufacturing trends are disrupting the market with positive momentum in design innovation, reliability, and performance. Certified and experienced CMs can build high-quality and error-free PCB assemblies for medical systems that meet rigorous medical industry standards. The medical industry is a niche area where human lives are at stake, and reliable PCBs are essential.