Method for making a flat flex cable

Abstract

The invention pertains to a flat flex cable ( 1 ) or a so-called FFC, in particular for use in vehicles, wherein said cable contains at least two electric conductors ( 2 ) that are surrounded by an insulating layer ( 3 ) of a plastic material. The invention is characterized by the fact that electronic components ( 11 ) are arranged on a circuit layout ( 6 ) on the surface of the flat flex cable ( 1 ) and connected to at least one conductor ( 2 ) of the flat flex cable. The invention also pertains to a method for manufacturing such an FFC.

1 - 6 . (Cancelled)  
   
   
       7 . Method for manufacturing a flat flex cable wherein the cable contains at least two electric conductors that are embedded in at least one insulating layer of a plastic material, a circuit layout is applied on the surface of the flat flex cable and connected to at least one conductor of the cable, and at least one electric or electronic component is arranged on the circuit layout, comprising the steps of: 
 producing at least one window-like opening in the surface of the flat conductor, in the insulating layer;    stamping a circuit layout in the form of a metallic strip conductor pattern on the insulating layer;    fitting the circuit layout with electric or electronic components; and    connecting the circuit layout in an electrically conductive fashion to at least one conductor of the flat flex cable.    
   
   
       8 . Method according to  claim 7 , wherein the window-like openings are produced by removing the insulating layer with a laser.  
   
   
       9 . Method according to  claim 7  wherein the circuit layout ( 6 , 9 ) at least partially covers at least one window-like opening, and a direct electrically conductive connection is produced between the circuit layout and the conductor of the flat flex cable.  
   
   
       10 . Method according to  claim 9 , wherein the window-like opening is provided on both sides of the flat flex cable, and the electrically conductive connection is produced by means of resistance welding.  
   
   
       11 . Method according to  claim 7  wherein the circuit layout is arranged adjacent to the window opening, and the electric connection between the circuit layout and the conductor of the flat conductor is produced with wire bonding techniques.  
   
   
       12 . Method according to  claim 7 , wherein the region of the flat flex cable which contains the circuit layout with the components is covered with a housing or a casting compound or a coat of protective lacquer.