Polymer-conductor matrix electrical interconnect

Abstract

A surface treatment of a printed trace improves electrical conductivity at a contact area defining an insertion or engagement of a circuit element. Mechanical and chemical treatment at a contact area of an extruded trace generated from 3-dimensional (3D) printing techniques mitigates resistance of the surface. A conductive trace may be extruded from a conductive filament material including conductive granules, flakes or powder. A solvent or etchant applied to the extruded surface at the contact point removes, dissolves or otherwise abrades the contact area. A mechanical drilling or incision may also be applied. Dissolution of the non-conductive material exposes the conductive material for improved contact with a conductive epoxy or paste applied to the contact area for receiving a conductive terminal (pin or pad) from a circuit element.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.