Method for Producing a Functional Structure and Functional Structure

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a method for manufacturing functional structures—such as waveguides, antennas, and other electronic components—by applying a metal layer onto a main body (usually made from plastic or ceramic), where the surface includes specially designed anchoring elements (like indentations or protrusions) to significantly improve the adhesion of the metal coating. These anchoring elements can be formed during 3D printing or other manufacturing steps, and help ensure that the metal layer bonds strongly to the non-metallic substrate. The method can use various metal deposition techniques (chemical, electrochemical, inkjet, etc.) and results in a durable, conductive layer, even on complex or delicate geometries.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Manufacturing high-frequency components (e.g., waveguides, resonators, filters) with lightweight plastics instead of metal.
• Creating antennas (such as horn or helix antennas) with precise conductive coatings for telecommunications or IoT devices.
• Producing molded interconnect devices (MIDs) for integrated electronics in automotive, consumer electronics, or medical devices.
• Fabricating printed circuit patterns on 3D-shaped substrates (e.g., for wearables, smart glasses, or touchscreens).
• Decorative metal coating on plastic objects that require good adhesion for aesthetics or durability.
• Solar cell or smart glass panel components needing precise, durable metal layers.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables strong, reliable adhesion of metal layers on plastics or ceramics, overcoming known issues with poor bonding.
• Allows the use of low-cost, lightweight, or 3D-printed base materials in advanced electronic components, reducing material and manufacturing costs.
• Eliminates the need for hazardous surface treatments (like hexavalent chromium etching), improving worker safety and environmental compliance.
• Compatible with modern additive manufacturing (3D printing), enabling flexible production of custom, complex, or miniaturized devices.
• Results in smoother and more conductive surfaces, enhancing device performance, especially in high-frequency electronics.
• Adaptable to a wide range of metal types and deposition processes, broadening its application scope.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a functional structure, having the steps of: providing a main part of the functional structure; and applying at least one metal layer onto a surface of the main part, wherein the surface of the main part has one or more anchoring elements at least in some regions which are designed and arranged so as to improve the adhesion of the metal layer to the surface in comparison to an adhesion of the metal layer to a surface without anchoring elements.