IPC-2223
Design standard for flexible and rigid-flex PCBs, covering bend radius, pad placement, and stiffener design.
Definition
IPC-2223 establishes specific design requirements for flexible and rigid-flex printed boards when used with IPC-2221. It addresses bend radius requirements (minimum 6x thickness for dynamic flex, 3x for static), pad and via placement relative to flex zones (keep them out of bend areas), coverlay specifications, stiffener design, and structural requirements unique to flexible circuits. If you're designing flex, this standard prevents the common mistakes that cause flex failures. Current version is IPC-2223E.