Arc Protection Diode Layout in 3D Memory Circuit Stacks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Integrated circuit devices face challenges in achieving excellent electrical characteristics and improved integration due to the complexity and miniaturization of memory cells and operation circuits, necessitating a structure that enhances electrical performance while maintaining high integration.

Innovation Solution

The integration of an arc protection diode and a common source line driver connected to the diode, along with a conductive plate and first wiring structure, forms a peripheral circuit structure that overlaps a cell array structure vertically, providing a conductive path and protecting against arcing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If memory cells and operation circuits are miniaturized to achieve high integration, then integration density is improved, but electrical characteristics deteriorate due to increased complexity and reduced dimensions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration densityVSAvoidelectrical characteristics
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from planar 2D circuit layout to 3D vertical stacking architecture. Multiple circuit layers are stacked vertically with conductive plates and wiring structures connecting different levels, enabling high integration density while maintaining electrical performance through controlled inter-layer connections and reduced current path lengths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit is divided into multiple functional layers separated by conductive plates. Each layer contains specific circuits (memory cells, operation circuits, arc protection diodes) that are independently designed and connected through vertical wiring structures, allowing optimized electrical characteristics for each function while achieving overall high integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If arc protection diodes are added to protect against arcing, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against arcingVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The arc protection diode is integrated into the existing circuit architecture by sharing conductive plates and wiring structures with other circuits. The diode is formed using the same vertical stacking approach as memory cells, merging protection functionality with the existing 3D structure rather than adding separate protection components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Conductive plates and wiring structures serve multiple functions: they provide electrical connections between layers, act as common buses for multiple circuits, and form part of the arc protection diode structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated protection circuitry and minimizes overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration enhances electrical performance by preventing arcing and ensuring reliable operation of the integrated circuit device, thereby supporting high integration and improved electrical characteristics.

Implementation Method 1

an arc protection diode in the lower substrate, and a common source line driver connected to the arc protection diode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectArc protection: Electric Arc

Data Source

PatentUS20260059762A1Integrated circuit devices including arc protection diodes for memory structures
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US20260059762A1 patent drawing
  • US20260059762A1 patent drawing
  • US20260059762A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated circuit device includes a peripheral circuit structure including a lower substrate, an arc protection diode in the lower substrate, and a common source line driver connected to the arc protection diode, a conductive plate on the peripheral circuit structure, a cell array structure overlapping the peripheral circuit structure in a vertical direction with the conductive plate therebetween, and a first wiring structure connected between the arc protection diode and the conductive plate.