Multi-Layer BGA-to-PCB Interface to Limit Adjacent Pad Shorting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing interfaces between ball grid array devices and printed circuit boards face challenges in maintaining efficient conduction while minimizing shorting with adjacent pads, particularly in non-surface mount socket applications.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layered structure interface featuring a ball guide layer with a through hole and dual-width elastomeric portions, where a first elastomeric portion with a greater width is positioned between the through hole and a second elastomeric portion with a smaller width, forming a conductive path between solder balls and contact pads while minimizing contact with adjacent pads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single-layer elastomeric structure is used, then the structure is simple, but conduction efficiency with adjacent pads cannot be optimized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconduction efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric structure is divided into multiple layers (first elastomeric layer and second elastomeric layer) with different widths. The first layer has a first width and the second layer has a second width, allowing each layer to perform different functions in the conduction path. This segmentation enables optimization of conduction efficiency at different stages while maintaining structural manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the elastomeric structure have different widths tailored to specific locations. The first elastomeric layer has a wider first width for optimal contact with the solder ball, while the second elastomeric layer has a narrower second width for precise alignment with the contact pad. This local variation in geometry optimizes conduction efficiency at each interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If the elastomeric portion width is increased to improve conduction, then conduction efficiency improves, but shorting with adjacent pads increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconduction efficiencyVSAvoidshorting risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric structure is segmented into multiple layers with different widths. The first elastomeric layer has a first width optimized for solder ball contact, while the second elastomeric layer has a second width optimized for contact pad alignment. This segmentation allows the structure to achieve good conduction efficiency without excessive width that would cause shorting with adjacent pads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastomeric structure has different widths at different locations and layers. The first width of the first elastomeric layer is wider to ensure good contact with the solder ball, while the second width of the second elastomeric layer is narrower to precisely match the contact pad dimensions and avoid adjacent pad shorting. This local quality variation resolves the contradiction between conduction efficiency and shorting prevention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If a multi-layered dual-width elastomeric structure is used, then conduction efficiency and shorting prevention are optimized, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The elastomeric structure is divided into a first elastomeric layer and a second elastomeric layer, each with different widths. This segmentation allows for optimized conduction and shorting prevention while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process. Each layer can be formed using standard elastomeric fabrication techniques, and the layered structure can be assembled through conventional stacking and bonding methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dual-width design with different elastomeric layer widths is integrated into the overall structure in a way that maintains manufacturing feasibility. The first elastomeric layer with first width and second elastomeric layer with second width can be manufactured using modified standard processes, where the width variations are incorporated during the elastomeric formation or assembly stages without requiring entirely new manufacturing approaches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 design enhances conduction between solder balls and contact pads, reducing the likelihood of shorting with adjacent pads, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of the connection.

Implementation Method 1

The first elastomeric portion is positioned between the through hole of the ball guide layer and the second elastomeric portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

conduction between a particular solder ball joint and a respective contact pad of a printed circuit board is improved

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12080668B2Multi-layered structure interface between a ball grid array device and a printed circuit board
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 DELL PROD LP
  • US12080668B2 patent drawing
  • US12080668B2 patent drawing
  • US12080668B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-layered structure interface between a ball grid array (BGA) device and a printed circuit board (PCB), including a ball guide layer comprising a through hole; a first elastomeric portion of a first layer in superimposition with at least a portion of the through hole, the first elastomeric portion having a first width; and a second elastomeric portion of a second layer having a second width; wherein first elastomeric portion is positioned between the through hole of the ball guide layer and the second elastomeric portion, wherein the first width of the first elastomeric portion is greater than the second width of the second elastomeric portion.