Dual-Active-Layer Transistor Layout for Independent Gate Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Transistors used in electronic devices, particularly in flat panel displays, face challenges in achieving optimal operational characteristics due to variations in channel layer materials, which affect their electrical properties and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates two active layers with separate gates and electrodes, allowing for independent control of electrical characteristics by applying voltages to each gate, with one active layer being closer to the first gate and the other closer to the second gate, and the electrodes being partially disposed between the active layers to enhance contact area and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single active layer with one gate is used, then the device structure is simple, but the operational characteristics cannot be optimized independently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent control of electrical characteristicsVSAvoidnumber of active layers and gates
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transistor is divided into two active layers (first and second active layers) with separate gates (first gate and second gate), allowing independent control of electrical characteristics for each layer. This segmentation enables versatile operational modes such as independent switching or combined operation, resolving the contradiction between control adaptability and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If the source and drain electrodes are positioned only at the ends of active layers, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the contact area is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact area between electrodes and active layersVSAvoidelectrode positioning configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The source and drain electrodes are positioned not only at the end portions but also at the middle portions of the active layers, utilizing the vertical and lateral dimensions to maximize contact area. This multi-position electrode configuration increases the effective contact area without significantly complicating the manufacturing process, as it follows a systematic pattern of placement at both end and middle regions.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20120146713A1Transistors And Electronic Devices Including The Same
Publication Date: 2012.06.14 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US20120146713A1 patent drawing
  • US20120146713A1 patent drawing
  • US20120146713A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A transistor includes a first active layer having a first channel region and a second active layer having a second channel region. A first gate of the transistor is configured to control electrical characteristics of at least the first active layer and a second gate is configured to control electrical characteristics of at least the second active layer. A source electrode contacts the first and second active layers. A drain electrode also contacts the first and second active layers.