Multilayer Embedded Inductors for Compact Low-Ripple Power Routing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current power management systems face challenges in reducing size while maintaining effective power management, requiring new components and methods to minimize space consumption and address electromagnetic noise and ripple in power output signals.

Innovation Solution

The integration of multilayer electrical routing structures with inductive devices, such as serpentine and solenoid coils, within electronic packages and circuit boards to route and regulate power signals, utilizing conductive vias and shielding structures to minimize electromagnetic interference and reduce ripple.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If power management systems are reduced in size to meet customer needs, then space consumption is reduced, but space for electronic components is commensurately reduced or eliminated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower management system sizeVSAvoidspace for electronic components
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the inductor and capacitor components into a single integrated structure formed by conductive traces on the same substrate layer. The inductor traces and capacitor traces are combined to form a single component that provides both inductance and capacitance functions, eliminating the need for separate discrete components and reducing overall space requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated inductive device serves multiple functions: it provides inductance for power filtering, acts as an electromagnetic shield through its conductive structure, and integrates with the multilayer routing structure to deliver regulated power. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the power management system

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

2Reliability

If conventional separate components are used for inductors and capacitors, then component functionality is maintained, but space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent functionalityVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines separate inductor and capacitor components into a single integrated structure where conductive traces on the substrate form both inductive and capacitive elements. This merging maintains the necessary electrical functions while significantly reducing the total volume occupied by power management components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional routing structures are used, then electrical connections are established, but electromagnetic noise and ripple in power output signals increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionsVSAvoidelectromagnetic noise and ripple
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the conductive traces, which could potentially radiate electromagnetic noise, into shielding structures. The conductive traces are configured to act as electromagnetic shields that contain and redirect electromagnetic fields, transforming potential harmful radiation into beneficial shielding that reduces noise and ripple in the power output signals

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The multilayer routing structure with integrated inductive devices acts as an intermediary between the power input and output circuits. The conductive traces and vias are configured to filter and condition the power signals, reducing electromagnetic interference and ripple before the signals reach the output

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 approach enables compact power management systems with reduced electromagnetic noise and ripple, effectively delivering regulated power output signals while minimizing space and electromagnetic interference.

Implementation Method 1

The multilayer routing structure has one or more electrical conductors on each of at least two layers configured to route the power input signal from the external circuit to the IC and to route the regulated power output signal from the IC to the external circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

The one or more electrical conductors form an integrated inductive device having a respective portion disposed on each of the at least two layers and wherein the power output signal is coupled to the external circuit through the integrated inductive device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12068100B2Embedded and distributed inductive devices
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 EMPOWER SEMICONDUCTOR INC
  • US12068100B2 patent drawing
  • US12068100B2 patent drawing
  • US12068100B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic package comprises an integrated circuit (IC) configured to receive a power input signal and to deliver a regulated power output signal. A multilayer electrical routing structure is attached to the IC and is configured to couple the electronic package to an external circuit. The multilayer routing structure has one or more electrical conductors on each of at least two layers which are configured to route the power input signal from the external circuit to the IC and to route the regulated power output signal from the IC to the external circuit. The one or more electrical conductors form an integrated inductive device having a respective portion disposed on each of the at least two layers and the power output signal is coupled to the external circuit through the integrated inductive device.