EMI Shielding Structure in InFO Package for High Density Interconnects

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing miniaturization of semiconductor dies and the need for higher I/O pad density in packaging pose challenges, including limited pad numbers due to pitch constraints, solder bridges, and inefficient use of space, especially in fan-in packages, and the inability to effectively manage electromagnetic interference (EMI) in fan-out packages.

Innovation Solution

The development of a package structure that includes a dielectric buffer layer, conductive features, and a shielding structure with dielectric layers and conductive films to redistribute I/O pads and reduce EMI, using a combination of organic and inorganic materials and processes like PVD and electro-less plating to form redistribution lines, side-shielding structures, and antennas, which are encapsulated and planarized to expose the device die and connect it effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If fan-in packaging is used to reduce packaging complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but the number of I/O pads is limited due to pitch constraints and solder bridge risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackaging complexityVSAvoidnumber of I/O pads
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional pad layout (fan-in) to a three-dimensional redistribution structure (fan-out), allowing I/O pads to be redistributed over a larger area through multiple dielectric layers and conductive vias, thereby increasing the number of usable I/O pads without increasing pitch density

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

2Quantity of substance

If fan-out packaging is used to increase I/O pad density, then the number of I/O pads is increased, but electromagnetic interference management becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of I/O padsVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces EMI shielding structures as intermediary elements between the I/O pads and the external environment. These shielding structures, positioned within the dielectric layers, act as mediators that block and contain electromagnetic interference while allowing the high-density I/O pad redistribution to function effectively

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Quantity of substance

If I/O pad pitch is decreased to increase pad density, then I/O pad density is improved, but solder bridges may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveI/O pad densityVSAvoidsolder bridge risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the solder bridge risk by moving from planar pad arrangement to a multi-layer vertical redistribution architecture. The I/O pads are distributed across multiple dielectric layers and connected through conductive vias, effectively increasing spacing in the horizontal plane while maintaining high connectivity density through the vertical dimension

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

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 allows for increased I/O pad density and improved EMI shielding, reducing the risk of solder bridges and enhancing packaging efficiency by redistributing pads and isolating electromagnetic interference, thereby improving yield and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

processes like PVD and electro-less plating to form redistribution lines

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPVD (Physical Vapor Deposition): Physical Vapour Deposition

Implementation Method 2

processes like PVD and electro-less plating to form redistribution lines

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectro-less plating: Electrodeposition

Data Source

PatentUS10950556B2EMI shielding structure in InFO package
Publication Date: 2021.03.16 TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US10950556B2 patent drawing
  • US10950556B2 patent drawing
  • US10950556B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes forming a metal post over a first dielectric layer, attaching a second dielectric layer over the first dielectric layer, encapsulating a device die, the second dielectric layer, a shielding structure, and the metal post in an encapsulating material, planarizing the encapsulating material to reveal the device die, the shielding structure, and the metal post, and forming an antenna electrically coupling to the device die. The antenna has a portion vertically aligned to a portion of the device die.