Epoxy Via Frame Structure for Short Optical Transceiver Interconnects

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Solution Overview

Problem

In high-data-rate optical transceivers, there is a need for a packaging solution that accommodates electro-optical components and provides short electrical interconnects to preserve signal integrity.

Innovation Solution

A via frame is provided, comprising a sheet of epoxy mold compound with a plurality of holes filled with conductive elements, such as metal-filled epoxy or copper-filled epoxy with silver-coated copper particles, and conductive bumps on the surfaces for electrical connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional packaging solutions are used, then component accommodation is achieved, but electrical interconnect length increases causing signal integrity degradation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal integrityVSAvoidelectrical interconnect length
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging structure is segmented into multiple functional layers: the via frame substrate with embedded conductive vias, electro-optical components mounted on the frame, and conductive bumps providing interconnects. This segmentation allows each component to be positioned optimally, minimizing interconnect length while maintaining signal integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The via frame acts as an intermediary structure between electro-optical components and the packaging substrate. It provides a platform with pre-formed conductive vias and bumps that serve as intermediate connection points, reducing the need for long trace interconnects and improving signal integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If short electrical interconnects are implemented, then signal integrity is preserved, but packaging complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal integrityVSAvoidpackaging structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The via frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for electro-optical components, establishes electrical connections through embedded conductive vias, provides mounting positions for conductive bumps, and acts as a structural platform. This multi-functionality reduces overall packaging complexity despite achieving short interconnects.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The via frame merges several functions into a single integrated structure: substrate support, conductive interconnect formation, component mounting platform, and bump attachment base. By combining these functions, the packaging complexity is managed while maintaining short electrical interconnects for signal integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The via frame effectively provides short electrical interconnects between electro-optical components, preserving signal integrity and supporting high-data-rate operations in optical transceivers.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of conductive elements, each extending through a respective one of the holes... each of the conductive elements is a metal-filled epoxy element... each of the conductive elements includes copper-filled epoxy... the copper-filled epoxy includes a plurality of silver-coated copper particles in a cured epoxy matrix

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12308307B2Through mold via frame
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 ROCKLEY PHOTONICS LTD
  • US12308307B2 patent drawing
  • US12308307B2 patent drawing
  • US12308307B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A via frame. In some embodiments, the via frame includes: a sheet of epoxy mold compound, having a plurality of holes each extending through the sheet of epoxy mold compound, and a plurality of conductive elements, each extending through a respective one of the holes.