ESD Protection Circuit With Diode And Clamping Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing integrated circuits require multiple diodes in series to achieve higher electrostatic discharge (ESD) voltages, leading to increased component count and space usage, as well as potential failure points, while also being inflexible in setting discharge voltages without additional diodes.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a single diode and a clamping device in each ESD line, which allows current flow only when the voltage drop between common lines exceeds a predetermined discharge voltage, thereby reducing component count and enabling adjustable discharge voltage settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple diodes are connected in series to achieve higher discharge voltage, then the discharge voltage capability is improved, but the component count and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedischarge voltage capabilityVSAvoidcomponent count

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a diode and a clamping device into a single integrated ESD protection unit. This merging allows the circuit to achieve high discharge voltage capability without requiring multiple diodes in series, thereby reducing component count while maintaining or improving protection effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping device serves multiple functions: it enables high voltage discharge protection, controls current flow direction, and provides voltage clamping to protect sensitive circuits. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple diodes are connected in series to achieve higher discharge voltage, then the discharge voltage capability is improved, but the space occupied in the integrated circuit increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedischarge voltage capabilityVSAvoidspace occupied

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the diode and clamping device into a single ESD protection unit, the patent significantly reduces the space required in the integrated circuit layout. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate diode components and their associated connections, freeing up valuable chip real estate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple diodes are used to set higher discharge voltage, then the discharge voltage level is adjustable, but the device complexity and failure opportunities increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedischarge voltage setting flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device allows for adjustable discharge voltage levels by changing its clamping voltage parameter. This provides flexibility in setting different protection thresholds without requiring different numbers of diodes, enabling voltage adaptation through parameter adjustment rather than structural reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Device complexity

If a single diode is used, then the component count is reduced, but the discharge voltage capability is limited to preset voltage levels

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent countVSAvoiddischarge voltage range

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device extends the functionality of a single diode by providing voltage clamping capability at higher voltage levels. This combination allows the ESD protection circuit to handle a wide range of discharge voltages while maintaining low component count, as the clamping device compensates for the single diode's limited voltage capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 configuration effectively blocks current leakage and provides robust electrostatic discharge protection with fewer components, allowing for a wide range of discharge voltage settings without the need for additional diodes, thus optimizing space and reducing failure risks.

Implementation Method 1

Diodes are typically used to configure an ESD line for a desired direction of flow, where a diode allows current to flow in one direction but not in the other

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDiode effect: Diode

Implementation Method 2

The first electrostatic discharge line blocks current flow when a voltage drop between the first and second common lines is below a first discharge voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic discharge: Electrostatic Discharge

Data Source

PatentUS20170194311A1Integrated circuits with electrostatic discharge protection

Publication Date: 2017.07.06 GLOBALFOUNDRIES SINGAPORE PTE LTD

AI summary

Integrated circuits and methods of producing such integrated circuits are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, an integrated circuit includes a first common line and a second common line. A first electrostatic discharge line is in electrical communication with the first and second common lines. The first electrostatic discharge line includes a first diode and a first clamping device.