Fuse Array Staggered Node Sharing for Integration Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuse arrays face challenges in increasing integration density and reducing size while maintaining effective signal transmission characteristics, particularly due to voltage drop issues and reduced integration degree caused by the need for strap regions.
Innovation Solution
A fuse array design that includes a staggered arrangement of fuse sets sharing floating nodes and contact nodes, with strapping contact plugs coupled to conductive lines between these sets, eliminating the need for separate strap regions and enhancing voltage compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If fuse sets are arranged in a conventional two-dimensional array, then the array structure is simple, but the integration density is low and the size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional two-dimensional array arrangement to a three-dimensional staggered arrangement where fuse sets are positioned at different vertical levels. This dimensional change allows for higher integration density within a smaller footprint area, resolving the contradiction between reducing array size and maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuse array is segmented into multiple fuse sets that share common floating nodes or contact nodes. This segmentation allows for more efficient space utilization and reduces the overall array size while maintaining functionality, as shared nodes eliminate redundant structures.
2Reliability
If strap regions are added to compensate for voltage drop, then signal transmission characteristics improve, but integration degree decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage compensation function directly into the conductive lines by adding strapping contact plugs at intermediate points along the conductive lines connecting fuse sets. This integration eliminates the need for separate strap regions, thereby maintaining high integration degree while improving signal transmission characteristics through reduced voltage drop.
Solution Approach 2:
Strapping contact plugs are introduced as intermediary elements that provide additional voltage compensation points along the conductive lines. These intermediaries reduce the overall resistance and voltage drop without requiring large separate strap regions, thus maintaining high integration density while improving signal transmission.
3Reliability
If the number of strapping contact plugs is increased to reduce resistance, then voltage compensation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Strapping contact plugs are strategically positioned at specific intermediate points along the conductive lines where voltage drop is most significant. This localized approach provides effective voltage compensation only where needed, reducing the total number of contact plugs required compared to a uniform distribution, thereby balancing voltage compensation effectiveness with device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuse array may include: an E-fuse including a plurality of active regions having a floating node and a contact node, and a plurality of gates overlapping the respective active regions and separated from each other between the floating node and the contact node; and a plurality of fuse sets each including two or more E-fuses and sharing the floating node or the contact node.