High-frequency module shield layers for height reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

High-frequency modules with metal shield layers face challenges in achieving desired shield characteristics while maintaining a reduced height, as existing shield layers have low adhesive strength and anti-corrosiveness, and deposition methods result in uneven thickness, obstructing module height reduction.

Innovation Solution

A high-frequency module design featuring a first shield layer laminated on the sealing resin layer's opposite and peripheral surfaces, with a second shield layer reinforcing the peripheral side surface, allowing for optimized thickness distribution and reduced module height while ensuring shield characteristics, using a sputtering method to form layers with specific metal compositions and structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a metal shield layer is deposited on the mold resin surface to intercept electromagnetic waves, then shield characteristics are improved, but adhesive strength and anti-corrosiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic wave interferenceVSAvoidadhesive strength and anti-corrosiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite material structure by combining multiple film layers (adhesion film, conductive film, protective film) to create a shield layer that simultaneously achieves electromagnetic wave interception, strong adhesion to mold resin, and corrosion resistance. Each layer contributes specific properties that collectively resolve the contradiction between shield characteristics and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an adhesion film as an intermediary layer between the mold resin and the conductive shield layer. This intermediary layer specifically addresses the adhesion problem by providing a surface that bonds well to both the resin substrate and the metal conductive film, thereby resolving the low adhesive strength issue while maintaining shield effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the shield layer thickness is increased on the peripheral side surface to obtain desired shield characteristics, then shield effectiveness is improved, but module height increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic wave shielding effectivenessVSAvoidmodule height
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform film thickness distribution across different regions of the shield layer. The deposition process is controlled to provide thicker film coverage on peripheral side surfaces where shielding is most critical, while maintaining thinner coverage on top surfaces, thereby achieving effective shielding without proportionally increasing overall module height.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from considering only vertical thickness to utilizing three-dimensional spatial distribution of film thickness. By controlling deposition angles and source positioning, the shield layer achieves optimized thickness in multiple dimensions - thicker at peripheral edges and thinner at central top areas - resolving the contradiction between shielding effectiveness and height reduction.

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

3Reliability

If a three-layer shield structure with adhesion film, conductive film, and protective film is formed, then adhesive strength and anti-corrosiveness are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive strength and anti-corrosivenessVSAvoidshield layer structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functional requirements (adhesion, conductivity, corrosion protection) into a single integrated shield layer structure. By combining these functions into one multi-layer component deposited in sequence, the patent achieves high reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the layers work together as a unified system rather than separate components.

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 module achieves reduced height with enhanced shield characteristics by distributing thickness effectively between the first and second shield layers, improving adhesive strength and anti-corrosiveness, and reducing peeling due to similar thermal expansion coefficients.

Implementation Method 1

using a sputtering method to form layers with specific metal compositions and structures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSputtering: Sputtering

Data Source

PatentUS10455748B2High-frequency module
Publication Date: 2019.10.22 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US10455748B2 patent drawing
  • US10455748B2 patent drawing
  • US10455748B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A high-frequency module includes a wiring board, a component that is mounted on an upper surface of the wiring board, a sealing resin layer that is laminated on the upper surface of the wiring board and that seals the component, a first shield layer that is laminated on the sealing resin layer so as to cover an opposite surface of the sealing resin layer and a peripheral side surface of the sealing resin layer, the opposite surface being opposite to the upper surface of the wiring board, and a second shield layer that is laminated on a portion of the first shield layer that covers the peripheral side surface of the sealing resin layer. In this case, even if the first shield layer cannot be made thick enough for obtaining desired shield characteristics, the second shield layer can provide a thickness corresponding to the insufficient thickness.