Integrated Inductor Layout for Compact Semiconductor Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
As integrated circuits shrink in size, the complexity of manufacturing integrated inductors increases, making it challenging to maintain equivalent performance while occupying a smaller area without increasing manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor structure comprising two inductors and input/output pads, where the central axes of their magnetic fields are sequentially arranged along a direction, allowing for a symmetrical structure that reduces the area occupied by the inductors and simplifies the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the size of integrated circuits is reduced, then the integration density is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nested inductors where a first inductor is positioned inside a second inductor, and a third inductor is positioned inside the first inductor. This nesting arrangement allows multiple inductors to occupy the same spatial region, significantly reducing the overall area required for inductor components while maintaining their individual electrical characteristics and avoiding increased manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking of inductors across multiple conductive layers to achieve area reduction. By arranging inductors in three-dimensional space rather than purely planar configurations, the design reduces the footprint area occupied by inductors while keeping manufacturing processes compatible with standard semiconductor fabrication techniques.
2Area of moving object
If the area of integrated inductors is reduced, then the integration density is improved, but the performance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The nested inductor configuration allows multiple inductors to share the same spatial region without interfering with each other's electrical performance. Each inductor maintains its designed inductance value and quality factor by being positioned in a nested arrangement that minimizes parasitic coupling, thus reducing area while preserving performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions specific inductors at different locations within the nested structure to optimize performance for different signal frequencies and applications. Each inductor can be independently designed with specific characteristics (inductance, Q-factor) tailored to its intended function, ensuring overall system performance is maintained despite area reduction.
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 enables the use of integrated inductors in a smaller area without compromising performance, reducing manufacturing complexity and enhancing signal bandwidth and high-frequency gain.
Implementation Method 1
a first central axis of a first magnetic field of the first inductor, and a second central axis of a second magnetic field of the second inductor are disposed sequentially along a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor structure includes a first inductor, a second inductor, and a first input/output (I/O) pad. The first I/O pad is coupled to the first inductor and the second inductor. The first I/O pad, a first central axis of a first magnetic field of the first inductor, and a second central axis of a second magnetic field of the second inductor are disposed sequentially along a first direction.