Electrode-Edge Isolator Layout for Dielectric Breakdown Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolators face challenges in preventing dielectric breakdown, particularly at the lower end of the electrodes due to high electric field intensity and leakage currents, which can lead to device failure.
Innovation Solution
The isolator design incorporates a first dielectric portion with a higher relative dielectric constant than the insulating portions, positioned around the second electrode along the X-Y plane, and a conductive body connected to a reference potential to reduce electric field intensity and leakage currents, thereby minimizing the risk of breakdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional isolator structure is used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but high electric field intensity at the lower end of electrodes causes dielectric breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing a first dielectric portion with higher relative dielectric constant specifically at the lower end of the second electrode, while other regions use standard insulating portions. This localized modification targets the specific area where electric field intensity is highest, improving breakdown resistance without unnecessarily complicating the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining insulating portions and a first dielectric portion with different relative dielectric constants in a single isolator structure. The first dielectric portion (with higher relative dielectric constant) is positioned at the lower end of the second electrode, while insulating portions with lower relative dielectric constant are used in other regions, creating a composite structure that optimizes both reliability and electrical performance.
2Reliability
If insulating portions with uniform dielectric properties are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but leakage currents at the lower end of electrodes increase breakdown risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by using insulating portions with different dielectric properties at different locations. Specifically, the first dielectric portion with higher relative dielectric constant is placed at the lower end of the second electrode where leakage currents are most problematic, while standard insulating portions are used elsewhere. This targeted approach addresses the leakage current issue without requiring complete redesign of all insulating structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the relative dielectric constant of the dielectric material based on location. The first dielectric portion uses a material with higher relative dielectric constant compared to the insulating portions, which have lower relative dielectric constants. This parameter variation optimizes the electrical field distribution and reduces leakage currents at critical locations while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
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 proposed design effectively reduces the maximum electric field intensity at the lower end of the electrodes, lowering the likelihood of dielectric breakdown and enhancing the stability and reliability of signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
A relative dielectric constant of the first dielectric portion is greater than a relative dielectric constant of the first insulating portion and greater than a relative dielectric constant of the second insulating portion
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an isolator includes first and second electrodes, first and second insulating portions, and a first dielectric portion. The first insulating portion is provided on the first electrode. The second electrode is provided on the first insulating portion. The second insulating portion is provided around the second electrode along a first plane perpendicular to a first direction. The second insulating portion contacts the second electrode. The first dielectric portion is provided between the first and second insulating portions. At least a portion of the first dielectric portion contacts the second electrode and is positioned around the second electrode along the first plane. A distance between a lower end of the second electrode and a first interface between the first dielectric portion and the second insulating portion is less than a distance between the first interface and an upper end of the second electrode.