Isolator Insulating Layer Structure Against Metal Diffusion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolators face reliability issues due to metal diffusion and dielectric breakdown, particularly when high voltages are applied, leading to leakage currents and reduced insulation life.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating insulating layers with silicon, carbon, and nitrogen, such as silicon nitride, to suppress metal diffusion between electrodes and the conductive body, thereby reducing the likelihood of dielectric breakdown and enhancing insulation reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional insulating layers are used between electrodes and conductive body, then device structure is simple, but metal diffusion occurs leading to dielectric breakdown and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by using a multi-layer insulating structure consisting of a first insulating layer (silicon nitride) and a second insulating layer (silicon oxide or similar). This composite structure combines the metal diffusion barrier properties of silicon nitride with the dielectric properties of silicon oxide, effectively preventing metal diffusion while maintaining electrical insulation and reducing leakage currents.
2Power
If high voltage is applied to transmit signals, then signal transmission capability is improved, but metal diffusion and leakage currents increase reducing operational life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by incorporating a first insulating layer made of silicon nitride between the electrodes and the conductive body before high voltage is applied. This layer acts as a preventive barrier that stops metal diffusion before it can occur, thereby preventing dielectric breakdown and extending the operational life of the isolator under high voltage conditions.
3Ease of manufacture
If metal diffusion is allowed to occur, then manufacturing process is simple, but dielectric breakdown occurs reducing insulation life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by forming the first insulating layer (silicon nitride) and second insulating layer structure before completing the electrode and conductive body fabrication. This preliminary insulating layer structure is built in advance to prevent metal diffusion during subsequent high voltage operation, thereby extending insulation life without significantly complicating the overall manufacturing process.
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 use of insulating layers with silicon, carbon, and nitrogen effectively suppresses metal diffusion, increasing the operational time before dielectric breakdown and improving the overall reliability of the isolator by reducing leakage currents and potential gradients.
Implementation Method 1
The first insulating layer is provided on the second electrode. The first insulating layer includes silicon, carbon, and nitrogen.
Implementation Method 2
An isolator transmits a signal by utilizing the change of a magnetic field or an electric field in a state in which the current is blocked.
Implementation Method 3
An isolator transmits a signal by utilizing the change of a magnetic field or an electric field in a state in which the current is blocked.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an isolator includes a first electrode, a second electrode, a conductive body, and a first insulating layer. The second electrode is provided on the first electrode and separated from the first electrode. The conductive body is provided around the first and second electrodes along a first plane perpendicular to a first direction. The first direction is from the first electrode toward the second electrode. The first insulating layer is provided on the second electrode. The first insulating layer includes silicon, carbon, and nitrogen.