Lead Frame Source Feedback Tap for Adjustable Short-Circuit Response

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power modules lack flexibility in adjusting the source feedback tap, which is crucial for enhancing resistance to short circuits, as the tap is typically predefined and not adaptable to different semiconductor configurations or customer-specific requirements.

Innovation Solution

A lead frame with a variable source feedback tap design, featuring a first and second part with adjustable contact connections, including soldered, adhesive, or welded connections, and elongated holes to vary inductance, allowing individual adaptation to semiconductor components and configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the source feedback tap is predefined by a stamped lead frame, then the manufacturing process is simple and cost-effective, but the adaptability to different semiconductor configurations and customer requirements is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to different semiconductor configurations
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lead frame is divided into a first part (gate, source, power source) and a second part, which are formed separately and then connected. This segmentation allows the first part to be customized for different semiconductor configurations while maintaining a standardized second part for manufacturing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The source feedback tap position is made variable through different contact connection configurations between the first and second parts. The tap position can be adjusted by changing the contact connection arrangement, enabling adaptation to different inductance requirements and semiconductor configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the source feedback tap position is fixed, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to optimize resistance to short circuits for different power transistors is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structure complexityVSAvoidresistance to short circuits
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The source feedback tap position is made adjustable by varying the contact connection configuration between the first and second parts of the lead frame. This allows optimization of the feedback tap position for different power transistor configurations to maximize short circuit resistance while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The inductance of the common load and control path is varied by changing the contact connection configuration and tap position. This parameter adjustment enables optimization of the source feedback effect for different semiconductor configurations and customer requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If the lead frame is designed as a single integrated part, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the flexibility to adjust source feedback tap and common inductance is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidflexibility to adjust source feedback tap
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lead frame is segmented into a first part containing the gate, source, and power source, and a second part that is connected separately. This segmentation provides the flexibility to adjust the source feedback tap position and common inductance by modifying the contact connection configuration between the two parts, while still maintaining a relatively simplified manufacturing process through standardized formation methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20250279338A1Variable source feedback tap
Publication Date: 2025.09.04 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US20250279338A1 patent drawing
  • US20250279338A1 patent drawing
  • US20250279338A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A lead frame for a power module for implementing a variable source feedback tap. The lead frame includes a first part and a second part. The first part is formed separately from the second part. The first part has at least one gate, one source and one power source. The gate, the source, and the power source are spaced apart from one another in a side-by-side manner. A variable source feedback tap is made between the power source and the source by a contact connection.