MMC Module Insulation Layout for Leakage Current Suppression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional magnetic-molding compound (MMC) fillers in IC modules cause undesirable leakage current due to metallic particles between the IC die and other components, leading to potential module failure.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an insulative layer between the IC die and the leadframe, with controlled gap thickness to limit MMC filler particle size, thereby reducing leakage current by insulating the contact pads and limiting the MMC filler to smaller, non-conductive particles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If magnetic-molding compound (MMC) filler is used to form the magnetic core, then energy storage capacity is enhanced, but leakage current increases due to metallic particles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy storage capacityVSAvoidleakage current
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The gap between the IC die and leadframe is segmented into multiple regions by introducing an insulative layer, which divides the MMC filler into smaller particles that cannot bridge the insulative layer, thereby preventing leakage current paths while maintaining magnetic core functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An insulative layer is introduced as an intermediary between the IC die and leadframe, preventing direct contact between metallic MMC particles and conductive surfaces, thus eliminating leakage current while allowing the MMC filler to maintain its energy storage function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If insulative layer is added to prevent leakage current, then leakage current is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleakage currentVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulative layer is merged with the existing gap structure between the IC die and leadframe, combining the insulation function with the existing physical spacing, thereby preventing leakage current without significantly increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The thickness and material properties of the insulative layer are optimized to provide sufficient insulation against leakage current while maintaining compatibility with existing manufacturing processes and device dimensions, thus preventing leakage without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution effectively reduces leakage current, enhancing energy storage capacity and preventing early module failure by suppressing leakage paths through controlled insulation and MMC filler particle size.

Implementation Method 1

an insulative layer between the solder elements... effectively reduces leakage current... by insulating the contact pads

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS20250273524A1Insulation for magnetic-molding compound (MMC) module
Publication Date: 2025.08.28 TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC
  • US20250273524A1 patent drawing
  • US20250273524A1 patent drawing
  • US20250273524A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A module includes: an integrated circuit (IC) die; a leadframe having contact pads; solder elements coupled between the IC die and the contact pads; an insulative layer between the solder elements; and magnetic-molding compound (MMC) filler between the IC die and the leadframe.