Multi-MEMS Module Acoustic Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing MEMS modules in communication devices require multiple individual components, leading to increased costs, space consumption, and complexity in interconnection, making them fault-susceptible and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A multi-MEMS module with two MEMS chips acoustically coupled to separate openings and an ASIC chip for signal processing, reducing the need for direct interconnection between MEMS chips and using a single ASIC chip for signal evaluation, allowing for compact design and improved sound direction determination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple individual MEMS components are used in communication devices, then the devices can achieve reduction of interference signals by means of signal processing, but this causes increased costs, higher space consumption, and more complex interconnection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference signal reductionVSAvoidinterconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple MEMS components (microphones or sensors) and their associated signal processing circuits into a single integrated MEMS module. This merging eliminates the need for complex external interconnections between separate components while maintaining the ability to process interference signals through integrated circuitry within the module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated MEMS module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses multiple MEMS sensors for interference signal reduction, incorporates signal processing circuits for data evaluation, and provides a compact unified interface for external connections. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required multiple separate components and their interconnections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple individual MEMS components are installed in devices, then signal processing capabilities are enhanced, but production and mounting costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal processing capabilityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple MEMS components and their signal processing circuits into a single module, the patent enables economies of scale in production. The integrated design allows for batch manufacturing of complete functional units, reducing per-unit costs compared to producing and assembling multiple separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The signal processing circuits are pre-integrated within the MEMS module during manufacturing, performing signal processing functions in advance before the module is installed in the final device. This preliminary integration of functionality reduces the need for additional assembly steps and testing in the final device production line.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If individual MEMS components are used with separate interconnections, then each component can be independently optimized, but the overall device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent performanceVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a nested structure where multiple MEMS components and their associated circuits are integrated within a single module housing. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to occupy shared space efficiently, maintaining individual component optimization while achieving compact overall dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The integration of multiple MEMS components and circuits into a three-dimensional module structure allows for efficient spatial arrangement. By utilizing vertical stacking and layered integration within the module, the design achieves high component density without increasing the horizontal footprint, thus reducing overall device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 multi-MEMS module reduces production and mounting costs, minimizes device size, and enhances signal quality by enabling stereophonic sound evaluation and direction determination with improved chip parameter synchronism, while maintaining acoustic decoupling and electrical interconnection.

Implementation Method 1

a first MEMS chip, which is acoustically coupled to the first opening, and a second MEMS chip, which is acoustically coupled to the second opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic coupling: Acoustics

Implementation Method 2

sound waves or pressure differences have finite propagation speeds in a gas mixture

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSound wave propagation: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS10015600B2Multi-MEMS module
Publication Date: 2018.07.03 INVENSENSE INC
  • US10015600B2 patent drawing
  • US10015600B2 patent drawing
  • US10015600B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-MEMS module is specified which can be produced expediently and enables a smaller design. The module comprises a housing having an interior and a first and a second opening, a first MEMS chip and a second MEMS chip. The first MEMS chip is acoustically coupled to the first opening. The second MEMS chip is acoustically coupled to the second opening.