Multilayer Electrode Layout to Suppress Electrochemical Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic components with outer electrodes at side surfaces of insulators are prone to electrochemical migration due to moisture ingress through gaps, which is not adequately addressed by existing convex-shaped inner electrode designs.
Innovation Solution
The electronic component incorporates dummy electrodes on either side of the side electrodes with an insulating portion in between, extending the moisture entry path and preventing direct contact with inner electrodes, thereby suppressing electrochemical migration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a convex-shaped portion is formed at the inner electrode to prevent moisture entry, then moisture entry along the side edge is suppressed, but electrochemical migration between the inner electrode and side electrode cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dummy electrode as an intermediary element between the side electrode and the inner electrode. This dummy electrode serves as a mediator that blocks the direct path for electrochemical migration while maintaining the moisture prevention function of the convex-shaped portion. The dummy electrode effectively decouples the moisture barrier function from the electrochemical migration prevention function, allowing both to be optimized independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrode structure by introducing a dummy electrode that divides the potential migration path into separate segments. By placing the dummy electrode between the side electrode and inner electrode, the continuous conductive path is broken into discontinuous segments, preventing electrochemical migration while preserving the convex-shaped portion's moisture barrier function.
2Ease of operation
If the outer electrode is provided at the side surface of the insulator, then electrical connection is achieved, but gaps between the insulator and outer electrode allow moisture entry causing electrochemical migration
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy electrode acts as an intermediary barrier that blocks moisture migration paths while preserving the outer electrode's electrical connection function. By positioning the dummy electrode between the side electrode and inner electrode, it mediates the conflict between maintaining electrical connectivity and preventing moisture-induced electrochemical migration.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the convex-shaped portion is formed at the inner electrode, then moisture entry path is extended, but electrochemical migration between side electrode and inner electrode still occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy electrode segments the electrode system into functionally distinct zones: the convex-shaped portion handles moisture path extension, while the dummy electrode handles electrochemical migration blocking. This segmentation allows each element to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The dummy electrode serves as a mediator that separates the moisture prevention function (convex-shaped portion) from the electrochemical migration prevention function. This intermediary structure allows both functions to coexist and work independently to address their respective threats.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic component that can suppress occurrence of problems such as electrochemical migration. An electronic component includes an insulator where a plurality of insulating substrates, each being provided with a side electrode and an inner electrode, are placed upon each other; and outer electrodes that are electrically connected to the side electrodes and that are provided at side surfaces of the insulator. The plurality of insulating substrates are each further provided with dummy electrodes that are disposed on a corresponding one of two sides of the side electrode with an insulating portion being interposed therebetween when viewed from a placement direction. The outer electrodes are electrically connected to the dummy electrodes at the side surfaces of the insulator.