NAND Array Solenoid Inductors for Compact On-Chip Power Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inductors are expensive to manufacture and inefficient for on-chip integration due to material constraints, and charge pumps used in NAND arrays are area inefficient and have low efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Forming a solenoid inductor using NAND memory structures with via-like conductive contact structures to achieve high inductance density and q-factor, suitable for on-chip integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional inductors are used for on-chip integration, then energy storage function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and material constraints arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inductor structure with standard NAND memory cell structures, combining energy storage functionality with existing memory array architecture. This integration eliminates the need for separate inductor manufacturing processes and reduces material constraints by utilizing available process compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductor is designed to perform multiple functions within the NAND array context, serving both as an energy storage element and as a structure compatible with standard memory fabrication processes. This multi-functionality reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining energy storage efficiency.
2Power
If charge pumps are used in NAND arrays for high voltage generation, then voltage boosting is achieved, but on-chip area efficiency deteriorates and overall efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the inductor with the NAND memory cell structure, merging power management functionality into the existing memory array. This integration significantly reduces the on-chip area required compared to separate charge pump circuits while maintaining voltage boosting capability through the inductor's energy storage properties.
3Power
If charge pumps are used for voltage boosting, then power conversion is achieved, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the charge pump mechanism with an inductor-based energy storage approach. This substitution eliminates the inefficiencies inherent in charge pump operation by using the inductor's magnetic field for energy transfer, thereby improving overall energy efficiency while maintaining voltage conversion capability.
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 solenoid inductor provides efficient energy storage and high q-factor, addressing the inefficiencies of conventional inductors and charge pumps, while reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
an on-chip solenoid inductor can be formed using similar structures used to implement NAND memory
Data Source
AI summary
An inductor is formed on-chip with a memory sub-component comprising at least one three-dimensional (3D) NAND memory component. The inductor is solenoid-like in shape with at least one turn formed of vias and connections. The inductor includes at least a first set of vias, each via in the first set of vias being conductive and having a central axis that is parallel to central axes of the other vias of the first set of vias, the first set of vias including at least a first via, a second via, and a third via. The on-chip inductor further includes a first lower connection electrically connecting the first via and the second via. The on-chip inductor further includes a first upper connection electrically connecting the second via and the third via.