Package Cover Capacitive Layout for IC Voltage Regulation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing power supply systems for integrated circuits face challenges in regulating voltage due to insufficient space on the substrate for decoupling capacitances, which are essential for preventing voltage drops caused by sudden increases in current demand.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising two covers electrically connected to the power supply and ground terminals of the integrated circuit, with a capacitive connection between them, utilizing surface-mounted capacitors and adhesive pastes to store and restore energy, thereby regulating the voltage without occupying additional substrate space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If decoupling capacitances are placed on the substrate to regulate voltage, then voltage regulation is improved, but available substrate space is reduced due to constraint zones

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage regulationVSAvoidsubstrate space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent moves the decoupling capacitances from the substrate plane to the vertical dimension by placing them between the substrate and the cover. This dimensional transition allows the capacitances to be positioned in the third dimension (height), effectively utilizing space above the substrate without occupying additional substrate area. The capacitances are mounted on insulating supports that extend vertically from the substrate, positioning them in the space between the substrate and cover.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates the decoupling capacitances within the existing package structure by nesting them between the substrate and the cover. The capacitances are positioned within the vertical space already defined by the package architecture, utilizing the volume between existing components rather than requiring additional external space. This nesting approach allows the capacitances to be accommodated within the existing package footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If multiple types of capacitors are used to cover different frequency ranges, then voltage regulation across frequencies is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage regulation across frequenciesVSAvoidcapacitor arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single type of decoupling capacitor that serves multiple frequency ranges, rather than using separate capacitors for low, medium, and high frequencies. This universal capacitor is designed with characteristics that allow it to effectively decouple across a broad frequency spectrum, eliminating the need for multiple specialized capacitors and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining comprehensive voltage regulation.

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

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

This solution effectively regulates the power supply voltage by storing and restoring energy, ensuring a constant voltage supply even during peak current demand, without the need for additional substrate space, thus enhancing the operational stability of the integrated circuit.

Implementation Method 1

the first cover (CAP1) and the second cover (CAP2) being connected together by a capacitive connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS12051681B2Voltage regulating device
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 STMICROELECTRONICS (GRENOBLE 2) SAS
  • US12051681B2 patent drawing
  • US12051681B2 patent drawing
  • US12051681B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for regulating a voltage of an electric current supplying an integrated circuit resting on a substrate. The integrated circuit comprises a ground terminal and a power supply terminal able to receive the electric current. The regulation device comprises a first cover covering the integrated circuit, a second cover covering the integrated circuit. The first cover is electrically connected to the power supply terminal of the integrated circuit. The second cover is electrically connected to the ground terminal of the integrated circuit. The first cover and the second cover are connected together by a capacitive connection.