Package Structure Integrating Passive Devices on Redistribution Layer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current semiconductor packaging technologies face challenges in achieving compact and reliable integration of passive components within 3D packaging structures, leading to increased footprint and potential electrical performance issues.

Innovation Solution

The method involves forming a redistribution layer with connection structures on a wafer, integrating passive devices (IPDs) on this layer, and encapsulating solder balls with a molding compound, which allows for compact package structures with improved electrical reliability by reducing loop inductance and protecting components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If passive components are integrated on the redistribution layer in 3D packaging, then electrical performance is improved by reducing loop inductance, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical performanceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines passive components (IPDs) with the redistribution layer into a single integrated structure. The IPDs are formed directly on the redistribution layer, merging two previously separate elements into one unified component that achieves both electrical performance improvement and simplified device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from planar packaging to 3D packaging by stacking the IPDs vertically on the redistribution layer. This dimensional change allows passive components to be integrated in the vertical dimension rather than consuming additional horizontal space, thereby improving electrical performance without significantly increasing device footprint.

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

2Reliability

If solder balls are encapsulated with molding compound, then connection reliability is improved by protecting components, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmolding precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The molding compound is applied as a protective encapsulation layer around the solder balls and IPDs before final assembly completion. This pre-protective measure shields the sensitive electrical connections from environmental damage and mechanical stress during subsequent handling and assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses molding compound as a composite protective material that combines mechanical strength, electrical insulation, and environmental sealing properties. This composite material provides comprehensive protection for the solder balls and IPDs while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard encapsulation processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS11244919B2Package structure and method of fabricating the same
Publication Date: 2022.02.08 TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US11244919B2 patent drawing
  • US11244919B2 patent drawing
  • US11244919B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A package structure is provided comprising a die, a redistribution layer, at least one integrated passive device (IPD), a plurality of solder balls and a molding compound. The die comprises a substrate and a plurality of conductive pads. The redistribution layer is disposed on the die, wherein the redistribution layer comprises first connection structures and second connection structures. The IPD is disposed on the redistribution layer, wherein the IPD is connected to the first connection structures of the redistribution layer. The plurality of solder balls is disposed on the redistribution layer, wherein the solder balls are disposed and connected to the second connection structures of the redistribution layer. The molding compound is disposed on the redistribution layer, and partially encapsulating the IPD and the plurality of solder balls, wherein top portions of the solder balls and a top surface of the IPD are exposed from the molding compound.