Double-Sided RF Module Layout for Secure Motherboard Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Radio-frequency modules with increased complexity due to multiband operation often face inadequate fixation to mother substrates, particularly when components are mounted on the back surface.

Innovation Solution

A radio-frequency module design with a module substrate having opposing major surfaces, where electronic components and external connection terminals are disposed on both sides, and a resin member covers at least one surface, ensuring secure coupling through overlapping electrodes and terminals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If components are mounted on both sides of the module substrate to reduce size, then the volume of the radio-frequency module is reduced, but the fixation reliability to the mother substrate deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume of radio-frequency moduleVSAvoidfixation reliability to mother substrate
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-sided to double-sided mounting, utilizing the z-dimension (thickness direction) to mount components on both the first and second major surfaces of the module substrate. This dimensional expansion allows component placement in three-dimensional space, reducing the footprint area while maintaining compact form factor.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The module substrate is divided into two functional surfaces: the first major surface for mounting certain components and the second major surface for mounting other components. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each surface's component layout and facilitates separate bonding pad arrangements for reliable fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If components are mounted on the back surface of the module substrate, then the integration density is improved, but the fixation stability to another object deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration densityVSAvoidfixation stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the module substrate are assigned different functions: the first major surface area is optimized for component mounting with appropriate bonding pads, while the second major surface area is optimized for fixation with dedicated fixation bonding pads. This local quality differentiation ensures each surface performs its specific function effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The module substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a mechanical support structure, an electrical interconnection platform, and a fixation interface. The substrate integrates component mounting, signal transmission, and mechanical attachment functions within a single component.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If the number of components is increased for multiband operation, then the functionality is improved, but the fixation adequacy to the mother substrate deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiband operation capabilityVSAvoidfixation adequacy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional elements are nested within the module substrate structure: components are mounted on surfaces, bonding pads are embedded in the substrate, and fixation structures are integrated into the substrate architecture. This nesting allows high component density while maintaining structural integrity for reliable fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS20240178871A1Radio-frequency module and communication device
Publication Date: 2024.05.30 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US20240178871A1 patent drawing
  • US20240178871A1 patent drawing
  • US20240178871A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A radio-frequency module including a module substrate, a plurality of electronic components, a plurality of external connection terminals, a resin member, and a plurality of electrodes. The module substrate has first and second major surfaces that are opposite to each other. The plurality of electronic components are disposed at the major surface and at the major surface. The external connection terminals are disposed at the major surface and include a first external connection terminal. The resin member is disposed at the major surface. The plurality of electrodes are disposed at the major surface and coupled to the plurality of external connection terminals. The plurality of electronic components include a passive component disposed at the major surface. At least a portion of the first external connection terminal overlaps at least a portion of the passive component in plan view of the module substrate.