Seal Ring Inductor for RF IC Area Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF electronic systems face increased area and cost due to the inclusion of discrete inductors or inductors fabricated on integrated circuits, which are not efficiently addressing the need for improved inductance and electrostatic discharge protection.
Innovation Solution
A substrate-based seal ring inductor is formed with conductive layers and breaks, allowing it to operate as a coil, providing inductance and electrostatic discharge protection while reducing system area and cost by integrating the inductor around the perimeter of the electrical circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a discrete inductor is employed on a RF board, then inductance function is provided, but board area and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the inductor with the seal ring structure, merging two previously separate components (inductor and seal ring) into a single integrated structure. The seal ring's conductive layers are configured to form coil structures that provide inductance while maintaining the seal ring's protective function, thereby eliminating the need for separate discrete inductors and reducing board area.
2Reliability
If an inductor is fabricated on an integrated circuit, then inductance function is provided, but chip area and cost significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrostatic discharge protection, acts as a moisture barrier, and functions as an inductor through its conductive coil layers. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to replace both the traditional seal ring and a separate inductor component, reducing overall chip area and cost.
3Reliability
If traditional seal ring structures are used, then electrostatic discharge protection is provided, but inductance function is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the electrical parameters of the seal ring by configuring its conductive layers to form coil structures with specific geometries, turns, and spacing. This transforms the seal ring from a simple protective structure into an inductive component while preserving its original electrostatic discharge protection function, thereby achieving both ESD protection and inductance 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 seal ring inductor effectively reduces the area and cost of RF electronic systems by providing efficient inductance and electrostatic discharge protection, functioning as a choke or filter, and can be integrated into RF ICs to enhance system performance.
Implementation Method 1
The seal ring is configured to operate as an inductor and includes a first conductive layer configured to operate as a first coil of the inductor
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for providing inductance are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for providing an inductor includes forming an electrical circuit on a substrate, forming a seal ring around the perimeter of the electrical circuit, providing a break in at least one layer of the seal ring, and electrically connecting the seal ring such that the seal ring operates as an inductor.