Segmented Conductive Fence EMI Shield for SiP Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current EMI shielding solutions for system-in-a-package (SiP) modules, such as electrically-conductive metal cans, are impractical due to space constraints in modern electronic devices like smartphones, as they fail to effectively shield radio frequency (RF) functional blocks from interfering with each other within the module package.

Innovation Solution

A compartment EMI shield comprising a conductive fence arranged along the compartment boundary, with substantially vertical conductive structures electrically coupled to a common ground structure, effectively attenuates EMI between RF functional blocks without occupying excessive space by using a wire cage or conductive horizontal bars that are strategically positioned to minimize contact with other components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If electrically-conductive metal cans are used for EMI shielding, then EMI shielding effectiveness is improved, but device size and space consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI shielding effectivenessVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the EMI shielding function into segmented conductive structures (fences, bars, or plates) arranged in arrays rather than using a single solid metal can. These segmented structures provide adequate EMI shielding while occupying less space and allowing better integration within the SiP module package.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs thin conductive structures (fences, bars, or plates) that act as EMI shields without requiring the bulkiness of traditional metal cans. These thin conductive elements provide the necessary shielding effectiveness while minimizing space consumption and enabling thinner form factors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Volume of moving object

If SiP module size is reduced to meet space constraints, then space utilization is improved, but EMI shielding capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule sizeVSAvoidEMI shielding capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive EMI shielding structures are segmented into multiple smaller elements (fences, bars, or plates) arranged in arrays. This segmentation allows the shielding function to be maintained in a compact form factor, as the distributed conductive elements provide effective EMI protection without requiring large volumes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from three-dimensional solid metal can shields to two-dimensional array arrangements of conductive fences, bars, or plates. This dimensional change enables effective EMI shielding within the reduced space constraints of modern SiP modules while maintaining shielding capability through the distributed nature of the conductive elements.

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

3Object-affected harmful factors

If compartment EMI shielding is implemented, then EMI interference between RF functional blocks is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI interferenceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple conductive elements (fences, bars, or plates) into integrated EMI shielding structures that can be manufactured as single pieces or pre-assembled units. This merging approach reduces manufacturing complexity compared to assembling multiple separate shielding components, while still providing effective compartmentalization for EMI protection between RF functional blocks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution provides effective EMI shielding within the module package, accommodating thinner form factors and smaller dimensions of SiP modules while maintaining efficient space utilization and cost-effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

A compartment EMI shield comprising a conductive fence arranged along the compartment boundary, with substantially vertical conductive structures electrically coupled to a common ground structure, effectively attenuates EMI between RF functional blocks

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interference shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS10468356B2Systems and methods for providing electromagnetic interference (EMI) compartment shielding for components disposed inside of system electronic packages
Publication Date: 2019.11.05 AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL SALES PTE LTD
  • US10468356B2 patent drawing
  • US10468356B2 patent drawing
  • US10468356B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system module package is disclosed. The system module package includes: a substrate; a first electrical component and a second electrical component disposed on a top surface of the substrate; and a plurality of bond wires disposed adjacent to at least a first side of the first electrical component and in between the first and second electrical components. The plurality of bond wires are configured to attenuate EMI of a frequency of interest traveling from the first electrical component toward the second electrical component, or from the second electrical component toward the first electrical component. Each of the plurality of bond wires has at least a first end that is mechanically coupled to the top surface of the substrate and has a highest point that is a height, H, from the top surface of the substrate. The plurality of bond wires is of substantially equal lengths measured from the top surface of the substrate to the highest points of the plurality of bond wires in a direction substantially normal to the top surface of the substrate.