Semiconductor Device Asymmetric Chip Orientation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current semiconductor devices with identical semiconductor chips in different orientations face challenges in implementing switching functions and preventing reverse currents due to complex terminal coupling requirements, which complicates manufacturing and increases the size of the device.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor device design featuring two identical semiconductor chips with transistors and diodes coupled in parallel, where the sources and gates are externally coupled, along with lead frames and terminals, to facilitate switching functions and reverse current prevention, while optimizing terminal placement for robustness and ease of implementation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If identical semiconductor chips are arranged in different orientations to implement switching functions, then the switching capability is improved, but the terminal coupling complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching capabilityVSAvoidterminal coupling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by arranging identical semiconductor chips in different orientations (first chip in first orientation, second chip in second orientation different from the first). This asymmetric arrangement enables the chips to serve different functions (switching and reverse current prevention) while maintaining terminal coupling simplicity through the specific orientation difference configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements multi-functionality by using identical semiconductor chips that can serve multiple purposes. The same chip structure is used for both switching operation (first chip) and reverse current prevention (second chip), eliminating the need for different chip types and simplifying manufacturing while achieving versatile functionality

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If complex terminal coupling is implemented to achieve switching function, then the switching capability is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The asymmetric orientation arrangement of identical chips simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for complex terminal coupling. The specific orientation difference between chips allows for straightforward mounting and connection processes while still achieving the desired switching capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the orientation parameter of identical semiconductor chips to achieve different functions. By varying the orientation (first orientation vs. second orientation) rather than changing the chip structure or terminal configuration, the switching capability is achieved while maintaining ease of manufacture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If identical semiconductor chips in different orientations are used, then the switching function is achieved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching functionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The asymmetric orientation arrangement allows identical chips to be positioned more efficiently on the substrate. The orientation difference enables compact layout where chips can share common structures and terminals, reducing the overall device area compared to using differently configured chips

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

4Adaptability or versatility

If complex terminal coupling is implemented, then the switching function is achieved, but the risk of terminal damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching functionVSAvoidterminal damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The asymmetric orientation configuration simplifies terminal coupling requirements, reducing the number of complex connections needed. This simpler terminal arrangement lowers the stress and complexity on terminal bonds, thereby reducing the risk of terminal damage and improving reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS20240096762A1Semiconductor device
Publication Date: 2024.03.21 KK TOSHIBA
  • US20240096762A1 patent drawing
  • US20240096762A1 patent drawing
  • US20240096762A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A first chip on a first lead frame includes a first source electrode on a surface opposite to the first lead frame. A first source terminal is located in a first direction from the first lead frame. A first gate terminal is located in a second direction from the first source terminal. A first conductor contacts the first source electrode and the first source terminal via conductors. A second chip on a second lead frame includes a second source electrode on a surface opposite to the second lead frame. A second gate terminal is located in a second direction from the first gate terminal. A second source terminal is located in the second direction from the second gate terminal. A second conductor contacts the second source electrode and the second source terminal via conductors.