Semiconductor Module Frame for Screw Fixing Without Resin Warpage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods of directly fixing semiconductor modules to supports using screws can lead to warpage, deformation, and heat radiation performance issues, resulting in defects, malfunctions, and increased costs due to the need for screw insertion holes or cuts.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor device design featuring a support, a semiconductor module with a resin member, and a heat transfer medium, where a first frame member with a frame portion covering the edge of the resin member is fixed to the support, allowing screws to be inserted through the frame member to secure the module without direct screw insertion into the resin member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If screws are inserted directly into the resin member to fix the semiconductor module to the support, then the fixing strength is improved, but the resin member undergoes warpage and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing strengthVSAvoidresin member shape
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

A frame member is introduced as an intermediary component between the semiconductor module and the support. The frame member has a frame portion that covers the edge portion of the resin member and fastening portions with insertion holes for screws. The screws are inserted into the frame member, not directly into the resin member, thereby distributing the fixing stress and preventing warpage and deformation of the resin member while maintaining strong fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If the semiconductor module is fixed obliquely to the support, then the assembly process becomes simpler, but the heat radiation performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidheat radiation performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The frame member is designed with a structure that preliminarily establishes proper alignment and positioning. The frame portion covers the edge portion of the resin member and provides a stable base, while the fastening portions are positioned to ensure that when screws are inserted, the semiconductor module is fixed perpendicular to the support, not obliquely. This preliminary structural arrangement prevents oblique fixation and ensures proper heat radiation performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If screw insertion holes are formed in the resin member, then the fixing process is simplified, but manufacturing costs increase due to additional processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing process simplicityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing structure is segmented into separate functional components: the resin member that seals the semiconductor chip, and the frame member that provides the fastening function. The frame member has the insertion holes for screws, not the resin member. This segmentation allows the resin member to maintain its integrity without additional hole-drilling processing, while the frame member serves as the dedicated fastening component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This design reduces stress and deformation, prevents oblique fixation and heat radiation performance deterioration, and lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for screw insertion holes, while enhancing the fixing strength and maintaining high-quality performance.

Implementation Method 1

a heat transfer medium disposed between the support and the semiconductor module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS20230245948A1Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
Publication Date: 2023.08.03 FUJI ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US20230245948A1 patent drawing
  • US20230245948A1 patent drawing
  • US20230245948A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A semiconductor device includes a support, a semiconductor module, a heat transfer medium, and a first frame member. The semiconductor module includes a semiconductor chip and a resin member sealing the semiconductor chip, and is mounted on the support via the heat transfer medium. The first frame member is disposed on the semiconductor module. The first frame member has a first frame portion that covers an edge portion of an upper surface of the semiconductor module, and a first opening portion formed in the first frame portion for exposing the semiconductor module. The first frame member is fixed to the support by screws.