Semiconductor Package EMI Shielding via Ground Layer Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Semiconductor packages face challenges in reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and achieving reliable processing due to the lack of effective EMI blocking structures, which affects the integration of multiple components in a single package and the miniaturization of electronic devices.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor package design incorporating a frame with through-holes, redistribution layers, and multiple metal pattern layers misaligned in the stack direction, which are electrically connected to the wiring layers and a metal layer, to form an EMI blocking structure that reduces radiation paths and burr formation during the sawing process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple components are mounted in a single package to achieve miniaturization, then device integration is improved, but electromagnetic interference between components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice integrationVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The package structure is segmented into multiple functional layers including signal layers, ground layers, and power layers. The ground layers are strategically positioned between signal layers to create electromagnetic shielding zones, effectively segmenting the electromagnetic fields of different components while maintaining compact integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Ground layers and via structures serve as intermediary elements between different signal components. These intermediary ground planes act as electromagnetic barriers that isolate adjacent signal traces and components, preventing direct electromagnetic coupling while allowing physical proximity for miniaturization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Weight of moving object

If metal layers are removed or reduced to decrease weight, then device weight is reduced, but electromagnetic wave radiation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice weightVSAvoidelectromagnetic wave radiation
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of uniformly distributing metal layers throughout the package, ground metal layers are strategically placed only in critical areas where electromagnetic shielding is most needed. This localized approach provides effective EMI protection while minimizing the total metal content and overall package weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the thickness, conductivity, and positioning parameters of metal layers to achieve the minimum effective shielding. By carefully controlling these parameters, the design maintains electromagnetic protection performance while reducing metal material usage and package weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-affected harmful factors

If complex EMI blocking structures are added to reduce electromagnetic interference, then electromagnetic shielding is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic shieldingVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The via structures serve multiple functions: they provide electrical connection between layers, act as electromagnetic shielding elements, and serve as mechanical support points. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated shielding structures, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining effective EMI protection.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The package employs a nested layer structure where ground layers are positioned between signal layers, creating concentric electromagnetic shielding zones. This nested arrangement provides comprehensive EMI protection through multiple layers of shielding without requiring additional external shielding structures, thereby simplifying manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Object-affected harmful factors

If additional EMI blocking structures are incorporated to improve electromagnetic interference blocking, then electromagnetic shielding is improved, but process reliability may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interference blockingVSAvoidprocess reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Ground layers and via structures are integrated into the package fabrication process from the beginning, rather than being added as post-processing steps. This preliminary integration ensures that EMI shielding structures are properly formed and connected during standard manufacturing processes, avoiding additional reliability risks associated with later modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10804215B2Semiconductor package
Publication Date: 2020.10.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD
  • US10804215B2 patent drawing
  • US10804215B2 patent drawing
  • US10804215B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A semiconductor package comprising: a frame having an opening and including wiring layers and one or more layer of connection vias; a semiconductor chip disposed in the opening and having an active surface having connection pads disposed thereon and an inactive surface opposing the active surface; an encapsulant covering the frame and the semiconductor chip and filling the opening; a connection structure disposed on the frame and the active surface of the semiconductor chip, and including one or more redistribution layers electrically connected to the connection pads and the wiring layers; one or more passive components disposed on the connection structure; a molding material covering each of the passive components; and a metal layer covering outer surfaces of each of the frame, the connection structure, and the molding material. The metal layer is connected to a ground pattern included in the wiring layers of the frame.