Semiconductor Package Structure for Stable Redistribution Layers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current semiconductor packaging methods face challenges in efficiently forming redistribution layers over insulating encapsulants without generating molding pits, which can lead to redistribution layer collapse and reduced yield.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a buffer layer with a de-bonding layer and dielectric layer, through insulator vias, and an insulating encapsulant is used, followed by an isolation layer and redistribution layer formation, allowing for partial encapsulation of semiconductor dies and vias, and enabling electrical connections without the need for extensive grinding or planarization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional semiconductor packaging methods are used to form redistribution layers over insulating encapsulants, then electrical connections can be established, but molding pits form causing redistribution layer collapse and reduced yield

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveredistribution layer stabilityVSAvoidmolding pit formation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by forming a planarization layer over the insulating encapsulant before forming the redistribution layer. This planarization layer pre-compensates for surface irregularities and prevents molding pit formation that would otherwise cause redistribution layer collapse, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing manufacturing precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary planarization layer between the insulating encapsulant and the redistribution layer. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator that bridges the uneven surface of the encapsulant and the redistribution layer, preventing direct contact between the redistribution layer and molding pits while maintaining proper electrical connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If extensive grinding or planarization is performed to eliminate molding pits, then redistribution layer collapse is prevented, but fabrication complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveredistribution layer stabilityVSAvoidfabrication process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a disposable planarization layer that is formed over the insulating encapsulant to provide a planar surface for the redistribution layer. This layer serves its planarization function and can then be removed or left in place, eliminating the need for extensive grinding or planarization processes while maintaining redistribution layer stability, thereby reducing fabrication complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of manufacture

If partial encapsulation of semiconductor dies and vias is implemented, then electrical connections are enabled without extensive grinding, but the encapsulation structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefabrication easeVSAvoidencapsulation structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing partial encapsulation of the semiconductor dies and vias rather than complete encapsulation. The insulating encapsulant is formed to encapsulate specific regions where needed while leaving other regions exposed or accessible, enabling electrical connections without extensive grinding or planarization while managing encapsulation structure complexity through selective coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11837578B2Package structure
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US11837578B2 patent drawing
  • US11837578B2 patent drawing
  • US11837578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A package structure includes at least one semiconductor die, an insulating encapsulant, an isolation layer and a redistribution layer. The at least one first semiconductor die has a semiconductor substrate and a conductive post disposed on the semiconductor substrate. The insulating encapsulant is partially encapsulating the first semiconductor die, wherein the conductive post has a first portion surrounded by the insulating encapsulant and a second portion that protrudes out from the insulating encapsulant. The isolation layer is disposed on the insulating encapsulant and surrounding the second portion of the conductive post. The redistribution layer is disposed on the first semiconductor die and the isolation layer, wherein the redistribution layer is electrically connected to the conductive post of the first semiconductor die.