Semiconductor Paddle Identification via Raised Features

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional semiconductor packaging frames lack individual identification, making it difficult to track manufacturing variances and defects, and the reduction in paddle size for identification areas compromises die mounting and equipment compatibility.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating identification information directly into the paddle area of semiconductor packaging frames, allowing unique tracking and strengthening the bond between the die paddle and molding compound through increased surface area, without reducing the paddle size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If identification areas are added to the semiconductor frame, then tracking capability is improved, but the paddle area size is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking informationVSAvoidpaddle area
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from 2D surface markings to 3D raised features on the paddle area. The identification information is formed as raised structures that extend vertically from the paddle surface, allowing encoding of tracking data without consuming additional lateral space. This vertical dimension enables full utilization of the paddle area for both identification and die mounting functions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating localized raised features only in specific regions of the paddle area where identification information is needed. The paddle surface maintains its full original dimensions and structural integrity, while localized raised structures encode identification data. This allows the paddle to simultaneously serve its primary function for die mounting and its secondary function for identification tracking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Loss of information

If the paddle area is reduced to accommodate identification information, then identification capability is improved, but die mounting capability is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification informationVSAvoiddie mounting
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By encoding identification information in the vertical dimension through raised features, the patent preserves the complete lateral footprint of the paddle area. The full paddle surface remains available for die mounting operations, while the vertical relief structures provide identification capability without interfering with the die attachment process or reducing the functional mounting area.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The raised identification features are localized to specific areas of the paddle, leaving the majority of the paddle surface flat and suitable for die mounting. The local raised structures do not compromise the overall paddle integrity or the ease of die attachment, while providing sufficient area for encoding identification information through various patterns such as dot matrices or bar codes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Measurement precision

If identification markings are added to the frame, then tracking precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the identification marking process with the existing paddle formation process. The raised features are created using the same molding or forming operations that create the paddle structure itself, eliminating the need for separate identification marking steps. This integration maintains high tracking precision through accurate raised feature formation while avoiding additional manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The molding process that forms the paddle automatically creates the raised identification features as an inherent part of the paddle structure. The identification information is embedded during the primary forming operation, allowing the system to self-generate identification markings without requiring external marking equipment or additional processing steps, thereby maintaining manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8999752B1Semiconductor packaging identifier
Publication Date: 2015.04.07 MONTEREY RESEARCH LLC
  • US8999752B1 patent drawing
  • US8999752B1 patent drawing
  • US8999752B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a semiconductor packaging frame allowing identification information to be stored in the paddle area of the individual frame. Forming identification information on the paddle allows unique tracking of the semiconductor frame package during and after manufacturing and for tracking down variances, defects, and other problems during the semiconductor packaging process. Further, the shapes formed from the identification information provide increased surface area for bonding of the molding compound and thus strengthen the bond between the die paddle and molding compound thereby improving the strength of the semiconductor package.