Sensing Device Volume Reduction via Opposite Surface Mounting

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing sensing devices in smart hearing aids are too large due to the size of the sensing elements, which poses a challenge in miniaturization and increased manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

A sensing device design that includes a lead frame with opposing surfaces for chip and sensor placement, an insulated housing, and a protector, allowing for reduced volume by separating the chip and sensor on different surfaces, thereby minimizing overall size and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the sensing device uses conventional packaging with chip and sensor on the same surface, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the volume of the sensing device becomes too large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume of sensing deviceVSAvoidcomplexity of packaging structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a two-dimensional layout (chip and sensor on the same surface) to a three-dimensional arrangement (chip on first surface, sensor on second opposite surface of lead frame). This vertical stacking approach reduces the footprint area and overall volume of the sensing device while maintaining all necessary functional components.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements nesting by placing the sensor on the second surface of the lead frame, which is opposite to the first surface where the chip is mounted. The insulated housing then covers both surfaces, creating a nested configuration where components are arranged in layers within the same device envelope, effectively reducing the external dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If the sensing device is miniaturized, then the hearing aid device size is reduced, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume of sensing deviceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lead frame into distinct functional surfaces: the first surface for chip mounting and the second opposite surface for sensor mounting. This segmentation allows for optimized placement of each component on its designated surface, reducing overall device volume while maintaining manufacturability through standardized assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple components are installed in miniaturized hearing aid devices, then the functionality increases, but the available space becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality of hearing aid deviceVSAvoidavailable space in hearing aid device
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the space constraint by utilizing the third dimension (vertical depth) of the lead frame structure. By mounting the chip on the first surface and the sensor on the second opposite surface, the design effectively doubles the component capacity within the same footprint area, enabling enhanced functionality in miniaturized hearing aid devices without increasing the lateral dimensions.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11765528B2Sensing device and method for packaging the same
Publication Date: 2023.09.19 LITE ON SINGAPORE PTE LTD
  • US11765528B2 patent drawing
  • US11765528B2 patent drawing
  • US11765528B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensing device and a method for packaging the same are provided. The sensing device includes a lead frame, a chip, an insulated housing, a sensor, and a protector. The lead frame includes a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first die-bonding area and a plurality of wire bonding areas of the lead frame disposed on the first surface, and a second die-bonding area disposed on the second surface. The chip is disposed in the first die-bonding area and is electrically connected to the plurality of wire bonding areas of the lead frame. The insulated housing covers the chip and a portion of the lead frame. The sensor is disposed on the second die-bonding area of the lead frame, and the protector is disposed on the sensor.