Solder Bump Bonding via Compression Retraction Forces

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for forming electrical connections between solder bumps on a die and leads on a substrate often result in non-wet connections due to trapped non-conductive pastes, leading to weak and unreliable bonds that can fail prematurely.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a series of compression and retraction forces is applied to align and bond the solder bumps with the leads, disrupting the non-conductive coating to ensure a wet connection without traps, comprising a first compression to penetrate the coating, a retraction to break it, and subsequent compressions to establish a strong bond.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single compression force is applied to bond solder bumps to leads, then the bonding process is simple and fast, but traps of non-conductive paste remain and wet connections are not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebonding speedVSAvoidconnection quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic compression and retraction forces in multiple cycles during the bonding process. The compression phase forces solder bumps through non-conductive paste to contact leads, while the retraction phase allows molten solder to flow back and fill gaps, creating wet connections. This periodic action repeats multiple times to ensure complete removal of paste traps and formation of reliable electrical connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If compression force is applied to force solder bumps through non-conductive paste, then electrical connection is achieved, but the non-conductive paste creates traps that weaken the bond

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical conductivityVSAvoidbond strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the phase transition of solder from solid to molten state during compression. When compression force is applied, solid solder bumps are forced through non-conductive paste to contact leads. Upon retraction, the molten solder flows back and solidifies, filling gaps and creating strong wet connections. The repeated phase transitions ensure complete displacement of paste and formation of robust bonds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #36Phase transitions

3Reliability

If multiple compression and retraction forces are applied to achieve wet connections, then connection reliability is improved, but the bonding process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidbonding process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic control of compression and retraction forces with varying magnitudes and durations across multiple cycles. Each cycle adapts the force parameters to achieve optimal solder flow and trap removal. The dynamic force application ensures reliable wet connections while the process remains integrated within the bonding apparatus, managing complexity through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 approach consistently achieves a reliable, trap-free wet connection that enhances the electrical and mechanical strength of the bond between the die and the substrate, reducing the likelihood of premature failure.

Implementation Method 1

a heated condition. Solder bumps on the die are aligned with leads on the substrate and then forced together via a compressive force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Implementation Method 2

In the formation of a wet connection molten solder on the solder bump flows to or into the lead

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 3

the substrate and die are compressed together under a heated condition

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 4

forced together via a compressive force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS8381967B1Bonding a solder bump to a lead using compression and retraction forces
Publication Date: 2013.02.26 TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC
  • US8381967B1 patent drawing
  • US8381967B1 patent drawing
  • US8381967B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods of connecting solder bumps located on dies to leads located on substrates are disclosed herein. One embodiment includes applying a first compression force between the solder bump and the lead; relieving the first compression force between the solder bump and the lead; and applying a second compression force between the solder bump and the lead.