Stretchable Electronic Device Double-Level Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretchable electronic devices face reliability issues due to the risk of overstretching and breaking of electrically conductive channels, which limits their lifespan and requires the use of zero-ohm cross-over resistors in single level metallization.
Innovation Solution
A stretchable electronic device with a double level interconnection system, where the electrically conductive channels are supported by a flexible insulating layer with a predetermined geometry that restricts stretchability, eliminating the need for zero-ohm cross-over resistors and enhancing the device's durability by using a second conductive layer made of a less brittle material to maintain connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single level metallization is used with stretchable interconnections, then the device allows flexibility and space savings, but the electrically conductive channels are prone to overstretching and breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-level metallization to a double-level metallization system. The first conductive layer provides stretchable interconnections, while the second conductive layer is positioned at a different vertical level to provide mechanical support and prevent overstretching. This dimensional addition resolves the contradiction by maintaining flexibility in the horizontal plane while adding structural reinforcement in the vertical dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining two conductive layers with different material properties. The first layer uses materials optimized for stretchability, while the second layer uses less brittle materials to provide structural support. This composite approach allows the system to simultaneously achieve flexibility and reliability that neither layer could provide alone.
2Reliability
If zero-ohm cross-over resistors are used in single level metallization, then connectivity is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for zero-ohm cross-over resistors by implementing a second conductive layer at a different vertical level. This layer provides direct vertical interconnections between conductive tracks that would otherwise require horizontal cross-overs. By moving the connection path to another dimension (vertical vs. horizontal), the solution maintains connectivity while removing additional components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electrically conductive channel geometry matches the flexible supporting layer geometry, then the supporting layer is stretchable, but the conductive channel is prone to breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different geometric patterns to different layers locally. The first conductive layer uses a meander pattern optimized for stretchability, while the second conductive layer uses a different geometric pattern that provides structural support. By allowing each layer to have locally optimized geometry suited to its specific function, the system achieves both stretchability and durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure where two conductive layers with different geometric patterns and material properties work together. The first layer's geometry optimizes for stretchability while the second layer's geometry optimizes for structural support, creating a system that achieves both stretchability and durability through the synergistic combination of different geometric designs.
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
The solution increases the reliability and lifespan of the electronic device by controlling stretchability, reducing the risk of cracks, and allowing for more complex and compact circuit designs without the need for additional components, while also being cost-effective and time-efficient in fabrication.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrically conductive channel having a predetermined first geometry by which the channel is stretchable up to a given elastic limit and a first flexible supporting layer for supporting the first electrically conductive channel and having a predetermined second geometry by which the first supporting layer is stretchable, the predetermined second geometry of the first flexible supporting layer having a predetermined deviation from the predetermined first geometry of the first electrically conductive channel chosen for restricting stretchability of the first electrically conductive channel below its elastic limit
Data Source
AI summary
A stretchable electronic device is disclosed. In one aspect, the device has a stretchable interconnection electrically connecting two electronic components. The stretchable interconnection includes an electrically conductive channel having a predetermined first geometry by which the channel is stretchable up to a given elastic limit and a first flexible supporting layer provided for supporting the electrically conductive channel and having a predetermined second geometry by which the first supporting layer is stretchable. The predetermined second geometry has a predetermined deviation from the predetermined first geometry chosen for restricting stretchability of the electrically conductive channel below its elastic limit.