Suspended Resonator Module Layout for Shock-Absorbing Oscillators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oscillators with a double-decker structure face limitations in shock absorption and miniaturization due to high stiffness of lead terminals, which restricts the performance of resonator devices and may result in increased size for enhanced performance.

Innovation Solution

The oscillator design features a resonator module supported by a lead terminal with a gap between the module and the substrate, allowing for increased lead terminal length to reduce stiffness and absorb shock, while being miniaturized by utilizing the space between the base and substrate, and includes an air-tightly sealed accommodation space to maintain temperature stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the lead terminal length is increased to reduce stiffness and improve shock absorption, then shock absorption performance is improved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshock absorption performanceVSAvoidlead terminal length
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a planar double-decker structure to a three-dimensional suspended configuration. The resonator module is positioned in space between the base and the first substrate, supported by lead terminals that extend vertically. This spatial arrangement allows the lead terminals to be longer for shock absorption while the overall device footprint remains compact, effectively resolving the contradiction between shock absorption performance and device size.

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

2Stability of the object's composition

If the double-decker structure with two supports is used, then structural stability is improved, but the device becomes larger and shock absorption is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the support function into two distinct components: the first support (lead terminal) that provides mechanical support and electrical connection, and the second support (lead terminal) that provides additional support. This segmentation allows each support to be optimized independently - the first support can be made longer for shock absorption while the second support maintains structural stability, achieving both goals without increasing overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent moves from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where the resonator module is suspended in space. This allows the lead terminals to extend vertically to provide adequate shock absorption while the horizontal footprint remains compact, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and device size.

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

3Strength

If the lead terminal stiffness is increased for better support, then structural support is improved, but shock absorption capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural support capabilityVSAvoidshock absorption capability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different local qualities to different parts of the lead terminal structure. The lead terminals are designed with specific dimensional ratios and material properties that provide adequate stiffness for supporting the resonator module while maintaining sufficient flexibility for shock absorption. The local geometry and material selection optimize both support capability and shock absorption simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the lead terminal parameters including length, thickness, and material properties to achieve the desired balance between stiffness and flexibility. By carefully selecting these parameters, the lead terminals provide sufficient structural support while maintaining shock absorption capability, resolving the contradiction between strength and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design effectively absorbs shock, achieves miniaturization, and maintains accurate temperature control, enhancing the performance and reliability of the oscillator without increasing its external size.

Implementation Method 1

it is possible to easily absorb shock or the like by increasing the length of the lead terminal to weaken stiffness of the lead terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

heats a resonator element, a container, or the like to stabilize temperature of the resonator element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Implementation Method 3

there is a risk that resonance frequency may shift due to influence of atmospheric pressure or the like

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAtmospheric pressure isolation: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS10637481B2Oscillator and electronic device
Publication Date: 2020.04.28 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US10637481B2 patent drawing
  • US10637481B2 patent drawing
  • US10637481B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An oscillator includes a case that has a base and a cap connected to the base; a first substrate accommodated in the case; a lead terminal electrically connected to the first substrate; and a resonator module electrically connected to the lead terminal and supported by the lead terminal with a gap with respect to the first substrate between the first substrate and the base.