Switched-Capacitor Tracker Module Layout for Shorter Wiring Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing tracker modules with switched-capacitor circuits face issues due to resistance loss and parasitic capacitance in the wiring lines, which deteriorate the output characteristics of the power supply modulation circuit.
Innovation Solution
The tracker module design includes a module laminate with integrated circuits and capacitors configured to generate discrete voltages, where capacitors overlap the integrated circuits in a plan view, reducing wiring length and thereby minimizing resistance loss and parasitic capacitance in the wiring lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If capacitors and integrated circuits are placed on the same main surface of the module laminate, then the wiring line length increases, but this causes increased resistance loss and parasitic capacitance that deteriorate output characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by moving capacitors from the same plane as integrated circuits to overlapping positions in the plan view, utilizing the third dimension (vertical stacking) to reduce wiring line length while maintaining electrical connections through conductive vias through the module laminate
2Reliability
If wiring line length is reduced by overlapping capacitors and integrated circuits, then resistance loss and parasitic capacitance decrease, but this increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the module laminate structure by integrating conductive vias that serve both as mechanical support and electrical connections, and by positioning capacitors to overlap with integrated circuits, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A tracker module is provide that includes an integrated circuit on a main surface of a module laminate, and at least one capacitor included in a switched-capacitor circuit disposed on the other main surface of the module laminate. The switched-capacitor circuit generates, based on an input voltage, a plurality of discrete voltages. The integrated circuit includes at least one switch included in the switched-capacitor circuit, and at least one switch included in a supply modulator that selectively outputs, based on an envelope signal, at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages. The at least one capacitor overlaps the integrated circuit in a plan view of the module laminate.