Isolated Transformer Package Cavities for Core Magnetostriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transformer-based magnetic coupling in integrated circuit packages is hindered by the presence of the transformer structure, including the transformer core, which constrains magnetostriction and affects magnetic performance.
Innovation Solution
The development of transformer-based IC packages with cavities or spaces that allow the magnetic core to undergo size changes due to magnetostriction without being constrained, thereby improving magnetic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the transformer core is enclosed in a rigid package structure, then mechanical stability is improved, but magnetostriction is constrained causing degraded magnetic performance
Solution Approach 1:
The package structure is segmented into a rigid outer package body and a separate cavity within it. The magnetic core is disposed within this cavity, which provides mechanical support while allowing magnetostriction. This segmentation separates the functions of mechanical stability (provided by the rigid package) and magnetic performance (provided by the unconstrained core in the cavity).
Solution Approach 2:
The cavity acts as an intermediary between the rigid package structure and the magnetic core. It provides a compliant environment that allows the core to expand and contract due to magnetostriction while being housed within the rigid package. The cavity mediates between the conflicting requirements of mechanical stability and magnetic performance.
2Reliability
If the transformer structure is made larger to accommodate magnetostriction, then magnetic performance is improved, but package size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cavity is formed by delaminating the encapsulant material from the substrate, creating a three-dimensional space within the otherwise planar package structure. This allows the magnetic core to have vertical clearance for magnetostriction without increasing the horizontal footprint of the package, effectively using the vertical dimension to accommodate core expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The cavity is nested within the package body, with the magnetic core disposed within the cavity. This nested structure allows the core to undergo magnetostriction within the confines of the package without requiring the entire package to be larger. The cavity is essentially a void space nested within the rigid package structure.
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 solution enhances the magnetic performance of isolated gate drivers and other isolated circuits by allowing the magnetic core to expand and contract freely, accommodating increased current and potentially reducing the size of transformer structures for equivalent performance.
Implementation Method 1
transformer-based galvanically-isolated (voltage-isolated) integrated circuit (IC) packages providing cavities or spaces for an included magnetic core to undergo size changes due to magnetostriction during operation
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include galvanically-isolated (voltage-isolated) transformer-based integrated circuit (IC) packages providing cavities or spaces, which can, in some examples, be formed by preferentially heating the included magnetic core or a material coating the magnetic core. The provision of a space around the magnetic core allows the magnetic core to underdo size changes due to magnetostriction during use without being constrained or substantially constrained, thus, providing for improved magnetic performance. The circuits, ICs and IC packages and modules may include various types of circuits. In some examples, IC packages or modules may include a galvanically-isolated gate driver or other high voltage circuit.