Transformer-Coupled Semiconductor Package for Compact Dielectric Isolation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional semiconductor devices face challenges in maintaining dielectric strength when downsized, particularly due to the reliance on separation distance between high-voltage and low-voltage circuits, which can lead to decreased bonding strength and increased susceptibility to foreign matter and resin intervention.

Innovation Solution

The semiconductor device incorporates a support substrate with insulating base members and substrate wiring that directly connects semiconductor elements to coils, eliminating the need for bonding wires and ensuring close contact between elements and the substrate, thereby enhancing adherence and reducing gaps that could compromise dielectric strength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the separation distance between high-voltage and low-voltage circuits is increased to maintain dielectric strength, then the dielectric strength is improved, but the device size increases and bonding strength decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedielectric strengthVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

An insulating substrate is introduced as an intermediary component between high-voltage and low-voltage circuits. The substrate provides dielectric strength through its material properties rather than relying on separation distance, enabling compact device design while maintaining electrical insulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the approach from geometric parameter (separation distance) to material parameter (dielectric constant, breakdown voltage) by selecting insulating substrates with appropriate electrical properties. This allows maintaining dielectric strength while reducing the physical separation distance required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If bonding wires are used to connect semiconductor elements to external terminals, then electrical connection is achieved, but bonding strength decreases and susceptibility to foreign matter increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebonding strengthVSAvoidforeign matter susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical bonding wire connection system with a direct substrate integration system. Semiconductor elements are mounted directly on the insulating substrate with external terminals formed on the substrate, eliminating the need for bonding wires and their associated reliability issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If devices are downsized to improve integration density, then productivity is improved, but dielectric strength decreases due to reduced separation distance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration densityVSAvoiddielectric strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from relying on geometric separation distance to relying on material dielectric properties. By selecting insulating substrates with high dielectric strength, the design achieves compact size while maintaining adequate electrical insulation between high-voltage and low-voltage circuits.

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 configuration effectively suppresses decreases in dielectric and bonding strength, allowing for downsizing while maintaining robustness and preventing foreign matter and resin intervention, thus improving the overall performance of the semiconductor device.

Implementation Method 1

The third semiconductor chip is a transformer chip having a transformer integrated therein, where the transformer transfers the switch control signal and so on, while insulating the direct current between the first semiconductor chip and the second semiconductor chip.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an insulating element including a first coil and a second coil magnetically coupled to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240234402A9Semiconductor device
Publication Date: 2024.07.11 ROHM CO LTD
  • US20240234402A9 patent drawing
  • US20240234402A9 patent drawing
  • US20240234402A9 patent drawing

AI summary

A semiconductor device includes: a first semiconductor element; a second semiconductor element; an insulating element including a first coil; a second coil magnetically coupled to the first coil; and a support substrate on which the first semiconductor element and the second semiconductor element are mounted. The support substrate includes an insulating base member, and a substrate wiring formed on the base member. The substrate wiring includes a first wiring member electrically interposed between the first semiconductor element and the first coil, and a second wiring member electrically interposed between the second semiconductor element and the second coil. The second coil is arranged between the first coil and the base member. The insulating element is supported by the support substrate.