Abstract:
Embodiments relate to sensors and more particularly to structures for and methods of forming sensors that are easier to manufacture as integrated components and provide improved deflection of a sensor membrane, lamella or other movable element. In embodiments, a sensor comprises a support structure for a lamella, membrane or other movable element. The support structure comprises a plurality of support elements that hold or carry the movable element. The support elements can comprise individual points or feet-like elements, rather than a conventional interconnected frame, that enable improved motion of the movable element, easier removal of a sacrificial layer between the movable element and substrate during manufacture and a more favorable deflection ratio, among other benefits.
Abstract:
Embodiments relate to integrated circuit sensors, and more particularly to sensors integrated in an integrated circuit structure and methods for producing the sensors. In an embodiment, a sensor device comprises a substrate; a first trench in the substrate; a first moveable element suspended in the first trench by a first plurality of support elements spaced apart from one another and arranged at a perimeter of the first moveable element; and a first layer arranged on the substrate to seal the first trench, thereby providing a first cavity containing the first moveable element and the first plurality of support elements.
Abstract:
A method for manufacturing a micromechanical system includes forming in a Front-End-of-Line (FEOL) process transistors in a transistor region; after the FEOL-process, forming a sacrificial layer; structuring the sacrificial layer to form a structured sacrificial layer; forming a functional layer at least partially covering the structured sacrificial layer; and removing the sacrificial layer to create a cavity.
Abstract:
Embodiments relate to MEMS resonator structures and methods that enable application of a maximum available on-chip voltage. In an embodiment, a MEMS resonator comprises a connection between a ground potential and the gap electrode of the resonator. Embodiments also relate to manufacturing systems and methods that are less complex and enable production of MEMS resonators of reduced dimensions.
Abstract:
Embodiments relate to structures, systems and methods for more efficiently and effectively etching sacrificial and other layers in substrates and other structures. In embodiments, a substrate in which a sacrificial layer is to be removed to, e.g., form a cavity comprises an etch dispersion system comprising a trench, channel or other structure in which etch gas or another suitable gas, fluid or substance can flow to penetrate the substrate and remove the sacrificial layer. The trench, channel or other structure can be implemented along with openings or other apertures formed in the substrate, such as proximate one or more edges of the substrate, to even more quickly disperse etch gas or some other substance within the substrate.
Abstract:
Embodiments relate to MEMS resonator structures and methods that enable application of a maximum available on-chip voltage. In an embodiment, a MEMS resonator comprises a connection between a ground potential and the gap electrode of the resonator. Embodiments also relate to manufacturing systems and methods that are less complex and enable production of MEMS resonators of reduced dimensions.
Abstract:
A microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device is provided and includes a bulk semiconductor substrate, a cavity formed in the bulk semiconductor substrate, a movably suspended mass, a cap structure and a capacitive structure is shown. The movably suspended mass is defined in the bulk semiconductor substrate by one or more trenches extending from a main surface area of the bulk semiconductor substrate to the cavity. The cap is structure arranged on the main surface area of the bulk semiconductor substrate. The capacitive structure comprises a first electrode structure arranged on the movably suspended mass and a second electrode structure arranged at the cap structure such that the first electrode structure and the second electrode structure are spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the main surface area of the bulk semiconductor substrate.
Abstract:
According to an embodiment, a method of forming a MEMS transducer includes forming a transducer frame in a layer of monocrystalline silicon, where forming the transducer frame includes forming a support portion adjacent a cavity and forming a first set of comb-fingers extending from the support portion. The method of forming a MEMS transducer further includes forming a spring support from an anchor to the support portion and forming a second set of comb-fingers in the layer of monocrystalline silicon. The second set of comb-fingers is interdigitated with the first set of comb-fingers.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to an integrated semiconductor device, comprising a semiconductor substrate; a cavity formed into the semiconductor substrate; a sensor portion of the semiconductor substrate deflectably suspended in the cavity at one side of the cavity via a suspension portion of the semiconductor substrate interconnecting the semiconductor substrate and the sensor portion thereof, wherein an extension of the suspension portion along the side of the cavity is smaller than an extension of said side of the cavity.
Abstract:
According to an embodiment, a method of forming a MEMS transducer includes forming a transducer frame in a layer of monocrystalline silicon, where forming the transducer frame includes forming a support portion adjacent a cavity and forming a first set of comb-fingers extending from the support portion. The method of forming a MEMS transducer further includes forming a spring support from an anchor to the support portion and forming a second set of comb-fingers in the layer of monocrystalline silicon. The second set of comb-fingers is interdigitated with the first set of comb-fingers.