CAPACITOR DEVICE AND SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE

A capacitor device includes a capacitor element, an insulating cover covering the capacitor element, a first external electrode exposed from the insulating cover, a second external electrode exposed from the insulating cover, a first conductive member electrically conducting to the first external electrode and the capacitor element, and a second conductive member electrically conducting to the second external electrode and the capacitor element. The capacitor element includes a multilayer body comprising a plurality of dielectric layers and a plurality of conductor layers alternately laminated in a first direction. The insulating cover covers the entirety of the capacitor element except a connection portion where the capacitor element and the first conductive member are connected and a connection portion where the capacitor element and the second conductive member are connected. The first external electrode and the second external electrode are formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a capacitor device and a semiconductor device.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, capacitors are used in the electronic circuits of power conversion devices (inverters, etc.) built in vehicles, industrial machinery, etc., in order to smooth voltage, for example. A chip-type multilayer capacitor is disclosed in JP-A-2018-104210. The multilayer capacitor described in JP-A-2018-104210 includes a multilayer body and a first and a second external electrodes. The multilayer body has a plurality of dielectric ceramic layers and a plurality of first and second internal electrodes. The dielectric ceramic layers and the first and the second internal electrodes are alternately laminated. In the lamination direction of the dielectric ceramic layers and the first and the second internal electrodes, each of the first and the second internal electrodes is located between dielectric ceramic layers. The first external electrode and the second external electrode are electrically connected to the first internal electrodes and the second internal electrodes, respectively. The first external electrode and the second external electrode are formed at opposite ends of the multilayer body in a orthogonal direction that is orthogonal to the lamination direction.

As described in, for example, WO-A1-2019/216161, a chip-type multilayer capacitor may be incorporated in a semiconductor module. In WO-A1-2019/216161, the chip capacitor is mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the orthogonal direction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of a capacitor device and a semiconductor device according to the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference signs, and the descriptions thereof are omitted. In the present disclosure, the terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose ordinal requirements on the items to which these terms refer.

In the description of the present disclosure, the expression “An object A is formed in an object B”, and “An object A is formed on an object B” imply the situation where, unless otherwise specifically noted, “the object A is formed directly in or on the object B”, and “the object A is formed in or on the object B, with something else interposed between the object A and the object B”. Likewise, the expression “An object A is disposed in an object B”, and “An object A is disposed on an object B” imply the situation where, unless otherwise specifically noted, “the object A is disposed directly in or on the object B”, and “the object A is disposed in or on the object B, with something else interposed between the object A and the object B”. Further, the expression “An object A is located on an object B” implies the situation where, unless otherwise specifically noted, “the object A is located on the object B, in contact with the object B”, and “the object A is located on the object B, with something else interposed between the object A and the object B”. Still further, the expression “An object A overlaps with an object B as viewed in a certain direction” implies the situation where, unless otherwise specifically noted, “the object A overlaps with the entirety of the object B”, and “the object A overlaps with a part of the object B”.

FIGS.1to7show a capacitor device according to a first embodiment. As shown in these figures, the capacitor device C1of the first embodiment includes a capacitor element8, an insulating cover91, a first external electrode921, a second external electrode922, a first conductive member931, and a second conductive member932.

For the convenience of description, the thickness direction of the capacitor device C1is defined as the “first direction z”. Herein, the terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “upper surface”, and “lower surface” are used to indicate the relative positional relationship of parts, portions or the like in the first direction z and do not necessarily define the relationship with respect to the direction of gravity. Also, “plan view” refers to the view seen in the first direction z. A direction orthogonal to the first direction z is defined as the “second direction x”, and the direction orthogonal to the first direction z and the second direction x is defined as the “third direction y”. As an example, the second direction x is the horizontal direction in plan view (seeFIG.2) of the capacitor device C1, and the third direction y is the vertical direction in plan view (seeFIG.2) of the capacitor device C1.

As shown inFIG.1, the capacitor device C1has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, for example. In the example shown inFIG.2, the capacitor device C1has a rectangular shape elongated in the third direction y in plan view, but unlike this example, the capacitor device may have a rectangular shape elongated in the second direction x. Alternatively, the capacitor device C1may have a square shape in plan view.

The capacitor element8is, for example, a chip-type multilayer capacitor, such as a film capacitor or a ceramic capacitor. The capacitor element8may be other capacitors, not a multilayer capacitor. The capacitor element8may have a self-healing function. The capacitor element8includes a multilayer body81, a first aggregate electrode84, and a second aggregate electrode85.

The multilayer body81is the core component for the function of the capacitor element8. As shown inFIGS.4to7, the multilayer body81has an obverse surface811, a reverse surface812, a first side surface813, a second side surface814, a third side surface815, and a fourth side surface816. As shown inFIGS.4to7, the multilayer body81includes a plurality of dielectric layers82and a plurality of conductor layers83.

As shown inFIG.4, the obverse surface811and the reverse surface812are spaced apart in the first direction z. The obverse surface811faces the z2 side in the first direction, and the reverse surface812faces the z1 side in the first direction. As shown inFIGS.5to7, the first side surface813and the second side surface814are spaced apart in the second direction x. The first side surface813faces the x1 side in the second direction, and the second side surface814faces the x2 side in the second direction. As shown inFIGS.5to7, the third side surface813and the fourth side surface816are spaced apart in the third direction y. The third side surface815faces the y1 side in the third direction, and the fourth side surface816faces the y2 side in the third direction. The obverse surface811, the reverse surface812, the first side surface813, the second side surface814, the third side surface815, and the fourth side surface816are flat, for example.

As shown inFIG.4, the dielectric layers82and the conductor layers83are alternately laminated in the first direction z in the multilayer body81. In the present disclosure, the lamination direction of the multilayer body81corresponds to the first direction z. The number of lamination (the number of dielectric layers82and the number of conductor layers83) is not limited to the example shown inFIG.4and can be changed as appropriate depending on the specifications (e.g., capacitance) of the capacitor device C1.

Each of the dielectric layers82is sandwiched between adjacent conductor layers83in the first direction z. As shown inFIG.4, the dielectric layer82located outermost on each side in the first direction z forms the surface layer of the multilayer body81on each side in first direction z. As shown inFIG.6, the dielectric layers82are in contact with the first side surface813, the second side surface814, the third side surface815, and the fourth side surface816in plan view. In the example where the capacitor element8is a film capacitor, each of the dielectric layers82is made of an insulating resin material, for example. In the example where the capacitor element8is a ceramic capacitor, each of the dielectric layers82is made of ceramic, for example. The constituent material of the dielectric layers82is not limited to the above examples and may be other insulating materials.

The conductor layers83are made of copper or a copper alloy, for example. The constituent material of the conductor layers83is not limited to copper or a copper alloy. As shown inFIG.4, each of the conductor layers83is disposed between dielectric layers82.

As shown inFIGS.4,5and7, the plurality of conductor layers83include a plurality of first electrode layers831and a plurality of second electrode layers832. The first electrode layers831and the second electrode layers832are alternately disposed in the first direction z. Each first electrode layer831and a relevant second electrode layer832sandwich a dielectric layer82in the first direction z. When the capacitor device C1is energized, the first electrode layers831and the second electrode layers832have mutually opposite polarities.

As shown inFIGS.4and5, the first electrode layers831are connected to the first aggregate electrode84. The first electrode layers831are at the same potential via the first aggregate electrode84. As shown inFIG.5, the first electrode layers831are in contact with the first side surface813and spaced apart from the second side surface814, the third side surface815and the fourth side surface816in plan view. The first electrode layers831are spaced apart from the second aggregate electrode85in the second direction x. As shown inFIGS.4and5, an insulator829is disposed around each first electrode layer831(excluding the edge in contact with the first aggregate electrode84) in plan view. In one example, the insulator829is made of the same material as the dielectric layers82.

As shown inFIGS.4and7, the second electrode layers832are connected to the second aggregate electrode85. The second electrode832are at the same potential via the second aggregate electrode85. As shown inFIG.7, the second electrode layers832are in contact with the second side surface814and spaced apart from the first side surface813, the third side surface815and the fourth side surface816in plan view. The second electrode layers832are spaced apart from the first aggregate electrode84in the second direction x. As shown inFIGS.4and7, an insulator829is disposed around each second electrode layer832(excluding the edge in contact with the second aggregate electrode85) in plan view.

The first aggregate electrode84electrically conducts to the first electrode layers831and electrically connects the first electrode layers831to each other. The first aggregate electrode84is formed to cover the end on the x1 side in the second direction of the multilayer body81. As shown inFIG.4, the first aggregate electrode84includes a first side electrode portion841, a first obverse electrode portion842, and a first reverse electrode portion843.

As shown inFIG.4, the first side electrode portion841covers the first side surface813. In the present embodiment, the first side electrode portion841covers the entirety of the first side surface813. The first side electrode portion841is in contact with the first electrode layers831.

As shown inFIG.4, the first obverse electrode portion842covers a part of the obverse surface811. The first obverse electrode portion842is connected to the first side electrode portion841and formed on an end of the obverse surface811that is connected to the first side surface813.

As shown inFIG.4, the first reverse electrode portion843covers a part of the reverse surface812. The first reverse electrode portion843is connected to the first side electrode portion841and formed on an end of the reverse surface812that is connected to the first side surface813.

As shown inFIGS.5to7, the first aggregate electrode84includes a portion covering a part of the third side surface815and a portion covering a part of the fourth side surface816in addition to the first side electrode portion841, the first obverse electrode portion842and the first reverse electrode portion843.

The second aggregate electrode85electrically conducts to the second electrode layers832and electrically connects the second electrode layers832to each other. The second aggregate electrode85is formed to cover the end on the x2 side in the second direction of the multilayer body81. As shown inFIG.4, the second aggregate electrode85includes a second side electrode portion851, a second obverse electrode portion852, and a second reverse electrode portion853.

As shown inFIG.4, the second side electrode portion851covers the second side surface814. In the present embodiment, the second side electrode portion851covers the entirety of the second side surface814. The second side electrode portion851is in contact with the second electrode layers832.

As shown inFIG.4, the second obverse electrode portion852covers a portion of the obverse surface811. The second obverse electrode portion852is connected to the second side electrode portion851and formed on an end of the obverse surface811that is connected to the second side surface814.

As shown inFIG.4, the second reverse electrode portion853covers a part of the reverse surface812. The second reverse electrode portion853is connected to the second side electrode portion851and formed on an end of the reverse surface812that is connected to the second side surface814.

As shown inFIGS.5to7, the second aggregate electrode85includes a portion covering a part of the third side surface815and a portion covering a part of the fourth side surface816in addition to the second side electrode portion851, the second obverse electrode portion852and the second reverse electrode portion853.

As shown inFIGS.2to4, the insulating cover91covers the entirety of the capacitor element8except a connection portion where the capacitor element8and the first conductive member931are connected and a connection portion where the capacitor element8and the second conductive member932are connected. In the capacitor device C1, the constituent material of the insulating cover91differs from the constituent material of the dielectric layers82, and is, for example, a polymer compound. The polymer compound may be, for example, a prepreg made of epoxy resin, glass fiber, phenolic resin, rubber, etc. Unlike this arrangement, the constituent material of the insulating cover91may be the same as that of the dielectric layers82. However, using different materials for the insulating cover91and the dielectric layers82allows selecting the material for the insulating cover91and the material for the dielectric layers82depending on respective purposes. For example, a material with high dielectric strength or thermal conductivity may be used for the insulating cover91, while a material with high dielectric constant may be used for the dielectric layers82.

As shown inFIGS.2to7, the insulating cover91includes an obverse covering portion911, a reverse covering portion912, a first side covering portion913, a second side covering portion914, a third side covering portion915, and a fourth side covering portion916. As shown inFIG.4, the obverse covering portion911covers the obverse surface811. The obverse covering portion911also covers a part of the first conductive member931. As shown inFIG.4, the reverse covering portion912covers the reverse surface812. The reverse covering portion912also covers a part of the second conductive member932. The first side covering portion913covers the first side surface813. The second side covering portion914covers the second side surface814. The third side covering portion915covers the third side surface815.

The fourth side covering portion916covers the fourth side surface816.

As shown inFIG.4, the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are disposed with the capacitor element8therebetween in the first direction z. The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are the terminals of the capacitor device C1. As understood fromFIG.4, a part of the first external electrode921and a part of the second external electrode922overlap with each other in plan view in the present embodiment. The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are made of, for example, copper or a copper alloy. The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922may not be made of copper or a copper alloy, and may be made of gold, silver, Ni (nickel), aluminum, tin, alloys of these, or conductive resin.

The first external electrode921covers at least a part of the obverse covering portion911. In the example shown inFIGS.2and4, a part of the obverse covering portion911is exposed from the first external electrode921. In the example shown inFIGS.2and4, the first external electrode921is formed on the end of the obverse covering portion911that is connected to the first side covering portion913, and the end of the obverse covering portion911that is connected to the second side covering portion914is exposed. In the example shown inFIGS.2and4, the area of the obverse covering portion911that is covered with the first external electrode921is larger than the area that is exposed from the first external electrode921, but the opposite may be the case. Unlike this example, the first external electrode921may cover the entire upper surface of the obverse covering portion911. A larger area in plan view of the first external electrode921leads to an increased bonding area to a mounting target and improved heat dissipation to the mounting target. In the example shown inFIG.2, the first external electrode921is rectangular in plan view.

The second external electrode922covers at least a part of the reverse covering portion912. In the example shown inFIGS.3and4, a part of the reverse covering portion912is exposed from the second external electrode922. In the example shown inFIGS.3and4, the second external electrode922is formed on the end of the reverse covering portion912that is connected to the second side covering portion914, and the end of the reverse covering portion912that is connected to the first side covering portion913is exposed. In the example shown inFIGS.3and4, the area of the reverse covering portion912that is covered with the second external electrode922is larger than the area that is exposed from the second external electrode922, but the opposite may be the case. Unlike this example, the second external electrode922may cover the entire lower surface of the reverse covering portion912. A larger area in plan view of the second external electrode922leads to an increased bonding area to a mounting target and improved heat dissipation to the mounting target. In the example shown inFIG.3, the second external electrode922is rectangular in plan view.

The first conductive member931electrically conducts the first external electrode921and the capacitor element8. As shown inFIG.4, the first conductive member931penetrates the insulating cover91in the first direction z. The first conductive member931is in contact with the first aggregate electrode84while being in contact with the first external electrode921. In the example shown inFIG.4, the first conductive member931overlaps with the first obverse electrode portion842in plan view and is in contact with the first obverse electrode portion842of the first aggregate electrode84. The first external electrode921and the first aggregate electrode84electrically conduct to each other via the first conductive member931. In the example shown inFIG.2, the first conductive member931has the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y in plan view. Unlike this example, a plurality of columnar (e.g., cylindrical) first conductive members931may be disposed along the third direction y.

The second conductive member932electrically conducts the second external electrode922and the capacitor element8. As shown inFIG.4, the second conductive member932penetrates the insulating cover91in the first direction z. The second conductive member932is in contact with the second aggregate electrode85while being in contact with the second external electrode922. In the example shown inFIG.4, the second conductive member932overlaps with the second reverse electrode portion853in plan view and is in contact with the second reverse electrode portion853of the second aggregate electrode85. The second external electrode922and the second aggregate electrode85electrically conduct to each other via the second conductive member932. In the example shown inFIG.3, the second conductive member932has the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y in plan view. Unlike this example, a plurality of columnar (e.g., cylindrical) second conductive members932may be disposed along the third direction y.

The effects of the capacitor device C1are as follows.

The capacitor device C1includes the insulating cover91covering the capacitor element8, and the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922each exposed from the insulating cover91. The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Such a configuration makes it possible to mount the capacitor device C1to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C1includes the capacitor element8. The capacitor element8includes the multilayer body81in which the dielectric layers82and the conductor layers83are alternately laminated in the first direction z. Such a capacitor element8is configured in the same manner as existing multilayer ceramic capacitors or existing multilayer film capacitors, and some of existing multilayer ceramic capacitors or existing multilayer film capacitors have high reliability against failure or the like or have high performance (e.g., high capacitance) as a result of various research and development. By including a capacitor element8having high reliability and high performance, the capacitor device C1can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81while maintaining reliability and performance.

Other embodiments of the capacitor device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.8to25.

FIGS.8and9show a capacitor device according to a second embodiment. As shown inFIGS.8and9, the capacitor device C2according to the second embodiment differs from the capacitor device C1in the connection position of the first conductive member931to the first aggregate electrode84and the connection position of the second conductive member932to the second aggregate electrode85.

As shown inFIGS.8and9, in the capacitor device C2, the first conductive member931is not in contact with the first obverse electrode portion842but in contact with the first side electrode portion841of the first aggregate electrode84. Also, the second conductive member932is not in contact with the second reverse electrode portion853but in contact with the second side electrode portion851of the second aggregate electrode85.

As with the capacitor device C1, the capacitor device C2includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor device C1, the capacitor device C2can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

FIG.10show a capacitor device according to a third embodiment. As shown inFIG.10, the capacitor device C3of the third embodiment differs from the capacitor device C1in that the capacitor device C3includes a plurality of capacitor elements8. In the example shown inFIG.10, the capacitor device C3includes three capacitor elements8. However, the number of capacitor elements8is not limited to the illustrated example and may be changed as appropriate depending on the specifications (e.g., capacitance) of the capacitor device C3.

In the capacitor device C3, the plurality of capacitor elements8are stacked in the first direction z, as shown inFIG.10. In any two capacitor elements8adjacent in the first direction z, the first obverse electrode portion842of the capacitor element8located on the z1 side in the first direction and the first reverse electrode portion843of the capacitor element8located on the z2 side in the first direction are bonded via, for example, a conductive bonding material, not shown. Also, the second obverse electrode portion852of the capacitor element8located on the z1 side in the first direction and the second reverse electrode portion853of the capacitor element8located on the z2 side in the first direction are bonded via, for example, a conductive bonding material, not shown. With such a connection relationship, the plurality of capacitor elements8are electrically connected in parallel in the capacitor device C3.

In the capacitor device C3, the first conductive member931is in contact with the first aggregate electrode84of the outermost capacitor element8on the z2 side in the first direction and the first external electrode921, as shown inFIG.10. The second conductive member932is in contact with the second aggregate electrode85of the outermost capacitor element8on the z1 side in the first direction and the second external electrode922.

As with the capacitor devices C1and C2, the capacitor device C3includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1and C2, the capacitor device C3can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C3includes a plurality of capacitor elements8, and the plurality of capacitor elements8are electrically connected in parallel. With such a configuration, the capacitance of the capacitor device C3is the sum of the capacitances of the plurality of capacitor elements8. Therefore, the capacitor device C3can increase the capacitance as compared with the capacitor devices C1and C2.

FIG.11show a capacitor device according to a fourth embodiment. As shown inFIG.11, the capacitor device C4of the fourth embodiment includes a plurality of capacitor elements8as with the capacitor device C3, but differs from the capacitor device C3in the arrangement of the capacitor elements8. In the example shown inFIG.11, the capacitor device C4includes three capacitor elements8. However, the number of capacitor elements8is not limited to the illustrated example.

As shown inFIG.11, the plurality of capacitor elements8are disposed along the third direction y in the capacitor device C4. In any two capacitor elements8adjacent in the third direction y, the respective first aggregate electrodes84are connected to each other, and the respective second aggregate electrodes85are connected to each other. More specifically, in any two capacitor elements8adjacent in the third direction y, the portion of the first aggregate electrode84that covers the fourth side surface816of the capacitor element8located on the y1 side in the third direction is connected to the portion of the first aggregate electrode84that covers the third side surface815of the capacitor element8located on the y2 side in the third direction via, for example, a conductive bonding material, not shown. Also, the portion of the second aggregate electrode85that covers the fourth side surface816of the capacitor element8located on the y1 side in the third direction is connected to the portion of the second aggregate electrode85that covers the third side surface815of the capacitor element8located on the y2 side in the third direction via, for example, a conductive bonding material, not shown. With such a connection relationship, the plurality of capacitor elements8are electrically connected in parallel in the capacitor device C4, as with the capacitor device C3.

As with the capacitor devices C1to C3, the capacitor device C4includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C3, the capacitor device C4can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

As with the capacitor device C3, the capacitor device C4includes a plurality of capacitor elements8, and the plurality of capacitor elements8are electrically connected in parallel. Therefore, as with the capacitor device C3, the capacitor device C4can increase the capacitance as compared with the capacitor devices C1and C2.

Comparing the capacitor devices C3and C4, the capacitor device C3has a plurality of capacitor elements8arranged along the first direction z, whereas the capacitor device C4has a plurality of capacitor elements8arranged along a direction orthogonal to the first direction z (the third direction y). It is preferable to use the capacitor device C3when the dimension in plan view is limited in the mounting target and use the capacitor device C4when the dimension in the first direction z is limited in the mounting target.

FIGS.12and13show a capacitor device according to a fifth embodiment. As shown inFIGS.12and13, the capacitor device C5of the fifth embodiment includes a plurality of capacitor elements8as with the capacitor devices C3and C4, but differs from the capacitor devices C3and C4in the connection relationship of the capacitor elements8. In the example shown inFIG.12, the capacitor device C5include two capacitor elements8. However, the number of capacitor elements8is not limited to the illustrated example.

As shown inFIG.12, the plurality of capacitor elements8are disposed along the second direction x in the capacitor device C5. In two capacitor elements8adjacent in the second direction x, the second side electrode portion851of the capacitor element8located on the x1 side in the second direction is bonded to the first side electrode portion841of the capacitor element8located on the x2 side in the second direction via, for example, a conductive bonding material, not shown. With such a connection relationship, the capacitor elements8are electrically connected in series in the capacitor device C5.

In the capacitor device C5, the first conductive member931is in contact with the first aggregate electrode84of the outermost capacitor element8on the x1 side in the second direction and the first external electrode921. The second conductive member932is in contact with the second aggregate electrode85of the outermost capacitor element8on the x2 side in the second direction and the second external electrode922.

As with the capacitor devices C1to C4, the capacitor device C5includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C4, the capacitor device C5can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C5includes a plurality of capacitor elements8as with the capacitor devices C3and C4, but the plurality of capacitor elements8are electrically connected in series, unlike the capacitor devices C3and C4. With such a configuration, the voltage applied to each capacitor element8is smaller than the voltage applied between the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922.

Thus, the capacitor device C5can suppress the voltage applied to each capacitor element8.

FIGS.14to16show a capacitor device according to a sixth embodiment. As shown inFIGS.14to16, the capacitor device C6of the sixth embodiment differs from the capacitor device C5in that it further includes a first wiring electrode941, a second wiring electrode942, a third conductive member933, and a fourth conductive member934.

As shown inFIGS.14and16, the first wiring electrode941covers a part of the obverse covering portion911. The first wiring electrode941is spaced apart from the first external electrode921. The constituent material of the first wiring electrode941is the same as that of the first external electrode921, for example.

As shown inFIG.16, the third conductive member933penetrates the obverse covering portion911in the first direction z. The third conductive member933is in contact with the first wiring electrode941and the joint portion of adjacent capacitor elements8. The joint portion of adjacent capacitor elements8means the portion where the second aggregate electrode85of the capacitor element8located on the x1 side in the second direction and the first aggregate electrode84of the capacitor element8on the x2 side in the second direction are bonded, and hereinafter referred to as the “series connection portion”. The constituent material of the third conductive member933is the same as that of the first conductive member931, for example.

As shown inFIGS.15and16, the second wiring electrode942covers a part of the reverse covering portion912. The second wiring electrode942is spaced apart from the second external electrode922. The constituent material of the second wiring electrode942is the same as that of the second external electrode922, for example.

As shown inFIG.16, the fourth conductive member934penetrates the reverse covering portion912in the first direction z. The fourth conductive member934is in contact with the second wiring electrode942and the series connection portion. The constituent material of the fourth conductive member934is the same as that of the second conductive member932, for example.

As with the capacitor devices C1to C5, the capacitor device C6includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C5, the capacitor device C6can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C6includes the third conductive member933and the fourth conductive member934. With this configuration, the third conductive member933and the fourth conductive member934function as terminals electrically conducted to the series connection portion (the joint portion where the second aggregate electrode85of the capacitor element8located on the x1 side in the second direction and the first aggregate electrode84of the capacitor element8on the x2 side in the second direction are bonded). Therefore, it is possible to detect the potential at the above-described series connection portion using the third conductive member933and the fourth conductive member934. Apart from detecting the potential, the capacitor device C6can control the potential at the above-described series connection portion as in the following example. At least one of the third conductive member933and the fourth conductive member934may be connected to the ground (GND) so that the series connection portion is set to the reference potential. In this case, the capacitor device C6can function as a Y capacitor and hence can reduce the common mode noise.

The capacitor device C6does not necessarily need to include both the third conductive member933and the fourth conductive member934and may include only one of them.

FIGS.17to19show a capacitor device according to a seventh embodiment. As shown inFIGS.17to19, the capacitor device C7of the seventh embodiment differs from the capacitor device C1in that the capacitor device C7further includes a plurality of first vias951and a plurality of second vias952.

As shown inFIG.19, the first vias951penetrate the obverse covering portion911in the first direction z. The first vias951are in contact with the obverse surface811of the multilayer body81. The first vias951are also in contact with the first external electrode921. Unlike this configuration, some of the first vias951may not be in contact with the first external electrode921. The constituent material of the first vias951is the same as that of the first conductive member931, for example. The first vias951are cylindrical in the example shown inFIGS.17and19, but the first vias951are not limited to cylindrical as long as they are columnar. In the example shown inFIG.17, the plurality of first vias951are arranged in a grid pattern.

Unlike this configuration, the first vias951may have the shape of a strip elongated in the third direction y in plan view and may be disposed along the second direction x.

As shown inFIG.19, the second via952penetrate the reverse covering portion912in the first direction z. The second vias952are in contact with the reverse surface812of a dielectric layer82. The second vias952are also in contact with the second external electrode922. Unlike this configuration, some of the second vias952may not be in contact with the second external electrode922. The constituent material of the second vias952is the same as that of the second conductive member932, for example. The second vias952are cylindrical in the example shown inFIGS.18and29, but the second vias952are not limited to cylindrical as long as they are columnar. In the example shown inFIG.18, the second vias952are arranged in a grid pattern. Unlike this configuration, the second vias952may have the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y in plan view and may be disposed along the second direction x.

As with the capacitor devices C1to C6, the capacitor device C7includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C6, the capacitor device C7can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C7includes the plurality of first vias951. With this configuration, when the capacitor device C7is energized, the heat emitted from the multilayer body81is transferred through the first vias951and dissipated via the first external electrode921. Thus, the capacitor device C7can improve the heat dissipation as compared with the capacitor device C1. Also, the capacitor device C7includes the plurality of second vias952. With this configuration, when the capacitor device C7is energized, the heat emitted from the multilayer body81is transferred through the second vias952and dissipated via the second external electrode922. Thus, the capacitor device C7can improve the heat dissipation as compared with the capacitor device C1.

FIGS.20and21show a capacitor device according to an eighth embodiment. As shown inFIGS.20and21, the capacitor device C8of the eighth embodiment differs from the capacitor device C1in the formation range of the first external electrode921and the formation range of the second external electrode922.

In the capacitor device C8, the first external electrode921is disposed to cover the area near the center in the second direction x of the obverse covering portion911as shown inFIGS.20and21. Correspondingly to this configuration, the first conductive member931includes a portion extending along a plane orthogonal to the first direction z (x-y plane) in addition to a portion extending along the first direction z.

In the capacitor device C8, the second external electrode922is disposed to cover the area near the center in the second direction x of the reverse covering portion912as shown inFIG.21. Correspondingly to this configuration, the second conductive member932includes a portion extending along the x-y plane in addition to a portion extending along the first direction z.

As with the capacitor devices C1to C7, the capacitor device C8includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C7, the capacitor device C8can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

As understood from the capacitor device C8, the first external electrode921can be formed at any location on the obverse covering portion911depending on the configuration of the first conductive member931. That is, the capacitor device of the present disclosure has greater flexibility in the formation position of the first external electrode921. Similarly, the second external electrode922can be formed at any location on the reverse covering portion912depending on the configuration of the second conductive member932. That is, the capacitor device of the present disclosure has greater flexibility in the formation position of the second external electrode922.

FIGS.22and23show a capacitor device according to a ninth embodiment. As shown inFIGS.22and23, the capacitor device C9of the ninth embodiment differs from the capacitor device C1in that the capacitor device C9includes a first signal wiring961and a second signal wiring962.

As shown inFIGS.22and23, the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962are formed on a part of the obverse covering portion911. The first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962do not electrically conduct to the multilayer body81(the capacitor element8).

As with the capacitor devices C1to C8, the capacitor device C9includes the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81). Thus, as with the capacitor devices C1to C8, the capacitor device C9can be mounted to two conductors spaced apart in the lamination direction of the multilayer body81.

The capacitor device C9includes the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962that do not electrically conduct to the multilayer body81. With this configuration, the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962can be used as wirings for transmitting some signals, so that the capacitor device C9can be used as a signal substrate having capacitor function.

In the capacitor device C9, the number of signal wirings (the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962) is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more.

Each of the capacitor devices C1to C9of the first through the ninth embodiments can include the characteristic parts of other capacitor devices.

In the capacitor devices C1to C9of the first through the ninth embodiments, the shape in plan view of each of the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922is rectangular. However, the shape in plan view is not limited to a rectangular shape. The first external electrode921and the second external electrode922can be changed as appropriate depending on the shape of each bonding target (mounting target).FIG.24shows a capacitor device according to such a variation and shows the case where the first external electrode921is not rectangular. The capacitor device shown inFIG.24is one example, and the shape of the first external electrode921is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, although the periphery of the first external electrode921extends in the second direction x or the third direction y, the periphery may extend diagonally to the second direction x and the third direction y. As understood from the example shown inFIG.24, forming the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922as appropriate depending on the shape of each bonding target (mounting target) makes it possible to suppress unintended short circuits and adjust the heat transfer path.

In the capacitor devices C1to C9of the first through the ninth embodiments, at least one of the conductor layers83(the first electrode layers831and the second electrode layers832), the first external electrode921or the second external electrode922may include a portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed.FIG.25shows a capacitor device according to such a variation and shows an example in which each first electrode layer831includes a portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed.

In the example shown inFIG.25, each first electrode layer831includes a plurality of pad pattern portions831aand a plurality of neck pattern portions831b. The pad pattern portions831aare rectangular in plan view. The pad pattern portions831aare spaced apart from each other and arranged in a grid pattern. Each of the neck pattern portions831bis the above-described portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed. Each of the neck pattern portions831bis disposed at the boundary between adjacent pad pattern portions831aand connects the adjacent pad pattern portions831ato each other.

In the example shown inFIG.25, when a defect occurs locally in a dielectric layer82in contact with a first electrode layer831, the insulation properties of the defective portion deteriorates. Such deterioration of the insulation properties causes a current to flow between the first electrode layer831and the second electrode layer832adjacent to the first electrode layer831in the first direction z through the defective portion. That is, the first electrode layer831and the second electrode layer832are short-circuited. At this time, the current concentrates on the neck pattern portion831bof the first electrode layer831, and the neck pattern portion831bgenerates heat due to the current concentration and then breaks due to the heat. As a result, the current is interrupted at the pad pattern portion831ain contact with the defective portion. In this way, the capacitor device shown inFIG.25eliminates the short circuit between the first electrode layer831and the second electrode layer832via the defective portion of the dielectric layer82, thereby preventing defects (e.g., functional degradation as a capacitor) caused by local defects in the dielectric layer82.

The neck pattern portions831bare formed in the first electrode layer831in the example shown inFIG.25. However, as mentioned before, a portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed similarly to the neck pattern portions831bmay be formed in the second electrode layers832, the first external electrode921or the second external electrode922. Semiconductor device:

Next, a semiconductor device including a capacitor device of the present disclosure will be described.

FIGS.26to36show a semiconductor device A1according to a first embodiment. The semiconductor device A1includes the above-described capacitor device C1. As shown inFIGS.26to36, the semiconductor device A1includes a plurality of switching elements1, a support substrate2, a pair of signal substrates3A and3B, a pair of input terminals41and42, an output terminal43, a plurality of signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B, a plurality of connecting members5and a resin member6in addition to the capacitor device C1.

Each of the switching elements1includes, for example, a semiconductor material. The semiconductor material is, for example, SiC (silicon carbide). The semiconductor material is not limited to SiC and may be Si (silicon), GaAs (gallium arsenide) or GaN (gallium nitride), for example. Preferably, a wide band gap semiconductor material is used. Each switching element1is, for example, a MOSFET. The switching elements1are not limited to MOSFETs, but may be other transistors such as field-effect transistors including MISFETs (Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor FETs) or bipolar transistors such as IGBTs. The switching elements1are identical with each other and, for example, n-channel MOSFETs. The switching elements1are rectangular in plan view but are not limited to this.

As shown inFIG.36, each of the switching elements1has an element obverse surface101and an element reverse surface102. In each switching element1, the element obverse surface101and the element reverse surface102are spaced apart from each other in the first direction z. The element obverse surface101faces upward in the first direction z (the z2 side in the first direction), and the element reverse surface102faces downward in the first direction z (the z1 side in the first direction).

Each of the switching elements1has a first electrode11, a second electrode12, a third electrode13, and an insulating film14. As shown inFIGS.31and36, the first electrode11and the second electrode12are provided on the element obverse surface101. The first electrode11is, for example, a source electrode, in which a source current flows. The second electrode12is, for example, a gate electrode, to which a gate voltage for driving the switching element1is applied. In plan view, the first electrode11is larger than the second electrode12. The first electrode11is made of a single region in the example shown inFIG.31, but the first electrode11may be divided into a plurality of regions. As shown inFIG.36, the third electrode13is provided on the element reverse surface102. The third electrode13is, for example, a drain electrode, in which a drain current flows. The third electrode13is formed over the entire (or almost entire) surface of the element reverse surface102. As shown inFIGS.31and36, the insulating film14is provided on the element obverse surface101. The insulating film14is electrically insulating. The insulating film14surrounds the first electrode11and the second electrode12in plan view. The insulating film14insulates the first electrode11and the second electrode12on the element obverse surface101. The insulating film14is made of, for example, a SiO2(silicon dioxide) layer, a SiN4(silicon nitride) layer, and a polybenzoxazole layer, laminated in this order on the element obverse surface101. The composition of the insulating film14is not limited to that described above, and for example, a polyimide layer may be laminated instead of the polybenzoxazole layer.

When a drive signal (e.g. a gate voltage) is inputted to the second electrode12(the gate electrode), the switching element1switches between a conducting state and a disconnected state in accordance with the drive signal. This operation for switching between the conducting state and the disconnected state is referred to as a “switching operation”. In the conducting state, a current flows from the third electrode13(the drain electrode) to the first electrode11(the source electrode). In the disconnected state, this current does not flow.

The switching elements1include a plurality of switching elements1A and a plurality of switching elements1B. In the example shown inFIG.30, the semiconductor device A1includes four switching elements1A and four switching elements1B. The number of switching elements1A and1B is not limited to the present configuration and may be changed as appropriate in accordance with the performance required of the semiconductor device A1. The semiconductor device A1is, for example, a half-bridge type switching circuit. In this case, the switching elements1A form the upper arm circuit of the semiconductor device A1, and the switching elements1B form the lower arm circuit of the semiconductor device A1. The switching elements1A and the switching elements1B are connected in series to form a bridge.

As shown inFIGS.30,31,35and36, the switching elements1A are mounted on the support substrate2. In the example shown inFIG.30, the switching elements1A are arranged along the third direction y and spaced apart from each other. The switching elements1A are conductively bonded to the support substrate2(the conductive substrate22A, described later) via a conductive bonding material, not shown (e.g., sintered metal such as sintered silver or sintered copper, metal paste of silver or copper, or solder). With the switching elements1A bonded to the conductive substrate22A, the element reverse surfaces102face the conductive substrate22A. Each switching element1A is an example of the “first switching element”.

As shown inFIGS.30,31,35and36, the switching elements1B are mounted on the support substrate2. In the example shown inFIG.30, the switching elements1B are arranged along the third direction y and spaced apart from each other. The switching elements1B are conductively bonded to the support substrate2(the conductive substrate22B, described later) via a conductive bonding material, not shown (e.g., sintered metal such as sintered silver or sintered copper, metal paste of silver or copper, or solder). With the switching elements1B bonded to the conductive substrate22B, the element reverse surfaces102face the conductive substrate22B. The switching elements1A and the switching elements1B overlap with each other as viewed in the second direction x in the example shown inFIG.30, but the switching elements1A and the switching elements1B may not overlap with each other. Each switching element1B is an example of the “second switching element”.

The support substrate2supports the switching elements1. The support substrate2includes a pair of insulating substrates21A and21B and a pair of conductive substrates22A and22B.

The pair of insulating substrates21A and21B are electrically insulating. The constituent material of the insulating substrates21A and21B is, for example, ceramics with excellent thermal conductivity. Examples of such ceramics include AlN (aluminum nitride). The insulating substrates21A and21B are not limited to ceramics and may be insulating resin sheets, for example. The insulating substrates21A and21B are, for example, rectangular in plan view. The insulating substrates21A and21B are arranged along the second direction x and spaced apart from each other. The insulating substrate21A is located on the x1 side in the second direction with respect to the insulating substrate21B.

As shown inFIG.35, each of the insulating substrates21A and21B has an obverse surface211and a reverse surface212. In each of the insulating substrates21A and21B, the obverse surface211and the reverse surface212are spaced apart from each other in the first direction z. The obverse surface211faces upward in the first direction z, and the reverse surface212faces downward in the first direction z. The obverse surface211is covered with the resin member6together with the conductive substrates22A and22B and the switching elements1. As shown inFIG.33, the reverse surface212is exposed from the resin member6(the resin reverse surface62, described later). A heat sink, not shown, may be connected to the reverse surface212.

Each of the conductive substrates22A and22B is a metal plate. The constituent material of the metal plate is, for example, copper or a copper alloy. The conductive substrates22A and22B, together with the two input terminals41and42and the output terminal43, form conduction paths to the switching elements1. The conductive substrates22A and22B may be covered with silver plating. The conductive substrates22A and22B are spaced apart from each other in the second direction x. In the example shown inFIGS.30and35, the conductive substrate22A is located on the x1 side in the second direction with respect to the conductive substrate22B.

As shown inFIG.35, each of the conductive substrates22A and22B has an obverse surface221and a reverse surface222. In each of the conductive substrates22A and22B, the obverse surface221and the reverse surface222are spaced apart from each other in the first direction z. The obverse surface221faces upward in the first direction z, and the reverse surface222faces downward in the first direction z.

As shown inFIG.35, the conductive substrate22A is bonded to the insulating substrate21A via a bonding material, not shown. This bonding material may be either conductive or insulating. With the conductive substrate22A bonded to the insulating substrate21A, the reverse surface222of the conductive substrate22A faces the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21A. The switching elements1A, the signal substrate3A and the capacitor device C1are mounted on the obverse surface221of the conductive substrate22A. The conductive substrate22A in the present embodiment is an example of the “first mount portion”.

As shown inFIG.35, the conductive substrate22B is bonded to the insulating substrate21B via a bonding material, not shown. This bonding material may be either conductive or insulating. With the conductive substrate22B bonded to the insulating substrate21B, the reverse surface222of the conductive substrate22B faces the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21B. The switching elements1B and the signal substrate3B are mounted on the obverse surface221of the conductive substrate22B. The conductive substrate22B in the present embodiment is an example of the “second mount portion”.

The configuration of the support substrate2is not limited to the above-described example. For example, two conductive substrates22A and22B may be bonded to a single insulating substrate. A metal layer may be formed on the reverse surface222of each of the insulating substrates21A and21B. The shape, size and arrangement of the insulating substrates21A and21B and the conductive substrates22A and22B may be changed as appropriate based on the number, arrangement or the like of the switching elements1.

The signal substrates3A and3B relay various signals between the switching elements1and the signal terminals44A to47A or44B to47B. The signal substrate3A includes an insulating layer31A, a gate layer32A and a detection layer33A, and the signal substrate3B includes an insulating layer31B, a gate layer32B and a detection layer33B.

The insulating layers31A and31B are electrically insulating, and their constituent material is, for example, glass epoxy resin. As shown inFIGS.27and29, each of the insulating layers31A and31B has the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y.

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the insulating layer31A is bonded to the obverse surface221of the conductive substrate22A. As shown inFIG.30, the insulating layer31A is located on the x1 side in the second direction with respect to the switching elements1A.

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the insulating layer31B is bonded to the obverse surface221of the conductive substrate22B. As shown inFIG.30, the insulating layer31B is located on the x2 side in the second direction with respect to the switching elements1B.

The gate layers32A and32B have electrical conductivity, and their constituent material is, for example, copper or a copper alloy. As shown inFIGS.29and30, each of the gate layers32A and32B has the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y.

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the gate layer32A is disposed on the insulating layer31A. The gate layer32A electrically conducts to the second electrode12(the gate electrode) of each switching element1A via a connecting member5(a gate wire51, described later).

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the gate layer32B is disposed on the insulating layer31B. The gate layer32B electrically conducts to the second electrode12(the gate electrode) of each switching element1B via a connecting member5(a gate wire51, described later).

The detection layers33A and33B have electrical conductivity, and their constituent material is, for example, copper or a copper alloy. As shown inFIGS.29and30, each of the detection layers33A and33B has the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y.

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the detection layer33A is disposed on the insulating layer31A together with the gate layer32A. As shown inFIG.30, the detection layer33A is located next to the gate layer32A and spaced apart from the gate layer32A in plan view. The detection layer33A is parallel to the gate layer32A in plan view. The detection layer33A is disposed closer to the switching elements1A than is the gate layer32A in the second direction x. The detection layer33A is located on the x2 side in the second direction with respect to the gate layer32A. The positional relationship between the gate layer32A and the detection layer33A in the second direction x may be opposite to the illustrated example. The detection layer33A electrically conducts to the first electrode11(the source electrode) of each switching element1A via a connecting member5(a detection wire52, described later).

As shown inFIGS.35and36, the detection layer33B is disposed on the insulating layer31B together with the gate layer32B. As shown inFIG.30, the detection layer33B is located next to the gate layer32B and spaced apart from the gate layer32B in plan view. The detection layer33B is parallel to the gate layer32B in plan view. The detection layer33B is disposed closer to the switching elements1B than is the gate layer32B. The detection layer33B is located on the x1 side in the second direction with respect to the gate layer32B. The positional relationship between the gate layer32B and the detection layer33B in the second direction x may be opposite to the illustrated example. The detection layer33B electrically conducts to the first electrode11(the source electrode) of each switching element1B via a connecting member5(a detection wire52, described later).

Each of the two input terminals41and42is made of a metal plate. The constituent material of the metal plate is copper or a copper alloy. As shown inFIGS.26to30, the two input terminals41and42are located on one side in the second direction x in the semiconductor device A1. A power supply voltage, for example, is applied between the two input terminals41and42. The input terminal41is a positive electrode (P terminal), and the input terminal42is a negative electrode (N terminal). The input terminal41and the input terminal42are spaced apart from each other.

As shown inFIGS.29and30, the input terminal41includes a pad portion411and a terminal portion412.

The pad portion411is a portion of the input terminal41that is covered with the resin member6. As shown inFIGS.30and35, the pad portion411is conductively bonded to the conductive substrate22A via a conductive block419. The pad portion411is bonded to the block419via a conductive bonding material, not shown, and the block419is bonded to the conductive substrate22A via a conductive bonding material, not shown. In this way, the input terminal41and the conductive substrate22A electrically conduct to each other. The constituent material of the block419is not particularly limited, and copper, a copper alloy, a CuMo (copper molybdenum) composite, or a CIC (Copper-Invar-Copper) composite may be used, for example. The bonding of the pad portion411and the block419and the bonding of the block419and the conductive substrate22A are not limited to the bonding using a conductive bonding material, and laser welding, ultrasonic bonding or the like may be used. Also, the bonding of the pad portion411and the conductive substrate22A is not limited to the bonding via the block419. For example, a part of the pad portion411may be bent so that the pad portion411is directly bonded to the conductive substrate22A.

The terminal portion412is a portion of the input terminal41that is exposed from the resin member6. As shown inFIG.29, the terminal portion412extends from the resin member6toward the above-mentioned one side in the second direction x in plan view. The terminal portion412is, for example, rectangular in plan view.

As shown inFIGS.29and30, the input terminal42includes a pad portion421and a terminal portion422.

The pad portion421is a portion of the input terminal42that is covered with the resin member6. As shown inFIG.29, the pad portion421includes a joining portion421a, a plurality of extending portions421b, and a connecting portion421c.

As shown inFIG.29, the joining portion421ahas, for example, the shape of a strip extending in the third direction y. As shown inFIGS.30,35and36, the joining portion421ais bonded to the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C1via a conductive block428. The joining portion421ais bonded to the block428via a conductive bonding material, not shown, and the block428is bonded to the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C1via a conductive bonding material, not shown. In this way, the input terminal42and the first external electrode921electrically conduct to each other. The constituent material of the block428is not particularly limited, and copper, a copper alloy, a CuMo composite, or a CIC composite may be used, for example. The bonding of the joining portion421aand the block428and the bonding of the block428and the first external electrode921are not limited to the bonding using a conductive bonding material, and laser welding, ultrasonic bonding or the like may be used.

As shown inFIG.29, each of the extending portions421bhas, for example, the shape of a strip extending from the joining portion421atoward the other side in the second direction x. Each extending portion421bextends in the second direction x from the joining portion421auntil it overlaps with a switching element1B in plan view. The extending portions421bare arranged along the third direction y and spaced apart from each other in plan view. As shown inFIGS.30and35, each extending portion421bis bonded to a switching element1B at its extremity via a conductive block429. As shown inFIGS.35and36, the extremity of each extending portion421bis bonded to a block429via a conductive bonding material, not shown, and the block429is bonded to the first electrode11of a switching element1B via a conductive bonding material, not shown. In this way, the input terminal42and the first electrodes11of the switching elements1B electrically conduct to each other. The constituent material of the block429is not particularly limited, and copper, a copper alloy, a CuMo composite, or a CIC composite may be used, for example. The bonding of the extending portions421band the blocks429and the bonding of the blocks429and the first electrodes11are not limited to the bonding using a conductive bonding material, and laser welding, ultrasonic bonding or the like may be used. Also, the bonding of the extending portions421band the first electrodes11of the switching elements1B is not limited to the bonding via the blocks429. For example, a part of each extending portion421bmay be bent so that the extending portion421bis directly bonded to the first electrode11of a switching element1B.

As shown inFIG.29, the connecting portion421cis a portion that connects the joining portion421aand the terminal portion422.

The terminal portion422is a portion of the input terminal42that is exposed from the resin member6. As shown inFIG.29, the terminal portion422extends from the resin member6toward the x1 side in the second direction in plan view. As shown inFIG.29, the terminal portion422is located on the y2 side in the third direction of the terminal portion412of the input terminal41in plan view. The shape in plan view of the terminal portion422is, for example, the same as that of the terminal portion412.

The output terminal43is made of a metal plate. The constituent material of the metal plate is, for example, copper or a copper alloy. As shown inFIGS.26to30, the output terminal43is located on the x2 side in the second direction in the semiconductor device A1. The AC power (voltage) converted by the switching elements1is outputted from the output terminal43.

As shown inFIG.29, the output terminal43includes a pad portion431and a terminal portion432.

The pad portion431is a portion of the output terminal43that is covered with the resin member6. As shown inFIGS.30and35, the pad portion431is conductively bonded to the conductive substrate22B via a conductive block439. As shown inFIG.35, the pad portion431is bonded to the block439via a conductive bonding material, not shown, and the block439is bonded to the conductive substrate22B via a conductive bonding material, not shown. In this way, the output terminal43and the conductive substrate22B electrically conduct to each other. The constituent material of the block439is not particularly limited, and copper, a copper alloy, a CuMo composite, or a CIC composite may be used, for example. The bonding of the pad portion431and the block439and the bonding of the block439and the conductive substrate22B are not limited to the bonding using a conductive bonding material, and laser welding, ultrasonic bonding, or the like may be used. Also, the bonding of the pad portion431and the conductive substrate22B is not limited to the bonding via the block439. For example, a part of the pad portion431may be bent so that the pad portion431is directly bonded to the conductive substrate22B.

The terminal portion432is a portion of the output terminal43that is exposed from the resin member6. As shown inFIG.29, the terminal portion432extends from the resin member6toward the x2 side in the second direction. The terminal portion432is, for example, rectangular in plan view.

The signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B are terminals for inputting or outputting control signals of the semiconductor device A1. Examples of the control signals include signals for controlling the switching operation of the switching elements1. The signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B have the same (or approximately the same) shape. Each of the signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B is L-shaped as viewed in the second direction x. As shown inFIGS.26to33, the signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B are arranged in the second direction x. As shown inFIG.34, the signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B overlap with each other as viewed in the second direction x. As shown inFIG.30, the signal terminals44A to47A are located next to the conductive substrate22A in the third direction y in plan view, and the signal terminals44B to47B are located next to the conductive substrate22B in the third direction y in plan view. The signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B project from, for example, the surface of the resin member6that faces the y1 side in the third direction (the resin side surface633, described later). The signal terminal44A to47A and44B to47B are formed from a same lead frame.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, the signal terminals44A and44B electrically conduct to the detection layers33A and33B, respectively, via connecting members5(second connection wires54, described later). The voltage applied to the first electrode11of each switching element1A (the voltage corresponding to the source current) is detected at the signal terminal44A. The signal terminal44A is the source signal detection terminal of the switching elements1A. The voltage applied to the first electrode11of each switching element1B (the voltage corresponding to the source current) is detected at the signal terminal44B. The signal terminal44B is the source signal detection terminal of the switching elements1B.

As shown inFIG.31, each of the signal terminals44A and44B includes a pad portion441and a terminal portion442. In each of the signal terminals44A and44B, the pad portion441is covered with the resin member6. Thus, the signal terminals44A and44B are supported by the resin member6. The terminal portion442is connected to the pad portion441and exposed from the resin member6. Each of the signal terminals44A and44B is bent at the terminal portion442.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, the signal terminals45A and45B electrically conduct to the gate layers32A and32B, respectively, via connecting members5(first connection wires53, described later). A drive signal (gate voltage) for driving the switching elements1A is applied to the signal terminal45A. The signal terminal45A is a terminal for inputting a drive signal for the switching elements1A (gate signal input terminal). A drive signal (gate voltage) for driving the switching elements1B is applied to the signal terminal45B. The signal terminal45B is a terminal for inputting a drive signal for the switching elements1B (gate signal input terminal).

As shown inFIG.31, each of the signal terminals45A and45B includes a pad portion451and a terminal portion452. In each of the signal terminals45A and45B, the pad portion451is covered with the resin member6. Thus, the signal terminals45A and45B are supported by the resin member6. The terminal portion452is connected to the pad portion451and exposed from the resin member6. Each of the signal terminals45A and45B is bent at the terminal portion452.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, the signal terminals46A,46B,47A, and47B do not electrically conduct to other structural elements. The semiconductor device A1may not include the signal terminals46A,46B,47A, and47B.

As shown inFIG.31, each of the signal terminals46A and46B includes a pad portion461and a terminal portion462. In each of the signal terminals46A and46B, the pad portion461is covered with the resin member6. Thus, the signal terminals46A and46B are supported by the resin member6. The terminal portion462is connected to the pad portion461and exposed from the resin member6. Each of the signal terminals46A and46B is bent at the terminal portion462. Each of the signal terminals47A and47B includes a pad portion471and a terminal portion472. In each of the signal terminals47A and47B, the pad portion471is covered with the resin member6. Thus, the signal terminals47A and47B are supported by the resin member6. The terminal portion472is connected to the pad portion471and exposed from the resin member6. Each of the signal terminals47A and47B is bent at the terminal portion472.

Each of the connecting members5electrically conducts two members that are spaced apart from each other. As shown inFIG.30, the connecting members5include a plurality of gate wires51, a plurality of detection wires52, a pair of first connection wires53, a pair of second connection wires54, and a plurality of lead members55.

The gate wires51, the detection wires52, the first connection wires53, and the second connection wires54are so-called bonding wires, and their constituent material is, for example, aluminum, gold, or copper.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, each of the gate wires51has one end bonded to the second electrode12(gate electrode) of a switching element1, and the other end bonded to one of the gate layers32A and32B. The plurality of gate wires51include those that electrically conduct the second electrodes12of the switching elements1A and the gate layer32A, and those that electrically conduct the second electrodes12of the switching elements1B and the gate layer32B.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, each of the detection wires52has one end bonded to the first electrode11(source electrode) of a switching element1, and the other end bonded to one of the detection layers33A and33B. The plurality of detection wires52include those that electrically conduct the first electrodes11of the switching elements1A and the detection layer33A, and those that electrically conduct the first electrodes11of the switching elements1B and the detection layer33B.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, one of the pair of first connection wires53connects the gate layer32A and the signal terminal45A (gate signal input terminal), and the other one connects the gate layer32B and the signal terminal45B (gate signal input terminal). The above-mentioned one of the first connection wires53has one end bonded to the gate layer32A and the other end bonded to the pad portion451of the signal terminal45A, thereby electrically conducting these to each other. The above-mentioned other one of the first connection wires53has one end bonded to the gate layer32B and the other end bonded to the pad portion451of the signal terminal45B, thereby electrically conducting these to each other.

As shown inFIGS.30and31, one of the pair of second connection wires54connects the detection layer33A and the signal terminal44A (source signal detection terminal), and the other one connects the detection layer33B and the signal terminal44B (source signal detection terminal). The above-mentioned one of the second connection wires54has one end bonded to the detection layer33A and the other end bonded to the pad portion441of the signal terminal44A, thereby electrically conducting these to each other. The above-mentioned other one of the second connection wires54has one end bonded to the detection layer33B and the other end bonded to the pad portion441of the signal terminal44B, thereby electrically conducting these to each other.

Each of the lead members55is made of a conductive material, which is, for example, aluminum, gold, or copper. In the semiconductor device A1, a bonding wire may be used instead of each lead member55. As shown inFIGS.30,31, and36, each lead member55electrically conducts the first electrode11of a switching element1A and the conductive substrate22B. As shown inFIGS.30and31, each lead member55has the shape of a strip extending in the second direction x in plan view.

As shown inFIGS.31,35and36, each lead member55includes a first bonding portion551, a second bonding portion552, and a link portion553. The first bonding portion551is a portion of the lead member55that is connected to a switching element1A. The first bonding portion551is bonded to the first electrode11of the switching element1A via a conductive bonding material, not shown. The first bonding portion551overlaps with the first electrode11of the switching element1A in plan view. The second bonding portion552is a portion of the lead member55that is bonded to the conductive substrate22B. The second bonding portion552is bonded to the obverse surface221of the conductive substrate22B via a conductive bonding material, not shown. The second bonding portion552and the conductive substrate22B may be directly bonded by laser welding or ultrasonic welding. The second bonding portion552overlaps with the conductive substrate22B in plan view. The thickness (the dimension in the first direction z) of the second bonding portion552is larger than the thickness (the dimension in the first direction z) of the first bonding portion551. The link portion553is a portion of the lead member55that is connected to the first bonding portion551and the second bonding portion552. The thickness (the dimension in the first direction z) of the link portion553is the same (or approximately the same) as the thickness (the dimension in the first direction z) of the first bonding portion551. The link portion553bridges between the conductive substrate22A and the conductive substrate22B in plan view.

As shown inFIGS.29,30and35, the resin member6covers the switching elements1, the support substrate2(except the reverse surfaces212of the insulating substrates21A and21B), the signal substrates3A and3B, a part of each of the two input terminals42, a part of the output terminal43, a part of each of the signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B, and the connecting members5. The constituent material of the resin member6is, for example, an epoxy resin. As shown inFIGS.29,30and35, the resin member6includes a resin obverse surface61, a resin reverse surface62, and a plurality of resin side surfaces631to634.

As shown inFIG.35, the resin obverse surface61and the resin reverse surface62are spaced apart from each other in the first direction z. The resin obverse surface61faces the z2 side in the first direction, and the resin reverse surface62faces the z1 side in the first direction. As shown inFIG.33, the resin reverse surface62has the shape of a frame surrounding the reverse surfaces212of the insulating substrates21A and21B in plan view. The reverse surfaces212of the insulating substrates21A and21B are exposed from the resin reverse surface62.

Each of the resin side surfaces631to634is connected to both the resin obverse surface61and the resin reverse surface62and located between these surfaces in the first direction z. The resin side surface631and the resin side surface632are spaced apart from each other in the second direction x. The resin side surface631faces the x1 side in the second direction, and the resin side surface632faces the x2 side in the second direction. The two input terminals41and42protrude from the resin side surface631, and the output terminal43protrudes from the resin side surface632. The resin side surface633and the resin side surface634are spaced apart from each other in the third direction y. The resin side surface633faces the y1 side in the third direction, and the resin side surface634faces the y2 side in the third direction. The signal terminals44A to47A and44B to47B protrude from the resin side surface633.

As shown inFIGS.33and35, the resin member6includes a recess65that is recessed from the resin reverse surface62in the first direction z. As shown inFIG.33, the recess65has the shape of a loop surrounding the support substrate2in plan view. The resin member6may not be formed with the recess65.

The capacitor device C1is mounted on the conductive substrate22A. As shown inFIGS.35and36, the capacitor device C1is conductively bonded, via a conductive bonding material, not shown (e.g., solder, metal paste, or sintered metal), to the conductive substrate22A at the second external electrode922. In the capacitor device C1, the block428is conductively bonded to the first external electrode921via a conductive bonding material, not shown. The first external electrode921of the capacitor device C1electrically conducts to the joining portion421aof the input terminal42via the block428. In the semiconductor device A1, the capacitor device C1has a capacitance of 500 nF or less, for example.

In the semiconductor device A1, the distance between the capacitor device C1and each switching element1A in the second direction x is not particularly limited, but is preferably 2 cm or less to reduce the parasitic inductance between the capacitor device C1and each switching element1A.

The effects of the semiconductor device A1are as follows.

The semiconductor device A1includes the capacitor device C1. The capacitor device C1has the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922that are disposed on opposite sides in the first direction z and bonded to the block428and the conductive substrate22A, respectively, which are spaced apart from each other in the first direction z. In a configuration that does not include the capacitor device C1unlike the semiconductor device A1, there is space between the pad portion421and the conductive substrate22A in the first direction z in the state before the resin member6is formed. If the capacitor described in Patent Document 1 is used for such a configuration, it is difficult to place the capacitor device in this space and electrically connect the pad portion421and the conductive substrate22A using the mounting method described in Patent Document 2. In contrast, because the capacitor device C1has the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922disposed on opposite sides in the first direction z, it is possible to place the capacitor device C1in the above-described space and electrically connect the pad portion421and the conductive substrate22A (via the block428). In other words, because the capacitor device C1can be mounted between two conductors spaced apart from each other in the first direction z (the lamination direction of the multilayer body81), the semiconductor device A1can contain the capacitor device C1in the above-described space. That is, the semiconductor device A1can incorporate the capacitor device C1by using the feature of the capacitor device C1.

In the semiconductor device A1, each of the switching elements1A and1B has the first electrode11and the third electrode13. In the example where each of the switching elements1A and1B is a MOSFET, the first electrode11is a source electrode, and the third electrode13is a drain electrode. The second external electrode922of the capacitor device C1electrically conducts to the third electrode13of each switching element1A via the conductive substrate22A. The first electrode11of each switching element1A electrically conducts to the third electrode13of a switching element1B via a lead member55and the conductive substrate22B. The third electrode13of each switching element1B electrically conducts to the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C1via the block429, the input terminal42(the pad portion421), and the block428. Such a configuration forms a current path (see the bold arrows inFIG.36) from the capacitor device C1(the second external electrode922) to the capacitor device C1(the first external electrode921) through the conductive substrate22A, each switching element1A (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), each lead member55, the conductive substrate22B, each switching element1B (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), each block429, the input terminal42(the pad portion421) and the block428in this order. The semiconductor device A1reduces the internal inductance by forming such a current path. Preferably, the semiconductor device A1reduces the internal inductance to 10 nH or less by the current path, which is effective in suppressing the internal loss and noise generation in the semiconductor device A1.

In the semiconductor device A1, the second external electrode922is bonded to the conductive substrate22A. With such a configuration, when the semiconductor device A1is energized, the heat generated by the capacitor device C1is conducted to the conductive substrate22A. Also, in the capacitor device C1, on the lower side in the first direction z of the multilayer body81, the second external electrode922is disposed, and the first external electrode921is not disposed. Therefore, the capacitor device C1can have a larger contact area with the conductive substrate22A as compared with a conventional chip-type capacitor. Thus, the semiconductor device A1can increase the contact area between the capacitor device C1and the conductive substrate22A to improve the heat dissipation from the capacitor device C1.

In the semiconductor device A1, the capacitor device C1is bonded to the conductive substrate22A together with the switching elements1A. With this configuration, when the semiconductor device A1is energized, the heat generated by the capacitor device C1is diffused by the conductive substrate22A and dissipated to the outside through the conductive substrate22A and the insulating substrate21A. Because the switching elements1A are also bonded to the conductive substrate22A, the heat generated by the switching elements1A is also diffused by the conductive substrate22A and dissipated to the outside through the conductive substrate22A and the insulating substrate21A. That is, the heat dissipation path for the capacitor device C1is the same as that for each switching element1A. Thus, the semiconductor device A1can improve the heat dissipation of the capacitor device C1.

Although the semiconductor device A1includes the capacitor device C1in the above example, it may include the capacitor device C2to C8instead of the capacitor device C1.

FIGS.37and38show a semiconductor device A2according to a second embodiment. As shown inFIGS.37and38, the semiconductor device A2differs from the semiconductor device A1in the following points. First, the semiconductor device A2includes the above-described capacitor device C9instead of the capacitor device C1. Second, the semiconductor device A2does not include the signal substrate3A.

As shown inFIG.37, in the semiconductor device A2, the first signal wiring961of the capacitor device C9has the gate wires51and a first connection wire53connected thereto, instead of the gate layer32A of the signal substrate3A. The first signal wiring961electrically conducts to the second electrodes12(the gate electrodes) of the switching elements1A via the gate wires51and electrically conducts to the signal terminal45A via the first connection wire53. The first signal wiring961is a transmission path of a drive signal for driving each switching element1A.

As shown inFIG.37, in the semiconductor device A2, the second signal wiring962of the capacitor device C9has the detection wires52and a second connection wire54connected thereto, instead of the detection layer33A of the signal substrate3A. The second signal wiring962electrically conducts to the first electrodes11(the source electrodes) of the switching elements1A via the detection wires52and electrically conducts to the signal terminal44A via the second connection wire54. The second signal wiring962is a transmission path for a signal (the voltage corresponding to the source current) indicating the conduction state of each switching element1A.

The semiconductor device A2can achieve the same effects as the semiconductor device A1. Furthermore, the semiconductor device A2eliminates the need for the signal substrate3A by including the capacitor device C9instead of the capacitor device C1.

FIGS.39to43show a semiconductor device A3according to a third embodiment. As shown inFIGS.39to43, the semiconductor device A3differs from the semiconductor device A2in the following points. First, the semiconductor device A3includes the capacitor device C10instead of the capacitor device C9. Second, the semiconductor device A3includes a plurality of passive elements71. Thirdly, the semiconductor device A3has an input terminal42of a different shape.

As shown inFIGS.42and43, as a difference from the capacitor device C9, the capacitor device C10further includes an external wiring971.

As shown inFIG.43, the external wiring971is formed on a part of the obverse covering portion911as with the first external electrode921, the first signal wiring961, and the second signal wiring962. The external wiring971is not connected to a wiring penetrating the obverse covering portion911, and does not electrically conduct to the multilayer body81(the capacitor element8) in the capacitor device C10alone. In the example shown inFIGS.42and43, the external wiring971is disposed between the first external electrode921and the first signal wiring961in the second direction x.

Each of the passive elements71is, for example, a resistor. In the example shown inFIG.41, each passive element71is of a chip type. Each passive element71may be a capacitor or an inductor rather than a resistor. The semiconductor device A3includes four passive elements71in the illustrated example, but the number of passive elements71is not limited to four. Each passive element71has a pair of electrodes, one of which is bonded to the first external electrode921and the other to the external wiring971. Thus, the external wiring971is electrically connected to the first external electrode921via each passive element71. For the convenience of understanding, the passive element71is shown by imaginary line inFIG.43.

The input terminal42of the semiconductor device A3differs from the input terminals42of the semiconductor devices A1and A2in the configuration of the pad portion421. As shown inFIGS.39to41, the pad portion421of the semiconductor device A3includes three joining portions421a,421dand421e, a plurality of strip portions421fand421g, and a connecting portion421c.

The two joining portions421dand421ehave the shape of strip extending in the third direction y as with the joining portion421a. The three joining portions421a,421dand421eare spaced apart in the second direction x and parallel (or generally parallel) to each other. In the second direction x, the joining portion421dis located between the two joining portions421aand421e. The joining portion421eoverlaps with each switching element1B in plan view.

Each of the strip portions421fand421gis elongated in the second direction x in plan view. As shown inFIG.39, the strip portions421fextend from the joining portion421ato the joining portion421dalong the second direction x. As shown inFIG.39, the strip portions421gextend from the joining portion421dto the joining portion421ealong the second direction x.

As shown inFIGS.40and41, in the semiconductor device A3, the joining portion421aand the strip portions421fare electrically connected to the external wiring971of the capacitor device C10via blocks428. In the illustrated example, each block428is disposed at the boundary between the joining portion421aand a strip portion421fin plan view, as shown inFIG.40. Each block428may entirely overlap with the joining portion421aor may entirely overlap with a strip portion421fin plan view. Also, in the semiconductor device A3, the joining portion421eis electrically connected to the respective first electrodes11of the switching elements1B via blocks429as shown inFIGS.40and41.

With such a configuration, each first electrode11electrically conducts to the joining portion421evia a block428. The first electrode11electrically conducts to the terminal portion422via the connecting portion421cthrough a conduction path that branches from the joining portion421einto the strip portions421g, then converges on the joining portion421d, then branches from the joining portion421dinto the strip portions421f, and then converges on the joining portion421a. Also, the present configuration forms a current path from the second external electrode922of the capacitor device C10to the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C10through the conductive substrate22A, each switching element1A (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), each lead member55, the conductive substrate22B, each switching element1B (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), each block429, the input terminal42(the pad portion421), each block428, the external wiring971of the capacitor device C10, and each passive element71in this order.

The semiconductor device A3can achieve the same effects as the semiconductor device A2. Moreover, in the semiconductor device A3, the capacitor element8of the capacitor device C10and each passive element71are electrically connected in series. In the example where each passive element71is a resistor, the capacitance component of the capacitor element8and the resistance component of each passive element71can form an RC series circuit.

FIGS.44and45show a semiconductor device A4according to a fourth embodiment. As shown inFIGS.44and45, the semiconductor device A4differs from the semiconductor device A3mainly in that the semiconductor device A4includes a capacitor device C11instead of the capacitor device C10.

The capacitor device C11differs from the capacitor device C10in that the capacitor device C11includes a plurality of first external electrodes921. Three first external electrodes921are provided in the example shown inFIGS.44and45, but the number of first external electrodes921is not limited. In the capacitor device C11, each of the first external electrodes921includes a portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed, as in the example shown inFIG.25. As shown inFIG.45, each first external electrode921includes a plurality of pad pattern portions921aand a neck pattern portion921b. Each pad pattern portion921ais formed similarly to each pad pattern portion831ashown inFIG.25, and the neck pattern portion921bis formed similarly to each neck pattern portion831bshown inFIG.25. In the example shown inFIG.45, the first conductive member931is connected to the pad pattern portion921aon the x1 side of each first external electrode921.

The capacitor device C11differs from the capacitor device C10in that the capacitor device C11includes a plurality of external wirings971. In the example shown inFIGS.44and45, three external wirings971, which is the same number as the first external electrodes921, are provided, but the number of external wirings971is not limited. Each of the passive elements71is bonded to the pad pattern portion921aof a first external electrode921and an external wiring971. In the example shown inFIGS.44and45, one of the electrodes of each passive element71is bonded to the pad pattern portion921aon the x2 side of a first external electrode921. Each external wiring971may also include a portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed (i.e., a neck pattern portion), as with each first external electrode921.

The semiconductor device A4can achieve the same effects as the semiconductor device A3. Furthermore, in the semiconductor device A4, when an excessive current is generated in any of the first external electrodes921, disconnection occurs at the neck pattern portion921bof the first external electrode921, thereby preventing the excessive current from flowing to other portions.

In the semiconductor devices A1to A4, the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922of each capacitor device C1and C9to C11as well as the external wiring971of each capacitor device C10and C11may include a Ni—P layer (nickel-phosphorus alloy layer) rather than copper or a copper alloy. In such a case, the resistance values of the first external electrode921, the second external electrode922, and the external wiring971increase as compared with the case where they are made of copper or copper alloy. Thus, the capacitance component of the capacitor element8and the respective resistance components of the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922can be used to form a CR snubber circuit. Moreover, in the above-described semiconductor devices A3and A4, when the resistance component of each passive element71is insufficient, it can be compensated for by the resistance components of the first external electrode921and the external wiring971. Moreover, the semiconductor device A4can increase the amount of heat generated in each neck pattern portion921bdue to the current flowing in the first external electrode921, so that disconnection due to the above-described excessive current can easily occur.

FIGS.46to51show a semiconductor device A5according to a fifth embodiment. As shown in the figure, the semiconductor device A5includes a pair of switching elements1A and1B, a pair of diodes16A and16B, a support substrate2, two input terminals41and42, an output terminal43, a plurality of signal terminals44A,44B,45A and45B, plurality of gate wires51, a plurality of detection wires52, a plurality of first connection wires53, a plurality of second connection wires54, a conductive member56, a resin member6, a heat sink72, and a capacitor device C12.

The support substrate2of the present embodiment includes an insulating substrate21, two wiring layers231and232, two gate wiring layers233and234, two detection wiring layers235and236, and two electrode lead-out layer237and238.

As shown inFIGS.46to50, the insulating substrate21supports the two wiring layers231and232, the two gate wiring layers233and234, the two detection wiring layers235and236, the two electrode lead-out layers237and238, and the resin member6. The insulating substrate21also supports the signal terminals44A,44B,45A and45B. The insulating substrate21is, for example, a ceramic substrate, as with the insulating substrates21A and21B. The insulating substrate21has an obverse surface211and a reverse surface212. The obverse surface211faces upward (the z1 side) in the first direction. The reverse surface212faces downward (the z2 side) in the first direction. The reverse surface212is exposed from the resin member6.

The two wiring layers231and232are disposed on the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21. The constituent material of the two wiring layers231and232includes copper or a copper alloy. The switching element1A and the diode16A are mounted on the wiring layer231. In the present embodiment, with the switching element1A mounted on the wiring layer231, the wiring layer231faces the element reverse surface102of the switching element1A.

Although the single switching element1A is mounted on the wiring layer231in the illustrated example, a plurality of switching elements1A may be mounted. The wiring layer231contains copper or a copper alloy. The wiring layer231has a rectangular shape elongated in the third direction y in plan view. The input terminal41is conductively boded to the end on the y1 side in the third direction of the wiring layer231. The switching element1B and the diode16B are mounted on the wiring layer232. In the present embodiment, with the switching element1B mounted on the wiring layer232, the wiring layer232faces the element obverse surface101of the switching element1B. Although the single switching element1B is mounted on the wiring layer232in the illustrated example, a plurality of switching elements1B may be mounted. The wiring layer232is spaced apart from the wiring layer231in the second direction x. The wiring layer232has a rectangular shape elongated in the third direction y in plan view. The wiring layer232is formed with a cutout in plan view. The cutout is formed on the side on which the gate wiring layer234and the detection wiring layer236are located in the second direction x. The input terminal42is conductively boded to the end on the y1 side in the third direction of the wiring layer232.

The two gate wiring layers233and234are disposed on the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21. The constituent material of the two gate wiring layers233and234includes copper or a copper alloy. The gate wiring layer233is located on the opposite side of the wiring layer232with respect to the wiring layer231in the second direction x. A gate wire51is bonded to the gate wiring layer233. The gate wiring layer233electrically conducts to the second electrode12of the switching element1A via the gate wire51. A first connection wire53is also bonded to the gate wiring layer233. The gate wiring layer233electrically conducts to the signal terminal45A via the first connection wire53. The gate wiring layer233extends along the third direction y. The gate wiring layer234is located on the opposite side of the wiring layer231with respect to the wiring layer232in the second direction x. A gate wire51is bonded to the gate wiring layer234. The gate wiring layer234electrically conducts to the second electrode12of the switching element1B via the gate wire51. A first connection wire53is also bonded to the gate wiring layer234. The gate wiring layer234electrically conducts to the signal terminal45B via the first connection wire53. The gate wiring layer234extends along the third direction y.

The two detection wiring layers235and236are disposed on the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21. The constituent material of the two detection wiring layers235and236includes copper or a copper alloy. The detection wiring layer235is located next to the gate wiring layer233in the second direction x. A detection wire52is bonded to the detection wiring layer235. The detection wiring layer235electrically conducts to the first electrode11of the switching element1A via the detection wire52. A second connection wire54is also bonded to the detection wiring layer235. The detection wiring layer235electrically conducts to the signal terminal44A via the second connection wire54. The detection wiring layer235extends along the third direction y and is parallel to the gate wiring layer233. The detection wiring layer236is located next to the gate wiring layer234in the second direction x. A detection wire52is bonded to the detection wiring layer236. The detection wiring layer236electrically conducts to the first electrode11of the switching element1B via the detection wire52. A second connection wire54is also bonded to the detection wiring layer236. The detection wiring layer236electrically conducts to the signal terminal44B via the second connection wire54. The detection wiring layer236extends along the third direction y and is parallel to the gate wiring layer234.

The two electrode lead-out layers237and238are disposed on the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21. The constituent material of the two electrode lead-out layers237and238includes copper or a copper alloy. The two electrode lead-out layers237and238are disposed side by side in the third direction y in the cutout formed in the wiring layer232. In plan view, the switching element1B overlaps with the two electrode lead-out layers237and238. A gate wire51is bonded to the electrode lead-out layer237. The electrode lead-out layer237electrically conducts to the gate wiring layer234via the gate wire51. The second electrode12of the switching element1B is bonded to the electrode lead-out layer237with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the second electrode12of the switching element1B electrically conducts to the gate wiring layer234via the electrode lead-out layer237and the gate wire51. A detection wire52is bonded to the electrode lead-out layer238. The electrode lead-out layer238electrically conducts to the detection wiring layer236via the detection wire52. The first electrode11of the switching element1B is bonded to the electrode lead-out layer238with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the first electrode11of the switching element1B electrically conducts to the detection wiring layer236via the electrode lead-out layer238and the detection wire52.

As shown inFIGS.46and47, the diodes16A and16B are bonded to the two wiring layers231and232, respectively. The diode16A is bonded to the wiring layer231, and the diode16B is bonded to the wiring layer232. Each of the pair of diodes16A and16B is, for example, a Schottky barrier diode. The diode16A is connected in reverse parallel to the switching element1A. The diode16B is connected in reverse parallel to the switching element1B. Each of the diodes16A and16B functions as a freewheeling diode.

Each of the diodes16A and16B has an anode electrode161and a cathode electrode162. The anode electrode161and the cathode electrode162are located on opposite sides of each other in the first direction z. In the example where the switching elements1A and1B are MOSFETs, diodes that can replace the diodes16A and16B may be incorporated in the switching elements1A and1B. In such a case, the diodes16A and16B are unnecessary.

In the diode16A, the anode electrode161is provided on the side in the first direction z which the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21faces. The cathode electrode162of the diode16A is disposed to face the wiring layer231. The cathode electrode162of the diode16A is bonded to the wiring layer231with a conductive bonding material and electrically conducts to the wiring layer231. In the diode16B, the cathode electrode162is provided on the side in the first direction z which the obverse surface211of the insulating substrate21faces. The anode electrode161of the diode16B is disposed to face the wiring layer232. The anode electrode161of the diode16B is bonded to the wiring layer232with a conductive bonding material and electrically conducts to the wiring layer232.

As shown inFIGS.49and50, the conductive member56is spaced apart from the insulating substrate21toward the side in the first direction z which the obverse surface211faces. The conductive member56is bonded to the first electrode11of the switching element1A and the third electrode13of the switching element1B. The conductive member56is also bonded to the anode electrode161of the diode16A and the cathode electrode162of the diode16B. The conductive member56is made of a single lead frame. The constituent material of the lead frame includes, for example, copper or a copper alloy.

The conductive member56includes a base portion561, a pair of first bonding portions562, and a pair of second bonding portions563. As shown inFIG.47, the base portion561extends along the third direction y. In plan view, the base portion561overlaps with the two wiring layers231and232and the capacitor device C12. As shown inFIG.49, the output terminal43is bonded to the end on the y2 side in the third direction of the conductive member56.

As shown inFIGS.47and50, the pair of first bonding portions562are connected to the opposite ends in the second direction x of the base portion561. As understood fromFIGS.47and50, the pair of first bonding portions562are bonded to the first electrode11of the switching element1A and the third electrode13of the switching element1B, respectively, with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the first electrode11of the switching element1A and the third electrode13of the switching element1B electrically conduct to the conductive member56.

As shown inFIG.47, the pair of second bonding portions563are connected to the opposite ends in the second direction x of the base portion561. The pair of second bonding portions563are bonded to the anode electrode161of the diode16A and the cathode electrode162of the diode16B, respectively, with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the anode electrode161of the diode16A and the cathode electrode162of the diode16B electrically conduct to the conductive member56.

As shown inFIGS.49and50, the heat sink72is bonded to the reverse surface212of the insulating substrate21. Thus, the insulating substrate21is located between the heat sink72and the two wiring layers231and232or the conductive member56in the first direction z. The constituent material of the heat sink72includes, for example, aluminum. The semiconductor device A5may not include the heat sink72.

As shown inFIG.46, in the present embodiment, the two input terminals41and42protrude from the resin side surface633, and the output terminal43protrudes from the resin side surface634. The two signal terminals44A and45A protrude from the resin side surface631, and the two signal terminals44B and45B protrude from the resin side surface632.

The capacitor device C12is bonded to the two wiring layers231and232. The capacitor device C12bridges between the two wiring layers231and232in plan view. The capacitor device C12is located between the support substrate2and the base portion561in the first direction z.

The capacitor device C12differs from the capacitor device C1in the following points. That is, as shown inFIG.51, both of the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are formed to cover the reverse covering portion912. Because the first external electrode921is formed to cover the reverse covering portion912, the first conductive member931penetrates the reverse covering portion912and is in contact with the first reverse electrode portion843(the first aggregate electrode84). Each of the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922has a rectangular shape elongated in the third direction y. As shown inFIG.51, the first external electrode921is disposed at the edge on the x1 side in the second direction of the insulating cover91, and the second external electrode922is disposed at the edge on the x2 side in the second direction of the insulating cover91. The first external electrode921is bonded to the wiring layer231via a conductive bonding material, and the second external electrode922is bonded to the wiring layer232via a conductive bonding material.

In the semiconductor device A5, the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C12is bonded to the wiring layer231on which the switching element1A is mounted, and the second external electrode922of the capacitor device C12is mounted to the wiring layer232on which the switching element1B is mounted. Such a configuration forms a current path from the capacitor device C12(the first external electrode921) to the capacitor device C12(the second external electrode922) through the wiring layer231, the switching element1A (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), the conductive member56, the switching element1B (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), and the wiring layer232in this order. As with the semiconductor device A1, the semiconductor device A5reduces the internal inductance by forming such a current path.

In the semiconductor device A5, each of the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922of the capacitor device C12is formed to cover the reverse covering portion912. That is, the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are formed on the lower side of the capacitor device C12, and no external electrodes (the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922) are located on the upper side of the capacitor device C12. With such a configuration, unintended contact (short circuit) between the conductive member56and the capacitor device C12can be prevented when the conductive member56is disposed above the capacitor device C12.

FIGS.52to54show a semiconductor device A6according to a sixth embodiment. As shown in the figures, the semiconductor device A6differs from the semiconductor device A5in the following points. First, the semiconductor device A6includes a capacitor device C13instead of the capacitor device C12. Second, the two switching elements1A and1B and the two diodes16A and16B are mounted on the capacitor device C13.

The capacitor device C13differs from the capacitor device C5in the following points. That is, as shown inFIG.54, both the first external electrode921and the second external electrode922are formed to cover the obverse covering portion911. Because the second external electrode922is formed to cover the obverse covering portion911, the second conductive member932penetrates the obverse covering portion911and is in contact with the second side electrode portion851(the second aggregate electrode85). As shown inFIG.54, the first external electrode921is disposed along the edge on the x1 side in the second direction of the insulating cover91, and the second external electrode922is disposed along the edge on the x2 side in the second direction of the insulating cover91. The third electrode13of the switching element1A and the cathode electrode162of the diode16A are bonded to the first external electrode921with a conductive bonding material. The first electrode11of the switching element1B and the anode electrode161of the diode16B are bonded to the second external electrode922with a conductive bonding material. The second external electrode922is formed with a cutout in plan view. The cutout is formed on the side on which the gate wiring layer234and the detection wiring layer236are located in the second direction x.

The capacitor device C13includes the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962. As shown inFIG.52, each of the first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962of the present embodiment has the shape of a strip extending in the second direction x. The first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962are disposed side by side in the third direction y and parallel to the second direction x. The first signal wiring961and the second signal wiring962are located in the cutout formed in the second external electrode922. A gate wire51is bonded to the first signal wiring961. The first signal wiring961electrically conducts to the gate wiring layer234via the gate wire51. Also, the second electrode12of the switching element1B is bonded to the first signal wiring961with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the second electrode12of the switching element1B electrically conducts to the gate wiring layer234via the first signal wiring961and the gate wire51. A detection wire52is bonded to the second signal wiring962. The second signal wiring962electrically conducts to the detection wiring layer236via the detection wire52. Also, the first electrode11of the switching element1B is bonded to the second signal wiring962with a conductive bonding material. With such a configuration, the first electrode11of the switching element1B electrically conducts to the detection wiring layer236via the second signal wiring962and the detection wire52.

In the semiconductor device A6, the wiring layer232may not be formed with the cutout, and the support substrate2may not include either of the two electrode lead-out layers237and238. In the semiconductor device A6, the capacitor device C13is disposed on the two wiring layers231and232, but does not electrically conduct to these wiring layers. The capacitor device C13includes two capacitor elements8in the illustrated example. However, the number of capacitor elements8of the capacitor device C13is not limited and may be one or three or more.

In the semiconductor device A6, the switching element1A is mounted on the first external electrode921of the capacitor device C13, and the switching element1B is mounted on the second external electrode922of the capacitor device C13. Such a configuration forms a current path from the capacitor device C13(the first external electrode921) to the capacitor device C13(the second external electrode922) through the switching element1A (from the third electrode13to the first electrode11), the conductive member56, and the switching element1B in this order. As with the semiconductor device A1, the semiconductor device A6reduces the internal inductance by forming such a current path.

In the semiconductor device A6, the two switching elements1A and1B and the two diodes16A and16B are mounted on the capacitor device C13. With such a configuration, the capacitor device C13can be made larger as compared with that in the semiconductor device A5, whereby the capacitance of the capacitor device C13can be made higher. That is, the semiconductor device A6has a configuration that is preferred when a capacitor device C13with high capacitance is needed (for example, the supply voltage inputted to the two input terminals41and42is high).

The capacitor device and the semiconductor device according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications in design may be made freely in the specific structure of each part of the capacitor device and the semiconductor device according to the present disclosure. The present disclosure includes embodiments described in the following clauses.

A capacitor device comprising:a capacitor element;an insulating cover covering the capacitor element;a first external electrode exposed from the insulating cover;a second external electrode exposed from the insulating cover;a first conductive member electrically conducting to the first external electrode and the capacitor element; anda second conductive member electrically conducting to the second external electrode and the capacitor element, whereinthe capacitor element includes a multilayer body comprising a plurality of dielectric layers and a plurality of conductor layers alternately laminated in a first direction,the insulating cover covers an entirety of the capacitor element except a connection portion where the capacitor element and the first conductive member are connected and a connection portion where the capacitor element and the second conductive member are connected, andthe first external electrode and the second external electrode are formed on opposite sides of each other in the first direction.

The capacitor device according to clause 1, wherein the capacitor element includes a first aggregate electrode to which the first conductive member is connected and a second aggregate electrode to which the second conductive member is connected, andthe plurality of conductor layers include a plurality of first electrode layers connected to the first aggregate electrode and a plurality of second electrode layers connected to the second aggregate electrode.

The capacitor device according to clause 2, wherein the multilayer body includes an obverse surface and a reverse surface spaced apart in the first direction,the insulating cover includes an obverse covering portion covering the obverse surface and a reverse covering portion covering the reverse surface,the first external electrode covers a part of the obverse covering portion, andthe second external electrode covers a part of the reverse covering portion.

The capacitor device according to clause 3, wherein the multilayer body includes a first side surface and a second side surface spaced apart in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction,each of the first side surface and the second side surface is connected to the obverse surface and the reverse surface,the first aggregate electrode includes a first side electrode portion covering the first side surface, andthe second aggregate electrode includes a second side electrode portion covering the second side surface.

The capacitor device according to clause 4, wherein the first aggregate electrode includes a first obverse electrode portion covering a part of the obverse surface and a first reverse electrode portion covering a part of the reverse surface,the first obverse electrode portion and the first reverse electrode portion are connected to the first side electrode portion,the second aggregate electrode includes a second obverse electrode portion covering a part of the reverse surface and a second reverse electrode portion covering a part of the reverse surface, andthe second obverse electrode portion and the second reverse electrode portion are connected to the second side electrode portion.

The capacitor device according to clause 5, wherein the first conductive member penetrates the insulating cover in the first direction, andthe second conductive member penetrates the insulating cover in the first direction.

The capacitor device according to clause 6, wherein the first conductive member is in contact with the first obverse electrode portion, andthe second conductive member is in contact with the second reverse electrode portion.

The capacitor device according to clause 6, wherein the first conductive member is in contact with the first side electrode portion, andthe second conductive member is in contact with the second side electrode portion.

The capacitor device according to any one of clauses 3 to 8, further comprising:one or more first vias that penetrate the obverse covering portion in the first direction and are in contact with the obverse surface; andone or more second vias that penetrate the reverse covering portion in the first direction and are in contact with the reverse surface.

The capacitor device according to clause 9, wherein the one or more first vias are connected to the first external electrode, andthe one or more second vias are connected to the second external electrode.

The capacitor device according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the capacitor element is a first capacitor element, and the capacitor device further comprises a second capacitor element.

The capacitor device according to clause 11, wherein the first capacitor element and the second capacitor element are electrically connected in parallel.

The capacitor device according to clause 11, wherein the first capacitor element and the second capacitor element are electrically connected in series.

The capacitor device according to any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein a constituent material of the insulating cover and a constituent material of the dielectric layers are different.

The capacitor device according to any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the first external electrode and the second external electrode include a Ni—P layer.

The capacitor device according to any one of clauses 1 to 15, wherein at least one of the plurality of conductor layers, the first external electrode or the second external electrode includes a neck pattern portion where a conduction path is partially narrowed.

A semiconductor device comprising:the capacitor device as set forth in any one of clauses 1 to 16; anda first switching element and a second switching element connected in series to form a bridge,wherein the first external electrode and the second external electrode are electrically connected to opposite ends of the bridge.

The semiconductor device according to clause 17, further comprising:a first mount portion on which the first switching element is mounted; anda second mount portion on which the second switching element is mounted, whereinthe first mount portion and the second mount portion are spaced apart from each other, andthe first mount portion faces at least a part of the capacitor device in the first direction.

The semiconductor device according to clause 17 or 18, wherein the first switching element and the second switching element comprises SiC.

The semiconductor device according to any one of clauses 17 to 19, further comprising a passive element electrically connected in series to the capacitor device.

REFERENCE NUMERALS