A Phase-Leg Power Module Packaged With Optimized Planar Interconnections and Integrated Double-Sided Cooling

A multilayer planar interconnection structure was used for the packaging of liquid-cooled automotive power modules. The power semiconductor switch dies are sandwiched between two symmetric substrates, providing planar electrical interconnections and insulation. Two minicoolers are directly bonded to the outside of these substrates, allowing double-sided, integrated cooling. The power switch dies are orientated in a face-up/face-down 3-D interconnection configuration to form a phase leg. The bonding areas between the dies and substrates, and the substrates and coolers are designed to use identical materials and are formed in one heating process. A special packaging process has been developed so that high-efficiency production can be implemented. Incorporating high-efficiency cooling and low-loss electrical interconnections allows dramatic improvements in systems' cost, and electrical conversion efficiency. These features are demonstrated in a planar bond-packaged prototype of a 200 A/1200 V phase-leg power module made of silicon (Si) insulated gate bipolar transistor and PiN diodes.