Date of Graduation
1-2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Electrical Engineering
Advisor/Mentor
H. Alan Mantooth
Committee Member
Simon Ang
Second Committee Member
Randy Brown
Keywords
fast parasitic extraction, fast thermal modeling, layout optimization, multi-chip power module, multi-objective optimization, power electronics module
Abstract
This thesis presents the design and implementation of a software tool, referred to as PowerSynth, which is used to synthesize multi-chip power module (MCPM) layouts and also aids in the overall design process. MCPMs allow power electronics systems to achieve higher efficiencies and reduced size, weight, and cost through the compact integration of devices into a single package. MCPM design is highly multidisciplinary which involves electrical, thermal, and mechanical performance considerations. Conventionally, the design process may require several iterations and multiple software modeling tools to create high performance MCPMs. The layout of an MCPM consists of a pattern of metal traces and the placement of components on these traces. The design of an MCPM layout and the selection of materials, dimensions, and components used in an MCPM affect its performance. PowerSynth incorporates thermal and electrical models into a single tool and provides a unified system for designing MCPMs and synthesizing layouts for them. A user is guided through the design process with graphical user interfaces and is able to select from a set of solutions which trade-off thermal and electrical performance. Final MCPM designs can be exported to two different commercial modeling tools for further performance verification or for manufacturing artwork generation.
Citation
Shook, B. W. (2014). The Design and Implementation of a Multi-Chip Power Module Layout Synthesis Tool. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/4817