Power electronic devices

Design

Supporting both commercial and open-source tools, we are designing and optimizing beyond state-of-the-art power electronic devices from core to termination structures. Typical device architectures are based on:

  • metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET)
  • high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT)
  • bipolar junction transistor (BJT)
  • insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT)
  • power diodes (e.g., SBD, MPS)

Besides general functionality, we are tailoring designs for e.g. desired compromises between high breakdown voltage, low on-resistance and operation robustness.

Modelling

simulations performed using Silvaco TCAD.

We are using complex workflows to model semiconductor fabrication process, typically on feature scale, and subsequently explore device behavior on transistor-level up to circuit level simulations.

Process models include:

  • Ion implantation
  • Dopant diffusion and activation
  • Oxidation
  • Deposition
  • Etching

Device simulations can include:

  • Self-heating effects
  • Circuit co-simulation
  • Degradation effects 

In order to investigate the generation of atomic defects and their impact on device behavior and reliability, atomic-scale modelling capabilities are being developed in included in our modelling workflow.

Characterization and reliability

Under construction. For the moment we are relying on external partners to perform electrical characterization and material scientific investigations.

Infrastructure

  • UNIX-cluster and workstations for advanced layout and modelling workflows.
  • Commercial design and modelling tools are being accessed via membership in EUROPRACTICE.
  • Additional infrastructure is being procured.