A Virtual Prototyping System for Silicon Carbide Power Modules

This paper describes a holistic design and simulation tool deployed for virtual prototyping of semiconductor power modules. The power module designer proceeds from concept to virtual prototype in a logical and comprehensive flow. Starting with a simple 2D DXF of the Direct Bond Copper (DBC), the module is designed through die selection and placement, layer and material property declaration, electrical connectivity, and external port definition. Automated 3D model generation is carried out through advanced Ansys scripting techniques. Multiple levels of simulation and model generation are executed through Ansys Icepak, Ansys Q3D, and SPICE. The tool has been validated on multiple onsemi Silicon-Carbide (SiC) industrial and automotive traction power modules.