Mitsuru Sometani

Title: Mitsuru Sometani: Innovator in Silicon Carbide Semiconductor Technology

Introduction

Mitsuru Sometani is a prominent inventor based in Tsukuba, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of semiconductor technology, particularly in silicon carbide devices. With a total of four patents to his name, Sometani's work has advanced the understanding and manufacturing processes of semiconductor devices.

Latest Patents

Sometani's latest patents include a silicon carbide semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing such devices. The silicon carbide semiconductor device features an active region and a termination structure portion located outside of the active region. This device comprises a semiconductor substrate of a second conductivity type, a first semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type, and a second semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type. Additionally, it includes first and second semiconductor regions of respective conductivity types, a gate insulating film, a gate electrode, and both first and second electrodes. During bipolar operation, the device maintains a smaller density among electron and hole densities at the end of the second semiconductor layer in the termination structure portion, which is at most 1×10/cm. The method for manufacturing the semiconductor device involves thermally oxidizing a surface of a to-be-processed base made of silicon carbide to form a silicon dioxide film. This process includes supplying gas containing an oxidation agent, exchanging ambient gas, and lowering the temperature of the to-be-processed base after forming the silicon dioxide film.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Mitsuru Sometani has worked with notable organizations such as Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. and Osaka University. His experience in these institutions has allowed him to refine his expertise in semiconductor technology and contribute to various innovative projects.

Collaborations

Sometani has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Manabu Takei and Heiji Watanabe. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that has led to advancements in semiconductor research and development.

Conclusion

Mitsuru Sometani's contributions to silicon carbide semiconductor technology have established him as a key figure in the field. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his commitment to advancing semiconductor technology.