Zhen Chen

Title: Zhen Chen: Innovator in Three-Dimensional Memory Devices

Introduction

Zhen Chen is a prominent inventor based in Yokkaichi, Japan, known for his significant contributions to the field of memory devices. With a total of eight patents to his name, Chen has made remarkable advancements in three-dimensional memory technology.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Chen has developed a three-dimensional memory device that features on-pitch drain select level structures and methods for their fabrication. This innovative device comprises an alternating stack of insulating layers and word-line-level electrically conductive layers situated over a substrate. Additionally, it includes a vertical layer stack that consists of an insulating cap layer, drain select electrodes, and a drain-select-level insulating layer. The design ensures that the drain select electrodes are laterally spaced apart by drain-select-level isolation structures. Furthermore, memory stack structures with vertical semiconductor channels and memory films extend through both the alternating stack and the vertical layer stack. Each vertical semiconductor channel is designed with a word-line-level portion, a connection channel portion, and a drain-select-level portion.

Another notable patent involves a three-dimensional memory device that incorporates drain select isolation structures and on-pitch channels, developed without an etch stop layer. This device features an alternating stack of insulating and electrically conductive layers over a substrate, with memory openings that extend vertically through the stack. Memory opening fill structures include respective memory-level semiconductor channels and films. The device also has drain-select-level gate electrodes and pillar structures that connect the semiconductor channels to the memory-level channels, ensuring efficient operation.

Career Highlights

Zhen Chen has worked with notable companies in the technology sector, including SanDisk Technologies Inc. and SanDisk 3D LLC. His work in these organizations has significantly influenced the development of advanced memory solutions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Chen has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Yao-Sheng Lee and Syo Fukata, contributing to the advancement of memory technology.

Conclusion

Zhen Chen's innovative work in three-dimensional memory devices has established him as a key figure in the field. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing technology and improving memory device efficiency.