Substrate processing apparatus with independently configurable integral load locks
US6719517B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 13, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S414/139
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A substrate processing apparatus comprising a frame, at least one processing module, and a substrate transport apparatus. The frame defines a first chamber with outer substrate transport openings for transporting substrates between the first chamber and an exterior of the frame. The processing module is connected to the exterior of the frame. The processing module communicates with the first chamber of the frame through at least one of the outer openings. The substrate transport apparatus is connected to the frame for transporting substrates between the first chamber and the processing module exterior to the frame. The frame has a second integral chamber formed therein. The second integral chamber communicates with the first chamber through an internal substrate transport opening of the frame. The second integral chamber of the frame has a selectable configuration from a number of predetermined configurations. The configuration of the second integral chamber to the frame is selected in accordance with a predetermined characteristic of the substrate processing apparatus.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.