Method and apparatus for thermally processing microelectronic workpieces
US7144813B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 2004 |
| Grant date | Dec 5, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S438/908
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for thermally processing a microelectronic workpiece is provided. The apparatus comprises a rotatable carousel assembly configured to support at least one workpiece. A driver is coupled to the carousel assembly and rotates the carousel assembly, moving the workpiece between a loading station, a heating station and a cooling station. The loading, heating and cooling stations are radially positioned and approximately equally spaced about a center axis of the carousel assembly. The heating station includes a heating element and an actuator for moving the heating element into thermal engagement with the workpiece in the heating station. The cooling station includes a cooling element and an actuator for moving the cooling element into thermal engagement with the workpiece in the cooling station. A process fluid distribution manifold for delivering process fluid to the workpieces at each station extends through a central opening in the carousel assembly. A non-oxidizing gas is delivered through the manifold to create an oxygen free environment during the thermal process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.