Thin wafer insert
US8141712B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 27, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S206/832
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A plastic insert is configured to provide support of thin wafers in wafer carriers configured to provide peripheral wafer support. The invention includes the insert, the insert in combination with a wafer carrier, and the methods of supporting the thin wafers as provided by the insert and the wafer carrier. The inserts, in preferred embodiments, utilize tabs that fit into the side wall recesses and have an interference fit in said recesses to secure the insert in place. In preferred embodiments the inserts have a top surface with a plurality of ribs positioned inwardly from the wafer periphery for supporting the wafers with minimal contact. In preferred embodiments the insert has a lower surface having strengthening structure providing rigidity to the insert. The top surface ribs may preferably be oriented parallel to the insertion and withdrawal direction of the wafers and extend upwardly to position the supported wafer in the slot immediately above the slot defined by the recesses in which the tabs are positioned. Thus, the inserts may be inserted into alternate slots in the carrier. The insert, in preferred embodiments may have an h-shape offering an optimal combination of suppo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.