Automated CVD Pressure and Temperature Control for Atomic Deposition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CVD systems in China lack automation, requiring manual parameter adjustments and resulting in low control precision, which is insufficient for atomic layer deposition processes.

Innovation Solution

An automated CVD apparatus with integrated pressure, temperature, and flow rate systems, utilizing real-time feedback for fully automated control, including a pressure system with empirical valve opening angles and control algorithms, a temperature system with PID control, and an in-situ characterization system for real-time monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual parameter adjustment is used in CVD systems, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision and automation level deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation levelVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into independent modules: pressure control module, temperature control module, flow rate control module, and real-time monitoring module. Each module independently adjusts its parameter, allowing automated control while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Real-time feedback mechanisms are implemented where sensors continuously monitor pressure, temperature, and flow rate, and the control system automatically adjusts parameters based on deviations from target values. This enables high automation level while the feedback loop manages complexity by providing closed-loop control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If manual operation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Manual mechanical adjustment is replaced with an automated control system that uses electronic sensors, controllers, and actuators. The control system processes sensor data and automatically adjusts parameters, achieving high manufacturing precision while the electronic control mechanism manages the complexity replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically changes process parameters (pressure, temperature, flow rate) based on real-time conditions and pre-programmed targets. The control system dynamically adjusts parameters to maintain precise control, achieving high manufacturing precision through automated parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If real-time feedback control is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter control precisionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed as a universal platform that handles multiple functions: pressure control, temperature control, flow rate control, and real-time monitoring. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated control system, the patent achieves high manufacturing precision while managing overall system complexity through multi-functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Achieves precise and efficient control over the deposition process, enabling rapid pressure adjustment, accurate temperature regulation, and real-time sample monitoring, thereby improving production efficiency and precision.

Implementation Method 1

the pressure sensor is configured to acquire a pressure value within the quartz tube in real time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure sensing:

Implementation Method 2

the temperature system includes a temperature sensor, where the temperature sensor is disposed on an outer wall of the quartz tube

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature sensing:

Implementation Method 3

the flow rate system includes a flow meter, and the control system controls the flow meter according to preset flow rate parameters

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlow measurement:

Implementation Method 4

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology is a method that enables the layer-by-layer growth of thin films on a surface of materials using a chemical reaction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical vapor deposition: Chemical Vapour Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS20250361619A1Automated chemical vapor deposition apparatus capable of achieving atomic precision manufacturing
Publication Date: 2025.11.27 ZHEJIANG UNIV
  • US20250361619A1 patent drawing
  • US20250361619A1 patent drawing
  • US20250361619A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An automated chemical vapor deposition apparatus capable of achieving atomic precision manufacturing integrates a pressure system, a temperature system, and a flow rate system, thereby achieving fully automated control throughout the chemical vapor deposition process. In terms of pressure control, an empirical valve opening angle is introduced to rapidly approach the target pressure, greatly improving response time. Moreover, a discontinuous-angle control algorithm is designed to achieve higher control precision even encountered in the chemical vapor deposition process. The apparatus is also provided with an in-situ characterization system, which can achieve real-time monitoring of the sample deposition in the chemical vapor deposition process through corresponding devices. Moreover, the present disclosure designs a furnace chamber travel track. After the deposition process is completed, the furnace chamber can be moved to making a heating zone fully exposed to air, thereby maximizing heat dissipation efficiency and improving overall production efficiency.