Hotplate Laser Layer Removal for Precise Hob Recess Patterning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for applying layers to hotplates for hobs are imprecise, especially when creating thin lines or recesses, and often result in unintended removal or distortion of layers.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the application of at least one metallic layer and a further layer underneath, followed by precise removal of the metallic layer using laser light, allowing the further layer to be exposed and minimizing impairment to the underlying layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods are used to apply layers and create recesses on hotplates, then the process can be completed with standard equipment, but the precision of layer removal and recess generation is poor, especially for thin lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical etching methods with laser technology for removing metallic layers and creating recesses. The laser beam enables precise material removal through ablation, achieving much higher precision for thin lines and complex patterns compared to mechanical approaches, while eliminating the need for complex mask alignment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the ability to precisely control laser parameters (power, pulse duration, scanning speed) to achieve selective removal of metallic layers. By adjusting these parameters, the process can selectively remove thin metallic layers down to sub-micron thicknesses while preserving underlying dielectric layers, enabling high-precision manufacturing without increasing overall process complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional etching methods are used to create recesses, then the process can be completed with standard equipment, but unintended removal of adjacent layers occurs and recess precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The laser processing method enables highly localized material removal by concentrating energy precisely where needed. The laser beam can be focused to create very narrow ablation zones, removing metallic layers in specific regions while leaving adjacent dielectric layers completely unaffected. This local precision eliminates the harmful side effect of unintended layer removal that plagues conventional etching methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical etching with laser ablation, which provides superior control over material removal. The laser process allows for selective removal of metallic layers through precise energy delivery, creating clean recesses without the collateral damage to adjacent layers that occurs with mechanical or chemical etching methods.
3Manufacturing precision
If masks are used to define recess regions during layer application, then layer patterns can be created, but the recesses can only be implemented very imprecisely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the complete multi-layer structure (dielectric layers, metallic layers, color coatings) first in their entirety, then uses laser processing to create the final recess patterns. This preliminary completion of layer application eliminates the need for complex mask alignment during deposition, as the laser step performs the precise pattern definition afterward with much higher accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mask-based pattern definition with laser-based direct writing. Instead of relying on physical masks that limit precision and require complex alignment, the laser system directly writes the recess patterns with sub-micron precision, eliminating mask-related complexities entirely.
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
This method enhances the precision of layer removal and minimizes damage to the underlying layer, enabling more accurate and complex layer structures on hotplates.
Implementation Method 1
the metallic layer is removed in regions by means of the laser light
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for embodying a hotplate for a hob, at least one metallic layer and a further layer under the metallic layer are formed on an underside of the hotplate. After applying the at least one metallic layer and the further layer, at least one region of the metallic layer is changed by a laser light of a laser beam so that the further layer is recognized when viewing the hob on a topside.