Ion Implanter Controller for Implantation Profile Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Ion implanters face challenges in accurately tuning ion beams to achieve desired implantation profiles for semiconductor production, leading to inconsistencies in the quality of n-type and p-type extrinsic materials.

Innovation Solution

A substrate-processing apparatus equipped with an ion implanter and a controller that monitors initial implantation profiles and automatically adjusts parameters to match a desired profile using a processor, mass analyzer, and beam manipulators, with the ability to generate and store model scripts for precise ion beam tuning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual tuning of ion beam parameters is performed, then the ion implanter can be operated, but the implantation profile accuracy is insufficient and inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplantation profile accuracyVSAvoidmanual tuning complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically measures the actual implantation profile using detectors and compares it with the desired profile, then self-adjusts the beam parameters without requiring manual intervention. The controller autonomously tunes the ion beam parameters based on the measured deviations, enabling the system to self-correct and achieve accurate implantation profiles consistently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where detectors continuously measure the implantation profile, the controller compares the measured profile with the desired profile, and automatically adjusts the beam parameters based on the deviation. This feedback loop ensures that any deviations from the desired profile are detected and corrected in real-time, maintaining high manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If automatic tuning is implemented to improve implantation profile accuracy, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplantation profile accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment of beam parameters with an automated electronic control system. The controller uses electronic signals to adjust the beam parameters based on detector measurements, substituting the mechanical manual tuning process with an electronic automated system. This reduces the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms while achieving higher precision.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the detectors and the ion beam generation system. It receives measurement data from the detectors, processes the information to determine the required adjustments, and sends control signals to the beam parameters. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the control logic and coordination functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple detectors and control mechanisms are added to achieve desired implantation profile, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplantation profile accuracyVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detectors serve multiple functions: they measure the implantation profile, provide feedback to the controller, and enable automatic adjustment of beam parameters. The same detection system is used for both monitoring and control purposes, reducing the need for separate components. The controller also performs multiple functions including data acquisition, analysis, and parameter adjustment coordination.

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

This solution enhances the accuracy of ion implantation processes, ensuring consistent production of n-type and p-type extrinsic materials by automatically tuning the ion beam to match the desired implantation profile, thereby improving the quality and reliability of semiconductor manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

an ion source energized by the processor and functioning to ionize a gas

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIonization: Ionisation

Implementation Method 2

a mass analyzer providing a magnetic field to select ions of desired species for implantation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

a beam manipulator accepting the ion beam leaving the mass analyzer and used to manipulate a shape of the ion beam by a magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 4

a multipole unit and upper/lower rods to direct desired ions to the substrate using electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric field: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS11462382B2Ion implant apparatus and method of controlling the ion implant apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.10.04 NAN YA TECH
  • US11462382B2 patent drawing
  • US11462382B2 patent drawing
  • US11462382B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a substrate-processing apparatus. The substrate-processing apparatus includes an ion implanter and a controller associated with the ion implanter. The ion implanter is configured to implant ions into a substrate using an ion beam. The controller is configured to monitor an initial implantation profile of the ion beam and tune the ion implanter to provide the ion beam having a desired implantation profile based on the initial implantation profile and the desired implantation profile.