Integrated Laser Wavelength Sensor for Semiconductor Wafer Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for detecting and controlling the specific wavelength of a laser beam in semiconductor fabrication are cumbersome and economically disadvantageous, as they require separate devices like current controlling units and optical detectors, making it difficult to simplify equipment and accurately control the wavelength directly on a wafer.

Innovation Solution

A system with a specific wavelength detecting sensor, comprising a metallic laser beam absorbing structural body within a transparent vacuum tube, which absorbs the laser beam and varies its conductive rate to detect and control the wavelength directly on a wafer, using a current sensor connected to a wavelength controlling unit to adjust the beam's wavelength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a hollow cathode lamp with separate current controlling unit and optical detector is used to detect laser wavelength, then wavelength detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength detection accuracyVSAvoidequipment structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the current controlling unit, optical detector, and hollow cathode lamp into a single integrated wavelength detecting sensor. The sensor housing contains all components in one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining wavelength detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated wavelength detecting sensor performs multiple functions within a single device: it controls the current to the hollow cathode lamp, detects the optical signal, and processes the wavelength information. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed in the laser wavelength control system.

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

2Measurement precision

If conventional wavelength detection systems are used, then wavelength measurement is possible, but the equipment requires separate devices and is economically disadvantageous

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength measurement accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple separate devices (current controlling unit, optical detector, hollow cathode lamp) into a single manufactured unit. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate components that need to be produced, assembled, and calibrated, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If separate current controlling units and optical detectors are used, then wavelength detection is achieved, but ease of operation and equipment simplification is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength detection capabilityVSAvoidequipment operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines all wavelength detection and control functions into a single integrated sensor that requires only simple connection to the laser system. The unified design eliminates the need for operators to manage multiple separate devices and their interconnections, significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 allows for accurate and direct detection and control of the laser beam's wavelength on a wafer, simplifying equipment and reducing economic burdens by integrating the detection process within a unitary structure, ensuring stable and precise wavelength control.

Implementation Method 1

a laser beam absorbing structural body for absorbing a specific wavelength of the laser beam emitting toward the stage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption (EM radiation): Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

for absorbing a specific wavelength of the laser beam emitting toward the stage, wherein the stage may be moved in a straight line and/or rotational path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoconductivity: Photoconductivity

Data Source

PatentUS7505494B2System and method for controlling wavelength of a laser beam
Publication Date: 2009.03.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US7505494B2 patent drawing
  • US7505494B2 patent drawing
  • US7505494B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system of controlling a wavelength of a laser beam is provided. The system comprises a stage for supporting a wafer, an optical convergence unit for emitting the laser beam moving in an optical path toward the stage, and a specific wavelength detecting sensor. The specific wavelength detecting sensor is disposed between the optical convergence unit and the stage. It includes a laser beam absorbing structural body for absorbing a specific wavelength of the laser beam emitting toward the stage. A wavelength controlling unit for selectively controlling the wavelength of the laser beam is also provided.