Wafer Breaker Controller Automation for Precision Singulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current semiconductor wafer singulation processes often rely on manual control of parameters like pressure and speed, which can lead to operator errors and inefficiencies, resulting in lower yields and longer processing times.

Innovation Solution

A controller system that receives input signals for singulation parameters, generates output signals to automate the singulation process, and disables manual control when operating in automatic mode, ensuring consistent and precise operation of roller breakers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual control of singulation parameters is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to operator errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual controlVSAvoidsingulation parameter precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated controller that receives input signals and generates output signals to control the singulation apparatus. This substitution eliminates operator errors while maintaining ease of operation through automated interfaces.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where the controller automatically manages singulation parameters based on input signals, reducing reliance on manual operator intervention and ensuring consistent precision without sacrificing operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If manual control of singulation parameters is used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to longer setup and adjustment time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual controlVSAvoidsetup and adjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is pre-configured to receive input signals and automatically generate appropriate output signals for singulation parameters. This preliminary setup eliminates time-consuming manual adjustments during operation, significantly reducing setup and adjustment time while maintaining operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If automated control is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingulation parameter precisionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that can receive various input signals, process them, and generate appropriate output signals for different singulation parameters. This universal design achieves high manufacturing precision while managing complexity through integrated functionality rather than separate complex subsystems.

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

4Productivity

If automated control is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup and adjustment timeVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual adjustment mechanisms with an automated control system that processes signals electronically. This substitution achieves rapid setup and adjustment (improving productivity) while managing complexity through electronic signal processing rather than mechanical complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9576826B2Systems and methods for controlling wafer-breaker devices
Publication Date: 2017.02.21 SKYWORKS SOLUTIONS INC
  • US9576826B2 patent drawing
  • US9576826B2 patent drawing
  • US9576826B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for controlling wafer-breaker devices. In some embodiments, a controller for a semiconductor wafer singulation apparatus can be configured to receive an input signal having information about at least one singulation parameter. The controller can be further configured to generate an output signal based on the input signal to effectuate an operation associated with the singulation parameter. The controller can be further configured to disable manual control of the singulation parameter. In some embodiments, such a controller can be implemented, for example, in a control module, in a kit for modifying an existing singulation apparatus, as an integral part of a singulation apparatus, or any combination thereof.