Patent ID: 7288177
Filing Date: 2007-10-30
Classification: C25D,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A method of electroplating a workpiece, comprising the steps: immersing an anode and a cathode in a solution; using the cathode to support the workpiece; positioning a selective shield/material flow assembly between the anode and the cathode, said shield/material flow assembly forming a multitude of openings having adjustable sizes; generating an electric field emanating from the anode to the cathode, to generate a corresponding current to deposit an electroplating material on the workpiece during an electroplating process; adjusting the sizes of the adjustable openings, during the electroplating process, for selectively and controllably adjusting the amount of electric flux passing through the selective shield/material flow assembly and the distribution of the electroplating material across the workpiece; wherein the selective shield/material flow assembly includes first and second selective shield/material flow mechanisms, and the adjusting step includes the step of moving the first and second selective shield/material flow mechanisms relative to each other to adjust the sizes of the opening of the selective shield/material flow assembly; and wherein the step of moving the first and second selective shield/material flow mechanisms also adjusts the location of the opening of the selective shield/material flow shield assembly.