Patent ID: 7314401
Filing Date: 2008-01-01
Classification: B24B

Abstract:
1. A method of planarizing a microfeature workpiece, comprising: spacing a carrier head carrying a microfeature workpiece a first distance from a platen carrying a planarizing pad and measuring a first voltage between a carrier sensor associated with the microfeature workpiece and a planarizing sensor associated with the planarizing pad; positioning a surface of the microfeature workpiece against a surface of the planarizing pad; rubbing the surface of the microfeature workpiece against the planarizing pad to planarize the surface of the microfeature workpiece; thereafter, spacing the carrier head the first distance from the platen and measuring a second voltage between the carrier sensor and the planarizing sensor; and comparing the first and second voltages to approximate a change in thickness of the microfeature workpiece resulting from the rubbing.