Patent ID: 7398014
Filing Date: 2008-07-08
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for performing thermal processing of at least one workpiece having opposing first and second major surfaces surrounded by a peripheral edge which defines a workpiece diameter such that the first and second opposing surfaces cooperate with said peripheral edge to define a peripheral edge region, said apparatus comprising: a processing chamber defining a chamber interior for receiving said workpiece; a heating arrangement in thermal communication with said chamber interior and in a confronting relationship with said first major surface for emitting an irradiance energy such that a first portion of the irradiance energy is directly incident upon said first major surface of the workpiece and a second portion of the irradiance energy is directed such that, at least initially, the second portion would miss the first major surface; and a reflector supported in said chamber interior having an at least generally annular configuration thereby defining a central opening with an opening width, for any given measurement thereof, that is greater than said workpiece diameter, and said reflector is arranged, at least generally, in a concentric relationship with said peripheral edge and configured for reflecting at least some of said second portion of the irradiance energy onto the peripheral edge region of said workpiece.