Patent ID: 6361417
Filing Date: 2002-03-26
Classification: B24B,B24D

Abstract:
An apparatus for planarizing a microelectronic substrate, comprising:a platen having a support surface; an elongated polishing pad moveable relative to at least a portion of the platen between a first position with a portion of the polishing pad aligned with and facing toward at least a portion of the support surface of the platen and a second position with the portion of the polishing pad out of alignment and facing at least partially away from the support surface of the platen; and an elongated support pad movable with the polishing pad between a first position with a portion of the support pad in contact with the portion of the polishing pad and a second position with the portion of the support pad out of contact with the portion of the polishing pad, wherein the platen includes an elongated flexible member attached to the support pad and movable with the support pad.