Patent ID: 7301157
Filing Date: 2007-11-27
Classification: H01J

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for microscopic processing of samples, including: a base rotatable around a rotation axis; multiple tools, including at least one charged particle beam tool that operates with the sample at less than atmospheric pressure, each tool including a working area, the working areas being positioned on a tool circle centered substantially on the rotation axis; a plurality of recesses in the base for holding samples, the recesses positioned along a base circle centered on the rotation axis and equal in diameter to the tool circle such that the base is rotatable to position the multiple recesses within the working areas of the multiple tools; and, a portion of the charged particle beam tool forming with the base a sliding vacuum seal such that a sample in a recess can rotate into a working area of the at least one charged particle beam tool and be maintained in a vacuum while the tool is operating.