Patent ID: 6110345
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: C25D

Abstract:
A method of plating at least one workpiece in a plating system comprising three interconnected stations, which method comprises the sequential steps of:(a) supplying a workpiece from a workpiece holder to a first station of the system;(b) plating the workpiece in the first station;(c) supplying the plated workpiece to a second station of the system;(d) post-treating the plated workpiece in the second station;(e) supplying the post-treated plated substrate to a third station of the system;(f) determining the value of at least one selected property of the plating in the third station;(g) comparing the determined value(s) with (a) target value(s) or target range(s) of values, utilizing a comparison device adapted for controllably selecting from the following of four alternative steps i.-iv., which one is to be performed on the plated workpiece, based upon the comparison:i. transporting the post-treated, plated workpiece from the third station of the workpiece holder for storing therein if the determined value(s) corresponds with the target value(s) or is (are) within the target range(s) of values;ii. transporting the post-treated, plated workpiece from the third station back to the first station for additional plating thereon if the determined value(s) is (are) below the target value(s) or the target range(s) of values;iii. removing the post-treated, plated workpiece from the system if the determined value(s) indicate(s) that additional plating thereon cannot provide (a) determined value(s) corresponding with the target value(s) or within the target range(s) of values; andiv. adjusting the plating conditions within the first station to provide a later-plated workpiece with (a) determined value(s) which correspond(s) with the target value(s) or is within the target range(s) of values;(h) selecting one of steps i.-iv.; and(i) performing the selected step.