SUPPORT UNIT AND SUBSTRATE TREATING APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME

The present invention provides a substrate treating apparatus, including: a treatment container having a treatment space therein; a support unit for supporting and rotating the substrate in the treatment space; and a liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid onto the substrate, in which wherein the support unit includes: a body on which the substrate is seated; and a support shaft coupled to the body, and an upper surface of the body is provided with a central portion including a center of the body and an edge portion surrounding the central portion, and a vacuum hole is formed in the central portion, and a groove is formed in the edge portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0094415 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on Jul. 19, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a support unit and an apparatus for treating a substrate including the same, and more particularly, to a substrate treating apparatus for treating a substrate by supplying a liquid to a rotating substrate, and a support unit used therein.

BACKGROUND ART

In order to manufacture a semiconductor device, various processes, such as cleaning, deposition, photography, etching, and ion implantation, are performed. Among these processes, the photography process includes a coating process of forming a film by applying a photosensitive liquid, such as a photoresist, to a surface of a substrate, an exposure process of transferring a circuit pattern to a film formed on the substrate, and a developing process for selectively removing a film formed on a substrate in a region on which the exposure treatment has been performed and an opposite region thereof.

In the recent trend of multi-layering, fine patterning, and larger substrates, a warpage phenomenon is induced in the substrate. For example, in the etching process, a difference in a Critical Dimension (CD) of a pattern is induced due to mutual attraction between impurities or stacked materials induced while etching a pattern target film having different etch rates, and the patterns are tilted to cause warpage of the substrate. As another example, when the semiconductor substrate is multi-layered, a pressure difference is generated between the respective layers, thereby causing warpage of one side of the substrate. In addition, warpage occurs in the substrate under the influence of various pretreatment processes, such as film formation on the substrate. The warpage of the substrate increases the process defect rate when a subsequent unit process is performed. In particular, a problem arises when a coating process and a developing process of supplying a treatment liquid onto the substrate while rotating the substrate supported by a support unit are performed.

When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit, a phenomenon that the vicinity of an edge of a body of the support unit and the substrate are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. By forming the space between the substrate and the edge region of the body of the support unit, an external air flow is introduced into the space. When the support unit adsorbs and fixes the substrate in a vacuum adsorption method, the intensity of the negative pressure is relatively large at the center of the support unit, and the intensity of the negative pressure is relatively small at the edge of the support unit. For this reason, the adsorption and fixation of the substrate by the support unit is not smooth. Furthermore, due to the deviation of the relative pressure between the central portion and the edge portion of the substrate, a problem of strengthening the warpage of the substrate is caused. This prevents the treatment liquid from being uniformly coated on the substrate in the coating process and the developing process.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made in an effort to provide a support unit capable of minimizing an influence of external airflow and a substrate treating apparatus including the same.

The present invention has also been made in an effort to provide a support unit capable of minimizing variations in pressure transmitted to a substrate seated on the support unit, and a substrate treating apparatus including the same.

The object of the present invention is not limited thereto, and other objects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a substrate treating apparatus, including: a treatment container having a treatment space therein; a support unit for supporting and rotating the substrate in the treatment space; and a liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid onto the substrate, in which wherein the support unit includes: a body on which the substrate is seated; and a support shaft coupled to the body, and an upper surface of the body is provided with a central portion including a center of the body and an edge portion surrounding the central portion, and a vacuum hole is formed in the central portion, and a groove is formed in the edge portion.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the groove may be provided in a slit shape.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the slit may be provided in a ring shape along a circumference of the edge portion.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the slit may be provided with a first side surface and a second side surface located farther from the center of the body than the first side surface when viewed from a cross-section cut in a width direction of the slit.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the first side surface and the second side surface may be formed parallel to an axial direction of the support shaft.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the first side surface may be formed parallel to an axial direction of the support shaft, and the second side surface may be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft.

According to the exemplary embodiment, in the slit, a protrusion protruding in a direction away from the center may be formed on an upper portion of the first side surface.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the upper surface may be provided with a smaller area than the substrate when viewed from the top, an upper surface of the central portion may be formed lower than an upper surface of the edge portion, a support protrusion for supporting the substrate may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion, and the upper surface of the edge portion and an upper end of the support protrusion may be provided at the same height.

According to the exemplary embodiment, a portion surrounded by the edge portion may be provided as a decompression space in which the substrate is adsorbed by the vacuum hole, and an inner space of the groove may be provided as an airflow trapping space in which an external airflow introduced between the substrate and the upper surface of the edge portion stays.

According to the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of the slits may be provided while being spaced apart from each other in a direction to the central portion in the edge portion, and the plurality of slits may be provided in different shapes from each other.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the slit may have any one of a first shape in which the first side surface and the second side surface are formed parallel to an axial direction of the support shaft; a second shape in which the first side surface is formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft, and the second side is inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft; a third shape in which the first side surface and the second side surface are formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft, and a protrusion that protrudes in a direction away from the center of the support shaft and is provided on an upper end of the first side surface is further formed; and a fourth shape in which the first side surface is formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft, and the second side surface is formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft, and a protrusion that protrudes in a direction away from the center of the support shaft and is provided on the upper end of the first side surface is further formed.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a support unit for supporting and rotating a substrate, the support unit including: a body on which a substrate is seated; and a support shaft coupled to the body and formed with a vacuum flow path therein, in which an upper surface of the body is provided with a central portion including a center of the body and an edge portion surrounding the central portion, a vacuum hole communicating with one end of the vacuum flow path is formed in a center of the central portion, and a ring-shaped slit is formed along a circumference of the edge portion, and the slit is provided with a first side surface and a second side surface located farther from the center of the body than the first side surface when viewed from a cross-section cut in a width direction of the slit.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the first side surface and the second side surface may be formed parallel to an axial direction of the support shaft.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the first side surface may be formed parallel to an axial direction of the support shaft, and the second side surface may be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft.

According to the exemplary embodiment, in the slit, a protrusion protruding in a direction away from the center may be formed on an upper portion of the first side surface.

According to the exemplary embodiment, the upper surface may be provided with a smaller area than the substrate when viewed from the top.

According to the exemplary embodiment, an upper surface of the central portion may be formed lower than an upper surface of the edge portion and provided with a support protrusion supporting the substrate, and the upper surface of the edge portion and an upper end of the support protrusion may be provided at the same height with respect to the ground.

According to the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of the slits may be provided while being spaced apart from each other in a direction to the central portion in the edge portion, and the plurality of slits may be provided in different shapes from each other.

Still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a substrate treating apparatus, including: a housing having an inner space; a treatment container positioned within the inner space and having a treatment space; a support unit for supporting and rotating the substrate in the treatment space; a liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid onto the substrate; and an airflow supply unit coupled to an upper surface of the housing and supplying gas forming a downward airflow to the inner space, in which the support unit includes: a body on which a substrate is seated; and a support shaft coupled to the body and formed with a vacuum flow path therein, and an upper surface of the body is provided with a central portion including a center of the body and an edge portion surrounding the central portion, a vacuum hole communicating with one end of the vacuum flow path is formed in a center of the central portion, an upper surface of the central portion is formed lower than an upper surface of the edge portion and is provided with a support protrusion supporting the substrate, a ring-shaped slit is formed along a circumference of the edge portion, and the slit is provided with a first side surface and a second side surface located farther from the center of the body than the first side surface when viewed from a cross-section cut in a width direction of the slit.

According to the exemplary embodiment, in the slit, a protrusion protruding in a direction away from the center may be formed on an upper portion of the first side surface.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to improve efficiency of a liquid treatment process.

Further, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to minimize the influence of the external air flow transmitted to the support unit.

Further, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to minimize the deviation of the pressure transmitted to the substrate seated on the support unit.

Further, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to minimize deterioration of the warped state of the substrate when the substrate in the warped state is supported on the support unit.

The effect of the present invention is not limited to the foregoing effects, and those skilled in the art may clearly understand non-mentioned effects from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be modified in various forms, and the scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by the exemplary embodiment described below. The present exemplary embodiment is provided to more completely explain the present invention to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the shapes of components in the drawings are exaggerated to emphasize a clearer description.

Hereinafter, an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference toFIGS.1to17. In the following exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for coating a photoresist on a substrate and developing the substrate after exposure will be described as an example of a substrate treating apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be applied to various types of apparatuses for treating a substrate by supplying a liquid to a rotating substrate. For example, the substrate treating apparatus may be an apparatus that performs a process of removing foreign substances from the substrate by supplying a cleaning liquid to the substrate, or removing a thin film from the substrate by supplying a chemical liquid to the substrate.

FIG.1is a perspective view schematically illustrating a substrate treating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, andFIG.2is a front view of the substrate treating apparatus illustrating a coating block or a he developing block ofFIG.1.FIG.3is a top plan view of the substrate treating apparatus ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIGS.1to3, a substrate treating apparatus1includes an index module10, a treating module20, and an interface module30. According to the exemplary embodiment, the index module10, the treating module20, and the interface module30are sequentially arranged in a line. Hereinafter, a direction in which the index module10, the treating module20, and the interface module30are arranged is defined as a first direction2, a direction perpendicular to the first direction2when viewed from the top is defined as a second direction4, and a direction perpendicular to the plane including both the first direction2and the second direction4is defined as a third direction6.

The index module10transfers a substrate W to the treating module20which treats a substrate W from a container F in which the substrate W is accommodated. The index module10accommodates the substrate W that has been completely treated in the treating module20into the container F. A longitudinal direction of the index module10is the second direction4. The index module10includes a load port110and an index frame140.

The container F in which the substrate W is accommodated is seated in the load port120. The load port120is located at an opposite side of the treating module20based on the index module140. A plurality of load ports120may be provided, and the plurality of load ports120may be arranged in a line along the second direction4. The number of load ports120may be increased or decreased according to process efficiency of the treating module20and a condition of foot print, and the like.

A plurality of slots (not illustrated) for accommodating the plurality of substrates W in a state where the substrates W are arranged horizontally with respect to the ground may be formed in the container F. As the container F, a sealing container, such as a Front Opening Unified Pod (FOUP), may be used. The container F may be placed on the load port120by a transfer means (not illustrated), such as an overhead transfer, an overhead conveyor, or an automatic guided vehicle, or an operator.

An index rail142and an index robot144are provided inside the index frame140. The index rail142is provided inside the index frame140so that a longitudinal direction is the second direction4. The index robot144may transfer the substrate W. The index robot144may transfer the substrate W between the index module10and a buffer chamber240to be described later. The index robot144may include an index hand1440. The substrate W may be placed on the index hand1440. The index hand1440may include an index base1442having an annular ring shape in which a part of a circumference is symmetrically bent, and an index support part1444that moves the index base1442. The configuration of the index hand1440is the same as or similar to that of a transfer hand2240, which will be described later. The index hand1440may be provided to be movable in the second direction4on the index rail142. Therefore, the index hand1440is movable forward and backward along the index rail142. Further, the index hand1440may be provided to be rotatable about the third direction6and be movable in the third direction6.

The treating module20may receive the substrate W accommodated in the container F and perform a coating process and a developing process on the substrate W. The treating module20includes a coating block20aand a developing block20b. The coating block20aperforms a coating process on the substrate W. The developing block20bperforms a developing process on the substrate W. A plurality of coating blocks20aare provided, and the coating blocks20aare provided to be stacked on each other. A plurality of developing blocks20bare provided, and the developing blocks20bare provided to be stacked on each other. According to the exemplary embodiment ofFIG.3, two coating blocks20aare provided, and two developing blocks20bare provided. The coating blocks20amay be disposed below the developing blocks20b. According to an example, the two coating blocks20aperform the same process, and may be provided in the same structure. Also, the two developing blocks20bmay perform the same process as each other, and may be provided in the same structure.

Referring toFIG.3, the coating block20aincludes a transfer chamber220, the buffer chamber240, a heat treating chamber260, and a liquid treating chamber280. The transfer chamber220provides spaces for transferring the substrate W between the buffer chamber240and the heat treating chamber260, between the buffer chamber240and the liquid treating chamber280, and between the heat treating chamber260and the liquid treating chamber280. The buffer chamber240provides a space in which the substrate W loaded into the coating block20aand the substrate W unloaded from the coating block20atemporarily stay. The heat treating chamber260performs a heat treatment process on the substrate W. The heat treatment process may include a cooling process and a heating process. The liquid treating chamber260supplies a liquid on the substrate W to form a liquid film. The liquid film may be a photoresist film or an antireflection film.

A longitudinal direction of the transfer chamber220may be provided in the first direction2. The transfer chamber220is provided with a guide rail222and a transfer robot224. The guide rail222is provided in the transfer chamber220so that a longitudinal direction is the first direction2. The transfer robot244may be provided to be linearly movable in the first direction2on the guide rail222. The transfer robot224transfers the substrate between the buffer chamber240and the heat treating chamber260, between the buffer chamber240and the liquid treating chamber280, and between the heat treating chamber260and the liquid treating chamber280.

According to an example, the transfer robot224has a transfer hand2240on which the substrate W is placed. The transfer hand2240may be provided to be movable forward and backward, rotatable about the third direction6, and movable along the third direction6.

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating an example of the transfer hand provided in the transfer chamber ofFIG.3. Referring toFIG.4, the transfer hand2240has a base2242and a support protrusion2244. The base2242may have an annular ring shape in which a portion of the circumference is bent. The base2242may have a ring shape in which a portion of the circumference is symmetrically bent. The base2242has an inner diameter larger than a diameter of the substrate W. The support protrusion2244extends inwardly from the base2242. A plurality of support protrusions2244are provided, and supports an edge region of the substrate W. According to an example, four support protrusions2244may be provided at equal intervals.

Referring back toFIGS.2and3, a plurality of buffer chambers240is provided. Some of the buffer chambers240are disposed between the index module10and the transfer chamber220. Hereinafter, the foregoing buffer chambers are referred to as front buffers242. A plurality of front buffers242are provided, and are located to be stacked on each other in the vertical direction. Another portion of the buffer chambers240is disposed between the transfer chamber220and the interface module30. Hereinafter, the foregoing buffer chambers are referred to as rear buffers244. A plurality of rear buffers244are provided, and are located to be stacked on each other in the vertical direction. Each of the front buffers242and the rear buffers244temporarily stores a plurality of substrates W. The substrate W stored in the front buffer242is loaded or unloaded by the index robot144and the transfer robot224. The substrate W stored in the rear buffer244is loaded or unloaded by the transfer robot224and a first robot3820which is to be described later.

Buffer robots2420and2440may be provided on one side of the buffer chamber240. The buffer robots2420and2440may include a front buffer robot2420and a rear buffer robot2440. The front buffer robot2420may be provided on one side of the front buffer242. The rear buffer robot2440may be provided on one side of the rear buffer244. The present invention is not limited thereto, and the buffer robots2420and2440may be provided on both sides of the buffer chamber240.

The front buffer robot2420may transfer the substrate W between the front buffers242. The front buffer robot2420may include a front buffer hand2422. The front buffer hand2422may be moved up and down along the third direction6. The front buffer hand2422may be rotated. The front buffer hand2422may transfer the substrate W. The front buffer hand2422may load or unload the substrate W to pins2486provided on a support plate2482which is to be described later. The rear buffer robot2440may transfer the substrate W between the rear buffers244. The rear buffer robot2440may include a rear end buffer hand2442. The configuration of the rear buffer hand2442is the same as or similar to that of the front buffer hand2422. Therefore, a description of the rear buffer hand2442will be omitted.

FIG.5is a top plan view schematically illustrating an example of a heat treating chamber ofFIG.3, andFIG.6is a front view of the heat treating chamber ofFIG.5. Referring toFIGS.5and6, a plurality of heat treating chambers260are provided. The heat treatment chambers260are disposed along the first direction2. The heat treatment chambers260are located at one side of the transfer chamber220. The heat treatment chamber260includes a housing2620, a cooling unit2640, a heating unit2660, and a transfer plate2680.

The housing2620is provided in the shape of a generally rectangular parallelepiped. The housing2620provides space therein. An entrance (not illustrated) through which the substrate W enters and exits is formed on a side wall of the housing2620. The entrance may remain open. A door (not illustrated) may be provided to selectively open and close the entrance.

A cooling unit2640, a heating unit2660, and a conveying plate2680are provided in the inner space of the housing2620. The cooling unit2640and the heating unit2660are provided side by side along the second direction4. According to an example, the cooling unit2640may be located relatively closer to the transfer chamber220than the heating unit2660. The cooling unit2640includes a cooling plate2642. The cooling plate2642may have a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. The cooling plate2642is provided with a cooling member2644. According to an example, the cooling member2644is formed inside the cooling plate2642and may be provided as a flow path through which a cooling fluid flows.

The heating unit2660provided in some of the heat treating chambers260may supply gas while heating the substrate W to improve the adhesion rate of the photoresist to the substrate W. According to an example, the gas may be hexamethyldisilane (HMDS) gas.

The heating unit2660includes a heating plate2661, a heater2663, a cover2665, and a driver2667. The heating plate2661has a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. The heating plate2661has a larger diameter than that of the substrate W. A heater2663is installed in the heating plate2661. The heater3233may be provided as a heating resistor to which current is applied.

The heating plate2661is provided with lift pins2669drivable in the vertical direction along the third direction6. The lift pin2669receives the substrate W from a transfer means outside the heating unit2660and places the received substrate W down on the heating plate2661or lifts the substrate W from the heating plate2661and hands over the substrate W to the transfer means outside the heating unit2660. According to an example, three lift pins2669may be provided.

The cover2665has a space with an open lower portion therein. The cover2665is located above the heating plate2661and is moved up and down by the driver2667. A space formed by the cover2665and the heating plate2661according to the movement of the cover2665is provided as a heating space for heating the substrate W.

The transport plate2680is provided in a substantially disk shape and has a diameter corresponding to that of the substrate W. A notch2682is formed at the edge of the transfer plate2680. The notches2682are provided in a number corresponding to that of the support protrusions2244formed on the transfer hand2240of the transfer robot224, and are formed at positions corresponding to those of the support protrusions2244. When the upper and lower positions of the transfer hand2240and the transfer plate2680are changed in positions where the transfer hand2240and the transfer plate2680are vertically aligned, the substrate W is transferred between the transfer hand2240and the transfer plate2680. The transfer plate2680is mounted on the guide rail2692, and is movable between a first area2696and a second area2698along the guide rail2692by the driver2694.

A plurality of slit-shaped guide grooves2680is provided in the transfer plate2684. The guide groove2684extends from the end of the transfer plate2680to the inside of the transfer plate2680. A longitudinal direction of the guide grooves2684is provided along the second direction4, and the guide grooves2684are located while being spaced apart from each other along the first direction2. The guide groove2684prevents the transfer plate2680and the lift pins2669from interfering with each other when the substrate W is transferred between the transfer plate2680and the heating unit2660.

Cooling of the substrate W is performed in a state in which the transfer plate2680on which the substrate W is placed is in contact with the cooling plate2642. The transfer plate2680is made of a material having high thermal conductivity so that heat transfer is well performed between the cooling plate2642and the substrate W. According to an example, the transfer plate2680may be made of a metal material.

Referring back toFIGS.2and3, a plurality of liquid treating chambers280are provided. Some of the liquid treating chambers360may be provided to be stacked on each other. The liquid treating chambers360are disposed at one side of the transfer chamber220. The liquid treating chambers280are arranged side by side along the first direction2. Some of the liquid treating chambers360are provided at positions adjacent to the index module10. Hereinafter, the liquid treating chambers360are referred to as front liquid treating chambers280. Another some of the liquid treating chambers360are provided at positions adjacent to the interface module30. Hereinafter, the liquid treating chambers360are referred to as rear liquid treating chambers280.

The front liquid treating chamber282applies a first liquid on the substrate W, and the rear liquid treating chamber284applies a second liquid on the substrate W. The first liquid and the second liquid may be different types of liquid. According to the exemplary embodiment, the first liquid is an anti-reflection film, and the second liquid is a photoresist. The photoresist may be applied on the substrate W on which the anti-reflection film is applied. Optionally, the first liquid may be a photoresist, and the second liquid may be an anti-reflection film. In this case, the anti-reflection film may be applied on the substrate W on which the photoresist is applied. Optionally, the first liquid and the second liquid are the same type of liquid, and both may be a photoresist.

FIG.7is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the liquid treating chamber ofFIG.3. Referring toFIG.7, the liquid treating chamber280includes a housing2810, a treatment container2820, a support unit2830, and a liquid supply unit2850.

The housing2810provides space therein. The housing2810is provided in a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. An opening (not illustrated) may be formed at one side of the housing2810. The opening functions as an entrance through which the substrate W is loaded into the internal space or the substrate W is unloaded from the internal space. In addition, in order to selectively seal the entrance, a door (not illustrated) may be installed in an area adjacent to the entrance. The door may seal the inner space by blocking the entrance while the treatment process is performed on the substrate W loaded into the inner space. The treatment container2820, the support unit2830, and the liquid supply unit2640are disposed within the housing2810.

The treatment container2820may have a treatment space with an open top. The treatment container2820may be a bowl having a treatment space. The inner space may be provided to surround the treatment space. The treatment container2820may have a cup shape with an open top. The treatment space of the treatment container2820may be a space in which the support unit2830, which will be described later, supports and rotates the substrate W. The treatment space may be a space in which the liquid supply unit2850supplies a fluid to treat the substrate W.

According to one example, the treatment container2820may include an inner cup2822and an outer cup2824. The outer cup2824is provided to surround a circumference of the support unit2830, and the inner cup2822may be located inside the outer cup2824. Each of the inner cup2822and the outer cup2824may have an annular ring shape when viewed from the top. A space between the inner cup2822and the outer cup2824may serve as a recovery path through which the fluid introduced into the treatment space is recovered.

The inner cup2822may be provided in a shape surrounding a support shaft2834of the support unit2830, which is to be described later, when viewed from the top. For example, the inner cup2822may be provided in a circular plate shape surrounding the support shaft2834when viewed from the top. When viewed from the top, the inner cup2822may be positioned to overlap an exhaust line2860to be described later coupled to the housing2810.

The inner cup2822may have an inner portion and an outer portion. Upper surfaces of the inner portion and the outer portion may be provided to have different angles from each other based on a virtual horizontal line. For example, when viewed from the top, the inner portion may be located to overlap a body2832of the support unit2831which is to be described later. The inner portion may be located opposite the support shaft2832. The inner portion may have an upper surface inclined upwardly as it goes away from the support shaft2832, and the outer portion may extend outwardly from the inner portion. The outer portion may face a downwardly inclined direction as the upper surface moves away from the support shaft2832. The upper end of the inner portion may coincide with the side end of the substrate W in the vertical direction. According to an example, the point where the outer portion and the inner portion meet may be a position lower than the upper end of the inner portion. The point where the inner portion and the outer portion meet each other may be provided to be round. The outer portion may be combined with the outer cup2824to form a recovery path through which a treatment medium is recovered.

The outer cup2824may be provided in a cup shape surrounding the support unit2830and the inner cup2822. The outer cup2824may include a bottom portion2824a, a side portion2824b, and an inclined portion2824c.

The bottom portion2824amay have a circular plate shape having a hollow. A recovery line2870may be connected to the bottom portion2824a. The recovery line2870may recover the treatment medium supplied onto the substrate W. The treatment medium recovered by the recovery line2870may be reused by an external recycling system (not illustrated).

The side portion2824bmay have an annular ring shape surrounding the support unit2830. The side portion2824bmay extend in a direction perpendicular to the side end of the bottom portion2824a. The side portion2824bmay extend upwardly from bottom portion2824a.

The inclined portion2824cmay extend from an upper end of the side portion2824btoward the central axis of the outer cup2824. An inner surface of the inclined portion2824cmay be provided to be inclined upwardly to approach the support unit2830. The inclined portion2824cmay be provided to have a ring shape. During the treatment processing of the substrate W, the upper end of the inclined portion2824cmay be located higher than the substrate W supported by the support unit2830.

FIG.8is a cut perspective view schematically illustrating an example of the support unit ofFIG.7. Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the support unit of the present invention will be described in detail with reference toFIG.8.

The support unit2830supports the substrate W in the treatment space and rotates the substrate W. The support unit2830may be a chuck that supports and rotates the substrate W. The support unit2830may include a body2831, a support shaft2832, and a driving unit2833. The body2831may have an upper surface on which the substrate W is seated. The upper surface of the body2831is provided in a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. The upper surface of the body2831is provided to have a smaller diameter than the substrate W. For example, when viewed from the top, the upper surface of the body2831may be provided in a smaller area than the upper surface of the substrate W.

The upper surface of the body2831may be provided with a central portion A1and an edge portion A2. The central portion A1may be a region including the center of the body2831. The edge portion A2may be a region surrounding the central portion A1. For example, the central portion A1may be a region including a region in which a support protrusion2836, which will be described later, is formed. For example, the edge portion A2may be a region from the central portion A1to the end of the body2831.

The upper surface of the central portion A1may be formed lower than the upper surface of the edge portion A2. For example, the central portion A1may be formed to be stepped with respect to the edge portion A2. A vacuum hole2835is formed in the central portion A1. The vacuum hole2835may adsorb and fix the substrate W in a vacuum adsorption method. The central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be provided as a decompression space into which the substrate W is adsorbed by the vacuum hole2835. The support protrusion2836for supporting the substrate W may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion A1. An upper end of the support protrusion2836may be formed to be round. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may contact the lower surface of the substrate W to support the substrate W. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may be provided at the same height as the upper surface of the edge portion A2. A plurality of support protrusions2836may be provided.

The edge portion A2provides a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. The lower surface of the substrate W may be in contact with the upper surface of the edge portion A2, so that the substrate W may be supported. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W is supported by the support protrusion2836and the edge portion A2, and the substrate W may be adsorbed and supported due to a depression space formed in the central portion A1.

A groove3000is formed in the edge portion A2. The groove3000may be provided in a slit shape. The slit3000may be provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2. When viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction of the slit3000, the slit3000is provided with a first side surface3100and a second side surface3200. The second side surface3200is located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100. For example, the first side surface3100may be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200may be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first side surface3100may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832to be described later. The second side surface3200may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. For example, the bottom surface3300may be a surface connecting the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200. When the slit3000is viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction, the slit3000may be provided in a shape in which the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, and the bottom surface3300are combined to provide an open upper surface with a rectangular shape. An inner space of the slit3000is provided as an airflow trapping space in which the external airflow introduced between the substrate W and the upper surface of the edge A2stays. For example, the external airflow may stay in the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, the bottom surface3300, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge portion A2.

FIG.9is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which an external airflow flows within the support unit ofFIG.7when viewed from the front.FIG.10is a diagram schematically illustrating an enlarged state of part A ofFIG.9. Hereinafter, a state in which an external airflow flows within the support unit will be described in detail with reference toFIGS.9and10.

An airflow flows inside the housing2810. For example, an external airflow introduced by an airflow supply unit2880to be described later flows inside the housing2810. When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, the lower surface of the substrate W is not in close contact with the edge portion A2. A space spaced apart between the edge portion A2and the substrate W is generated. Accordingly, the airflow formed in the housing2810may be introduced into the spaced space. The airflow introduced into the spaced space flows into the airflow trapping space provided in the slit3000formed in the edge portion A2. The airflow forms a vortex by colliding with the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, and the lower surface of the substrate W in the trapping space. The subsequent airflow re-introduced into the spaced space by the formed vortex collides again. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the subsequent airflows introduced into the spaced space decreases. Due to this, it is possible to minimize the reaching of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the central portion A1. By minimizing the airflow reaching the central portion A1, it is possible to minimize the pressure deviation between the pressure in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W supported by the support protrusion2836formed in the central portion A1and the pressure in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W supported while being seated at the edge portion A2.

Furthermore, a depression member2834provides a negative pressure to the decompression space through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the vicinity of the center of the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. Accordingly, the vicinity of the center of the substrate W is provided with a relatively high negative pressure compared to the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. When the substrate W is seated on the support unit2830in the warped state and an external airflow is introduced into the spaced space, the airflow collides with the lower surface of the substrate W in the spaced space, so that force acts in the upper direction with respect to the substrate W. Force is applied in the downward direction in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W, and force is applied in the upward direction in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, by forming the slit3000in the edge portion A2, it is possible to minimize the introduction of the external air flow into the central portion A1. The difference in pressure between the vicinity of the center of the substrate W and the vicinity of the edge of the substrate may be minimized Accordingly, when the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, it is possible to minimize the more deterioration of the warped state of the substrate W.

The support shaft2832is coupled with the body2831. The support shaft2832may be coupled to a lower surface of the body2831. The support shaft2832may be provided such that the longitudinal direction thereof heads the vertical direction. The support shaft2832is provided to be rotatable by receiving power from the driving unit2833. The support shaft2832rotates by rotation of the driving unit2833to rotate the body2831. The driving unit2833may vary the rotation speed of the support shaft2832. The driving unit2833may be a motor providing driving force. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be variously modified to a publicly known device providing driving force. A vacuum flow path2837may be formed inside the support shaft2832. One end of the vacuum flow path2837may communicate with the vacuum hole2835. The other end of the vacuum flow path2837may be connected to the decompression member2834. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure into the vacuum flow path2837. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W corresponding to the central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be adsorbed.

Referring back toFIG.7, a lifting unit2840is provided in the liquid treating chamber280. The lifting unit2840is disposed within the housing2810. The lifting unit2840adjusts the relative height between the treatment container2820and the support unit2830. The lifting unit2840may include a first lifting unit2842, a second lifting unit2844, and a third lifting unit2846. The first lifting unit2842may be coupled to the inner cup2822of the treatment container2820. The first lifting unit2842linearly moves the inner cup2822in the third direction6. The second lifting unit2842may be coupled to the outer cup2824of the treatment container2820. The second lifting unit2844linearly moves the outer cup2824in the third direction6. The third lifting unit2846may be coupled to the support unit2830. The third lifting unit2846linearly moves the support unit2830in the third direction6. Each of the first lifting unit2842, the second lifting unit2844, and the third lifting unit2846may be controlled by a controller3000, which will be described later.

The liquid supply unit2850may supply a liquid to the substrate W supported by the support unit2830. The liquid supply unit2850may supply a liquid to the substrate W supported by the support unit2830. The liquid supplied by the liquid supply unit2850to the substrate W may be a coating liquid. For example, the coating liquid may be a photosensitive liquid, such as a photoresist (PR). Also, the liquid supply unit2850may supply a pre-wet liquid to the substrate W supported by the support unit2830. The pre-wet liquid supplied by the liquid supply unit2850to the substrate W may be a liquid capable of changing the surface properties of the substrate W. For example, the pre-wet liquid may be a liquid capable of changing the surface properties of the substrate W to hydrophobic properties. For example, the pre-wet liquid may be a thinner

The liquid supply unit2850may include a free wet nozzle2851, a liquid nozzle2853, an arm2855, a rail2857, and a driver2859. The pre-wet nozzle2851may supply the pre-wet liquid to the substrate W. The pre-wet nozzle2851may supply the pre-wet liquid to the substrate W in a stream manner The treatment liquid nozzle2853may supply the treatment liquid to the substrate W. The treatment liquid nozzle2853may be a coating liquid nozzle that supplies the coating liquid, such as a photoresist. The treatment liquid nozzle2853may supply the treatment liquid to the substrate W in a stream manner

The arm2855may support the free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853. The free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853may be installed at one end of the arm2855. The free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853may be respectively installed on the lower surface of one end of the arm2855. When viewed from the top, the free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853may be arranged in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rail2857to be described later. The other end of the arm2855may be coupled to the driver2859.

The arm2855may be moved by the driver2859. Accordingly, the positions of the free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853installed on the arm2855may be changed. A movement direction of the arm2855may be guided along the rail2857on which the driver2859is installed. The rail2857may be provided so that the longitudinal direction faces the horizontal direction. For example, the rail2857may be provided so that the longitudinal direction faces a direction parallel to the first direction2. Optionally, the arm2855may be rotated by being coupled to a rotational axis whose longitudinal direction faces the third direction6. The rotational shaft may be rotated by the driver. Accordingly, the positions of the free wet nozzle2851and the treatment liquid nozzle2853installed on the arm2855may be changed.

The exhaust line2860may be provided outside the liquid treating chamber280. The exhaust line2860is provided with a decompression unit (not illustrated). The exhaust line2860exhausts the atmosphere inside the treatment space by the decompression unit. The exhaust line2860may be coupled to the treatment container2820. Optionally, the exhaust line2860may couple to the bottom portion2824aof outer cup2824. When viewed from the top, the exhaust line2860may be located to overlap the inner cup2822.

The airflow supply unit2880supplies an airflow to the inner space of the housing2810. The airflow supply unit2880may supply a descending airflow to the inner space. The airflow supply unit2880may supply the temperature and/or humidity-controlled airflow to the internal space. The airflow supply unit2880may be installed in the housing2810. The airflow supply unit2880may be installed above the treatment container2820and the support unit2830. The airflow supply unit2860may include a fan2882, an airflow supply line2884, and a filter2886. The airflow supply line2884may supply an external airflow whose temperature and/or humidity is controlled to the internal space. The filter2886may be installed in the airflow supply line2884. The filter2886may remove impurities contained in the external airflow flowing through the airflow supply line2884. When the fan2882is driven, the external airflow supplied by the airflow supply line2884may be uniformly transmitted to the inner space.

Referring back toFIGS.1to3, the developing block20bincludes a transfer chamber220, a buffer chamber240, a heat treatment chamber260, and a liquid treating chamber280. The transfer chamber220, the buffer chamber240, the heat treatment chamber260, and the liquid treatment chamber280of the developing block20bare provided in the substantially similar structures and arrangements to those of the transfer chamber220, the buffer chamber240, the heat treatment chamber260, and the liquid treatment chamber280of the coating block20a, and thus a description thereof will be omitted. However, all of the liquid treating chambers280of the developing block20bperform a developing process of supplying a developer to the substrate W and developing the substrates in the same manner

The interface module30connects the treating module20and the external exposure apparatus40. The interface module30includes an interface frame320, an additional process chamber340, an interface buffer360, and a transfer member380.

The interface frame320provides an inner space. A fan filter unit may be provided at an upper end of the interface frame320to form a downdraft in the inner space. The additional process chamber340, the interface buffer360, and the transfer member380are provided in the inner space of the interface frame320.

The additional process chamber340may perform a predetermined additional process before the substrate W, which has been processed in the coating block20a, is loaded into the exposure apparatus40. Optionally, the additional process chamber340may perform a predetermined additional process before the substrate W, which has been processed in the exposure apparatus40, is loaded into the developing block20b. According to one example, the additional process is an edge exposure process of exposing an edge region of the substrate W, a top surface cleaning process of cleaning the upper surface of the substrate W, or a lower surface cleaning process of cleaning the lower surface of the substrate W. A plurality of additional process chambers340is provided, and may be provided to be stacked on each other. All of the additional process chambers340may be provided to perform the same process. Optionally, some of the additional process chambers340may be provided to perform different processes.

The interface buffer360provides a space in which the substrate W transferred between the coating block20a, the additional process chamber340, the exposure apparatus40, and the developing block20btemporarily stays during transfer. A plurality of interface buffers360may be provided, and the plurality of interface buffers360may be provided to be stacked on each other. According to the example, the additional process chamber340may be disposed on one side surface of the transfer chamber220based on an extended line in the longitudinal direction and the interface buffer360may be disposed on the other side surface.

The transfer member380transfers the substrate W between the coating block20a, the additional process chamber340, the exposure apparatus40, and the developing block20b. The transfer member380may be provided as one or a plurality of robots. According to an example, the transfer member380includes a first robot3820, a second robot3840, and a third robot3860. The first robot3820transfers the substrate W between the coating block20a, the additional process chamber340, and the interface buffer360. The second robot3840transfers the substrate W between the interface buffer360and the exposure apparatus40. The third robot3860transfers the substrate W between the interface buffer360and the developing block20b.

Each of the first robot3820, the second robot3840, and the third robot3860includes a hand on which the substrate W is placed. The hand may be provided to be movable forwardly and backwardly, rotatable about an axis parallel to the third direction6, and movable along the third direction6. The hands of the first robot3820, the second robot3840, and the third robot3860may all have the same or similar shape as that of the transfer hand2240of the transfer robot224. Optionally, the hand of the robot directly exchanging the substrate W with the cooling plate2642of the heat treatment chamber is provided in the same or similar shape as that of the transfer hand2240of the transfer robot224, and the hands of the remaining robots are may be provided in different shapes.

Hereinafter, other examples of the support unit ofFIG.7will be described. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, other configurations except for the body2831of the support unit2830are provided similarly in other embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, in the following, descriptions of similarly provided components will be omitted to avoid duplication of description.

FIG.11is a front view of another example of the support unit ofFIG.7.FIG.12is a view schematically illustrating an enlarged state of part B ofFIG.11.

Referring toFIGS.11and12, the body2831may have an upper surface on which the substrate W is seated. The upper surface of the body2831is provided in a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. For example, when viewed from the top, the upper surface of the body2831may be provided in a smaller area than the upper surface of the substrate W. The upper surface of the body2831may be provided with a central portion A1and an edge portion A2. The central portion A1may be a region including the center of the body2831. The edge portion A2may be a region surrounding the central portion A1. For example, the central portion A1may be an area including a region in which a support protrusion2836, which will be described later, is formed. For example, the edge portion A2may be a region from the central portion A1to the end of the body2831.

The upper surface of the central portion A1may be formed lower than the upper surface of the edge portion A2. For example, the central portion A1may be formed to be stepped with respect to the edge portion A2. A vacuum hole2835is formed in the central portion A1. The vacuum hole2835may adsorb and fix the substrate W in a vacuum adsorption method. The central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be provided as a decompression space into which the substrate W is adsorbed by the vacuum hole2835. The support protrusion2836for supporting the substrate W may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion A1. An upper end of the support protrusion2836may be formed to be round. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may contact the lower surface of the substrate W to support the substrate W. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may be provided at the same height as the upper surface of the edge portion A2. A plurality of support protrusions2836may be provided.

The edge portion A2provides a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. The lower surface of the substrate W may be in contact with the upper surface of the edge portion A2, so that the substrate W may be supported. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W is supported by the support protrusion2836and the edge portion A2, and the substrate W may be adsorbed and supported due to a depression space formed in the central portion A1.

A groove3000is formed in the edge portion A2. The groove3000may be provided in a slit shape. The slit3000may be provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2. When viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction of the slit3000, the slit3000is provided with a first side surface3100and a second side surface3200. The second side surface3200is located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100. For example, the first side surface3100may be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200may be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first side surface3100may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. The second side surface3200may be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300may be a surface connecting the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200. When the slit3000is viewed from the cross-section cut in the width direction, the first side surface3100, the slit3000may be provided in a trapezoidal shape in which the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, and the bottom surface3300are combined with each other to have an open upper surface. An inner space of the slit3000is provided as an airflow trapping space in which the external airflow introduced between the substrate W and the upper surface of the edge A2stays. For example, the external airflow may stay in the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, the bottom surface3300, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge portion A2.

Referring toFIG.12which is an enlarged view of part B ofFIG.11, an airflow flows inside the housing2810. For example, an external airflow introduced by an airflow supply unit2880to be described later flows inside the housing2810. When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, the lower surface of the substrate W is not in close contact with the edge portion A2. A space spaced apart between the edge portion A2and the substrate W is generated. Accordingly, the airflow formed in the housing2810may be introduced into the spaced space. The airflow introduced into the spaced space flows into the airflow trapping space provided in the slit3000formed in the edge portion A2.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second side surface3200is formed to be inclined upwardly in the direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832, so that the airflow introduced into the spaced space may easily flow into the airflow trapping space. Accordingly, the airflow introduced into the trapping space collides with the first side surface3100and the lower surface of the substrate W in the trapping space to form a vortex. That is, since the second side surface3200is formed to be inclined, the inflow of airflow into the trapping space is increased, thereby actively forming a vortex inside the airflow trapping space.

The subsequent airflow re-introduced into the spaced space by the formed vortex collides again. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the subsequent airflows introduced into the spaced space decreases. Due to this, it is possible to minimize the reaching of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the central portion A1. By minimizing the airflow reaching the central portion A1, it is possible to minimize the pressure deviation between the pressure in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W supported by the support protrusion2836formed in the central portion A1and the pressure in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W supported while being seated at the edge portion A2.

Furthermore, a depression member2834provides a negative pressure to the decompression space through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the vicinity of the center of the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. Accordingly, the vicinity of the center of the substrate W is provided with a relatively high negative pressure compared to the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. When the substrate W is seated on the support unit2830in the warped state and an external airflow is introduced into the spaced space, the airflow collides with the lower surface of the substrate W in the spaced space, so that force acts in the upper direction with respect to the substrate W. Force is applied in the downward direction in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W, and force is applied in the upward direction in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W.

Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, by forming the slit3000in the edge portion A2, it is possible to minimize the introduction of the external air flow into the central portion A1. The difference in pressure between the vicinity of the center of the substrate W and the vicinity of the edge of the substrate may be minimized Accordingly, when the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, it is possible to minimize the more deterioration of the warped state of the substrate W.

FIG.13is a front view of another example of the support unit ofFIG.7.FIG.14is a diagram schematically illustrating an enlarged state of part C ofFIG.13.

Referring toFIGS.13and14, the body2831may have an upper surface on which the substrate W is seated. The upper surface of the body2831is provided in a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. For example, when viewed from the top, the upper surface of the body2831may be provided in a smaller area than the upper surface of the substrate W. The upper surface of the body2831may be provided with a central portion A1and an edge portion A2. The central portion A1may be a region including the center of the body2831. The edge portion A2may be a region surrounding the central portion A1. For example, the central portion A1may be an area including a region in which a support protrusion2836, which will be described later, is formed. For example, the edge portion A2may be a region from the central portion A1to the end of the body2831.

The upper surface of the central portion A1may be formed lower than the upper surface of the edge portion A2. For example, the central portion A1may be formed to be stepped with respect to the edge portion A2. A vacuum hole2835is formed in the central portion A1. The vacuum hole2835may adsorb and fix the substrate W in a vacuum adsorption method. The central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be provided as a decompression space into which the substrate W is adsorbed by the vacuum hole2835. The support protrusion2836for supporting the substrate W may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion A1. An upper end of the support protrusion2836may be formed to be round. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may contact the lower surface of the substrate W to support the substrate W. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may be provided at the same height as the upper surface of the edge portion A2. A plurality of support protrusions2836may be provided.

The edge portion A2provides a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. The lower surface of the substrate W may be in contact with the upper surface of the edge portion A2, so that the substrate W may be supported. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W is supported by the support protrusion2836and the edge portion A2, and the substrate W may be adsorbed and supported due to a depression space formed in the central portion A1.

A groove3000is formed in the edge portion A2. The groove3000may be provided in a slit shape. The slit3000may be provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2. When viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction of the slit3000, the slit3000is provided with a first side surface3100and a second side surface3200. The second side surface3200is located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100. For example, the first side surface3100may be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200may be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first side surface3100may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. A protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the axis of the support shaft2832may be formed at an upper end of the first side surface3100. A protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the center of the body2831may be formed at the upper end of the first side surface3100. The second side surface3200may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300may be a surface connecting the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200.

An inner space of the slit3000is provided as an airflow trapping space in which the external airflow introduced between the substrate W and the upper surface of the edge A2stays. For example, the external airflow may stay in the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, the bottom surface3300, the protrusion3400, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge portion A2with each other.

Referring toFIG.14which is an enlarged view of part C ofFIG.13, an airflow flows inside the housing2810. For example, an external airflow introduced by an airflow supply unit2880to be described later flows inside the housing2810. When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, the lower surface of the substrate W is not in close contact with the edge portion A2. A space spaced apart between the edge portion A2and the substrate W is generated. Accordingly, the airflow formed in the housing2810may be introduced into the spaced space. The airflow introduced into the spaced space flows into the airflow trapping space provided in the slit3000formed in the edge portion A2.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since the protrusion3400is formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100, it is possible to minimize the discharge of the airflow introduced into the spaced space from the inside of the airflow trapping space to the central portion A1. That is, the airflow introduced into the airflow trapping space may not move to the central portion A1, but may collide with the protrusion3400again to stay inside the airflow trapping space. As the airflow that collides with the protrusion3400again collides with a subsequently introduced airflow, a vortex may be actively formed in the airflow trapping space. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the subsequent airflows introduced into the spaced space decreases. Due to this, it is possible to minimize the reaching of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the central portion A1. By minimizing the airflow reaching the central portion A1, it is possible to minimize the pressure deviation between the pressure in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W supported by the support protrusion2836formed in the central portion A1and the pressure in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W supported while being seated at the edge portion A2.

Furthermore, a depression member2834provides a negative pressure to the decompression space through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the vicinity of the center of the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. Accordingly, the vicinity of the center of the substrate W is provided with a relatively high negative pressure compared to the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. When the substrate W is seated on the support unit2830in the warped state and an external airflow is introduced into the spaced space, the airflow collides with the lower surface of the substrate W in the spaced space, so that force acts in the upper direction with respect to the substrate W. Force is applied in the downward direction in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W, and force is applied in the upward direction in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W.

Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, by forming the slit3000in the edge portion A2, it is possible to minimize the introduction of the external air flow into the central portion A1. The difference in pressure between the vicinity of the center of the substrate W and the vicinity of the edge of the substrate may be minimized Accordingly, when the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, it is possible to minimize the more deterioration of the warped state of the substrate W.

FIG.15is a front view of another example of the support unit ofFIG.7. Referring toFIG.15, the body2831may have an upper surface on which the substrate W is seated. The upper surface of the body2831is provided in a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. For example, when viewed from the top, the upper surface of the body2831may be provided in a smaller area than the upper surface of the substrate W. The upper surface of the body2831may be provided with a central portion A1and an edge portion A2. The central portion A1may be a region including the center of the body2831. The edge portion A2may be a region surrounding the central portion A1. For example, the central portion A1may be an area including a region in which a support protrusion2836, which will be described later, is formed. For example, the edge portion A2may be a region from the central portion A1to the end of the body2831.

The upper surface of the central portion A1may be formed lower than the upper surface of the edge portion A2. For example, the central portion A1may be formed to be stepped with respect to the edge portion A2. A vacuum hole2835is formed in the central portion A1. The vacuum hole2835may adsorb and fix the substrate W in a vacuum adsorption method. The central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be provided as a decompression space into which the substrate W is adsorbed by the vacuum hole2835. The support protrusion2836for supporting the substrate W may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion A1. An upper end of the support protrusion2836may be formed to be round. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may contact the lower surface of the substrate W to support the substrate W. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may be provided at the same height as the upper surface of the edge portion A2. A plurality of support protrusions2836may be provided.

The edge portion A2provides a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. The lower surface of the substrate W may be in contact with the upper surface of the edge portion A2, so that the substrate W may be supported. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W is supported by the support protrusion2836and the edge portion A2, and the substrate W may be adsorbed and supported due to a depression space formed in the central portion A1.

A groove3000is formed in the edge portion A2. The groove3000may be provided in a slit shape. The slit3000may be provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2. When viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction of the slit3000, the slit3000is provided with a first side surface3100and a second side surface3200. The second side surface3200is located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100. For example, the first side surface3100may be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200may be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first side surface3100may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. A protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the axis of the support shaft2832may be formed at an upper end of the first side surface3100. A protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the center of the body2831may be formed at the upper end of the first side surface3100. The second side surface3200may be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300may be a surface connecting the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200.

An inner space of the slit3000is provided as an airflow trapping space in which the external airflow introduced between the substrate W and the upper surface of the edge A2stays. For example, the external airflow may stay in the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100, the second side surface3200, the bottom surface3300, the protrusion3400, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge portion A2with each other.

Referring toFIG.14which is an enlarged view of part C ofFIG.13, an airflow flows inside the housing2810. For example, an external airflow introduced by an airflow supply unit2880to be described later flows inside the housing2810. When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, the lower surface of the substrate W is not in close contact with the edge portion A2. A space spaced apart between the edge portion A2and the substrate W is generated. Accordingly, the airflow formed in the housing2810may be introduced into the spaced space. The airflow introduced into the spaced space flows into the airflow trapping space provided in the slit3000formed in the edge portion A2.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second side surface3200is formed to be inclined upwardly in the direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832, so that the airflow introduced into the spaced space may easily flow into the airflow trapping space. Further, since the protrusion3400is formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100, it is possible to minimize the discharge of the airflow introduced into the spaced space from the inside of the airflow trapping space to the central portion A1. That is, the airflow introduced into the airflow trapping space may not move to the central portion A1, but may collide with the protrusion3400again to stay inside the airflow trapping space. As the airflow that collides with the protrusion3400again collides with a subsequently introduced airflow, a vortex may be actively formed in the airflow trapping space. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the subsequent airflows introduced into the spaced space decreases. Due to this, it is possible to minimize the reaching of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the central portion A1. By minimizing the airflow reaching the central portion A1, it is possible to minimize the pressure deviation between the pressure in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W supported by the support protrusion2836formed in the central portion A1and the pressure in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W supported while being seated at the edge portion A2.

Furthermore, a depression member2834provides a negative pressure to the decompression space through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the vicinity of the center of the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. Accordingly, the vicinity of the center of the substrate W is provided with a relatively high negative pressure compared to the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. When the substrate W is seated on the support unit2830in the warped state and an external airflow is introduced into the spaced space, the airflow collides with the lower surface of the substrate W in the spaced space, so that force acts in the upper direction with respect to the substrate W. Force is applied in the downward direction in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W, and force is applied in the upward direction in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W.

Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, by forming the slit3000in the edge portion A2, it is possible to minimize the introduction of the external air flow into the central portion A1. The difference in pressure between the vicinity of the center of the substrate W and the vicinity of the edge of the substrate may be minimized Accordingly, when the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, it is possible to minimize the more deterioration of the warped state of the substrate W.

FIG.16is a front view of another example of the support unit ofFIG.7. Referring toFIG.16, the body2831may have an upper surface on which the substrate W is seated. The upper surface of the body2831is provided in a generally circular shape when viewed from the top. For example, when viewed from the top, the upper surface of the body2831may be provided in a smaller area than the upper surface of the substrate W. The upper surface of the body2831may be provided with a central portion A1and an edge portion A2. The central portion A1may be a region including the center of the body2831. The edge portion A2may be a region surrounding the central portion A1. For example, the central portion A1may be an area including a region in which a support protrusion2836, which will be described later, is formed. For example, the edge portion A2may be a region from the central portion A1to the end of the body2831.

The upper surface of the central portion A1may be formed lower than the upper surface of the edge portion A2. For example, the central portion A1may be formed to be stepped with respect to the edge portion A2. A vacuum hole2835is formed in the central portion A1. The vacuum hole2835may adsorb and fix the substrate W in a vacuum adsorption method. The central portion A1surrounded by the edge portion A2may be provided as a decompression space into which the substrate W is adsorbed by the vacuum hole2835. The support protrusion2836for supporting the substrate W may be provided on the upper surface of the central portion A1. An upper end of the support protrusion2836may be formed to be round. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may contact the lower surface of the substrate W to support the substrate W. The upper end of the support protrusion2836may be provided at the same height as the upper surface of the edge portion A2. A plurality of support protrusions2836may be provided.

The edge portion A2provides a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. The lower surface of the substrate W may be in contact with the upper surface of the edge portion A2, so that the substrate W may be supported. Accordingly, the lower surface of the substrate W is supported by the support protrusion2836and the edge portion A2, and the substrate W may be adsorbed and supported due to a depression space formed in the central portion A1.

A groove3000is formed in the edge portion A2. The groove3000may be provided in a slit shape. The slit3000may be provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2. A plurality of slits3000may be provided. The plurality of slits3000may be provided to be spaced apart from each other in a direction from the edge portion A2toward the center portion A1.

Hereinafter, for convenience of description, a case in which a plurality of slits3000is provided as three will be described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and the plurality of slits3000may be provided as two or a natural number of 4 or more.

The plurality of slits3000may be provided in different shapes. The plurality of slits3000may include a first slit3000a, a second slit3000b, and a third slit3000c. The first slit3000a, the second slit3000b, and the third slit3000cmay be sequentially spaced apart from each other in a direction from the edge portion A2of the body toward the center portion A1. The first slit3000amay be located closer to the outer end of the edge portion A2than the second slit3000band the third slit3000c. The second slit3000bmay be located closer to the outer end of the edge portion A2than the third slit3000c.

When the first slit3000ais viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction, the first slit3000ais provided with a first side surface3100aof the first slit3000aand a second side surface3200aof the first slit3000a. The second side surface3200ais located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100a. For example, the first side surface3100amay be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200amay be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100a.

When the second slit3000bis viewed from the cross-section cut in the width direction, the second slit3000bis provide with a first side surface3100bof the second slit3000band a second side surface3200bof the second slit3000b. The second side surface3200bis located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100b. For example, the first side surface3100bmay be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200bmay be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100b.

When the third slit3000cis viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction, the third slit3000cis provided with a first side surface3100cof the third slit3000cand a second side surface3200cof the third slit3000c. The second side surface3200cis located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100c. For example, the first side surface3100cmay be provided at a position closer to the central portion A1, and the second side surface3200cmay be provided at a position farther from the central portion A1than the first side surface3100c.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first side surface3100aof the first slit3000amay be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. The second side surface3200aof the first slit3000amay be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300aof the first slit3000amay be a surface connecting the first side surface3100aand the second side surface3200a. When the first slit3000ais viewed from the cross-section cut in the width direction, the first slit3000amay be provided in a trapezoidal shape in which the first side surface3100a, the second side surface3200a, and the bottom surface3300aare combined to have an open upper surface. The inner space of the first slit3000ais provided as a first trapping space in which the external air flow introduced between the substrate W and the upper surface of the edge portion A2stays. For example, the external airflow may stay in the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100a, the second side surface3200a, the bottom surface3300a, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge part A2with each other.

The first side surface3100bof the second slit3000bmay be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. The second side surface3200bof the second slit3000bmay be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300bof the second slit3000bmay be a surface connecting the first side surface3100band the second side surface3200b. When the second slit3000bis viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction, the second slit3000bmay be provided in a quadrangular shape in which the first side surface3100b, the second side surface3200b, and the bottom surface3300bare combined with each other to have an open upper surface. The inner space of the second slit3000bis provided as a second trapping space in which the airflow introduced from the first trapping space stays. For example, the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100b, the second side surface3200b, the bottom surface3300b, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge part A2with each other may be provided as a space in which the airflow introduced from the first trapping space stays.

The first side surface3100cof the third slit3000may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. A protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the axis of the support shaft2832may be formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100c. The protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the center of the body2831may be formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100c. The second side surface3200cof the third slit3000cmay be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. According to an example, the bottom surface3300cof the third slit3000cmay be a surface connecting the first side surface3100cand the second side surface3200c. The inner space of the third slit3000cis provided as a third trapping space in which the airflow introduced from the second trapping space stays. For example, the inner space formed by combining the first side surface3100c, the second side surface3200c, the bottom surface3300c, the protrusion3400, and the substrate W seated on the upper surface of the edge portion A2with each other may be provided as a space in which the airflow introduced from the second trapping space stays.

An airflow flows inside the housing2810. For example, an external airflow introduced by an airflow supply unit2880to be described later flows inside the housing2810. When the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, the lower surface of the substrate W is not in close contact with the edge portion A2. A space spaced apart between the edge portion A2and the substrate W is generated. Accordingly, the airflow formed in the housing2810may be introduced into the spaced space. The airflow introduced into the spaced space flows into the airflow trapping space provided in the slit3000formed in the edge portion A2.

According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second side surface3200aof the first slit3000ais formed to be inclined upwardly in the direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832, so that the airflow introduced into the spaced space may be easily introduced into the first trapping space. Accordingly, the airflow introduced into the first trapping space collides with the first side surface3100aof the first slit3000aand the lower surface of the substrate W in the first trapping space to form a vortex. That is, the second side surface3200aforming the first trapping space into which the external airflow is first introduced is formed to be inclined, so that the introduction of the airflow into the first trapping space increases, thereby actively forming the vortex in the first trapping space.

The subsequent airflow re-introduced into the spaced space by the formed vortex collides again. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the subsequent airflows introduced into the spaced space decreases. For this reason, it is possible to minimize the reach of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the second trapping space formed in the second slit3000b.

A vortex is secondarily formed in the second trapping space formed by the second slit3000b. Accordingly, it is possible to minimize the flow of the airflow into the third trapping space formed by the third slit3000cdisposed adjacent to the central portion A1. By forming the protrusion3400on the upper end of the first side surface3100cof the third slit3000c, it is possible to minimize the leakage of the air flow introduced into the third trapping space from the inside of the third trapping space to the central portion A1. That is, the airflow introduced into the airflow trapping space may not move to the central portion A1, but may collide with the protrusion3400again to stay inside the airflow trapping space. As the airflow that collides with the protrusion3400again collides with a subsequently introduced airflow, a vortex may be actively formed in the airflow trapping space.

For this reason, it is possible to minimize the reaching of the airflow introduced from the spaced space to the central portion A1while sequentially flowing through the first trapping space, the second trapping space, and the third trapping space. By minimizing the airflow reaching the central portion A1, it is possible to minimize the pressure deviation between the pressure in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W supported by the support protrusion2836formed in the central portion A1and the pressure in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W supported while being seated at the edge portion A2.

Furthermore, a depression member2834provides a negative pressure to the decompression space through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. The decompression member2834provides a negative pressure to the vicinity of the center of the substrate W through the vacuum hole2835formed in the central portion A1. Accordingly, the vicinity of the center of the substrate W is provided with a relatively high negative pressure compared to the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W. When the substrate W is seated on the support unit2830in the warped state and an external airflow is introduced into the spaced space, the airflow collides with the lower surface of the substrate W in the spaced space, so that force acts in the upper direction with respect to the substrate W. Force is applied in the downward direction in the vicinity of the center of the substrate W, and force is applied in the upward direction in the vicinity of the edge of the substrate W.

Accordingly, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, by forming the plurality of slits3000in the edge portion A2, it is possible to minimize the introduction of the external air flow into the central portion A1. The difference in pressure between the vicinity of the center of the substrate W and the vicinity of the edge of the substrate may be minimized Accordingly, when the substrate W in the warped state is seated on the support unit2830, it is possible to minimize the more deterioration of the warped state of the substrate W.

Unlike the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of slits3000may be provided in combination in various shapes. When the slit3000is viewed from a cross-section cut in the width direction, the slit3000may have a first side surface3100and a second side surface3200located farther from the center of the body2831than the first side surface3100. The plurality of slits3000may have any one of a first shape, a second shape, a third shape, and a fourth shape. For example, in the first shape, the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832. In the second shape, the first side surface3100may be formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832, and the second side surface3200may be formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction far away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832. In the third shape, the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200are formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832, and a protrusion3400protruding in the direction away from the center of the support shaft2832may be further formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100. In the fourth shape, the first side surface3100is formed parallel to the axial direction of the support shaft2832, and the second side surface3200is formed to be inclined upwardly in a direction away from the axial direction of the support shaft2832, and a protrusion3400protruding in a direction away from the center of the support shaft2832may be further formed on the upper end of the first side surface3100. The plurality of slits3000may be provided in various shapes other than the above-described shape of the slit3000.

FIG.17is a cut perspective view schematically illustrating another example of the support unit ofFIG.7. In the exemplary embodiment, the present invention has been described based on the case where the groove3000is provided in a slit shape and provided in a ring shape along the circumference of the edge portion A2as an example. However, unlike this, the slits3000may generally have a circular arc shape, and a plurality of slits may be provided. Referring toFIG.17, the slit3000may be provided on the edge portion A2. A plurality of slits3000may be provided. The plurality of slits3000may have a generally arc shape. The plurality of slits3000having the arc shape may share the center of the body2831. The plurality of slits3000may be provided to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The shape of the plurality of slits3000may be variously modified and provided as in the above-described exemplary embodiments.

In the exemplary embodiments, the present invention has been described based on the case where the bottom surface3300connecting the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200is provided as an example, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first side surface3100and the second side surface3200may share one side with each other. For example, the slit3000may be provided in a generally triangular shape when viewed from the front according to the combination of the first side3100and the second side3200with each other.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiments, the present invention has been described based on the case where the support protrusion2836is provided on the upper surface of the support unit2830as an example, but is not limited thereto. Each of the central portion A1and the edge portion A2may be provided as a seating surface on which the substrate W is seated. For example, the upper surface of the central portion A1and the upper surface of the edge portion A2may be in contact with the lower surface of the substrate W.

The foregoing detailed description illustrates the present invention. Further, the above content shows and describes the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and the present invention can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments. That is, changes or modifications are possible within the scope of the concept of the invention disclosed herein, the scope equivalent to the written disclosure, and/or within the scope of skill or knowledge in the art. The foregoing exemplary embodiment describes the best state for implementing the technical spirit of the present invention, and various changes required in specific application fields and uses of the present invention are possible. Accordingly, the detailed description of the invention above is not intended to limit the invention to the disclosed exemplary embodiment. Further, the accompanying claims should be construed to include other exemplary embodiments as well.