Patent Publication Number: US-6907637-B1

Title: Edge wheel assembly in a substrate processing brush box

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/301,986, filed Jun. 29, 2001, and entitled “SUBSTRATE PROCESSING BRUSH BOX.” The disclosure of the provisional application is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to substrate and semiconductor wafer preparation systems and methods, and more particularly, the present invention relates to the cleaning of substrates and semiconductor wafers using an inventive brush box and employing space, process, and manufacturing efficient systems. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In the fabrication of semiconductor devices, there is a need to perform wet cleaning of substrates at various stages of the fabrication process. Typically, integrated circuit devices are in the form of multi-level structures. At the substrate level, transistor devices having diffusion regions are formed over and into silicon substrates. In subsequent levels, interconnect metallization lines are patterned and electrically connected to the transistor devices to define the desired functional device. As is well known, patterned conductive layers are insulated from other conductive layers by dielectric materials, such as silicon dioxide. At each metallization level there is a need to planarize metal or associated dielectric material. Without planarization, fabrication of additional metallization layers becomes substantially more difficult due to the higher variations in the surface topography. In some applications, metallization line patterns are formed in the dielectric material, and then metal CMP operations are performed to remove excess metallization. 
     Following each CMP operation, a wet clean of the substrate is performed. The wet clean is designed to wash away any by-products of the fabrication process, remove contaminants, and to achieve and maintain the necessary degree of cleanliness essential to proceed to a subsequent fabrication operation. As transistor device structures become smaller and more complex, the precision required to achieve and maintain structure definition demands exacting standards of cleanliness be maintained in all process operations. If a wet clean is incomplete or ineffective, or if a post-wet clean drying is incomplete or ineffective, then unacceptable residue or contaminants are introduced into the processing environment. 
     Similarly, in the fabrication of hard disk drives, planarization and cleaning operations are needed to maintain a clean and smooth disk substrate. Residue or contaminants remaining on substrates in the fabrication of hard disks and other devices utilizing similar substrates is likewise unacceptable. 
     Substrate cleaning and scrubbing techniques, methods, and apparatus are plentiful and known in the art, and incorporate such operations as rinsing and scrubbing, immersion, and the application of thermal, mechanical, chemical, electrical, and/or sonic energy and the like to remove or displace water to dry the substrate. One known cleaning and scrubbing technique implements brush stations in which polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) brushes are used to scrub both sides of a substrate. In a typical brush station process, a substrate is rotated in a vertical orientation by substrate drive rollers, also called substrate edge wheels. As the substrate is rotated, a pair of cylindrical brushes or pads is brought into contact with the opposing surfaces of the wafer. The brushes or pads are mounted on counter-rotating mandrels disposed on opposite sides of the wafer being processed. The mandrels span the diameter of the substrate across the substrate center. The rotation of the mandrels rotates the cylindrical brushes or pads which are then applied against the opposing surfaces of the rotating substrate. During the scrubbing operation in some systems, nozzles direct sprays of liquid, e.g., an abrasive slurry, a chemical solution, or a rinse solution, on the opposing surfaces of the wafer. In some applications, liquid for polishing, scrubbing, or cleaning is supplied through the brush or pad, and some systems employ a combination of nozzles and fluid delivery through the brush or pad. 
     Substrate fabrication equipment is typically configured in integrated systems to maximize efficiency of processing by combining a plurality of fabrication processes to minimize substrate transfer and handling, to maximize the economical utilization of clean room floor space, and to maximize production throughput. Since a substrate wet cleaning is performed after many of the substrate fabrication steps, brush stations are often integrated into a plurality of fabrication and processing systems. By way of example, brush stations may be configured in pairs, side by side, with a pair of spin, rinse, and dry (SRD) tools configured vertically above the brush stations. Two brush stations are used, each with a pair of brushes, to enable the application of chemicals in one brush station and deionized (DI) water in the other. This dual brush station approach has been shown to improve the cleaning performance as well as increase throughput. In another typical configuration, each of the pair of brush stations performs the same scrubbing, cleaning, or other process operation, and the tandem implementation increases efficiency and throughput. 
     In typical prior art processing systems implementing one or more brush stations, the brush stations are specifically designed and configured for the particular system in which it is to be used, and often designed and configured for a specific location within an integrated system. Although many brush station parts, e.g., the brushes, are interchangeable between the various brush stations, each station is often unique to a particular implementation, and a specific location within the system, and typically requires manufacture of individual and specific components or parts for specific locations or implementations. 
     In view of the foregoing, there is a need for substrate brush station preparation systems and methods that provide modular and interchangeable brush stations with ease of access for service, ease of configuration for a plurality of system implementations, ease of configuration for a plurality of substrates and substrate sizes, and that maximize the cleaning and processing of wafers and other substrates in order to meet and exceed the ever more stringent cleanliness requirements for fabrication processes. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Broadly speaking, the present invention fills these needs by providing a substrate processing brush box that is modular and symmetrical in design and implementation enabling ease of configuration and incorporation into a plurality of substrate processing applications. In particular, the edge wheel assembly of the substrate processing brush box provides a modular component of the brush box that is easily configurable to a plurality of applications. 
     In one embodiment, a modular edge wheel assembly in a brush box for processing a substrate is disclosed. The modular edge wheel assembly includes an edge wheel assembly block and a pair of edge wheels. Each edge wheel is connected to an edge wheel shaft at a processing end, and each edge wheel shaft projects through the edge wheel assembly block through an edge wheel shaft bore. The modular edge wheel assembly further includes an edge wheel drive motor which is configured to drive edge wheel drive pulleys. The edge wheel drive pulleys are connected to a drive end of each edge wheel shaft. The modular edge wheel assembly is configurable to be attached as a unit to one of a right side and a left side of the brush box. 
     In another embodiment, an edge wheel assembly for supporting a vertically oriented substrate is disclosed. The edge wheel assembly is designed to be inserted into side walls of a brush box. The edge wheel assembly includes an edge wheel assembly block which is capable of interchangeably mounting to either of two side walls of the brush box. The edge wheel assembly also includes a first edge wheel and a second edge wheel mounted to the edge wheel assembly block. Each of the edge wheels has a groove that is capable of supporting the substrate. The first and second edge wheels are further aligned with one another to enable rotation of the supported substrate. The edge wheel assembly further includes a drive motor coupled to a plate. The plate is designed to couple to the edge wheel assembly block at either one of a first side and a second side of the edge wheel assembly block. The first side and the second side of the edge wheel assembly block are external to the brush box. 
     In yet another embodiment, an edge wheel assembly is disclosed. The edge wheel assembly is used in a semiconductor wafer fabrication brush box, and is configured to support and to rotate a semiconductor wafer in a vertical orientation within the brush box. The edge wheel assembly includes an edge wheel assembly block that has at least two pairs of edge wheel shaft bores through the edge wheel assembly block. Further, the edge wheel assembly block includes a first edge wheel attached to a processing end of a first edge wheel shaft, and a second edge wheel attached to a processing end of a second edge wheel shaft. The first edge wheel shaft and the second edge wheel shaft extend through the edge wheel assembly block in one of the at least two pairs of edge wheel shaft bores. The edge wheel assembly also includes a drive motor coupled to the edge wheel assembly block with a plate. The plate is designed to couple the drive motor to either one of a first position and a second position on the edge wheel assembly block, the first position and the second position are each external to the brush box and enable insertion of the edge wheel assembly into either one of a first side and a second side of the brush box. 
     The advantages of the present invention are numerous. One notable benefit and advantage of the invention is the modular design. Assembly and component parts of the present invention are designed for configuration to a plurality of implementations of the present invention. Assembly and component parts can be configured for right-hand or left-hand access using the same parts, and thus significantly reducing the cost of manufacture. Instead of typical prior art specially designed and manufactured parts for specific implementations, the present invention incorporates symmetrical design providing for modular parts that can be turned, reversed, or otherwise simply configured for a particular location or implementation. In addition to significantly reducing the cost of manufacture, training costs are reduced, and serviceability is greatly increased. 
     Another benefit is the ease with which the present invention is configured for a plurality of substrate sizes. In some substrate processing implementations, it is preferable to utilize brushes or pads that are specifically matched to a substrate size. In one embodiment of the present invention, brushes or pads are easily changed on brush assembly mandrels, or entire brush assemblies can be easily configured for specific substrate sizes, and the brush assemblies implemented in embodiments of the present invention as desired. 
     An additional benefit is the ability to integrate the system into existing process equipment resulting in increased quality and quantity of product with fewer defects or scrap due to contamination. One embodiment of the invention is of essentially identical dimension as existing brush boxes, and the present invention can be implemented to replace existing tools with embodiments of the present invention with a resulting increase in serviceability and performance. 
     Other advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements. 
         FIG. 1  shows a brush box in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows another view of brush box in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 3  shows another perspective of brush box  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4  shows a perspective from the rear of brush box in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5A  is an exploded view of door in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5B  shows another perspective with a plan view of door in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6A  shows a detail view of the brush drive assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6B  shows a detailed view of brush angle gears, load cell, and worm gear in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7A  shows a view of the brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7B  shows another perspective of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7C  shows another perspective of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8A  shows a view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8B  shows another view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8C  shows another view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8D  shows another view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9A  is an exploded view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9B  is another exploded view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10A  is a side plan view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10B  is a bottom plan view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11A  shows an exploded view of a single brush drive, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11B  shows another perspective of an exploded brush drive, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11C  shows a detail view of the brush drive housing shown in FIG.  11 B. 
         FIG. 12A  is a cross-section view of a brush drive, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12B  shows a detail view of the mandrel support connector shown in FIG.  12 A. 
         FIG. 12C  shows a detail view of the brush drive housing shown in FIG.  12 A. 
         FIG. 13A  shows another side plan view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13B  is another bottom plan view of a brush drive assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 13C  shows a detail view of the brush drive components from  FIG. 13B  that are exterior to the brush box. 
         FIG. 14A  shows a detailed view of modular edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14B  shows another view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14C  shows another view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14D  shows a cross-sectional view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14E  shows a detail cross-sectional view of shaft bores from FIG.  14 D. 
         FIG. 14F  is a side plan view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15A  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 15B  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15C  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 16A  shows an integrated processing tool incorporating a pair of brush boxes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 16B  shows the same integrated processing tool as in  FIG. 16A  from a different angle. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     An invention for substrate preparation is disclosed. In preferred embodiments, apparatus and methods include a substrate processing brush box of symmetrical and modular design for implementation in a plurality of substrate processing tools and applications. The substrate processing brush box incorporates a modular brush drive assembly and a modular edge wheel assembly. 
     In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be understood, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process operations have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention. 
       FIG. 1  shows a brush box  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In  FIG. 1 , brush box  100  is shown in an open configuration revealing a number of structural features in the interior of the brush box  100 . In one embodiment, brush box  100  is operated with the interior of the brush box  100  at less than atmospheric pressure, and therefore must be sealed. Brush box door  110  provides access to the interior structural components of brush box  100 , and provides a surface through which a substrate  124  is inserted into and removed from the interior of the brush box  100 . Inner door panel  112  provides an interior structure on the brush box door  110 , and a slot door panel (not visible in  FIG. 1 ) is configured in between the brush box door  110  and the inner door panel  112 . Slot door panel  142  (see  FIG. 5A ) provides a seal to contain the interior region of the brush box  110 , and in an open position, provides access for inserting or removing a substrate  124 . 
     In one embodiment, an edge wheel assembly  114  is configured to a side of the brush box  100 . The modular edge wheel assembly  114  is attached to the illustrated brush box  100  through a side panel and provides support, positioning, cooling, movement, and the like for edge wheels  116  as is described in greater detail below in reference to  FIGS. 14A-14E  and  15 A- 15 C. In  FIG. 1 , front edge wheel  116   a  is shown providing support for a substrate  124  positioned in brush box  100 . Rear edge wheel  116   b  is not visible in the illustrated brush box  100 . Front edge wheel  116   a  and rear edge wheel  116   b  are configured to support a substrate  124  in a vertical orientation within brush box  100 , and to rotate, which rotates the substrate supported thereon. 
     A substrate stabilizer is configured to support a top edge of substrate  124  when the substrate  124  is positioned on edge wheels  116 , and brushes  118  are in a retracted position away from the substrate  124 . The substrate stabilizer assembly  134  is configured to a side panel of brush box  100  and includes an actuator  133  and a substrate stabilizer arm  122 . In one embodiment, the actuator  133  positions connecting rods in the substrate stabilizer assembly  134  which position the substrate stabilizer arm  122  in brush box  100 . In one embodiment, the substrate stabilizer assembly  134  is controlled in conjunction with a substrate sensing system and a brush positioning system to ensure the substrate stabilizer arm  122  is positioned to support the substrate  124  in a vertical orientation only when a substrate is present and the brushes  118  are in a retracted position away from substrate  124  surfaces, or are to be moved into the retracted position. Brush box  100  and substrate stabilizer assembly  132  are configured so that substrate stabilizer assembly  132  can be configured to either side panel of brush box  100  to maximize access for serviceability in a plurality of brush box  100  configurations and implementations. 
     In  FIG. 1 , substrate  124  is positioned between brushes attached to brush cores  118  which are mounted on counter-rotating mandrels (not visible in  FIG. 1 ) and configured to a brush drive assembly  120 . The brush drive assembly  120  is configured through the rear of brush box  100 , and is described in greater detail below in reference to  FIGS. 6A-13C . In one embodiment of the invention, the brush drive assembly  120  is generally configured to counter-rotate mandrels (not visible) with brushes and brush cores  118  attached thereto. The counter-rotating brushes are applied to opposing surfaces of substrate  124 , which is rotated by front edge wheel  116   a  and rear edge wheel  116   b  (not visible). The brush drive assembly  120  is configured to supply fluid for cleaning, polishing, buffing, and the like through the counter-rotating brushes. In one embodiment, fluid is supplied to the fluid delivery system through brushes and brush cores  118  at fluid delivery fitting  136 . 
     Also shown in  FIG. 1  is wafer sensing apparatus  132 . Wafer sensing apparatus  132  is configured to each side panel of brush box  100  and senses the presence of a substrate  124  in processing position within brush box  100 . In one embodiment, wafer sensing apparatus  132  is a fiberoptic system that senses the presence of substrate  124  in processing position between brushes on brush cores  118  and on the edge rollers  116 . In one embodiment, the wafer sensing apparatus  132  transmits the state of substrate presence to a system controller (not shown) to enable or disable a plurality of functions of and within brush box  100 . By way of example, position of substrate stabilizer arm might be enabled by presence of a substrate, opening of door  110  might be disabled by presence of a substrate, delivery of fluids through the fluid delivery system might be enabled by the presence of a substrate, and the like. 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, brush box  100  is of a symmetrical and modular configuration about a vertical axis or center line through brush box  100  to enable integration into a plurality of fabrication and processing tools. In one embodiment of the invention, brush box  100  is typically implemented as a right-hand or a left-hand brush box  100  within a system. In fabricating brush box  100  as essentially symmetrical about a vertical center line, components of the brush box  100  that are typically mirrored as right and left components, or right and left brush box  100  assemblies, are generally fabricated as essentially identical parts that are mounted, configured, attached, and the like as mirror images, as will be illustrated and described in several examples below. Additionally, symmetrical configuration minimizes fabrication of specialized component parts of brush box  100 . By way of example in  FIG. 1 , door  110  is shown with hinges  126  on the left side of door  110 , and securing screws  130  along the right edge of door  10 . Door  110  is easily configured to be hinged on the right side with hinges  126  attached to hinge cut outs  127  on door  110  and affixed in holes  128  in the front panel of brush box  100 . Similarly, securing screws  130  can be attached along left edge of door  110 . In this manner, door  110  is easily configured for either right hand or left hand opening, using the same parts for either configuration. 
     In  FIG. 1 , edge wheel assembly  114  is shown attached to brush box  100  through the right panel. In one embodiment of the invention, brush box  100  might be configured to a fabrication or processing tool, or integrated processing system, so that access and serviceability of brush box  100  is maximized. As will be described in greater detail below in reference to  FIGS. 14A-15C , edge wheel assembly  114  is configurable through either the right or the left panel of brush box  100 . Additionally, edge wheel assembly  114  is configurable through either the right or left panel of brush box  100  using substantially the same assembly and support/mounting parts in either position. As can be seen in  FIG. 1 , an edge wheel assembly mounting position  131  is visible in the left panel of brush box  100 . The position of the edge wheel assembly  114  is then easily configured depending on the specific application or location of brush box  100  within a tool or integrated processing system. 
     The modular design of brush box  100  is implemented in both the general structure of the brush box  100  and in the individual assemblies incorporated into brush box  100 . By way of example, one embodiment of the present invention can be implemented in a wafer fabrication cleaning and drying tool which includes two brush boxes  100  side-by-side, and two SRD tools mounted vertically over the brush boxes, one SRD over each brush box  100  (see FIGS.  16 A and  16 B). The tool might be configured in a stand or rack to supply power, gas or liquid chemistry, water, exhaust, drainage, and the like. In such a tool, each of the integrated brush boxes  100  might be configured to provide maximum serviceability and access with exterior configuration of the edge wheel insert assemblies  114 , doors  10  configured to open toward the center of the tool, and the like. Each brush box  100  might be configured for a particular application and location, but using substantially the same brush box  100  and support/mounting structures in each configuration. 
       FIGS. 2-4  show additional views of brush box  100  with various features as described above identified from a plurality of angles in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 2  shows another view of brush box  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 2 , brush box  100  is once again shown in an open configuration. Brush box door  100  provides access into an interior region of brush box  100 , and is attached to brush box  100  at hinges  126 . Brush box door can be secured to the brush box  100  body with securing screws  130  along an edge opposite hinges  126 . Hinge cut outs  127  on brush box door  110 , and corresponding holes  128  on brush box  100  illustrate the ability to configure brush box door  110  to open from either edge utilizing the same component parts. On the interior of brush box door  110  is inner door panel  112 . Brush box door is described in greater detail below in reference to  FIGS. 5A and 5B . 
     Wafer sensing apparatus  132  senses the presence of a substrate in processing position within brush box  100 , between brushes on brush rollers  118  and supported on edge wheels  116 . Wafer sensing interior flange  132   a  is visible on an interior wall of brush box  100 . Also visible in an interior of brush box  100  are brush cores  118 , fluid delivery fittings  136 , and fluid delivery plugs  137  which are described in detail below in reference to  FIGS. 6A-13C  which illustrate embodiments of the brush drive assembly  120 . 
     Edge wheel assembly  114  includes the various components associated with the edge wheels  116  (front edge wheel  116   a  is shown in FIG.  2 ), including edge wheel assembly block fitting  206  which provides a connection for fluid supply to the components of the edge wheel assembly  114 . As described in greater detail in reference to  FIGS. 14A-15C , the symmetrical design of the edge wheel assembly  114  provides for the ability to position the edge wheel assembly  114  in either of a fight panel or a left panel of brush box  100 . In  FIG. 2 , an edge wheel assembly mounting position  131  is visible in a panel of brush box  100  opposite edge wheel assembly  114 . 
     Above edge wheel assembly  114  in  FIG. 2  is the substrate stabilizer assembly  134  and actuator  133  as described above in reference to FIG.  1 . Substrate stabilizer arm  122  (see  FIG. 1 ) is not visible in FIG.  2 . 
       FIG. 3  shows another perspective of brush box  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 3 , door  110  is in an open position, but the interior of brush box  100  is not visible. As described above, door  110  can be configured to brush box  100  to open from either edge, and is attached to brush box  100  with hinges  126  and securing screws  130 . Holes  128  and hinge cut-outs  127  accept hinges  126  when attaching brush box door  110  to brush box  100 . 
       FIG. 3  also shows another perspective of wafer sensing apparatus  132 , and an exterior view of edge wheel assembly mounting position  131 . That portion of the brush drive assembly  120  exterior to the brush box  100  is shown in a rear section of brush box  100 . 
       FIG. 4  shows a perspective from the rear of brush box  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As in  FIG. 3 , that portion of the brush drive assembly  120  that remains exterior to brush box  100  is visible in FIG.  4 . Also shown is edge wheel assembly  114 , including edge wheel drive motor  202  which remains in an external location to brush box  100 . The wafer sensing apparatus  132 , substrate stabilizer assembly  134  and actuator  133 , and a view of holes  128  that accept hinges  126  (not shown) are all identified in FIG.  4 . 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B  show additional detail of door  110  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5A  is an exploded view of door  110  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 5A , door  110  is shown with hinges  126  attached to the right side of door  110 , and securing screws  130  configured along the left edge of door  110 . Consistent with the overall design of brush box  100  in one embodiment, door  10  is substantially symmetrical and configurable to be attached to brush box  100  with hinges  126  on either the right side of door  110  or on the left side of door  110 . Hinge cut outs  127  are shown opposite hinges  126 , and attachment points are provided for securing screws  130  along both the right and left edges of door  110  to be configured with securing screws  130  along whichever edge is opposite the hinges  126 . A single door  110  is thus provided to be configured for a plurality of brush box  100  applications and configurations, and can be manufactured as a single component part rather than a specialized part for a particular application, location or configuration. 
     Slot  140  is provided in substantially the center of door  110 . Slot  140  is generally configured to provide access to brush box  100  for the insertion or extraction of a substrate  124  (not shown). Slot door  142  is positioned between door I  10  and door inner panel  112  and provides for scaling the interior of brush box  100 . In one embodiment, slot door  142  is configured to slide into either one of an open position or a closed position between door  110  and door inner panel  112 . Door inner panel  112  is therefore larger on one side of slot  140  than on the other. In order to maintain the symmetrical design of brush box  100 , inner door panel  112  is configured to be reversible to accommodate the sliding of slot door  142  to an open position on either the right or left side of slot  140 . 
       FIG. 5B  shows another perspective with a plan view of door  110  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Identified features of door  110  in  FIG. 5B  include hinges  126 , hinge cut outs  127 , securing screws  130 , and door inner panel  112 . 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  show a detail view of the brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 6A , brush drive assembly  120  includes a right brush drive  150   a  and a left brush drive  150   b  which are assembled from substantially identical parts configured to face each other and to be pivoted into a desired position as will be described below. In one embodiment, right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  are configured with brushes attached to brush cores  118  mounted on counter rotating mandrels (not visible). Mandrel support arms  152  are provided for support of the mandrel, brush, and brush core  118  structures. Each mandrel support arm  152  and mandrel (not visible) is connected on one end to a brush drive housing  153 . Brush drive housing  153  is configured to house gears to impart rotation of brush drive shaft  154  to mandrel and, in one embodiment, the side-by-side right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  are configured with counter-rotating mandrels. A mandrel support connector  151  is provided at a distal end of the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b  to connect the mandrel and the mandrel support arm  152 . A bearing (not visible) is provided to allow the mandrel to rotate freely in the mandrel support connector  151 . In one embodiment, the mandrel support arm  152  is configured to be substantially rigid and fixed in place. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, fluids used for cleaning, polishing, buffing, rinsing, and the like are delivered through brushes attached to brush cores  118  and applied to substrate surfaces by the brushes. Fluids are supplied to the interior of mandrels (not visible) at fluid delivery fittings  136 . In one embodiment, the structure of the right brush drive  150   a  is substantially identical to the structure of left brush drive  150   b . Fluid delivery plugs  137  are provided to allow the fluid delivery fittings  136  to be configured to a top surface of each brush drive  150 , and allow the substantially identical brush drives  150  to be configured to either a right or a left position in brush drive assembly  120 . Configuration is accomplished by turning, rotating, flipping, reversing, or otherwise re-positioning essentially identical component parts into a right or left, top or bottom, position. 
     In one embodiment, fluid delivery through the brush is supplemented with fluid delivery through a manifold (not shown) configured in or to mandrel support arms  152 . Fluid is sprayed, dripped, or otherwise dispensed through manifolds (not shown) that span the length of mandrel support arms  152 . In one embodiment, fluid delivery is configured to include at least two separate systems such that one fluid delivery system supplies fluid through mandrels and brushes through fluid delivery fittings  136 , and another fluid delivery system supplies fluid through manifolds through what is shown in  FIG. 6A  as fluid delivery plugs  137 . In this manner, by way of example, chemistries can be mixed on the surface of a substrate and used for cleaning, polishing, buffing, and the like, or a rinse operation can immediately follow a process utilizing a processing chemistry, or any other desired combination of same or different fluid or chemistry delivery. In one embodiment, the fluid delivery system includes a common delivery through both the mandrels and brushes  118 , and through manifolds along mandrel support arms  152 . 
     Brush drive housings  153  are attached to brush drive front mounting plate  156 , and configured to provide for the positional pivoting of right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b , and, in one embodiment, to seal the gears, bearings, bushings, and such structures configured to impart rotational force to the mandrels. Brush drive shafts  154  extend through brush drive front mounting plate  156  and are configured to rotate. One end of the brush drive shafts  154  terminates in brush drive housing  153  where the rotation of brush drive shafts  154  is imparted through gears, in one embodiment, to mandrels (not shown) of the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b . In one embodiment, brush drive front mounting plate  156  defines a barrier between the structures that will be within brush box  100  (see  FIGS. 14 ) including brush drive housings  153  and right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b , and those structures that will be external to the brush box  100 . 
     In one embodiment, the rotation of the mandrels is caused by a motor  176  configured to a brush drive rear mounting plate  178 . Motor  176  turns brush rotating drive pulley  172 . Belt  174  connects brush rotating drive pulley  172  to right brush rotating pulley  170   a  and left brush rotating pulley  170   b , and is configured to turn right brush rotating pulley  170   a  and left brush rotating pulley  170   b  in opposite directions. Right brush rotating pulley  170   a  and left brush rotating pulley  170   b  drive brush drive shafts  154 , resulting in the counter-rotation of the mandrels. 
     In addition to counter-rotating mandrels, one embodiment of the invention provides for pivoting right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  to bring brushes on brush cores  118  together, and to separate brushes on brush cores  118  to create an opening between brushes of the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b . Referring to  FIG. 1 , brushes on brush cores  118  are separated in order to enable substrate  124  to be inserted in between the brushes. Once substrate  124  is in place in between brushes, supported on edge rollers  116 , and stabilized by substrate stabilizer arm  122 , brushes on brush cores  118  are positioned together to contact opposing surfaces of substrate  124 . In one embodiment, the cleaning, polishing, buffing, and the like of a substrate  124  is enhanced and/or manipulated by the application of varying degrees of force against the opposing surfaces of substrate  124  by brushes attached to brush cores  118 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 6A , brush angle gears  158  are configured to position brush drive shafts  154  to coordinately move right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  to move the brushes on brush cores  118  together and to separate the brushes attached to brush cores  118 . In one embodiment, the positioning of brush drive shafts  154  by brush angle gears  158  pivots the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b . Brush drive housings  153  are configured to allow the coordinate movement of the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b  in equal and opposite directions. As right brush drive  150   a  pivots in a direction to position right brush on brush core  118  towards a center axis between the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b , the left brush drive  150   b  pivots in the opposite direction positioning the left brush on brush core  118  towards the same center axis between the right brush drive  150   a  and the left brush drive  150   b . Brush angle gears  158  are configured to position brush drive shafts  154  in equal and opposite directions of movement. Brush drive housings  153  are configured to allow a maximum range of motion for right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  to pivot brushes attached to brush cores  118  towards a center axis where a substrate would be positioned in a vertical orientation, and as well to pivot brushes away from the center axis providing for the insertion or removal of a substrate. 
     In one embodiment, movement of the brush angle gears  158  is driven by worm gear  162 . Worm shaft  164  is rotated to spin worm drive  166  which drives worm gear  162 . Movement of worm gear  162 , therefore, results in torque being applied to brush drive shaft  154 . In one embodiment, worm shaft  164 , worm drive  166 , and worm gear  162  provide for positive, precise positioning of brush drives  150   a ,  150   b . Interlocked brush angle gears  158  ensure movement of right brush drive  150   a  is equal and opposite to that of left brush drive  150   b.    
     Until brushes attached to brush cores  118  contact opposite sides of a substrate (not shown), resistance to pivotal positioning of right brush drive  150   a  and left bush drive  150   b  is generally limited to friction between gears, bearings, and the like. Once the brushes, however, contact opposite surfaces of a substrate (not shown), measurable force can be applied in order to position brushes attached to brush cores  118 , resulting in measurable force applied against the surfaces of the substrate. In one embodiment, frictional resistance is calibrated and accommodated, and the force applied to position the brushes attached to brush cores  118  is measured, and is approximately equal to the force applied the wafer surface, with reasonable calculation. In one embodiment, a load cell  160  is provided to measure the force applied to position brushes, enabling the measurement of force applied to substrate surfaces. The ability to measure and control the force applied to substrate surfaces by brushes enables more precise and controlled substrate processing. In one embodiment, a load cell (not shown) is configured to the edge wheels (see  FIGS. 14A-15C ) to measure the force of the substrate downward on the edge wheels as a component of the force applied to the substrate surfaces. 
       FIG. 6B  shows a detailed view of brush angle gears  158 , load cell  160 , and worm gear  162 . The component parts precisely control the pivoting of right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b  (see FIG.  6 A), and in one embodiment, worm gear  162  and associated structures enable controlled, incremental positioning of brush drives in order to apply desired and measurable force against substrate surfaces for processing. The illustrated component parts, all on the same side of brush drive front mounting plate  156 , are external to the brush box  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) when brush drive assembly  120  is configured to brush box  100 . 
     Referring once again to  FIG. 6A , in one embodiment, each of the component parts of brush drive assembly  120  that is implemented in pairs (e.g., brush positioning pulleys  170   a  and  170   b , brush angle gears  158 , brush drive shafts  154 , brush drive housings  153 , brush drives  150   a  and  150   b , brush cores  118 , and the like) are manufactured as identical component pieces, and then configured for a particular (e.g., right or left) implementation in brush drive assembly  120 . Cost of manufacture is significantly decreased by reduction in specialized part manufacture, and serviceability is significantly increased. In one embodiment, most assemblies that include a right and left (or top and bottom) component part use identically manufactured parts that are reversed, turned, or otherwise configured to be implemented in a desired location. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, right brush drive  150   a  and left brush drive  150   b  are configured to process a plurality of substrate sizes. By way of example, each of a 300 mm and a 200 mm semiconductor wafer, or any other desired size semiconductor wafer, can be processed by the same configuration of brush drives  150   a  and  150   b . In another embodiment, brush drives  150   a  and  150   b  are configurable for a specific substrate size. By way of example, one size of brushes and brush cores  118  implemented on brush drives  150   a  and  150   b  are designed and configured for a 200 mm semiconductor wafer, and a different set of brushes and brush cores  118  are implemented on brush drives  150   a  and  150   b  that are designed and configured for a 300 mm semiconductor wafer. The modular design of brush drive assembly  120  enables substrate processing with a brush drive assembly  120  designed for processing a plurality of substrate sizes, or the brush drive assembly  120  can be removed and replaced to customize a particular brush drive assembly  120  for processing a particular substrate size. 
       FIGS. 7A-13C  show additional views of brush drive assembly  120  with various features as described above identified from a plurality of angles in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 7A  shows a view of the brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Identified features include fluid delivery fittings  136 , mandrel support connector  151 , mandrel support arm  152 , brush core  118 , and brush drive housing  153 . Also shown are brush rotating drive pulley  172 , right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , belt  174 , and motor  176 , at brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , and behind brush drive front mounting plate  156 . 
       FIG. 7B  shows another perspective of brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Identified features in  FIG. 7B  include right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b , having fluid delivery fittings  136 , mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , and brush drive housings  153 . The brush drive front mounting plate  156  and the brush drive rear mounting plate  178  are also identified. Brush rotating drive pulley  172 , right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b  are shown at the brush drive rear mounting plate  178 . 
       FIG. 7C  shows another perspective of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 7C , identified features include a right brush drive  150   a  and a left brush drive  150   b  having brush drive housings  153 , brush cores  118 , and mandrel support arms  152 . Opposite the brush drive housings  153  are mandrel support connectors  151  having fluid delivery plugs  137 . Brush drive front mounting plate  156  separates those structures that will be inserted into, and those structures that will remain external to the brush box  100  (see FIG.  4 ). Additional identified features include brush angle gears  158 , brush drive shafts  154 , worm gear  162 , motor  176 , brush rotating drive pulley  172 , right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , and belt  174 . 
       FIG. 8A  shows a view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Identified features in  FIG. 8A  include brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , and brush drive front mounting plate  156 . Brush drive housings  153 , are shown with mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , and mandrel support connectors  151  having fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . 
       FIG. 8B  shows another view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Features identified in  FIG. 8B  include brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , and brush drive front mounting plate  156 . Brush drive housings  153 , are shown with mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , and mandrel support connectors  151  having fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . 
       FIG. 8C  shows another view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Features identified in  FIG. 8C  include brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , brush drive shafts  154 , and brush drive front mounting plate  156 . Brush drive housings  153 , are shown with mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , and mandrel support connectors  151  having fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . 
       FIG. 8D  shows another view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 8D , identified features include brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , motor  176 , brush rotating drive pulley  172 , right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , and belt  174 . Also identified are brush drive front mounting plate  156 , brush drive housings  153  with mandrel support arms  152 , mandrel support connectors  151 , fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . 
       FIG. 9A  is an exploded view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Features identified in  FIG. 9A  include motor  176  attached to brush drive rear mounting plate  178 . Right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , and brush rotating drive pulley  172  are interconnected with belt  174 . Worm gear  162 , worm shaft  164 , worm drive  166 , and brush drive shafts  154  are shown aft of brush front mounting plate  156 . Right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b  include brush drive housings  153  with mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , mandrel support connectors  151 , fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . 
       FIG. 9B  is another exploded view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Features identified in  FIG. 9B  include brush drive rear mounting plate  178  and brush front mounting plate  156 . Right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b  include brush drive housings  153  with mandrel support arms  152 , brush cores  118 , mandrel support connectors  151 , fluid delivery fittings  136  and fluid delivery plugs  137 . Brush drive shafts  154  translate the rotary drive force generated by motor  176  (see  FIG. 9A ) to counter-rotate mandrels and brushes on brush cores  118  through, in one embodiment, interconnecting gears within brush drive housings  153 . 
     In one embodiment, right and left brush drives  150   a ,  150   b  are within an interior region of brush box  100  (see FIG.  1 ), and associated drive components as described herein and located on an opposite side of brush front mounting plate  156  are outside of or exterior to the processing area of brush box  100 . Chemistries and other processing fluids used to process substrates within brush box  100  are contained within the brush box  100  processing region by seals  156   a , and additional seals (not shown) within brush drive housings  153 , which also protect brush drive component parts from the corrosive effects of moisture, corrosive chemistries, and the like. Seals  156   a , however, create a component of friction in rotating components which is calibrated, compensated, or otherwise compensated in force measurement calculations, and the like. In another embodiment, a labyrinth configuration is used in place of seals  156   a.    
       FIG. 10A  is a side plan view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Illustrated features include belt  174 , and brush front mounting plate  156 . Brush drive housing  153  is also identified having a mandrel support arm  152 , brush core  118 , mandrel support connector  151 , and fluid delivery fitting  136 . 
       FIG. 10B  is a bottom plan view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 10B , illustrated features include right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , motor  176 , and brush rotating drive pulley  172 . Brush drive shafts  154 , connected to right brush rotating pulley  170   a  and left brush rotating pulley  170   b  travel through brush front mounting plate  156  into brush drive housings  153 . From each brush drive housing  153 , mandrel support arms  152 , and brush cores  118  are shown. Each mandrel support arm  152  is connected to a respective brush core.  118  with a mandrel support connector  151 , having a fluid delivery plug  137 . 
       FIG. 11A  shows an exploded view of a single brush drive  150   a ,  150   b , in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Illustrated features include brush drive shaft  154 , and brush drive housing  153 . Also shown are mandrel support arm  152 , brush core  118 , mandrel support connector  151 , and fluid delivery fitting  136 . 
       FIG. 11B  shows another perspective of exploded brush drive  150   a ,  150   b , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Illustrated features in  FIG. 11B  include brush drive shaft  154 , brush drive housing  153 , brush core  118 , mandrel support arm  152 , mandrel support connector  151 , fluid delivery fitting  136  and fluid delivery plug  137 .  FIG. 11C  shows a detail view of the brush drive housing  153  shown in FIG.  11 B. 
       FIG. 12A  is a cross-section view of a brush drive  150   a ,  150   b , in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 12A  shows mandrel  190  within brush drive  150   a ,  150   b . In one embodiment, mandrel  190  is generally a hollow cylinder having a plurality of perforations therein, and a fitting  191  configured to receive fluid plumbing connections. Chemistries, rinses, or any other desired fluids used in substrate processing are dispensed through fitting  191 , through the hollow mandrel  190 , out of the perforations, and through the brushes on brush cores  118  on to the surfaces of a substrate. Also shown in  FIG. 12A  are mandrel support arm  152 , between mandrel support connector  151  and brush drive housing  153 . A brush core  118  is fitted over mandrel  190 . 
       FIG. 12B  shows a detail view of the mandrel support connector  151  shown in FIG.  12 A. Mandrel support arm  152  connects to mandrel support connector  151  on one side of mandrel support connector  151 , and the mandrel  190 , having a brush core attached thereto, connects to the mandrel support connector  151  adjacent to the mandrel support arm  152 . Fitting  191  is within the mandrel support connector  151 , configured to connect to fluid delivery fitting  136  (not shown). 
       FIG. 12C  shows a detail view of the brush drive housing  153  shown in FIG.  12 A. Mandrel support arm  152  connects to brush drive housing  153  on one side of brush drive housing  153 , and the mandrel  190 , having a brush core attached thereto, connects to the brush drive housing  153  adjacent to the mandrel support arm  152 . Bearings, seals, and the like are not specifically identified in  FIG. 12C , but visible to illustrate an exemplary configuration. 
       FIG. 13A  shows another side plan view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Illustrated features include belt  174 , brush drive rear mounting plate  178 , and brush front mounting plate  156 . Brush drive housing  153  is also identified having a mandrel support arm  152 , brush core  118 , mandrel support connector  151 , and fluid delivery fitting  136 . 
       FIG. 13B  is another bottom plan view of a brush drive assembly  120  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 13B , illustrated features include brush drive housings  153 , mandrel support arms  152 , and brush cores  118 . Each mandrel support arm  152  is connected to a respective brush core  118  with a mandrel support connector  151 , having a fluid delivery plug  137 . 
       FIG. 13C  shows a detail view of the brush drive components from  FIG. 13B  that are exterior to the brush box  100  (see FIG.  4 ). Illustrated features include right brush rotating pulley  170   a , left brush rotating pulley  170   b , motor  176 , and brush rotating drive pulley  172 . Brush drive shafts  154 , connected to right brush rotating pulley  170   a  and left brush rotating pulley  170   b  travel through brush front mounting plate  156  into brush drive housings  153  (not identified in FIG.  13 C). Worm shaft  164  and brush angle gears  158  are also identified in FIG.  13 C. 
       FIG. 14A  shows a detailed view of modular edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The illustrated edge wheel assembly  114  includes an edge wheel assembly block  200  configured to support and contain the primary features of the edge wheel assembly  114 . In one embodiment, the edge wheel assembly block  200  is a solid structure constructed of a corrosive-resistant material such as PEIT, or other light weight, durable, and easily fabricated material, and is manufactured as a single component part for a plurality of implementations as is discussed below. 
     Edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  are attached to edge wheel shafts  204  which are configured through edge wheel assembly block  200  in shaft bores  230  or  232  (see  FIGS. 14D ,  14 E,  14 F). In one embodiment, two pairs of shaft bores  230  and  232  are configured into edge wheel assembly block  200  to enable configuration of edge wheel assembly insert  114  for a plurality of substrate sizes. By way of example, edge wheel shafts  204  mounted through shaft bores  230  might position a 200 mm substrate on edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  for optimal processing, and edge wheel shafts  204  mounted through shaft bores  232  might position a 300 mm substrate on edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  for optimal processing. Shaft bores  230  or  232  not used in a desired implementation are plugged with bore plugs  234  (see  FIGS. 14B ,  14 E). As will be described in greater detail, shaft bores  230  and  232  are configured with passages in the interior of edge wheel assembly block  200 , and bore plugs  234  seal the passages and bores. In one embodiment of the invention, shaft bores  230  and  232  provide for the easy configuration of the modular edge wheel assembly  114  for optimal processing of both 200 mm substrates and 300 mm substrates. In one embodiment, edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b , are provided of a particular size to be used with a specific size of substrate. 
     Edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  are rotated by edge wheel shafts  204 . Edge wheel shafts  204  are rotated by driven pulleys  212  connected to an edge wheel motor  202 . Edge wheel motor  202  is attached to edge wheel motor plate  208  and drives drive pulley  210 . Drive pulley  210  is connected to driven pulleys  212  by belt  216  in order to rotate driven pulleys  212  connected to drive shafts  204 , thereby rotating edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b . Belt  216  is configured to rotate driven pulleys  212  in the same direction so that edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  rotate a substrate (not shown) positioned thereon. Belt tensioner  214  is provided to maintain constant and appropriate contact between belt  216 , drive pulley  210 , and driven pulleys  212 . In one embodiment, configuration of drive shafts  204  in shaft bores  230  utilizes a larger belt  216  than configuration of edge wheel shafts  204  configured in shaft bores  232 . In another embodiment, the process of rotating edge wheel shafts  204  is accomplished by gears. 
     Edge wheel motor plate  208  is configured to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block  200 . In one embodiment, edge wheel motor plate  208  is reversible, and thereby configurable to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block  200  in a plurality of implementations of the edge wheel assembly  114 . By way of example, edge wheel assembly insert  114  is configurable for implementation in either a right or left panel of brush box  100  (see FIG.  1 ), and the same edge wheel motor plate  208  is configured to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block  200  in both configurations. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, edge wheel assembly block  200  includes a plurality of passages through the interior of the edge wheel assembly block  200  for fluid delivery to a plurality of locations in and on or around edge wheel assembly  114 . Edge wheel assembly block fitting  206  is provided to connect fluid supply to the edge wheel assembly  114 . In one embodiment, supplied fluid includes DI water, and is provided for rinsing, lubrication, cooling, and the like of the edge of a substrate positioned on edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b . In addition, edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b  are rinsed, cooled, lubricated, and the like, as well as edge wheel shafts  204 , shaft bores  230  and  232 , and interior seals, fittings, bushings, and the like of edge wheel assembly block  200 . Sprayers  220  are provided on the edge wheel assembly block  200  in a plurality of locations for desired dispensing of fluids on a substrate edge, edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b , and edge wheel shafts  204 . In one embodiment, edge wheel assembly block  200  is configured to accept sprayers  220  in a plurality of locations adjacent to both shaft bores  230  and  232  for sprayer  220  implementation in a plurality of substrate size configurations of edge wheel assembly  114 . 
     In one embodiment, shaft bore sprayer  236  (see  FIG. 14E ) is provided to dispense fluid to the interior of shaft bores  230  and  232  for cooling and lubrication. Shaft bore sprayers  236  are connected to the interior fluid passages within edge wheel assembly block  200  such that when fluid is supplied to the edge wheel assembly  114 , edge wheel shafts  204  are cooled and lubricated with the same fluid used for rinsing, cooling, lubricating, and the like of edge wheels  116   a  and  116   b , and the substrate edge. Shaft bore  230  or  232  that does not have a edge wheel shaft  204  configured in a desired configuration is sealed with bore plug fittings  234  (see  FIGS. 14B ,  14 E). 
     Interior fluid passages within edge wheel assembly block  200  are configured for a plurality of applications of the edge wheel assembly  114 . The interior fluid passages provide for the configuration of sprayers  220  in desired locations, and for the implementation of both shaft bores  230  and  232  to contain shaft bore sprayers  236 . In one embodiment, edge wheel assembly block  200  is thereby fabricated as a single component piece to be implemented in a plurality of configurations of edge wheel assembly  114 . In one embodiment, edge wheel assembly block  200  is fabricated as a symmetrical component about a mid-point vertical axis. The same assembly block  200  is therefore capable of attaching to a brush box  100  (see  FIG. 1 ) on either a right or left side of brush box  100 , and the configured sprayers, fittings, and the like can be configured for either orientation to perform required functions as necessary. The interior fluid passages are configured to provide the desired fluid supply in the plurality of desired applications without requiring specifically and specially manufactured piece parts. In one embodiment, openings  224  in edge wheel assembly block  200  are created during the manufacture of edge wheel assembly block  200 , and are fitted with plugs  224   a  to seal the interior fluid passages. 
       FIG. 14B  shows another view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Illustrated features in  FIG. 14B  include edge wheel assembly block  200  with openings  224  in edge wheel assembly block  200  created during manufacture which can be fitted with plugs  224   a . Edge wheel assembly block fitting  206  is provided to connect fluid supply to the edge wheel assembly  114 , and sprayers  220  are shown adjacent to edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b . An unused bore is shown sealed by bore plug  234 . Edge wheel motor plate  208  is configured to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block  200 . In one embodiment, edge wheel motor plate  208  is reversible, and thereby configurable to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block. 200  in a plurality of implementations of the edge wheel assembly  114 . 
       FIG. 14C  shows another view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Identified features in  FIG. 14C  include edge wheel assembly block  200 , sprayer  220 , and edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b . Edge wheel motor plate  208  is shown attaching edge wheel drive motor  202  to edge wheel assembly block  200 . 
       FIG. 14D  shows a cross-sectional view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Features identified in  FIG. 14D  include edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b , sprayer  220 , and edge wheel assembly block fitting  206 . Shaft bores  230  and  232  are identified, and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG. 14E  shows a detail cross-sectional view of shaft bores  230 ,  232  from FIG.  14 D. In  FIG. 14E , side-by-side shaft bores  230  and  232  are shown with an edge wheel shaft  204  and edge wheel  116  configured in shaft bore  230 , and a bore plug  234  configured in unused shaft bore  232 . Shaft bore sprayer  236  is shown adjacent to edge wheel shaft  204  in shaft bore  230 . In one embodiment, shaft bore sprayer  236  provides cooling, lubrication, and the like to edge wheel shaft  204  and shaft bore  230 , and additionally keeps shaft seals, bearings, bushings, (not identified in  FIG. 14E , but visible) and the like lubricated, pliable, and properly functioning. 
       FIG. 14F  is a side plan view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Identified features in  FIG. 14F  include edge wheel assembly block  200  having shaft bores  230  and  232 . Driven pulleys  212 , and drive pulley  210  are interconnected by belt  216 , with belt tensioner  214  provided to maintain constant and appropriate contact between belt  216 , drive pulley  210 , and driven pulleys  212 . In an embodiment with drive shafts  204  (not shown) in shaft bores  232 , a different size of belt  216  may be provided than that in the illustrated embodiment. Edge wheel motor plate  208  is configured to attach edge wheel drive motor  202  (not visible in  FIG. 14F ) to edge wheel assembly block  200 . 
       FIG. 15A  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 15A , identified features include edge wheel assembly block  200  with openings  224  and plugs  224   a , and sprayers  220 . Edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b  are configured in one set of shaft bores, and unused shaft bores  232  are visible. Edge wheel drive motor  202  is attached to edge wheel assembly block  200  with edge wheel motor plate  208 . Fluids, chemistries, and the like are provided to edge wheel assembly block  200  through edge wheel assembly block fitting  206 . 
       FIG. 15B  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Identified features in  FIG. 15B  include edge wheel assembly block  200  with openings  224  and plugs  224   a , and sprayers  220 . Edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b  are configured in shaft bores  230 , and unused shaft bores  232  are visible. Edge wheel drive motor  202  is attached to edge wheel assembly block  200  with edge wheel motor plate  208 . 
       FIG. 15C  shows another perspective view of edge wheel assembly  114  in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Identified features in  FIG. 15C  driven pulleys  212 , and drive pulley  210  interconnected by belt  216 , with belt tensioner  214  provided to maintain constant and appropriate contact between belt  216 , drive pulley  210 , and driven pulleys  212 . Edge wheels  116   a ,  116   b  are configured in shaft bores  230  (not identified in FIG.  15 C), and unused shaft bores  232  are visible. Edge wheel drive motor  202  is attached to edge wheel assembly block  200  with edge wheel motor plate  208 . Fluids, chemistries, and the like are provided to edge wheel assembly block  200  through edge wheel assembly block fitting  206 . 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, substantially all pieces, components, and assembly parts of the brush box  100  that may be exposed to processing fluids are constructed of durable, light weight, and easily manufactured, molded, and configured material that is resistant to corrosion or other deterioration that might result from exposure to a plurality of processing fluids. Materials for such wet exposure include plastic, PET, or other similar materials. Supporting, structural, and other such component parts of the brush box  100  that are generally not exposed to processing fluids are manufactured of strong, light weight, and low particle generating materials such as hastelloy and stainless steel. 
     As described, one embodiment of the brush box  100  is easily configurable for a plurality of applications. Primary components are generally modular and symmetrical to provide for more efficient manufacture of components that are implemented in a plurality of configurations. In a typical implementation, brush box  100  is implemented as a pair of side-by-side brush boxes  100 , with a left and right brush box  100 . Left and right brush boxes  100  are typically of a symmetrical configuration with maximum access for use and serviceability. In one embodiment, such a configuration includes the edge wheel insert assemblies  114  configured to the exterior panels of brush box  100 , and doors  110  hinged to open towards the center of the configuration. The present invention provides for the configuration of a plurality of desired implementations without requiring specialized or specific manufacture of the various component parts. In this manner, cost of manufacture is significantly reduced, and serviceability is significantly increased. 
       FIGS. 16A and 16B  show an integrated processing tool incorporating a pair of brush boxes  100  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In  FIG. 16A , a pair of brush boxes  100  is configured side-by-side, and a pair of drying tools is configured above the brush boxes  100 . Implementing a pair of brush boxes  100  with a pair of drying tools provides an efficient and economical method of substrate processing at a plurality of substrate process steps. By way of example, batches of semiconductor wafers can be processed through a post-CMP wet clean with minimal transfer and handling of the wafers when the integrated processing tool is positioned proximate to the CMP tool. 
       FIG. 16B  shows the same integrated processing tool as in  FIG. 16A  from a different angle. As can be seen, one embodiment of the invention implementing a side-by-side configuration maximizes serviceability and space efficiency. Brush boxes  100  are configured with such assemblies as the wafer sensing apparatus, the substrate stabilizer assembly, and the edge wheel assembly on the exterior or outboard panel  300  of each brush box  100 . Doors  110  are configured to open toward the interior or inboard region of the tool with securing screws  130  shown on the exterior or outboard edge of doors  110 . A system controller is shown and is used to integrate the plurality of functions of the present invention, as well as the present invention with the additional processing tools. 
     Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims.