Source: https://patents.google.com/patent/DE69735514T2/en
Timestamp: 2020-03-30 18:01:13
Document Index: 227401531

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 88', 'art 88', 'art 73', 'art 88', 'art 73', 'art 88', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 88', 'art 88', 'art 73', 'art 88', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'arts 110', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'art 73', 'arts 97']

DE69735514T2 - Device for the treatment of semiconductor wafers - Google Patents
DE69735514T2
DE69735514T2 DE69735514T DE69735514T DE69735514T2 DE 69735514 T2 DE69735514 T2 DE 69735514T2 DE 69735514 T DE69735514 T DE 69735514T DE 69735514 T DE69735514 T DE 69735514T DE 69735514 T2 DE69735514 T2 DE 69735514T2
DE69735514T
DE69735514D1 (en
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Masami Minato-ku Akimoto
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Naruaki Minato-ku Iida
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Takayuki Minato-ku Katano
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Junichi Minato-ku Kitano
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Hiroshi Minato-ku Shinya
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Takayuki Minato-ku Toshima
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Hidetami Minato-ku Yaegashi
Legal & Int. Prop. Dept. Eiji Minato-ku Yamaguchi
1996-01-26 Priority to JP3124996 priority Critical
1996-05-30 Priority to JP13726496 priority
2006-12-07 Publication of DE69735514T2 publication Critical patent/DE69735514T2/en
The The present invention relates to a processing device, in which is an object, for example a semiconductor wafer or a LCD substrate, processes such as coating, development, and the like is suspended.
One Process for manufacturing a semiconductor device comprises a Group of steps in which a treatment liquid, for example, a photoresist liquid, is applied to a semiconductor wafer, for example a Silicon wafer, a photoresist liquid film, is exposed with a circuit pattern and the like, by Photolithography was reduced, and exposing the Photoresist film.
The comprises the above-described coating / development process system, as a unified arrangement, a cassette station for transporting a semiconductor wafer, namely an object to be processed, in a cassette and from this out; a washing unit for washing the wafer; a liability unit for drying the surface the wafer; a cooling unit for cooling the Wafers down to a predetermined temperature; a resist coating unit for applying a resist liquid on the surface the wafer; a heating unit for previously or subsequently heating the Wafers before or after coating with the resist liquid; a peripheral exposure unit for removing a resist portion of a peripheral region of the wafer; a wafer transport table to Transporting the wafer to an adjacent exposure device and away from it; and a development unit for application a developing fluid on the exposed wafer, and for selectively dissolving a photosensitive or non-photosensitive made section in the developing liquid. This way will the production of the semiconductor device is performed efficiently.
at This type of process system is usually a wafer transport path provided at a central part of the system in the longitudinal direction. The respective ones Units are arranged on both sides of the transport path, wherein their front faces the transport path. A wafer transport device for transporting wafers to the respective units is movable over the Wafer transport path provided. Because the system is one in the lateral direction elongated Construction, in which various process units arranged along the horizontally extending Wafertransportweg are, will be for the installation of the system requires a considerable amount of space too high a cost Clean room leads. In particular, if the purity of the entire system and take respective parts thereby increased that is supposed to be a process with a vertical, laminar River is used, which is effective in this type of system can be used, the original costs and maintenance costs an air conditioner, a filter, and the like due to the large space to.
The Japanese Patent Application KOKAI Publication No. 4-85812 proposes a process system before, in which a wafer transport device is arranged so that it can move in the vertical direction and rotate about a vertical axis can, and process units in several stages to the wafer transport device are provided around.
at This process system becomes the space to install the system reduced, so that reduces the cost of a clean room become. About that In addition, the speed of transport and access increased by wafers. Therefore, the throughput rate of the system is increased.
at However, this type of process system becomes predetermined with wafers Processes performed in the process units in several stages are arranged so that the state of the clean air, which is the Process system supplied is, for example, in terms of the amount, the temperature and / or change the pressure can. If the state of the air in the process system changes, a proper processing not done become what causes that process performance and yield are degraded. Since the space for moving the wafer transport device substantially is sealed, in particular, the air containing particles, the are generated by a wafer transport device drive unit at upper and lower end portions of the space for movement compressed, and can flow into the respective peripheral units. Therefore the yield of semiconductor devices is degraded. Especially When the transport device is rotated, a considerable The amount of particles generated, and this problem becomes more serious.
If the air supplied to the process system is released after processing, particles or impurities, For example, amine generated in the process system into the Clean room introduced. this leads to to that the purity as well as the life span of the pure space be worsened. Furthermore, if affect organic contaminants such as amine are present in the clean room, such Contaminants negative other process equipment in the clean room, For example, a CVD device for forming a thin film.
A Machining device according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from JP-A-03274746.
The EP-A-0335752, US-A-5,253,663 and GB-A-2217107 other, conventional Processing devices.
One The aim of the present invention is to provide a Processing device, in which a change in the state of the clean air, which fed to the device will be reduced to a minimum.
One Another object of the invention is to provide a Processing device in which particles are reduced, which are generated while a transport part for transporting an object to be processed is moved in the vertical direction.
One Another object of the invention is to provide a Machining device that constantly clean air into respective process units can contribute.
According to the present Invention, a processing device is provided, which has the features of claim 1. Preferred features are in the dependent claims specified.
The The invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description in connection with the attached Drawings understandable, at which:
1 Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view showing a resist liquid coating / developing process system for a semiconductor wafer, this system having a processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
2 a front view of the in 1 shown resist liquid coating / development system;
3 a view from the back of the in 1 shown resist liquid coating / development system;
4 is a schematic front view showing the flow of cleaning air in the in 1 illustrated resist liquid coating / development system explained;
5 is a partially enlarged vertical cross-sectional view showing a main part of the processing device according to the embodiment of the invention, which in the in 1 shown system is used;
6A and 6B FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view and a plan view, respectively, showing a slit slider serving as a pressure adjusting device in the machining apparatus according to the embodiment shown in FIG 1 shown system is used;
7 FIG. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing a main wafer transfer mechanism in the processing apparatus according to the embodiment shown in FIG 1 shown system is used;
8th is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the construction of a main part of the in 7 shown main wafer transport mechanism;
9 FIG. 12 is a sectional plan view showing the main wafer transfer mechanism as viewed in the direction of an arrow A in FIG 8th ;
10 is a side view showing the inside of the main wafer transport mechanism, as seen in the direction of an arrow B in 8th ;
11 is a side view showing the inside of the main wafer transport mechanism, as seen in the direction of an arrow C in 8th ;
12 Fig. 11 is a rear view schematically showing the flow of clean air in a resist liquid coating / developing process system for semiconductor wafers, this system having a processing device according to another embodiment of the invention;
13 is a side view, which schematically shows the flow of clean air in the in 12 illustrated process system explained;
14 Fig. 16 is a partially cutaway perspective view schematically showing a main wafer transfer mechanism according to the other embodiment of the invention;
15 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the construction of a main part of the in 14 shown main wafer transport mechanism;
16 FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the main wafer transfer mechanism as viewed in the direction of an arrow A in FIG 15 ;
17 is a side view showing the inside of the main wafer transport mechanism, seen in the direction of an arrow B in 15 ;
18 is a side view showing the inside of the main wafer transport mechanism, as seen in the direction of an arrow C in 15 ;
19 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the construction of a clean air inlet of the main wafer transfer mechanism; and
20 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the construction of a main part of another example of the main wafer transport mechanism according to the present invention.
A embodiment of the present invention used in a resist liquid coating / development process system for semiconductor wafers will be described in detail below on the attached Drawings described.
1 FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing a resist liquid coating / developing process system for semiconductor wafers, the system having a processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a front view of the in 1 shown resist liquid coating / development system, and 3 is a view from the back of the in 1 shown resist liquid coating / development system.
This process system has a cassette station 10 on, a process station 20 , which has multiple process units, and a transition section 30 for transporting wafers W between the process station 20 and an exposure device (not shown) proximate to the transition section 30 is provided.
The cassette station 10 Transports between the present system and another system semiconductor wafer W as objects to be processed in a wafer cassette 1 are arranged in units of, for example, 25 wafers. Continue to transport the cassette station 10 the wafers W between the wafer cassette 1 and the process station 20 ,
In the cassette station 10 are, as in 1 is shown several (four in 1 ) Projections 3 on a cassett table 2 in one direction X in 1 intended. wafer cassettes 1 can be straight at the protrusions 3 Wafer inlets / outlets of the process station 20 are facing. Wafers W are moved in the vertical direction (direction Z) in the wafer cassette 1 arranged. The cassette station 10 has a wafer transport mechanism 4 on that is between the wafer cassette table 2 and the process station 20 located. The wafer transport mechanism 4 has a wafer transport arm 4a on, which is movable in the direction of the arrangement of the cartridges (direction X) and in the direction of the arrangement of wafers W in the cassette (direction Z). The arm 4a Can be selectively applied to each of the wafer cassettes 1 access. The wafer transport arm 4a is rotatable in the direction θ, and can transport wafer W between an aligning unit (ALIM) and a take-out unit (EXT) leading to a group G3 (which will be explained later) at the process station side (FIG. 20 ) belongs.
The process station 20 comprises a plurality of process units for performing a series of steps for coating and developing a resist on semiconductor wafers W. These process units are arranged in several stages at predetermined positions. As a result, the semiconductor wafers W are processed individually. As in 1 is a vertically movable main wafer transport mechanism 21 in a central part of the process station 20 intended. All process units are around the wafer transport space 22 the main wafer transport mechanism 21 arranged. These process units are divided into multiple groups, and each process unit group consists of process units arranged in multiple stages. In the present embodiment, five process unit groups G1, G2, G3, G4 and G5 are arranged around a wafer transfer space 22, so that the wafer transfer space 22 is substantially closed.
In the five groups, the groups G1 and G2 are juxtaposed at the front of the system (that is, at the viewer's side of FIG 1 ). Group G3 is next to the cassette station 10 arranged, the group G4 is next to the transition section 30 arranged, and the group G5 is provided at the back of the system.
In group G1, as in 2 shown, two process units of the spin-type arranged in the vertical direction. These process units perform predetermined processes on wafers W mounted on spin chucks (not shown) in beakers 23 are arranged. In the present embodiment, a resist coating unit (COT) for coating a wafer W with a resist is disposed at the bottom, and a developing unit (DEV) for developing a pattern is disposed on the resist above. Accordingly, in the group G2, a resist coating unit (COT) is disposed below, and a developing unit (DEV) is disposed above as two spinning-type process units. The reason why the resist coating unit (COT) is located below is that a fuzz tion of resist liquid basically entails considerably more problems than a waste of developing fluid, under constructional and maintenance aspects. By placing the coating unit (COT) underneath, the difficulties are alleviated. However, it is possible to arrange the resist coating unit (COT) above, as required.
The group G3 has, as in 3 shown oven-type processing units to work with wafers W on an assembly table 24 (please refer 1 ) are arranged to perform predetermined processes. The process units are arranged in the vertical direction, for example in eight stages. For example, the process units include a cooling unit (COL) for cooling wafers, an adhesion unit (AD) for performing a bonding process on wafers, an alignment unit (ALIM) for aligning wafers, an extracting unit (EXT) for transporting wafers, preheating units (FIG. PREBAKE) for preheating wafers, and post-heating units (POBAKE) for reheating wafers. These eight units are arranged one after the other in an upward direction. Correspondingly, the group G4 comprises furnace-type processing units, for example a cooling unit (COL), an extension / cleaning unit (EXTCOL), an extension unit (EXT), a cooling unit (COL), two preheating units (PREBAKE) and two postheating units (POBAKE). These eight units are arranged one after the other in an upward direction.
There the cooling unit (COL) and the extension / cooling unit (ECTCOL) with low process temperatures in lower stages are, and the preheat units (PREBAKE), the Nachheizeinheiten (POBAKE) and the adhesion unit (AD) arranged in upper stages are, can mutual heat influences between the units are reduced. However, of course, a other arrangement can be used.
The group G5, located at the back of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 basically has the same construction as the groups G3 and G4. The group G5 is along guide rails 67 in the lateral direction of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 movable. Therefore, an empty space is provided by sliding the group G5, so that maintenance work on the main wafer transport mechanism 21 can be easily performed on the back.
The transition section 20 has the same length in direction X as the process station 20 , As in the 1 and 2 shown are a movable pick-up cassette 31 and a fixed buffer cassette 32 in two stages at a front part of the transitional section 30 arranged. A peripheral exposure device 33 is in a back part of the crossover section 30 intended. A wafer transport arm 34 is in a central part of the transitional section 30 available. The wafer transport arm 34 is movable in the directions X and Z, and can wafer W to the two cassettes 31 and 32 and the peripheral exposure device 33 move. Furthermore, the wafer transport arm 34 rotatable in the direction θ, and can wafer W to the extension unit (EXT) in the group G4 on the side of the process station ( 20 ) and to an adjacent wafer transport table (not shown) on the side of the exposure apparatus.
The process system of the above construction is arranged in a clean room, thereby improving its purity. Furthermore, a vertical, laminar flow of air is allowed to flow in the system, further increasing the purity of the respective parts of the system. The 4 and 5 explain the flow of cleaning air in the system.
As in 4 shown are air supply chambers 10a . 20a and 30a above the cassette station 10 , the process station 20 and the transitional section 30 intended. Dustproof filters, for example ULPA filters 50 , are on lower surfaces of the air supply chambers 10a . 20a and 30a appropriate. Air gets into the air supply chambers 10a and 30a introduced via branch lines (not shown) which are connected to an air supply or air recirculation line 52 are connected, in which an air supply blower (an air supply device) 51 (which will be described below) is provided. The supplied air flows through the ULPA filters 50 , and clean air flows down into the cassette station 10 and the transition section 30 ,
As in 5 shown is an air intake 25 for supplying air to the wafer transport space 22 the main wafer transport mechanism 21 above the wafer transport space 22 intended. An outlet opening 26 for discharging air from the wafer transport space 22 is below the wafer transport space 22 arranged. The air supply line 52 connects the air inlet 25 and the outlet opening 26 , and air gets through the pipe 52 circulated.
The air supply chamber 20 is between the air intake 25 and the line 52 arranged. The ULPA filter 50 is at the bottom of the chamber 20 appropriate. A chemical filter 53 , which has the task to remove organic contaminants such as amine, is above the air supply chamber 20 intended.
A suction chamber 20b is at a connecting portion between the suction opening 26 and the circulation line 52 intended. A porous one plate 54 that with the suction opening 26 is provided at the top of the suction chamber 20b appropriate. An exhaust fan 55 is in the suction chamber 20b intended. A pressure adjusting device or a slit slider 56 is at a connecting part between the suction chamber 20b and the circulation line 52 intended.
As in the 6A and 6B is shown, the slot slide 56 a stationary, porous plate 56b on that a number of air duct holes 56a and a movable, porous plate 56b horizontally movable under the fixed, porous plate 56b is arranged, and with a number of Einstelllöchern 56c is provided to the associated air duct holes 56a can be aligned. The movable, porous plate 56b is moved in the horizontal direction by a suitable driving device for reciprocating, for example, a cylinder mechanism or a timing belt mechanism, so that through the holes 56a and 56c fixed opening area is set, and the amount of flowing air is controlled. In this way, the pressure in the wafer transport space 22 set. Specifically, the pressure P1 in the wafer transport space can be set at a positive pressure level, that is, at a predetermined pressure level higher than the pressure P2 in the clean room, for example, 0.1 mm H 2 O.
The pressure adjusting device is not limited to the slitter, and may be any device that can adjust the channel area for the air coming out of the transport space 22 is sucked off.
On the other hand, an outside air supply line 57 for supplying outside air on the circulation line 52 between the air supply fan 51 and the slit valve 56 arranged. A slider 58 serving as the air amount adjusting device is in the line 57 arranged. The air supply fan 51 is driven, and the slider 58 is opened to a predetermined extent, whereby the outside air, so cleaning air in the clean room 40 , through the outside air supply line 57 is fed, and in the transport room 22 over the line 52 is introduced. Therefore, outside air is supplied from the outside air supply pipe in an amount corresponding to the amount of that portion (for example, 0.1 to 0.3 m / sec) of the purifying air (for example, 0.3 to 0.5 m / sec) corresponding to the transportation space 22 is supplied, which is consumed at each process unit.
The slider 58 used as the air amount adjusting device may be replaced with another device such as a flow control valve.
A temperature control 59 serving as a temperature control device is at the circulation line 52 between the air supply fan 51 and the air supply chamber 20a intended. The temperature control 59 keeps the temperature of the cleaning air, which is the wafer transport space 22 is supplied to a predetermined level, for example, 23 ° C. Although not shown, a suitable device for controlling the humidity in the pipe 52 be present to thereby the moisture in the wafer transport space 22 to keep at a predetermined level.
The slit valve 56 , the slider 58 , and the temperature control 59 having the above-described constructions are controlled by control signals from a CPU (central processing unit) 60 controlled, which serves as a control device. Specifically, a measurement signal from a pressure / air flow sensor 61 placed on the side of the air intake ( 25 ) in the wafer transport space 22 is provided, the CPU 60 fed. The measurement signal is compared with information previously in the CPU 60 was saved. A control signal obtained by the comparison becomes the slit shifter 56 and the slider 58 fed. In this way, the pressure in the wafer transport space 22 and the amount of cleaning air to be supplied controlled to predetermined values.
Furthermore, a temperature signal from a temperature sensor 62 obtained in the lower part of the wafer transport space 22 is arranged, the CPU 60 fed. The temperature signal comes with before in the CPU 60 stored information is compared, and a received control signal is sent to the temperature controller 59 transfer. In this way, the temperature of the cleaning air flowing through the pipe 52 flows, regulated, for example, to 23 ° C, and the cleaning air at this temperature is the wafer transport space 22 fed. Therefore, the conditions of the wafer transport space 22 Thus, the pressure, the amount of air and the temperature are constantly controlled to predetermined values, and each process performed in the process system is performed under appropriate conditions. Furthermore, the cleaning air flows to the wafer transport space 22 is not supplied from the process system, ie in the clean room. Particles, organic contaminants, etc. generated in the process system do not flow to the clean room.
In the cassette station 10 is how in 4 shown, the space above the coffer table 2 opposite the space for the movement of the wafer transport mechanism 4 by means of a vertically extending partition plate 5 separated from the ceiling of the station 10 hangs. Therefore, downwardly directed air flows separately into both rooms.
In the process station 20 is like in the 4 and 5 shown a ULPA filter 50a arranged on the ceilings of the resist coating units (COT) arranged in the lower stages of the process unit groups G1 and G2. The air, which is the chamber 22 from the circulation line 52 is fed into the resist coating units (COT) via the ULPA filter 50a , In this case, an output signal from a temperature / humidity sensor 63 which is near the output side of the ULPA filter 50a is provided, the CPU 60 fed, and the temperature and humidity of the cleaning air are precisely controlled.
As in 4 shown is an opening 64 for the passage of the wafers W and the transfer arm in a side wall of each spin-unit process unit (COT), (DEV), which is the main wafer transport mechanism 21 is facing. Every opening 64 is provided with a closure (not shown) to prevent particles, organic contaminants, etc. from each unit from entering the region of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 penetration.
In the process station 20 are, as in 1 shown, extending in the vertical direction lines 65 and 66 are provided within the side walls of the process unit groups G3 and G4 which constitute the furnace-type process units which are respectively connected to the process unit groups G1 and G2 constituting the spin-unit process units. Purified air or air conditioned specifically for temperature flows down through the ducts 65 and 66 , As a result of the lines, heat generated in the groups G3 and G4 is kept away from the spinning unit process units of the groups G1 and G3.
The construction and operation of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 in the process station 20 is now with reference to the 7 to 11 described. 7 Fig. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing the construction of a main part of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 shows, 8th Fig. 16 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the construction of the main part of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 shows, 9 is a sectional plan view illustrating the main wafer transport mechanism 21 shows, seen in the direction of an arrow A in 8th . 10 is a side view showing the interior of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 shows, seen in the direction of arrow B in 8th , and 11 is a side view showing the interior of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 shows, seen in the direction of arrow C in 8th ,
Like from the 7 and 8th indicates the main wafer transport mechanism 21 a columnar holder body 70 on, which is a pair of facing vertical wall sections 71 and 72 has, which are connected together at their upper and lower ends. A wafer transport part 73 is inside the retainer body 70 arranged so that it can move in the vertical direction (in the direction Z). The columnar holder body 70 is with a rotary shaft of a rotary drive motor 74 connected. If the engine 74 is in operation, the holder body rotates 70 on the rotary shaft together with the wafer transport part 73 , The motor 74 is on a base plate 75 attached to the process system, and a flexible cable 76 to supply energy is around the engine 74 wound. The columnar holder body 70 may be attached to another rotary shaft (not shown) by the motor 74 is turned.
The range of vertical movement of the wafer transport body 73 is set so that wafer W through the wafer transport part 73 can be transported to all Prozessinheitsgruppen G1 to G5. The wafer transport part 73 has three bracket forks 78a . 78b and 78c on, which are movable in the direction X (ie, back and forward direction), and on a transport base 77 are provided. Each support fork can pass through a side opening between both vertical wall sections 71 and 72 the columnar holder body 70 pass. A drive unit in the direction X for movement of each support fork in the direction X has a drive motor and a belt (not shown), which in the transport base 77 are installed.
The topmost fork 78a of the three forks can be used only for the transport of cooled W wafer. Furthermore, heat insulating plates may be present between forks to prevent mutual heat interference.
As in the 8th to 10 shown is a pair of pulleys 80 and 81 at an upper or lower end portion of a substantially central part of the inside of one of the vertical wall portions 71 intended.
A vertical endless drive belt 82 runs between the pulleys 80 and 81 , The transport base 77 of the wafer transport part 73 is with the vertical drive belt 82 via a belt clamp 83 connected. The lower pulley 80 , which serves as a drive pulley, is provided with a drive shaft 84a a drive motor 84 connected to the bottom of the columnar support member 70 is attached.
As in the 9 and 10 Shown are a pair of guide rails 85 in the vertical direction at the right and left end portion of the inside side of the vertical wall section 71 arranged. sliders 87 at distal end portions of a pair of horizontal support rods 86 are provided, which are opposite the side surfaces of the transport base 77 protrude, are in each case in sliding engagement with the guide rails 85 , The wafer transport part 73 can in vertical direction by the driving force of the motor 84 be moved by means of this vertical belt drive mechanism and the vertical slider mechanism.
Furthermore, as in the 9 and 10 shown a rodless cylinder 88 in the vertical direction between a central portion of the interior of the vertical wall portion 71 and one of the guide rails 85 intended. A cylindrical, movable part 88a is slidable on the rodless cylinder 88 intended. The cylindrical, movable part 88a is with the transport base 77 of the wafer transport part 73 by means of a horizontal support rod 86 connected. Because the magnetic part 88a magnetically connected to a piston (not shown) slidable in the cylinders 88 can import the wafer transport part 73 and the piston at the same time by means of the movable part 88a to be moved. Compressed air is supplied by a regulator 89 in the cylinder 88 over an opening 88b fed at the bottom. The pressure of the compressed air essentially corresponds to the weight of the wafer transport part 73 , An opening 88c at the top of the cylinder 88 is open to the outside.
As the weight of the wafer transport part 73 is balanced by the lifting force that is inside the cylinder 88 the wafer transport part can 73 be moved in the vertical direction at high speed, without being influenced by the weight of the wafer transport part 73 , Even if the drive belt 82 is severed, remains beyond the wafer transport part 73 in its place, by the lifting force in the cylinder 88 acts, and is prevented from falling due to its own weight. Therefore, there is no fear that the wafer transport part 73 or the columnar holder body 70 breaks.
As in the 7 . 9 and 11 shown are four sleeves 92 in which are flexible cables 91 for supplying power and control signals to the wafer transport part 73 extend in the vertical direction, in a central region and both side portions of the inside of the vertical wall portion 72 intended. A vertical guide 93 is between facing side surfaces of the two sleeves 93 present, which are provided in the central area. A slider 94 facing the side surface of the transport base 77 is projected by the vertical guidance 93 guided.
As in 10 is shown is a pair of openings 70b in an upper surface of the columnar holder body 70 on both sides of a rotary shaft 70a intended. The above-described cleaning air flows down into the main wafer transport mechanism 21 over the openings 70b , The space for the vertical movement of the wafer transport part 73 So the wafer transport space 22 , is kept clean by the downward cleaning air.
As in 9 Shown are vertical separator plates 71a and 72a within both vertical wall sections 71 and 72 available. cables 71b and 72b be through the back surfaces of the vertical separator plates 71a and 72b and the vertical wall sections 71 and 72 educated. The wires 71b and 72b are related to the interiors of the vertical wall sections 71 and 72 over several suction openings 95 and blowers 95a at predetermined intervals on the vertical dividing plates 71a and 72a are provided. Therefore, dust generated by the movable parts becomes, for example, the vertical drive belt 82 , the rodless cylinder 88 , and the cables 91 , to the wires 71b and 72b through the blowers 95 aspirated. In this case, the suction process is enhanced by the fact that the lowest blowers are supplied with maximum amounts of suction air.
On the wafer transport part 73 stands, as in the 8th and 9 shown the interior of the transport base 77 in connection with the interiors of the vertical wall sections 71 and 72 about blower 96 and the inner hole of the horizontal support rod 86 , Therefore, dust generated by the fork drive motor, the belt, etc., may enter the transport base 77 are installed, to the lines 71b and 72b be sucked off.
Furthermore, a temperature signal from the temperature sensor 62 obtained in the lower area of the wafer transport space 22 is arranged, the CPU 60 fed. The temperature signal is compared with information previously in the CPU 60 has been stored, and the control signal obtained is the temperature control 59 fed. Therefore, the cleaning air that is in the pipe 52 flows, regulated to a predetermined temperature of, for example, 23 ° C, and the cleaning air is at this temperature to the wafer transport space 22 fed.
Therefore, the conditions for the wafer transport space 22 , So pressure, air flow and temperature, are controlled at any time to predetermined values, and is any process that is performed in the process system, in good conditions. Furthermore, the cleaning air flows, the the wafer transport room 22 is not supplied from the process system, ie in the clean room. Particles, organic contaminants, and the like generated in the process system therefore do not flow into the clean room.
When next a description will be given of a wafer transport process while in Wafern W has a number of processes in the above Process system performed becomes.
In the cassette station 10 picks up the wafer transport arm 4a the wafer transport mechanism 4 on the cassette 1 which contains raw wafers W, and removes one of the wafers W from the cassette 1 ,
The wafer transport arm 4a transports the wafer W, which leaves the cassette 1 to the alignment unit (ALIM) located in process unit group G3 on the side of the process station (FIG. 20 ) and arranges the wafer W on the wafer mounting table 24 in the alignment unit (ALIM). Then, the wafer W on the wafer mounting table 24 aligned and centered with respect to the orientation plane. After that, the wafer transport part receives 73 the main wafer transport mechanism 21 the wafer W from the wafer mounting table 24 on the opposite side of the alignment unit (ALIM).
In the process station 20 the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 First, the wafer W onto the adhesion unit (AD) of the process unit group G3. In the adhesion unit (AD), an adhesion process is performed with the wafer W. After the adhesion process is completed, the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer W from the adhesion unit (AD) to the cooling unit (COL) of the process unit group G3 or the cooling unit (COL) of the process unit group G4. In the cooling unit (COL), the wafer is cooled to a predetermined temperature, for example 23 ° C, prior to a resist coating process.
After the cooling process is completed, the wafer W from the cooling unit (COL) through the fork 78a the main wafer transport mechanism 21 and transported to the resist coating unit (COT) of the process unit group G1 or the resist coating unit (COT) of the process unit group G2. In the resist coating unit (COT), a resist is applied to the surface of the wafer W with a uniform thickness by a spin coating method.
After the resist coating process is completed, the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer W from the resist coating unit (COT) to the preheating unit (PREBAKE) of the process unit group G3 or to the preheating unit (PREBAKE) of the process unit group G4. In the preheating unit (PREBAKE), the wafer W is set on a heat plate (not shown) and heated to a predetermined temperature, for example, 100 ° C, for a predetermined time. As a result, residual solvent is evaporated and removed from the coating film on the wafer W. After the preheating process is completed, the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer W from the preheating unit (PREBAKE) to the extending / cooling unit (EXTCOL), the process unit group G4. In the extension / cooling unit (EXTCOL), the wafer W is cooled down to a temperature, for example, 24 ° C, at which the next process, that is, a peripheral exposure process in the peripheral exposure apparatus 33 , is preferably carried out.
Then the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer W to the extension unit (EXT), which is located immediately above, and sets the wafer W on the mounting table (not shown) in this. Once the wafer W has been placed, the wafer transport arm leads 34 of the transitional section 30 through, and receives the wafer W on the opposite side. Then the wafer transport arm transports 34 the wafer W to the peripheral exposure device 33 in the transition section 30 , In the peripheral exposure device 33 the edge portion of the wafer W is exposed.
After the exposure on the circumference has been completed, the wafer transport arm transports 34 the wafer W from the peripheral exposure device 33 to a wafer receiving table (not shown) on the adjacent side of the exposure apparatus. Before the wafer W is transported to the exposure apparatus, the wafer W may be temporarily stored in the buffer cassette as required 32 be kept.
The wafer W, after being fully exposed in the exposure apparatus, is returned to the wafer receiving table on the side of the exposure apparatus. The wafer transport arm 34 of the transitional section 30 performs an access to the wafer take-up table, and receives the wafer W. The wafer transfer arm 34 then transports the wafer W to the extraction unit (EXT) of the process unit group G4 of the process station 20 , and arranges the wafer W on the wafer receiving table. Also in this case, before the wafer W to the process station 20 is transported, the wafer W temporarily in the buffer cassette 32 in the transition section 30 be kept if necessary.
Once the wafer W has been transported to the take-out unit (EXT), the main wafer transport mechanism leads 21 accesses, receives the wafer W on the opposite side, and transports the wafer W to the developing unit (DEV) of the process unit group G1 or the developing unit (DEV) of the process unit group G2. In the developing unit (DEV), the wafer W is placed on a spin chuck, and a developing solution is supplied to the entire resist on the surface of the wafer W by, for example, a spray method. After development, the developing liquid is removed from the wafer surface by a spray liquid.
After the development step is completed, the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer W from the developing unit (DEV) to the post-heating unit (POBAKE) of the process unit group G3 or the post-heating unit (POBAKE) of the process unit group G4. In the post-heating unit (POBAKE), the wafer W is heated to, for example, 100 ° C for a predetermined period of time. As a result, the developed and swollen resist is solidified and its chemical resistance is improved.
After the reheating process is completed, the main wafer transport mechanism transports 21 the wafer from the afterheating unit (POBAKE) to one of the cooling units (COL). In the cooling unit (COL), the temperature of the wafer W is lowered to room temperature. The main wafer transport mechanism 21 transports the cooled wafer W to the extraction unit (EXT) of the process unit group G3. Once the wafer W has been placed on the table (not shown) of the take-out unit (EXT), the wafer transfer arm leads 4a the cassette station 10 through, and receives the wafer W on the opposite side. The wafer transport arm 4a sets the received wafer W into a predetermined wafer receiving groove in the cassette 1 for picking up processed wafers that rest on the cassette mounting table 2 located.
One single process is through the above-mentioned groups finished.
As described above, in the system according to the present embodiment, a plurality of process unit groups, each having a plurality of process units arranged in a plurality of stages, are the wafer transport space 22 of the main wafer transport mechanism 21. The wafer W is made using the main wafer transport mechanism 21 transported, which can move in the vertical direction and in the direction of θ, and which has an extendable and retractable fork. Therefore, wafer access time is reduced and process time for all steps is significantly reduced, resulting in significantly higher throughput. In addition, the space occupied by the entire system can be downsized, so that the costs for the clean room can be reduced.
Furthermore, the cleaning air circulating system is used, through which the cleaning air to the wafer transport space 22 the main wafer transport mechanism 21 is supplied from the top, and is sucked from the bottom. Therefore, particles flow from the main wafer transport mechanism 21 and organic contaminants caused by, for example, the resist coating unit (COT), etc. are not generated in the clean room outside the process system. Therefore, the purity of the clean room can be improved, and the life of the clean room can be prolonged.
Additional cleaning air is achieved by adjusting the slide 58 the outside air inlet opening 57 supplied, whereby the amount of cleaning air is refilled, the wafer transport space 22 is supplied and consumed by each unit. Therefore, at any time a fixed amount of cleaning air to the wafer transport space 22 be supplied. Furthermore, the interior of the wafer transport space 22 at a predetermined overpressure level with respect to the clean room 40 held by controlling the passage of air by means of the slit valve 56 who in the lead 52 is provided, which forms the circulation channel. The temperature of the cleaning air, the wafer transport space 22 can be maintained at a predetermined temperature, for example 23 ° C, by means of the temperature control 59 in the lead 52 is provided, which forms the circulation channel. Therefore, the conditions in the wafer transport space 22 Thus, the pressure, the amount of air and the temperature, are controlled at any time to predetermined values, and each process performed in the process system is in good condition.
When next becomes another embodiment of the present invention.
The basic construction of a resist liquid coating / developing system according to this embodiment is the same as in the previous embodiment. However, in the present embodiment, the structure of the main wafer transfer mechanism differs from that of the main wafer transfer mechanism according to the previous embodiment, as will be described below. In the present embodiment, a main wafer transfer mechanism 21 ' , a cylindrical body 110 which has the transport path of the transport part 73 surrounds, in the wafer transport room 22 provided (see 14 ).
The system according to the present embodiment is also disposed in the clean room, so that the purity is increased. Furthermore, vertical layer flows are efficiently supplied in the system and the purity of each section of the system is further increased. The 12 and 13 explain the flow of cleaning air in the system. In the 12 and 13 are those components which are formed as well as the system according to the previous embodiment, designated by like reference numerals.
In the present embodiment, as in FIG 12 shown, air supply chambers 10a . 20a and 30a above the cassette station 10 , the process station 20 and the transitional section 30 intended. Dustproof filters, for example ULPA filters 50 , are on the lower surfaces of the air supply chambers 10a . 20a and 30a appropriate. Furthermore, as in 13 shown, air conditioning 102 provided outside the rear portion of the process system according to this embodiment. Air is coming from the air conditioner 102 every air supply chamber 10a . 20a . 30a over a line 103 fed. Clean air will go down every station 10 . 20 . 30 from the ULPA filter 50 supplied to each air supply chamber.
The downward flows of the cleaning air are in a suction chamber 104 collected, which is provided on the ground, via a number of air duct holes 40 which are provided at appropriate positions of the lower part of the system. The rivers then become air conditioning 102 from the suction chamber 104 over the line 105 recycled.
The air conditioner 102 may be provided at the upper part of the system in that case when the air supply chambers 10a . 20a and 30a are provided with blowers.
In the process station 20 are, as in 12 shown is separator plates 33a below the ULPA filter 50 providing the space between the process unit group G3 and the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' and the space between the process unit group G4 and the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' divided. The room at the side of group G3 and the room at the side of group G4, passing through the partition plates 33 are separated, in connection with lines 33b which are provided at the rear of the groups G3 and G4. openings 33c are in sidewalls of the pipes ( 33b ) of units of process unit group G3 and G4.
The cleaning air, the ULPA filters 50 is fed directly to the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' , and also flows from the back of each unit to the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' through the pipes 33b and the openings 33c in the units. The cleaning air flows between the groups G3 and G4 and the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' , and passes through the channel holes 40 therethrough.
In the process system according to the present embodiment, the cleaning air is allowed to flow from the back of each unit to the main wafer transfer mechanism 21 ' through the openings 33c flow in the respective units. Therefore, particles flow from the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' are generated, not into the units. In addition, fresh cleaning air can be supplied to the units, which are arranged in several stages, at any time.
As in the 12 and 13 shown is the ULPA filter 50a provided on the ceiling of the resist coating units (COT) arranged in the lower stages in the process unit groups G1 and G2. Air from the air conditioning 102 flows to the filter 50a through a pipe 106 by the line 103 branches. A temperature / humidity control (not shown) is in the middle of the line 106 intended. Therefore, cleaning air having a predetermined temperature and humidity suitable for the resist coating is supplied to the two resist coating units (COT). A temperature / humidity sensor 107 is at the output side of the filter 50a provided, and a sensor output signal from the sensor 107 is supplied to a control unit of the temperature / humidity control. Therefore, the temperature and the humidity of the cleaning air are precisely controlled.
In 13 are openings 64 for the passage of the wafers and the transport arm in those side walls of the spin-type processing units (COT) and (DEV), which are the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' are facing. Every opening 64 is provided with a closure (not shown) to prevent particles or contaminants from each unit from entering the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' penetration.
Next, the construction and operation of the main wafer transfer mechanism 21 ' in the process station 20 with reference to the 14 to 18 described. 14 Fig. 16 is a partially cutaway perspective view schematically showing a main part of the main wafer transfer mechanism 21 ' shows, 15 Fig. 15 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the construction of the main part of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' shows, 16 is a sectional plan view illustrating the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' shows, seen in the direction of an arrow A in 15 . 17 is a side view showing the interior of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' shows, seen in the direction of arrow B in 15 , and 18 is a side view showing the interior of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' shows, seen in the direction of an arrow C in 15 , Also in these figures, components which are also present in the system according to the previous embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.
As in the 14 and 15 shows the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' a cylindrical body 110 in which a wafer transport part 73 , which serves as a transport device, is mounted so that it can move in the vertical direction (Z direction). The cylindrical body 110 is on a rotary shaft of a drive motor 111 supported. If the engine 111 In operation, the cylindrical body rotates 110 on the rotary shaft together with the wafer transport part 73 , The motor 110 is on a base plate 75 attached to the process system, and a flexible cable 76 for the energy supply is around the engine 110 wound. The cylindrical body 110 may be attached to another rotating shaft (not shown) of the engine 110 is turned.
The cylindrical body 110 contains the wafer transport mechanism 73 so that he surrounds it. The cylindrical body 110 is with several openings 110a for transporting wafers W among the process unit groups G1 to G5. The range of vertical movement of the wafer transport body 73 is chosen so that wafer W through the wafer transport part 73 can be transported to all Prozessinheitsgruppen G1 to G5.
The wafer transport part 73 has the same construction as in the previous embodiment. Three support forks 78a . 78b and 78c that can move in the direction of X (ie in the front and back direction) are on a transport basis 77 intended. Each mounting fork can pass through the openings 110a in the cylindrical body 110 pass. As in the previous embodiment, a directional X drive unit includes a drive motor and a belt which fits into the transport base 77 are installed.
The topmost fork 78a The three forks can be used exclusively for transporting cooled wafers W. Furthermore, heat insulating plates may be present between forks to prevent mutual heat interference.
As in the 14 to 16 shown is a pair of pulleys 80 and 81 at an upper or lower end portion of a substantially central part of an inner portion of the cylindrical body 110 present, as in the main wafer transport mechanism 21 according to the previous embodiment. A vertical endless drive belt 82 extends between the pulleys 80 and 81 , The transport base 77 of the wafer transport part 73 is with the vertical drive belt 82 with the help of a belt clamp 83 connected. The lower pulley 80 , which serves as a drive pulley, is provided with a drive shaft 84a of the drive motor 84 connected to the bottom of the cylindrical body 110 is attached.
As in the 16 and 17 shown is a pair of guide rails 85 in an inner region of the cylindrical body 110 provided as in the previous embodiment. sliders 87 at distal end portions of a pair of horizontal support rods 86 are provided, which are opposite the side surfaces of the transport base 77 protrude, each in sliding engagement with an associated guide rail 85 , In this way, the wafer transport part 73 be moved in the vertical direction, as in the previous embodiment.
Furthermore, as in the 16 and 17 shown a rodless cylinder 88 in the vertical direction between a central portion of an inner portion of the cylindrical body 110 and one of the guide rails 85 present as in the previous embodiment. A cylindrical, movable part 88a is slidable on the unsteady cylinder 88 intended. These elements have the same construction as in the previous embodiment. Because the movable part 88a magnetically with a piston in the cylinder 88 may be the wafer transport part 73 and the piston at the same time by means of the movable part 88a to be moved. As in the previous embodiment, compressed air is from a regulator 89 in the cylinder 88 over an opening 88b entered at the bottom. The pressure of the compressed air essentially corresponds to the weight of the wafer transport part 73 , An opening 88c at the top of the cylinder 88 opens to the outside. Also in this embodiment, the wafer transport part 73 be moved in the vertical direction at high speed, without the weight of the wafer transport part 73 to be influenced. Furthermore, even if the drive belt 82 is severed, the wafer transport part 73 held in place by the lifting force in the cylinder 88 and is prevented from falling off due to its weight. Therefore, there is no fear in the respect that the wafer transport part 73 or the cylindrical body 110 breaks.
As in the 14 . 16 and 18 ge shows are four sockets 92 in which flexible cables 91 for supplying power and control signals to the wafer transport part 73 extend in the vertical direction, in a central region and both side regions of the other inner part of the cylindrical body 110 provided as in the previous embodiment. A slider 94 facing the side surface of the transport base 77 is projecting, along a guide 73 passed through the central two sleeves 92 is determined.
As in 14 shown is a pair of inlets 110c for supplying cleaning air into the cylindrical body 110 in an upper surface of the cylindrical body 110 on both sides of a rotary shaft 110b intended. The above-mentioned cleaning air flows from the ceiling side into the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' over the inlets 110c , The space for the vertical movement of the wafer transport part 73 is constantly kept clean by the downward cleaning air.
Each of the inlets 110c is with several slit windows 110d provided as an apparatus for controlling the amount of supplied air. The movable slot windows 110d can be opened so that, for example, an upper of two plate parts 110f , each with slots 110e , is adjusted in the direction X, as shown in 19 is shown. Therefore, the amount of air in the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' is to be let in, thereby controlling that the slit windows 110d to a predetermined extent depending on the external environment of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' be opened. Therefore, the cleaning process can be optimally performed in the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' be performed.
As in the 15 and 16 shown are vertical partition plates 112a and 113a at both inner regions in the cylindrical body 110 provided as in the previous embodiment. cables 112b and 113b be through the back surfaces of the separator plates 112a and 113a and the walls of the cylindrical body 110 educated. air exhaust 112a and 113a which serve as suction devices are in the vicinity of upper and lower end portions of the partition plates 112a respectively. 113a intended. exhaust fan 114a and 115a are at the suction openings 114 and 115 available. Air coming from the exhaust fans 114a and 115a is sucked outwards from the lower part of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' over the wires 112b and 113b issued.
The output of the exhaust fan 114a and 115a be dependent on the operation of the engine 84 controlled. Specifically, if the wafer transport part 73 through the drive motor 84 is raised, the output power of the exhaust fan 114a the air suction openings 114 increased, which are provided near the upper ends. If the wafer transport part 73 through the drive motor 84 is lowered, the output powers of the exhaust fan 115a the air suction openings 115 increased, which are provided near the lower ends.
Therefore, the air is at the upper or lower end of the cylindrical body 110 is to be compressed while the wafer transport part 73 inside the cylindrical body 110 is raised or lowered, to the outside of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' over the air suction openings 114 or 115 aspirated. This causes a pressure change in the cylindrical body 110 is reduced, and prevents particles from the cylindrical body 110 due to a leak of pressurized air near the top and bottom end portions. In particular, a pressure change in the cylindrical body 110 further reduced by setting the amount of air to be sucked from the blowers existing at the lower end portion to a maximum value.
As described above, the outflow of particulates due to leakage of pressurized air can be prevented more effectively by the exhaust fans 114a and 115a at Luftabsaugöffnungen 114 and 115 are present, and the output powers of the exhaust fan 114a and 115a to be controlled. However, the outflow of particles can only be prevented by the fact that the Luftabsaugöffnungen 114 and 115 are present, without the exhaust fan 114a and 115a provided.
The exhaust fan 114a and 115a not only near the air exhaust 114 and 115 (ie the inlets of the pipes 112b and 113b ), but also halfway along the lines 112b and 113b , or at the outlets of the pipes 112b and 113b ,
As in 20 shown can be other lines 112c and 113c outside the lines 112b and 113b be present, and can provide additional air exhaust 117 that with the wires 112c and 113c in communication, near the top of the cylindrical body 110 to be available. In the present embodiment are exhaust fans 114a and 117a at the outlets of the pipes 112b . 113b . 112c and 113c intended. As the downward flow of purge air is present throughout the system, air tends to become more compressed when the wafer transfer member 73 is raised, so in the area near the top of the cylindrical body 110 , Therefore, the leakage of particles due to leakage of pressurized air can be prevented more effectively by the air suction openings near the upper end of the cylindrical body 110 are provided in two stages, as described above.
The interior of the cylindrical body 110 can be set to a vacuum level by providing the exhaust fan 114a and 115a be set. However, the inside of the cylindrical body can 110 also be set by a vacuum level, for example, that an exclusive exhaust fan at the lower part of the cylindrical body 110 is provided, instead of the exhaust fan 114a and 115a , As described above, by displacing the inside of the cylindrical body 110 to a vacuum level, the outflow of particles to each unit from the cylindrical body 110 be prevented.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the cylindrical body 110 so provided that it is the wafer transport part 73 thereby disturbing the air flow due to rotation in the direction θ of the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' to prevent. Therefore, the outflow of particles from the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' to each unit can be effectively prevented, in combination with that construction as described above with reference to 12 has been described, in which the cleaning air from the back of each unit to the main wafer transport mechanism 21 ' over the opening 33c flowing in each unit.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the arrangement and the construction of the parts of the process system are to be understood as exemplary only, and various modifications can be made. For example, in the above embodiments, each of the process unit groups G1 and G2 in the process station 20 Process units of the centrifugal type in two stages, and has each of the process unit groups G3 and G4 open-type processing units and wafer transport units in eight stages. However, there is no limit to the number of levels. It is possible to combine a spin-type process unit with an open-type process unit or a wafer transport unit in a group. Furthermore, another type of process unit, such as a scrub brush unit, may be added.
The positional relationship between the cassette station 10 and the transition section 30 on both sides of the process station 20 are arranged, as in the 1 and 2 can be turned over. In this case, the cassette station 10 and the transition section 30 removable at the process station 20 with the help of suitable connecting parts 97 be mounted (for example, bolts). The control panel 100 Can be removable at the front of the cassette station 10 to be appropriate. Therefore, the layout of the system can be changed easily and no parts need to be redesigned or manufactured, resulting in a reduction in cost.
at The above-described embodiments, the transport mechanism the transport part with three forks. However, there is for the number on forks no limitation.
at the previous embodiments will the processing device according to the present Invention in the Coating / Development Process System for Semiconductor Wafers used. However, lets the processing device according to the present invention also in other process systems. The objects to be edited are not limited to semiconductor wafers. The processing device according to the present The invention can be used, for example, in LCD substrates Glass substrates, CD substrates, photomasks, printed circuit boards, ceramic substrates, etc.
A processing device comprising: a plurality of process unit groups (G1 to G5) each having a plurality of process units for performing an array of processes on an object (w), the process units being vertically arranged in a plurality of stages, and an object transport space ( 22 ) is provided between the process unit groups (G1 to G5); a transport device ( 21 ) for transporting the object (w), wherein the transport device ( 21 ) a transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ), which in the vertical direction in the object transport space ( 22 ) is movable, wherein the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) can transport the object (w) to each of the processing units; an air intake ( 52 ) connects to an upper portion of the object transport space; and a suction opening ( 26 ) which connects to a lower portion of the object transport space; characterized by a circulation tube ( 52 ), which in conjunction with both the air intake ( 25 ) as well as the suction opening ( 26 ) stands; a device ( 51 . 55 ) for circulating air between the object transport space ( 22 ) and the circulation tube ( 52 ); an outside air intake pipe ( 57 ), which outside air in the circulation tube ( 52 ); and a device ( 58 ) located on the outside air intake pipe ( 57 ) is provided to adjust the amount of outside air entering the recirculating 52 ) from the outside air inlet pipe ( 57 ) is admitted.
Machining device according to claim 1, which further comprises a device ( 51 . 57 . 58 . 59 . 60 . 61 ) for controlling the amount of downflow of air formed in the object transport space, and an apparatus ( 56 . 60 . 61 ) for controlling the pressure in the object transport space ( 22 ).
Machining device according to claim 2, which further comprises a temperature sensor device ( 62 ) for measuring a temperature of the object transport space ( 22 ), and a device ( 59 . 60 ) for controlling the temperature of the object transport space ( 22 ) depending on the temperature of the temperature sensor device ( 62 ) is measured.
Processing device according to claim 1, which further comprises a suction device ( 95 . 95a . 96 ) for sucking air, which by the vertical movement of the transport device ( 21 ) is compressed by the object transport space ( 22 ).
Machining device according to claim 1, comprising: a device ( 50 . 52 . 53 . 54 . 55 . 60 ) for forming a cleaning air flow down in the object transport space ( 22 ); and a device ( 33a . 33b . 33c . 40 . 71 . 71a . 71b . 72 . 72a . 72b . 95 . 95a . 96 . 112a . 112b . 113a . 113b . 114 . 114a . 115 . 115a ) for preventing air from the object transport space ( 22 ) into each process unit or into the process unit.
Machining device according to claim 5, characterized in that the device for preventing air from entering, a line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ) in the vertical direction in the object transport space ( 22 ) is provided, and a suction device ( 95a . 96 . 114a . 115a ) for sucking air from the object transport space ( 22 ) to the line ( 71b . 72b ).
Machining device according to claim 5, characterized in that the device for preventing air from entering, a device ( 33a . 33b . 33c . 40 ) for forming a flow of cleaning liquid which is supplied from each of the processing units to the object transport space ( 22 ) flows.
Machining device according to claim 1, comprising: an air inlet ( 20a ) located in an upper area of the object transport space ( 22 ) is provided; a suction opening ( 20b ) located in a lower area in the object transport space ( 22 ) is provided; a pipe ( 52 ) for connecting the air inlet ( 20a ) and the suction opening ( 20b ) to thereby form a circulation channel; and an air supply device ( 50 . 53 . 54 . 55 . 56 . 57 . 58 . 59 . 60 ) for circulating cleaning air from the air inlet ( 20a ) to the suction opening ( 20b ), so that an air flow down in the object transport space ( 22 ) can be formed.
Machining device according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises an air quantity control device ( 51 . 57 . 58 . 59 . 60 . 61 ) to control the amount of air of the circulating cleaning air.
Machining device according to claim 9, characterized in that the air quantity control device has an outside air inlet section ( 57 ) for the admission of outside air, and a slide ( 58 ) located in the outside air inlet section (FIG. 57 ) is provided.
Machining device according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a pressure control device ( 56 . 60 . 61 ) for controlling the pressure in the object transport space ( 22 ) having.
Machining device according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a temperature control device ( 60 . 62 ) for controlling the temperature of the object transport space ( 22 ) having.
Machining device according to claim 9, characterized in that the transport device ( 21 ) a mounting part ( 70 . 110 ) for holding the transport part, wherein the mounting part ( 70 . 110 ) in the vertical direction in the object transport space ( 22 ), and the mounting part ( 70 . 110 ) a line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ), which in the vertical direction in the support part ( 70 . 110 ) is provided, and a suction device ( 95a . 96 . 114a . 115a ) for sucking air from the object transport space ( 22 ) to the line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ).
Machining device according to claim 13, characterized in that the suction device has a suction opening ( 95 . 114 . 115 ) and a suction line ( 33b . 71b . 112b . 113b ) having.
Machining device according to claim 1, comprising: a line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ) in the vertical direction in the object transport space ( 22 ) is provided; and a suction device ( 95 . 95a . 96 . 114 . 114a . 115 . 115a ) for the extraction of air due to the vertical movement of the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) was compressed, to the line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ).
Machining device according to claim 4 or 15, characterized in that the suction device has a suction opening ( 95 . 114 . 115 ) and a suction fan ( 95a . 114a . 115a ) having.
Machining device according to claim 16, characterized in that the suction device suction openings ( 20a . 20b ), which at the upper and lower end portion of the line ( 71b . 72b . 112b . 113b ), exhaust fans ( 55 ), which are the suction openings ( 20b ), and a device for increasing the output of the exhaust fan ( 55 ), which correspond to the upper end portion of the transport device ( 21 ) are assigned when the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) and to increase the output of the exhaust fan ( 55 ), the lower end portion of the transport device ( 21 ) are assigned when the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) is lowered.
Machining device according to claim 4, 13 or 15, characterized in that the suction device a plurality of suction openings ( 20b . 95 . 114 . 115 ), which are arranged in the vertical direction, and exhaust fan ( 95a . 114a . 115a ), which are the suction openings ( 20b . 95 . 114 . 115 ), wherein the amount of extracted air is the largest of those suction fan, which is associated with the lowest suction opening.
Machining device according to claim 17, characterized in that the suction device another suction opening ( 117 ) at an upper end portion of the pipe ( 112b . 113b ) having.
Machining device according to claim 15, characterized in that the transport device comprises a frame body ( 70 ), which determines the range of movement of the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) surrounds.
Machining device according to claim 5, 8 or 15, characterized in that the pressure in the object transport space ( 22 ) is set higher than the external pressure of the device.
Machining device according to claim 1, wherein the transport device ( 21 ) a frame body ( 70 ), which defines the area for the movement of the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) surrounds; the device is a device ( 50 . 52 . 53 . 54 . 55 . 60 ) for forming a cleaning air flow down in the object transport space ( 22 ) having; and a device ( 33a . 33b . 33c . 40 ) for generating a flow of cleaning air supplied from each of the process units to the object transport space ( 22 ), wherein the cleaning air coming out of each of the processing units out to the object transport space ( 22 ) flows down along the outside of the frame body ( 70 ) flows downwards as a result of the cleaning air flow.
Machining device according to claim 22, characterized in that the frame body ( 70 ) has a cylindrical shape.
Machining device according to claim 22, characterized in that the pressure in the frame body ( 70 ) is lower than the pressure in another area of the object transport space ( 22 ).
Machining device according to claim 22, characterized in that an upper part of the frame body ( 70 ) with an inlet opening ( 70b ) is provided for introducing cleaning air.
Machining device according to claim 25, characterized in that the inlet opening ( 70b ) is provided with a control device for controlling the amount of air to be admitted.
Machining device according to claim 5, 8, 15 or 22, characterized in that the transport device ( 21 ) several transport parts ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) having.
Machining device according to claim 4, characterized in that the suction device suction openings ( 95 . 115 ), which at the upper and the lower end portion of the transport device ( 21 ), exhaust fans ( 95a . 115a ), which are the suction openings ( 95 . 115 ) and a device ( 60 . 84 ) for increasing the output of the exhaust fan ( 95a . 115a ), which are associated with the upper end portion of the transport device, when the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) and to increase the output of the exhaust fan ( 95a . 115a ), the lower end portion of the transport device ( 21 ) are assigned when the transport part ( 73 . 78a . 78b . 78c ) is lowered.
The processing device of claim 1, further comprising: a pressure sensor device ( 61 ) for measuring a pressure in the object transport space; and a device ( 56 . 60 ) for controlling the pressure in the object transport space according to that of the pressure sensor device ( 61 ) measured pressure.
DE69735514T 1996-01-26 1997-01-24 Device for the treatment of semiconductor wafers Expired - Lifetime DE69735514T2 (en)
JP3124996 1996-01-26
JP13726496A JP3342803B2 (en) 1996-05-30 1996-05-30 Processing apparatus and substrate transfer method
JP13726496 1996-05-30
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