Patent ID: 12188119

DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings that show, by way of illustration, exemplary details and features.

With respect to magnetic fields and sputtering, the spatial distribution of the plasma channel or the associated atomization rate depends very sensitively on the spatial distribution of the magnetic field. Therefore, the magnet system is of special importance with respect to various process properties, such as process stability, reproducibility, target utilization and homogeneity. Against this background, there is a fundamental need to improve the magnet system, for example to simplify it and/or to reduce disturbing influences.

According to various embodiments, it has been illustratively recognized that the deflection of the magnet system may be such a disturbing influence quantity. More specifically, the deflection of the magnet system is often greater than the deflection of the target. Because of this, as the target is consumed, the separation between the magnet system and the target changes along the length of the target, with the separation at the exact center being maximum or minimum depending on the direction of gravity.

A major component of a tubular magnetron is the magnet system, which generates the magnetic field (i.e. magnet-field) to form the racetrack. The strength of the magnetic field along the length of the tube target has a significant influence on the homogeneity of the deposited functional layer on the substrate. By varying the field strength in individual areas, the layer homogeneity may be specifically adjusted. For this reason, the magnet system is conventionally designed in such a way that the separation between magnet and target surface may be adjusted.

Since the adjustability of the height difference of the magnets is limited, an attempt is made to achieve the most homogeneous conditions possible for the magnet system and the environment, such as a homogeneous pressure distribution, which also has an influence on the homogeneity of the functional layer.

Other variations, such as the gravity-induced deflection of components such as tubes and carriers between the bearing points, may only be reduced to a limited extent in this way, however, since the separation of bearing points often cannot be selected without restriction and the factors influencing deflection (bending rigidity and dead weight) cannot be set at will. The pipe target may be mentioned here as an example. The support width of the bearing points (by means of the end blocks) is given by the substrate width. Between the end blocks, the target tube is cantilevered and will therefore deflect in the direction of gravity. For a carrier with a homogeneous mass distribution along its length, the deflection (v) is proportional to the specific mass (q) through the Young's modulus (E) times the area moment of inertia (I) according to the following relation:
v˜qE*I.

The amount (e.g. thickness) of the target material has an influence on q and I, and the type of target material has an influence on q and E. The deflection of the target is thus a function of the type and amount of target material, with the amount of target material decreasing as it is consumed over time. The magnet system in the target tube, in turn, has a constant deflection over time between the bearing points, since under normal conditions the factors influencing the deflection remain unchanged. This results in a change in the relative position (e.g. the separation) between the magnet system and the target depending on the type of target material (e.g. when using different targets), the magnetic field strength as well as the consumption state of the target material.

According to various embodiments, a magnet system is provided that achieves that the deflection of the magnet system may be changed (e.g., adjusted to match the deflection of the target) or may at least be adjusted to set a change in distance (e.g., at the target tube ends) according to a specification. The magnet system provided may be used, for example, for a tube magnetron (e.g., for use in a PVD process).

In the following, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form part thereof and in which are shown, for illustrative purposes, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “forward”, “rearward”, etc. is used with reference to the orientation of the figure(s) described. Since components of embodiments may be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is for illustrative purposes and is not limiting in any way. It is understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of protection. It is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined, unless otherwise specifically indicated. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be construed in a limiting sense, and the scope of protection is defined by the appended claims.

In the context of this description, the terms “connected”, “attached” as well as “coupled” are used to describe both a direct and an indirect connection (e.g. ohmic and/or electrically conductive, e.g. an electrically conductive connection), a direct or indirect connection as well as a direct or indirect coupling. In the figures, identical or similar elements are given identical reference signs where appropriate.

According to various embodiments, the term “coupled” or “coupling” may be understood in the sense of a (e.g. mechanical, hydrostatic, thermal and/or electrical), e.g. direct or indirect, connection and/or interaction. For example, a plurality of elements may be coupled together along an interaction chain along which the interaction may be exchanged, e.g., a fluid (then also referred to as fluidically coupled). For example, two coupled elements may exchange an interaction with each other, e.g., a mechanical, hydrostatic, thermal, and/or electrical interaction. A coupling of a plurality of vacuum components (e.g., valves, pumps, chambers, etc.) to each other may have them fluidically coupled to each other. According to various embodiments, “coupled” may be understood in the sense of a mechanical (e.g., bodily or physical) coupling, e.g., by means of direct physical contact. A coupling may be configured to transmit a mechanical interaction (e.g., force, torque, etc.).

As used herein, the term “bearing device” means a device (for example, comprising an assembly) configured for bearing (e.g., guided positioning and/or holding) one or more than one component. The bearing device may comprise, for example per component (which is supported by means thereof), one or more than one bearing for supporting (e.g. guided positioning and/or holding) the component. Each bearing of the bearing device may be configured to provide the component with one or more than one degree of freedom (for example, one or more than one translational degree of freedom and/or one or more than one rotational degree of freedom) according to which the component may be moved. Examples of a bearing have: Radial bearing, thrust bearing, radial-axial bearing, linear bearing (also referred to as linear guide).

In some embodiments, a bearing device is provided that supports (e.g., holds) the component (e.g., a carrier) at a plurality of locations on the component (also referred to as bearing locations or bearing points), e.g., receiving a weight of the component at each of the bearing locations. Each of the plurality of bearing points may be provided by means of a (e.g., movable) support of the bearing device. A fixed bearing (i.e., immovable support) blocks all three translational degrees of freedom of the bearing location and optionally provides one or more than one rotational degree of freedom to the bearing location (i.e., allows one or more rotations of the bearing location). A floating bearing (i.e., movable support) provides at least one translational degree of freedom and optionally one more than one rotational degree of freedom to the bearing position, i.e., this blocks only one or two translational degrees of freedom (for example, the translational degree of freedom along the direction of gravity) of the bearing position.

The term “sputtering” refers to the atomization of a material (also referred to as coating material or target material), which is provided as a so-called target, by means of a plasma. The atomized components of the target material are thus separated from each other and may be deposited elsewhere, for example to form a layer. Sputtering may be performed by means of a so-called sputtering device, which may have a magnet system (in which case the sputtering device is also referred to as a magnetron). For sputtering, the magnetron may be placed in a vacuum processing chamber so that sputtering may be performed in a vacuum. To this end, the environmental conditions (the process conditions) within the vacuum processing chamber (e.g., pressure, temperature, gas composition, etc.) may be adjusted or controlled during sputtering. For example, the vacuum processing chamber may be or may be configured to be air-tight, dust-tight, and/or vacuum-tight, such that a gas atmosphere having a predefined composition or pressure (e.g., according to a set point) may be provided within the vacuum processing chamber. For example, an ion-forming gas (process gas) or a gas mixture (e.g., of a process gas and a reactive gas) may be or be provided within the vacuum processing chamber. In a reactive magnetron sputtering process, for example, the atomized material may react with a reactive gas (e.g., comprising oxygen, nitrogen, and/or carbon) and the resulting reaction product (e.g., a dielectric) may be deposited.

Sputtering may be performed by means of a so-called tubular magnetron, in which a tubular target (also referred to as a tube target or tubular cathode) rotates axially around the magnet system. The tube target may, for example, comprise a tube on which the target material may be fixed as a layer on an outer circumferential surface of the tube and may partially cover the circumferential surface of the tube. However, the tube target may also be formed from the target material. By adjusting the magnetic system or by changing the magnetic field generated thereby, the atomization of the target material and thus the spatial distribution with which the target is removed may be influenced.

The tubular cathode and magnet system may be supported by means of a bearing device (also referred to as a target bearing device) that rotatably supports the tubular cathode relative to the magnet system, for example. The bearing device may have, for example, one or more than one end block, each end block of the bearing device holding an end portion of the tubular cathode and magnet system, respectively. The bearing device (e.g., its one or more than one end block) may further provide a supply of electrical power, rotary motion, and/or cooling fluid to the tubular cathode. Optionally, the sputtering device, or bearing device thereof, may also be configured to hold two targets together with the magnet system disposed therein (also referred to as a double magnetron) when the sputtering device is configured in a double tube configuration.

According to various embodiments, an end block (then also referred to as a drive end block) of the sputtering device may include a drive train for transmitting rotational motion to the tubular cathode, which may be coupled to a drive, for example. Alternatively or additionally, an end block (also referred to as a media end block) of the sputtering device may be configured to supply and discharge cooling fluid (e.g., a water-based mixture) that may be passed through the cathode.

However, exactly one end block (also referred to as a compact end block) may be used, which has the drive train and fluid line and thus provides the functions of a drive end block and a media end block together. For example, the side of the tubular target opposite the compact end block may be freely cantilevered (i.e., freely suspended), which is referred to as a cantilever configuration. The compact end block may be mounted in cantilever configuration to a side wall of the vacuum chamber through which the axis of rotation of the tubular target extends. However, the side of the tube target opposite the compact end block may also be supported by means of a bearing block (illustratively a thrust bearing), which is referred to as a bearing block configuration. The bearing block may also be provided by means of a passive end block, i.e. an end block which does not exchange energy or material with the tube target, but only supports it.

According to various embodiments, the magnet system may have a length (extent along the longitudinal extent, longitudinal direction, and/or axis of rotation of the target) in a range from 0.5 m (meter) approximately to approximately 6 m, e.g., in a range from 2 m approximately to approximately 5 m and/or greater than 3 m.

The magnet system may be multipolar, i.e., have multiple magnetic poles. Of the plurality of magnetic poles, a first magnetic pole (also referred to as an outer pole) may extend along a self-contained path (also referred to as a circulatory path) and a second magnetic pole may be disposed within the area enclosed by the circulatory path (also referred to as an inner pole). The circulatory path may be oval-shaped, for example.

Each magnetic pole may have a plurality of pole bodies, e.g. magnets (then also referred to as a row of magnets or magnet row), lined up in series, each pole body being magnetized or having a magnetization. For example, each row of magnets may have at least 10 (e.g., at least 100) pole bodies, e.g., magnets, per meter. For example, each magnetic pole may have one or more than one magnetic row. For example, three rows of magnets arranged between the end pieces of the magnet system may provide substantially the center region of the magnet system (illustratively one row as the inner pole, one row of magnets on each side of the inner pole as the outer pole).

As used herein, the term “pole body” means a body having or formed from a magnetic material (also referred to as magnetic material). For example, the pole body may be adjacent to or part of a magnetic pole. The magnetic material may be, for example, ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic. The magnet material may comprise or be formed from hard-magnetic magnet material and/or soft-magnetic magnet material. The magnet material may have a magnetic polarization, such as a magnetization, such that a dipole is provided.

For example, the hard-magnetic magnet material may have a coercive field strength greater than about 500 kiloamperes per meter (kA/m), such as greater than about 1000 kA/m. The hard magnetic magnet material may, for example, be part of or form part of one or more than one permanent magnet (also referred to as a constant magnet). A permanent magnet (also referred to as a constant magnetic pole body) may be understood to be a body of a hard-magnetic magnet material. The hard-magnetic magnet material may, for example, comprise a chemical compound and/or an alloy.

For example, the hard magnetic magnet material may comprise the elements iron, cobalt, and/or nickel (e.g., a ferrite). The hard magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from a rare earth metal (such as neodymium, samarium, praseodymium, dysprosium, terbium, and/or gadolinium), iron, cobalt, and/or nickel. For example, the hard-magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from at least neodymium, iron, and/or boron, e.g., a chemical compound thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the hard magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from at least aluminum, nickel, and/or cobalt, e.g., a chemical compound thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the hard magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from at least samarium and/or cobalt, e.g. a chemical compound thereof.

For example, the hard magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from neodymium-iron-boron (Nd2Fe14B) or samarium-cobalt (SmCo5and Sm2Co17). More generally, the hard magnetic magnet material (e.g., the or each permanent magnet) may comprise or be formed from a rare earth magnet material (such as neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) or samarium-cobalt (SmCo)), a ferrite magnet material (e.g., a hard ferrite magnet material), a bismanol magnet material, and/or an aluminum-nickel-cobalt magnet material.

For example, the soft-magnetic magnet material may have a coercivity of less than about 500 kA/m, e.g., of less than about 100 kA/m, e.g., of less than about 10 kA/m, e.g., of less than about 1 kA/m. The soft magnetic magnet material may comprise or be formed from, for example, an alloy of iron, nickel, and/or cobalt, steel, a powder material, and/or a soft ferrite (e.g., comprising nickel tin and/or manganese tin).

For example, the magnetic (e.g., soft magnetic and/or hard magnetic) material may have a magnetic permeability of about 10 or more, e.g., about 100 or more, e.g., about 103or more, e.g., about 104or more, e.g., about 105or more.

In general, the outer pole and the inner pole may be at a separation from each other and/or differ from each other in their magnetization direction and/or in their number of magnets. In the simplest case, the magnetization directions of the outer pole and inner pole are exactly opposite, e.g., antiparallel. However, in more complex implementations, they may be skewed with respect to each other, e.g., including an angle (also referred to as magnetization deviation). For example, the magnetization deviation may be about 90° or more (e.g., 120° or more, e.g., 150° or more, e.g., 160° or more, e.g., 170° or more, e.g., about 180°).

In an exemplary implementation, the inner pole may be magnetized toward and/or away from the target material on a (e.g., magnetic) magnet carrier (also called a magnet holder), and the outer pole may be magnetized away from the (e.g., magnetic) magnet carrier/holder and/or toward the target material. Alternatively, the outer pole may be magnetized toward and/or away from the (e.g., magnetic) magnet carrier/holder and the inner pole may be magnetized away from the (e.g., magnetic) magnet carrier/holder and/or toward the target material. In an exemplary implementation, the outer pole and the inner pole, e.g., their magnetization directions, may be configured (e.g., aligned and/or arranged) such that they provide (optionally together with the magnetic material in the environment), a tunnel-like to parallel magnetic field line path to the target surface.

A magnet may be understood herein as an exemplary pole body comprising a magnetized material having a magnetization and being illustratively configured as a permanent magnet. For example, the magnet may comprise a rare earth magnet (such as neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB)) or samarium-cobalt (SmCo)), a ferrite magnet, a bismanol magnet, and/or an aluminum-nickel-cobalt magnet. What is described herein with respect to magnets may apply by analogy to pole bodies of other types.

The magnet system (e.g., its magnet bar) may optionally comprise a plurality of sequentially arranged and/or spatially separated (e.g., multi-pole) segments (also referred to as magnet system segment or as magnet system group), of which two segments (also referred to as reversing segments or end pieces) are arranged at the end faces (illustratively at the magnet system end) of the magnet system and of which one or more than one optional segment (also referred to as center piece) is arranged between the end pieces. For example, in each center piece, the circulatory path may have two rectilinear sections between which the inner pole is disposed. In each of the end pieces, the circulatory path may be arcuate and/or angled. Reference is made herein, by way of example, to a magnet system having a plurality of magnet system groups, although what is described with respect thereto may also apply to an unsegmented magnet system, or what is described with respect to one magnet system group may apply by analogy to a plurality of magnet system groups, and vice versa.

The term “non-magnetic” may be understood to mean substantially magnetically neutral, e.g., also slightly paramagnetic or diamagnetic. For example, the term “non-magnetic” may be understood as having a magnetic permeability of substantially 1, i.e. in a range of about 0.9 to about 1.1. Examples of a non-magnetic material include: Graphite, aluminum, platinum, copper, aluminum, non-magnetic stainless steel, a ceramic (e.g., an oxide).

FIG.1illustrates a magnet system100according to various embodiments in a schematic detailed view, e.g., looking at the direction101(also referred to as reference direction101) along which the magnet system100is longitudinally extended.

The magnet system100may include a plurality of magnets104and a carrier160configured to support the magnets104of the magnet system100. The support structure160may include at least one (i.e., one or more than one) carrier102,202(also referred to as a magnet carrier or magnet holder), a first carrier102(also referred to as a first magnet carrier/holder or system carrier) of which is configured to support one or more than one magnet system group150of the magnet system100(e.g., magnets104thereof).

For example, the magnet system100may have one or more than one magnet system group150per system support102, e.g., may have a plurality of magnet system groups150per system support102. For example, the magnet system100may have (e.g., per system support102) 2 magnet system groups150or more, e.g., may have 3 magnet system groups150or more.

Each magnet system group150may include a plurality (e.g., three or more) of magnets104and may optionally be configured to be adjustable. For example, a magnet104of a magnet system group150may have a magnetization, e.g., either with a direction (also referred to as a magnetization direction) toward or away from the system support102. At least two magnets104per magnet system group150may differ in their magnetization direction.

Examples of components or implementations of the system support102include: a tube (e.g., a lance tube), a plate (e.g., a sheet), a section member, or the like. For example, the system support102may comprise or consist of a sectional support, e.g., comprising a U-section, e.g., comprising a double U-section (also referred to as an H-section).

Each adjustably configured magnet system group150may include an adjustment device150s, for example, disposed (e.g., partially) between the system support102and the magnet(s)104of the magnet system group150. The adjustment device150smay be configured to change a spatial distribution of the magnetic field120generated by the magnet system group150, for example by changing a spatial distribution (e.g., position and/or orientation) of the magnet(s)104of the magnet system group150.

For example, the adjustment device150smay be a component of the support structure160and configured to change the spatial position and/or orientation of at least one magnet of the magnet system100.

Exemplary components of the adjustment device150sinclude: a bearing device116(also referred to as a group bearing device) and/or an actuator106. The adjustment device150s(e.g., its group bearing device116and/or actuator106) may couple the or each magnet104of the magnet system group150to the system support102.

If one or more than one magnet system group150of the magnet system100is configured to be adjustable, or if the magnet system100comprises one or more than one adjustment device150s, the support structure160may comprise, e.g. per magnet system group150, a second carrier202(also referred to as a second magnet carrier/holder or as a group carrier) configured to support the plurality of magnets104(cf. alsoFIG.2) of the magnet system group150. In that case, the or each group carrier202may be magnetic (then providing the so-called return carrier) and the system carrier102may be non-magnetic. If the magnet system100does not have a group carrier202, the system carrier102may be magnetic (then providing the so-called return carrier). In some embodiments, the return carrier may be plate-shaped or include at least one plate (then also referred to as a return plate).

The group bearing device116may provide the magnets104with one or more than one translational degrees of freedom111, of which a first translational degree of freedom111may be along the reference direction101and/or one or more than one second translational degrees of freedom may be transverse to the reference direction101.

The actuator106may be configured to mechanically move the magnets104according to the or each translational degree of freedom111(also referred to as actuation). To this end, the actuator106may be coupled to the magnet104and the system support102such that when the actuator106is actuated, an attitude (i.e., orientation and/or position) of the magnet104relative to the system support102may be changed, e.g., according to a desired state.

To generate the motion, the actuator106may include an electromechanical transducer (e.g., an electric motor or piezoelectric actuator). The electromechanical transducer may be configured to generate translational motion (e.g., in the case of a linear electric motor) or to generate rotational motion (e.g., in the case of a rotary electric motor). To transmit motion to the magnets104, the actuator106may optionally include a gearbox (also referred to as an actuator).

To supply electrical power (also referred to as supply power) to the actuator106and/or to supply a control signal to the actuator106, the actuator106may be coupled to one or more than one electrical line108. In principle, the control signal and the supply power may be supplied together via one line108. However, they may also be supplied via separate lines108.

For example, the or each magnet system group150of the magnet system100may include a plurality of magnets104, e.g., per actuator106. For example, the magnet system group150may include (e.g., per actuator106) at least three magnets104or more, e.g., at least six magnets104or more, e.g., at least 9 magnets104or more, e.g., at least 12 magnets104or more, e.g., at least 15 magnets104or more, e.g., at least 21 magnets104or more, e.g., at least 30 magnets104or more.

FIG.2illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments200in a schematic perspective view.

According to various embodiments, the magnet system100, e.g., each of its magnet system groups150, may comprise a plurality of magnet rows204a,204i, e.g., three magnet rows arranged in rows and spatially separated from each other, which are mounted on (e.g., magnetically coupled to) a common group carrier202. Each of the magnet rows204a,204imay have a plurality of magnets of one magnetization direction arranged in series. The magnets may be arranged and aligned such that the adjacent rows of magnets204a,204ihave opposite magnetization directions with respect to each other. For example, the outer two rows of magnets204amay be magnetized away from the system support102, where the centrally disposed row of magnets204imay be magnetized toward the system support102(or vice versa).

At least the middle magnet row204, which is arranged between two outer magnet rows204, may be longitudinally extended in direction101. Alternatively or additionally, a gap extending longitudinally in direction101(also referred to as direction101of the longitudinal extension) may be arranged between two directly adjacent magnet rows204, which separates them spatially from each other.

FIG.3Aillustrates a sputtering device300according to various embodiments in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view, andFIG.3Billustrates the magnet system100of the sputtering device300in a schematic detailed view300b.

The sputtering device300may include a bearing device350(also referred to as a target bearing device) for rotatably supporting a tubular target302(also referred to as a tube target). The target bearing device350may include one or two end blocks312a,312b, wherein the tubular target302may be rotatably supported by means of the end blocks312a,312b, for example about an axis of rotation311. To this end, the target bearing device350(e.g., each end block312a,312b) may include one or more than one corresponding pivot bearing. Per pivot bearing, for example, a target coupling301(e.g., comprising a flange) may be rotatably supported to which the tubular target302may be coupled. The axis of rotation311may be along direction101.

A first end block312aof the target bearing device350may be configured as a drive end block312a, i.e., having a drive train302afor rotating the tubular target302. A second end block312bof the target bearing device350or the first end block312amay be configured as a media end block312b, i.e., for supplying and discharging a cooling fluid (e.g., comprising water) and/or for supplying electrical power to the tubular cathode302. The cooling fluid may be directed through the tubular target302.

The drive train302amay be coupled to or include a drive device (e.g., a motor) disposed outside of the drive end block312a. By means of the drive train302a, torque may be coupled to the tubular target302for driving rotational movement of the tubular target302.

Further, the sputtering device300may include the magnet system100held by means of the bearing device350, e.g., stationary and/or rotationally fixed. For example, the magnet system100may remain in a fixed orientation with respect to the bearing device350as the tubular target302rotates (around the system support102). The axis of rotation311or direction101may be parallel to a longitudinal extent of the system support102. The axis of rotation311may optionally be disposed within the magnet system100.

The bearing device350may comprise a target coupling301per end block312a,312bby means of which the tubular target302may be coupled, e.g. to the drive train302aand/or to the cooling fluid supply (e.g. comprising one or more than one fluid line). For example, the target coupling301may include a releasable connection that may allow mounting and dismounting of the tubular target302.

Detail300billustrates an exemplary pair of magnet system assemblies150, each magnet system assembly comprising an assembly support202; a plurality of magnets104coupled together (e.g., magnetically) by the assembly support202; and an electrical actuator106configured to adjust the position of the assembly supports202and/or the magnets104relative to the system support102and/or relative to each other in response to the electrical control signal provided to the actuator106. For example, the actuator106may be configured to impart translational motion (e.g., along or across direction101) to one of the two magnet system assemblies150. The actuator106includes, for example, an electric motor106mand an optional gearbox106g. The gearbox106gmay couple the motor106mto the group support202.

FIG.4illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments400in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view (looking along the reference direction), in which the magnet system100includes a longitudinally extending magnet bar352(also referred to as a magnet beam).

The magnet bar352includes the support structure160and the plurality of magnets104, for example, the system support102and a magnet system group150or a plurality of magnet system groups150arranged in series (arranged along the longitudinal extent of the magnet bar352or the axis of rotation311).

As explained above, the system support102may comprise or consist of a profile support, for example with a U-profile, e.g. (as shown) a double U-profile (also referred to as H-profile), or the like. The U-section (or double U-section) allows for high stability while providing sufficient installation space for one or more than one additional component402of the magnet system100.

Examples of the additional component402of the solenoid system100include: the actuator150sor at least its actuator106and/or group bearing device116, an electrical component450(e.g., a processor or other circuit, a generator, an inverter, or the like).

In some, but not necessarily all, embodiments, the magnet system100includes a base frame414(also referred to as a bearing frame414) and one or more than one support device404, e.g., a first support device404and a second support device404(see alsoFIG.9).

The or each support device404may be mounted to the magnet bar352(e.g., the system support102thereof) and may be mated (e.g., interlocked) with the bearing frame414to form a bearing (e.g., floating bearing) for the magnet bar352. For example, the bearing frame414and the support device404may be mated together to form a bearing point (e.g., a floating bearing). Optionally, the magnet bar352may be provided with multiple storage points (also referred to as multi-point storage) using a plurality of support devices404mounted to the magnet bar352and joined to the bearing frame414. For example, the bearing frame414may include two storage components414a,414b(also referred to as base rack storage components) between which the magnet bar352is disposed, in which case the or each support device404includes one support component404a,404bper storage component414a,414bbetween which the magnet bar352is disposed.

In an exemplary implementation, the or each support component404a,404bcomprises or consists of a bolt (also referred to as a bearing bolt). For example, the multi-point bearing may include one support device404per bearing location, each support device404of which includes two bearing bolts as support components404a,404bbetween which the system support102is disposed.

In an exemplary implementation, the bearing frame414may include two rails (e.g., guide rails) as base frame storage components414a,414b, or the base frame storage components414a,414bmay be rail-shaped. For example, each of the guide rails may have a groove (then also referred to as a groove profile) extending along the reference direction101and/or along the longitudinal extent of the system support102(also referred to as the system support).

In some, but not necessarily all, embodiments, the magnet system100comprises: a housing406g(illustratively a hollow body) having a housing interior406h(also referred to as an inner housing) in which the magnet bar352is disposed, and/or a condensation trap408. The condensation trap408may be adjacent to or at least partially (i.e., partially or fully) disposed within the housing interior406hand configured to dry the housing interior406h. For example, the condensation trap408may include one or more than one fluid conduit408f, such as two or more (e.g., three, four, or more than four) fluid conduits408f.

In an exemplary implementation, the condensation trap408comprises one or more than one pair of fluid lines408fbetween which a base frame bearing component414a,414b(e.g., a guide rail) or at least a portion of the base frame bearing component414a,414bis disposed. Alternatively or additionally, the condensation trap408has one or more than one fluid conduit408fthat contacts, e.g., is optionally connected to, the base frame414, e.g., its rack storage component(s)414a,414b. This increases the heat transfer between them and/or the stiffness of the bearing frame414.

In a particularly simple and cost-effective implementation, the housing406gis tubular (e.g., comprising a housing tube). This increases the compactness and/or rigidity of the magnet system100.

For example, the system carrier102includes a carrier profile and supports each group carrier202(e.g., back plate202), the magnets104supported by means of the group carrier202, and the optional electrical or electronic components402.

FIG.5illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments500in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view, in which the magnet system100comprises a (e.g., fluid-tight, e.g., vacuum-tight) chamber406(also referred to as a system chamber406) comprising the housing406gand one or more than one cover406d(also referred to as a connector cover406dor housing cover). The or each lid406dmay be configured to close (e.g., fluid-tight, e.g., vacuum-tight) the housing406gend-to-end (e.g., from or in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the magnet bar352or axis of rotation311). Optionally, at least one connection lid406dof the system chamber406may be configured to supply the or each magnet system group150of the magnet system100(then also referred to as a supply lid), e.g., with mechanical energy and/or electrical energy. To this end, the supply cover406dmay include a gear stage, a generator, a communication interface, and/or a rotary coupling (e.g., a rotor through-coupling or a rotary union).

FIG.6illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments600in a schematic perspective view looking at a front face of the housing406g. The housing406gmay have one or more than one opening602(also referred to as housing opening602) on the front side, which exposes the housing interior406hand may be covered by means of the optional connection cover406dif required. The housing406gmay be supported by means of the target bearing device350, e.g., disposed or received between the bearing points thereof (e.g., the end blocks312a,312b).

For example, the system support102may be point supported in the housing406gby means of the bearing frame414, e.g., by means of a plurality of bearing points (also referred to as multi-point bearings), which facilitates adjusting the deformation (e.g., gravitational deflection) of the system support to be only slightly dependent on the deformation (e.g., gravitational deflection) of the housing406g.

For example, the multipoint bearing may have at least two bearing locations or more, such as at least three bearing locations or more, such as at least 4 bearing locations or more.

In an exemplary implementation, the housing406gcomprises a rigid housing, allowing for a low-cost and particularly stable implementation. In an alternative or additional exemplary implementation thereto, one or more than one base frame bearing component414a,414bof the bearing frame414comprises the groove (then also referred to as groove profile) extending along the reference direction101and/or along the longitudinal extension of the system support102(also referred to as system support), in which, for example, a support device404engages. This facilitates the adjustment of the multi-point bearing.

In an exemplary implementation, the tubular housing406gcomprises a tube604(also referred to as a housing tube604) and one or more than one flange606(e.g., one flange606per housing opening602), each flange606being water-tightly connected (e.g., welded) to an end face of the tube and/or penetrated by the housing opening602. Each flange606of the housing406ghas a sealing surface606dand one or more than one mounting area606m(e.g., each having a thread), each mounting area606mof which is configured to mate with a fitting cover406dsuch that the fitting cover406dmay be mounted to the mounting area606m(to axially secure the fitting covers).

Optionally, each flange606of the housing406ghas one or more than one port606o(also referred to as a port opening606o), of which a fluid line408f(e.g., a tube) of the condensation trap408opens into each port opening606o. For example, the housing406gmay include two or more (e.g., three, four, or more than four) port openings406oper flange606. Each of the fluid lines408fmay be, for example, connected (e.g., welded) to the flange606in a watertight manner and/or coupled to the guide rail.

In the following, the multi-point bearing arrangement is explained with reference to a two-point bearing arrangement which is easy to implement in terms of design, i.e. a two-bearing system support102. It may be understood that what is explained in this regard may apply by analogy to more than two bearing positions.

In an exemplary implementation, the magnet system100has a housing406g, which is closed in a watertight manner at the end by means of two connection lids406d. The connection lids406deach have a bearing journal by means of which the system chamber406is received in an end block.

FIG.7illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments700in a schematic bearing diagram showing a plurality of configurations700ato700cof the magnet system100that differ from each other in the position (also referred to as the support position) in which the first support device404and the second support device404are mounted relative to each other on the system support102. As an exemplary difference in support position, a difference in the separation701(also referred to as support separation701) of the first support device404from the second support device404or the two bearing locations from each other is referred to below.

The system support102and the housing402gare represented in the bearing diagram by schematic bending lines. The plurality of configurations700ato700cdiffer based on the difference in the support spacing in the bending line of the system support102.

In configuration700a, the support distance701is illustratively small, e.g., less than 50% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102. In configuration700a, the bending line of the system support102is opposite to the bending line of the housing402g. In configuration700b, the support distance701is illustratively large, e.g., greater than 90% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102. In configuration700b, the bending line of the system support102is equidirectional to the bending line of the housing406g.

In configuration700c, the support spacing701is illustratively set to minimize deflection of the housing406g, for example, to a range between 50% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102and 90% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102, for example, to a range between 60% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102and 80% of the longitudinal extent1021of the system support102.

For example, in configuration700c, the support spacing701may be configured such that the deflection of the system support102is exactly the same at the center as at the ends. In other words, they may substantially compensate for each other.

By changing the multi-point support, e.g. the support distance701, the support position and/or the number of bearing points (or support devices404) by means of which the system carrier102is supported, the deflection of the system carrier102may be adjusted, for example according to a preset. The preset may be, for example, a function of the deflection of the housing406gand/or the deflection of the target302.

For example, the multi-point bearing may be configured to achieve asymmetric deflection and/or skewing of the system support102. Based on the influencing variables relevant for the deflection (e.g. bending rigidity and/or inherent mass), the required bearing distances for the desired deflection may be determined by a calculation of the coupled system formed of housing406gand system support102.

FIG.8illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments800in a schematic perspective detail view of a base frame bearing component414a,414bconfigured as a guide rail.

For example, the or each guide rail414a,414bhas a grooved profile and/or is coupled (e.g., welded) to each fluid line (e.g., line pipe) of a pair of fluid lines408fof the condensation trap408. This coupling simultaneously increases the rigidity of the guide rail.

The groove profile facilitates insertion of the system support102, on which the one or more than one support device404is mounted, into the housing406g. For example, the system carrier102on which the one or more than one support device404is mounted may be inserted into the housing406gin a face-to-face manner such that each support device404engages the groove of the groove profile (also referred to as a guide groove) and is slid along the groove into the housing406g.

FIG.9illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments900in a schematic perspective detail view of a face of the magnet bar352, in which each support device404has two bearing bolts902as support components.

The magnet system100may include two or more support devices404(e.g., one support device404per bearing location), each support device404including two bearing bolts902as support components between which the system support102is disposed. Each of the bearing bolts902may protrude from the system support102.

In an exemplary implementation, the system carrier102to which the two or more support devices404are mounted is inserted into the housing406g(e.g., its housing tube604), e.g., by positively engaging each of the support devices404in the guide rail guide groove. The system support102is positively supported in each guide rail of the bearing frame414by means of the bearing pins902.

FIG.10illustrates the magnet system100according to various embodiments1000in a schematic detailed view of the system support102, which includes a plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002b. Each mounting area of the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bof the system support102may be configured such that a support device404may be mounted thereto. For example, each of the mounting areas1002a,1002bmay include one or more than one form-fit profile904to which the support device may be positively mounted. Examples of a form-fit profile904include: a recess (e.g., a groove), a protrusion, a notch (e.g., a thread), a longitudinal slot (e.g., for a bayonet fitting).

For example, the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bmay be arranged in series (e.g., in a row) along the reference direction101. Alternatively or additionally, the mounting areas1002a,1002bmay be arranged equidistantly from each other.

In an exemplary implementation, the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bmay be configured the same as each other such that a support device may be remounted (i.e., swapped) from a first mounting area1002aof the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bto a second mounting area1002bof the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002b. In other words, each of the mounting areas1002a,1002bof the support device may provide at least one position (also referred to as mounting positions) in which the support device may be mounted to the mounting area.

According to various embodiments, the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bmay include one or more than one mounting area (also referred to as a multi-position mounting area) that provides the support device with a plurality of mounting positions in which the support device may be (illustratively optionally) mounted to the multi-position mounting area. More than two mounting positions per multi-position mounting area may, for example, be arranged equidistantly from each other, e.g. in a regular pattern (also referred to as a mounting grid), or may merge into each other.

For example, a number of mounting areas1002a,1002b(e.g., multi-position mounting areas) of the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bof the system carrier102may be greater than a number of bearing locations and/or may be greater than two or more, e.g., three, four, or more than four. Alternatively or additionally, a number of mounting positions per plurality of mounting positions mounting area of the plurality of mounting areas1002a,1002bof the system carrier102may be two or more, e.g., three, four, or more than four.

In a preferred exemplary implementation, each multi-position mounting area has two or more form-fit profiles904(e.g., dimples) that are arranged at a separation from each other and each of which form-fit profiles904provides the support device with a multi-position in which the support device may be mounted to the multi-position mounting area. In an alternative or additional implementation thereto, one or more than one form-fit profile per multi-position mounting area is configured (e.g., as an elongated hole, rail, or groove) to provide the support device therefrom a plurality of multi-positions in which the support device may be mounted to the multi-position mounting area (e.g., steplessly). For example, the form-fit profile may have two sections configured equal to each other such that the support device may be remounted from a first mounting position on a first section of the two sections to a second mounting position on a second section of the two sections.

The two or more form-fit profiles904may, for example, be arranged one behind the other along the reference direction101. More than two form-fit profiles904may be arranged equidistantly from each other, for example, arranged in a regular pattern (also referred to as a form-fit grid). The two or more form-fit profiles904may be configured to be the same as each other such that the support device may be remounted from a first mounting position on a first form-fit profile904to a second mounting position on a second form-fit profile904.

In an exemplary implementation of the mounting grid, the system carrier102provides a mounting position every 65 mm in which an (additional) bearing bolt902may be inserted, or a bearing bolt902already mounted thereto may be remounted.

In an exemplary implementation, the magnet system100comprises: the tubular housing406gwith the system carrier102arranged therein, wherein the tubular housing406gcomprises the housing tube604and two guide rails414a,414bare arranged therein, on which the system carrier102is supported by means of a plurality of bearing bolts902(e.g., two bearing bolts per bearing location). The bearing bolts902may, for example, be guided in the guide rails414a,414barranged on both sides of the system carrier102along or against the reference direction101.

As an alternative or in addition to a mounting grid for the bearing bolts, it is also possible to move the bearing bolts902continuously (e.g. by means of the slotted holes). However, this may make assembly more difficult, for example if the separation of the bearing bolts from each other has to be remeasured during assembly in order to position them precisely enough.

Additional exemplary implementations of various components of the magnet system100that facilitate design and/or assembly are explained below.

In an exemplary implementation of the support device404(e.g., its bearing bolts), the support device404comprises or consists of copper and/or tin, e.g., an alloy thereof (e.g., bronze). This is cost effective. Alternatively or additionally, the support device404(e.g., its bearing pin) comprises or consists of a non-magnetic material, e.g., copper, aluminum, bronze, or the like. This mitigates interference with the magnetic field.

In an exemplary implementation of the bearing frame414(e.g., its guide rails), this has or consists of iron, e.g., an alloy thereof (e.g., stainless steel). This is cost effective. Alternatively or additionally, the bearing frame414(e.g., guide rails thereof) has or consists of a non-magnetic material, e.g., non-magnetic stainless steel. This reduces disturbance of the magnetic field.

In an exemplary implementation, one or more than one support device404of the magnet system100includes a ball bearing. This facilitates insertion of the system support102into the housing406gor guide rail. For example, one or more than one support device404of the magnet system100may include a ball bearing attached to (e.g., placed on) the face of the bearing pin, e.g., per bearing pin.

The use of individual bearing bolts has advantages over a bearing rail when sliding the system carrier into the housing406g, as friction is reduced and the magnet system is not so dependent on shape and position tolerances. The guide rails offer a further advantage in that they may, for example, be connected to the housing406gonly at the end face (i.e. are mounted in a cantilevered manner). This allows the guide rails to yield somewhat during assembly or disassembly of the system support, reducing the risk of jamming.

In the following, various examples are described that relate to what has been described above and what is shown in the figures.

Example 1 is a magnet system for a sputtering device (i.e., a sputtering device magnet system), the magnet system comprising: a (e.g., non-magnetic) bearing frame; a (e.g., non-magnetic) magnet holder having a first mounting area and a second mounting area; a first (e.g. non-magnetic) support device, which is mounted to the magnet holder by means of the first mounting area; a (e.g. non-magnetic) second support device, which is mounted to the magnet holder by means of the second mounting area, wherein the first mounting area and/or the second mounting area are configured in such a way that a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or distance from each other), a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or distance from each other), a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or distance from each other), a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or distance from each other), a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or distance from each other), a (spatial) position (e.g. orientation and/or separation from each other) in which the first support device and the second support device are mounted relative to each other on the magnet holder may be changed; wherein the first support device and the second support device are configured to form with the bearing frame (e.g., form-fitted) to form a bearing device (also referred to as a magnet holder bearing device), e.g., a multi-point bearing device, for bearing the magnet holder (e.g., cantilevered between the first support device and the second support device), e.g., interlocked with the bearing frame (e.g., form-fitted). For example, the bearing device may provide the magnet holder with a plurality of bearing locations (illustratively a multipoint bearing) (then also referred to as a multipoint bearing device). Between the first support device and the second support device, the magnet holder may be cantilevered, for example.

Example 2 is the magnet system according to example 1, wherein the first mounting area of the first support device provided a plurality of mounting positions (e.g., equidistant and/or arranged in a row one behind the other) in which the first support device may be mounted to the first mounting area.

Example 3 is the magnet system of example 2, wherein the plurality of mounting positions are spaced apart from each other; and/or wherein the plurality of mounting positions include a first mounting position and a second mounting position in which the first support device may be mounted to the first mounting area (e.g., optionally), the first mounting position and the second mounting position being spaced apart from each other.

Example 4 is the magnet system according to example 3, wherein the first mounting area is configured such that the first support device may be mounted to the first mounting area in any position between the plurality of mounting positions (e.g., the first mounting position and the second mounting position); and/or wherein the plurality of mounting positions are equidistantly and/or sequentially arranged.

Example 5 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 or 4, wherein the second mounting area of the second support device provided a plurality of additional mounting positions (e.g., equidistant and/or arranged in a row one behind the other) in which the second support device may be mounted to the second mounting area.

Example 6 is the magnet system of example 5, wherein the plurality of additional mounting positions are spaced apart from each other; and/or wherein the plurality of additional mounting positions include a first additional mounting position and a second additional mounting position in which the second support device may be mounted to the second mounting area (e.g., optionally), the first additional mounting position and the second additional mounting position being spaced apart from each other.

Example 7 is the magnet system of example 6, wherein the second mounting area is configured such that the second support device may be mounted to the second mounting area in any position between the additional plurality of mounting positions (e.g., the additional first mounting position and the additional second mounting position); and/or wherein the plurality of additional mounting positions are arranged equidistantly and/or sequentially.

Example 8 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 7, wherein the first support device and/or the second support device are configured to form a floating bearing (i.e., movable support) when joined together (e.g., positively) with the bearing frame.

Example 9 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 8, wherein the first support device and the second support device are configured identically to each other such that they may be mounted interchangeably with each other.

Example 10 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 9, wherein the first support device and/or the second support device comprise two support components between which the magnet holder is arranged.

Example 11 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 10, further comprising: a plurality of magnets arranged in series supported by means of the magnet holder, the plurality of magnets arranged in series preferably providing a plurality of rows of magnets arranged side by side and/or at least two magnetic poles (e.g., an inner pole and an outer pole surrounding the inner pole).

Example 12 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 11, wherein the first support device and/or the second support device comprise a ball bearing, preferably wherein the first support device and/or the second support device comprise a bolt to which the ball bearing is attached.

Example 13 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 12, wherein the bearing frame (e.g. each guide rail thereof) comprises a (e.g. longitudinal) groove or groove profile into which the first support device and/or the second support device engages.

Example 14 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 13, wherein the first mounting area and/or the second mounting area includes a plurality of openings arranged in a grid.

Example 15 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 14, wherein the first mounting area comprises a first grid according to which the first support device may be mounted to the magnet holder; and/or wherein the second mounting area comprises a second grid according to which the second support device may be mounted to the magnet holder; the first grid and the second grid preferably being configured identically.

Example 16 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 15, wherein the first support device and the second support device are interchangeably mountable to the magnet holder.

Example 17 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 16, wherein the bearing frame comprises one or more than one guide rail in which the first support device and/or the second support device engage.

Example 18 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 17, wherein the bearing frame and the first support device and/or the second support device are positively engaged.

Example 19 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 18, wherein the bearing frame has greater bending rigidity than the magnet holder.

Example 20 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 19, wherein the first support device and/or the second support device comprise one or more than one protrusion, preferably one or more than one stud.

Example 21 is the magnet system according to any of examples 1 to 20, wherein the first support device and/or the second support device comprise two bolts between which the magnet holder is arranged.

Example 22 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 21, further comprising: a housing, preferably tubular, in which the bearing frame is disposed; wherein the bearing frame is preferably fixedly (e.g., rigidly) coupled to the housing therewith; and/or wherein the housing has a greater bending rigidity than the magnet holder and/or than the bearing frame.

Example 23 is the magnet system of example 22, wherein the housing includes an opening (e.g., housing opening) through which the magnet holder may be inserted into the housing when engaged with the bearing frame; and/or wherein a fluid conduit is disposed in the housing.

Example 24 is the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 23, further comprising: a plurality of magnets held by means of the magnet holder.

Example 25 is the magnet system of example 24, further comprising a plurality of assemblies, each assembly comprising: at least one magnet of the plurality of magnets; an actuator by means of which the at least one magnet is coupled to the magnet holder, the actuator configured to be driven in response to change a spatial relationship of the at least one magnet relative to the magnet holder.

Example 26 is a sputtering device comprising: a bearing device, preferably comprising one or more than one end block, providing an axis of rotation for rotatably supporting a sputtering target; and the magnet system according to any one of examples 1 to 25 being supported by the bearing device stationary relative to the axis of rotation and/or to the bearing device (e.g. within the sputtering target).

Example 27 is a sputtering device according to example 26, the bearing device further comprising: a fixed bearing supporting the magnet system and/or a rotary bearing for rotatably supporting the sputtering target.

Example 28 is the sputtering device of example 27, the bearing device further comprising: a coupling rotatably supported by means of the pivot bearing for coupling the sputtering target, the coupling having a through-hole exposing the fixed bearing and/or into which the fixed bearing extends.