Abstract:
A rotary sputter magnetron assembly for use in sputtering target material onto a substrate is provided. The assembly comprises a longitudinally extending target tube having a longitudinal central axis, said target tube extending about a magnet array that is configured to generate a plasma confining magnetic field adjacent the target tube, said target tube supported for rotation about its longitudinal central axis and a pair of side shunts positioned parallel to the longitudinal central axis, and on opposing lengthwise sides of said target tube.
Abstract:
A clamp is provided that incorporates a plurality of flexible links with V flexures between the links to maintain even spacing of the links before and during installation. Each link has multiple segments joined around at least one flexure point, and a floating band surrounding the links to distribute clamping pressure that is produced along a circumference of contact points. The clamp provides evenly distributed clamping pressure by increasing the number of clamping contact points between the clamp and articles being joined. The clamp has non-limiting applications for clamping target tubes or as a vacuum flange for ISO fittings. A clamp can produce a vacuum tight seal between a target tube and end block or end support flange of a rotary magnetron without resort to tools, and as such is rapidly secured in place.
Abstract:
A quick coupling for connecting fluid lines with one-handed push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect operation is described. The quick coupling achieves this preferred functionality with a minimum number parts, the quick coupling having only one spring and one dynamic seal. In addition to fluid carrying applications the quick coupling can be used for tool holding and power transmission.
Abstract:
A linear anode layer ion source is provided that includes a top pole having a linear ion emitting slit. An anode under the top pole has a slit aligned with the top pole ion emitting slit. At least one magnet creates a magnetic field that passes through the anode slit. Wherein the width of the anode slit is 3 mm or less. A process of generating an accelerated ion beam is also provided that includes flowing a gas into proximity to said anode. By energizing a power supply electron flow is induced to the anode and the gas is ionized. Accelerating the ions from the anode through the linear ion emitting slit generates an accelerated ion beam by a process superior to that using a racetrack-shaped slit.
Abstract:
A process for modifying a surface of a substrate is provided that includes supplying electrons to an electrically isolated anode electrode of a closed drift ion source. The anode electrode has an anode electrode charge bias that is positive while other components of the closed drift ion source are electrically grounded or support an electrical float voltage. The electrons encounter a closed drift magnetic field that induces ion formation. Anode contamination is prevented by switching the electrode charge bias to negative in the presence of a gas, a plasma is generated proximal to the anode electrode to clean deposited contaminants from the anode electrode. The electrode charge bias is then returned to positive in the presence of a repeat electron source to induce repeat ion formation to again modify the surface of the substrate. An apparatus for modification of a surface of a substrate by this process is provided.
Abstract:
A rotary sputter magnetron assembly for use in sputtering target material onto a substrate is provided. The assembly comprises a longitudinally extending target tube having a longitudinal central axis, said target tube extending about a magnet array that is configured to generate a plasma confining magnetic field adjacent the target tube, said target tube supported for rotation about its longitudinal central axis and a pair of side shunts positioned parallel to the longitudinal central axis, and on opposing lengthwise sides of said target tube.
Abstract:
Multilayer antireflective articles are disclosed. In embodiments, the multilayer antireflective articles include a combination of a moth-eye layer and a multi-layer antireflective stack. The articles can exhibit desirable optical properties for use in various applications, including screen overlays. Methods of forming such articles are also disclosed.
Abstract:
An apparatus for coating a substrate is provided that includes a racetrack-shaped plasma source having two straight portions and at least one terminal turnaround portion connecting said straight portions. A tubular target formed of a target material that forms a component of the coating has an end. The target is in proximity to the plasma source for sputtering of the target material. The target is secured to a tubular backing cathode, with both being rotatable about a central axis. A set of magnets are arranged inside the cathode to move an erosion zone aligned with the terminal turnaround toward the end of the target as the target is utilized to deposit the coating on the substrate. Target utilization of up to 87 weight percent the initial target weight is achieved.
Abstract:
A linear anode layer ion source is provided that includes a top pole having a linear ion emitting slit. An anode under the top pole has a slit aligned with the top pole ion emitting slit. At least one magnet creates a magnetic field that passes through the anode slit. Wherein the width of the anode slit is 3 mm or less. A process of generating an accelerated ion beam is also provided that includes flowing a gas into proximity to said anode. By energizing a power supply electron flow is induced to the anode and the gas is ionized. Accelerating the ions from the anode through the linear ion emitting slit generates an accelerated ion beam by a process superior to that using a racetrack-shaped slit.
Abstract:
A chamber valve (100) for use in processes requiring vacuum pressures has a compact design which minimizes the space needed for the valve in the travel direction. The chamber valve gate (116) is moveable between a first position in which the gate is offset from the portal (110), and a second position in which the gate is aligned with the portal. The gate will move into alignment with the portal while remaining within a plane parallel or nearly parallel to the portal.