Successfully deploying smart manufacturing solutions into the fab requires that subject matter experts are able to gain frictionless access to data and tool conditions, while allowing for easy collaboration. These challenges are particularly acute during times when tools are most at risk, for example, during both scheduled and unscheduled downtime when actions need to be taken efficiently and correctly, and often in multiple parts of the tool simultaneously.
Traditionally, semiconductor tools have a single, built-in graphical user interface from which operators, service technicians, and engineers access tool information and control capabilities. This setup limits interaction to a single function by a single user who is required to be physically present at the interface. Utilizing a web-based user interface (web UI) allows the user to access tool functionality from virtually any network-connected device. This eliminates the above mentioned constraints by allowing users from all disciplines to simultaneously access the tool in accordance with their own specific needs, independently from other users as long as they are connected to the network.
Implementing a web UI feature into semiconductor tools enables new usage scenarios while introducing collaboration, customization, and cost advantages which can lead to increased productivity and flexibility, as well as workflow efficiencies. Leveraging best practices in modern UI design has the additional benefit of simplifying training time for the next generation of semiconductor workers.
By allowing multiple users to access tool data and operations at the same time, collaborative work can be accomplished quite easily in real-time. Additionally, each user has the flexibility to customize their interface, allowing them to access features and capabilities, or combine cross-discipline screens, that are relevant to their function. Further efficiencies can be gained by combining screens from an entire fleet of tools into a single easy to navigate dashboard. Since the tool is being accessed via a web browser, adding a new interface is as simple as connecting a low-cost device such as a tablet or laptop.
In this session, we will demonstrate using different manufacturing use cases, how factories, equipment makers, and operators can benefit from the implementation of web UI into their workflow.
