Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2000-2003
Title: The Innovative Mind of Doug Caldwell: Pioneering Patents in Substrate Processing
Introduction
Doug Caldwell, an inventive mind based in McKinney, TX, has made significant contributions to substrate processing technologies. With a total of three patents to his name, he has demonstrated a keen ability to innovate and create solutions that address industry challenges.
Latest Patents
Caldwell's latest patents include groundbreaking inventions such as the Universal Backplane Assembly and Methods. This invention provides a backplane assembly designed for a substrate processing system that can be selectively configured to maintain effective thermal contact with substrates of varying sizes. The assembly incorporates a backplane base installed within a vacuum chamber, along with multiple faceplates that can be easily removed for exchange. This design promotes efficient heat transfer during substrate processing, ensuring optimal temperature regulation.
Another notable patent is the Virtual Shutter Method and Apparatus for Preventing Damage to Gallium. This invention aims to prevent damage to gallium arsenide substrates during plasma ignition in physical vapor deposition (PVD) processing. By utilizing a virtual shutter, Caldwell's method minimizes the impact of high-energy particles created during the ignition phase, thereby preserving the integrity of the substrate.
Career Highlights
Doug Caldwell currently works at Tokyo Electron Limited, a prominent company in the semiconductor industry. His role involves developing and improving technologies crucial for substrate processing. Through his dedication and innovative spirit, Caldwell has positioned himself as a leading inventor in this highly technical field.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Caldwell has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Jason Smolanoff and Jim Zibrida. These partnerships have enabled the sharing of ideas and resources, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive.
Conclusion
In summary, Doug Caldwell's contributions to the field of substrate processing through his patents highlight his inventive spirit and commitment to advancing technology. With a focus on efficiency and damage prevention in semiconductor processes, he continues to play a vital role in the industry. As innovations like his Universal Backplane Assembly and Virtual Shutter increase in importance, Caldwell's work stands as a testament to the value of creativity and collaboration in engineering advancements.