This inventor holds 1 USPTO granted patent, plus 1 CIPO patent. Top assignee: International Business Machines Corporation. Active years: 1993.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1993
Title: Innovations of Willi Walter in GaAs Technology
Introduction
Willi Walter is a notable inventor based in Adliswil, Switzerland. He has made significant contributions to the field of semiconductor technology, particularly in the development of processes for the selective growth of Gallium Arsenide (GaAs). His work has implications for the fabrication of advanced laser diodes, which are essential in various applications.
Latest Patents
Willi Walter holds a patent for a process that enhances the selective growth of GaAs. This innovative process is particularly useful in the fabrication of GaAs quantum well (QW) laser diodes. The method begins with a ridge-patterned (100)-substrate, where the crystal orientation of the sidewalls differs from that of the horizontal top. This difference in orientation results in a lower Ga incorporation rate on the sidewall facets. In a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system, the lower AlGaAs cladding layer is first grown, followed by the high-temperature growth of the active GaAs QW. Due to diffusion and desorption processes, the GaAs thickness at the sidewalls is less than that on the horizontal top of the ridge. During a brief growth interruption, the GaAs completely desorbs from the sidewall facets. The subsequent growth of the upper cladding layer embeds the QW laterally in higher bandgap material, providing lateral electric confinement.
Career Highlights
Willi Walter has had a distinguished career, primarily associated with the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM). His work has focused on advancing semiconductor technologies, which are critical for modern electronic devices. His innovative approaches have led to improved performance and efficiency in laser diodes.
Collaborations
Willi Walter has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Heinz P. Meier and Edward A. Van Gieson. These collaborations have fostered a productive environment for innovation and have contributed to the advancement of semiconductor technology.
Conclusion
Willi Walter's contributions to the field of GaAs technology exemplify the impact of innovative processes in semiconductor fabrication. His patent for the selective growth of GaAs has paved the way for advancements in laser diode technology, showcasing the importance of research and development in this field.