a group of square objects

SolVisionCase Study

Automating Semiconductor Wafer Inspections

Intelligent AI defect detection for silicon wafers

Balancing yield and quality of silicon wafers

During production, semiconductor wafers undergo processes such as lithography, etching, film deposition, diffusion, and grinding, and are exposed to different substances in the environment that can cause quality affecting defects. Lasers can be used to repair silicon cells with certain defects yet this is an inefficient step for wafers with too many defects, as they are better off eliminated directly to avoid slowing down production. An inspection process is necessary to locate defective wafers suitable for repair.

Intelligent AI defect detection for silicon wafers

Rigid traditional inspection systems

Traditional rule-based systems are easily influenced by external lighting conditions and unable to classify full frame images, so excessively damaged wafers cannot be eliminated in the preliminary stage. Faulty wafers also usually have subtle defects randomly scattered on the surface, and this prevents conventional vision systems from setting rules for efficient inspections. 

Flexible defect detection with SolVision

Powered by AI, SolVision is capable of recognizing the features of different defects and identifying substandard wafers. First, the system uses the Classification tool to determine whether a wafer has been damaged beyond repair. Image processing then divides scanned images of wafers into sections, and the Segmentation tool inspects them for defects thoroughly. Information such as defect characteristics, location, size and other data are recorded to improve the efficiency of subsequent repairs. 

AI Inspection

Golden Sample

Defective Product

Related Posts
  • Fiberglass bobbins in a warehouse

    Bobbin Yarn Defect Detection Using AI

    SolVision, Solomon’s AI vision system, enhances bobbin yarn defect detection with superior inspection accuracy, improving yarn quality and reducing downtime.
  • a group of square objects

    Detecting Chipping Defects in Wafer Dicing

    The location, size and shape of cracks vary each time, and traditional optical inspection cannot accurately identify such unpredictable defects.
  • Bearing Defect Detection Using AI

    Discover how SolVision’s AI technology enhances bearing defect detection with precise thread inspection, boosting quality control and efficiency.
  • Engine Serial Number Recognition Using AI

    SolVision’s AI-based OCR technology enables automated engine serial number recognition, ensuring rapid, accurate data extraction and seamless integration.