General Plasma, Inc.

United States of America

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C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering 6
G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings 6
H01J 37/08 - Ion sourcesIon guns 5
H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering 5
C23C 16/50 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating using electric discharges 4
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Found results for  patents

1.

ANTIREFLECTIVE OVERLAYS FOR MOBILE DEVICES AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME

      
Application Number US2020012495
Publication Number 2020/146320
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-01-07
Publication Date 2020-07-16
Owner GENERAL PLASMA INC. (USA)
Inventor Ngo, Phong

Abstract

Antireflective overlays and methods of forming the same are described. In embodiments the antireflective overlays are for mobile devices such as mobile phones, and include a base structure including a glass substrate with a first side and a second side opposing the first side. An antireflective stack including a plurality of layers of differing refractive index is present on the first side of the glass substrate. The antireflective overlay may exhibit a reflectance of less than or equal to about 3% in wavelength range of 425 nanometers (nm) to 675 nm.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings
  • G02B 1/12 - Optical coatings produced by application to, or surface treatment of, optical elements by surface treatment, e.g. by irradiation

2.

MULTILAYER ANTIREFLECTIVE ARTICLES AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME

      
Application Number US2018048568
Publication Number 2019/046441
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-08-29
Publication Date 2019-03-07
Owner GENERAL PLASMA INC. (USA)
Inventor Ngo, Phong

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings
  • G02B 1/115 - Multilayers
  • C03C 17/34 - Surface treatment of glass, e.g. of devitrified glass, not in the form of fibres or filaments, by coating with at least two coatings having different compositions

3.

MULTILAYER ANTIREFLECTIVE ARTICLE AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME

      
Application Number US2018033883
Publication Number 2018/217746
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-05-22
Publication Date 2018-11-29
Owner GENERAL PLASMA INC. (USA)
Inventor Ngo, Phong

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings
  • G02B 1/12 - Optical coatings produced by application to, or surface treatment of, optical elements by surface treatment, e.g. by irradiation
  • G02B 5/02 - Diffusing elementsAfocal elements
  • G02B 6/02 - Optical fibres with cladding

4.

Chamber valve

      
Application Number 15568223
Grant Number 11092245
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-22
First Publication Date 2018-05-24
Grant Date 2021-08-17
Owner GENERAL PLASMA INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John E.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 3/06 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with pivoted closure members in the form of closure plates arranged between supply and discharge passages
  • F16K 51/02 - Other details not peculiar to particular types of valves or cut-off apparatus specially adapted for high-vacuum installations
  • F16K 3/02 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor
  • F16K 3/10 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with pivoted closure members with special arrangements for separating the sealing faces or for pressing them together
  • F16K 3/18 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with special arrangements for separating the sealing faces or for pressing them together by movement of the closure members
  • F16K 31/52 - Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam

5.

Push-to-connect and pull-to-disconnect quick coupling

      
Application Number 15568295
Grant Number 10989343
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-25
First Publication Date 2018-04-26
Grant Date 2021-04-27
Owner General Plasma Inc. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John E.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16L 37/23 - Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection is maintained by means of balls, rollers, or helical springs under radial pressure between the parts by means of balls

6.

Magnetic anode for sputter magnetron cathode

      
Application Number 15540325
Grant Number 10811236
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-10-26
First Publication Date 2017-11-30
Grant Date 2020-10-20
Owner General Plasma, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John E.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering

7.

CHAMBER VALVE

      
Application Number US2016028768
Publication Number 2016/172429
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-22
Publication Date 2016-10-27
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John, E.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 3/06 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with pivoted closure members in the form of closure plates arranged between supply and discharge passages
  • F16K 3/10 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with pivoted closure members with special arrangements for separating the sealing faces or for pressing them together
  • F16K 51/02 - Other details not peculiar to particular types of valves or cut-off apparatus specially adapted for high-vacuum installations
  • F16K 3/02 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor
  • F16K 3/18 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor with special arrangements for separating the sealing faces or for pressing them together by movement of the closure members

8.

PUSH-TO-CONNECT AND PULL-TO-DISCONNECT QUICK COUPLING

      
Application Number US2016029105
Publication Number 2016/172666
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-04-25
Publication Date 2016-10-27
Owner GENERAL PLASMA. INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John, E.

Abstract

A quick coupling for connecting fluid lines with one-handed push-to-connect and pull-to- disconnect operation is provided. 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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16L 37/23 - Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection is maintained by means of balls, rollers, or helical springs under radial pressure between the parts by means of balls

9.

Rotary magnetron magnet bar and apparatus containing the same for high target utilization

      
Application Number 15180289
Grant Number 10273570
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-06-13
First Publication Date 2016-10-06
Grant Date 2019-04-30
Owner General Plasma, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John E.
  • Morse, Patrick Lawrence
  • Ngo, Phong

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/54 - Controlling or regulating the coating process
  • C23C 14/34 - Sputtering
  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering
  • H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering

10.

MAGNETIC ANODE FOR SPUTTER MAGNETRON CATHODE

      
Application Number US2015057407
Publication Number 2016/069490
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-10-26
Publication Date 2016-05-06
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering

11.

SCRATCH AND FINGERPRINT RESISTANT ANTI-REFLECTIVE FILMS FOR USE ON DISPLAY WINDOWS OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND OTHER RELATED TECHNOLOGY

      
Application Number US2015029306
Publication Number 2015/171651
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-05-05
Publication Date 2015-11-12
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John

Abstract

A scratch and fingerprint resistant anti-reflective film in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology includes an anti-reflective stack and a protective layer overlying the anti-reflective stack. The anti-reflective stack has at least six stack layers of alternating higher and lower refractive indexes. The protective layer includes diamond-like carbon having fluorine as a bulk constituent. At least a 15 cm region of the film is continuous and has an average nanoindentation hardness of at least 8 GPa using the Continuous Stiffness Measurement Technique. An average reflectance off the film at the region from normal incident light of wavelengths from 425 nm to 675 nm is not more than 1%. Average a* and b* in CIELAB color space for reflectance off the film at the region from -45° to 45° incident visible light are within a range from -2.0 to 2.0.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
  • B32B 7/02 - Physical, chemical or physicochemical properties
  • G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings

12.

SCRATCH AND FINGERPRINT RESISTANT ANTI-REFLECTIVE FILMS FOR USE ON DISPLAY WINDOWS OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND OTHER RELATED TECHNOLOGY

      
Application Number US2015012785
Publication Number 2015/112918
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-01-23
Publication Date 2015-07-30
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John

Abstract

A scratch-resistant anti-reflective film in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an anti-reflective stack and a protective layer overlying the anti-reflective stack. The anti-reflective stack has at least six stack layers of alternating higher and lower refractive indexes. The protective layer is at least primarily composed of diamond-like carbon and has a thickness of not more than 5 nm. At least a 15 cm2 region of the film is continuous and has an average nanoindentation hardness of at least 8 GPa using the Continuous Stiffness Measurement Technique. An average reflectance off the film at the region from normal incident light of wavelengths from 425 nm to 675 nm is not more than 1%. Average a* and b* in CIELAB color space for reflectance off the film at the region from -45° to 45° incident visible light are within a range from -2.0 to 2.0.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B32B 7/02 - Physical, chemical or physicochemical properties
  • B32B 9/00 - Layered products essentially comprising a particular substance not covered by groups

13.

DURABLE ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATED SUBSTRATES FOR USE IN ELECTRONIC-DEVICE DISPLAYS AND OTHER RELATED TECHNOLOGY

      
Application Number US2014068966
Publication Number 2015/085283
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-12-06
Publication Date 2015-06-11
Owner GENERAL PLASMA INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John

Abstract

A coated substrate in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a base substrate and an anti-reflective coating having at least six chemically deposited layers on the base substrate. At least a 15 cm2 region of the anti-reflective coating is continuous has an optical thickness variation of not more than 3% over a maximum dimension of the region. The anti-reflective coating, at the region, has an average reflectance of not more than 1% for normal incident visible light, an average nanoindentation hardness of at least 9 GPa, and a reflectance color at incident angles within a range from -45° to 45° having both a* and b* in CIELAB color space within a range from -2.0 to 2.0. The layers include S13N4 high-refractive-index layers interspersed with S1O2 low-refractive-index layers. The coated substrate overlies display circuitry within a housing of an electronic device, such as a mobile phone.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B05D 5/06 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures to obtain multicolour or other optical effects
  • B05D 5/00 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces to obtain special surface effects, finishes or structures

14.

MULTIPLE LAYER ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATING

      
Application Number US2014065097
Publication Number 2015/070254
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-11-11
Publication Date 2015-05-14
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Ngo, Phong

Abstract

A transparent substrate with an antireflection coating is provided that includes at least six layers in overlying contact on the surface. The AR coating has an absolute reflection of less than 1% over the visible spectrum from 425 nm to 675 nm, and a neutral color such that a* is less than ±1.5 and b* is less than ±1.5 over the entire substrate. The AR coating has a nano-indentation hardness greater than 9GPa. A process of making such a coating includes the insertion of a substrate into a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) apparatus. An AC ion source is energized in the PECVD apparatus in the presence of a first precursor and ammonia to form a first layer of said coating. At least 5 more layers of the coating are deposited on the first layer.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02B 1/11 - Anti-reflection coatings
  • C23C 16/50 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating using electric discharges

15.

MULTIPLE LAYER ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATING

      
Application Number US2014061816
Publication Number 2015/061484
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-10-22
Publication Date 2015-04-30
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ngo, Phong
  • Madocks, John E.

Abstract

A transparent substrate with an antireflection coating is provided that includes: at least six-layers in overlying contact on the surface, the six layers having at least one layer having a refractive index greater than about 2.15 at 632 nm and at least one layer having a lower refractive index of between 1.44 and 1.52 at 632 nm, where at least one of the lower refractive index layers is SiO2 containing at least 0.25% hydrogen by atomic concentration. In a specific embodiment of the coating at least one layer having a refractive index greater than about 2.15 at 632nm is TiO2 containing at least 0.25% chlorine by atomic concentration.

IPC Classes  ?

16.

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING BARRIER FILMS

      
Application Number US2014047220
Publication Number 2015/010036
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-07-18
Publication Date 2015-01-22
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Seaman, Walter
  • Madocks, John E.

Abstract

A method for manufacturing vacuum deposited barrier films that prevent water vapor and/or oxygen gas permeation, while minimizing the amount of particles and contaminants on the surface to which the barrier film is to be applied is provided. The method includes protecting a to-be-coated surface with an adhesive tacky film through vacuum pump down and from roller contact, etc. Surfaces treated with the method include flexible web substrates and rigid substrates such as glass or metal. A glass substrate with a pre-coated film stack, for example, a glass sheet with coatings for making an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display can be protected with a tacky film per the inventive method. Small substrates such as glass lenses can also benefit from the inventive method. As can other substrates such as rolls of metal strip and substrates with curved or pre-cut shapes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 16/50 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating using electric discharges
  • C23C 16/54 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coating
  • C23C 16/56 - After-treatment
  • C23C 16/22 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the deposition of inorganic material, other than metallic material

17.

LINEAR DUOPLASMATRON

      
Application Number US2014042176
Publication Number 2014/201285
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-06-12
Publication Date 2014-12-18
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John E.

Abstract

A duoplasmatron is provided having a cathode, an anode with linear slit, and an intermediate electrode (IE) between the cathode and the anode where the IE has an opening that is aligned with the anode slit. A magnet forms a magnetic field that passes through the anode slit. A discharge passes from the cathode to the anode through the IE opening and the anode slit. The discharge is constricted through the IE opening and the magnetic field in the anode slit. An extractor external to the anode accelerates ions through an ion emitting slit aligned with the anode slit. A process of generating an accelerated ion beam is provided that includes flowing a gas into the IE and then energizing at least one power supply to induce electron flow to the anode. Ionizing the gas in the gap between the IE and anode. The ions are accelerated from the anode through the extractor ion emitting slit forming a linear ion beam.

IPC Classes  ?

18.

ANODE LAYER SLIT ION SOURCE

      
Application Number US2014042187
Publication Number 2014/201292
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-06-12
Publication Date 2014-12-18
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John E.

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 3mm 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.

IPC Classes  ?

19.

UNIFORM FORCE FLANGE CLAMP

      
Application Number US2013060746
Publication Number 2014/047367
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-09-19
Publication Date 2014-03-27
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John, E.
  • Lohrenz, Ryan
  • Smith, Steven, Sr.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16B 2/08 - Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action using bands
  • F16L 33/02 - Hose-clips

20.

Rotary magnetron magnet bar and apparatus containing the same for high target utilization

      
Application Number 13504366
Grant Number 09388490
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-10-26
First Publication Date 2012-10-18
Grant Date 2016-07-12
Owner General Plasma, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John E.
  • Morse, Patrick Lawrence
  • Ngo, Phong

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering
  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering
  • C23C 14/34 - Sputtering

21.

DEPOSITION OF THIN FILMS ON ENERGY SENSITIVE SURFACES

      
Application Number US2012024618
Publication Number 2012/109523
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-02-10
Publication Date 2012-08-16
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John
  • Seaman, Walter

Abstract

A process for plasma deposition of a coating is provided that includes exposure of a surface of a substrate to a source of adsorbate molecules to form a protective layer on the surface. The protective layer is then exposed in-line to a plasma volume to react the protective film to form the coating. This process occurs without an intermediate evacuation to remove the adsorbate molecules prior to contact with the plasma volume. As a result, kinetic ion impact damage to the surface is limited while efficient operation of the plasma deposition system continues.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 16/44 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating
  • C23C 16/50 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating using electric discharges
  • C23C 16/06 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the deposition of metallic material

22.

HIGH TARGET UTILIZATION MOVING MAGNET PLANAR MAGNETRON SCANNING METHOD

      
Application Number US2011037075
Publication Number 2011/146673
Status In Force
Filing Date 2011-05-19
Publication Date 2011-11-24
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Ngo, Phong

Abstract

A method for operating a moving magnet magnetron is provided enhanced target utilization. A magnet pack is moved in a first 2-D motion profile with a variable velocity. The magnet pack is then translated in a second 2-D motion profile that varies relative to the first profile. This process moving and translating is repeated to provide enhanced target utilization. These varied movement and translation profiles preclude the formation of a diamond-shaped erosion area common to the prior art. Representative to such profiles are intersecting sigmoidal curves. The resultant target is characterized by a metal from that has better target utilization as the wear pattern precludes the diamond shaped erosion area common to the prior art and instead has a multiple erosion peaks.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering

23.

Closed drift magnetic field ion source apparatus containing self-cleaning anode and a process for substrate modification therewith

      
Application Number 13132762
Grant Number 09136086
Status In Force
Filing Date 2009-12-08
First Publication Date 2011-09-22
Grant Date 2015-09-15
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John E.

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/00 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material
  • H01J 37/08 - Ion sourcesIon guns
  • H01J 27/14 - Other arc discharge ion sources using an applied magnetic field
  • H01J 37/305 - Electron-beam or ion-beam tubes for localised treatment of objects for casting, melting, evaporating, or etching
  • H01J 37/317 - Electron-beam or ion-beam tubes for localised treatment of objects for changing properties of the objects or for applying thin layers thereon, e.g. ion implantation
  • H01J 37/32 - Gas-filled discharge tubes
  • H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering

24.

ROTARY MAGNETRON MAGNET BAR AND APPARATUS CONTAINING THE SAME FOR HIGH TARGET UTILIZATION

      
Application Number US2010054111
Publication Number 2011/056581
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-10-26
Publication Date 2011-05-12
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John
  • Morse, Patrick, Lawrence

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering
  • C23C 14/14 - Metallic material, boron or silicon
  • C23C 14/34 - Sputtering

25.

PLASMA ENHANCED CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION APPARATUS

      
Application Number US2010047994
Publication Number 2011/029096
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-09-07
Publication Date 2011-03-10
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John

Abstract

PECVD apparatus for depositing material onto a moving substrate is provided comprising a process chamber, a precursor gas inlet to the process chamber, a pumped outlet, and a plasma source disposed within the process chamber. The plasma source produces one or more negative glow regions and one or more positive columns. At least one positive column is disposed toward the substrate. The plasma source and precursor gas inlet are disposed relative to each other and the substrate such that the precursor gas is injected into the positive column adjacent the substrate. Apparatus is provided to channel the precursor gas into the positive column away from the negative glow region.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 16/50 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating using electric discharges
  • C23C 16/455 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating characterised by the method used for introducing gases into the reaction chamber or for modifying gas flows in the reaction chamber
  • C23C 16/458 - Chemical coating by decomposition of gaseous compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating, i.e. chemical vapour deposition [CVD] processes characterised by the method of coating characterised by the method used for supporting substrates in the reaction chamber

26.

CLOSED DRIFT ION SOURCE WITH SYMMETRIC MAGNETIC FIELD

      
Application Number US2010044235
Publication Number 2011/017314
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-08-03
Publication Date 2011-02-10
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John

Abstract

A closed drift ion source is provided comprising a single magnetic source, a first pole and a second pole. The ends of the first and second poles are separated by a gap. The magnetic source is disposed proximate to one of the first pole and second pole. A first magnetic path is provided between one magnetic pole of the single magnetic source and the end of the first pole. A second magnetic path is provided between the other magnetic pole of the single magnetic source and the end of the second pole. The first and second magnetic paths are selectively constructed to produce a symmetrical magnetic field in the gap.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/08 - Ion sourcesIon guns
  • H05H 1/02 - Arrangements for confining plasma by electric or magnetic fieldsArrangements for heating plasma

27.

ROTARY MAGNETRON

      
Application Number US2010029956
Publication Number 2010/115189
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-04-05
Publication Date 2010-10-07
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John, Eric
  • Vogler, Jeffrey, Frank

Abstract

A rotary magnetron is provided with an end block for rotatably supporting a target on an axis of rotation. An elongate magnetic bar assembly is disposed within the target. A stator shaft is affixed in the end block; one end of the stator shaft is coupled to the elongate magnetic bar assembly to support the elongate magnetic bar assembly. The target has a target shaft extending over the stator shaft and rotatable thereon around the axis of rotation. The rotary magnetron is characterized by a rotating coolant seal disposed inside the target shaft proximate the one end of the stator shaft and proximate to the elongate magnetic bar assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering

28.

Closed drift ion source

      
Application Number 12311920
Grant Number 08304744
Status In Force
Filing Date 2007-10-19
First Publication Date 2010-08-19
Grant Date 2012-11-06
Owner General Plasma, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John Eric

Abstract

A closed drift ion source is provided, having an anode that serves as both the center magnetic pole and as the electrical anode. The anode has an insulating material cap that produces a closed drift region to further increase the electrical impedance of the source. The ion source can be configured as a round, conventional ion source for space thruster applications or as a long, linear ion source for uniformly treating large area substrates. A particularly useful implementation uses the present invention as an anode for a magnetron sputter process.

IPC Classes  ?

29.

CLOSED DRIFT MAGNETIC FIELD ION SOURCE APPARATUS CONTAINING SELF-CLEANING ANODE AND A PROCESS FOR SUBSTRATE MODIFICATION THEREWITH

      
Application Number US2009067149
Publication Number 2010/077659
Status In Force
Filing Date 2009-12-08
Publication Date 2010-07-08
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor Madocks, John

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.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/317 - Electron-beam or ion-beam tubes for localised treatment of objects for changing properties of the objects or for applying thin layers thereon, e.g. ion implantation
  • H01J 37/08 - Ion sourcesIon guns

30.

BIPOLAR RECTIFIER POWER SUPPLY

      
Application Number US2009066108
Publication Number 2010/063027
Status In Force
Filing Date 2009-11-30
Publication Date 2010-06-03
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John
  • Camus, Curtis, Charles
  • Marcus, Patrick

Abstract

A process for powering an electrical load includes applying a rectified alternating current waveform across the load for a first time period with only a single power supply for at least two half cycles. At least one half cycle of an alternating current waveform of opposite polarity are then applied relative to the rectified alternating current waveform across the load for a second time period. Rectified alternating current waveform is then again applied across the load for at least two half cycles for a third time period to power the electrical load. The rectified alternating current waveform can be applied a direct current offset. A power supply is provided for provided power across the load according to this process.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02M 7/04 - Conversion of AC power input into DC power output without possibility of reversal by static converters
  • H02M 7/48 - Conversion of DC power input into AC power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode

31.

ROTATABLE MAGNETRON SPUTTERING WITH AXIALLY MOVEABLE TARGET ELECTRODE TUBE

      
Application Number US2008066145
Publication Number 2008/154397
Status In Force
Filing Date 2008-06-06
Publication Date 2008-12-18
Owner GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Madocks, John
  • Simmons, Michael
  • Morse, Patrick

Abstract

A new and useful rotatable sputter magnetron assembly is provided, that addresses the issue of uneven wear of the target electrode tube. According to the principles of the present invention, a rotatable sputter magnetron assembly for use in magnetron sputtering target material onto a substrate comprises a. a longitudinally extending tubular shaped target electrode tube having a longitudinal central axis, b. the target electrode tube extending about a magnet bar that is configured to generate a plasma confining magnetic field adjacent the target electrode tube, c. the magnet bar being held substantially stationary within the target electrode tube, and d. the target electrode tube supported for rotation about its longitudinal central axis and for axial movement along its longitudinal central axis, so that wear of the target electrode tube can be controlled by moving the target electrode tube axially during magnetron sputtering of the target material.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 37/32 - Gas-filled discharge tubes
  • C23C 14/35 - Sputtering by application of a magnetic field, e.g. magnetron sputtering

32.

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR DIRECTING AN ION BEAM SOURCE

      
Application Number US2007074341
Publication Number 2008/014332
Status In Force
Filing Date 2007-07-25
Publication Date 2008-01-31
Owner
  • CARDINAL CG COMPANY (USA)
  • GENERAL PLASMA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • German, John
  • Hartig, Klaus
  • Madocks, John, E.

Abstract

A method and apparatus for directing an ion beam toward a surface of a substrate is disclosed. Certain embodiments of the invention relate generally to ion beam sources adapted to direct ion beams toward a surface of a substrate at an oblique angle of incidence relative to the surface. Certain embodiments of the invention are adapted to direct two ion beam portions toward a substrate surface, the ion beam portions having substantially equal throw distances. Preferred embodiments of the invention may be useful in etching applications, where the angle of incidence and throw distance of two ion beam portions are well suited for etching the surface of a substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01J 27/14 - Other arc discharge ion sources using an applied magnetic field
  • H01J 37/08 - Ion sourcesIon guns
  • C23C 14/22 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material characterised by the process of coating
  • C23C 14/56 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coatingArrangements for maintaining the vacuum, e.g. vacuum locks

33.

Cylindrical target with oscillating magnet for magnetron sputtering

      
Application Number 11171054
Grant Number 07993496
Status In Force
Filing Date 2005-06-30
First Publication Date 2006-01-05
Grant Date 2011-08-09
Owner
  • Cardinal CG Company (USA)
  • General Plasma, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Hartig, Klaus
  • Smith, Steve E.
  • Madocks, John E.

Abstract

In some embodiments, the invention includes a cylindrical cathode target assembly for use in sputtering target material onto a substrate that comprises a generally cylindrical target, means for rotating the target about its axis during a sputtering operation, an elongated magnet carried within the target for generation of a plasma-containing magnetic field exterior to but adjacent the target, a framework for supporting the magnet against rotation within the target, and a power train for causing the magnet to oscillate within and axially of the target in a substantially asynchronous manner to promote generally uniform target utilization along its length, as well as its method of use. In some embodiments, the magnet is oscillated in response to rotation of the target.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C23C 14/00 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material