Transforming Innovation into Scalable Solutions

At IES, we’re proud to share success stories from our partners, including Innovent Technologies, whose work is driving real advancements in the nanotechnology industry. This case study highlights how Innovent transformed a groundbreaking ALD process into a scalable, reliable, and manufacturable solution.

The company they partnered with was looking for a strategic ally to validate their ALD process and turn a proof-of-concept laboratory tool into a repeatable and commercially viable electrochemical system. Based in Boston and working in the semiconductor space, they needed not only technical expertise but also a partner who could deliver on efficiency, cost control, and reliability in a high-stakes environment.

Challenges

The project posed several manufacturing challenges. A stringent timeline required efficient processes to ensure completion on schedule. A constrained budget demanded careful optimization of resources. At the same time, the project called for sophisticated design and development of a reliable process machine, with the added complexity of operating in an environment where equipment reliability is critical and the risks of failure are high.

Process

To overcome these challenges, Innovent implemented a structured systems assembly process. The effort began with DFM&A engineering collaboration, evaluating key system characteristics and optimizing designs for manufacturability. Next came PFU linkage, with CNC machining enabling rapid iteration and in-house development of process chambers, manifolds, and heater blocks. In the SWE usage phase, process chambers and gas management systems were fine-tuned with batch builds, along with customizations to reduce cost and lead times.

From there, Innovent’s technicians brought the sub-assemblies together, completing rigorous testing before shipment. Supply chain management was also a priority, with advanced forecasting and careful procurement to ensure components were available within tight timeframes. Finally, customer training ensured a smooth handoff, equipping the end users with the knowledge to operate and maintain the system effectively.

Innovent Solution

Following the completion of the business plan, the engineering team launched a Design for Manufacturability (DFM) initiative, utilizing cutting-edge design principles and precise process parameters to develop an advanced electromechanical system. By concentrating on critical factors—such as gas flow, heating, cooling, and vacuum control—Innovent delivered a solution with superior performance, tailored specifically to meet client requirements.

The final design integrated a range of custom components, meticulously fabricated and assembled in-house, including precision-machined and welded vacuum chambers, plate heaters, and process gas lines. Additionally, they leveraged their established supply chain to efficiently procure key elements such as frame weldments, electronics enclosures, and external panels, further streamlining the manufacturing process.

As the design evolved and the Bill of Materials (BOM) expanded, Innovent proactively engaged with new suppliers to secure top-quality commercial components and specialized parts, ensuring a robust and reliable final product.

Business Impact

This solution has fueled business and market growth for Innovent's client and has resulted in substantial time savings, efficiency improvements, and enhanced quality. By effectively addressing complex manufacturability challenges, Innovent empowered their client to thrive in a competitive marketplace, reinforcing their position and driving long-term success.

This effort led to the successful scaling of a revolutionary Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) tool, significantly impacting the nanotechnology semiconductor industry. Through the robust Design for Manufacturability (DFM) program, this product evolved into several innovative models, each incorporating cutting-edge technology and enhanced reliability.

 

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Interested in learning if Innovent Technologies ALD tool is right for you? Reach out to IES today.

 

This case study was originally published to Innovent Technologies.