Run-to-run and wafer-to-wafer control, realtime control, control algorithms, defect inspection, test structures (wafer), sampling strategy
Virtual metrology
Application of process models, control density improvement, reduction of measurement operations and non-product wafers, throughput increase
Yield management
Prediction and improvement of product parameters and yield by use of APC methods, novel methods of yield modeling and management
Factory data analysis
Real-time data collection aggregation, classification and quality, process and equipment capability, mathematical methods and model creation, novel methods of data visualization and data analysis
IT infrastructure
Tool interfaces and communication, sensor / actuator bus, interfaces, demands on new standards
Manufacturing Effectiveness and Productivity
Unit process & equipment productivity
Throughput and uptime improvement, cycle time and variability reduction, non-productive wafer and substrate reduction, tool and unit process related productivity improvement
Factory productivity and automation
Factory scheduling and dispatching optimization, throughput and uptime improvement, cycle time and variability reduction, automation-related productivity improvement, master data management, tracking of materials, spare parts and consumables, production planning & control, wafer handling, maintenance strategy, lean manufacturing
Factory modeling, simulation and optimization
Design for manufacturing, future factory design, capacity and cost modeling, yield modeling & improvement, novel methods of manufacturing data analysis and visualization
Cost optimization and end-of-life equipment issues
Fixed and variable cost reduction, cost of ownership (CoO) and overall equipment efficiency (OEE), unit cost modelling, equipment and maintenance optimization
Environment and Green Manufacturing
Global ESH strategies, facilities operations, facility systems reliability improvements, manufacturing sustainability and resource conservation