Veeco Receives first Order for Predictive Analytics Platform
Veeco Instruments has sold its first Predictive Analytics solution to a major data storage customer. Incorporating Rudolph Technologies fault detection and predictive maintenance software, the new platform is designed to increase system productivity.
The combination of sensor technology that tracks a wide number of tool parameters with Rudolph's software enables customers to reduce unscheduled downtime, proactively manage system maintenance and detect early failure problems before they occur, according to Veeco.
Based on customer feedback and extensive field data on Veeco NEXUS ion beam etch tools, Veeco's Predictive Analytics solution achieved over 15 percent lower maintenance costs from a reduction in wafer scrap, unscheduled tool downtime and material costs.
"We have demonstrated the ability to change the service structure from scheduled to predictive maintenance, which will have a favorable impact on our customers' operational efficiency when fully implemented," said Guy Shechter, VP of Veeco Service Products and Marketing. "Being able to predict mechanical failures, maintenance scheduling and critical component degradation directly translates to improved tool performance, increased uptime and most importantly a reduction in overall cost of ownership."
Veeco formed its partnership with Rudolph to develop technology-specific solutions that work with Veeco's existing system software to enhance etch and deposition tool performance, as well as provide upgrades for Veeco's global install base. The Veeco Predictive Analytics product is based on Rudolph's recently introduced Equipment Sentinel software platform, which features a new smart dashboard platform that allows customers to turn equipment data into operational intelligence.
