Case Study
Advanced Robotics Software
for Next-Generation Semiconductor Tool Automation
At a Glance
Dimension | Situation / Before | Mindteck Outcome |
Automation capability | Limited by legacy robotics software | Extended with new motion control and sequencing |
Throughput | Constrained by software-side processing delays | Improved through optimised robotics control logic |
Reliability | Intermittent faults in wafer handling sequences | Hardened with fault-tolerant control architecture |
The Challenge
A semiconductor equipment manufacturer was developing next-generation tool automation with a robotics platform designed for higher throughput, greater precision, and more complex wafer handling sequences than previous generations. The robotics control software needed to manage multi-axis motion, real-time sensor feedback, collision avoidance, and complex sequencing logic — while meeting the uptime and reliability requirements of production semiconductor fabs where equipment downtime is measured in thousands of dollars per hour.
The Mindteck Approach
Developed embedded robotics control software managing multi-axis motion profiles, trajectory planning, and real-time sensor integration for the client's next-generation tool platform
Implemented fault-tolerant sequencing logic with comprehensive error detection, graceful recovery procedures, and safe-state management for all abnormal conditions
Optimised motion control algorithms for throughput — reducing cycle times for wafer transfer sequences while maintaining the positional accuracy required for leading-edge process nodes
Built simulation and test infrastructure allowing robotics control software to be validated and tuned without requiring physical equipment — reducing development cycle time
Conducted on-tool validation with the client's hardware engineering team, iterating on control parameters to meet the combined software and mechanical performance specification
In a semiconductor fab, robotics software failure is not an inconvenience — it is a production event. Mindteck built the reliability and performance required for that environment. |
The Outcome
The client's next-generation tool platform achieved its robotics performance targets — meeting throughput, accuracy, and uptime requirements for production fab deployment. Fault-tolerant control logic significantly reduced the frequency and severity of robotics-related equipment faults in system integration testing. The simulation infrastructure accelerated the development and tuning cycle, compressing the timeline from initial software delivery to on-tool qualification. The engagement deepened Mindteck's robotics software capability in semiconductor automation — one of the most technically demanding application areas in the industry.
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