Advanced crucible support and thermal distribution management
AssigneeGTAT Corporation
InventorsDavid Frances Broyer, Hui Zhang, Ning Duanmu, Ian T. Witting
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An advanced crucible support system is described that allows for greater heat flow to and from the bottom of a crucible, preferably while also preventing excessive heat from reaching a heat exchanger. In particular, a support base is described that includes a plurality of spaced crown features disposed on the support base plate. The crown features receive and vertically support the crucible and are spaced to support the crucible and to allow heat flow between the plurality of crown features. In doing so, a top surface of spaced crown features are in direct contact with the crucible.
Claims9
An apparatus, comprising:
- a crucible;
- a support base plate;
- and
- a plurality of spaced crown features disposed on the support base plate, the crown features configured to receive and vertically support the crucible, the plurality of spaced crown features spaced to support the crucible and to allow heat flow between the plurality of spaced crown features, wherein a top surface of the plurality of spaced crown features are in direct contact with the crucible.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.