High tech qualification tool for design verification
Machines must meet the set specifications, by means of a qualification tool (or Q-tool for short) it is possible to validate whether it meets these requirements. In addition to the qualification tools that Zest-Innovate has created for a module in series production (see article), qualification tools are also used to validate a first design (Design qualification).
As for our other qualification tools, our High Tech customer in the wafer industry is a module that needs to be integrated into a larger whole. During qualifying, the 'bigger picture' is not present. The Q-tool must therefore also mimic all interfaces and features so that the module achieves the same way and the same performance when it is fully integrated.
Specifically for this Q-tool, it is essential that the tool can provide support in testing the new design, but the same tool must also be able to support this module in series production in the future. Certainly in the first design, not all functions are present, correct or complete. Therefore, the Q-tool should be designed in such a way that it can cope with these changes. Think of easily exchanging parts, freeing up space for future functions and easily implementing and expanding existing functions.
It is essential that during the development of the module it is also necessary to consider how this design specification should be qualified. That is why Zest-Innovate has been involved from the very beginning in the development of the module and the specifications that the qualification tool must meet. This requires a lot of coordination with all stakeholders and a critical and flexible attitude from Zest-Innovate.
At the time of writing, the qualification tool has been successfully delivered to our client and is in use to validate the design. Zest-Innovate actively provides service and support to the customer and thinks about how the module changes impact the qualification and qualification tool. This open and active collaboration with the customer is one of the spearheads of Zest-Innovate.
