creative tool
Process Functional Modeling (PFM) is an analytical tool to learn the process through modeling of different operations, solving problems, and defining ways to the improvement of any fabrication process. PFM is an extension of the System Functional Modeling (SFM) and it allows us to analyze the whole process vs one particular operation in the process.
Among many cases when Process Functional Modeling is useful for us as problem solvers and innovators, we want to highlight just a few:
Implementing PFM can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency. By breaking down each operation within a process, organizations can pinpoint specific areas that require enhancement. This detailed understanding helps in reducing bottlenecks, improving throughput, and ultimately increasing overall productivity. Additionally, PFM facilitates better communication among team members as it establishes a clear and common understanding of the process, ensuring everyone is aligned with the goals and objectives.
As technology continues to evolve, the integration of advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning with PFM is becoming more prevalent. These technologies can enhance the analytical capabilities of PFM, allowing for real-time monitoring and more accurate predictions of process performance. Additionally, the increasing adoption of digital twins—a virtual replica of physical processes—enables organizations to simulate and test process changes in a risk-free environment before implementing them in the real world. These trends are set to further revolutionize the way businesses optimize their processes.
Wet cleaning is widely used in microchip manufacturing. Single wafer equipment is working as follows. A wafer rotates, and chemistry is poured from a movable nozzle. Water rinsing is performed at the end of the process. Loading of a new batch of the chemistry resulted in excursion - a strongly increased amount of defects was observed on the wafer after the processing. The project is dedicated to the failure analysis and creation of innovative solutions.
The process is related to microelectronics - microchip manufacturing.The purpose of the process is to create a SiO2 layer on the surface of a Si wafer. Equipment: Vertical furnace to heat the wafers in the Q2 atmosphere and perform oxidation on the wafer surface. Process: The oxidation occurs on the front side and on the back side of the wafer Requirements: Create a SiO2 thin layer with a certain thickness and low sigma - low standard deviation of the thickness between the wafers and within the waferFailure: Wafers from the lower zone have higher thickness and significantly higher within wafer sigma (standard deviation of the thickness within the wafer)
This project showcases how functional modeling can drive innovation by analyzing and simulating various versions of a vacuum cleaner. By studying the functional model, you will experience firsthand how the Functional Modeling creative thinking tool helps identify opportunities for improvement and generate innovative ideas for the next generation of products.Through this example, you’ll learn how to dissect the functionality of a vacuum cleaner, revealing ways to enhance its performance, efficiency, and user experience—ultimately paving the way for future innovations.
In response to the potential outbreak of a third world war and the risk of Egypt becoming isolated from global trade and financial systems, this project aims to develop a self-sustaining, decentralized digital ecosystem. The goal is to ensure economic stability, resource accessibility, and secure communication for citizens, businesses, and the government in times of crisis.This solution will be delivered as an application-based platform that integrates barter trade, digital currency, AI-driven supply chain management, emergency communication, and cybersecurity measures. By leveraging blockchain technology, AI-powered logistics, and decentralized networking, the platform will enable uninterrupted trade, resource distribution, and crisis coordination without reliance on external financial institutions or internet-based infrastructure.
Flash heating of a wafer is widely used in microchip manufacturing. The purpose of the process is to prevent the diffusion of ions and atoms. During the flash process, a wafer breakage occurs. The project's purpose is to learn and understand the mechanism of the wafer breakage and propose the solutions to prevent the wafer breakage
An example of how to make task prioritization with Urgency - Important Matrix (UMI) using the PRIZ Innovation Platform
The vacuum cleaner problem is an excellent example showing how to manage and resolve excursion - unexpected deviation from normal operation. Read, learn and use the platform for resolving of your excursions.
The vacuum furnace is used for sintering parts made of metal powder. To keep the shape of the parts, a binder is used. The main problem is that the vacuum furnace becomes dirty and needs a very long cleaning. Regular washing was not successful. We investigated the process and found that washing should be dedicated to the conversion of the material into a form that results in the formation of gases having low temperature of the condensation
