Parameter-interval estimation for cooperative reactive sputtering processes

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new parameter-interval estimation method for reactive sputtering processes, ensuring consistent output predictions within specified parameter ranges, validated through experiments.

Contribution

It presents a novel monotonicity-based parameter-interval estimation technique for a reactive sputtering model, enhancing robustness and understanding of process uncertainties.

Findings

Method guarantees output consistency within parameter intervals.

Experimental validation confirms practical applicability.

Reveals structural limitations of existing models.

Abstract

Reactive sputtering is a plasma-based technique to deposit a thin film on a substrate. This contribution presents a novel parameter-interval estimation method for a well-established model that describes the uncertain and nonlinear reactive sputtering process behaviour. Building on a proposed monotonicity-based model classification, the method guarantees that all parameterizations within the parameter interval yield output trajectories and static characteristics consistent with the enclosure induced by the parameter interval. Correctness and practical applicability of the new method are demonstrated by an experimental validation, which also reveals inherent structural limitations of the well-established process model for state-estimation tasks.