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The semiconductor industry is currently facing several challenges, including a global chip shortage, rising costs, and geopolitical tensions. However, companies like Galaxy Semiconductor are using artificial intelligence and machine learning to increase productivity and efficiency in chip manufacturing, which could help ease the current shortage.
Galaxy Semiconductor is one of the leading software companies in the industry, and their innovative software has been demonstrated to increase productivity in chip fabs. The company can analyze vast amounts of data and optimize manufacturing processes by harnessing AI and machine learning. This results in a more efficient and productive process, increasing throughput and decreasing manufacturing costs.
AI and machine learning applications in chip manufacturing are still relatively new, but they can potentially transform the industry. Through predictive analytics, manufacturers can identify equipment problems before they occur and address them proactively. This reduces unplanned downtime and unnecessarily downgraded products, which can significantly impact the bottom line. With the recent chip shortage affecting industries worldwide, Galaxy Semiconductor’s efforts to increase manufacturing efficiency through AI and machine learning are particularly timely.
Galaxy Semiconductor purchased Ippon Innovation, a consulting company that works with customers on advanced statistics and machine learning methods, in January 2022. Ippon Innovation had previously participated in the MadeIn4 project, which aimed to co-develop advanced process control methods. Through the project, Ippon and ST Microelectronics discovered that it is possible to predict manufacturing issues before they result in significant problems.
The algorithm developed by Ippon Innovation develops an expectation for the input parameters, such as temperature and pressure, and how they change over the time series of a particular process batch. The algorithm will then assign a value to the batch called the Optimal Projection Index (OPI), which represents the degree to which a particular batch conforms to the expectation of how the process should behave. The algorithm combines all of the curves mathematically to calculate the OPI, which can be used to identify manufacturing issues before they become significant problems.
With the acquisition of Ippon Innovation, Galaxy Semiconductor is now working to industrialize the software algorithm and make it available to semiconductor materials and electronic chip manufacturers. This could help increase productivity and efficiency in chip manufacturing across the industry, which is critical as demand for chips continues to grow.
According to the 2023 BDO Middle Market CFO Outlook Survey, 32% of companies surveyed plan to pursue digital transformation in 2023, which usually requires chips, indicating strong or increased chip demand even if economic conditions worsen. Despite the current chip shortage, semiconductor manufacturers have reasons to be optimistic. The CHIPS for America Act presents significant expansion opportunities, and long-term demand for chips shows no sign of slowing down. Over half of the survey respondents were concerned about losing orders due to the inability to meet chip manufacturing demand.
All surveyed semiconductor manufacturers plan to apply for CHIPS Act funding, but the large number of companies applying for funding means the process will be highly competitive. In addition to CHIPS Act funding, 40% plan to pursue private financing, and another 40% plan to enter a joint venture. Organizations with private funding as part of their application process will have an advantage in selection.
A slowdown in digital investments could leave less digitally mature semiconductor organizations at a disadvantage in the long term. Semiconductor companies with more advanced predictive maintenance and advanced process control (APC) systems will be better positioned for success.
Although the semiconductor industry is facing obstacles, the application of AI and machine learning in chip manufacturing has the potential to transform the industry. Companies like Galaxy Semiconductor are leading the way in this development, using innovative software to increase productivity and efficiency. As the demand for chips continues to grow, it is clear that the industry will need to continue to innovate and invest in new technologies to meet this demand. For more information on Galaxy Semiconductor, visit their website at https://www.galaxysemi.com/
