Patent attributes
A system and method for dynamic heating of a workpiece during processing is disclosed. The system includes an ion source and a plurality of LEDs arranged in an array, which are directed at a portion of the surface of the workpiece. The LEDs are selected so that they emit light in a frequency range that is readily absorbed by the workpiece, thus heating the workpiece. In some embodiments, the LEDs heat a portion of the workpiece just before that portion is processed by an ion beam. In another embodiment, the LEDs heat a portion of the workpiece as it is being processed. The LEDs may be arranged in an array, which may have a width that is at least as wide as the width of the ion beam. The array also has a length, perpendicular to its width, having one or more rows of LEDs.
