Samsung Electronics has initiated the creation of its “Smart Sensing System,” aiming to enhance yields and revolutionize operations with their semiconductor fabrication.

The system’s primary purpose is to monitor and analyze the production process in real-time, currently handling plasma uniformity automatically. Samsung envisions a fully automated and human labor-free semiconductor production facility by 2030, with the Smart Sensing System being a crucial element in this transformation, as reported by ET News.

The end goal for Samsung is to establish unmanned semiconductor production facilities by 2030, necessitating the development of systems capable of managing vast amounts of data and optimizing equipment performance automatically.

The ongoing investment of tens of millions of won in projects like smart sensors reflects Samsung’s commitment to achieving this vision, of which I for one am entirely behind given the hazardous nature and chemical exposure when it comes to the chip manufacturing industry, resulting in countless individuals outright filing lawsuits against various corporations.

Such as a lovely case where Intel paid nearly $1.2 Million dollars in a settlement over a gassing incident at its Arizona plant.

Or the infamous IBM Clean Room toxins case.

The smart sensors in development focus on measuring plasma uniformity on wafers, a critical aspect influencing outcomes in semiconductor manufacturing processes such as etching, deposition, and cleaning. Accurate measurement and management of plasma uniformity are vital for successful semiconductor production.

Collaborating with partners and academic institutions, Samsung has undertaken a team effort in developing this system. The compact size of the new sensors is noteworthy, allowing them to seamlessly integrate into existing fabs without requiring additional space in cleanrooms.

Of significance is the fact that these sensors are designed and manufactured in South Korea. Traditionally, South Korean chipmakers, including Samsung, heavily relied on foreign tools for advanced processes.

The development of in-house smart sensing systems represents a strategic shift, reducing this dependence, even though the majority of tools used by Samsung are still produced outside of the country.

Humans simply are no longer needed or necessary for chip production, aside from being exposed to harmful chemicals, an automated solution is free from worker strikes, weekend or holiday breaks, it’s truly the ideal scenario for corporate bigwigs who’ll no doubt profit from this expenditure as humanoid employees are kicked to the curb.