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Manufacturing innovation through simulation
Nobutoshi Aoki, Fellow
Expertise: TCAD simulation
Interview
"Manufacturing innovations that make full use of the computational science simulations"
The creation of a digital twin in the semiconductor field will provide new value and excitement to society.
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Interview video: Manufacturing innovation through simulation
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Expertise
We are developing computer simulation technology for the manufacturing processes and electrical properties of semiconductor devices. We're utilizing them for the R&D of cutting-edge memory devices. This technology is called TCAD, or Technology CAD. Research on complex element structures and new principles of operation is also advancing due to the high integration of semiconductor memories. BiCS FLASH™ has a complex structure, so analysis by semiconductor simulation is indispensable. With simulation, there's no need for experimenting as we can predict the results by calculation. We need to utilize simulation technology to achieve a digital twin, where synergy from linking real-world experiments and simulation on cyberspace actualizes.
KIOXIA's strengths
Our company has highly-skilled engineers in process and device technology as well as circuit and system design technology. These experts have excellent cooperation and mutual understanding, which adds to our strengths. TCAD engineers are also working closely with experts in other technical fields to carry out research and development. That way, we'll be able to see things from a different angle than our expertise. Others can also see how to utilize the technology that we have and bring up new ideas. So, in that sense, I think it's very important to have discussions and boost cooperation with people from different fields.
Contribution to the world 10 years from now
Computational science simulation has evolved from a tool for understanding and explaining phenomena to one that predicts the physical properties and functions of new materials. Manufacturing innovations that make full use of these computational science simulations are taking place in various industrial fields. KIOXIA conducts research and development to bring a world that creates new value and fun by connecting records as digital signals with people, things, and time through the development of semiconductors that use cutting-edge TCAD and computational science simulation technology.
Profile
Nobutoshi Aoki, Fellow, Institute of Memory Technology Research & Development
Brief personal history
- 1990: Completed Physics Major (Doctorate) at Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University
- 1990: Joined Toshiba Corporation, assigned to ULSI Research Laboratory
- 2015: Senior Fellow, Center of Semiconductor Research & Development, Toshiba Corporation
- 2021: Fellow, Device Technology Research & Development Center, KIOXIA Corporation
Expertise
TCAD simulation
- 1990 - 2008: TCAD technology development and high-precision technology development
- 2009 - 2014: Led the development of three-dimensional TCAD systems
- 2015 - 2021: Led the development of TCAD technology and computational chemistry technology
Lecturer
- 2004 - 2016: Guest Associate Professor, New Industry Creation Hatchery Center, Tohoku University
- 2016: Part-time lecturer, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University
- 2020: Part-time lecturer, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University
Awards received
- 2009: Received ADMETA Award 2009, The Japan Society of Applied Physics
External organization officer appointments, etc.
- 2008: Secretary, Silicon Technology Division, The Japan Society of Applied Physics (Current as of 2021)
- 2018: Member, Subcommittee to discuss the strengthening of industrial competitiveness based on computational science, Joint Computational Science Simulation and Engineering Design Committee of the General Engineering Committee and Mechanical Engineering Committee, Science Council of Japan (Current as of 2021)
- The content and profile are current as of the time of the interview (June 2021.)
Related technology topics
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Expertise: Devices and processes
Discussion on the interest in conducting fundamental research at a company, and on contributing to society through semiconductor devices and processes
Expertise: Memory systems
Discussion on the innovation in memory systems that is required to keep winning in the market in the ever-advancing world of computers
Expertise: Flash memory development
Discussion on the memory created through the combination of the best technologies by development leaders who have continued to take on the challenges for the introduction of new technology globally
The Institute of Memory Technology Research and Development is the most advanced technical research institute of KIOXIA Corporation and explores device, process, system, and digital transformation technologies.
KIOXIA has been highly commended for the presentation of its R&D through a variety of channels, including major academic societies and research papers.
People from various backgrounds fulfill their potential and leverage their strengths at KIOXIA.