Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the journey of Yin Zhiyao, a prominent figure in the semiconductor industry, who transitioned from Silicon Valley to lead a domestic company in China, contributing significantly to the country's semiconductor self-sufficiency and innovation [2][15]. Group 1: Historical Context and Contributions - In 1984, Yin Zhiyao joined Intel, where he made significant improvements in plasma etching technology, enhancing uniformity from ±15% to ±5%, which became an industry standard [5]. - Yin's move to Lam Research in 1986 marked a pivotal point in his career, where he led the development of the "Rainbow" project, resulting in the world's first etching machine capable of 0.5-micron processes, significantly increasing market share [6][8]. - The "Rainbow" project not only showcased the capabilities of Chinese engineers but also disrupted the semiconductor equipment market, proving that Eastern innovation could set global standards [8]. Group 2: Transition to Strategic Leadership - In 1991, Yin Zhiyao became Vice President at Applied Materials, where he transformed the company's etching business by focusing on customer needs and integrating equipment with process solutions, leading to a significant market share increase [10][12]. - His strategic shift towards customization and collaboration with major clients like Samsung and TSMC helped Applied Materials regain its competitive edge, with etching equipment market share rising to 42% by 2004 [12][13]. Group 3: Founding of Zhongwei Company - In 2004, at the age of 60, Yin Zhiyao returned to China to establish Zhongwei Company, focusing on domestic semiconductor equipment production amidst international technological barriers [15]. - Zhongwei's first dry etching machine launched in 2005 filled a critical gap in China's high-end semiconductor equipment market, challenging the dominance of Western firms [16]. - The company faced legal challenges from American firms but successfully built a supply chain that reduced reliance on U.S. components, demonstrating strategic foresight [17]. Group 4: Technological Advancements and Market Impact - By 2017, Zhongwei delivered its first 5nm etching machine, significantly advancing the capabilities of Chinese semiconductor manufacturers and contributing to a rise in domestic chip self-sufficiency from 5% in 2016 to 20% in 2023 [18]. - Zhongwei's innovations in etching technology have begun to dismantle the market monopolies held by major players like Lam Research and Applied Materials, fostering vertical integration within China's semiconductor industry [18]. Group 5: Philosophical Insights and Future Directions - The article concludes with reflections on the nature of technological advancement, emphasizing the importance of deep understanding and persistent effort in overcoming challenges in the semiconductor field [20][21]. - Yin Zhiyao's journey illustrates a broader narrative of China's technological evolution, highlighting the shift from dependency to self-reliance and innovation in the global semiconductor landscape [21].