Patent ID: 6771372
Filing Date: 2004-08-03
Classification: G01B,G03F,H01L

Abstract:
A stage system for supporting a sample in a metrology device, comprising:a chuck having an upper surface for supporting a wafer; an axial actuator operationally coupled to the chuck for raising and lowering the chuck in a direction orthogonal to a plane of the upper surface; and a stage positioned to support said chuck, the stage including at least one flexure member coupling the chuck to the stage, such that tilting and lateral movement of the chuck, with respect to the stage, is significantly minimized while the chuck is being raised and lowered, the at least one flexure member including first and second annular membranes each coupling the chuck to the stage; wherein each of said first and second annular membranes is substantially rigid in a direction in the plane of the respective annular membrane and flexible in a direction along a central axis of the respective annular membrane.