Patent ID: 7106412
Filing Date: 2006-09-12
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A lithographic projection apparatus comprising: a support structure constructed and arranged to support a patterning structure, the patterning structure constructed and arranged to pattern a beam of radiation according to a desired pattern; a substrate support constructed and arranged to support a substrate; a projection system constructed and arranged to project the patterned beam of radiation onto a target portion of the substrate; and a gas flushing system comprising a radial gas flow outlet arranged proximate an inner side of the gas flushing system that is adjacent a path of said patterned beam of radiation, said gas flushing system constructed and arranged to generate a radial gas flow through said radial gas flow outlet in an intermediate space defined between said gas flushing system and said substrate, wherein said radial gas flow has a radial velocity directed outwards in said space with a magnitude greater than zero at every location in said space.