Patent ID: 7984392
Filing Date: 2011-07-19
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A matching method for designing layout patterns on a photomask, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a layout having a plurality of initial layout cells; (b) using a hierarchical method to obtain a hierarchical structure having the plurality of initial layout cells; (c) categorizing ones of the plurality of initial layout cells having a specific pattern into a group; (d) inversing the layout to obtain an inversed layout having a plurality of inversed layout cells corresponding to the plurality of initial layout cells; (e) smoothening the inversed layout to obtain a photomask layout having a plurality of photomask layout cells corresponding to the plurality of initial layout cells; and (f) assimilating the photomask layout cells in the group into a selected photomask cell to obtain an assimilated photomask layout.