Patent ID: 7388648
Filing Date: 2008-06-17
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A lithographic projection apparatus, comprising: a support structure configured to hold a patterning device and movable in a scanning direction, the patterning device configured to pattern a beam of radiation according to a desired pattern; a substrate table configured to hold a substrate and movable in a scanning direction; a projection system configured to project the patterned beam onto a target portion of the substrate; and a liquid confinement structure extending along at least a part of a boundary of a space between the projection system and the substrate table, the space having a cross-sectional area smaller than the area of the substrate, the liquid confinement structure positioned adjacent a final surface of the projection system and comprising: a first inlet to supply liquid, through which the patterned beam is to be projected, to the space, a first outlet to remove liquid after the liquid has passed under the projection system, a second inlet formed in a face of the structure, the face arranged to oppose a surface of the substrate, and located radially outward, with respect to an optical axis of the projection system, of the space to supply gas, and a second outlet formed in the face and located radially outward, with respect to an optical axis of the projection system, of the second inlet to remove gas.