Patent ID: 7029944
Filing Date: 2006-04-18
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a microlens structure comprising: a) providing a substrate having a surface with photo-elements on the surface; b) depositing a transparent material overlying the surface of the substrate; c) depositing a CMP stop layer overlying the transparent material; d) depositing a lens-shaping material overlying the CMP stop layer; e) depositing and patterning a photoresist layer overlying the lens-shaping material to form openings to expose the transparent material; f) introducing a first isotropic etchant into the openings and etching the lens-shaping material where exposed to form initial lens shapes having a radius; g) stripping the photoresist; h) exposing the lens-shaping material to a second isotropic etchant to increase the radius of the lens shapes; i) transferring the lens shapes through the CMP layer to the underlying transparent material; and j) depositing a lens material overlying the transparent material, whereby the lens shapes are at least partially filled with lens material.