Patent ID: 7732108
Filing Date: 2010-06-08
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A method of refining an optical proximity correction (OPC) simulation tool for use in semiconductor fabrication, said method comprising the steps of: designing a mask having at least one feature from a predetermined layout; preparing a mask according to the mask design; simulating a fabrication operation to generate a simulated mask image according to the mask design; comparing the predetermined layout to the simulated mask image to determine at least one simulated mask error (ERR creating at least one structure corresponding to the at least one mask feature on a semiconductor wafer using the mask; measuring the at least one mask feature; measuring the at least one structure to determine its fidelity to the layout; comparing the measurements of the at least one mask feature and the at least one structure to determine at least one actual mask error (ERR comparing the simulated mask error (ERR determining, based at least in part on the at least one fitness value, whether to modify the mask design; and revising the OPC tool based on the results of the comparison of at least one of comparing the predetermined layout step or comparing the measurement step.