Patent ID: 6792592
Filing Date: 2004-09-14
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
A method for performing an optical proximity correction (OPC) process on a layout for an integrated circuit (IC) using a selected mask writer description, wherein the layout is comprised of a plurality of features, the method comprising:specifying the selected mask writer description so that the OPC process uses the selected mask writer description to control the parameters of the OPC process, wherein the selected mask writer description specifies: a mask writer type; a placement accuracy that specifies the accuracy that the mask writer uses to place figures on the mask, a minimum rotated width for figures on the mask; an angle limitation that specifies the types of angles the mask writer will produce on the mask, and a figure limitation that specifies the types of figures the mask writer will produce on the mask; segmenting the plurality of features in the layout into a plurality of segments using the selected mask writer description; simulating environment for each segment in the plurality of segments using the selected mask writer description; adjusting segments in the plurality of segments responsive to the simulating and using the selected mask writer description; and repeating the segmenting, simulating and adjusting until a termination condition is satisfied.