Patent ID: 6492066
Filing Date: 2002-12-10
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
A method of characterizing optical proximity correction designs, comprising the steps of:performing a mathematical transform on a first feature having a core portion and a first optical proximity correction design applied thereto, wherein the mathematical transform provides a representation of the first feature as a sum or product of functions; performing a mathematical transform on a second feature having the core portion and a second optical proximity correction design applied thereto, wherein the mathematical transform provides a representation of the second feature as a sum or product of functions; obtaining a metric for the transformed first and second features, wherein the metric is based upon a capability of a pattern transfer system which will utilize masks employing the first and second features as patterns thereon, respectively; and selecting one of the first feature or the second feature based upon an application of the metric to the first and second transformed features, thereby selecting the one of the first feature or the second feature which provides for a better pattern transfer performance in order to substantially reproduce the core portion as a patterned feature on a substrate.