Patent ID: 7041528
Filing Date: 2006-05-09
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. A method for forming a micro-mechanical component in a semiconductor wafer comprising a membrane layer supported on a handle layer with a buried insulating layer disposed between the membrane layer and the handle layer, the micro-mechanical component being formed in the membrane layer, and a communicating opening extending through the handle layer and the buried insulating layer exposing the micro-mechanical component, the method comprising the steps of: forming at least one trench extending through the membrane layer for defining the micro-mechanical component therein, each trench exposing a portion of the buried insulating layer bridging the trench, and applying a support layer to each bridging portion of the buried insulating layer, the support layer extending across each trench, and being applied to each bridging portion of the buried insulating layer prior to the bridging portion being exposed by the communicating opening through the handle layer for supporting the bridging portion for preventing rupturing of the buried insulating layer when the buried insulating layer is exposed by the communicating opening through the handle layer.