Patent ID: 7164465
Filing Date: 2007-01-16
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A method of optimized patterning of feature micropatterns on substrates for projection optical patterning using a plurality of differing projection means, including at least first and second projection means, addressing substrates at a patterning work station, in the following steps: Step 1. Calculating optimum resolution/sequence/position protocols for a given substrate to be presented at such patterning work station, in a sequence including a plurality of substrates to be appropriately patterned with features; Step 2. Positioning such given substrate on a precision positioner for presentation to such patterning work station for pattern scanning; Step 3. Pattern scanning such given substrate for features requiring a first resolution, by a first-resolution protocol providing scanning motion to such given substrate with respect to a patterning beam from said first projection means with parameters corresponding to said first resolution; and Step 4. Patterning such given substrate for features requiring a second resolution, by a second-resolution protocol providing scanning motion to such given substrate with respect to a patterning beam from second projection means with parameters corresponding to said second resolution; whereby the processing of patterning of such given substrate is optimizable for system throughput by such protocols for such parameters as total patterning time duration and use of equipment, with tradeoffs of processing time duration optimization such as accepting for certain features less-than-highest resolution protocol for features not demanding highest resolution, while providing required higher resolution for all features patterned by a higher-resolution protocol.