Patent ID: 7310141
Filing Date: 2007-12-18
Classification: G01N,G03F

Abstract:
1. A pattern profile inspection apparatus for detecting a profile error of at least one pattern having a cross section with a projection base and a recess, the inspection apparatus comprising: a plate on which the pattern is mounted; a light source which can change an angle of illuminating light to the pattern within a range of 15 to 75 degrees with reference to a top surface of the pattern; and a photodetector which can receive reflected light from the pattern at an angle within a range of 15 to 75 degrees with reference to the top surface of the pattern, wherein the profile error of the pattern is detected based on the amount of the reflected light which is received by the photodetector, from an edge between the top surface and a side surface of each of the patterns and wherein the profile error of the pattern including the edge is small when the amount of reflected light received by the photodetector is large, and, on the contrary, the profile error of the pattern including the edge is large when the amount of the reflected light is small.