Patent ID: 6622295
Filing Date: 2003-09-16
Classification: G03F,G06Q,H01J,Y02P

Abstract:
A computer network for generating instructions for use by photomask manufacturing equipment, comprising:an interface computer accessible to a remote customer computer via a remote network connection, and during the network connection, the interface computer operable to perform the following tasks: download a series of display screens to the customer computer, receive photomask specification data from the customer computer, validate the photomask specification data, and download validation results to the customer computer; wherein the screens prompt a customer to enter the photomask specification data, the screens comprising at least a first data screen and a second data screen, and wherein the second data screen lists information based on data provided to the first data screen; wherein the photomask specification data at least identifies layers, patterns, placements, and fracturing data for at least one photomask; a photomask specification database in communication with the interface computer, operable to store the photomask specification data; a command generator in communication with the photomask specification database, operable to generate fracturing instructions and control instructions in response to the photomask specification data; a customer design database that stores design data for the photomask; and a fracture engine that receives the fracturing instructions and the design data and uses this data to generate fractured pattern data.