Patent ID: 6441371
Filing Date: 2002-08-27
Classification: B82Y,G01Q,Y10S

Abstract:
In a method for obtaining information necessary to analyze physical properties of a sample surface using a scanning probe microscope which has a probe having a cantilever and a tip attached to one end of the cantilever, said method comprising the steps of:providing a first scan at a plurality of positions, which have been pre-set at predetermined intervals on the sample surface, during movement of the probe along the sample surface in order to acquire information on the sample surface while deflection or amplitude of the cantilever maintains a predetermined setpoint by a feedback control; determining an average plane of the sample surface based on data provided by the first scan and defining an imaginary line on the average plane in order to specify an area of interest on the sample surface; defining an imaginary inclined plane, one side of which intersects the imaginary line and which makes a predetermined angle with reference to the average plane, over the interested area; and positioning the probe at a predetermined height on the inclined plane and providing a second scan at a plurality of positions, which have been pre-set at predetermined intervals on the inclined plane, while the probe moves downward along the inclined plane to approach the sample surface until the deflection or amplitude of the cantilever meets the predetermined setpoint.