Patent Publication Number: US-2013250271-A1

Title: Stage assembly with secure device holder

Description:
RELATED INVENTION 
     This application claims priority on U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/600,351, filed Feb. 17, 2012 and entitled “STAGE ASSEMBLY WITH SECURE DEVICE HOLDER”. As far as permitted, the contents of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/600,351 are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Exposure apparatuses for semiconductor processing are commonly used to transfer images from a reticle onto a semiconductor wafer during semiconductor processing. A typical exposure apparatus includes an illumination source that directs light energy at the reticle, a reticle stage assembly that holds and positions a reticle, an optical assembly, a wafer stage assembly that holds and positions a semiconductor wafer, a measurement system, and a control system. 
     One type of reticle stage assembly includes a stage having a device holder that retains the reticle, and a stage mover assembly that moves the stage. The light directed at the reticle can cause thermal distortions to the reticle. Thus, it is often desired to bend the reticle to correct for the thermal distortions. 
     One type of device holder is a vacuum type chuck that uses a vacuum to pull the device against the stage. Unfortunately, existing chucks do not accurately bend the reticle and/or do not have a sufficient bending range. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention is directed a stage assembly that moves a device positioned in an environment that is at an environmental pressure. The stage assembly includes a stage housing and a device holder. The device holder selectively secures the device to the stage housing. In one embodiment, the device holder includes a first holder that defines a first pivot that engages the device, and a pressure source that is in fluid communication with the first holder. The pressure source creates (i) a pressure controlled, first distal zone between the first holder and device that is at a first distal pressure, and (ii) a pressure controlled, first proximal zone between the first holder and device that is at a first proximal pressure. The first proximal zone is closer to a predetermined axis (e.g. a center or central axis) of the device than the first distal zone. In certain embodiments, (i) at least one of the first pressures is less than the environmental pressure, (ii) the first distal pressure in the first distal zone generates a first distal moment on the device near the first pivot, and (iii) the first proximal pressure in the first proximal zone generates a first proximal moment on the device near the first pivot. 
     With this design, the device holder accurately and securely retains and holds a device with a relatively high holding force. Further, the device holder can be used to accurately bend the device, the device holder has a relatively large bending range, and the device holder can perform higher-order bending. Moreover, the device holder maximizes first and second order stroke without significantly sacrificing the holding force. 
     In one embodiment, the pressure source controls each of the first pressures to be are less than the environmental pressure. In this embodiment, the first distal moment is substantially opposite in direction to the first proximal moment. Alternatively, the pressure source can control one of the first pressures to be greater than the environmental pressure. In this embodiment, the first distal moment is substantially in the same direction as the first proximal moment. In each of these embodiments, the pressure source can control the first pressures to control the shape of the device. 
     In one embodiment, the first pivot is positioned in the first distal zone. Alternatively, the first pivot can be positioned intermediate the first distal zone and the first proximal zone. 
     In certain embodiments, the first pivot provides an area of approximate line contact with the device. 
     Additionally, the device holder can includes a second holder that is spaced apart from the first holder, the second holder defining a second pivot that also engages the device. In this embodiment, the pressure source is in fluid communication with the second holder to provide (i) a pressure controlled, second distal zone between the second holder and device that is at a second distal pressure, and (ii) a pressure controlled, second proximal zone between the second holder and device that is at a second proximal pressure. Further, in this embodiment, (i) the second proximal zone is closer to the central axis than the second distal zone, (ii) at least one of the second pressures is less than the environmental pressure, (iii) the second distal pressure in the second distal zone generates a second distal moment on the device near the second pivot, and (iv) the second proximal pressure in the second proximal zone generates a second proximal moment on the device near the second pivot. 
     Moreover, in certain embodiments, the device is retained a relatively small fluid gap away from the first holder so that the device experiences squeeze film damping. 
     The present invention is also directed to an exposure apparatus including the stage assembly retaining the device, and an illumination system that directs an energy beam at the device. Further, the present invention is also directed to a wafer, and a method for manufacturing an object or a wafer. 
     In yet another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for retaining a device including the steps of (i) positioning the device on a first pivot of a first holder; (ii) generating a first distal moment on the device near the first pivot by creating a pressure controlled, first distal zone between the first holder and the device that is at a first distal pressure; and (iii) generating a first proximal moment on the device near the first pivot by creating a pressure controlled, first proximal zone between the first holder and the device that is at a first proximal pressure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified side view of a stage mover assembly having features of the present invention retaining a device; 
         FIG. 2  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device and a device holder having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of a holder having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3B  is a top view of the holder of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3C  is a perspective view of a portion of the holder of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3D  is a top view of a portion of the holder of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3E  is a perspective cut-away view of a portion of the holder of  FIG. 3C ; 
         FIG. 3F  is a cut-away view of the holder of  FIG. 3C ; 
         FIG. 4  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device and another embodiment of a device holder having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device and still another embodiment of a device holder having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6A  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device and yet another embodiment of a device holder having features of the present invention in an unlocked position; 
         FIG. 6B  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device and the device holder of  FIG. 6A  in a locked position; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of another embodiment of a holder having features of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a simplified perspective view of one embodiment of a pivot having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of a pivot having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10A  is a simplified partially cut away view of a device and another embodiment of a holder having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10B  is a simplified cut away view taken on line  10 B- 10 B in  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 10C  is a simplified cut away view taken on line  10 C- 10 C in  FIG. 10A  illustrating the holder bending the device in a concave fashion; 
         FIG. 10D  is still another alternative cut away view of  FIG. 10C , with the holder bending the device in a convex fashion; 
         FIG. 10E  is a more detailed, perspective view of the holder of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 10F  is an exploded perspective view of the holder of  FIG. 10E ; 
         FIG. 11  is a simplified illustration of an exposure apparatus having features of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12A  is a flow chart that outlines a process for manufacturing a device in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 12B  is a flow chart that outlines device processing in more detail. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION 
     Referring initially to  FIG. 1 , a stage assembly  10  having features of the present invention includes a stage base  12 , a stage  14 , a stage mover  16  (illustrated as a box), and a control system  18 . The design of each of these components can be varied to suit the design requirements of the assembly  10 . As an overview, the stage  14  includes a device holder  20  that accurately and securely retains and holds a device  22  with a relatively high holding force. Further, in certain embodiments, the device holder  20  accurately bends the device  22 , has a relatively large bending range, relatively high pitching stiffness, relatively high dynamic modes, and is relatively easy to expand for higher-order bending. Moreover, the device holder  20  maximizes first and second order stroke without significantly sacrificing holding force. Additionally, the device holder  20  is a relatively simple mechanism to manufacture and assemble. 
     The stage assembly  10  is particularly useful for precisely positioning the device  22  during a manufacturing, a measuring and/or an inspection process. The type of device  22  positioned and moved by the stage assembly  10  can be varied. For example, the device  22  can be a reticle, and the stage assembly  10  can be used as part of an exposure apparatus for manufacturing of a semiconductor wafer. The reticle can be transmissive or reflective. 
     Alternately, for example, the stage assembly  10  can be used to move other types of devices during manufacturing and/or inspection, to move a device under an electron microscope (not shown), or to move a device during a precision measurement operation. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the device  22  is generally rectangular shaped and includes (i) four sides, namely a left first side  22 A, a right second side  22 B that is spaced apart from the left first side  22 A, a front side  22 C and a rear side (not visible in  FIG. 1 ); (ii) a top  22 D; (iii) a bottom  22 E, and (iv) a predetermined axis  22 F (illustrated as a circle with an X) between the first side  22 A and the second side  22 B. Alternatively, the device  22  can have another configuration. In certain embodiments, the predetermined axis  22 F is a center axis. 
     Some of the Figures provided herein include an orientation system that designates an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. It should be understood that the orientation system is merely for reference and can be varied. For example, the X axis can be switched with the Y axis and/or the stage assembly  10  can be rotated. Moreover, these axes can alternatively be referred to as a first, second, or third axis. 
     In the embodiments illustrated herein, the stage assembly  10  includes a single stage  14  that is moved relative to the stage base  12 . Alternately, for example, the stage assembly  10  can be designed to include multiple stages that are independently moved relative to the stage base  12 . 
     The stage base  12  supports a portion of the stage assembly  10 . In  FIG. 1 , the stage base  12  is generally rectangular shaped. In certain embodiments, the stage base  12  can include a base aperture  12 A (illustrated in phantom) that allows light to pass therethrough. For example, the base aperture  12 A can be a generally rectangular shaped opening. 
     The stage  14  retains the device  22 . The stage  14  is precisely moved by the stage mover  16  to precisely position the device  22 . In certain embodiments, the stage  14  includes a rigid stage housing  14 A that can have a stage aperture  14 B (illustrated in phantom) that allows light to pass therethrough. For example, the stage housing  14 A can be generally rectangular shaped, and the stage aperture  14 BA can be a generally rectangular shaped opening. 
     Additionally, the stage  14  includes the device holder  20  that securely retains the device  22 . In one embodiment, the device holder  20  includes (i) a left, first holder  24 A, (ii) a right, second holder  24 B is that spaced apart from the first holder  24 A, and (iii) a pressure source  26  that is in fluid communication with the holders  24 A,  24 B. In one embodiment, the pressure source  26  supplies a controlled pressurized fluid and/or a controlled vacuum to the holders  24 A,  24 B so that the holders  24 A,  24 B cooperate to retain the device  22 . The design of these components can vary pursuant to the teachings provided herein. 
     In  FIG. 1 , the first holder  24 A retains the device  22  near the first side  22 A, and the second holder  24 B retains the device  22  near the second side  22 B. With the present design, the holders  24 A,  24 B can be individually adjusted via the pressure source  26  to precisely adjust the holding force and bending of the device  22 . 
     It should be noted that the stage housing  14 A and the holders  24 A,  24 B can be made as a one piece, monolithic structure. Alternatively, the holders  24 A,  24 B and the stage housing  14 A can be made from separate structures, and the holders  24 A,  24 B can be fixedly secured to the stage housing  14 A. 
     The stage mover  16  moves and positions the stage  14  relative to the stage base  12 . For example, the stage mover  16  can move the stage  14  along the X, Y and Z axes, and about the X, Y and Z axes (six degrees of freedom). Alternatively, the stage mover  16  can move the stage with fewer than six degrees of freedom. 
     The control system  18  is electrically connected to and directs and controls electrical current to the stage mover  16  to precisely position the device  22 . Further, the control system  18  is electrically connected to and controls the device holder  20  to control the holding force and selectively apply bending moments on the device  22  to control the shape of the device  22 . The control system  18  can include one or more processors. 
     As non-exclusive examples, the bending moments selectively applied to the device  22  can be used (i) to lessen or counteract the effects of gravity on the device  22 , (ii) to counteract the influence of thermal gradients on the device  22 , (iii) to correct a deformed device  22 , (iv) to counteract thermal distortion in other components, such as the lens of the projection optical assembly, (v) to correct for other errors that occur in the exposure process such as positioning errors, and/or (v) to provide another adjustment to the exposure apparatus. As provided herein, the device  22  can be selectively distorted to achieve substantial flatness of the device  22 , and/or to create the shape of the device  22  that is necessary to achieve the desired pattern transfer. 
     In certain embodiments, the control system  18  includes a feedback system  27  (illustrated as a box) that provides feedback regarding one or more characteristics of the device  22 . For example, the feedback system  27  can include an auto-focus system that constantly or intermittently monitors shape of the device  22 . With this design, the control system  18  can utilize the feedback to control the pressure source  26  to adjust the shape of the device  22  to achieve the desired shape. Alternatively or additionally, the feedback system  27  can include one or more temperature sensors that monitor the temperature at one or more locations on the device  22 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, the control system  18  can include a simulated model of the device  22  that simulates the conditions in which the device  22  is being exposed. Using information from the model, the control system  18  can control the pressure source  26  to apply the appropriate moments on the device  22  to achieve the desired shaped of the device  22 . 
     It should be noted that the stage assembly  10  and the device  22  are positioned in an environment that is at an environmental pressure. Typically, the stage assembly  10  is operated in an environment that is at atmospheric pressure. Alternatively, the environmental pressure can be greater than or less than atmospheric pressure. 
       FIG. 2  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device  22 , and a first embodiment of the device holder  220  including the first holder  224 A, the second holder  224 B, and the pressure source  226 . In this embodiment, the first holder  224 A includes a first holder housing  228 A that defines (i) a first pivot  230 A that engages the bottom  22 E of the device  22 ; (ii) a first distal region  232 A adjacent the bottom  22 E of the device  22 ; and (iii) a first proximal region  234 A adjacent the bottom  22 E of the device  22 . Similarly, the second holder  224 B includes a second holder housing  228 B that defines (i) a second pivot  230 B that engages the bottom  22 E of the device  22 ; (ii) a second distal region  232 B adjacent the bottom  22 E of the device  22 ; and (iii) a second proximal region  234 B adjacent the bottom  22 E of the device  22 . The first pivot  230 A is spaced apart from the second pivot  230 B along the X axis. 
     In one non-exclusive embodiment, each holder housing  228 A,  228 B is a generally rectangular shaped rigid block. However, each holder housing  228 A,  228 B can have different shape or configuration than that illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
     In certain embodiments, each pivot  230 A,  230 B provides an area of approximate line contact (extending along the Y axis) with the bottom  22 E of the device  22 . The pivots  230 A,  230 B are spaced apart, so that the device  22  is supported by the two spaced apart line contacts that extend along the Y axis. In one embodiment, each pivot  230 A,  230 B can be rigid along the Z axis, along the Y axis, about the X axis, and about the Z axis, and compliant along the X axis, and about the Y axis. Each pivot  230 A,  230 B can also be referred to as a fulcrum. 
     It should be noted that in  FIG. 2 , the first pivot  230 A is positioned in the first distal region  232 A, and the first proximal region  234 A is positioned near the first distal region  232 A and the first pivot  230 A. Further, the first proximal region  234 A is closer to the center axis  22 F of the device  22  than the first distal region  232 A. Similarly, the second pivot  230 B is positioned in the second distal region  232 B, and the second proximal region  234 B is near the second distal region  232 B and the second pivot  230 B. Further, the second proximal region  234 B is closer to the center axis  22 F of the device  22  than the second distal region  232 B. 
     Moreover, (i) a center  232 AC (illustrated with a circle and an X) of the first distal region  232 A near the device  22  is left of first pivot  230 A; (ii) a center  234 AC (illustrated with a circle and an X) of the first proximal region  234 A near the device is right of first pivot  230 A; (iii) a center  232 BC (illustrated with a circle and an X) of the second distal region  232 B near the device is right of second pivot  230 B; and (iv) a center  234 BC (illustrated with a circle and an X) of the second proximal region  234 B near the device is left of second pivot  230 B. 
     In one embodiment, the pressure source  226  controls (i) a first distal pressure in the first distal region  232 A to create a pressure controlled, first distal zone  236 A between the device  22  and the first holder  224 A; (ii) a first proximal pressure in the first proximal region  234 A to create a pressure controlled first proximal zone  238 A between the device  22  and the first holder  224 A; (iii) a second distal pressure in the second distal region  232 B to create a pressure controlled, second distal zone  236 B between the device  22  and the second holder  224 B; and (iv) a second proximal pressure in the second proximal region  234 B to create a pressure controlled, second proximal zone  238 B between the device  22  and the second holder  224 B. 
     As provided herein, the pressure source  226  can individually control the pressure in each of the regions  232 A,  234 A,  232 B,  234 B to be below the environmental pressure or above the environmental pressure as required to achieve the desired shaped of the device  22 . 
     As used herein, the term “negative pressure” shall refer to a gaseous pressure that is less than (below) the environmental pressure, and the term “positive pressure” shall refer to a gaseous pressure that is greater than the environmental pressure. If the environmental pressure is equal to the atmospheric pressure, (i) a negative pressure is less than atmospheric pressure (e.g. a vacuum, or partial vacuum), and (ii) a positive pressure is greater than atmospheric pressure. 
     In one embodiment, the pressure source  226  can individually control the pressure in each of the regions  232 A,  234 A,  232 B,  234 B to be a negative pressure. With this embodiment, the negative pressure (i) in the first distal zone  236 A will create a first distal force  240 A (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  22 ; (ii) in the first proximal zone  238 A will create a first proximal force  242 A (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  22 ; (iii) in the second distal zone  236 B will create a second distal force  240 B (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  22 ; and (iv) in the second proximal zone  238 B will create a second proximal force  242 B (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  22 . With this design, the first forces  240 A,  242 A will pull/urge the device  22  against the first pivot  230 A, and the second forces  240 B,  242 B will pull/urge the device  22  against the second pivot  230 B. 
     It should be noted that although each force  240 A,  240 B,  242 A,  242 B is illustrated as a single arrow centered in its respective zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B, in reality, each force  240 A,  240 B,  242 A,  242 B is actually distributed along the area of its respective zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2 , (i) the first proximal force  242 A and the bulk of the first distal force  240 A are positioned on opposite sides of the first pivot  230 A; and (ii) the second proximal force  242 B and the bulk of the second distal force  240 B are positioned on opposite sides of the second pivot  230 B. 
     In one embodiment, the size of each region  232 A,  234 A,  232 B,  234 B can be varied and selected to provide the desired range of possible forces  240 A,  240 B,  242 A,  242 B at each zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B. Further, the pressure in the zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  240 A,  240 B,  242 A,  242 B. Thus, the pressure in each zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B can be individually adjusted to adjust the holding force of the device holder  220 . 
     Moreover, as provided herein, the pressure in one or more of the zones  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B can be individually adjusted to adjust the shape of the device  22 . As provided herein, (i) because the first pivot  230 A is offset (positioned to the right) from center  232 AC in the first distal zone  236 A, the first distal force  240 A will create a first distal moment  244 A about (near) the first pivot  230 A on the device  22 ; (ii) the first proximal force  242 A will create a first proximal moment  246 A about (near) the first pivot  230 A on the device  22 ; (iii) because the second pivot  230 B is offset (positioned to the left) from the center  232 BC in the second distal zone  236 B, the second distal force  240 B will create a second distal moment  244 B about (near) the second pivot  230 B on the device  22 ; and (iv) the second proximal force  242 B will create a second proximal moment  246 B about (near) the second pivot  230 B on the device  22 . With this design, the pressure in each zone  236 A,  236 B,  238 A,  238 B can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  240 A,  240 B,  242 A,  242 B, and individually adjust each moment  244 A,  244 B,  246 A,  246 B that is applied to the device  22 , and ultimately control the shape of the device  22 . 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG. 2 , (i) the first distal moment  244 A is opposite in direction to the first proximal moment  246 A, and (ii) the second distal moment  244 B is opposite to the second proximal moment  246 B. As viewed in  FIG. 2 , (i) the first distal moment  244 A and the second proximal moment  246 B are counterclockwise, and (ii) the second distal moment  244 B and the first proximal moment  246 A are clockwise. 
     As a simplified example, if the pressures are controlled so that (i) the first distal moment  244 A is greater than the first proximal moment  246 A, and (ii) the second distal moment  244 B is greater than the second proximal moment  246 B, the device  22  is bent in a concave fashion with the center axis  22 F being moved upward. In contrast, if the pressures are controlled so that (i) the first distal moment  244 A is less than the first proximal moment  246 A, and (ii) the second distal moment  244 B is less than the second proximal moment  246 B, the device  22  is bent in a convex fashion with the center axis  22 F being moved downward. Thus, the bending moments  244 A,  244 B,  246 A,  246 B generated by the device holder  220  provided herein can be adjusted to move the center axis  22 F of the device  22  upward or down. Further, the bending moments  244 A,  244 B,  246 A,  246 B can be individually adjusted to change the shape of the device  22  in other, more complicated fashions. Stated in another fashion, the device holder  220  can be used to bend the device in both directions and to apply moments in both directions. 
     In  FIG. 2 , each region  232 A,  232 B,  234 A,  234 B includes one or more cavities that are subject to the controlled pressure. 
     With the embodiments disclosed herein, the problem of an overly complex mechanism for holding and bending a device  22  (e.g. a reticle) is solved by a relatively simple device holder  220  that holds and bends the device  22 . As provided herein, the device holder  220  including a two pivots (fulcrums)  230 A  230 B, and multiple pressure-controlled zones  236 A- 238 B to control the applied bending moments and to secure the device  22  to the pivots  230 A  230 B. 
     Further, the device holder  220  has relatively high reticle pitching stiffness, and relatively high dynamic modes. Further, the device holder  220  is relatively simple to manufacture and assemble, and is easy to expand the design for higher-order bending. 
     Moreover, the device holder  220  has a relatively large bending range and a relatively large holding force with only line contact at the pivots  230 A  230 B. Additionally, the holding and bending mechanisms are integrated together. 
     Additionally, the device holder  220  is compatible with a conventional sized or larger sized pellicle frame. 
       FIG. 3A  is a perspective view and  FIG. 3B  is a top view of one embodiment of the holder  324  of the device holder  320  that can be used as either the first holder or the second holder. In this embodiment, the holder  324  includes the holder housing  328  that defines (i) the pivot  330 ; (ii) the distal region  332 ; and (iii) the proximal region  334 . Further, the pivot  330  provides an area of approximate line contact along the Y axis with the device  22  (illustrated in  FIG. 2 ). In certain embodiments, the pivot  330  extends almost the entire length of the device  22  along the Y axis. 
     In one embodiment, (i) the pivot  330  is divided into a plurality of pivot sections, namely a front pivot section  330 A, a middle pivot section  330 B, and a rear pivot section  330 B that are aligned along the Y axis; (ii) the distal region  332  is divided into a plurality of distal sub-regions, namely a front distal sub-region  332 A, a middle distal sub-region  332 B, and a rear distal sub-region  332 C that are aligned along the Y axis; and (iii) the proximal region  334  is divided into a plurality of proximal sub-regions, namely a front proximal sub-region  334 A, a middle proximal sub-region  334 B, and a rear proximal sub-region  334 C that are aligned along the Y axis. Alternatively, (i) the pivot  330  can be divided into more than three or fewer than three pivot sections; (ii) the distal region  332  can be divided into more than three or fewer than three distal sub-regions; and/or (iii) the proximal region  334  can be divided into more than three or fewer than three proximal sub-regions. 
     In this embodiment, the middle pivot section  330 B is larger than the front pivot section  330 A and the rear pivot section  330 C, and the front pivot section  330 A is approximately the same size as the rear pivot section  330 B. For example, the middle pivot section  330 B can be approximately two times bigger than the front pivot section  330 A. Alternatively, each pivot section  330 A,  330 B,  330 C can be approximately the same size or the proportions can be different than that illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
     Similarly, in this embodiment, the middle distal sub-region  332 B is larger than the front distal sub-region  332 A and the rear distal sub-region  332 C, and the front distal sub-region  332 A is approximately the same size as the rear distal sub-region  332 B. For example, the middle distal sub-region  332 B can be approximately two times bigger than the front distal sub-region  332 A. Alternatively, each distal sub-region  332 A,  332 B,  332 C can be approximately the same size or the proportions can be different than that illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
     Moreover, in this embodiment, the middle proximal sub-region  334 B is larger than the front proximal sub-region  334 A and the rear proximal sub-region  334 C, and the front proximal sub-region  334 A is approximately the same size as the rear proximal sub-region  334 B. For example, the middle proximal sub-region  334 B can be approximately two times bigger than the front proximal sub-region  334 A. Alternatively, each proximal sub-region  334 A,  334 B,  334 C can be approximately the same size or the proportions can be different than that illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
     Further, this embodiment, (i) the front pivot section  330 A is positioned in the front distal sub-region  332 A; (ii) the middle pivot section  330 B is positioned in the middle distal sub-region  332 B; and (iii) the rear pivot section  330 C is positioned in the rear distal sub-region  332 C. 
     With the design illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the device  22  (illustrated in  FIG. 2 ) adjacent the holder  324  creates (i) a pressure controlled front distal zone  336 A at the front distal sub-region  332 A; (ii) a pressure controlled middle distal zone  336 B at the middle distal sub-region  332 B; (iii) a pressure controlled rear distal zone  336 C at the rear distal sub-region  332 C; (iv) a pressure controlled front proximal zone  338 A at the front proximal sub-region  334 A; (v) a pressure controlled middle proximal zone  338 B at the middle proximal sub-region  334 B; and (vi) a pressure controlled rear proximal zone  338 C at the rear proximal sub-region  338 C. 
     In certain embodiments, the pressure source  326  individually controls the pressure at each zone  336 A,  336 B,  336 C,  338 A,  338 B,  338 C. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the pressure source  326  individually controls the pressure in each zone  336 A,  336 B,  336 C,  338 A,  338 B,  338 C to be at a negative pressure. 
     A provided herein, (i) a negative front distal pressure in the front distal zone  336 A will create a front distal force  340 A downward on the device  22 , and a front distal moment  344 A on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 ; (ii) a negative middle distal pressure in the middle distal zone  336 B will create a middle distal force  340 B downward on the device  22 , and a middle distal moment  344 B on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 ; (iii) a negative rear distal pressure in the rear distal zone  336 C will create a rear distal force  340 C downward on the device  22 , and a rear distal moment  344 C on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 ; (iv) a negative front proximal pressure in the front proximal zone  338 A will create a front proximal force  342 A downward on the device  22 , and a front proximal moment  346 A on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 ; (v) a negative middle proximal pressure in the middle proximal zone  338 B will create a middle proximal force  342 B downward on the device  22 , and a middle proximal moment  346 B on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 ; and (vi) a negative rear proximal pressure in the rear proximal zone  338 C will create a rear proximal force  340 C downward on the device  22 , and a rear proximal moment  346 C on the device  22  because of the offset positioning of the pivot  330 . In this embodiment, as viewed in  FIG. 3A , each distal moment  344 A- 344 C is counterclockwise and each proximal moment is clockwise  346 A- 346 C. 
     The front forces  340 A,  342 A will pull the device  22  against the front pivot  330 A, the middle forces  340 B,  342 B will pull the device  22  against the middle pivot  330 B, and the rear forces  340 C,  342 C will pull the device  22  against the rear pivot  330 C. In one embodiment, the size of each region  332 A- 334 C can be varied and selected to provide the desired range of possible forces  340 A- 342 C at each respective zone  336 A- 338 C. Further, the pressure at each zone  336 A- 338 C can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  340 A- 342 C and each bending moment  334 A- 346 C applied to the device. Thus, the pressure at each zone  336 A- 338 C can be individually adjusted to adjust the holding force and to adjust the shape of the device  22 . 
     It should be noted that higher order bending of the device is possible simply by increasing the number of individually controlled zones. 
     As a non-exclusive example, the pressure source  326  can individually control the pressure in each at each zone  336 A- 338 C to be between approximately zero and negative eighty kilopascals (0 to −80 kPa). Alternatively, other pressures can be utilized. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the pressure source  326  maintains a constant pressure in each of the distal zones  336 A,  336 B,  336 C at approximately negative seventy kilopascals (−70 kPa), and the pressure source  326  individually adjusts the pressure in each proximal zone  338 A,  338 B,  338 C to be in the range of between approximately negative five to negative sixty kilopascals (−5 to −60 kPa) as needed to achieve the desired bending moments and holding force. 
       FIG. 3C  is a perspective view and  FIG. 3D  is a top view of a portion of the holder  324  of  FIGS. 3A and 3B .  FIG. 3E  is a perspective view cut-away and  FIG. 3F  is a cut-away view taken on line  3 E- 3 E in  FIG. 3C  of a portion of the holder  324 . More specifically,  FIGS. 3C-3F  illustrate (i) the front pivot section  330 A; (ii) a portion of the middle pivot section  330 B; (iii) the front distal sub-region  332 A; (iv) a portion of the middle distal sub-region  332 B; (v) the front proximal sub-region  334 A; and (vi) a portion of the middle proximal sub-region  334 B. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3E and 3F , in one embodiment, the front pivot section  330 A includes a pivot body  350 A and a pivot contact  350 B. The other pivot sections can be similar in design to the front pivot section  330 A. In this embodiment, the pivot body  350 A is long (along the Y axis), thin (along the X axis) rectangular shaped beam that extends away from the rest of the holder housing  328 . Further, in this embodiment, the pivot contact  350 B is long (along the Y axis), very thin (along the X axis), rectangular shaped tab that extends upward from the pivot body  350 A. In this embodiment, the pivot contact  350 B is the highest point of the holder  324  and the only area of the holder  324  that contacts the device  22 . 
     As a non-exclusive embodiment, the pivot contact  350 B can have a thickness (along the X axis) that is between approximately 50 microns and 500 microns. This leads to a normal line contact between the pivot contact  350 B and the device  22  instead of a planar contact. 
     In one non-exclusive embodiment, the entire holder housing  328  is made as a monolithic structure. Alternatively, each pivot section  330 A can be a separate structure that is attached to the rest of the holder housing  328 . Still alternatively, each pivot contact  350 B can be made of a different material than the pivot body  350 A. These designs may allow for the fine tuning of the flexing characteristics of each pivot section  330 A. 
     The size, shape and design of each sub-region  332 A,  332 B,  334 A,  334 B can vary. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3E and 3F , each sub-region  332 A,  332 B,  334 A,  334 B is generally rectangular shaped and includes a region lip  352 A, a region channel  352 B and a region damping area  352 C. 
     The region seal  352 A defines the boundary of each sub-region  332 A,  332 B,  334 A,  334 B. In one embodiment, the region seal  352 A is a generally rectangular lip that extends around the perimeter of the respective sub-region  332 A,  332 B,  334 A,  334 B. Further, the device  22  is maintained a relatively small gap away from the region seal  352 A with the pivot  330 . However, the region seal  352 A is close enough to the device  22  to limit the flow of fluid to allow for the control of the pressure in the respective sub-region. As a non-exclusive embodiment, the region seal  352 A is maintained a gap that is between approximately 0.5 and 5 microns away from the device  22 . 
     The region channel  352 B provides an area to control the pressure in the respective sub-region. In one embodiment, the region channel  352 B is a generally rectangular shaped channel in the holder  324 . 
     The region damping area  352 C is a raised area that is also relatively close to and spaced apart from the device  22  when the device  22  is positioned on the holder  324 . In one non-exclusive embodiment, the region damping area  352 C can be spaced apart a gap that is between approximately 0.5 and 20 micrometers from the device  22 . However, other distances can be utilized. With this design, the region damping area  352 C can provide passive, squeeze film type damping of the device  22  to reduce vibration in the device  22 . In one embodiment, the region damping region  352 C is a generally rectangular shaped. 
       FIG. 4  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device  22  and another embodiment of the device holder  420  including the first holder  424 A, the second holder  424 B, and the pressure source  426 . In this embodiment, (i) the first holder  424 A includes the first pivot  430 A, the first distal region  432 A, and the first proximal region  434 A; and (ii) the second holder  424 B includes the second pivot  430 B, the second distal region  432 B, and the second proximal region  434 B that are somewhat similar to the corresponding components described above and illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
     However, in this embodiment, (i) the first distal region  432 A is smaller than the first proximal region  434 A; and (ii) the second distal region  432 B is smaller than the second proximal region  434 B. 
     In  FIG. 4 , (i) the first distal region  432 A can include one or more pressure controlled first distal zones  436 A (only one is illustrated); (ii) the first proximal region  434 A can include one or more pressure controlled first proximal zones  438 A (only one is illustrated); (iii) the second distal region  432 B can include one or more pressure controlled second distal zones  436 B (only one is illustrated); and (iv) the second proximal region  434 B can include one or more pressure controlled second proximal zones  438 B (only one is illustrated). 
     Further, in one embodiment, the pressure source  426  individually controls (i) a distal pressure in each distal zone  436 A,  436 B to be a positive pressure (greater than the environmental pressure), and (ii) a proximal pressure in each proximal zone  438 A,  438 B to be a negative pressure (below the environmental pressure). 
     In one embodiment, (i) the positive pressure in the first distal zone  436 A will create a first distal force  440 A (illustrated as an arrow) upward, and a clockwise, first distal moment  444 A on the device  22 ; (ii) the negative pressure in the first proximal zone  438 A will create a first proximal force  442 A (illustrated as an arrow) downward, and a clockwise first proximal moment  446 A on the device  22 ; (iii) the positive pressure in the second distal zone  436 B will create a second distal force  440 B (illustrated as an arrow) upward, and a counterclockwise, second distal moment  444 B on the device  22 ; and (iv) the negative pressure in the second proximal zone  438 B will create a second proximal force  442 B (illustrated as an arrow) downward, and a counterclockwise second proximal moment  446 B on the device  22 . 
     Thus, in this embodiment, (i) the first distal moment  444 A is in the same direction as the first proximal moment  446 A, and (ii) the second distal moment  444 B is in the same direction as the second proximal moment  446 B. 
     Further, the size of each region  432 A,  434 A,  432 B,  434 B can be varied and selected to provide the desired range of possible forces  440 A,  440 B,  442 A,  442 B and moments  444 A,  444 B,  446 A,  446 C. Further, the pressure at each zone  436 A,  436 B,  438 A,  438 B can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  440 A,  440 B,  442 A,  442 B and each moments  444 A,  444 B,  446 A,  446 C to achieve the desired holding force and bending moments imparted on the device  22 . 
       FIG. 5  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device  22  and yet another embodiment of the device holder  520  including the first holder  524 A, the second holder  524 B, and the pressure source  526 . In this embodiment, (i) the first holder  524 A includes the first pivot  530 A, the first distal region  532 A, and the first proximal region  534 A; and (ii) the second holder  524 B includes the second pivot  530 B, the second distal region  532 B, and the second proximal region  534 B that are somewhat similar to the corresponding components described above and illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
     However, in this embodiment, (i) first pivot  530 A is positioned in between the first distal region  532 A and the first proximal region  534 A; and (ii) the second pivot  530 B is positioned between the second distal region  532 B and the second proximal region  534 B. 
       FIG. 6A  is a simplified cut-away view of a portion of the device  22 , and a portion of another embodiment of a device holder  620  in an unlocked position  660  and  FIG. 6B  illustrates the portion of the device holder  620  in a locked position  662 . In this embodiment, the device holder  620  includes a pair of spaced apart holders  624  (only one is illustrated but both can be similar), and the pressure source  626 . In this embodiment, each holder  624  includes the pivot  630 , the distal region  632 , and the proximal region  634  that are similar to the corresponding components described above. Further, the pressure source  626  controls (i) a distal pressure in the distal region  632  to create one or more pressure controlled, distal zones  636  (only one is visible); and (ii) a proximal pressure in the proximal region  634  to create one or more pressure controlled proximal zones  638  (only one is visible). 
     However, in this embodiment, the holder  624  additionally includes an upper chuck  664  that is movable relative to the rest of the holder housing  628  between the unlocked position  660  and the locked position  662 , and selectively locked in each position  660 ,  662 . When the upper chuck  664  is in the locked position  662 , the pressure source  626  can control the pressure between the upper chuck  664  and the top  22 D of the device  22  to create one or more pressure controlled upper zones  666  (only one is illustrated in  FIG. 6B ). In one embodiment, the pressure source  626  can control the pressure in the upper zone  666  to be a positive pressure. This will create an upper force  668  (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  22  that increases the holding force of the device holder  620  and increases the moments. 
       FIG. 7  is a top view of another embodiment of a holder  724  that includes a pivot  730 , a distal region  732 , and a proximal region  734  that are similar to the corresponding components described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-3F . However, in this embodiment, the distal region  732  is not divided into sub-regions. Thus, there is only one pressure controlled distal zone. 
     Further, in the embodiment, the pivot  730  is divided into three, substantially equally sized pivot sections  730 A,  730 B,  730 C, and the proximal region  734  is divided into three, substantially equally sized proximal sub-regions  734 A,  734 B,  734 C. Thus, there will be three separate pressure controlled proximal zones. 
       FIG. 8  is a simplified perspective view of another embodiment of a pivot  830  having features of the present invention. In this embodiment, the pivot  830  includes a pivot body  850 A that is somewhat similar to the corresponding component described above, and a pivot contact  850 B that is slightly different. More specifically, in this embodiment, the pivot contact  850 B includes a plurality of spaced apart cylindrical protrusions (e.g. one-dimensional array of pins) that contact the device  22  (illustrated in  FIG. 1 ). 
       FIG. 9  is a simplified perspective view of yet another embodiment of a pivot  930  having features of the present invention. In this embodiment, the pivot  930  includes a pivot body  950 A that is somewhat similar to the corresponding component described above, and a pivot contact  950 B that is slightly different. More specifically, in this embodiment, the pivot contact  950 B defines a blunted knife edge that contacts the device  22  (illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) and has a substantially trapezoidal shaped cross-section. 
       FIG. 10A  is a simplified partially cut away view of a device  1022 , a pressure source  1026 , and another embodiment of a holder  1024  that can be used as either the first holder or the second holder. In this embodiment, the holder  1024  includes a lower, first holder housing  1028 , a flexible pivot assembly  1030 , and an upper, second holder housing  1031 . The design of each of these components can be varied pursuant to the teachings provided herein. 
       FIGS. 10B and 10C  are alternative, simplified cut away views from  FIG. 10A  that illustrate the device  1022 , and the lower, holder housing  1028 , the flexible pivot assembly  1030 , and the upper, second holder housing  1031  of the holder  1024 . In this embodiment, the first holder housing  1028  includes a housing body  1028 A that defines one or more adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D, and a pair of spaced apart support areas  1028 E which are positioned below the pivot assembly  1030 . The number, and design, size and shape of adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D can be varied to achieve the desired control over the shape of the pivot assembly  1030  and the device  1022 . In one embodiment, the first holder housing  1028  includes three spaced apart and separate adjustment regions, namely a front, first adjustment region  1028 B, a middle, second adjustment region  1028 C, and a rear, third adjustment region  1028 D. In this embodiment, the front, first adjustment region  1028 B and the rear, third adjustment region  1028 D are substantially equally sized, and the middle, second adjustment region  1028 C is larger than the other two adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 D. Alternatively, for example, the design can include more than three or fewer than three adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D. 
     In one embodiment, each adjustment region  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D is a depression in the housing body  1028 A; and the support areas  1028 E are a raised area that surrounds the adjustment regions  1028 C,  1028 D,  1028 E. Further, the support areas  1028 E can support a perimeter of the pivot assembly  1030 , while allowing a portion of the pivot assembly  1030  to move and flex relative to the holder housings  1028 ,  1031 . 
     With the present design, the pressure source  1026  (illustrated in  FIG. 10A ) can independently control the pressure at each of these adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D to control the shape of the pivot assembly  1030 . More specifically, in one embodiment, the pressure source  1026  controls (i) a first pressure between the pivot assembly  1030  and the first adjustment region  1028 B to create a pressure controlled, first adjustment zone  1033 A, (ii) a second pressure between the pivot assembly  1030  and the second adjustment region  1028 C to create a pressure controlled, second adjustment zone  1033 B, and (i) a third pressure between the pivot assembly  1030  and the third adjustment region  1028 C to create a pressure controlled, third adjustment zone  1033 C. 
     As provided herein, the pressure source  1026  can individually control the pressure in each of the zones  1033 A,  1033 B,  1033 C to be below the environmental pressure (“negative pressure”) or above the environmental pressure (“positive pressure”) as required to achieve the desired shaped of the pivot assembly  1030  and the desired shape of the device  1022 . 
     As illustrated in the non-exclusive embodiment of  FIG. 10C , (i) a positive pressure in the first adjustment zone  1033 A will create a first adjustment force  1035 A upward on the pivot assembly  1030 , (ii) a negative pressure in the second adjustment zone  1033 B will create a second adjustment force  1035 B downward on the pivot assembly  1030 , and (i) a positive pressure in the third adjustment zone  1033 C will create a third adjustment force  1035 C upward on the pivot assembly  1030 . With this design, the pressure source  1026  can be used to accurately bend the pivot assembly  1030  and the device  1022  in a concave fashion about the X axis. 
     Alternatively, as illustrated in  FIG. 10D , (i) a negative pressure in the first adjustment zone  1033 A will create a first adjustment force  1035 A downward on the pivot assembly  1030 , (ii) a positive pressure in the second adjustment zone  1033 B will create a second adjustment force  1035 B upward on the pivot assembly  1030 , and (i) a negative pressure in the third adjustment zone  1033 C will create a third adjustment force  1035 C downward on the pivot assembly  1030 . With this design, the pressure source  1025  can be used to accurately bend the pivot assembly  1030  and the device  1022  in a convex fashion about the X axis. 
     It should be noted that the pressures in each of the adjustment zones  1033 A,  1033 B,  1033 C can be individually adjusted to achieve the desired shape of the pivot assembly  1030  and the device  1022 . 
     It should also be noted that although each adjustment force  1035 A,  1035 B,  1035 C is illustrated as a single arrow centered in its respective zone  1033 A,  1033 B,  1033 C, in reality, each force  1035 A,  1035 B,  1035 C is actually distributed along the area of its respective zone  1033 A,  1033 B,  1033 C. Should also note that negative pressure can be used in zones  1033 A,  1033 B,  1033 C to achieve desired shape of the pivot assembly  1030 . 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 10B and 10C , the pivot assembly  1030  is flexible and includes a flexible, generally flat (when not flexed) pivot base  1030 A, and a flexible pivot  1030 B that extends upward away from the pivot base  1030 A. In this embodiment, the pivot  1030 B again provides an area of approximate line contact along the Y axis with the device  1022 . In certain embodiments, the pivot  1030 B is a generally rectangular shaped beam that extends almost the entire length of the device  1022  along the Y axis. Alternatively, the pivot  1030 B can extend only a portion of the length of the device  1022  or the pivot  1030 B can be divided into multiple pivot sections. With this design, flexure of the pivot base  1030 A upward moves that portion of the pivot  1030 B upward and flexure of the pivot base  1030 A downward moves that portion of the pivot  1030 B downward. 
     With this design, the pivot  1030 B (e.g. a blade) can conform easily to device  1022  to reduce unwanted distortion from flatness errors of the holder  1024  or device  1022  or particles between the pivot  1030 B and the device  1022 . In other words, the holder  1024  holds the device  1022  in a more kinematic manner. As nonexclusive examples, the pivot assembly  1030  can be made of ceramics or glass that allow for a few microns of flexing. 
     The second holder housing  1031  includes a housing body  1031 A that defines a distal region  1032 ; a proximal region  1034 , and a pass-thru  1031 B that receives the pivot  1030 B and allows the pivot to extend through the second holder housing  1031 . In this embodiment, the second holder housing  1031  rests on the pivot base  1030 A above the support rim  1028 E and the second holder housing  1031  is shaped to allow for motion of a portion of the pivot base  1030 A and the pivot  1030 B relative to the second holder housing  1031 . 
     In one embodiment, the pressure source  1026  controls (i) a distal pressure in the distal region  1032  to create a pressure controlled, first distal zone  1036  between the device  1022  and the second holder housing  1031 ; and (ii) a proximal pressure in the proximal region  1034  to create a pressure controlled proximal zone  1038  between the device  1022  and the second holder housing  1031 . As provided herein, the pressure source  1026  can individually control the pressure in each of the zones  1036 ,  1038  to be below the environmental pressure or above the environmental pressure as required to achieve the desired shaped of the device  1022 . 
     With this embodiment, (i) a negative pressure in the distal zone  1036  will create a distal force  1040  (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  1022 ; and (ii) a negative force in the proximal zone  1038  will create a proximal force  1042  (illustrated as an arrow) downward on the device  1022 . With this design, the forces  1040 ,  1042  will pull/urge the device  1022  against the pivot  1030 B. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 10B , the proximal force  1042  and the bulk of the distal force  1040  are positioned on opposite sides of the pivot  1030 A. With this design the pressure in the zone  1036 ,  1038  can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  1040 ,  1042  to adjust the holding force of the device holder  1020 . 
     Moreover, the pressure in each zone  1036 ,  1038  can be individually adjusted to individually adjust each force  1040 ,  1042 , and individually adjust each moment that is applied to the device  1022  to control the bending of the device about the Y axis, and ultimately control the shape of the device  1022 . 
     With the present design, the device holder  1020  can have a relatively large bending range (e.g. +/−1 um as a non-exclusive example) and a relatively large holding force with only line contact at the pivot  1030 B. Further, in certain embodiments, control of the bending about the X axis is independent of the control of the bending about the Y axis. Stated in another fashion, the first bending stroke is achieved by vacuum pressures acting on the device  1022 , and the second bending stroke is achieved by vacuum pressures acting on the device  1022  through the pivot  1030 B. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 10A-10D , the holder  1024  can have a relatively large second bending stroke. 
       FIG. 10E  is a more detailed, perspective view, and  FIG. 10F  is an exploded perspective view of the holder  1024  of  FIG. 10A  including the first holder housing  1028 , the pivot assembly  1030 , and the second holder housing  1031 . It should be noted that (i) the housing body  1028 A, (ii) the  1028 B adjustment regions  1028 B,  1028 C,  1028 D, (iii) the support rim  1028 E, (iv) the pivot base  1030 A, (v) the pivot  1030 B, (vi) the housing body  1031 A, (vii) the pass-thru  1031 B, (viii) the distal region  1032 , (ix) the proximal region  1034  are referenced in  FIG. 10E  and/or  FIG. 10F . 
       FIG. 11  is a schematic view illustrating an exposure apparatus  1130  useful with the present invention. The exposure apparatus  1130  includes the apparatus frame  1180 , an illumination system  1182  (irradiation apparatus), a reticle stage assembly  1110 , an optical assembly  1186  (lens assembly), and a wafer stage assembly  1184 . The device holders provided herein can be used in the reticle stage assembly  1110  and/or the wafer stage assembly  1184 . 
     The exposure apparatus  1130  is particularly useful as a lithographic device that transfers a pattern (not shown) of an integrated circuit from the reticle  1188  onto the semiconductor wafer  1190 . The exposure apparatus  1130  mounts to the mounting base  1124 , e.g., the ground, a base, or floor or some other supporting structure. 
     The apparatus frame  1180  is rigid and supports the components of the exposure apparatus  1130 . The design of the apparatus frame  1180  can be varied to suit the design requirements for the rest of the exposure apparatus  1130 . 
     The illumination system  1182  includes an illumination source  1192  and an illumination optical assembly  1194 . The illumination source  1192  emits a beam (irradiation) of light energy. The illumination optical assembly  1194  guides the beam of light energy from the illumination source  1192  to the optical assembly  1186 . The beam illuminates selectively different portions of the reticle  1088  and exposes the semiconductor wafer  1190 . In  FIG. 11 , the illumination source  1192  is illustrated as being supported above the reticle stage assembly  1184 . Alternatively, the illumination source  1192  can be secured to one of the sides of the apparatus frame  1180  and the energy beam from the illumination source  1192  is directed to above the reticle stage assembly  1184  with the illumination optical assembly  1194 . 
     The optical assembly  1186  projects and/or focuses the light passing through the reticle to the wafer. Depending upon the design of the exposure apparatus  1130 , the optical assembly  1186  can magnify or reduce the image illuminated on the reticle. 
     There are a number of different types of lithographic devices. For example, the exposure apparatus  1130  can be used as scanning type photolithography system that exposes the pattern from the reticle  1188  onto the wafer  1190  with the reticle  1188  and the wafer  1190  moving synchronously. Alternatively, the exposure apparatus  1130  can be a step-and-repeat type photolithography system that exposes the reticle  1188  while the reticle  1188  and the wafer  1190  are stationary. 
     However, the use of the exposure apparatus  1130  and the stage assemblies provided herein are not limited to a photolithography system for semiconductor manufacturing. The exposure apparatus  1130 , for example, can be used as an LCD photolithography system that exposes a liquid crystal display device pattern onto a rectangular glass plate or a photolithography system for manufacturing a thin film magnetic head. Further, the present invention can also be applied to a proximity photolithography system that exposes a mask pattern by closely locating a mask and a substrate without the use of a lens assembly. Additionally, the present invention provided herein can be used in other devices, including other semiconductor processing equipment, elevators, machine tools, metal cutting machines, inspection machines and disk drives. 
     As described above, a photolithography system according to the above described embodiments can be built by assembling various subsystems, including each element listed in the appended claims, in such a manner that prescribed mechanical accuracy, electrical accuracy, and optical accuracy are maintained. In order to maintain the various accuracies, prior to and following assembly, every optical system is adjusted to achieve its optical accuracy. Similarly, every mechanical system and every electrical system are adjusted to achieve their respective mechanical and electrical accuracies. The process of assembling each subsystem into a photolithography system includes mechanical interfaces, electrical circuit wiring connections and air pressure plumbing connections between each subsystem. Needless to say, there is also a process where each subsystem is assembled prior to assembling a photolithography system from the various subsystems. Once a photolithography system is assembled using the various subsystems, a total adjustment is performed to make sure that accuracy is maintained in the complete photolithography system. Additionally, it is desirable to manufacture an exposure system in a clean room where the temperature and cleanliness are controlled. 
     Further, semiconductor devices can be fabricated using the above described systems, by the process shown generally in  FIG. 12A . In step  1201  the device&#39;s function and performance characteristics are designed. Next, in step  1202 , a mask (reticle) having a pattern is designed according to the previous designing step, and in a parallel step  1203  a wafer is made from a silicon material. The mask pattern designed in step  1202  is exposed onto the wafer from step  1203  in step  1204  by a photolithography system described hereinabove in accordance with the present invention. In step  1205  the semiconductor device is assembled (including the dicing process, bonding process and packaging process), finally, the device is then inspected in step  1206 . 
       FIG. 12B  illustrates a detailed flowchart example of the above-mentioned step  1204  in the case of fabricating semiconductor devices. In  FIG. 12B , in step  1211  (oxidation step), the wafer surface is oxidized. In step  1212  (CVD step), an insulation film is formed on the wafer surface. In step  1213  (electrode formation step), electrodes are formed on the wafer by vapor deposition. In step  1214  (ion implantation step), ions are implanted in the wafer. The above mentioned steps  1211 - 1214  form the preprocessing steps for wafers during wafer processing, and selection is made at each step according to processing requirements. 
     At each stage of wafer processing, when the above-mentioned preprocessing steps have been completed, the following post-processing steps are implemented. During post-processing, first, in step  1215  (photoresist formation step), photoresist is applied to a wafer. Next, in step  1216  (exposure step), the above-mentioned exposure device is used to transfer the circuit pattern of a mask (reticle) to a wafer. Then in step  1217  (developing step), the exposed wafer is developed, and in step  1218  (etching step), parts other than residual photoresist (exposed material surface) are removed by etching. In step  1219  (photoresist removal step), unnecessary photoresist remaining after etching is removed. 
     Multiple circuit patterns are formed by repetition of these preprocessing and post-processing steps. 
     While the particular stage assembly as shown and disclosed herein is fully capable of obtaining the objects and providing the advantages herein before stated, it is to be understood that it is merely illustrative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and that no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown other than as described in the appended claims.