Patent ID: 7774736

Claim:
A computer-implemented method of generating an interference map for optimal positioning of optical proximity correction features in the design of a mask used in an imaging system, said method comprising the steps of: obtaining a desired target pattern in the mask having target pattern features to be imaged on a substrate; generating a reduced size target pattern by reducing the size of the target pattern features without changing the pitches therebetween, such that the size of at least one of the target pattern features is less than the resolution capability of an image system to be utilized to image the mask; adjusting optical transmission of a dark field area of the reduced size target pattern to be greater than zero but greatly less than optical transmission of a bright field area; and performing, using the computer, an optical simulation of the reduced size target pattern to generate the interference map based on the desired target pattern, said interference map defining areas of constructive interference and areas of destructive interference between at least one of target pattern features to be imaged and a field area adjacent said at least one target pattern feature, wherein optical proximity correction features which enhance the printing of the target pattern feature to be imaged are disposed in constructive areas of interferences, and optical proximity correction features which negate destructive interference are disposed in destructive areas of interference.