Methods for improved monitor and control of lithography processes

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 9188974
SERIAL NO

13184565

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Abstract

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Various computer-implemented methods are provided. One method includes determining errors across a field of a lens of a lithography system based on wafer measurements. In addition, the method includes separating the errors into correctable and non-correctable errors across the field. The errors may include dose errors, focus errors, or dose and focus errors. In another embodiment, the method may include determining correction terms for parameter(s) of the lithography system, which if applied to the parameter(s), the correctable errors would be eliminated resulting in approximately optimal imaging performance of the lithography system. Another method includes controlling one or more parameters of features within substantially an entire printed area on a product wafer using a limited number of wafer measurements performed on a test wafer. The wafer measurements may be performed on a first feature type, and the features that are controlled may include a second, different feature type.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
KLA-TENCOR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONONE TECHNOLOGY DRIVE MILPITAS CA 95035

International Classification(s)

Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Mack, Chris Austin, US 29 350
Preil, Moshe E Sunnyvale, US 25 1121

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