System for using a two part cover for protecting a reticle
US7304720B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 20, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 20, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S414/135
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system and method are used to protect a mask from being contaminated by airborne particles. They include coupling a reticle and a cover to protect the reticle. The cover includes a frame and a movable panel that moves to allow direct access of light to the reticle during an exposure process. The reticle and cover are moved to a stage using a robot gripper. The reticle and cover may be coupled to a baseplate before being moved. Corresponding alignment devices are coupled to the frame and the panel, the gripper and the panel, and the baseplate and the panel. The stage and the frame can have corresponding attachment devices. A pre-alignment device can be used to align the reticle before transporting it to a stage. The pre-alignment device and the frame can have corresponding alignment devices that can be used to perform the pre-alignment. Predetermined areas of the reticle can be hardened or shaped, such that less particles are produced during contact with the reticle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.