Patent · US Active

Methods for etching layers within a MEMS device to achieve a tapered edge

US7660058B2 · kind B2 · utility

16Cited by
110References
19Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateAug 18, 2006
Grant dateFeb 9, 2010
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 25, 2028

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10S359/90
  • WIPO fieldMicro-structural and nano-technology
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

Certain MEMS devices include layers patterned to have tapered edges. One method for forming layers having tapered edges includes the use of an etch leading layer. Another method for forming layers having tapered edges includes the deposition of a layer in which the upper portion is etchable at a faster rate than the lower portion. Another method for forming layers having tapered edges includes the use of multiple iterative etches. Another method for forming layers having tapered edges includes the use of a liftoff mask layer having an aperture including a negative angle, such that a layer can be deposited over the liftoff mask layer and the mask layer removed, leaving a structure having tapered edges.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.