Method and apparatus for fluid handling in immersion...

Optical: systems and elements – Protection from moisture or foreign particle – Fluid directed across optical element

Reexamination Certificate

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C359S507000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07128427

ABSTRACT:
Apparatus and method for a substantially distortion free immersion lithography is provided. The apparatus includes a lens element, an outlet for drawing immersion fluid towards the lens element, and a collector ring coupled to the central outlet for removing the immersion fluid. The method includes positioning a lens element relative to a wafer to provide a space between the lens element and wafer, introducing immersion fluid to that space, and drawing the immersion fluid from that space to minimize gas bubbles in the immersion fluid, and repeating the introducing and drawing steps to maintain the flow of the immersion fluid during a lithography process.

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