Systems and methods for immersion metrology

Optics: measuring and testing – Dimension – Thickness

Reexamination Certificate

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C356S635000, C356S124000

Reexamination Certificate

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07436527

ABSTRACT:
Fluid immersion technology can be utilized to increase the resolution and angular range of existing metrology systems. An immersion fluid placed between the metrology optics and the sample can reduce the refraction at the sample interface, thereby decreasing the spot size of the beam on a feature of the sample while simultaneously increasing the angular range of the system. The decreased spot size, in combination with an increased angular spread, allows an existing metrology system to measure parameters of a sample, such as a semiconductor or microelectronic device, with improved resolution and without expensive and/or complex changes to the mechanics of the metrology system.

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