Containers for radioactive sources

Abstract

A container (16) for an EUV radiation source, comprising: a first opening (30) for accessing an interior (32) of the container; a first access member (34) configured to enable or disable access to the interior of the container through the first opening; a second opening (36) disposed in the first access member for accessing the interior of the container; and a second access member (38) disposed in the first access member and configured to enable or disable access to the interior of the container through the second opening.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 62 / 948,911, filed December 17, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] The present invention relates to enclosures for radiation sources, such as extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation sources, and related devices, systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0003] A lithographic apparatus is a machine constructed to apply a desired pattern onto a substrate. Lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits (ICs). A lithographic apparatus can, for example, project a pattern in a patterning device (e.g. mask) onto a layer of radiation-sensitive material (resist) provided on the substrate.

[0004]

[0004] To project a pattern onto a substrate, a lithographic apparatus may use electromagnetic radiation. The wavelength of this radiation determines the minimum size of features that can be formed on the substrate. Lithographic apparatus using extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation having a wavelength in the range of 4-20 nm, e.g. 6.7 nm or 13.5 nm, may be used to form smaller features on a substrate than lithographic apparatus using radiation having a wavelength of, e.g., 193 nm.

[0005]

[0005] The lithographic apparatus may be part of a lithography system that may also comprise a radiation source. The EUV radiation may be generated using a plasma. The plasma may be generated, for example, by directing a laser beam at a fuel in the radiation source. The resulting plasma may emit the EUV radiation. Part of the fuel may become fuel debris, which may accumulate on one or more components of the radiation source.

[0006]

[0006] Although the radiation source may be equipped with a debris mitigation system that may be configured to reduce the accumulation of fuel debris on components of the radiation source, some components of the radiation source may still require replacement, for example due to the accumulation of fuel debris. Additionally or alternatively, some components of the radiation source may become defective and, as a result, require replacement.

[0007]

[0007] Such components are located inside the radiation source and may be difficult to access. Their replacement may therefore be very time consuming and require many steps and / or special tools. Any steps required to replace these components may carry a risk of damage to one or more components or parts of the radiation source and / or the tools used. Replacement of these components may result in significant downtime of the lithographic apparatus and / or high service or maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention

[0008]

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container for a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source, comprising a first opening for accessing an interior of the container, a first access member configured to enable or disable access to the interior of the container via the first opening, a second opening disposed on the first access member for accessing the interior of the container, and a second access member disposed on the first access member and configured to enable or disable access to the interior of the container via the second opening.

[0009]

[0009] Arranging the second access member over the first access member may allow for a compact arrangement of the container, e.g., the first and second access members. Additionally or alternatively, arranging the second access member over the first access member may facilitate access to the interior of the container and / or allow for an increased size or dimension of the first opening, as compared to, e.g., an arrangement in which the second access member is spaced apart from the first access member.

[0010]

[0010] The arrangement of the first access member and the second access member may allow unobstructed access to the interior of the container. This may improve access to the interior of the container. The improved access to the interior of the container may reduce the number of steps that may be required to replace one or more components of the radiation source. For example, removal of a component or part that may be located adjacent to or in front of the container may not be necessary. Additionally or alternatively, for example, movement of the container may not be necessary to access the interior of the container. This may reduce the time and / or personnel required to replace one or more components of the radiation source.

[0011]

[0011] The first opening may be configured to allow access to a first component of the radiation source. The first opening may be configured to allow access to a second component of the radiation source. The first opening may be configured to allow passage of the first and / or second components of the radiation source through the first opening.

[0012]

[0012] The second opening may be configured to allow access to a second component of the radiation source. The second opening may be configured to allow passage of the second component of the radiation source through the second opening.

[0013]

[0013] The container may be operable between at least two of a closed configuration, a first open configuration, and a second open configuration.

[0014]

[0014] In a closed configuration of the container, the first and second access members may be configured to disable access to the interior of the container. In a first open configuration of the container, the first access member may be configured to allow access to the interior of the container through the first opening. In a second open configuration of the container, the second access member may be configured to allow access to the interior of the container through the second opening.

[0015]

[0015] The enclosure may comprise a mounting for mounting one or more metrology modules or inspection devices to the enclosure. The mounting may be part of or included in the first access member. Thus, removal of one or more metrology modules or inspection devices, for example to access the second component of the radiation source, may not be necessary. This may reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace the second component of the radiation source. It has been found that a reduction in steps may also reduce the risk of damage to one or more components of the radiation source, the enclosure, and / or tools used to replace the second component of the radiation source.

[0016]

[0016] The mounting portion may be configured to mount one or more metrology modules or inspection devices relative to a reference point inside the vessel.

[0017]

[0017] The second access member may be located away from the mounting portion. The second access member may be located below the mounting portion.

[0018]

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container for a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source, comprising an opening for accessing an interior of the container and an access member configured to enable or disable access to the interior of the container through the opening, the access member comprising an attachment portion for attaching one or more metrology modules or inspection devices to the container.

[0019]

[0019] The container may be operable between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0020]

[0020] In a closed configuration of the container, the access member may be configured to disable access to an interior of the container. In an open configuration of the container, the access member may be configured to allow access to the interior of the container via the opening.

[0021]

[0021] The container of the second aspect may have any of the features of the container of the first aspect.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source, comprising a container according to the first and / or second aspect.

[0023]

[0023] The radiation source may comprise a debris mitigation system. The debris mitigation system may be configured in a modular manner.

[0024]

[0024] The radiation source may comprise a first component. The first component of the radiation source may comprise at least part or the whole of a debris mitigation system of the radiation source.

[0025]

[0025] The radiation source may comprise a second component. The second component of the radiation source may comprise at least one of a collector mirror for collecting radiation emitted in the plasma formation region of the radiation source and a fuel collector for collecting fuel debris generated in the plasma formation region of the radiation source.

[0026] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a lithographic system comprising a radiation source and a lithographic apparatus according to the third aspect.

[0027]

[0027] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for replacing at least a first component of a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source having a container according to the first aspect, the method comprising manipulating a first access member to allow access to the interior of the container through a first opening, removing at least the first component to be replaced, installing at least another first component to be used, and manipulating the first access member to disable access to the interior of the container through the first opening.

[0028]

[0028] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for replacing a second component of a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source having a container according to the first aspect, the method comprising manipulating a second access member to allow access to the inside of the container through a second opening, removing the second component to be replaced, installing another second component to be used, and manipulating the second access member to disable access to the inside of the container through the second opening.

[0029]

[0029] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for replacing a first component and / or a second component of a radiation source, such as an EUV radiation source having a container according to the second aspect, comprising manipulating an access member to allow access to the inside of the container through an opening, removing the first component and / or second component to be replaced, installing another first component and / or second component to be used, and manipulating the access member to disable access to the inside of the container through the opening.

[0030]

[0030] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the various aspects and features of the invention described above or below may be combined with various other aspects and features of the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031]

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 depicts a lithography system comprising a lithographic apparatus and a radiation source. [Diagram 2] 2 shows the radiation source of FIG. 1 in more detail; [Figure 3A] 3 illustrates an exemplary container for use with the radiation source of FIGS. 1-2; [Figure 3B] 3 illustrates an exemplary container for use with the radiation source of FIGS. 1-2; [Figure 3C] 3 illustrates an exemplary container for use with the radiation source of FIGS. 1-2; [Figure 4] 3A to 3C equipped with a cooling device. [Figure 5A] 3 illustrates another exemplary container for use with the radiation source of FIGS. 1-2; [Figure 5B] 3 illustrates another exemplary container for use with the radiation source of FIGS. 1-2; [Figure 6] 1 shows a flow chart outlining the steps of a method for replacing at least a first component of a radiation source. [Figure 7] 1 shows a flow chart outlining the steps of a method for replacing a second component of a radiation source. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] 1 shows a lithography system comprising a radiation source SO and a lithographic apparatus LA. The source SO is configured to generate a beam of EUV radiation B and to provide the EUV radiation beam B to the lithographic apparatus LA. The lithographic apparatus LA comprises an illumination system IL, a support structure MT configured to support a patterning device MA (e.g. a mask), a projection system PS, and a substrate table WT configured to support a substrate W.

[0034]

[0033] The illumination system IL is configured to condition the EUV radiation beam B before it is incident on the patterning device MA. In addition, the illumination system IL may comprise a facetted field mirror device 10 and a facetted pupil mirror device 11. The facetted field mirror device 10 and the facetted pupil mirror device 11 together impart a desired cross-sectional shape and a desired intensity distribution to the EUV radiation beam B. The illumination system IL may comprise other mirrors or devices in addition to or instead of the facetted field mirror device 10 and the facetted pupil mirror device 11.

[0035]

[0034] After being so conditioned, the EUV radiation beam B interacts with the patterning device MA. This interaction results in a patterned EUV radiation beam B'. The projection system PS is configured to project the patterned EUV radiation beam B' onto the substrate W. To that end, the projection system PS may comprise a number of mirrors 13, 14 configured to project the patterned EUV radiation beam B' onto the substrate W held by a substrate table WT. The projection system PS may apply a demagnification factor to the patterned EUV radiation beam B' to form an image having smaller features than corresponding features on the patterning device MA. For example, a demagnification factor of 4 or 8 may be applied. Although the projection system PS is shown in Figure 1 as having only two mirrors 13, 14, the projection system PS may comprise a different number of mirrors (for example 6 or 8 mirrors).

[0036]

[0035] The substrate W may include a pre-formed pattern. In such a case, the lithographic apparatus LA aligns the image formed by the patterned EUV radiation beam B' with the previously formed pattern on the substrate W.

[0037] A relative vacuum, ie a small amount of gas (eg hydrogen) at a pressure well below atmospheric pressure, may be provided in the source SO, in the illumination system IL and / or in the projection system PS.

[0038]

[0037] The radiation source SO shown in Fig. 1 is of a type that may be referred to as, for example, a laser-produced plasma (LPP) source. A laser system 1, which may include, for example, a CO2 laser, is arranged to deposit energy via a laser beam 2 in a fuel, such as, for example, tin (Sn), provided from a fuel emitter 3. Although the following description refers to tin, any suitable fuel may be used. The fuel may be, for example, in the form of a liquid and may be, for example, a metal or an alloy. The fuel emitter 3 may comprise a nozzle configured to direct the tin, for example in the form of droplets, along a trajectory towards a plasma formation region 4. The laser beam 2 is incident on the tin in the plasma formation region 4. The deposition of the laser energy in the tin creates a tin plasma 7 in the plasma formation region 4. Radiation, including EUV radiation, is emitted from the plasma 7 during de-excitation of electrons and recombination with the plasma ions.

[0039]

[0038] The EUV radiation from the plasma is collected and focused by a collector 5. The collector 5 may include, for example, a near-normal incidence radiation collector 5 (which may be more commonly referred to as a normal incidence radiation collector). The collector 5 may have a multi-layer mirror structure arranged to reflect EUV radiation (e.g., EUV radiation having a desired wavelength, such as 13.5 nm). The collector 5 may have an elliptical configuration with two foci. A first one of the foci may be at the plasma formation region 4 and a second one of the foci may be at an intermediate focus 6, as discussed below.

[0040]

[0039] The laser system 1 may be spatially separated from the radiation source SO. In such a case, the laser beam 2 may be passed from the laser system 1 to the radiation source SO with the aid of a beam delivery system (not shown) comprising, for example, suitable directing mirrors and / or beam expanders and / or other optics. The laser system 1, the radiation source SO and the beam delivery system may collectively be considered as a radiation system.

[0041]

[0040] The radiation reflected from the collector 5 forms an EUV radiation beam B. The EUV radiation beam B is focused to an intermediate focus 6 in order to form an image therein of the plasma present in the plasma formation region 4. The image at the intermediate focus 6 acts as a virtual radiation source for the illumination system IL. The radiation source SO is positioned such that the intermediate focus 6 is located at or near an aperture 8 in a closing structure 9 of the radiation source SO.

[0042]

[0041] Figure 2 shows the radiation source of Figure 1 in more detail. The radiation source SO may comprise a container 16. The closure structure 9 shown in Figure 1 may be defined by or included in the container 16. The term "container" may be considered to encompass a vacuum container, a pressure container, a vacuum chamber or a pressure chamber, etc. In other words, the container 16 may be considered to provide an enclosure for the vacuum or low pressure environment of the radiation source SO. Expressed differently, the pressure in the container 16 may be less than atmospheric pressure. The container 16 may be configured to enclose one or more components of the radiation source SO, such as the collector 5. It will be understood that the container may be configured to enclose additional components of the radiation source SO, as described below. The container 16 may include a modular container.

[0043]

[0042] The source SO may comprise one or more metrology modules or inspection devices, which in the following description will be referred to as inspection devices 18, one of which is shown in Figure 2. The inspection devices 18 may be attached to or part of the vessel 16. The inspection devices 18 may be precisely positioned relative to the vessel, for example using one or more kinematic mounts.

[0044] At least one of the inspection devices 18 may be part of a fuel droplet steering system 20 that includes a controller 22 and a fuel emitter 3. The inspection device 18 may be configured to determine a position of the fuel droplet D in the vessel 16, for example relative to the plasma formation region 4. The inspection device 18 may be in communication with the controller 22. The controller 22 may be configured to control the fuel emitter 3. For example, in response to a determination made by the inspection device 18, the controller 22 may control the fuel emitter 3 to control the trajectory T of the fuel droplet D towards the plasma formation region 4, for example by adjusting the fuel droplet emission timing and / or the fuel droplet emission direction.

[0045] It will be understood that the radiation source SO may comprise at least one other inspection device (not shown in FIG. 2). The other inspection device may be configured to determine a position of the laser beam relative to the plasma formation region. In response to, for example, a determination made by the other inspection device, the position of the laser beam relative to the plasma formation region may be adjusted or controlled, for example using the controller 22 or another controller. The controller 22 or another controller may be configured to communicate with the laser system 1 and / or the beam delivery system.

[0046]

[0045] The one or more inspection devices 18 may be provided in the form of a Droplet Detection Module (DDM), a Line Laser Module (LLM), a Droplet Illumination Module (DIM), a Droplet Forming Camera (DFC), a Coarse Droplet Steering Camera (CDSC) and / or a Fine Droplet Steering Camera (FDSC), etc. The one or more inspection devices 18 may comprise a pair of drop-forming cameras. The one or more inspection devices 18 may comprise an illumination module, for example a backlight laser module (BLM). The backlight laser module may be connected to the pair of drop-forming cameras or to one or each drop-forming camera.

[0047]

[0046] The radiation source SO may comprise a debris mitigation system 24, a part of which is shown in Figure 2. The debris mitigation system 24 may be configured to reduce fuel debris in the radiation source SO. The fuel debris may be emitted from the plasma formation region 4 of the radiation source SO. The fuel debris may include particulate debris, e.g. Sn clusters, Sn microparticles, Sn nanoparticles, and / or Sn precipitates, molecular and / or atomic debris, e.g. Sn vapor, SnHx vapor, Sn atoms, Sn ions, for example, if tin is used as a fuel.

[0048]

[0047] The debris mitigation system 24 may comprise a contamination trap 26a. The contamination trap 26a may be arranged to surround the plasma formation region 4. The contamination trap 26a may comprise a number of vanes 28. The number of vanes 28 may be configured to capture fuel debris emitted from the plasma formation region 4 of the radiation source SO. Although Figure 2 only shows the contamination trap 26a, it will be appreciated that the debris mitigation system 24 may comprise one or more other components, as described below.

[0049]

[0048] The radiation source SO may comprise a first fuel collector 27. The fuel collector may be configured to collect a portion of the fuel passing through the plasma formation region 4 without being converted to radiation-emitting plasma. The fuel collector 27 may be positioned on the trajectory T of the droplets D within the radiation source SO. The fuel collector 27 may comprise a receptacle, bucket, container, etc. (not shown). The first fuel collector 27 and / or the receptacle or container may be positioned outside the vessel 16. The debris mitigation system 24 may be configured to direct multiple gas flows in multiple directions within the radiation source SO to reduce deposition or accumulation of fuel debris on components within the radiation source SO, such as the collector 5.

[0050]

[0049] The radiation source SO may comprise a fuel debris collection system (not shown), which may be part of the debris mitigation system 24. The fuel debris collection system may comprise a second fuel collector in the form of a receptacle, bucket, container or the like, which collects fuel debris generated in the plasma formation region 4 of the radiation source SO.

[0051]

[0050] The debris mitigation system 24 may be configured in a modular manner. This may facilitate installation of the debris mitigation system 24, e.g. one or more parts thereof, within the radiation source SO, replacement of one or more parts of the debris mitigation system 24, and / or modification of one or more parts of the debris mitigation system 24. The debris mitigation system may comprise a gas flow device 26f (shown in Figure 3B) arranged between the collector 5 and the contamination trap 26a and configured to direct a gas flow towards the centre thereof.

[0052]

[0051] Figures 3A to 3C show an exemplary container 16 for use with the radiation source shown in Figures 1 to 3. The container 16 comprises a first opening for accessing the interior 32 of the container 16. The first opening 30 is shown in dashed lines in Figure 3B. One or more components of the radiation source SO, such as the collector 5, the second fuel collector 29a and the debris mitigation system 24, may be disposed in the interior 32 of the container 16 as described above. The container 16 comprises a first access member 34. The first access member 34 is configured to allow or prevent access to the interior 32 of the container 16 via the first opening 30. The first access member 34 may be provided in the form of a hatch, a door, a lid, or the like.

[0053]

[0052] The container 16 includes a second opening 36 for accessing the interior 32 of the container 16. The second opening 36 is shown in dashed lines in FIG. 3C. The second opening 36 is disposed on the first access member 34. In other words, the second opening 36 is part of or included in the first access member 34. The container 16 includes a second access member 38. The second access member 38 is disposed on the first access member 34. For example, the second access member 38 may be disposed on a surface 34a, e.g., an outer surface, of the first access member 34. The second access member 38 may be part of or included in the first access member 34. The second access member 38 may be provided in the form of a separate hatch, door, lid, or the like. The second access member 38 is configured to enable or disable access to the interior 32 of the container 16 via the second opening 36. The placement of the second access member 38 on and / or as part of the first access member 34 may allow for a compact arrangement of the container 16, e.g., the first and second access members 34, 38. Additionally or alternatively, the placement of the second access member 38 on the first access member 34 may facilitate easier access to the interior 32 of the container 16 and / or allow for an increased size or dimension of the first opening 30, as compared to, for example, an arrangement in which the second access member is spaced apart from the first access member.

[0054] 3A to 3C, the size or dimension of the first opening 30 is larger than the size or dimension of the second opening 36. The size or dimension of the first access member 34 is larger than the size or dimension of the second access member 38. This may allow access to various components of the radiation source SO. It will be understood that the size or dimension of the first access member 34 may be larger than the size or dimension of the first opening 30. The size or dimension of the second access member 38 may be larger than the size or dimension of the second opening 36. The first opening 30 may be configured to allow access to the first component of the radiation source SO. The first opening 30 may also be configured to allow access to the second component of the radiation source SO. In this embodiment, the first component may include at least a part or the entire debris mitigation system 24. The second component may include the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector. By configuring the first opening 30 to allow access to part or all of the debris mitigation system 24, one or more components or parts of the debris mitigation system 24, such as the contamination trap 26a, may be replaced without having to move or shift the container 16. This may facilitate replacement of part or all of the debris mitigation system 24 and may reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace part or all of the debris mitigation system 24.

[0055]

[0054] The first opening 30 may be configured to allow passage of part or all of the debris mitigation system 24 and / or the first opening 30 of the collector 5. Expressed differently, the size or dimensions of the first opening 30 may be selected to allow passage of part or all of the debris mitigation system 24 and / or the first opening 30 of the collector 5. For example, the first opening 30 may have a height H1 of about 0.85 m and / or a width W1 of about 1 m. The first opening 30 may be located in a wall 16a, for example an outer or side wall of the vessel 16.

[0056]

[0055] The second opening 36 may be configured to allow access to a second component of the radiation source SO, such as the collector 5, the gas flow device 26f, and / or the second fuel collector. The second opening 36 may be configured to pass the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector 29a through the second opening 36. In other words, the size or dimensions of the second opening 36 may be selected to pass the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector through the second opening 36. For example, the second opening may have a height H2 of about 0.25 m and a width W2 of about 0.8 m. The position of the second opening 36 in the first access member 34 may be selected based on the position of the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector 29a in the radiation source SO.

[0057]

[0056] The container 16 may be operable between at least two of a closed configuration, a first open configuration, and a second open configuration. In the closed configuration of the container 16 shown in Fig. 3A, the first and second access members 34, 38 are configured to disable access to the interior 32 of the container 16. In other words, the first and second access members 34, 38 are closed and block the first and second openings 30, 36, respectively. In the closed configuration of the container 16, the first access member 34 may be fastened to the wall 16a of the container 16, for example, using a fastening device. The fastening device may include a number of fasteners 39, such as screws or bolts, with four fasteners shown in Fig. 3A. The fastening device may include a number of holes 39a, 39b. The holes 39a, 39b may be positioned in the first access member 34 and the container 16, e.g., in the wall 16a of the container 16, such that the first access member 34 can be fastened to the wall 16a of the container 16 using, for example, fasteners 39. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3B and 3C, four holes 39a are positioned around the periphery of the first access member 34 and four corresponding holes 39b are positioned around the periphery of the first opening 30. It will be understood that in other embodiments the first access member and / or the wall of the container may include more or less than four holes. It will also be understood that in other embodiments more or less than four fasteners may be used.

[0058]

[0057] The fastening device may comprise a plurality of further holes 39c, 39d. The further holes 39c, 39d may be disposed in the second access member 38 and the first access member 34, e.g., in the wall 42 of the first access member 34. It will be understood that the wall 42 of the first access member 34 may include the surface 34a of the first access member 34. The holes 39c, 39d may be disposed in the second access member 38 and the first access member 34, e.g., in the wall 42 of the first access member 34, such that the second access member 38 can be fastened to the wall 42 of the first access member 34, e.g., using a further fastener 39e. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the two further holes 39c are disposed around the periphery of the second access member 34, and the corresponding two holes 39d are disposed around the periphery of the second opening 36. It will be understood that in other embodiments, the second access member and / or the first access member may comprise more or less than two further holes.

[0059]

[0058] The container 16 may be configured such that the interior 32 of the container 16 is sealed by the first and / or second access members 34, 38. The first access member 34 may be configured such that a seal can be formed between the first access member 34 and the container 16. For example, the container 16 may include one or more seal elements. The first seal element 40a may be disposed on the first access member 34, e.g., on another surface 34b, e.g., the inner surface 34b, of the first access member 34. The first access member 34 may be configured such that at least a portion of the another surface 34b of the first access member 34 abuts or contacts a portion of the wall 16a of the container 16, e.g., when the container 16 is in a closed configuration. The first access member 34 may be configured such that the surface 34a and the another surface 34b face each other.

[0060]

[0059] The second access member 38 may be configured to form a separate seal between the first access member 34 and the second access member 38. In other words, the second access member 38 may be configured to form a separate seal with the wall 42 of the first access member 34, e.g., a portion thereof. The second seal element 40b may be disposed on the second access member 38, e.g., such that a separate seal may be formed between the second access member 38 and the first access member 34. The second seal element may be disposed on a surface 38a, e.g., an inner surface, of the second access member 38. The second access member 38 may be configured such that at least a portion of the surface 38a of the second access member 38 abuts or contacts the wall 42 and / or a portion of the surface 34a of the first access member 34, e.g., when the container 16 is in the closed configuration.

[0061] In the first open configuration of the container 16 shown in Figure 3B, the first access member 34 is configured to allow access to the interior 32 of the container 16 through the first opening 30. Stated differently, the first access member 34 may be open and the first opening 30 may be unblocked, while the second access member 38 may be closed and the second opening 36 may be blocked. The container 16 may be manipulated into the first open configuration by undoing and / or removing the fasteners 39 from the first access member 34 and the holes 39a, 39b in the container 16.

[0062] 3C, the second access member 38 is configured to allow access to the interior 32 of the container 16 via the second opening 36. In other words, the first access member 34 may be closed, the second access member 38 may be open, and the second opening 36 may be unobstructed. The container 16 may be manipulated into the second open configuration by unscrewing and / or removing the second fastener 39e from the second access member 38 and the second opening 39c, 39d of the first access member 34.

[0063]

[0062] By configuring the vessel 16 to be operable between at least two of a closed configuration, a first open configuration and a second open configuration, access to the interior 32 of the vessel 16 or parts thereof may be facilitated to enable replacement of one or more components of the radiation source SO, such as, for example, the collector 5, the second fuel collector 29a, and / or part or all of the debris mitigation system 24.

[0064]

[0063] The container 16 may include one or more connecting members, such as first and / or second connecting members 44a, 44b. The first connecting member 44a may be configured to connect the first access member 34 to the container 16, such as the wall 16a. The second connecting member 44b may be configured to connect the second access member 38 to the first access member 34. The first and second connecting members 44a, 44b may each be provided in the form of a hinge, a pivot mechanism, a joint mechanism, or the like. The first and / or second connecting members 44a, 44b may be configured to allow manipulation of the container 16 between at least two of a closed configuration of the container 16, a first open configuration of the container 16, and a second open configuration of the container 16.

[0065]

[0064] The first connecting member 44a may be configured to allow rotation of the first access member 34 about a first axis A1, for example, when the container 16 is operated from a closed configuration to a first open configuration. The first connecting member 44a may be configured to allow rotation of the first access member 34 about a second axis A2, for example, when the container 16 is operated from a closed configuration to a first open configuration. Expressed differently, the first connecting member 44a may be configured to allow the first access member 34 to rotate or pivot about the first axis A1 and the second axis A2. The first and second axes A1, A2 are shown in FIG. 3A with dotted lines. The first connecting member 44a may be configured such that the first axis A1 extends in a vertical direction. The vertical direction may be considered to be a direction parallel to the y direction shown in the coordinate system of FIG. 3A. The first connection member 44a may be configured such that the second axis A2 extends in a direction perpendicular (e.g., substantially perpendicular) to the first axis A1 as shown in FIG. 3A. In other words, the second axis A2 may be considered to extend in a direction parallel to the x-direction shown in the coordinate system of FIG. 3A. As can be seen from FIG. 2, the radiation source SO may be arranged to extend at an angle to the vertical direction. The wall 16a of the container 16, or at least a portion thereof, on which the first access member 34 is arranged, may extend at an angle to the vertical direction. Thus, the first access member 34 may be considered to be arranged at an angle to the vertical direction. The second access member 34 may be considered to extend in a vertical direction.

[0066]

[0065] The first connecting member 44a may be configured such that the first access member 34 rotates sequentially about the first axis A1 and the second axis A2, or vice versa, when, for example, the container 16 is manipulated between the closed configuration and the first open configuration. When the container 16 is in the first open configuration, the first access member 34 may extend vertically. This configuration of the first connecting member 44a may disable access to the interior 32 of the container 16 by being blocked or restricted by the first access member 34, for example, when the container 16 is in the first open configuration.

[0067]

[0066] The first connection member 44a may be configured to counteract, e.g., at least partially counteract, a force of gravity acting on the first access member 34, for example, when the container is manipulated from the first open configuration to the closed configuration. In other words, the first connection member 44a may be configured to counter, e.g., at least partially counter, a force of gravity acting on the first access member 34. The force of gravity may result from the radiation source SO and / or the first access member 34 being disposed at an angle to the vertical. By configuring the first connection member 44a to counteract the force of gravity, for example, a shock force acting on the container 16 may be reduced or reduced when the container is manipulated from the first open configuration to the closed configuration. This, in turn, may reduce or reduce changes in the alignment of the inspection device 18. The first connection member 44a may comprise one or more tension elements (not shown). The tension elements may be provided in the form of one or more springs or elastic elements. The tensioning element may be configured to counteract, e.g., at least partially counteract, the force of gravity acting on the first access member 34, e.g., when the container is manipulated from the first open configuration to the closed configuration. For example, the tensioning element may be pre-tensioned. It will be understood that the first connecting member is not limited to the configurations disclosed herein, and in other embodiments, the first connecting member may be configured differently. For example, the first connecting member may be configured such that the first access member may be rotatable or pivotable about a single axis, e.g., extending vertically, or about three or more axes.

[0068]

[0067] The second connecting member 44b may be configured to allow rotation of the second access member 38 about another axis B, for example, when the container 16 is manipulated from a closed configuration to a second open configuration. Stated differently, the second connecting member 44b may be configured to allow the second access member 38 to rotate or pivot about another axis B. The another axis B is shown in dotted lines in FIG. 3A. The second connecting member 44b may be configured such that the another axis B extends vertically. It will be understood that the second connecting member is not limited to the configurations disclosed herein, and in other embodiments, the second connecting member may be configured differently. For example, the second connecting member may be configured similarly to the first connecting member.

[0069]

[0068] The container 16 may include a mounting 46 for mounting the inspection device 18 to the container 16. While FIG. 3B shows three inspection devices 18 mounted on the container 16, it will be understood that in other embodiments, more or less than three inspection devices may be mounted on the container. The mounting 46 may be part of or included in the first access member 34. By providing the mounting 46 as part of the first access member 34, it may not be necessary to remove the inspection device before manipulating the container 16 between the closed configuration and the first or second open configuration. This may avoid or reduce the need for alignment of the inspection device. This may in turn reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace one or more components of the radiation source SO, such as the collector 5 and / or part or all of the debris mitigation system 24.

[0070]

[0069] The mounting portion 46 may be configured to mount the inspection apparatus 18 relative to a reference point in the interior 32 of the vessel 16. For example, the mounting portion 46 may be configured to mount the inspection apparatus relative to the plasma formation region 4 of the radiation source SO.

[0071]

[0070] The mounting portion 46 may be configured to maintain a position of the inspection device 18 relative to the plasma formation region 4, for example, after manipulation of the vessel 16 between a closed configuration and a first or second open configuration. In other words, alignment of the inspection device 18 relative to the plasma formation region 4 may be maintained during manipulation of the vessel 16. This may avoid or reduce the need for alignment of the inspection device 18 relative to the plasma formation region 4.

[0072]

[0071] The mounting portion 46 may include one or more recesses or openings 46a, three of which are shown in Figure 3B. Each recess or opening 46a may be configured to receive at least a portion of a corresponding inspection device 18. In other words, at least a portion of each inspection device 18 may be received in each recess or opening 46a to extend at least partially into the interior 32 of the container 16.

[0073]

[0072] The second access member 38 may be located or provided away from the mounting portion 46 as shown in Figures 3A and 3C. In this embodiment, the second access member 38 is located below the mounting portion 46. This may allow direct access to the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector 29a while maintaining the alignment of the inspection device 18 with respect to the plasma formation region 4. In other words, the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector 29a may be replaced without having to remove the inspection device 18 before accessing the collector 5. This may reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector 29a. It will be understood that the second access member is not limited to being located below the mounting portion. For example, in other embodiments, the second access member may be provided at a different position relative to the mounting portion.

[0074]

[0073] The vessel 16 may comprise a plurality of connection elements 48. The plurality of connection elements 48 may be configured to provide a connection of a cooling source, a gas supply and / or a power source to one or more components of the radiation source SO. The connection elements 48 may be configured to pass or transfer a coolant, a gas and / or a power to one or more components of the radiation source. Each connection element may be or include a penetrating element. At least a portion of the connection elements 48 may be part of the first access member 34. At least a portion of the connection elements 48 may be part of the second access member 38. Although Figures 3A-3C show four connection elements that are part of the first access member, it will be understood that in other embodiments the first access member may comprise more or less than four connection elements. Similarly, the second access member may comprise more or less than two connection elements. Additionally or alternatively, it will be understood that in some embodiments only the first access member or only the second access member may comprise one or more connection elements.

[0075]

[0074] In this embodiment, the connection element 48 may be configured to be connected to a cooling source (not shown). The coolant may be provided in the form of a fluid. For example, the coolant may be provided in the form of water. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments, it may be another cooling fluid, such as another cooling liquid or a cooling gas. The connection element 48 may be configured to allow connection of the cooling source to the debris mitigation system 24, such as the contamination trap 26a and / or the collector 5. For example, the connection element 48, which is part of the first access member 34, may be configured to allow connection of the cooling source to the debris mitigation system 24, such as the contamination trap 26a. The connection element 48, which is part of the second access member 38, may be configured to allow connection of the cooling source to the collector 5.

[0076]

[0075] The container 16 may be made of a metallic material. The metallic material may be selected to provide the container 16 with sufficient rigidity and / or thermal stability, for example to maintain the alignment of the inspection device 18. In this embodiment, the metallic material may include aluminum. This may allow for improved or desired rigidity and / or thermal stability of the container 16. Additionally or alternatively, the use of aluminum may facilitate the manufacture of the container 16 or parts thereof.

[0077]

[0076] Figure 4 shows another schematic diagram of the container 16 shown in Figures 3A to 3C. Some features shown in Figures 3A to 3C are omitted from Figure 4 for clarity. However, it will be understood that the container 16 shown in Figure 4 may include any of the features of the container described above in relation to Figures 3A to 3C. The container 16 may include a cooling device 50. The cooling device 50 may include a number of coolant channels 50a. The coolant channels 50a may be configured to direct the flow of the coolant therein. An exemplary flow of the coolant in the coolant channels is shown by arrows in Figure 4. As explained above, the coolant may be provided in the form of a fluid. For example, the coolant may be provided in the form of water. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments, another cooling fluid, such as another cooling liquid or a cooling gas, may be provided.

[0078]

[0077] The container 16 may comprise multiple walls 16a, e.g. multiple side or outer walls, two of which are shown in FIG. 4. The coolant channels 50a may be arranged in the wall 16a of the container 16. For example, the coolant channels 50a may be provided in the wall 16a of the container 16 in the form of multiple additional holes, e.g. through holes and / or blind holes. The coolant channels 50a may be formed directly in the wall 16a of the container 16. For example, the coolant channels 50a may be formed in the wall 16a of the container 16 using a drilling or cutting process. This may allow for good thermal contact between the coolant flowing through the coolant channels 50a and the material of the container 16, e.g. the wall 16a of the container 16. Although FIG. 4 shows the coolant channels as being arranged in the side or outer walls of the container, it will be understood that the containers disclosed herein are not limited to this arrangement of the coolant channels. For example, one or more additional coolant channels may be arranged in the top and / or bottom walls of the container.

[0079]

[0078] The coolant channels 50a may be arranged to extend along at least a portion of each of the walls 16a of the vessel 16. It will be appreciated that the arrangement or configuration of the coolant channels 50a in the vessel 16 may be selected based on the thermal load acting on the vessel 16, e.g. by heat emitted from the plasma formation region 4, e.g. during operation of the radiation source SO. It will be appreciated that additionally or alternatively, other components or parts of the radiation source SO may emit heat and thereby contribute to the thermal load acting on the vessel 16.

[0080]

[0079] A portion of the coolant channel 50a may be part of the first access member 34. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a portion of the coolant channel 50a may be arranged to extend along at least a portion of the mounting portion 46. This may improve the thermal stability of the mounting portion 46. In other words, by arranging a portion of the coolant channel 50a to extend along at least a portion of the mounting portion 46, the temperature of the mounting portion 46 may remain constant (e.g., substantially constant) during operation of, for example, the radiation source SO. This may reduce or minimize changes in the alignment of the inspection device 18, which may be due to, for example, thermal loads acting on the container 16, for example the mounting portion 46. It will be understood that in other embodiments, at least a portion of the coolant channel may additionally or alternatively be part of the second access member.

[0081]

[0080] The cooling device 50 may include an inlet 50b. The cooling device 50 may include an outlet 50c. The cooling device 50 may include a cooling source as described above. The inlet 50b may be connected to the cooling source to supply a coolant having a first temperature to the coolant channel 50a. The outlet 50c may be connected to the cooling source to receive a coolant having a second temperature from the coolant channel 50a. The second temperature may be higher or greater than the first temperature. It will be understood that in other embodiments, the cooling device may include another cooling source. It will be understood that the cooling device 50 may include one or more elements, such as one or more flanges, for connecting two or more coolant channels 50a together. Additionally or alternatively, the cooling device may include one or more other elements, such as one or more closing flanges, closing pluses, closing covers, etc., for covering or closing a part or all of one or more coolant channels 50a. For example, the other elements may be configured to cover or close the ends of one or more coolant channels 50a. This and other elements are not shown in Figure 4 for clarity. It will be understood that the containers disclosed herein are not limited to having a cooling device as shown in Figure 4. For example, in other embodiments, the coolant channels may be arranged in a different manner and / or the number of coolant channels may differ.

[0082]

[0081] The first access member 34 and the second access member 38 may be disposed in the vessel 16 to provide unobstructed access to the interior 32 of the vessel 16. This may facilitate and / or improve access to the interior 32 of the vessel 16. The improved access to the interior 32 of the vessel 16 may reduce the number of steps required to replace one or more components of the radiation source SO. For example, removal of the beam delivery system and / or movement of the vessel may not be required to access the contamination trap 26a of the debris mitigation system 24 and / or other components of the debris mitigation system 24. This may reduce the time and / or personnel required to replace one or more components of the radiation source SO. For example, the time required to replace the contamination trap 26a of the debris mitigation system 24 may be reduced by about four times or more. Expressed differently, the time required to replace the contamination trap 26a may be reduced from about 110 hours to less than 24 hours.

[0083] Additionally or alternatively, the first and second access members 34, 38 may enable replacement of one or more components of the radiation source SO, such as at least a portion of the debris mitigation system 24, with an alternative or new component of the radiation source. Stated differently, the first and second access members 34, 38 may enable one or more components of the radiation source to be easily modified or replaced.

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, the first access member 34 may include a mounting portion 46 as described above, so that removal of one or more inspection devices, for example, to access the collector 5, may not be necessary. Again, this may reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace the collector 5 of the radiation source SO. For example, the time required to replace the collector 5 may be reduced by about 5 times or more. Expressed differently, the time to replace the collector 5 may be reduced from 40 hours to about 8 hours. It has been found that the reduction in steps may also reduce the risk of damage to the components of the radiation source SO, the container and / or the tools used for replacement.

[0085]

[0084] Figures 5A and 5B show another exemplary container 116 for use with the radiation source SO shown in Figures 1 to 3. The container 116 shown in Figures 5A and 5B is similar to the container described above in relation to Figures 3A to 3C and 4. Thus, any features described in relation thereto may apply to the container shown in Figures 5A and 5B. In Figures 5A and 5B, similar features are indicated by similar reference numbers incremented by 100.

[0086] 5A and 5B, in this embodiment, the container 16 includes an opening 130 for accessing the interior 132 of the container 116. The container 116 includes an access member 134. The access member 134 may be provided in the form of a hatch, a door, a lid, etc. The access member 134 may be configured to allow or prevent access to the interior 132 of the container 116 via the opening 130. The container 116, the opening 130, and / or the access member 134 may include any of the features of the container 16, the first opening 30, and / or the first access member 34 described above.

[0087]

[0086] The container 116 may be operable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration of the container 116 shown in Fig. 6A, the access member 134 is configured to disable access to the interior 132 of the container 116. In other words, the access member 134 is closed and blocks the opening 130. In the closed configuration of the container 116, the access member 134 may be fastened to the wall 116a of the container 116, for example, using a fastening device. The fastening device may include one or more fasteners 139, such as screws or bolts. The fastening device may include a plurality of holes 139a, 139b. The holes 139a, 139b may be arranged in the access member 134 and the container 116, for example, the wall 116a of the container 116, such that the access member 134 can be fastened to the wall 116a of the container 116, for example, using the fasteners 139. 5A, four holes 139a are disposed around the periphery of the access member 134 and four corresponding holes 139b are disposed around the periphery of the opening 130. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the access member and / or the wall of the container may include more or less than four holes.

[0088] 5B, the access member 134 is configured to allow access to the interior 132 of the container 116 through the opening 130. Stated differently, the access member 134 may be open and the opening 130 unblocked. The container 116 may be manipulated to the open position by unscrewing and / or removing the fasteners 139 from the access member 134 and the holes 139a, 139b in the container 116.

[0089]

[0088] The access member 134 includes a mounting 146 for mounting one or more metrology modules or inspection devices 118 to the vessel 116. The mounting 146 may include any of the features of the mounting 46 described above in relation to Figures 3A-3C and 4. By providing the mounting 146 as part of the access member 134, it may not be necessary to remove the inspection device 118 before manipulating the vessel 116 between the closed and open configurations. This may avoid or reduce the need for alignment of the inspection device. As explained above, this may reduce the time and / or number of steps required to replace one or more components of the radiation source SO, such as the collector 105, the second fuel collector (not shown in Figures 5A and 5B) and / or part or all of the debris mitigation system 124.

[0090]

[0089] Figure 6 shows a flow chart outlining the steps of a method for replacing at least a first component of an EUV radiation source. The radiation source may include the radiation source SO described above. The radiation source may comprise the container 16 described in relation to Figures 3A to 3C and 4. In this embodiment, the first component may include a contamination trap 26a of the debris mitigation system 24. However, it will be appreciated that the method is not limited to replacing a contamination trap of a debris mitigation system. In other embodiments, the first component may include another part or component of the debris mitigation system, such as a fuel debris removal device, or another component of the radiation source.

[0091]

[0090] The method includes manipulating (step 705) the first access member 34 to allow access to the interior 32 of the container 16 through the first opening 30. Manipulating (705) the first access member 34 may include manipulating the container 16 from a closed configuration shown in FIG. 3A to a first open configuration shown in FIG. 3B. Manipulating (705) the first access member 34 may include disengaging and / or removing the fasteners 39 from the holes 39a, 39b. The method may include cooling the container 16 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., components thereof, e.g., before manipulating (705) the first access member 34. The method may include returning the interior 32 of the container 16 to atmospheric pressure, e.g., before manipulating the first access member 34. The method may include, for example, prior to step (705) of manipulating the first access member 34, disconnecting the cooling source from a number of connecting elements 48 that may be part of the first access member 34 and / or the second access member 38.

[0092]

[0091] In step 710, the method includes removing the contamination trap 26a to be replaced. The step (710) of removing the contamination trap 26 to be replaced may include disconnecting the contamination trap 26a from at least another portion of the debris mitigation system 24 and the gas flow device 26f. The step (710) of removing the contamination trap 26a may include passing the contamination trap 26a to be replaced through the first opening 30.

[0093]

[0092] In step 715, the method includes installing a contaminant trap for use. The contaminant trap for use may include an unused, cleaned, refurbished or new contaminant trap.

[0094]

[0093] In step 720, the method includes manipulating the first access member 34 to disable access to the interior 32 of the container 16 through the first opening 30. The step of manipulating the first access member 34 to disable access (720) may include manipulating the container 16 from a first open configuration shown in FIG. 3B to a closed configuration shown in FIG. 3A. The step of manipulating the first access member 34 to disable access (720) may include inserting fasteners 39 into the holes 39a, 39b and / or tightening the fasteners 39. The method may include heating the container 16 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., components thereof, e.g., after the step of manipulating the first access member 34 to disable access (720). The method may include reducing the pressure of the interior 32 of the container 16 to substantially below atmospheric pressure, e.g., after the step of manipulating the first access member 34 to disable access (720). The method may include, after the step of manipulating the first access member (720), for example to disable access, connecting a cooling source to a number of connecting elements 48, which may be part of the first access member and / or the second access member.

[0095]

[0094] Figure 7 shows a flow chart outlining the steps of a method for replacing a second component of an EUV radiation source. The radiation source may include the radiation source SO as described above. The radiation source SO may comprise the container 16 described in relation to Figures 3A to 3C and 4. In this embodiment, the second component may include the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector. However, it will be appreciated that the method is not limited to replacing the collector 5 and / or the second fuel collector. In other embodiments, the second component may include another component of the radiation source SO.

[0096]

[0095] In step 805, the method includes manipulating the second access member 38 to allow access to the interior 32 of the vessel 16 through the second opening 36. The step (805) of manipulating the second access member 38 may include manipulating the vessel 16 from a closed configuration shown in FIG. 3A to a second open configuration shown in FIG. 3C. The step (805) of manipulating the second access member 38 may include disengaging and / or removing the further fastener 39e from the further hole 39d, 39c. The method may include cooling the vessel 16 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., each part thereof, e.g., before the step (805) of manipulating the second access member. The method may include returning the interior 32 of the vessel 16 to atmospheric pressure, e.g., before the step (805) of manipulating the second access member 38. The method may include decoupling the cooling source from a plurality of connecting elements 48, which may be part of the second access member, e.g., before the step (805) of manipulating the second access member 38.

[0097]

[0096] In step 810, the method includes removing the collector 5 to be replaced. The step of removing the collector 5 to be replaced may include disconnecting the collector 5 from the debris mitigation system 24. The step of removing the collector 5 may include passing the collector 5 to be replaced through the second opening 36. The method may include removing the second fuel collector to be replaced, for example after the step of removing the collector 5. The method may include passing the second fuel collector to be replaced through the second opening 36.

[0098]

[0097] In step 815, the method includes installing a used collector. The used collector may include an unused, cleaned, repaired, or new collector. The method may include installing a used second fuel collector, for example, prior to installing the used collector. The used second fuel collector may include an unused, cleaned, repaired, or new second fuel collector.

[0099]

[0098] In step 820, the method includes manipulating the second access member 38 to disable access to the interior of the container through the second opening. The step of manipulating the second access member to disable access may include manipulating the container 16 from the second open configuration shown in FIG. 3C to the closed configuration shown in FIG. 3A. The step of manipulating the second access member 38 to disable access (820) may include inserting another fastener 39e into another hole 39c, 39d and / or fastening the fastener 39e. The method may include heating the container 16 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., components thereof, e.g., after the step of manipulating the second access member 38 to disable access (820). The method may include reducing the pressure of the interior 32 of the container 16 to substantially below atmospheric pressure, e.g., after the step of manipulating the second access member 38 to disable access (820). The method may include, for example, after the step of manipulating (820) the second access member 38 to disable access, connecting the cooling source to a number of connection elements 48, which may be part of the second access member.

[0100] It will be appreciated that any of the method steps described in relation to Figures 6 and 7 may be used in conjunction with one another or independently of one another.

[0101] It will be understood that any of the steps of the above method may be applied to a radiation source SO comprising a vessel 116 as shown in Figures 5A and 5B. And the method may include manipulating an access member 134 to allow access to an interior 132 of the vessel 116 via an opening 130. The step of manipulating the access member 134 may include manipulating the vessel 116 from a closed configuration as shown in Figure 5A to an open configuration as shown in Figure 5B. The step of manipulating the access member 134 may include disengaging and / or removing the fasteners 139 from the holes 139a, 139b. The method may include cooling the vessel 116 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., components thereof, e.g., before the step of manipulating the access member. The method may include returning the interior 132 of the vessel 116 to atmospheric pressure, e.g., before the step of manipulating the access member 134. The method may include decoupling a cooling source from a number of connecting elements 148, which may be part of the access member 134, e.g., before the step of manipulating the access member 134.

[0102] The method may include removing the contamination trap 126a to be replaced. Removing the contamination trap 126a to be replaced may include disconnecting the contamination trap 126a from at least another portion of the debris mitigation system 124 and the gas flow device 126f. Removing the contamination trap 126a may include passing the contamination trap 126a to be replaced through the first opening 130.

[0103] Additionally or alternatively, the method may include removing the collector to be replaced. The step of removing the collector 105 to be replaced may include disconnecting the collector 105 from the debris mitigation system 124. The step of removing the collector 105 may include passing the collector 105 to be replaced through the opening 130. The method may include removing a second fuel collector to be replaced, for example after the step of removing the collector 105. The method may include passing the second fuel collector to be replaced through the opening 130.

[0104]

[0103] The method may include installing a used pollution trap and / or collector. The used pollution trap may include an unused, cleaned, repaired or new pollution trap. The used collector may include an unused, cleaned, repaired or new collector. The method may include installing a used second fuel collector, for example prior to installing the used collector and / or pollution trap. The used second fuel collector may include an unused, cleaned, repaired or new second fuel collector.

[0105]

[0104] The method may include manipulating the access member 134 to disable access to the interior 132 of the container 116 through the opening 130. The step of manipulating the access member 134 to disable access may include manipulating the container 116 from an open configuration shown in FIG. 6B to a closed configuration shown in FIG. 6A. The step of manipulating the access member 134 to disable access may include inserting fasteners 139 into the holes 139a, 139b and / or fastening the fasteners 139. The method may include heating the container 116 and / or the radiation source SO, e.g., each part thereof, e.g., after the step of manipulating the access member 134 to disable access. The method may include reducing the pressure inside the container 116 to substantially below atmospheric pressure, e.g., after the step of manipulating the access member 134 to disable access. The method may include connecting a cooling source to a plurality of connecting elements 148, which may be part of the access member 134, e.g., after the step of manipulating the access member 134 to disable access.

[0106]

[0105] It will be understood that the terms "EUV radiation source" and "radiation source" may be used interchangeably.

[0107] It will be understood that references to a plurality of features may be used interchangeably with references to the singular of those features, such as "at least one" and / or "each." The singular of a feature, such as "at least one" or "each," may be used interchangeably.

[0108]

[0107] The term "EUV radiation" may be considered to encompass electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength in the range of 4 to 20 nm, for example in the range of 13 to 14 nm. EUV radiation may have a wavelength less than 10 nm, for example in the range of 4 to 10 nm, such as 6.7 nm or 6.8 nm.

[0109]

[0108] Although specific reference may be made in this text to the use of lithographic apparatus in the manufacture of ICs, it will be appreciated that the lithographic apparatus described herein have other applications, such as in the manufacture of integrated optical systems, guidance and detection patterns for magnetic domain memories, flat panel displays, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), thin film magnetic heads, etc.

[0110]

[0109] Although specific reference has been made above to the use of embodiments of the present invention in connection with optical lithography, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be used in other applications, such as imprint lithography, and is not limited to optical lithography, where the context permits.

[0111]

[0110] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it will be understood that the present invention can be practiced in other ways than as described. The above description is illustrative and not restrictive. Thus, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention as described can be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A container for an EUV radiation source, comprising: a first opening for accessing an interior of the container; a first access member for enabling or disabling access to the interior of the container through the first opening; a second opening disposed in the first access member for accessing an interior of the container; a second access member disposed on the first access member for enabling or disabling access to the interior of the container through the second opening; the first opening allows access to a first component and a second component of the radiation source and allows passage of the first and / or second components of the radiation source through the first opening; The container, wherein the second opening allows access to the second component of the radiation source and allows passage of the second component of the radiation source through the second opening.

2. the container is operable between at least two of a closed configuration, a first open configuration, and a second open configuration; in the closed configuration, the first and second access members prevent access to the interior of the container; in the first open configuration, the first access member provides access to the interior of the container through the first opening; 2. The container of claim 1, wherein in said second open configuration, said second access member provides access to said interior of said container through said second opening.

3. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the container comprises a mounting portion for mounting one or more metrology modules or inspection devices to the container, the mounting portion being part of or included in the first access member.

4. The vessel of claim 3 , wherein the mounting portion mounts the one or more metrology modules or inspection devices to a reference point within the vessel.

5. 5. The container of claim 3 or 4, wherein the second access member is located spaced from and / or below the mounting portion.

6. A source of EUV radiation comprising a container according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The radiation source of claim 6 , wherein the radiation source comprises a modular debris mitigation system.

8. The radiation source of claim 7 , wherein a first component of the radiation source comprises at least a part or the entirety of the debris mitigation system of the radiation source.

9. a second component of the radiation source comprising:

9. The radiation source of any one of claims 6 to 8, comprising at least one of a collector mirror for collecting radiation emitted in a plasma formation region of the radiation source, and a fuel collector for collecting fuel debris generated in the plasma formation region of the radiation source.

10. A lithographic system comprising a radiation source and a lithographic apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. 6. A method for replacing at least a first component of an EUV radiation source comprising a container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising the steps of: manipulating the first access member to provide access to the interior of the container through the first opening; Removing at least the first component to be replaced; Installing at least a first further component to be used; manipulating the first access member to disable access to the interior of the container through the first opening; A method comprising:

12. 6. A method for replacing a second component of an EUV radiation source comprising a container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising the steps of: manipulating the second access member to provide access to the interior of the container through the second opening; Removing the second component to be replaced; Providing a second component to be used; and manipulating the second access member to disable access to the interior of the container through the second opening; A method comprising:

Images