Illumination Parameter Prediction Model Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for predicting illumination parameters in projection exposure apparatuses are inefficient, leading to suboptimal illumination settings and increased measurement time, which affects the throughput of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A method that calibrates a model for predicting illumination parameters by determining constant and dynamic correction terms, allowing for the prediction of illumination settings not included in the calibration settings, with a reduced number of calibration measurements, thereby shortening measurement time and improving prediction accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a model is calibrated using a large number of illumination settings to improve prediction accuracy, then the prediction precision of illumination parameters is improved, but the measurement time and calibration complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the correction terms into two distinct categories: constant correction terms (valid for all illumination settings) and dynamic correction terms (specific to each illumination setting). This segmentation allows the calibration process to focus measurements only on determining these correction terms rather than measuring all illumination parameters across all settings, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining prediction accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calibration by determining constant correction terms once during initial setup, which can then be reused for all subsequent illumination settings. This preliminary action eliminates the need to repeatedly measure and calibrate the same geometric deviations for each new illumination setting, significantly reducing ongoing calibration time while preserving accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of calibration settings is increased to cover more illumination scenarios, then the adaptability of the model is improved, but the measurement time and throughput are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The constant correction terms serve a universal function across all illumination settings, capturing geometric deviations that affect all settings equally. By determining these terms once and applying them universally, the system achieves broad adaptability without requiring separate calibration for each illumination setting, thus maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by determining correction terms for only a subset of illumination parameters (constant terms applicable to all settings and dynamic terms for specific settings) rather than measuring all parameters for all settings. This partial calibration approach provides sufficient adaptability for practical use while avoiding the excessive measurement time that would result from comprehensive calibration.
3Reliability
If frequent recalibration is performed to account for dynamic variations in the radiation source, then the reliability of illumination parameter prediction is improved, but the measurement time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic correction terms that specifically account for time-varying variations in the radiation source and other dynamic conditions. These correction terms can be updated periodically or when significant changes occur, allowing the model to adapt to dynamic conditions without requiring continuous recalibration, thus maintaining reliability while minimizing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic recalibration to update dynamic correction terms at scheduled intervals or when triggered by specific conditions (e.g., source replacement, significant performance drift). This periodic approach maintains prediction reliability under dynamic conditions while avoiding excessive recalibration that would reduce operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for predicting at least one illumination parameter for evaluating an illumination setting for illuminating an object field of a projection exposure apparatus, illumination parameters are measured at a number of calibration settings, correction terms for prediction values of the illumination parameters are determined from the measured values, and then at least one illumination parameter of at least one illumination setting, which is not contained in the set of n calibration settings, is predicted.


