U.S. patent application number 15/086867 was filed with the patent office on 2016-07-21 for measuring method, stage apparatus, and exposure apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKON CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is NIKON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Dai ARAI.
Application Number | 20160209764 15/086867 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40259688 |
Filed Date | 2016-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160209764 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ARAI; Dai |
July 21, 2016 |
MEASURING METHOD, STAGE APPARATUS, AND EXPOSURE APPARATUS
Abstract
An exposure apparatus can mitigate the impact of fluctuations in
the refractive index of ambient gas, and improve, for example,
stage positioning accuracy. An exposure apparatus radiates an
exposure illumination light to a wafer on a wafer stage through a
projection optical system, and forms a prescribed pattern on the
wafer, and comprises: a scale, which is provided to the wafer
stage; a plurality of X heads, which detect information related to
the position of the scale; a measurement frame that integrally
supports the plurality of X heads and has a coefficient of linear
thermal expansion that is smaller than that of the main body of the
wafer stage (portions excepting a plate wherein the scale is
formed); and a control apparatus that derives information related
to the displacement of the wafer stage based on the detection
results of the plurality of X heads.
Inventors: |
ARAI; Dai; (Tokyo,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKON CORPORATION |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
NIKON CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
40259688 |
Appl. No.: |
15/086867 |
Filed: |
March 31, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12219110 |
Jul 16, 2008 |
9316917 |
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15086867 |
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60929988 |
Jul 20, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G03F 7/70858 20130101;
G03F 7/70341 20130101; G03F 7/7015 20130101; G03F 7/70775 20130101;
G03F 7/70725 20130101; G03F 7/709 20130101; Y10T 29/49002 20150115;
G03F 7/70716 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G03F 7/20 20060101
G03F007/20 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 18, 2007 |
JP |
2007-187649 |
Claims
1. An exposure apparatus for exposing a substrate with illumination
light via a projection optical system, the apparatus comprising: a
frame member for supporting the projection optical system; a
detection system provided at the frame member apart from the
projection optical system and configured to detect a mark of the
substrate; a plurality of grating members, each of which having a
reflecting-type grating, and each of which being provided at the
frame member such that the reflecting-type grating is arranged
substantially parallel with a predetermined plane perpendicular to
an optical axis of the projection optical system; a base arranged
below the projection optical system and the detection system; a
stage arranged on the base, the stage having a holder configured to
hold the substrate and being movable below the grating members; a
drive system configured to move the stage so as to arrange the
substrate opposite to the projection optical system and the
detection system, respectively; an encoder system having a
plurality of heads provided at the stage, each of which being
configured to irradiate a beam onto the grating member from below
the grating member, so as to obtain position information of the
stage; and a controller configured to control the drive system
based on the position information obtained by the encoder system,
wherein the grating members are supported via a flexural member by
the frame member.
2. The exposure apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the holder
is arranged in a recess of an upper surface of the stage, and
wherein each of the heads is provided at a more outward position
than the upper surface.
3. The exposure apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a nozzle member provided to surround a lens, the lens being one of
a plurality of optical elements of the projection optical system
and being arranged closest to an image surface, the nozzle member
being configured to form an immersion area with liquid so as to
include an optical path of the illumination light between the lens
and the substrate, wherein the grating members are arranged at a
more outward position than the nozzle member, and wherein the
apparatus is configured for exposing the substrate with the
illumination light via the projection optical system and the liquid
of the immersion area.
4. The exposure apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the nozzle
member includes a supply port of the liquid, a recovery port of the
liquid, and an opening through which the illumination light passes,
the recovery port being arranged around the opening and on the
lower surface side of the nozzle member, and wherein the apparatus
is configured for supplying liquid via the supply port to the
immersion area and for recovering the liquid of the immersion area
via the recovery port.
5. The exposure apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the grating
members are provided such that the nozzle member is positioned in
the opening around which the reflecting-type grating is
arranged.
6. The exposure apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising:
another frame member that is different from the frame member,
wherein the nozzle member is provided at the another frame
member.
7. The exposure apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the nozzle
member is provided at the frame member.
8. The exposure apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the holder
is arranged in a recess of an upper surface of the stage, and
wherein the stage supports the substrate in the recess such that a
surface of the substrate is substantially flush with the upper
surface.
9. The exposure apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the stage
includes a metrology member arranged in an opening of the upper
surface, the opening being different from the recess, and having a
fiducial mark that is detectable by the detection system.
10. A device manufacturing method comprising: exposing a substrate
by using the exposure apparatus according to claim 1; and
developing the exposed substrate.
11. An exposure method for exposing a substrate with illumination
light via a projection optical system, the method comprising:
moving a stage having a holder configured to hold the substrate,
such that a mark of the substrate is detected by a detection system
provided at a frame member configured to support the projection
optical system apart from the projection optical system, above a
base arranged below the projection optical system and the detection
system; moving the stage such that the substrate is exposed with
the illumination light via the projection optical system; obtaining
position information of the stage by an encoder system having a
plurality of heads, each of which being provided at the stage, and
each of which being configured to irradiate a beam onto one of a
plurality of grating members from below, each of which having a
reflecting-type grating, and each of which being provided at the
frame member such that the reflecting-type grating is arranged
substantially parallel with a predetermined plane perpendicular to
an optical axis of the projection optical system; and controlling
the movement of the stage based on the position information
obtained by the encoder system, wherein the grating members are
supported via a flexural member by the frame member.
12. The exposure method according to claim 11, wherein the holder
is arranged in a recess of an upper surface of the stage, and
wherein each of the heads is provided at a more outward position
than the upper surface.
13. The exposure method according to claim 11, wherein an immersion
area is formed with liquid so as to include an optical path of the
illumination light between the lens and the substrate by a nozzle
member provided to surround a lens, the lens being one of a
plurality of optical elements of the projection optical system and
being arranged closest to an image surface, wherein the substrate
is exposed with the illumination light via the projection optical
system and the liquid of the immersion area, and wherein the
grating members are arranged at a more outward position than the
nozzle member.
14. The exposure method according to claim 13, wherein liquid is
supplied to the immersion area via a supply port of the nozzle
member, and wherein the liquid of the immersion area is recovered
via a recovery port arranged on the lower surface side of the
nozzle member and around an opening through which the illumination
light passes.
15. The exposure method according to claim 14, wherein the holder
is arranged in a recess of an upper surface of the stage, and
wherein the substrate is held in the recess such that a surface of
the substrate is substantially flush with the upper surface of the
stage.
16. The exposure method according to claim 15, wherein a fiducial
mark of a metrology member arranged in an opening of the upper
surface of the stage, the opening being different from the recess,
is detected by the detection system.
17. A device manufacturing method comprising: exposing a substrate
by using the exposure method according to claim 11; and developing
the exposed substrate.
18. A manufacturing method of an exposure apparatus for exposing a
substrate with illumination light via a projection optical system,
the method comprising: providing a frame member for supporting the
projection optical system; providing a detection system provided at
the frame member apart from the projection optical system and
configured to detect a mark of the substrate; providing a plurality
of grating members, each of which having a reflecting-type grating,
and each of which being provided at the frame member such that the
reflecting-type grating is arranged substantially parallel with a
predetermined plane perpendicular to an optical axis of the
projection optical system; providing a base arranged below the
projection optical system and the detection system; providing a
stage arranged on the base, the stage having a holder configured to
hold the substrate and being movable below the grating members;
providing a drive system configured to move the stage so as to
arrange the substrate opposite to the projection optical system and
the detection system, respectively; providing an encoder system
having a plurality of heads provided at the stage, each of which
being configured to irradiate a beam onto the grating member from
below the grating member, so as to obtain position information of
the stage; and providing a controller configured to control the
drive system based on the position information obtained by the
encoder system, wherein the grating members are supported via a
flexural member by the frame member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.
12/219,110, filed Jul. 16, 2008, which claims priority to Japanese
Patent Application No. 2007-187649, filed Jul. 18, 2007 and to U.S.
provisional application No. 60/929,988, filed Jul. 20, 2007, the
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to: a measurement technology
and a stage technology that measure the position of a movable
member, e.g., a stage, that is for moving an object; an exposure
technology that uses the stage technology to expose the object; and
a device fabrication technology that uses the exposure technology
to fabricate a device, e.g., a semiconductor device or a liquid
crystal display device.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Lithography for fabricating devices (electronic devices,
microdevices, and the like), such as semiconductor devices and
liquid crystal display devices, employs an exposure apparatus
(e.g., a static exposure type--a full field exposure
type--projection exposure apparatus such as a stepper, or a
scanning exposure type projection exposure apparatus--scanning
exposure apparatus--such as a scanning stepper) that exposes a
wafer (or a glass plate and the like), which is coated with a
photoresist, by projecting a circuit pattern formed in a reticle
(or a photomask and the like) onto the wafer through a projection
optical system. In order to reduce positional distortion and
overlay error in a circuit pattern fabricated with such an exposure
apparatus, laser interferometers, which use frequency stabilized
lasers as light sources, are conventionally used to measure the
position of the stage that positions or moves the wafer and the
like.
[0006] With a laser interferometer, the refractive index of the gas
in the optical path, along which the laser light propagates,
fluctuates depending on, for example, the temperature, the
pressure, and the humidity of the gas, and these fluctuations in
turn cause fluctuations in the measurement values of the
interferometer (called interferometer turbulence). Accordingly,
with an exposure apparatus, it is the practice in the conventional
art to reduce interferometer turbulence by using a ventilation
system that ventilates temperature controlled gas to the optical
path of the measurement beam of the interferometer in order to
stabilize the temperature of the gas in that optical path. An
exposure apparatus has recently been proposed (e.g., referred to
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. H05-2883313,
and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.
H08-261718) that uses a tubular cover or the like to cover at least
part of the optical path of the measurement beam in order to
increase the temperature stability of the gas in the optical path
of the measurement beam of the laser interferometer.
[0007] As discussed above, it is necessary to take measures against
turbulence when using a laser interferometer. Nevertheless, when a
stage to be measured--particularly a wafer stage of a scanning type
exposure apparatus--is moved at a high speed in the vertical and
transverse directions, there is a problem in that the movement of
the stage causes irregular fluctuations in the gas flow, and
consequently interferometer turbulence remains to a certain
extent.
[0008] A purpose some aspects of the present invention is to
provide a measurement technology and a stage technology that can
mitigate the impact of fluctuations in the refractive index of
ambient gas, an exposure technology that can improve, for example,
stage positioning accuracy using the stage technology, and a device
fabrication technology that uses the exposure technology.
SUMMARY
[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a measuring method that measures a displacement of a
movable member with respect to a predetermined member, the method
comprising: providing a scale to one of the predetermined member
and the movable member and providing a plurality of detectors to
the other one, the detectors being capable of detecting the scale;
supporting the scale or the plurality of detectors provided to the
predetermined member with a support member, a coefficient of linear
thermal expansion of which is smaller than that of the movable
member; and measuring the displacement of the movable member based
on the detection results of the plurality of detectors.
[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a measuring method that measures a displacement of a
movable member, the method comprising: integrally supporting a
plurality of detectors with a support member; detecting a scale
provided to the movable member by means of the plurality of
detectors; and measuring the displacement of the movable member
based on the detection results of the plurality of detectors,
wherein the support member is attached to a base member that has a
coefficient of linear thermal expansion larger than that of the
support member via a plurality of flexural members, and the tip
parts of the flexural members can be displaced with respect to the
base member in directions along the surface of the scale.
[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a stage apparatus that is capable of positioning a
stage with respect to a predetermined member, the apparatus
comprising: a scale, which is provided to one of the stage and the
predetermined member; a plurality of detectors, which are provided
to another one of the stage and the predetermined member and detect
information related to the position of the scale; a support member
that supports the plurality of detectors, which are provided to the
stage or the predetermined member, and that has a coefficient of
linear thermal expansion that is smaller than that of the stage;
and a control apparatus that derives information related to a
displacement of the stage based on detection results of the
plurality of detectors.
[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there
is provided an exposure apparatus that radiates an exposure light
to a substrate and forms a prescribed pattern on the substrate, the
apparatus comprising: a stage apparatus according to an aspect of
the present invention, wherein the substrate is positioned by means
of the stage apparatus.
[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there
is provided an exposure apparatus that radiates an exposure light
to a substrate, which is held by a moveable stage, and forms a
prescribed pattern on the substrate, the apparatus comprising: a
scale, which is provided to the stage; a plurality of detectors,
which detect information related to the position of the scale; a
support member that integrally supports the plurality of detectors;
a base member, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of which
is larger than that of the support member; a coupling mechanism
that couples the support member to the base member in the state
wherein the support member can be displaced in directions along a
surface of the scale; and a control apparatus that derives
information related to the displacement of the stage based on
detection results of the plurality of detectors; wherein, the
coupling mechanism couples the support member and the base member,
and comprises a plurality of flexural members, the tip parts of
which can be displaced in directions along the surface of the
scale.
[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a device fabricating method that includes a
lithographic process, wherein an exposure apparatus according to an
aspect of the present invention is used in the lithographic
process.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a partial cutaway view that shows a schematic
configuration of an exposure apparatus according to a first
embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a plan view that shows a stage apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view that shows a measurement
frame of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a view that shows the layout of alignment systems
and position measurement encoders in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 5A includes is a plan view that shows a wafer
stage.
[0020] FIG. 5B is a partial cross sectional side view of the wafer
stage.
[0021] FIG. 6A is a plan view that shows a measurement stage.
[0022] FIG. 6B is a partial, cross sectional side view of the
measurement stage.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a block diagram that shows the principal
components of a control system of the exposure apparatus according
to a first embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 8A is a view for explaining the measurement of the
position of a wafer table within the XY plane, which is performed
by the plurality of encoders each of which comprises a plurality of
heads arranged in an array, and the handover of measurement values
between heads.
[0025] FIG. 8B is a view for explaining the measurement of the
position of a wafer table within the XY plane, which is performed
by the plurality of encoders each of which comprises a plurality of
heads arranged in an array, and the handover of measurement values
between heads.
[0026] FIG. 9A shows one example of the configuration of an
encoder.
[0027] FIG. 9B shows the case wherein a laser beam, which has a
cross sectional shape that extends longitudinally in the directions
of periodicity of a grating, is used as a detection beam.
[0028] FIG. 10A shows the state in which a first alignment shot is
measured.
[0029] FIG. 10B shows the state wherein a second alignment shot is
measured.
[0030] FIG. 10C shows one example of an array of alignment shots of
a wafer.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a flow chart that shows one example of the
measurement and exposure operations according to a first
embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a partial cutaway view that shows a schematic
configuration of the exposure apparatus according to a second
embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a partial cutaway view that shows a schematic
configuration of an exposure apparatus according to a third
embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 14 is an enlarged oblique view of the principal parts
of FIG. 13.
[0035] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the
operation in the case wherein the lengths of a measurement frame
and a head base in FIG. 13 change.
[0036] FIG. 16A shows a narrow rod shaped member.
[0037] FIG. 16B shows a flexural member wherein slotted parts are
formed.
[0038] FIG. 17 is a partial cutaway plan view that shows a coupling
method according to a modified example of FIG. 13.
[0039] FIG. 18 is a flow chart that shows one example of a
microdevice fabricating process.
[0040] FIG. 19 is a partial cutaway view that shows a schematic
configuration of the exposure apparatus according to another
embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 20 is a bottom view along A-A shown in FIG. 19.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
First Embodiment
[0042] The following explains a preferred first embodiment of the
present invention, referencing FIG. 1 through FIG. 11.
[0043] FIG. 1 schematically shows the configuration of an exposure
apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. The exposure
apparatus 100 is a step-and-scan-type scanning exposure apparatus,
i.e., a so-called scanner. With the present embodiment as discussed
below, a projection optical system PL is provided; furthermore, in
the explanation below, the Z axis lies in the directions that are
parallel to an optical axis AX of the projection optical system PL,
the Y axis lies in the directions within a plane that is orthogonal
thereto and wherein a reticle and a wafer are scanned relative to
one another, the X axis lies in the directions that are orthogonal
to the Z axis and the Y axis, and the .theta.x, the .theta.y, and
the .theta.z directions lie in rotational (inclined) directions
around the X axis, the Y axis and the Z axis, respectively.
[0044] The exposure apparatus 100 comprises: an illumination system
10; a reticle stage RST that holds a reticle R, which is
illuminated by illumination light (exposure light) IL for exposure
from the illumination system 10; a projection unit PU that
comprises the projection optical system PL, which projects the
illumination light IL that emerges from the reticle R onto a wafer
W; a stage apparatus 50, which comprises a wafer stage WST and a
measurement stage MST; and a control system, which controls these
constituent elements. The wafer W is mounted on the wafer stage
WST.
[0045] As disclosed in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent
Application Publication No. 2001-313250 (corresponding U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2003/0025890), the illumination system
10 comprises: a light source; and an illumination optical system
that has, for example, a luminous flux intensity uniformizing
optical system, which includes an optical integrator (e.g., a
fly-eye lens, a rod integrator, i.e., an internal reflection type
integrator, and a dioptric element), and a reticle blind (none of
which are shown). The illumination system 10 illuminates a slit
shaped illumination area IAR, which is defined by a reticle blind,
on the reticle R with the illumination light IL at a substantially
uniform luminous flux intensity. In one example, ArF excimer laser
light (193 nm wavelength) is used as the illumination light IL.
Furthermore, examples of light sources that can be used as the
illumination light include KrF excimer laser light (248 nm
wavelength), F.sub.2 laser light (157 nm wavelength), the higher
harmonics of a YAG laser, the higher harmonics of a solid state
laser (e.g., a semiconductor laser), and the bright lines (e.g.,
the i line) of a mercury lamp.
[0046] The reticle R, the pattern surface (lower surface) of which
has a circuit pattern or the like formed therein, is fixed to the
reticle stage RST by, for example, vacuum chucking. A reticle stage
drive system 11 (FIG. 7) that includes, for example, linear motors
is capable of driving the reticle stage RST finely within an XY
plane and at a specified scanning speed in scanning directions (Y
directions).
[0047] Reticle interferometers 116, which comprise laser
interferometers, continuously detect the position (including
rotation in the .theta.z directions) of the reticle stage RST (FIG.
1) in its plane of motion via movable mirrors 15 (which may be
reflecting surfaces that are formed by mirror polishing end
surfaces of the stage) with a resolving power of, for example,
approximately 0.5-0.1 nm. The measurement values of the reticle
interferometers 116 are sent to a main control apparatus 20 (FIG.
7). The main control apparatus 20 calculates the position of the
reticle stage RST in at least the X, the Y, and the .theta.z
directions based on the measurement values of the reticle
interferometers 116 and controls the position and velocity of the
reticle stage RST by controlling the reticle stage drive part 11
based on the calculation results. Furthermore, the reticle
interferometers 116 may also be capable of measuring the position
of the reticle stage RST in at least one of the Z, the .theta.x,
and the .theta.y directions.
[0048] In FIG. 1, the projection unit PU, which is disposed below
the reticle stage RST, includes the projection optical system PL,
which comprises a lens barrel 40 and a plurality of optical
elements that are held therein with prescribed positional
relationships. For example, a dioptric system that includes a
plurality of lens elements arrayed along the optical axis AX is
used as the projection optical system PL. The projection optical
system PL is, for example, double telecentric, and has a prescribed
projection magnification .beta. (e.g., a reduction magnification of
1:4, 1:5, or 1:8). When the illumination system 10 illuminates the
illumination area IAR with the illumination light IL, the
illumination light IL that passes through the reticle R travels
through the projection optical system PL, and thereby an image of
the reticle R circuit pattern within the illumination area IAR is
formed in an exposure area IA (an area that is conjugate to the
illumination area IAR) on the wafer W, the front surface of which
is coated with resist (a photosensitive agent).
[0049] Furthermore, with the exposure apparatus 100, exposures are
performed wherein an immersion method is used. In this case, a
catadioptric system that includes mirrors and lenses may be used as
the projection optical system PL in order to avoid increasing the
size thereof. Furthermore, in addition to a photosensitive layer, a
protective film (a topcoat film) may be formed on the wafer W that
protects, for example, the wafer or the photosensitive layer.
[0050] In addition, in order to perform an exposure wherein the
liquid immersion method is used, the exposure apparatus 100 is
provided with a nozzle unit 32, which constitutes part of a local
liquid immersion apparatus, that is disposed so that it surrounds
the circumference of a lower end part of the lens barrel 40 that
holds an objective 191, which is the optical element of the
plurality of optical elements that constitute the projection
optical system PL that is most on the image plane side (wafer W
side) thereof.
[0051] In FIG. 1, the nozzle unit 32 has a supply port, which is
capable of supplying liquid Lq for exposure, and a recovery port,
which is capable of recovering the liquid Lq. A porous member
(mesh) is disposed in the recovery port. The lower surface of the
nozzle unit, which is capable of opposing the front surface of the
wafer W, includes: a lower surface of the porous member thereof;
and a flat surface that is disposed so that it surrounds an opening
through which the illumination light IL passes. In addition, the
supply port is connected to a liquid supply apparatus 186 (refer to
FIG. 7), which is capable of feeding the liquid Lq, via a supply
passageway, which is formed in the interior of the nozzle unit 32,
and a supply pipe 31A. The recovery port is connected to a liquid
recovery apparatus 189 (refer to FIG. 7), which is capable of
recovering at least the liquid Lq, via a recovery passageway, which
is formed in the interior of the nozzle unit 32, and a recovery
pipe 31B.
[0052] The liquid supply apparatus 186 comprises: a tank of liquid;
a pressure pump; a temperature control apparatus; and a flow
control valve, which turns the supply of the liquid to the supply
pipe 31A on and off; furthermore, the liquid supply apparatus 186
is capable of feeding clean, temperature adjusted liquid Lq for
exposure. The liquid recovery apparatus 189 comprises: a tank of
liquid; a suction pump; and a flow control valve that controls the
recovery of the liquid Lq via the recovery pipe 31B; furthermore,
the liquid recovery apparatus 189 is capable of recovering the
liquid Lq. Furthermore, the tanks of liquid, the pressure (suction)
pumps, the temperature control apparatuses, the control valves, and
the like do not all necessarily have to be provided by the exposure
apparatus 100; for example, at least some of these constituent
elements can be replaced by a facility at, for example, the plant
where the exposure apparatus 100 is installed.
[0053] The main control apparatus 20 controls the operation of the
liquid supply apparatus 186 and the operation of the liquid
recovery apparatus 189 (FIG. 7). The liquid Lq for exposure that is
fed from the liquid supply apparatus 186 (FIG. 7) flows through the
supply pipe 31A and the supply passageway of the nozzle unit 32
(FIG. 1), and is then supplied to an optical path space of the
illumination light IL via the supply port. In addition, the liquid
Lq that is recovered via the recovery port by driving the liquid
recovery apparatus 189 (FIG. 7) flows through the recovery
passageway of the nozzle unit 32 (FIG. 1) and is then recovered by
the liquid recovery apparatus 189 via the recovery pipe 31B. The
main control apparatus 20 (FIG. 7) performs the operation wherein
the nozzle unit 32 supplies the liquid Lq via the supply port and
the operation wherein the nozzle unit 32 recovers the liquid Lq via
the recovery port in parallel, and thereby forms an immersion space
of the liquid Lq so that an immersion area 14 (refer to FIG. 3),
which includes the optical path space of the illumination light IL
between the objective 191 and the wafer W (FIG. 1), is filled with
the liquid Lq.
[0054] In the present embodiment, pure water (water), through which
ArF excimer laser light (light with a wavelength of 193 nm)
transmits, is used as the liquid Lq for exposure. Pure water is
advantageous in that it can be easily obtained in large quantities
at, for example, semiconductor fabrication plants, and does not
adversely affect the photoresist on the wafer, the optical lenses,
and the like. The refractive index n of water with respect to the
ArF excimer laser light is substantially 1.44. The wavelength of
the illumination light IL in water is shortened to approximately
134 nm (193 nm.times.1/n), which improves resolution.
[0055] As can be understood from the explanation above, in the
present embodiment, the local liquid immersion apparatus comprises
the nozzle unit 32, the liquid supply apparatus 186, the liquid
recovery apparatus 189, as well as the supply pipe 31A and the
recovery pipe 31B for the liquid Lq. Furthermore, part of the local
liquid immersion apparatus, e.g., at least the nozzle unit 32, may
be supported so that it is suspended from a main frame (including a
base plate that supports the lens barrel as discussed above) that
holds the projection unit PU, and may be provided to a frame member
that is separate from the main frame. In the present embodiment,
the nozzle unit 32 is provided via a coupling member (not shown) to
a measurement frame 21, which is supported so that it is suspended
independently of the projection unit PU. In this case, the
projection unit PU does not have to be supported so that it is
suspended.
[0056] Furthermore, even if the measurement stage MST is positioned
below the projection unit PU (FIG. 1), it is still possible to fill
the space between a measurement table MTB (discussed below) and the
objective 191 with water in the same manner as mentioned above.
Furthermore, in the explanation above, one liquid supply pipe
(nozzle) and one liquid recovery pipe (nozzle) are provided as an
example, but the present invention is not limited thereto; for
example, a configuration may be adopted that comprises numerous
nozzles, as disclosed in, for example, PCT International
Publication WO99/49504--provided that such nozzles can be laid out
while considering their relationships with surrounding members. In
other words, any configuration may be adopted as long as it is
possible to supply the liquid to the space between the wafer W and
the lowest end optical member (objective) 191 that constitutes the
projection optical system PL. For example, the liquid immersion
mechanism disclosed in PCT International Publication WO 2004/053955
or the liquid immersion mechanism disclosed in European Patent
Application Publication No. 1,420,298 can be adapted to the
exposure apparatus of the present embodiment.
[0057] Returning to FIG. 1, the stage apparatus 50 comprises: the
wafer stage WST and the measurement stage MST, which are disposed
above a base plate 12; an interferometer system 118 (refer to FIG.
7) that includes Y axis interferometers 16, 18, which measure the
positions of the stages WST, MST; an encoder system (discussed
below), which is used in the measurement of the position of the
wafer stage WST when, for example, an exposure is to be performed;
and a stage drive system 124 (refer to FIG. 7) that drives the
stages WST, MST and a Z and leveling mechanism (discussed
below).
[0058] A plurality of noncontact bearings (not shown), e.g., air
pads that constitute vacuum primed aerostatic bearings, are
provided to the bottom surfaces of the wafer stage WST and the
measurement stage MST, and the static pressure of the pressurized
air that is blown out from the air pads toward the upper surface of
the base plate 12 noncontactually supports the wafer stage WST and
the measurement stage MST above the base plate 12 with a clearance
of approximately several microns. In addition, the stage drive
system 124 (FIG. 7) can drive the stages WST, MST independently in
the two-dimensional directions--in the Y directions and the X
directions.
[0059] In further detail, as shown in the plan view of FIG. 2, two
Y axis stators 86, 87, which extend in the Y directions, are
disposed on a floor surface on opposite sides of the base plate 12
so that the base plate 12 is interposed therebetween. Each of the Y
axis stators 86, 87 comprises a magnetic pole unit with a built-in
permanent magnet group that comprises multiple sets of north pole
magnets and south pole magnets that are disposed alternately and at
prescribed intervals in, for example, the Y directions. Two Y axis
sliders 82, 84 and two Y axis sliders 83, 85 are provided to the Y
axis stators 86, 87, respectively, in noncontactually engaged
states. Namely, a total of four Y axis sliders 82, 84, 83, 85 are
in states wherein they are inserted in the interior spaces of the Y
axis stators 86, 87, which are U shaped in the XZ cross sectional
plane, and are noncontactually supported by the corresponding Y
axis stators 86, 87 via air pads (not shown) with a clearance of,
for example, approximately several microns. Each of the Y axis
sliders 82, 84, 83, 85 comprises an armature coil unit with
built-in armature coils that are disposed at prescribed intervals
in, for example, the Y directions. Namely, in the present
embodiment, the Y axis sliders 82, 84, each of which comprises an
armature unit, and the Y axis stator 86, which comprises a magnetic
pole unit, constitute moving coil type Y axis linear motors.
Likewise, the Y axis sliders 83, 85 and the Y axis stator 87
constitute moving coil type Y axis linear motors. Hereinbelow, the
abovementioned four Y axis linear motors are assigned the same
symbols as the sliders 82, 84, 83, 85, and are properly called the
Y axis linear motors 82, 84, 83, 85.
[0060] Of the four Y axis linear motors mentioned above, the
sliders 82, 83 of the two Y axis linear motors 82, 83 are fixed to
one end and another end, respectively, of an X axis stator 80,
which extends in the X directions, in the longitudinal directions.
In addition, the sliders 84, 85 of the remaining two Y axis linear
motors 84, 85 are fixed to one end and another end, respectively of
an X axis stator 81, which extends in the X directions.
Accordingly, the two pairs of Y axis linear motors 82, 83, 84, 85,
one pair for each of the X axis stators 80, 81, drive the X axis
stators 80, 81 along the Y axis.
[0061] Each of the X axis stators 80, 81 comprises an armature coil
unit that has built-in armature coils, which are disposed at
prescribed intervals in, for example, the X directions. The X axis
stator 81 is provided in the state wherein it is inserted in an
opening (not shown) that is formed in a stage main body 91 (refer
to FIG. 1) that constitutes part of the wafer stage WST. A magnetic
pole unit, which comprises a permanent magnet group that comprises
multiple sets of north pole magnets and south pole magnets disposed
alternately at prescribed intervals in, for example, the X
directions, is provided in the inner part of the opening of the
substrate stage 91. This magnetic pole unit and the X axis stator
81 constitute a moving magnet type X axis linear motor that drives
the stage main body 91 in the X directions. Likewise, the X axis
stator 80 is provided in the state wherein it is inserted in an
opening that is formed in a stage main body 92 that constitutes the
measurement stage MST. A magnetic pole unit that is similar to the
one on the wafer stage WST side (the stage main body 91 side) is
provided inside the abovementioned opening of the stage main body
92. This magnetic pole unit and the X axis stator 80 constitute a
moving magnet type X axis linear motor that drives the measurement
stage MST in the X directions.
[0062] In the present embodiment, a main control apparatus 20 shown
in FIG. 7 controls each of the abovementioned linear motors that
constitute the stage drive system 124. Furthermore, the linear
motors are not limited to either moving magnet types or moving coil
types, and some other types may be appropriately selected as
needed. Furthermore, it is possible to control yawing (rotation in
the .theta.z directions) of the wafer stage WST (or the measurement
stage MST) by making the thrust that is generated by each of the
two Y axis linear motors 84, 85 (or 82, 83) slightly different.
[0063] The wafer stage WST comprises the stage main body 91
discussed above and a wafer table WTB, which is mounted on the
stage main body 91 via the Z and leveling mechanism (e.g., a voice
coil motor; not shown), that is finely driven relative to the stage
main body 91 in the Z, the .theta.x, and the .theta.y
directions.
[0064] A wafer holder (not shown), which holds the wafer W by
vacuum chucking or the like, is provided on the wafer table WTB.
The wafer holder may be formed integrally with the wafer table WTB;
however, in the present embodiment, the wafer holder and the wafer
table WTB are configured separately, e.g., the wafer holder is
fixed to a recessed part of the wafer table WTB by vacuum chucking.
In addition, a plate (liquid repellent plate) 28 is provided to the
upper surface of the wafer table WTB and has a front surface
(liquid repellent surface) that is substantially flush with the
front surface of the wafer W that is mounted on the wafer holder
and that has been treated so that it liquid repellent with respect
to the liquid Lq; furthermore, the plate 28 has a rectangular
external shape (contour); in addition, a circular opening that is
larger than the wafer holder (the wafer mounting area) is formed at
a center part of the plate 28. The plate 28 is made of a material
that has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, e.g., glass, a
glass ceramic, or a ceramic (Zerodur, which is the name of a
product made by Schott Nippon K.K., Al.sub.2O.sub.3, TiC, or the
like); in addition, a liquid repellent film that is made of, for
example, a fluororesin material, a fluorine based resin material
such as polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon.TM.), an acrylic based
resin material, or a silicone based resin material is formed on the
front surface of the plate 28.
[0065] Furthermore, the plate 28 comprises: a first liquid
repellent area 28a, which has a rectangular external shape
(contour) and surrounds the circular opening as shown in the plan
view of the wafer table WTB (the wafer stage WST) in FIG. 5A; and a
rectangular frame shaped (annular) second liquid repellent area
28b, which is disposed around the first liquid repellent area 28a.
At least part of the immersion area 14 (refer to FIG. 3), which
juts out from the front surface of the wafer when, for example, an
exposure operation is performed, is formed on the first liquid
repellent area 28a, and scales for the encoder system, which are
discussed below, are formed on the second liquid repellent area
28b. Furthermore, at least part of the front surface of the plate
28 may not be flush with the front surface of the wafer, i.e., it
may be at a different height. In addition, the plate 28 may be a
single plate; however, in the present embodiment, the plate 28
comprises a plurality of plates, e.g., a combination of first and
second liquid repellent areas 28a, 28b and corresponding first and
second liquid repellent plates. Furthermore, the liquid Lq in the
present embodiment is pure water; consequently, in one example, the
repellent areas 28a, 28b are each provided with a water repellent
coat.
[0066] In this case, the illumination light IL is radiated to the
inner side first liquid repellent area 28a, but is virtually not
radiated to the outer side second liquid repellent area 28b. In
consideration of this point, in the present embodiment, a water
repellent coat that is sufficiently resistant to the illumination
light IL (in this case, vacuum ultraviolet region light) is applied
to the front surface of the first liquid repellent area 28a, while
a water repellent coat of inferior resistance with respect to the
illumination light IL compared with that of the first liquid
repellent area 28a is applied to the front surface of the second
liquid repellent area 28b.
[0067] In addition, as can be seen in FIG. 5A, an oblong notch is
formed on the end part of the first liquid repellent area 28a on
the +Y direction side and at the center part of the first liquid
repellent area 28a in the X directions; furthermore, a measurement
plate 30 is embedded in the oblong space (in the notch), which is
surrounded by the notch and the second liquid repellent area 28b. A
fiducial mark FM is formed at the center of the measurement plate
30 in the longitudinal directions (along a center line LL of the
wafer table WTB), and two slit patterns (slit shaped measurement
patterns) SL for aerial image measurement, which are disposed
symmetrically with respect to the center of the fiducial mark, are
formed on one side and another side of the fiducial mark in the X
directions. Examples of patterns that can be used for each of the
slit patterns SL include: an L-shaped slit pattern, the sides of
which extend in the X and Y directions; and two linear slit
patterns that extend in the X and Y directions, respectively.
[0068] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5B, an L-shaped casing,
wherein a light transmitting system 36 is housed that comprises an
optical system that includes an objective, a mirror, and a relay
lens, is installed in a partially buried state inside the wafer
stage WST below the abovementioned slit patterns SL so that it
passes through part of the interior of the stage main body 91 from
the wafer table WTB. Although not shown, two light transmitting
systems 36 are provided that correspond to the abovementioned two
aerial image measurement slit patterns SL. Each of the light
transmitting systems 36 guides the illumination light IL that
transmits through the corresponding aerial image measurement slit
pattern SL along an L-shaped path and then emits the illumination
light IL in the Y direction.
[0069] Furthermore, numerous grating lines 37, 38 are formed
directly in the upper surface of the second liquid repellent area
28b along the four sides thereof with a prescribed pitch. In
greater detail, Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 are formed in the
areas that are on opposite sides of the second liquid repellent
area 28b in the X directions (on both the left and right sides in
FIG. 5A). Each of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 comprises a
reflecting type grating (e.g., a phase diffraction grating), which
is disposed with its direction of periodicity in the Y directions,
wherein the grating lines 38 are formed in directions (Y
directions) that are parallel to the Y axis at a prescribed pitch
and are disposed so that their longitudinal directions are in the X
directions.
[0070] Similarly, X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 are formed in the
areas that are on opposite sides of the second liquid repellent
area 28b in the Y directions (on both the upper and lower sides in
FIG. 5A). Each of the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 comprises a
reflecting type grating (e.g., a phase diffraction grating), which
is disposed with its direction of periodicity in the X directions,
wherein the grating lines 37 are formed in directions (X
directions) that are parallel to the X axis at a prescribed pitch
and are disposed so that their longitudinal directions are in the Y
directions.
[0071] A scale--wherein a reflecting type diffraction grating is
formed as, for example, a hologram on the front surface of the
second liquid repellent area 28b--is used for each of the scales
39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2, 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2. In this case, a
grating, which comprises narrow slits, grooves, or the like, is
engraved as graduations with a prescribed spacing (a pitch) in each
of the scales. The types of diffraction gratings that are used in
the scales are not limited; for example, grooves may be formed
mechanically; in addition, interference fringes may be formed on,
for example, a photosensitive resin by printing the interference
fringes thereon. However, each of the scales is created by
engraving the abovementioned diffraction grating graduations on,
for example, a thin, plate shaped glass with a pitch of 138 nm to 4
.mu.m, e.g., a 1-.mu.m pitch. Each of these scales is covered by
the liquid repellent film (water repellent film) discussed above.
Furthermore, for the sake of convenience in the drawing, the pitch
of each the gratings shown in FIG. 5A is much larger than the
actual pitch. The same applies to other drawings as well.
[0072] Thus, in the present embodiment, the second liquid repellent
area 28b itself comprises scales, and therefore a glass plate with
a low coefficient of thermal expansion is used as the material of
the second liquid repellent area 28b. However, the present
invention is not limited thereto; for example, a scale member that
comprises a glass plate with a low coefficient of thermal expansion
and wherein gratings are formed may be fixed to the upper surface
of the wafer table WTB by, for example, a leaf spring (or by vacuum
chucking) so that shrinkage and expansion does not occur locally;
in such a case, the plate 28 may be substituted by a water
repellent plate, the entire surface of which is coated with the
same water repellent coat.
[0073] The -Y end surface and the -X end surface of the wafer table
WTB are each mirror polished, thereby forming reflecting surfaces
17a, 17b, as shown in FIG. 2. The Y axis interferometer 16 and an X
axis interferometer 126 (refer to FIG. 2) of the interferometer
system 118 (refer to FIG. 7) project interferometer beams (length
measuring beams) to the reflecting surfaces 17a, 17b, respectively,
and receive the beams reflected thereby. Furthermore, the
interferometers 16, 126 measure the displacements of the reflecting
surfaces from reference positions (e.g., reference mirrors that are
disposed on the side surfaces of the projection unit PU), i.e., the
position of the wafer stage WST within the XY plane; furthermore,
those measurement values are supplied to the main control apparatus
20. In the present embodiment, multiaxis interferometers, each of
which has a plurality of optical axes, are used as the Y axis
interferometer 16 and the X axis interferometer 126; furthermore,
based on the measurement values of the interferometers 16, 126, the
main control apparatus 20 can measure the position of the wafer
table WTB in the X and Y directions and its rotation in the
.theta.x directions (pitching), its rotation in the .theta.y
directions (rolling), and its rotation in the .theta.z directions
(yawing).
[0074] However, in the present embodiment, the position (including
the rotation in the .theta.z directions) of the wafer stage WST
(the wafer table WTB) within the XY plane is measured principally
by the encoder system (discussed below) that includes, for example,
the Y scales and the X scales, which were discussed above;
furthermore, the measurement values of the interferometers 16, 126
are used supplementarily when, for example, long-term fluctuations
(e.g., caused by scale deformation over the course of time) in the
measurement values of the encoder system are corrected
(calibrated). In addition, the Y axis interferometer 16 is used in
the measurement of, for example, the position of the wafer table
WTB in the Y directions in the vicinity of the unloading position
(discussed below) and the loading position, which are the wafer
exchange positions. In addition, at least one of the measurements
of the interferometer system 118, i.e., at least one of the
positions in the directions of five degrees of freedom (the X, the
Y, the .theta.x, the .theta.y, and the .theta.z directions), is
used in the movement of the wafer stage WST, for example, between
the loading operation and the alignment operation and/or between
the exposure operation and the unloading operation.
[0075] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, which is a plan view of the
measurement frame 21 in FIG. 1, the Y axis interferometer 16 and
the X axis interferometer 126 of the interferometer system 118 as
well as the Y axis interferometer 18 and a X axis interferometer
130 for the measurement stage MST (discussed below) are supported
by the bottom surface of the measurement frame 21 via support
members 24A, 24C, 24B, 24D. Nevertheless, the Y axis
interferometers 16, 18 and the X axis interferometers 126, 130 may
be provided either integrally with the projection unit PU, which is
supported so that it is suspended as discussed above, or to the
main frame that holds the projection unit PU. In these cases, each
of the interferometers 16, 18, 126, 130 may include just an
interferometer optical system that splits and combines the length
measuring beam that travel toward the stages and the reference beam
that travel toward the reference mirrors; in addition, a receiver
of each of the interferometers 16, 18, 126, 130 (photoelectric
detector) that receives the interference light produced by the
interference between the length measuring beam and the reference
beam may be supported by a column (not shown).
[0076] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the wafer stage WST
includes the stage main body 91, which is capable of moving freely
within the XY plane, and the wafer table WTB, which is mounted on
the stage main body 91 and is capable of finely moving relative to
the stage main body 91 in the Z, the .theta.x, and the .theta.y
directions, but the present invention is not limited thereto; of
course, a single stage that is capable of moving with six degrees
of freedom may be used as the wafer stage WST. In addition, instead
of the reflecting surfaces 17a, 17b, movable mirrors that comprise
plane mirrors may be provided to the wafer table WTB. Furthermore,
the positions at which the reference mirrors (fiducial surfaces)
are disposed are not limited to the projection unit PU, and the
position of the wafer stage WST does not necessarily have to be
measured using reference mirrors.
[0077] In addition, in the present embodiment, the position of the
wafer stage WST, which is measured by the interferometer system
118, is not used in, for example, the exposure operation and the
alignment operation discussed below, but rather it is used
principally in, for example, the calibration operation (i.e.,
calibration of the measurement values) performed by the encoder
system; however, the measurement information from the
interferometer system 118 (at least one of the positions in the
directions of five degrees of freedom) may be used in, for example,
the exposure operation and/or the alignment operation. In the
present embodiment, the encoder system measures the position of the
wafer stage WST in the directions of three degrees of freedom,
i.e., the X axial, the Y axial, and the .theta.z directions.
Accordingly, of the measurement information from the interferometer
system 118, the exposure operation or the like may use just the
position in directions (e.g., the .theta.x directions and/or the
.theta.y directions) that differ from the directions (the X, the Y,
and the .theta.z directions) in which the position of the wafer
stage WST is measured by the encoder system, or the position in the
directions that are the same as the directions measured by the
encoder system (i.e., at least one of the X directions, the Y
directions, and the .theta.z directions) in addition to the
position in the abovementioned different directions. In addition,
the interferometer system 118 may be capable of measuring the
position of the wafer stage WST in the Z directions. In this case,
the position in the Z directions may be used in, for example, the
exposure operation.
[0078] The measurement stage MST in FIG. 1 is configured so that
the flat, plate shaped measurement table MTB is fixed to the stage
main body 92. Various measuring members are provided to the
measurement table MTB and the stage main body 92. As shown in, for
example, FIG. 2 and FIG. 6A, an illumination intensity
nonuniformity sensor 94, which has a pin hole shaped light
receiving part, an aerial image measuring instrument 96, which
measures an aerial image (projected image) of the pattern that is
projected by the projection optical system PL, a wavefront
aberration measuring instrument 98, and the like are used as the
measuring members.
[0079] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an immersion
exposure is performed wherein the wafer W is exposed with the
illumination light IL through the projection optical system PL and
the liquid (water) Lq; correspondingly, with the abovementioned
illumination intensity nonuniformity sensor 94 (and a luminous flux
intensity monitor), the aerial image measuring instrument 96, and
the wavefront aberration measuring instrument 98, which are used in
the measurements wherein the illumination light IL is used, the
illumination light IL is received through the projection optical
system PL and water.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 6B, a frame shaped mounting member 42 is
fixed to an end surface on the -Y direction side of the stage main
body 92 of the measurement stage MST. In addition, two light
receiving systems 44, which are disposed so that they can oppose
the two light transmitting systems 36 discussed above, one of which
is shown in FIG. 5B, are fixed to an end surface on the -Y
direction side of the stage main body 92 in the vicinity of the
center position inside the opening of the mounting member 42 in the
X directions. Each of the light receiving systems 44 comprises: an
optical system, such as a relay lens; a light receiving device,
e.g., a photomultiplier tube; and a casing that houses these
elements. As can be understood from FIG. 5B, FIG. 6B, and the
explanation up to this point, in the present embodiment, the
illumination light IL that transmits through each of the slit
patterns SL of the measurement plate 30 is guided by the
corresponding light transmitting system 36 (discussed above), and
is received by the light receiving device of the corresponding
light receiving system 44 in the state wherein the wafer stage WST
and the measurement stage MST are proximate within a prescribed
distance in the Y directions (or the state wherein they contact one
another). Namely, the measurement plate 30, the light transmitting
systems 36, and the light receiving systems 44 constitute an aerial
image measuring apparatus 45 (refer to FIG. 7), which is similar to
the one disclosed in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent
Application Publication No. 2002-14005 (corresponding U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2002/0041377).
[0081] A confidential bar (hereinbelow, abbreviated as "CD bar")
46, which serves as a fiducial member and comprises a rod shaped
member that is rectangular in a cross section, is provided on the
mounting member 42 in FIG. 6B so that it extends in the X
directions. The CD bar 46 has a fully kinematic mount structure and
is supported kinematically on the measurement stage MST.
[0082] The CD bar 46 is the standard (the measurement reference),
and consequently a glass ceramic with a low coefficient of thermal
expansion, e.g., Zerodur (the name of a product made by Schott
Nippon K.K.), is used as the material of the CD bar 46. The upper
surface (front surface) of the CD bar 46 is made with a high degree
of flatness--on the same order as that of a so-called fiducial
plane parallel plate. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6A, a reference
grating (e.g., diffraction grating) 52 with a direction of
periodicity in the Y directions is formed in the vicinity of the
end part of the CD bar 46 on one side and on another side in the
longitudinal directions. The two reference gratings 52 are formed
so that they are spaced apart by a prescribed distance (L) at the
center of the CD bar 46 in the X directions, i.e., symmetric with
respect to a center line CL discussed above.
[0083] In addition, a plurality of fiducial marks M, which is
disposed as shown in FIG. 6A, is formed in the upper surface of the
CD bar 46. The multiple fiducial marks M are formed in an array of
three rows in the Y directions with identical pitch; furthermore,
the fiducial marks M are formed so that adjacent rows are shifted
from one another in the X directions by a prescribed distance. A
two-dimensional mark with dimensions that can be detected by a
primary alignment system and secondary alignment systems (discussed
below) is used for each of the fiducial marks M. The shape
(configuration) of each of the fiducial marks M may be different
than that of the fiducial mark FM in FIG. 5A discussed above;
however, in the present embodiment, the fiducial marks M and the
fiducial mark FM have identical configurations, and the alignment
marks of the wafer W are likewise identically configured.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the front surface of the CD
bar 46 and the front surface of the measurement table MTB (which
may include the measuring members discussed above) are each covered
by a liquid repellent film (water repellent film).
[0084] As shown in FIG. 2, reflecting surfaces 19a, 19b are formed
on the +Y end surface and the -X end surface, respectively, of the
measurement table MTB, the same as with the wafer table WTB
discussed above. The Y axis interferometer 18 and the X axis
interferometer 130 of the interferometer system 118 (refer to FIG.
7) measure the displacement of each of the reflecting surfaces from
a corresponding reference position information, i.e., the position
of the measurement stage MST (including, for example, at least the
position informations in the X and the Y directions and the
rotation information in the .theta.z directions), by projecting
interferometer beams (length measuring beams) to the reflecting
surfaces 19a, 19b and receiving the beams reflected thereby, and
supply these measurement values to the main control apparatus
20.
[0085] Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 2, stopper mechanisms 48A,
48B are provided to both end parts of the X axis stators 81, 80 in
the X directions. The stopper mechanisms 48A, 48B comprise: shock
absorbers 47A, 47B, which are provided to the X axis stator 81 and
serve as cushioning apparatuses that comprise, for example, oil
dampers; openings 51A, 51B, which are provided to the X axis stator
80 at positions that oppose the shock absorbers 47A, 47B; and
shutters 49A, 49B that open and close the openings 51A, 51B. The
open/close states of the openings 51A, 51B, which are opened and
closed by the shutters 49A, 49B, are detected by open/close sensors
101 (refer to FIG. 7), which are provided in the vicinities of the
shutters 49A, 49B; in addition, the detection results are sent to
the main control apparatus 20.
[0086] The operation of the stopper mechanisms 48A, 48B will now be
explained, taking the stopper mechanism 48A as a representative
example.
[0087] In FIG. 2, if the X axis stator 81 and the X axis stator 80
approach one another in the state wherein the shutter 49A covers
the opening 51A, then the shock absorber 47A and the shutter 49A
contact one another, and thereby the X axis stators 80, 81 cannot
approach one another any further. However, if the X axis stators
81, 80 approach one another in the state wherein the shutter 49A is
open and in turn the opening 51A is open, then at least part of a
tip part of the shock absorber 47A can be inserted into the opening
51A, and thereby the X axis stators 81, 80 can be made to approach
one another. As a result, it is possible to make the wafer table
WTB and the measurement table MTB (the CD bar 46) contact one
another (or to draw near so that they are within a distance of
approximately 300 .mu.m).
[0088] In FIG. 2, spacing sensors 43A, 43C and collision sensors
43B, 43D are provided on both end parts of the X axis stator 80 on
the -Y side, and plate shaped members 41A, 41B, each of which is
long and thin in the Y directions, are provided to opposite end
parts of the X axis stator 81 on the +Y side so that they project
therefrom. The spacing sensors 43A, 43C comprise, for example,
light transmissive photosensors (e.g., sensors that consist of LED
phototransistors); in addition, when the X axis stator 80 and the X
axis stator 81 approach one another, the plate shaped member 41A
enters the spacing sensor 43A, which reduces the amount of light
received and makes it possible to detect the fact that the spacing
between the X axis stators 80, 81 has fallen below the prescribed
distance.
[0089] Similar to the spacing sensors 43A, 43C, the collision
sensors 43B, 43D are photoelectric sensors and are disposed on the
far side thereof. With the collision sensors 43B, 43D, at the point
that the X axis stators 81, 80 further approach one another and the
wafer table WTB and the CD bar 46 (the measurement table MTB) are
in contact (or at a point at which they approach one another within
a distance of approximately 300 .mu.m), the upper half of the plate
shaped member 41A is positioned between the sensors, and
consequently the main control apparatus 20 can detect the fact that
the tables are in contact (or have approached one another within a
distance of approximately 300 .mu.m) by detecting the fact that the
amount of light received by those sensors is zero.
[0090] Although not shown in FIG. 1 in order to avoid complicating
the drawing, with the exposure apparatus 100 in the present
embodiment, a primary alignment system AL1 is actually disposed as
shown in FIG. 4; here, the primary alignment system AL1 has a
center of detection that is along a straight line LV, which is
parallel to the Y axis and passes through the center of the
projection unit PU (i.e., the optical axis AX of the projection
optical system PL; in the present embodiment, the projection unit
PU also coincides with the center of the exposure area IA discussed
above), and that is at a position that is spaced apart from the
optical axis AX on the -Y side by a prescribed distance. The
primary alignment system AL1 is fixed to the measurement frame 21
(refer to FIG. 1) via a support member 54. Secondary alignment
systems AL2.sub.1, AL2.sub.2 and secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.3, AL2.sub.4 are provided on one side and another side,
respectively, of the primary alignment system AL1 in the X
directions so that the primary alignment system AL1 is interposed
therebetween; furthermore, the detection centers of the secondary
alignment systems AL2.sub.1, AL2.sub.2 and the secondary alignment
systems AL2.sub.3, AL2.sub.4 are disposed substantially
symmetrically with respect to the straight line LV. Namely, the
detection centers of the five alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 are disposed at different positions in the X
directions, i.e., they are disposed along the X directions.
[0091] As shown representatively for the secondary alignment system
AL2.sub.4, each of the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.n
(n=1-4) is fixed to a tip (pivoting end) of a corresponding arm
56.sub.n (n=1-4), which is capable of pivoting around a center of
rotation O clockwise and counterclockwise in FIG. 4 within a
prescribed angular range. In the present embodiment, part of each
of the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.n (for example,
including at least the optical system that radiates alignment light
to a detection area and that guides light emitted from a target
mark within the detection area to the light receiving device) is
fixed to the corresponding arm 56.sub.n, and the remaining part is
provided to the measurement frame 21. Each of the secondary
alignment systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 is pivoted around the center
of rotation O and its X position is thereby adjusted. Namely, the
detection areas (and the detection centers) of the secondary
alignment systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 are independently moveable in
the X directions. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the X
position of each of the secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 is adjusted by the pivoting of the
corresponding arm, but the present invention is not limited
thereto; for example, a drive mechanism may be provided that drives
the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 reciprocatively
in the X directions. In addition, at least one of the secondary
alignment systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 may be moveable not only in
the X directions, but also in the Y directions. Furthermore, part
of each of the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.n is moved by
the corresponding arm 56.sub.n, and therefore a sensor (not shown),
e.g., an interferometer or an encoder, can measure the position of
the part that is fixed to that corresponding arm 56.sub.n. The
sensors may measure the position of the secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.n in the X directions only, but they may also be capable of
measuring the positions of the secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.n in other directions, e.g., the Y directions and/or the
rotational directions (including at least one of the .theta.x and
the .theta.y directions).
[0092] Vacuum pads 58.sub.n (n=1-4), each of which comprises a
differential exhaust type air bearing, are provided to the upper
surfaces of the arms 56.sub.n, respectively. In addition, rotary
drive mechanisms 60.sub.n (n=1-4; refer to FIG. 7), which include
motors and the like, can pivot the arms 56.sub.n in accordance with
instructions from the main control apparatus 20. After the main
control apparatus 20 rotationally adjusts the arms 56.sub.n, it
operates the vacuum pads 58.sub.n so as to chuck the arms 56.sub.n
to the measurement frame 21 (refer to FIG. 1). Thereby, the states
of the arms 56.sub.n after their rotational angles have been
adjusted are maintained, i.e., the desired positional relationships
among the primary alignment system AL1 and the four secondary
alignment systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 are maintained.
[0093] Magnetic bodies may be fixed in advance to the portions of
the measurement frame 21 that oppose the arms 56.sub.n, and
electromagnets may be used instead of the vacuum pads 58.sub.n.
[0094] In the present embodiment, for example, an image processing
type field image alignment (FIA) system is used for the primary
alignment system AL1 and each of the four secondary alignment
systems AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4. Each FIA system irradiates a target
mark with a broadband detection beam that does not photosensitize
the resist on, for example, the wafer W, uses an image capturing
device (e.g., a CCD or a CMOS) to capture an image of an index (an
index pattern on an index plate that is provided in each alignment
system; not shown) and an image of a target mark that is formed on
a light receiving surface by the light reflected from that target
mark, and outputs the captured image signals thereof. The captured
image signal from each of the alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 is supplied to the main control apparatus 20
(FIG. 7).
[0095] Furthermore, each of the alignment systems mentioned above
is not limited to an FIA system; for example, it is of course
possible to use, either independently or in appropriate
combination: an alignment sensor that radiates a coherent detection
beam to a target mark and detects scattered light or diffracted
light emitted from that target mark; and an alignment sensor that
causes and detects interference between two diffracted lights
(e.g., diffracted lights of the same order or diffracted lights
that diffract in the same direction) emitted from that target mark.
In addition, in the present embodiment, five alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 are provided, which makes it possible to
perform alignment efficiently. Nevertheless, the number of
alignment systems is not limited to five; for example, there may be
two to four or more than six, and there may be an even or odd
number. In addition, just the primary alignment system AL1 may be
used. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, each of the five
alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 is fixed to the
measurement frame 21 via the corresponding support member 54, but
the present invention is not limited thereto; for example, they may
be fixed to a lower surface of the main frame that holds the
projection unit PU.
[0096] As shown in FIG. 4, with the exposure apparatus 100 of the
present embodiment, four head units 62A-62D of the encoder system
are disposed in a state such that they surround the nozzle unit 32
discussed above on all four sides thereof. A plurality of Y heads
64 and X heads 66 that constitute the head units 62A-62D are fixed
to the bottom surface of the flat, plate shaped measurement frame
21 (refer to FIG. 1) via fixed members (not shown), as shown by
chain double-dashed lines in FIG. 4. The fixed members can
comprise, for example: multiple bushings, each of which has a
female thread formed therein that is made of a metal with a low
coefficient of expansion (e.g., Invar), that are embedded in the
measurement frame 21 and fixed therein by, for example, bonding;
and bolts that fix the casing of each of the individual heads 64,
66 of the head units 62A-62D to the corresponding bushing.
[0097] FIG. 3 is a plan view that shows the measurement frame 21.
As shown in FIG. 3, an opening 21a, through which the tip part of
the projection unit PU passes, is formed in the center part of the
measurement frame 21. The measurement frame 21 is formed from a
material that has an extremely low coefficient of linear thermal
expansion (low coefficient of expansion). Furthermore, the head
units 62A-62D may be fixed in the state wherein they are suspended
from a member with an extremely low coefficient of linear thermal
expansion that is fixed to the main frame that holds the projection
unit PU (discussed above).
[0098] The material of the measurement frame 21 is, for example, a
low expansion glass (e.g., CLEARCERAM-Z HS, which is the name of a
product made by Ohara Inc.) or a low expansion glass ceramic (e.g.,
Zerodur, which is the name of a product made by Schott Nippon
K.K.), both of which have a coefficient of linear thermal expansion
that is within approximately .+-.0.2.times.10.sup.-7/K (.+-.0.02
ppm/K). In addition, a low expansion ceramic that has a coefficient
of linear thermal expansion within approximately
0.5.times.10.sup.-6/K (0.5 ppm/K), or Super Invar, which has a
linear thermal expansion coefficient that is smaller than that of
Invar, can also be used as the material of the measurement frame
21.
[0099] In this regard, the material of a main body part, whereon
the plate 28 of the wafer table WTB of the wafer stage WST (FIG. 1)
is mounted, and the material of the stage main body 91 of the wafer
stage WST are, for example, iron (steel), which has a coefficient
of linear thermal expansion of approximately 0.1.times.10.sup.-4/K
(10 ppm/K), or Invar, which has a coefficient of linear thermal
expansion of approximately 1.times.10.sup.-6/K (1 ppm/K). As a
result, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of the
measurement frame 21 in the present embodiment is set smaller than,
e.g., approximately 1/2- 1/50, that of the members (the main body
part of the wafer stage WST) excepting the plate 28 (FIG. 5A)
wherein the scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2, 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 of
the wafer stage WST are formed.
[0100] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, the exposure apparatus 100
of the present embodiment is disposed on a floor FL inside a
chamber (not shown). The base plate 12, which guides the wafer
stage WST, is disposed on the floor FL via, for example, a
plurality of vibration isolating blocks (not shown). Furthermore,
three L-shaped suspending members 22A, 22B, 22C (refer to FIG. 3)
are fixed on the floor FL so that they surround the base plate 12,
and the measurement frame 21 is supported so that it is suspended
from the tip parts of the suspending members 22A, 22B, 22C via
vibration isolating members 23A, 23B, 23C, respectively. The
vibration isolating members 23A-23C are members that isolate
vibrations using, for example, air springs, hydraulics, or
mechanical springs.
[0101] In FIG. 3, columns 105A, 105B, 105C are installed on the
floor surface at three locations: positions that sandwich the
measurement frame 21 in the Y directions; and a position along the
side surface of the measurement frame 21 in the -X direction. X
axis sensors 106XA, 106XB, which measure the displacement of the
measurement frame 21 in the X directions, and Z axis sensors 106ZA,
106ZB, which measure the displacement of the measurement frame 21
in the Z directions, are mounted between the columns 105A, 105B and
the measurement frame 21. In addition, a Y axis sensor 106Y, which
measures the displacement of the measurement frame 21 in the Y
directions, and a Z axis sensor 106ZC, which measures the
displacement of the measurement frame 21 in the Z directions, are
mounted between the column 105C and the measurement frame 21. An
interferometer, an electrostatic capacitance type displacement
sensor, an eddy current type displacement sensor, or the like can
be used for each of the six axial sensors 106XA-106ZC. The six
axial sensors 106XA-106ZC measure the displacement of the
measurement frame 21, the floor surface of which serves as a
reference, in six degrees of freedom, i.e., in the X, the Y, the Z,
the .theta.x, the .theta.y, and the .theta.z directions, with high
precision and at a prescribed sampling rate; furthermore, the
measurement values are supplied to a control unit 108.
[0102] In addition, X axis actuators 107XA, 107XB, which displace
the measurement frame 21 in the X directions, are mounted between
the columns 105A, 105B and the measurement frame 21, respectively;
in addition, Z axis actuators 107ZA, 107ZB, which displace the
measurement frame 21 in the Z directions, are mounted between the
columns 105A, 105B and the measurement frame 21, respectively.
Furthermore, a Y axis actuator 107Y, which displaces the
measurement frame 21 in the Y directions, and a Z axis actuator
107ZC, which displaces the measurement frame 21 in the Z
directions, are mounted between the column 105C and the measurement
frame 21. For example, a voice coil motor can be used for each of
the six axial noncontactual type actuators 107XA, 107XB, 107Y,
107ZA-107ZC, but it is otherwise also possible to use, for example,
EI core type electromagnetic actuators. The six axial actuators
107XA-107ZC can control the displacement of the measurement frame
21 with respect to the floor surface with six degrees of freedom.
Under the control of the main control apparatus 20 (FIG. 7), the
control unit 108 uses a servo system to drive the six axial
actuators 107XA-107ZC based on the measurement values of the six
axial sensors 106XA-106ZC during the performance of a scanning
exposure so that the displacement of the measurement frame 21 with
respect to the floor surface in six degrees of freedom falls within
a prescribed permissible range. Furthermore, the main frame (not
shown) that holds the projection unit PU may be used as the
reference for measuring and controlling the displacement of the
measurement frame 21.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 1, when the exposure apparatus 100 is
operated, highly purified, temperature stabilized gas (e.g., dry
air) is supplied in a downflow at a prescribed flow rate via
ventilation ports 6A, 6B in the ceiling of the chamber (not shown)
wherein the exposure apparatus 100 is housed, as indicated by
arrows 7A, 7B. Part of the supplied gas is recovered via a recovery
port (not shown), which is provided in the floor FL, after which
the gas passes through a dust filter and a temperature control
unit, and then once again returns to the interior of the chamber
via the ventilation ports 6A, 6B. At this time, numerous openings
25 are formed with a prescribed pitch in the X directions and the Y
directions over substantially the entire surface of the area that
surrounds the projection unit PU of the measurement frame 21, as
shown in FIG. 3, so that the gas flows smoothly in a downflow
inside the chamber. Thereby, the temperature stability and the like
of the wafer W on the wafer stage WST is improved.
[0104] Next, referring to FIG. 4, the head units 62A, 62C comprise
a plurality of Y heads 64 (here, six for each head unit) that are
disposed on the +X side and the -X side of the projection unit PU
in the X directions at prescribed intervals along a straight line
LH that passes through the optical axis AX of the projection
optical system PL and is parallel to the X axis. The Y heads 64
measure the position (the Y position) of the wafer stage WST (the
wafer table WTB) in the Y directions using the Y scales 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2 (FIG. 5A) discussed above. In addition, the head units
62B, 62D comprise a plurality of X heads 66 (here, seven and
eleven; however, in FIG. 4, three of the eleven are overlapped by
the primary alignment system AL1 and are therefore not shown) that
are disposed on the +Y side and the -Y side of the projection unit
PU in the Y directions substantially at prescribed intervals along
the straight line LV that passes through the optical axis AX and is
parallel to the Y axis. The X heads 66 measure the position (X
position) of the wafer stage WST (the wafer table WTB) in the X
directions using the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 (FIG. 5A)
discussed above.
[0105] Accordingly, the head units 62A, 62C in FIG. 4 comprise
multilens (here, six-lens) Y axis linear encoders (hereinbelow,
properly abbreviated as "Y encoders") 70A, 70C (refer to FIG. 7)
that measure the Y position of the wafer stage WST (the wafer table
WTB) using the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 (FIG. 5A). The Y
encoders 70A, 70C comprise switching control units 70Aa, 70Ca that
switch among the measurement values of the plurality of Y heads 64
(discussed in detail later). Here, the spacing between adjacent Y
heads 64 (i.e., between the measurement beams radiated from the Y
heads 64) that constitute the head units 62A, 62C is set narrower
than the widths (more precisely, the lengths of the grating lines
38) of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 (discussed above) in the X
directions. In addition, the Y heads 64 and the X heads 66--of the
pluralities of Y heads 64 and X heads 66 that constitute the head
units 62A-62D--that are positioned most on the inner side are
disposed as close as possible to the optical axis AX, and are
therefore fixed to the measurement frame 21 at the lower end part
of the lens barrel 40 of the projection optical system PL (more
precisely, the lateral sides of the nozzle unit 32 that surrounds
the objective 191).
[0106] In addition, the head units 62B, 62D basically comprise
multilens (here, seven and eleven lenses, respectively) X axis
linear encoders (hereinbelow, properly abbreviated as "X encoders")
70B, 70D (refer to FIG. 7) that measure the X position of the wafer
stage WST (the wafer table WTB) using the X scales 39X.sub.1,
39X.sub.2 discussed above. The X encoders 70B, 70D comprise
switching control units 70Ba, 70Da that switch among the
measurement values of the plurality of X heads 66 (discussed in
detail later). Furthermore, in the present embodiment, there is a
case wherein two of the eleven X heads 66 that constitute the head
unit 62D simultaneously oppose the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2
when, for example, alignment is performed (discussed below). In
such a case, the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the opposing X
heads 66 constitute the X linear encoders 70B, 70D.
[0107] The spacing between adjacent X heads 66 (measurement beams)
that constitute the head units 62B, 62D is set narrower than the
widths (more precisely, the lengths of the grating lines 37) of the
X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 in the Y directions (discussed
above).
[0108] Furthermore, Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2, wherein detection
points are disposed so that they are substantially symmetric with
respect to the detection centers, are provided on the -X side of
the secondary alignment system AL2.sub.1 and the +X side of the
secondary alignment system AL2.sub.4, respectively, (FIG. 4) along
a straight line that is parallel to the X axis through which the
detection center of the primary alignment system AL1 passes.
[0109] The spacing between the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2 is set
so that it is substantially equal to a distance L (the spacing of
the reference gratings 52 (FIG. 6(A) in the Y directions). The
heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2 are configured so that they oppose the Y
scales 39Y.sub.2, 39Y.sub.1, respectively, in the state wherein the
center of the wafer W on the wafer stage WST is on the straight
line LV, as shown in FIG. 4. When, for example, the alignment
operation discussed below is performed, the Y scales 39Y.sub.2,
39Y.sub.1 are disposed opposing the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2,
respectively, and the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2 (i.e., the Y
encoders 70C, 70A, including the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2)
measure the Y position (and the angle in the .theta.z directions)
of the wafer stage WST.
[0110] In addition, in the present embodiment, the pair of
reference gratings 52 of the CD bar 46 (FIG. 6A) and the Y heads
64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2 oppose one another when, for example, the
secondary alignment systems perform baseline measurement (discussed
below); furthermore, the reference gratings 52, which oppose the Y
heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2, measure the Y position of the CD bar 46
at the positions of the reference gratings 52. Hereinbelow, the
linear encoders that comprise the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2,
which oppose the reference gratings 52, are called Y encoders 70E,
70F (refer to FIG. 7).
[0111] The measurement values of the six encoders 70A-70F discussed
above are supplied to the main control apparatus 20, which controls
the position of the wafer table WTB within the XY plane based on
the measurement values of the encoders 70A-70D and controls the
rotation of the CD bar 46 in the .theta.z directions based on the
measurement values of the Y encoders 70E, 70F.
[0112] The exposure apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is
provided with an oblique incidence type multipoint focal point
position detection system (hereinbelow, abbreviated as the
"multipoint AF system") that comprises a radiating system 90a and a
light receiving system 90b as shown in FIG. 4 and is configured the
same as that disclosed in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent
Application Publication No. H06-283403 (corresponding U.S. Pat. No.
5,448,332). In one example of the present embodiment, the radiating
system 90a is disposed on the -Y side of the -X end part of the
head unit 62C discussed above, and the light receiving system 90b
is disposed on the -Y side of the +X end part of the head unit 62A
discussed above in the state wherein it is opposed to the radiating
system 90a.
[0113] The multiple detection points of the multipoint AF system
(90a, 90b) in FIG. 4 are disposed on a surface to be inspected at
prescribed intervals in the X directions. In the present
embodiment, the detection points are disposed in a row matrix of,
for example, 1 row by M columns (wherein M is the total number of
detection points) or a matrix of 2 rows by N columns (wherein N is
one half of the total number of detection points). In FIG. 4, the
multiple detection points, each of which is irradiated by a
detection beam, are not individually shown, but are rather shown as
a long and thin detection area AF that extends in the X directions
and is disposed between the radiating system 90a and the light
receiving system 90b. The detection area AF is defined so that its
length in the X directions is on the same order as the diameter of
the wafer W, which makes it possible to measure the position
(surface position) of substantially the entire surface of the wafer
W in the Z directions with just a single scan of the wafer W in the
Y directions. In addition, because the detection area AF is
disposed between the immersion area 14 (the exposure area IA)
discussed above and the detection areas of the alignment systems
(AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4) with respect to the Y directions, it is
possible to perform the detection operations in parallel by using
the multipoint AF system and the alignment systems. The multipoint
AF system may be provided to, for example, the main frame that
holds the projection unit PU; however, in the present embodiment,
it is provided to the measurement frame discussed above.
[0114] Furthermore, the multiple detection points are arranged in a
matrix of 1 row by M columns or 2 rows by N columns, but the number
of rows and/or the number of columns is not limited thereto.
However, if the number of rows is two or greater, then it is
preferable to offset the positions of the detection points in the X
directions for the different rows. Furthermore, the multiple
detection points are disposed in the X directions, but the present
invention is not limited thereto; for example, all or part of the
multiple detection points may be disposed at different positions in
the Y directions.
[0115] The exposure apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is
provided with two pairs of surface position sensors 72a, 72b and
72c, 72d for Z positional measurement (hereinbelow, abbreviated as
"Z sensors") that are disposed symmetrically with respect to the
straight line LV discussed above and are provided in the vicinity
of the detection points of the plurality of detection points of the
multipoint AF systems (90a, 90b) that are positioned on both ends
thereof, i.e., in the vicinities of both end parts of the detection
area AF. The Z sensors 72a-72d are fixed to, for example, the lower
surface of the measurement frame 21 in FIG. 3. Examples of sensors
that can be used for each of the Z sensors 72a-72d include: a
sensor that radiates light to the wafer table WTB from above,
receives the light reflected thereby, and measures the position of
the front surface of the wafer table WTB in the Z directions, which
are orthogonal to the XY plane, at the irradiation point of that
light; and an optical displacement sensor (CD pickup type sensor)
that is configured as an optical pickup that is used in, for
example, a CD drive apparatus. Furthermore, the Z sensors 72a-72d
may be provided to, for example, the main frame of the projection
unit PU discussed above.
[0116] Furthermore, the head unit 62C discussed above comprises
multiple (here, six on each side with a total of twelve) Z sensors
74.sub.i,j (i=1, 2 and j=1, 2, . . . , 6) that are positioned on
one side and another side of the straight line LH, which connects
the multiple Y heads 64, so that the straight line LH is interposed
therebetween in the X directions, and are disposed at prescribed
intervals along two straight lines that are parallel to the
straight line LH. In this case, the Z sensors 74.sub.1,j,
74.sub.2,j that form pairs are disposed so that they are symmetric
with respect to the abovementioned straight line LH. Furthermore,
multiple pairs (here, six pairs) of the Z sensors 74.sub.1,j,
74.sub.2,j and the multiple Y heads 64 are disposed alternately in
the X directions. Similar to the Z sensors 72a-72d discussed above,
sensors that are used for each of the Z sensors 74.sub.i,j include,
for example, CD pickup type sensors.
[0117] Here, the spacing between each pair of the Z sensors
74.sub.1,j, 74.sub.2,j, which is positioned so that the
corresponding sensors are symmetric with respect to the straight
line LH, is set so that it is equal to the spacing of the Z sensors
72c, 72d. In addition, the pair of Z sensors 74.sub.1,4, 74.sub.2,4
is positioned along a straight line that is parallel to the Y
directions and is the same line along which the Z sensors 72a, 72b
are positioned.
[0118] In addition, the head unit 62A discussed above comprises
multiple (here, twelve) Z sensors 76.sub.p,q (p=1, 2 and q=1, 2, .
. . , 6), which are disposed symmetrically to the multiple Z
sensors 74.sub.i,j discussed above with respect to the straight
line LV discussed above. Similar to the Z sensors 72a-72d discussed
above, sensors that are used for the Z sensors 76.sub.p,q include,
for example, CD pickup type sensors. In addition, the pair of Z
sensors 76.sub.1,3, 76.sub.2,3 is positioned along a straight line
in the Y directions that is the same line along which the Z sensors
72c, 72d are positioned. The Z sensors 74.sub.i,j and 76.sub.p,q
are fixed to the bottom surface of the measurement frame 21.
[0119] Furthermore, in FIG. 4, the measurement stage MST is not
shown and the immersion area 14, which is formed from the water Lq
that is held between the measurement stage MST and the objective
191, is shown. In addition, in FIG. 4, a symbol 78 indicates a
local air conditioning system that ventilates dry air, the
temperature of which has been adjusted to a prescribed temperature,
to the vicinity of the beam path of the multipoint AF system (90a,
90b) in, for example a downflow as shown by the outline arrows in
FIG. 4. In addition, a symbol UP indicates an unload position at
which the wafer on the wafer table WTB is unloaded, and a symbol LP
indicates a load position at which the wafer on the wafer table WTB
is loaded. In the present embodiment, the unload position UP and
the loading position LP are set so that they are symmetric with
respect to the straight line LV. Furthermore, the unload position
UP and the loading position LP may be one and the same
position.
[0120] FIG. 7 shows the principal components of the control system
of the exposure apparatus 100. This control system principally
comprises the main control apparatus 20, which comprises a
microcomputer (or a workstation) that performs supervisory control
of the entire apparatus. Furthermore, in FIG. 7, the various
sensors that are provided to the measurement stage MST--e.g., the
illumination intensity nonuniformity sensor 94, the aerial image
measuring instrument 96, and the wavefront aberration measuring
instrument 98, which are discussed above--are indicated
collectively as a sensor group 9.
[0121] The exposure apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, which
is configured as discussed above, adopts the arrangement of the X
scales and the Y scales on the wafer table WTB as discussed above
and the arrangement of the X heads and the Y heads as discussed
above, and therefore--within the effective stroke range of the
wafer stage WST (i.e., in the present embodiment, the range of
movement needed to perform alignment and the exposure
operation)--the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the head units
62B, 62D (the X heads 66) necessarily oppose one another, and the Y
scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 and the head units 62A, 62C (the Y
heads 64) or the Y heads 64y.sub.1, 64y.sub.2 necessarily oppose
one another, as exemplified in FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and the like.
Furthermore, in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, the heads that oppose the
corresponding X scales and Y scales are enclosed by circles.
[0122] Consequently, the main control apparatus 20 can control the
position (including the rotation in the .theta.z directions) of the
wafer stage WST--within the effective stroke range of the wafer
stage WST discussed above--in the XY plane with high precision by
controlling each of the motors that constitute the stage drive
system 124 based on at least three measurement values of the
encoders 70A-70D. Because the effects of air turbulence on the
measurement values of the encoders 70A-70D are smaller than on the
interferometers to the extent that such effects can be ignored, the
short-term stability of the measurement values, which is affected
by air turbulence, is remarkably better than that of the
interferometers. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the sizes
(e.g., the number of heads and/or the spacing) of the head units
62B, 62D, 62A, 62C are set in accordance with, for example, the
effective stroke range of the wafer stage WST and the sizes of the
scales (i.e., the range over which the diffraction gratings are
formed). Accordingly, the four scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2,
39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 oppose all of the head units 62B, 62D, 62A,
62C within the effective stroke range of the wafer stage WST, but
the four scales do not necessarily have to oppose all of the
corresponding head units. For example, one of the X scales
39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and/or one of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2 may shift from the head units. If one of the X scales
39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 or one of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2
shifts from the head units, then three scales oppose the head units
within the effective stroke range of the wafer stage WST, and
therefore it is possible to continuously measure the position of
the wafer stage WST in the X axial, the Y axial, and the .theta.z
directions. In addition, if one of the X scales 39X.sub.1,
39X.sub.2 and one of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 shifts from
the head units, then the two scales oppose the head units within
the effective stroke range of the wafer stage WST, and therefore
the position of the wafer stage WST in the .theta.z directions
cannot be measured continuously, but the positions in the X and the
Y directions can be measured continuously. In this case, the
position of the wafer stage WST may be controlled by concomitantly
using the position of the wafer stage WST in the .theta.z
directions measured by the interferometer system 118.
[0123] In addition, when the wafer stage WST is moved in the X
directions as indicated by the outline arrow in FIG. 8A, each of
the Y heads 64, which measure the position of the wafer stage WST
in the Y directions, sequentially shifts to measurement of the
adjacent Y head 64 as indicated by the arrows e.sub.1, e.sub.2 in
the drawing. For example, the Y head 64 that is enclosed by the
solid line circle shifts to measurement of the Y head 64 that is
enclosed by the dotted line circle. Consequently, the switchover of
the measurement values before and after the shift is performed by
the switching control units 70Aa, 70Ca inside the Y encoders 70A,
70C (FIG. 7). Namely, in order to shift the Y heads 64 and switch
over the measurement values smoothly in the present embodiment, the
spacing between adjacent Y heads 64 that constitute the head units
62A, 62C is set narrower than the widths of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2 in the X directions, as discussed above.
[0124] In addition, in the present embodiment as discussed above,
the spacing between adjacent X heads 66 that constitute the head
units 62B, 62D is set narrower than the widths of the X scales
39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 (discussed above) in the Y directions.
Accordingly, the same as discussed above, when the wafer stage WST
is moved in the Y directions as indicated by the outline arrow in
FIG. 8B, each of the X heads 66, which measure the position of the
wafer stage WST in the X directions, sequentially shifts to
measurement of the adjacent X head 66 (e.g., the X head 66 that is
enclosed by the solid line circle shifts to measurement of the X
head 66 that is enclosed by the dotted line circle), and the
switchover of measurement values before and after that shift is
performed by the switching control units 70Ba, 70Da inside the X
encoders 70B, 70D (FIG. 7).
[0125] Next, the configuration of the Y heads 64 and the X heads 66
of the encoders 70A-70F will be explained, taking the Y encoder
70A, an enlarged view of which is shown in FIG. 9A, as a
representative example. FIG. 9A shows one of the Y heads 64 of the
head unit 62A that radiates a detection beam (measurement beam) to
the Y scale 39Y.sub.1.
[0126] The Y head 64 largely comprises three portions: a radiating
system 64a; an optical system 64b; and a light receiving system
64c. The radiating system 64a includes: a light source, e.g., a
semiconductor laser LD, that emits a laser beam LB in a direction
that is at an angle of 45.degree. with respect to the Y axis and
the Z axis; and a lens L1, which is disposed in the optical path of
the laser beam LB that is emitted from the semiconductor laser LD.
The optical system 64b comprises: a polarizing beam splitter PBS,
the separation plane of which is parallel to the XZ plane;
quarter-wave plates (hereinbelow, denoted as ".lamda./4 plates")
WP1a, WP1b; a pair of reflecting mirrors R1a, R1b; lenses L2a, L2b;
and reflecting mirrors R2a, R2b.
[0127] The light receiving system 64c comprises a polarizer (an
analyzer) and a photodetector. In the Y head 64 of the Y encoder
70A, the laser beam LB that is emitted from the semiconductor laser
LD travels through the lens L1 and impinges the polarizing beam
splitter PBS, upon which it is polarized and split into two beams
LB.sub.1, LB.sub.2. The beam LB.sub.1, which transmits through the
polarizing beam splitter PBS, travels via the reflecting mirror R1a
and reaches a reflecting diffraction grating RG that is formed in
the Y scale 39Y.sub.1; furthermore, the beam LB.sub.2 that is
reflected by the polarizing beam splitter PBS travels via the
reflecting mirror Rib and reaches the reflecting diffraction
grating RG Furthermore, polarization and splitting herein means the
splitting of the incident beam into a P polarized light component
and an S polarized light component.
[0128] Diffraction beams of a prescribed order (e.g., .+-.1st order
diffraction beams), which are generated by the diffraction grating
RG as a result of the radiation of the beams LB.sub.1, LB.sub.2,
travel via the lenses L2b, L2a, are converted to circularly
polarized beams by the .lamda./4 plates WP1b, WP1a, are reflected
by the reflecting mirrors R2b, R2a, once again pass through the
.lamda./4 plates WP1b, WP1a, and reach the polarizing beam splitter
PBS by tracing the same optical path as the forward path, but in
the reverse direction. Each of the two beams that reach the
polarizing beam splitter PBS have a polarized light direction that
is rotated by 90.degree. with respect to the original direction.
Consequently, the 1st order diffraction beam of the beam LB.sub.1,
which previously transmitted through the polarizing beam splitter
PBS, is reflected by the polarizing beam splitter PBS and enters
the light receiving system 64c; in addition, the 1st order
diffraction beam of the beam LB.sub.2, which was previously
reflected by the polarizing beam splitter PBS, transmits through
the polarizing beam splitter PBS, is combined coaxially with
the--1st order diffraction beam of the beam LB.sub.1, and enters
the light receiving system 64c. Furthermore, inside the light
receiving system 64c, the analyzers align the polarization
directions of the abovementioned two .+-.1st order diffraction
beams that interfere and thereby form interference light that is
detected by the photodetectors, which then convert the intensity of
the interference light to an electrical signal.
[0129] Furthermore, for example, an optical system that splits and
combines the beams LB.sub.1, LB.sub.2 may be added to form a first
interference light, a second interference light may be generated
with a phase that differs by 90.degree. from the first interference
light, and the interference light thereof may be photoelectrically
converted so as to generate an electrical signal. In this case,
measurement resolving power can be increased by using a two phase
electrical signal, wherein the phases differ by 90.degree., to
generate measurement pulses that subdivide one-half the period
(pitch) of the Y scale 39Y.sub.1 into, for example, at least 100 to
1000 parts.
[0130] As can be understood from the explanation above, with the Y
encoder 70A, the lengths of the optical paths of the two beams that
are caused to interfere with one another are extremely short and
substantially equal, and therefore it is possible to virtually
ignore the effects of air turbulence. Furthermore, when the Y scale
39Y.sub.1 (i.e., the wafer stage WST) moves in either of the
measurement directions (in this case, the Y directions), the phase
of each of the beams changes, and the intensity of the interference
light changes. The light receiving system 64c detects the change in
the intensity of the interference light, and the positional
information that corresponds to that intensity change is output as
the measurement value of the Y encoder 70A. The other encoders 70B,
70C, 70D are configured similar to the Y encoder 70A. Each of the
encoders has a resolving power of, for example, approximately 0.1
nm. Furthermore, with each of the encoders of the present
embodiment, the laser beam LB, which has a cross sectional shape
that extends lengthwise in the directions of periodicity of the
grating RG may be used as the detection beam, as shown in FIG. 9B.
FIG. 9B is a view wherein the size of the beam LB is exaggerated
with respect to the grating RG.
[0131] The following explains one example of an operation wherein
the position of the wafer stage WST in the exposure apparatus 100
of the present embodiment and is measured and an exposure is
performed, referencing the flow chart in FIG. 11. First, in step
201 of FIG. 11, the plurality of the encoder heads (the X heads 66
and the Y heads 64) of the X axis and Y axis head units 62A-62D as
well as the Y axis interferometers 16, 18 and the X axis
interferometers 126, 130, which are optical systems of the
multiaxis interferometers for wafer measurement, are mounted to the
measurement frame 21 of FIG. 3. In step 202, which is the next
step, the measurement frame 21 is suspended from the suspending
members 22A-22C of FIG. 3 via the vibration isolating members
23A-23C. Subsequently, the tip part of the projection unit PU is
passed through the opening 21a of the measurement frame 21, and the
liquid immersion mechanism that includes the nozzle unit 32 is
attached.
[0132] In step 203, which is the next step, the plate 28, wherein
the X axis and Y axis scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2, 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2 of FIG. 5A are formed, is installed on the wafer table
WTB, the wafer stage WST is assembled and adjusted, and the six
axial sensors 106XA-106ZC (the displacement sensors) and the six
axial actuators 107XA-107ZC shown in FIG. 3 are mounted to the
measurement frame 21. The operations of the steps 201-203 up to
this point are performed in a clean room when, for example, the
exposure apparatus 100 is assembled and adjusted. After the
assembly and adjustment are complete, the exposure apparatus 100 is
housed inside a prescribed chamber.
[0133] Next, in step 204 of FIG. 11, when the operation of the
exposure apparatus 100 is started, a downflow of clean gas is
started inside the chamber, wherein the exposure apparatus is
housed. In step 205, which is the next step, the sensors
106XA-106ZC of FIG. 3 measure the displacement of the measurement
frame in six degrees of freedom with respect to the columns
105A-105C (the floor surface), and the actuators 107XA-107ZC are
used to bring that displacement to within the permissible range. In
step 206, which is the next step, the wafer stage WST is moved at
low speed, the X heads 66 and the Y heads 64 (the encoder heads) as
well as the Y axis interferometer 16 and the X axis interferometer
126 of the wafer interferometer measure the amount of movement of
the wafer stage WST with respect to the measurement frame 21 (the
projection optical system PL), and the measurement values of the X
heads 66 and the Y heads 64 (the head units 62A-62D) are calibrated
based on the measurement results. This calibration will now be
explained in detail.
[0134] Namely, the scales of the encoders lack long-term mechanical
stability because, for example, the diffraction gratings deform
with the passage of usage time or as a result of thermal expansion
and the like, and because the pitch of the diffraction grating
varies partially or overall. Consequently, because the error
included in each measurement value increases with the passage of
usage time, it is necessary to compensate for it. In this case, the
Y axis interferometer 16 and the X axis interferometer 126 of FIG.
2 can measure the Y position and the X position of the wafer table
WTB without Abbe error.
[0135] Accordingly, using a speed that is low enough to ignore
short-term fluctuations of the measurement values of the Y axis
interferometer 16 caused by interferometer turbulence and while
maintaining the measurement values of the X axis interferometer 126
at a prescribed value, the wafer stage WST is moved in the +Y
direction (over the effective stroke range discussed above) while
the amount of pitching, the amount of rolling, and the amount of
yawing (which are determined based on the measurement values of the
Y axis interferometer 16 and the Z sensors 74.sub.1,4, 74.sub.2,4,
76.sub.1,3, 76.sub.2,3 of FIG. 4) are maintained at zero, e.g.,
until the other ends (-Y side ends) of the Y scales 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2 coincide with the corresponding head units 62A, 62C.
During this movement, the main control apparatus 20 captures the
measurement values of the Y linear encoder 70A, 70C and the
measurement values of the Y axis interferometer 16 (FIG. 7) at
prescribed sampling intervals and derives the relationships between
the measurement values of the Y linear encoders 70A, 70C and the
measurement values of the Y axis interferometer 16 based on those
captured measurement values. Based on these relationships, errors
in the measurement values of the Y linear encoders 70A, 70C can be
corrected.
[0136] Similarly, errors in the measurement values of the X linear
encoders 70B, 70D (the head units 62B, 62D) can be corrected using
the X axis interferometer 126.
[0137] Next, in step 207 of FIG. 11, the measurement values of the
Y heads 64 and the X heads 66 (the encoder heads) of the plurality
of X axis and Y axis head units 62A-62D are switched over, the
position and the speed of the wafer stage WST are controlled while
measuring the coordinates of the wafer stage WST, alignment is
performed, and the wafer is exposed. Subsequently, in step 208, the
reticle is exchanged, etc., and the operation of the next process
is performed.
[0138] Specifically, the wafer alignment in step 207, which is
performed by the exposure apparatus 100 of the present embodiment,
will now be explained simply, referencing FIG. 10A through FIG.
10C.
[0139] Here, using the layout (shot map) shown in FIG. 10C, the
operation will be explained for the case wherein a plurality of
shot regions are formed on the wafer W, and sixteen colored shot
regions AS thereof are assigned as the alignment shots.
[0140] Furthermore, the measurement stage MST is not shown in FIG.
10A and FIG. 10B.
[0141] At this time, for each of the alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 in FIG. 4, a baseline quantity (the positional
relationship between the coordinates of the detection center and
the reference position of the image of the pattern of the reticle R
in FIG. 1) is derived in advance by using the relevant alignment
system to measure the coordinates of the corresponding fiducial
mark M on the CD bar 46 on the measurement stage MST side in FIG.
6A and is stored in the alignment calculation system 20a in FIG. 7.
In addition, it is assumed that the secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 perform positional adjustment in the X
directions in advance in accordance with the layout of the
alignment shots AS.
[0142] First, the main control apparatus 20 moves the wafer stage
WST, whereon the center of the wafer W is positioned at the loading
position LP, to the left and diagonally upward in FIG. 10A so that
the wafer stage WST is positioned at a prescribed position (an
alignment start position, which is discussed below) at which the
center of the wafer W is positioned along the straight line LV. In
this case, the main control apparatus 20 drives the various motors
of the stage drive system 124 based on the measurement values of
the X encoder 70D and the measurement values of the Y axis
interferometer 16 in order to move the wafer stage WST. In this
state wherein it is positioned at the alignment start position, the
position (including the .theta.z rotation) of the wafer table WTB,
whereon the wafer W is mounted, within the XY plane is controlled
based on the measurement values of the four encoders, i.e., the two
X heads 66, which constitute the head unit 62D that opposes the X
scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2, and the two Y heads 64y.sub.2,
64y.sub.1 that oppose the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2, (FIG.
4).
[0143] Next, based on the measurement values of the abovementioned
four encoders, the main control apparatus 20 moves the wafer stage
WST by a prescribed distance in the +Y direction so that it is
positioned at the position shown in FIG. 10A, uses the primary
alignment system AL1 and the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.2,
AL2.sub.3 to substantially simultaneously, or separately, detect
the alignment marks that are provided to the three first alignment
shots AS (refer to the star symbols in FIG. 10A), and supplies the
detection results of the abovementioned three alignment systems
AL1, AL2.sub.2, AL2.sub.3 and the measurement values of the
abovementioned four encoders at the time of those detections to the
alignment calculation system 20a so that they are associated.
Furthermore, the secondary alignment systems AL2.sub.1, AL2.sub.4
on both ends, which do not detect alignment marks at this time, may
either radiate or not radiate detection beams to the wafer table
WTB (or the wafer). In addition, when wafer alignment is performed
in the present embodiment, the wafer stage WST is set to a position
in the X directions such that the primary alignment system AL1 is
disposed along the center line of the wafer table WTB, and the
primary alignment system AL1 detects the alignment mark of the
alignment shot that is positioned along the centerline of the
wafer. Furthermore, an alignment mark may be formed inside each of
the shot regions on the wafer W; however, in the present
embodiment, alignment marks are formed outside of each shot region,
i.e., on street-lines (scribe lines) that partition the numerous
shot regions of the wafer W.
[0144] Next, the main control apparatus 20 moves the wafer stage
WST by a prescribed distance in the +Y direction based on the
measurement values of the abovementioned four encoders so as to
position the wafer stage WST at a position at which the five
alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 can detect substantially
simultaneously, or separately, the alignment marks that are
provided to the five second alignment shots AS on the wafer W, uses
the five alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 to detect the
five alignment marks substantially simultaneously, or separately,
and supplies the detection results of the abovementioned five
alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 and the measurement
values of the abovementioned four encoders at the time of that
detection to the alignment calculation system 20a so that they are
associated.
[0145] Next, the main control apparatus 20 moves the wafer stage
WST by a prescribed distance in the +Y direction based on the
measurement values of the abovementioned four encoders so as to
position the wafer stage WST at a position at which the five
alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 can detect substantially
simultaneously, or separately, the alignment marks that are
provided to the five third alignment shots AS on the wafer W, uses
the five alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 to detect the
five alignment marks (refer to the star symbols in FIG. 10B
substantially simultaneously, or separately, and supplies the
detection results of the abovementioned five alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 and the measurement values of the
abovementioned four encoders at the time of that detection to the
alignment calculation system 20a so that they are associated.
[0146] Next, the main control apparatus 20 moves the wafer stage
WST by a prescribed distance in the +Y direction based on the
measurement values of the abovementioned four encoders so as to
position the wafer stage WST at a position at which the primary
alignment systems AL1 and the secondary alignment systems
AL2.sub.2-AL2.sub.3 can detect substantially simultaneously, or
separately, the alignment marks that are provided to the three
first alignment shots AS on the wafer W, uses the three alignment
systems AL1, AL2.sub.2-AL2.sub.3 to detect the three alignment
marks substantially simultaneously, or separately, and supplies the
detection results of the abovementioned three alignment systems
AL1, AL2.sub.2-AL2.sub.3 and the measurement values of the
abovementioned four encoders at the time of that detection to the
alignment calculation system 20a so that they are associated.
[0147] Furthermore, the alignment calculation system 20a uses the
results of detecting the total of sixteen alignment marks obtained
in this manner, the measurement values of the corresponding four
encoders, and the baseline value of the primary alignment system
AL1 and the secondary alignment system AL2.sub.n to perform EGA
statistical calculation, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese
Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. S61-44429
(corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 4,780,617), and calculates the layout
of all of the shot regions on the wafer W within a stage coordinate
system (e.g., an XY coordinate system wherein the optical axis AX
of the projection optical system PL is the origin) defined by the
measurement axes of the abovementioned four encoders (the four head
units).
[0148] Thus, with the present embodiment, the wafer stage WST is
moved in the +Y direction and is positioned at four locations along
the movement pathway thereof, which makes it possible to obtain the
position of the alignment mark of each of the sixteen alignment
shots AS in a much shorter time period compared with the case
wherein the sixteen alignment marks are sequentially detected using
a single alignment system. In this case, it is particularly easy to
see by examining, for example, the alignment systems AL1,
AL2.sub.2, AL2.sub.3 that the alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.2,
AL2.sub.3 detect the plurality of the alignment marks, which are
arrayed along the Y directions and disposed sequentially within the
detection areas (e.g., corresponding to the irradiation areas of
the detection beams), in connection with the abovementioned
operation wherein the wafer stage WST is moved. Consequently, when
the abovementioned alignment marks are measured, it is not
necessary to move the wafer stage WST in the X directions, which
makes it possible to perform alignment efficiently.
[0149] Next, under the control of the main control apparatus 20, a
liquid immersion method and a step-and-scan method are used to
expose all of the shot regions on the wafer W with the image of the
pattern of the reticle R by using the measurement values of the
head units 62A-62D (the encoders 70A-70D), which are based on the
array coordinates, supplied from the alignment calculation system
20a to drive the wafer stage WST.
[0150] The operation and effects of the present embodiment are as
described below.
[0151] (1) The measuring method that is performed by the exposure
apparatus 100 in FIG. 1 measures the displacement of the wafer
stage WST by detecting the scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2, 39Y.sub.1,
39Y.sub.2, which are provided to the wafer stage WST (movable
member), using the plurality of X heads 66 and Y heads 64, and
comprises: a step 201, wherein the plurality of X heads 66 and Y
heads 64 are supported by the measurement frame 21 that has a
linear thermal expansion coefficient that is smaller than that of
the main body part-excepting the plate 28 wherein the scale
39X.sub.1 and the like of the wafer stage WST are formed; and a
step 207 that measures the displacement of the wafer stage WST
based on the detection results of the plurality of X heads 66 and Y
heads 64.
[0152] In addition, the exposure apparatus 100 radiates the
illumination light IL (exposure light) to the wafer W, which is
held by the moveable wafer stage WST, forms the prescribed pattern
on the wafer W, and comprises: the scales 39X.sub.1, 39Y.sub.1, and
the like; the plurality of X heads 66 and Y heads 64, which detect
the positions of the scales; the measurement frame 21, which
integrally supports the plurality of X heads 66 and Y heads 64; and
the switching control units 70Aa-70Da, which are disposed inside
the encoders 70A-70D, that derive the displacement of the wafer
stage WST based on the detection results of the plurality of X
heads 66 and Y heads 64.
[0153] Accordingly, the X heads 66 and the Y heads 64 are used to
detect the scales that are provided to the wafer stage WST, and
consequently there is no need to provide optical paths with lengths
that are on the same order as the stroke of the movable member as
in the case of a laser interferometer, and it is possible to
mitigate the effects of fluctuations in the refractive index of the
ambient gas. In addition, if the scale 39X.sub.1 deviates from the
detection target area of one of the X heads 66, measurement can
proceed by switching to another X head 66 that is capable of
detecting the scale 39X.sub.1. At this time, the coefficient of
linear thermal expansion of the measurement frame 21 is smaller
than that of the main body part of the wafer stage WST;
consequently, even if the ambient temperature fluctuates,
fluctuations in the positional relationships among the multiple X
heads 66 are prevented, and it is possible to reduce measurement
error when switching between the X heads 66. Accordingly, the
positioning accuracy of the wafer stage WST and the overlay
accuracy of the exposure apparatus are improved.
[0154] (2) In addition, the measurement frame 21 is formed from a
material that has a coefficient of linear thermal expansion that is
smaller than that of Invar. Accordingly, even if temperature of the
measurement frame 21 varies to a certain extent, measurement error
is kept small. Furthermore, the measurement frame 21 may be
configured so that the multiple blocks are coupled by, for example,
screw threads.
[0155] (3) In addition, a step 202 is executed, wherein the
measurement frame 21 is supported via the vibration isolating
members 23A-23C so that it is vibrationally isolated with respect
to the floor surface and, in turn, the base plate 12, which
comprises the guide surface of the wafer stage WST. Accordingly,
measurement error does not occur in the X heads 66 or the Y heads
64 as a result of the impact of vibrations generated when the wafer
stage WST is moved.
[0156] (4) In addition, a step 205 is executed, wherein the sensors
106XA-106ZC and the actuators 107XA-107ZC (FIG. 3) are used to
prevent the displacement of the measurement frame 21 with respect
to the floor surface and, in turn, the base plate 12, which
comprises the guide surface of the wafer stage WST. Accordingly,
even though the measurement frame 21 is supported via the vibration
isolating members, the positions of the X heads 66 and the Y heads
64 are maintained stably, which improves measurement accuracy.
[0157] (5) In addition, a step 206 is executed, wherein the Y axis
interferometer 16 and the X axis interferometer 126, which are at
least part of the optical members of the wafer interferometer, are
provided to the measurement frame 21 and measure the displacement
of the wafer stage WST with respect to the measurement frame 21
(the projection optical system PL). Accordingly, it is possible to
calibrate the measurement values that are produced by the Y heads
64 and the X heads 66 based on the measurement values that are
produced by the Y axis interferometer 16 and the X axis
interferometer 126.
[0158] (6) In addition, the scales 39X.sub.1, 39Y.sub.1 are
periodic patterns in the shape of diffraction gratings; in
addition, the X heads 66 and the Y heads 64 radiate detection beams
to those periodic patterns and receive the interference lights of
the multiple diffracted lights (1st order diffracted lights)
generated by those periodic patterns. Accordingly, in addition to
utilizing the short optical paths to mitigate the effects of
turbulence, the X heads 66 and the Y heads 64 can measure the
displacement of the wafer stage WST with a resolving power
(accuracy) that is on par with that of the laser
interferometers.
[0159] Furthermore, an encoder that can also be used for each of
the encoders 70A-70D is a magnetic type linear encoder, which
includes: a periodic magnetic scale wherein magnetism generating
bodies, the poles of which reverse, are formed with a fine pitch;
and a magnetic head that reads the magnetic scale.
Second Embodiment
[0160] The following explains a second embodiment of the present
invention, referencing FIG. 12. In the present embodiment, the X
heads 66 and the like (FIG. 1) are not directly supported by a
measurement frame, but rather are supported by a member that is
engaged with the measurement frame. Constituent components in FIG.
12 that correspond to those in FIG. 1 are assigned identical or
similar symbols, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted or
simplified.
[0161] FIG. 12 shows an exposure apparatus 100A of the present
embodiment. In FIG. 12, instead of the measurement frame 21 in FIG.
1, a flat plate-shaped measurement frame 21M is supported via the
vibration isolating members 23A, 23B and the like so that it is
suspended from the suspending members 22A, 22B and the like. In
addition, a base (hereinbelow, called "head base") 26 for the flat
plate-shaped encoder heads is vacuum chucked to the bottom surface
of the measurement frame 21M. Numerous openings (not shown), which
are for passing the gas that is supplied in a downflow
therethrough, are formed in the measurement frame 21M and the head
base 26 so that they have substantially the same positional
relationship within the XY plane. In addition, openings 21Ma, 26a,
which the lower end part of the projection unit PU passes through,
are formed in the measurement frame 21M and the head base 26,
respectively.
[0162] Furthermore, the plurality of X heads 66, which constitute
the head units 62B, 62D (FIG. 4), and the plurality of Y heads 64
(not shown in FIG. 12), which constitute the head units 62A, 62C
(FIG. 4), are fixed by a fixed member (not shown) to the bottom
surface of the head base 26. The Y axis interferometers 16, 18 and
the X axis interferometers 126, 130 (FIG. 2) are also fixed to the
bottom surface of the head base 26. Furthermore, all of the
alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 (FIG. 4) may be
supported by the measurement frame 21M, and openings, wherethrough
the tip parts of the alignment systems AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4,
pass, may be provided to the head base 26. In addition, the optical
system at at least the tip part of each of the alignment systems
AL1, AL2.sub.1-AL2.sub.4 may be supported by the head base 26.
[0163] In addition, similar to that shown in FIG. 5A, the X scales
39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 are also
formed in the plate 28 of the wafer stage WST (FIG. 12). The X
heads 66 and the Y heads 64 (not shown) at the bottom surface of
the head base 26 (FIG. 12) detect the positions of the X scales
39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the Y scales 39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2 and, in
turn, the position of the wafer stage WST (the wafer table
WTB).
[0164] In FIG. 12, the head base 26 is formed from a material with
a coefficient of linear thermal expansion that is smaller than that
of the members (the main body part of the wafer stage WST) of the
wafer stage WST, excepting the plate 28 (wherein the scales
39Y.sub.1, 39Y.sub.2, 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 in FIG. 5A are formed);
namely, the head base 26 is formed from a material with an
extremely small coefficient of linear thermal expansion. The
material of the head base 26 is a low expansion glass or a low
expansion glass ceramic, the same as that of the measurement frame
21 (FIG. 1). The head base 26 has a small shape with a thickness
that is from ten percent to several tens percent that of the
measurement frame 21M, which makes it possible to form the head
base 26 easily using a low expansion glass or a low expansion glass
ceramic.
[0165] Furthermore, the measurement frame 21M in FIG. 12 is formed
from a material with a coefficient of linear thermal expansion that
is larger than that of head base 26, but less than that of a metal
such as regular iron; for example, the measurement frame 21M is
formed from Invar, which has a coefficient of linear thermal
expansion of approximately 1.times.10.sup.-6/K. Using such a
material makes it possible to form a large, integral measurement
frame 21M easily. In addition, the same as in the measurement frame
21 of FIG. 3, six axial sensors 106XA-106ZC and six actuators
107XA-107ZC are provided to the measurement frame 21M, and thereby
control can be performed so that the displacement with respect to
the floor surface falls within the permissible range.
[0166] In addition, vacuum pads 111A, 111B and the like are
provided to the bottom surface of the measurement frame 21M at a
plurality of locations, and are connected to a chucking apparatus
110, which includes a compressor and a vacuum pump, via pipings
112A, 112B and the like. As a result of the positive and negative
pressure from the chucking apparatus 110, the head base 26 is held
to the bottom surface of the measurement frame 21M in the state
wherein it can move smoothly within the XY plane (substantially the
horizontal plane in the present embodiment) with a vacuum primed
aerostatic bearing system so that an air layer G with a thickness
of approximately several microns is interposed thereby.
[0167] However, in order to prevent the position of the head base
26 from gradually changing, the head base 26 is coupled to the
measurement frame 21M in the state wherein it can be rotated by a
bolt 109A at the measurement reference position. Furthermore, a
bolt 109B couples the head base 26 to the measurement frame 21M via
a long hole, which is formed in the head base 26, at a position at
which the head base 26 is substantially symmetric with respect to
its reference position and the projection optical system PL in the
state wherein the head base 26 is capable of relative movement in
the directions along the straight line that links the bolts 109A,
109B. Other aspects of the configuration are the same as those in
the first embodiment (FIG. 1).
[0168] In addition to the operation and effects of the first
embodiment, the present embodiment achieves the following operation
and effects.
[0169] (1) In the present embodiment, the plurality of the X heads
66 and the like as well as the Y axis interferometers 16, 18 and
the like are mounted to the bottom surface of the head base 26 in
the step that corresponds to step 201 in FIG. 11. Furthermore, the
head base 26 is coupled to the measurement frame 21M (the base
member), which has a coefficient of linear thermal expansion that
is larger than that of the head base 26, via the vacuum pads 111A,
111B and the like in the state wherein the head base 26 is capable
of being displaced in directions along the front surface of the
plate 28 (the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the like) of the
wafer stage WST.
[0170] Accordingly, the measurement frame 21M and the head base 26
can be formed easily from a material that has a low coefficient of
expansion. Furthermore, it is assumed that the lengths of the
measurement frame 21M and the head base 26 will differ as a result
of slight temperature variations caused by differences in the
coefficients of linear thermal expansion thereof. Even in such a
case, the head base 26 can be displaced smoothly along the plate 28
(the measurement frame 21M) and around the bolt 109A, and
consequently the head base 26 does not warp as a result of the
bimetal effect. Accordingly, the X heads 66 and the like can
measure the position of the wafer stage WST continuously with high
precision.
[0171] (2) In addition, the head base 26 is coupled via the vacuum
pads 111A, 111B (gas bearings) and the like in the state wherein it
is not displaced relative to the measurement frame 21M at the
position of the bolt 109A (the prescribed reference position).
Accordingly, the position of the head base 26 does not change
gradually.
[0172] (3) In addition, the head base 26 is coupled to the
measurement frame 21M so that it can be displaced in the directions
that link the bolts 109A, 109B. Accordingly, the head base 26 does
not gradually rotate.
[0173] Furthermore, the head base 26 may be linked to the
measurement frame 21M in the state wherein it can be displaced
using, for example, a leaf spring instead of a bolt.
Third Embodiment
[0174] The following explains a third embodiment of the present
invention, referencing FIG. 13 through FIG. 15. In the present
embodiment, the head base 26 is not coupled to the measurement
frame 21M via gas bearings as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 12,
but rather it is coupled more via a simpler flexural mechanism.
Constituent components in FIG. 13 through FIG. 15 that are the same
or similar to those in FIG. 12 are assigned the same symbols, and
the explanations thereof are omitted.
[0175] FIG. 13 shows an exposure apparatus 100B of the present
embodiment. In FIG. 13, the head base 26, whereto the X heads 66
and the like are fixed, is coupled to the bottom surface of the
measurement frame 21M via numerous rod shaped flexural members 113,
which are substantially disposed at prescribed intervals in the X
directions and the Y directions, in the state wherein the head base
26 can be displaced in directions along the front surface of the
plate 28 (wherein the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the like of
FIG. 5A are formed). In other words, the tip parts of the numerous
flexural members 113 (the end parts on the head base 26 side) can
be displaced within the ranges of their elastic deformations in
directions along the X scales 39X.sub.1, 39X.sub.2 and the
like.
[0176] FIG. 14 is an enlarged oblique view that shows part of the
measurement frame 21M and the head base 26 in FIG. 13. As shown in
FIG. 14, the flexural members 113 are rod shaped members, both ends
of which easily deform, wherein circumferential notched parts
(slotted parts) 113a, 113b are formed at the end parts thereof. In
addition, numerous openings 25M, 25, wherethrough the gas that is
supplied in a downflow passes, are formed in the measurement frame
21M and the head base 26. Other aspects of this configuration are
otherwise similar to that of the embodiment in FIG. 12.
[0177] In the present embodiment, the flexural members 113, which
are simple mechanisms, are used instead of a complicated mechanism
like a vacuum chuck mechanism to couple the measurement frame 21M
and the head base 26 in the state wherein deformation caused by
differences in the coefficients of linear thermal expansion can be
absorbed. In addition, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion
of the head base 26 is smaller than that of the measurement frame
21M. At this time, it is assumed that differences in both of the
coefficients of linear thermal expansion cause the measurement
frame 21M to extend longer than the head base 26 from the state
shown in part A in FIG. 15 to that shown in part B in FIG. 15 as a
result of temperature variations. Even in this case, the
deformation of the head base 26 (and, in turn, changes in the
positional relationships among the multiple X heads 66 and the
like) caused by elastic deformation of the numerous flexural
members 113 can be kept to a minimum. Accordingly, even in the case
wherein the measurement values of the X heads 66 in FIG. 13 are
switched, the position of the wafer stage WST can be measured with
high precision.
[0178] In addition, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of
the measurement frame 21M is larger than that of the head base 26,
which makes it possible to use a material, such as Invar, that can
be formed into a large member easily, which facilitates
manufacturing. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the
coefficient of linear thermal expansion of the main body part of
the wafer stage WST is smaller than or on the same order as that of
the head base 26.
[0179] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, instead of the
flexural members 113, it is also possible to use narrow, rod shaped
members (flexural members with simple structures) 114 (FIG. 16A) or
flexural members 115 (FIG. 16B), wherein slotted parts 115a are
formed in the X directions and slotted parts 115b are formed in the
Y directions of FIG. 13 at opposite end parts thereof,
respectively.
[0180] In addition, as shown in the plan view of FIG. 17, the
measurement frame 21M and the head base 26 may be coupled by:
multiple leaf springs 131 that are substantially parallel to the YZ
plane and are disposed so that they sandwich the projection unit PU
in the X directions; multiple leaf springs 132 that are
substantially parallel to the XZ plane and are disposed so that
they sandwich the projection unit PU in the Y directions; and the
flexural members 113, which are disposed substantially evenly at
other portions. Thereby, it is possible to couple the head base 26
to the measurement frame 21M more stably.
[0181] In the above-described embodiments, the scales 39X.sub.1,
39Y.sub.1 are fixed to the wafer stage WST side, and the encoder
heads 64, 66 are fixed to the measurement frame and the like.
However, in another embodiment as shown in FIG. 19, the encoder
heads 64, 66 can be fixed to the wafer stage WST side, and X scales
39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2 can be fixed to the measurement frame
21S.
[0182] Specifically, in the exposure apparatus 100C shown in FIG.
19, a flange part 40F of the lens barrel for the projection unit PU
(the projection optical system PL) is held by a mainframe (not
shown). A measurement frame 21S, which has a plate shape and has an
opening at the center portion thereof through which the projection
unit PU can be passed, is fixed to the bottom surface of the flange
part 40F. The measurement frame is made of same kind of a material
of the above-described measurement and the like that has a low
coefficient of linear thermal expansion. The two X scales
39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2 are disposed at the bottom surface of the
measurement frame 21S so that they sandwich the projection unit PU
in the Y directions, and each have a rectangular plate shape and a
grating(s) with a predetermined pitch in the X directions.
[0183] As shown in FIG. 20 that is a bottom view along A-A shown in
FIG. 19, two Y scales 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2 are disposed at the
bottom surface of the measurement frame 21S so that they sandwich
the projection unit PU in the X directions, and each have a
grating(s) with a predetermined pitch in the Y directions.
Protective glass members 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D have substantially
the same as and cover the X scales 39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2 and the Y
scales 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2, respectively. Each of the protective
glass members 132A, 132B, 132C, 132D is held by the measurement
frame 21S with attachments 133, 134 and with elastic force which
allows the movement of the scales 39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2,
39AY.sub.1, or 39AY.sub.2 as a result of the thermal deformation
thereof or the like. Furthermore, vacuum pads 111G, 111H are
disposed at the Y scales 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2 and along a
straight line LH, which is parallel to the X axis and passes
through the center of the optical axis AX of the projection unit PU
(the center of the exposure area), and vacuum pads 111E, 111F are
disposed at the X scales 39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2 and along a
straight line LV, which is parallel to the Y axis and passes
through the same.
[0184] The vacuum pads 111E-111H are connected to a suction
apparatus 110A, which includes a vacuum pump, via the holes in the
measurement frame 21S and via pipings 112E, 112F shown in FIG. 19
and the like. During the exposure, the scales 39AX.sub.1,
39AX.sub.2, 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2 are held to the measurement
frame 21S by the suction of the suction apparatus 110A via the
vacuum pads 111E-111H. Thus, the scales 39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2,
39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2 are secured by means of the vacuum pads
111E-111H; therefore, the deviation with respect to the center of
exposure area can be prevented, and highly positional measurement
with respect to the projection unit PU as the bases can be
achieved.
[0185] Two detection frames 135A, 135B extending in the Y
directions are secured so that they sandwich the stage main body 91
of the wafer stage WST in the Y directions. Two detection frames
135C, 135D (135D is not shown) extending in the X direction are
secured so that they sandwich the main body 91 in the X directions.
A plurality of X heads 66 that detect the X scales 39AX.sub.1,
39AX.sub.2, are provided with a predetermined pitch on the
detection frame 135A, 135B. A plurality of Y heads 64 that detect
the Y scales 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2, are provided with a
predetermined pitch on the detection frame 135C, 135C. When the
wafer stage WST moves in the X directions or the Y directions, the
scales 39AX.sub.1, 39AX.sub.2, 39AY.sub.1, 39AY.sub.2 are detects
by the plurality of X heads 66 and Y heads 64 with switching; as a
result, the position of the wafer stage WST can be measured with
high precision. It is preferable that the measurement frame
135A-135D be made of a material, which has a low coefficient of
linear thermal expansion such as Super Invar and the like.
[0186] Furthermore, when a microdevice, such as a semiconductor
device, is fabricated using the exposure apparatus according to the
abovementioned embodiments, it is fabricated as shown in FIG. 18
by, for example: a step 221 that designs the functions and
performance of the microdevice; a step 222 that fabricates a mask
(reticle) based on the design step; a step 223 that fabricates a
substrate, which is the base material of the device; a substrate
processing step 224 that includes, for example, a process that uses
the exposure apparatus 100 (projection exposure apparatus)
according to the embodiments discussed above to expose the
substrate with the pattern of the reticle, a process that develops
the exposed substrate, and a process that heats (cures) and etches
the developed substrate; a device assembling step 225 (comprising
fabrication processes, such as a dicing process, a bonding process,
and a packaging process); and an inspecting step 226.
[0187] In other words, the device fabricating method includes a
lithographic process, wherein the exposure apparatus according to
the abovementioned embodiments is used in the lithographic process.
At this time, even if the wafer stage moves at high speed, it is
unaffected by interferometer turbulence; furthermore, even if the
temperature fluctuates to a certain extent, the encoders can
measure the position of the wafer stage with high precision, which
makes it possible to improve exposure accuracy, e.g., overlay
accuracy, and to mass produce devices with high precision and high
throughput.
[0188] Furthermore, the present invention can also be adapted to,
for example, a step-and-scan scanning type projection exposure
apparatus (scanner) as well as a step-and-repeat projection
exposure apparatus (stepper and the like) and other fabrication
tools. Furthermore, the present invention can similarly be adapted
to exposure apparatuses other than the liquid immersion type, e.g.,
to a dry exposure type exposure apparatus.
[0189] In addition, the present invention is not limited to a
semiconductor device fabrication exposure apparatus, but can also
be adapted to: an exposure apparatus that is used for fabricating
displays, such as liquid crystal devices and plasma displays, and
that transfers a device pattern onto a glass plate; an exposure
apparatus that is used in the fabrication of thin film magnetic
heads and that transfers a device pattern onto a ceramic wafer; and
an exposure apparatus that is used for fabricating, for example,
image capturing devices (CCDs), organic electroluminescent devices,
micromachines, MEMS (microelectromechanical systems), and DNA
chips. In addition to microdevices, such as semiconductor devices,
the present invention can also be adapted to an exposure apparatus
that transfers a circuit pattern to, for example, a glass substrate
or a silicon wafer in order to fabricate a mask that is used by a
visible light exposure apparatus, an EUV exposure apparatus, or the
like.
[0190] Thus, the present invention is not limited to the
embodiments discussed above, and it is understood that variations
and modifications may be effected without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
[0191] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the
detectors are used to detect the scales that are provided to the
moveable member (or stage), and consequently there is no need to
provide optical paths with lengths that are on the same order as
the stroke of the movable member as in the case of a laser
interferometer, and it is possible to mitigate the effects of
fluctuations in the refractive index of the ambient gas. In
addition, if the scale of the moveable member deviates from the
detection target area of one of the detectors, measurement can
proceed by, for example, switching to another detector that is
capable of detecting that scale. At this time, the coefficient of
linear thermal expansion of the support member is smaller than that
of the moveable body or the base member, consequently, even if the
ambient temperature fluctuates, fluctuations in the positional
relationships among the multiple detectors are prevented, and it is
possible to reduce measurement error when switching between the
detectors. Accordingly, the positioning accuracy of the stage is
improved for the case of an exposure apparatus.
* * * * *