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Abstract

A fabrication process is disclosed using process steps (S1-S18) similar to those of semiconductor integrated circuit fabrication to produce lateral-emitter field-emission devices and their arrays. In a preferred fabrication process for the simplified anode device, the following steps are performed: an anode film (70) is deposited; an insulator film (90) is deposited over the anode film; an ultra-thin conductive emitter film (100) is deposited over the insulator and patterned; a trench opening (160) is etched through the emitter and insulator, stopping at the anode film, thus forming and automatically aligning an emitting edge of the emitter; and means are provided for applying an electrical bias to the emitter and anode, sufficient to cause field emission of electrons from the emitting edge of the emitter to the anode. The anode film may comprise a phosphor (75) for a device specially adapted for use in a field emission display. The fabrication process may also include steps to deposit additional insulator films (130) and to deposit additional conductive films for control electrodes (140), which are automatically aligned with the emitter blade edge or tip (110). A fabrication process for forming an evacuated or gas-filled sealed chamber in a substrate is disclosed.

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First Claim