Reusable cut mask for multiple layers

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 8875067
APP PUB NO 20140282287A1
SERIAL NO

13893424

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Abstract

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The present disclosure relates to a method of forming a reusable cut mask or trim mask that can be used for multiple design levels, and an associated apparatus. In some embodiments, the method is performed by determining positions of a plurality of mask cuts for a reusable cut mask or a reusable trim mask. Shapes are then routed along a routing path having a plurality of design levels. The routing path intersects one or more of the plurality of mask cuts at positions that form distinct shapes that connect nodes of an integrated chip sharing a same electric network. By routing shapes on a plurality of design levels to intersect one or more of the plurality of mask cuts, the cut masks can be reused between the plurality of levels, therefore decreasing mask costs during fabrication.

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Patent Owner(s)

  • TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY, LTD.

International Classification(s)

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Chen, Huang-Yu Zhudong Township, TW 57 871
Chen, Wen-Hao Hsin-Chu, TW 104 611
Hou, Yuan-Te Hsinchu, TW 79 822
Hsu, Chin-Hsiung Guanyin Township, TW 29 584

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