This invention relates to a method for real time monitoring and verifying
optical proximity correction (OPC) models and methods in production.
Prior to OPC is performed on the integrated circuit layout, a model
describing the optical, physical and chemical processes involving
lithography should be obtained accurately and precisely. In general, the
model is calibrated using the measurements obtained by running wafers
through the same lithography, patterning, and etch processes. In this
invention, a novel real time method for verifying and monitoring the
calibrated model on a production or monitor wafer is presented: optical
proximity corrected (OPC-ed) test and verification structures are placed
on scribe lines or cut lines of the production or monitor wafer, and with
pre-determined schedule, the critical dimensions and images of these test
and verification structures are monitored across wafer and across
exposure field.