Abstract:
A method for forming a MEMS device is disclosed, where a final release step is performed just prior to a wafer bonding step to protect the MEMS device from contamination, physical contact, or other deleterious external events. Without additional changes to the MEMS structure between release and wafer bonding and singulation, except for an optional stiction treatment, the MEMS device is best protected and overall process flow is improved. The method is applicable to the production of any MEMS device and is particularly beneficial in the making of fragile micromirrors.
Abstract:
A projection system, a spatial light modulator, and a method for forming a micromirror array such as for a projection display are disclosed. The spatial light modulator can have two substrates bonded together with one of the substrates comprising a micro-mirror array. The two substrates can be bonded at the wafer level after depositing a getter material and/or solid or liquid lubricant on one or both of the wafers if desired. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the substrates is a light transmissive substrate and a light absorbing layer is provided on the light transmissive substrate to selectively block light from passing through the substrate. The light absorbing layer can form a pattern, such as a frame around an array of micro-mirrors.
Abstract:
Processes for the removal of a layer or region from a workpiece material by contact with a process gas in the manufacture of a microstructure are enhanced by the ability to accurately determine the endpoint of the removal step. A vapor phase etchant is used to remove a material that has been deposited on a substrate, with or without other deposited structure thereon. By creating an impedance at the exit of an etching chamber (or downstream thereof), as the vapor phase etchant passes from the etching chamber, a gaseous product of the etching reaction is monitored, and the endpoint of the removal process can be determined. The vapor phase etching process can be flow through, a combination of flow through and pulse, or recirculated back to the etching chamber
Abstract:
A MEMS device is disclosed comprising: a substrate; a movable micromechanical element movable relative to the substrate; a connector and a hinge for allowing movement of the micromechanical element, wherein the connector is made of a material different than the hinge. In another embodiment of the invention, the connector has a conductivity greater than the hinge. In a further embodiment of the invention, the hinge provides at least 90% of the restoring force to the MEMS device, and the connector provides 10% or less of the restoring force. In a further embodiment of the invention, the connector and the hinge have different spring constants. In a still further embodiment of the invention, the connector experiences a lower strain at maximum deflection of the micromechanical element than the hinge.