Document Type
Patent
Publication Date
August 2009
Patent Number
7572573
Abstract
The present invention relates to maskless photolithography using a patterned light generator for creating 2-D and 3-D patterns on objects using etching and deposition techniques. In an embodiment, the patterned light generator uses a micromirror array to direct pattern light on a target object. In an alternate embodiment, the patterned light generator uses a plasma display device to generate and direct patterned light onto a target object. Specifically, the invention provides a maskless photolithography system and method for photo stimulated etching of objects in a liquid solution, patterning glass, and photoselective metal deposition. For photo stimulated etching of objects in a liquid solution, the invention provides a system and method for immersing a substrate in an etchant solution, exposing the immersed substrate to patterned light, and etching the substrate according to the pattern of incident light. For patterning photoreactive glass, the invention provides a system and method for exposing photosensitive or photochromic glass, and washing the target glass with rinse and acid etchant solutions. For photoselective metal deposition, the invention provides a system and method for coating and rinsing a substrate prior to exposure exposing the substrate to a patterned light generator to activate areas corresponding to the incident light pattern, and plating the substrate in the area activated by the light after exposure. By providing a maskless pattern generator, the invention advantageously eliminates the problems associated with using masks for photo stimulated etching, patterning glass, and photoselective metal deposition.
Application Number
11/343,594
Recommended Citation
Fries, David P., "Maskless photolithography for etching and deposition" (2009). USF Patents. 565.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/usf_patents/565
Assignees
University of South Florida
Filing Date
01/30/2006
Primary/U.S. Class
430/322
