Methods for fabricating spatial light modulators with hidden comb actuators
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of forming a comb actuator, the method comprising:
- a. depositing a first conductive layer;
b. patterning the first conductive layer to define a first comb;
c. depositing a first sacrificial layer over the first comb;
d. planarizing the first sacrificial layer to expose the first comb;
e. depositing a second conductive layer over the exposed first comb;
f. forming a mask on the second conductive layer, the mask defining a second comb; and
g. etching the second conductive layer through the mask to form the second comb.
8 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Described are methods for fabricating Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) actuators with hidden combs and hinges. The ability to hide the combs renders the actuators useful in digital micro-mirror devices. Comb actuators provide increased torque, which facilitates the use of stiffer, less fragile hinge structures. Also important, comb actuators do not require mechanical stops to define stable states, and thus avoid problems associated with physical contact. The actuators are infinitely variable through a range of angles.
-
Citations
16 Claims
-
1. A method of forming a comb actuator, the method comprising:
-
a. depositing a first conductive layer; b. patterning the first conductive layer to define a first comb; c. depositing a first sacrificial layer over the first comb; d. planarizing the first sacrificial layer to expose the first comb; e. depositing a second conductive layer over the exposed first comb; f. forming a mask on the second conductive layer, the mask defining a second comb; and g. etching the second conductive layer through the mask to form the second comb. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
-
-
9. A method of fabricating a spatial light modulator over an integrated-circuit substrate supporting a plurality of conductive traces, the method comprising:
-
a. forming a patterned insulating layer over the substrate, the patterned insulating layer patterned to define contact areas over the conductive traces; b. forming a first patterned conductive layer over the insulating layer and over a first of the contact areas, wherein the first patterned conductive layer is in electrical contact with a first of the conductive traces via the first contact area, and wherein the first patterned conductive layer includes a first set of comb teeth; c. forming a second patterned conductive layer over the insulating layer and over a second of the contact areas, wherein the second patterned conductive layer is in electrical contact with a second of the conductive traces via the second contact area, and wherein the second patterned conductive layer includes a second set of comb teeth, wherein the first and second sets of comb teeth are interdigitated from a perspective normal to the substrate; and d. forming a light-modulating layer over the first and second patterned conductive layers, the light-modulating layer including a light-modulating surface. - View Dependent Claims (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
-
Specification