초록 ▼

A self-contained modular processing apparatus is disclosed for processing workpieces, and in particular, silicon wafers. The apparatus is constructed of framed modules which plug into a service facility docking subassembly and interlock therewith to make up a complete modular processing system for w

A self-contained modular processing apparatus is disclosed for processing workpieces, and in particular, silicon wafers. The apparatus is constructed of framed modules which plug into a service facility docking subassembly and interlock therewith to make up a complete modular processing system for wafer processing. Each module may be provided with its own wafer transporting mechanism and includes a built-in CPU such that each module is an independent, stand-alone processing unit. Each processing unit, by being capable of independent operation, functions as a building block to configure a modular processing system capable of handling wafer flow in multiple directions while performing a multitude of processing functions or operations. Individual modules are arranged along a line of single fold symmetry such that a single transport mechanism may be employed for transferring wafers among adjacent modules.

대표청구항 ▼

A modular processing apparatus comprising a chassis having a pair of diagonal axes, a module attached to said chassis for performing at least one operation on a workpiece to be processed, transfer means attached to said chassis for transferring said workpiece from said module to a location remote th

A modular processing apparatus comprising a chassis having a pair of diagonal axes, a module attached to said chassis for performing at least one operation on a workpiece to be processed, transfer means attached to said chassis for transferring said workpiece from said module to a location remote therefrom for performing at least another operation on said workpiece, said module and said transfer means arranged along one of said axes and asymmetrically with respect to another of said axes, whereby the distance between said module and said transfer means is substantially equal to the distance between said transfer means and said location.