Adjustable Dual-Gripper Robot for FOUP and Probe Card Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing gripping systems for semiconductor factories, such as probe cards and FOUPs, are cumbersome and difficult to transport manually, necessitating an improvement in work efficiency for handling and transporting these heavy objects.
Innovation Solution
A gripping apparatus and autonomous driving robot equipped with a base unit, first and second grippers, an adjusting unit, and a vertical driving unit, allowing for adjustable separation distances and precise gripping and transportation of objects like probe cards and FOUPs, utilizing a combination of sliding, axial rotation, and vertical movement mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling of probe cards is used, then human labor is required, but work efficiency is low and transportation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous mobile robot performs self-navigation and self-positioning to transport the probe card without human intervention. The robot autonomously moves from the storage location to the probe station, docks automatically, and completes the transportation task independently, eliminating the need for manual handling while improving work efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated robotic system equipped with sensors, controllers, and navigation capabilities. The robotic gripper mechanism substitutes human hands, and the autonomous navigation system replaces manual guidance, transforming the mechanical system into an automated one that improves both efficiency and ease of operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed separation distance grippers are used, then structure is simple, but adaptability to various object sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper employs adjustable separation distances between gripping portions, allowing the distance to be dynamically changed according to the size and shape of different objects. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the same gripper structure to adapt to various object sizes (probe cards, FOUPs) without requiring multiple fixed gripper designs, thus improving versatility while maintaining reasonable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the separation distance parameter of the gripper to match different object dimensions. By adjusting this key geometric parameter, the gripper can accommodate various object sizes and shapes. This parameter adjustment approach allows one gripper structure to serve multiple purposes, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and precise handling and transportation of heavy semiconductor components, improving work efficiency by allowing for autonomous movement and adjustable gripping mechanisms that accommodate various forms and sizes of objects.
Implementation Method 1
a screw unit extending in a vertical direction with respect to the base unit and having a first screw thread formed on a circumferential surface thereof
Implementation Method 2
an electric spring, in which one end is supported or connected to an end of the linear guide, and the other end is provided outside the plurality of first grippers to elastically press the first gripper
Implementation Method 3
a motor for rotating the screw unit
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of the gripping apparatus for gripping a gripping object provided with a head unit, in which a fitting groove is formed, of the present invention for achieving the above object comprises a base unit made of a frame, plate, box, or a combination thereof; a first gripper including a first distal end unit bent corresponding to the fitting groove, wherein a separation distance of the first distal end unit is adjusted at the base unit, and a plurality of first grippers facing each other are provided; a second gripper located outside the first gripper and including a second distal end unit bent toward a lower edge of the gripping object, wherein a separation distance of the second distal end unit is adjusted at the base unit, and a plurality of a second grippes facing each other are provided; an adjusting unit provided in the base unit and for adjusting a separation distance of the first distal end units of the plurality of first grippers and a separation distance of the second end units of the plurality of second grippers; and a vertical driving unit for manipulating the adjusting unit.