Grid Rail Storing System With Detachable Rack Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing storing system for semiconductor manufacturing plants has limited flexibility in the installation of storage units, as the storage unit is not easily removable or repositionable, particularly in areas directly above load ports.
Innovation Solution
A storing system with a grid-patterned rail system allowing vehicles to travel in both directions, featuring detachable rack units with beam-like placement members that can be suspended from the rail, enabling flexible installation and removal of storage units without hindering vehicle travel or air currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the storage unit is provided as a single rack extending across all areas below the traveling rail, then the storage capacity is maximized, but the flexibility in installation, removal, and position change is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is divided into multiple rack units (first rack unit, second rack unit, etc.) that can be independently attached and detached from the traveling rail. Each rack unit corresponds to a specific area below the rail and can be selectively installed or removed without affecting other rack units, thus providing flexibility while maintaining overall storage capacity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the storage unit is made detachable from the traveling rail, then the flexibility in installation and removal is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable structure is achieved by segmenting the storage unit into independent rack units, each with its own attachment mechanism to the traveling rail. This segmentation allows for simple, modular attachment and detachment operations without requiring complex system-wide reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If the placement member is positioned directly below the area surrounded by rails, then the vehicle can efficiently deliver and receive articles through the opening area, but the air current flow may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The placement member is designed with a beam-like structure that has sufficient strength to support articles while maintaining openness underneath. This beam configuration allows air currents to pass through the openings beneath the beams, reducing obstruction while still providing stable article support at the required position for efficient vehicle delivery.
Data Source
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AI summary
A storing system includes : a traveling rail including a plurality of first rails extending in a first direction and a plurality of second rails extending in a second direction, the first rails and the second rails being disposed in a grid pattern on the same horizontal plane to form lengthwise and crosswise a plurality of opening areas each of which is surrounded by a pair of the first rails and a pair of the second rails; a vehicle including a traveling unit and a transfer unit; and a storage unit on which a FOUP is to be placed. The storage unit includes a plurality of rack units adjacent to each other. Each of the rack units includes a placement member on which the FOUP is to be placed, is provided such that the placement member is positioned directly below the corresponding opening area, and is detachable from the traveling rail.