Gripper for Rotating Cleanroom Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting systems in cleanroom environments cannot rotate cleanroom containers such as FOUPs, FOSBs, or reticle containers, requiring manual rotation or separate devices, which compromises cleanliness and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and gripper arrangement that engages with a lifting unit connected to an overhead transport system, allowing torque transmission for rotating cleanroom containers using a gripper with engagement elements and a motor, eliminating the need for manual rotation or separate devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual rotation or separate rotation devices are used, then cleanroom containers can be rotated, but cleanliness is compromised and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is designed to perform multiple functions: both lifting/transporting cleanroom containers and rotating them. The gripper includes engagement elements that can both grip the container for lifting and engage with the container flange to transmit rotation torque, eliminating the need for separate rotation devices and manual operations in the cleanroom environment.
2Device complexity
If engagement elements are designed for both gripping and rotation engagement, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper is divided into distinct functional elements: gripping elements for holding the container during lifting, and separate engagement elements for transmitting rotation torque. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system, maintaining reliability without requiring multiple separate devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A gripper arrangement adapted for gripping a cleanroom container, such as a FOUP, FOSB or reticle container and a method therefore, includes: a gripper adapted to grip the cleanroom container; a lifting unit comprising a first motor for lifting the gripper; at least one cord connecting the gripper with the lifting unit, wherein the at least one cord is driven by the first motor; a second motor for rotating at least a portion of the gripper with respect to the lifting unit around the vertical axis; wherein the gripper comprises engagement elements and the lifting unit comprises complementary engagement elements adapted to engage with the engagement elements for preventing a rotation around the vertical axis of the gripper with respect to the lifting unit; wherein the gripper comprises an upper gripper element and a lower gripper element; wherein the lower gripper element is adapted for supporting the top flange of the cleanroom container; and the lower gripper element comprises an opening that can be passed over the upper flange of the cleanroom container and at least one recess formed at least partially around the opening for accommodating the upper flange of the cleanroom container.