Patent ID: 6079927
Filing Date: 2000-06-27
Classification: H01L,Y10S

Abstract:
Buffer apparatus for use with a wafer processing system, comprising:an I/O port for loading and unloading wafer containers, each holding a plurality of wafers;a storage structure for storing up to a predetermined number of said wafer containers, said storage structure including one or more shelves for storage of said wafer containers, each of said shelves being movable between a storage position and an extended position for loading and unloading of said wafer containers;a container port for holding at least one wafer container during transfer of wafers to and between the wafer container and the processing system;a container transfer mechanism for transferring said wafer containers to and between said I/O port, said storage structure and said container port; anda wafer transfer mechanism for transferring wafers to and between the wafer container at said container port and the processing system.