Patent ID: 6468021
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
An integrated system for transferring an article comprising:a conveyor for moving the article along a conveyor path; an elevator system having a lift device configured to engage the article carried by said conveyor and to raise the article above said conveyor, said lift device being movable between a stand-by position allowing movement of articles along said conveyor path past said lift device, and an actuated position with said lift device holding the article above said conveyor; a storage support assembly for supporting the article within a buffer zone; a displacement mechanism for moving the article between said actuated position of said lift device and said storage support assembly; a work station support assembly for supporting the article within a work station zone proximate to a work station; a transfer arm configured to move in a first direction and a second direction, said movement controlled by a first actuator and second actuator respectively; a gripper mounted on said transfer arm and adapted to engage the article; and a controller for controlling said first and second actuators, whereby selective movement of said transfer arm within said first and second directions transfers the article between said storage support assembly and said work station support assembly.