Patent ID: 6501070
Filing Date: 2002-12-31
Classification: H01J,H01L

Abstract:
In a front-opening interface mechanical standard (FIMS) system including a station fixture and a removable transport box, the transport box having a transport box mating feature and comprising a front-opening box cover and a removable box door that opens and closes the front opening of the box, a latch mechanism operative to releasably secure the transport box mating feature to the station fixture in response to rotation of an external latch key inserted into the transport box mating feature, comprising:a latch key assembly for coupling the station fixture and the transport box mating feature by a latch key to selectively engage the transport box mating feature to or disengage the transport box mating feature from the station fixture, the latch key being rotatable about an axis of rotation and movable in a direction along a longitudinal axis to securely hold the transport box mating feature in alignment against the station fixture when the transport box mating feature and station fixture are matably coupled; a latching mechanism operatively connected to the latch key to selectively rotate the latch key about the axis of rotation between a first angular position and a second angular position, the first angular position aligning the latch key and the transport box mating feature for matably coupling or uncoupling them; and a latch key pull back mechanism operatively connected to the latch key to move the latch key along the longitudinal axis.