Patent ID: 6690993
Filing Date: 2004-02-10
Classification: G03F,Y10S

Abstract:
A reticle storage system comprising:a reticle rack in a linear row configuration having a series of lateral slots, each for storing a reticle, access to the reticles being provided on a lateral side of the rack; an enclosure for housing the rack, the enclosure having a series of doors for providing access to the reticles in the slots; an air circulation system for flowing filtered air past the reticles in the rack to prevent contaminants from accumulating on the reticles, the air circulation system capable of providing positive air pressure within the enclosure with one door open, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the enclosure through the open door; a robot positioned within the enclosure for removing reticles from and replacing reticles in the reticle rack, the robot including a drive system for driving the robot; and a controller for controlling the drive system of the robot, the controller calculating a profile of a commanded motion before said motion is performed, said motion being performed only when the controller determines that said motion is capable of being performed.