Patent ID: 6491330
Filing Date: 2002-12-10
Classification: H01L,Y10S

Abstract:
An edge gripping wafer handling apparatus for selectively securing and transporting wafers comprising:a paddle arm configured to be supported and moved by a wafer handling apparatus; a plurality of fixed fingers attached to said paddle arm operative to engage an edge of a wafer, wherein each fixed finger of said plurality of fixed fingers has a face comprising a beveled finger edge to slideably engage said wafer, a finger wafer notch operative to secure said wafer and a flexible portion extending toward said face and terminating beyond said finger wafer notch and before said beveled finger edge; a moving finger operable to engage said edge of said wafer through movement towards said plurality of fixed fingers; wherein only said edge, extending around a circumference of said wafer, is gripped by said moving finger and said plurality of fixed fingers and engaging results from said movement of said moving finger towards said fixed fingers.