SUBSTRATE TREATING APPARATUS

Disclosed is a substrate treating apparatus. In the substrate treating apparatus, a pusher is provided at a position accessible by a first transport mechanism, and a posture turning unit is provided at a position accessible by a center robot. A second transport mechanism receives substrates in a vertical posture held by the pusher, and delivers the substrates to the posture turning unit. The second transport mechanism includes two horizontal chucks configured to hold the substrates in the vertical posture while radially supporting two side portions of each of the substrates. The posture turning unit includes an upper and lower chucks for radially supporting an upper portion and a lower portion of each of the substrates in the vertical posture held by the two horizontal chucks to receive the substrates in the vertical posture from the two horizontal chucks, and upper and lower chuck rotation unit for rotating the upper and lower chucks around a horizontal axis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-151708 filed Sep. 22, 2022, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a substrate treating apparatus configured to perform treatment on substrates. Examples of substrates include semiconductor substrates, substrates for flat panel displays (FPDs), glass substrates for photomasks, substrates for optical disks, substrates for magnetic disks, ceramic substrates, and substrates for solar cells. Examples of the FPDs include liquid crystal display devices and organic electroluminescence (EL) display devices.

BACKGROUND ART

Examples of currently-used substrate treating apparatus include a substrate treating apparatus of a hybrid type provided with a batch-type processing module (batch processing unit) configured to perform treatment on a plurality of substrates collectively, and a single-wafer-type processing module (single-wafer processing unit) configured to perform treatment on the substrates treated by the batch-type processing module one by one. See, for example, Japanese Patent Publication (Translation of PCT Application) No. 2016-502275 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2021-064652.

The batch-type processing module performs treatment on a plurality of substrates in a vertical posture collectively, whereas the single-wafer-type processing module performs treatment on substrates in a horizontal posture one by one. Accordingly, in order for the single-wafer-type processing module to perform treatment on the substrates processed by the batch-type processing module, the substrate treating apparatus further includes a rotating mechanism configured to turn a posture of the substrates from vertical to horizontal.

Japanese Patent Publication (Translation of PCT Application) 2016-502275 discloses a rotating mechanism (posture turning mechanism) provided with a pedestal and two side walls for surrounding outer edges of substrates. The pedestal has a plurality of grooves for placing the substrates vertically. The two side walls each have a group of supporting portions protruding inward.

The two side walls are open when the rotating mechanism receives a plurality of substrates in the vertical posture from a vertical substrate transporting robot (batch substrate transport mechanism). Thereafter, the vertical substrate transporting robot places the substrates in the grooves of the pedestal vertically. Then, the two side walls are folded to grip the substrates. Then, the pedestal is rotated by 90 degrees around a horizontal axis orthogonal to a direction where the substrates in the vertical posture are aligned. Thereby, the substrates are arranged horizontally within the rotating mechanism and are supported by the supporting portions of the two side walls.

Moreover, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2021-064652 discloses a substrate treating apparatus provided with a main transport mechanism (batch substrate transport mechanism), a pusher, and a posture turning mechanism (posture turning unit). Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-056341 discloses a substrate treating apparatus provided with a posture turning mechanism.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

The rotating mechanism disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication (Translation of PCT Application) 2016-502275 rotates the pedestal by 90 degrees around the horizontal axis orthogonal to the direction where the substrates in the vertical posture are aligned, thereby turning the substrates to horizontal. Then, a horizontal substrate transporting robot (single-wafer substrate transport mechanism) takes substrates from between the two side walls for transporting the substrates to the single-wafer module. At this time, it is sometimes hard for the horizontal substrate transporting robot to receive the substrates in a horizontal posture when the rotating mechanism receives the substrates in a vertical posture from the vertical substrate transporting robot (batch substrate transport mechanism) at a position far apart from the horizontal substrate transporting robot.

Moreover, the posture turning mechanism (posture turning unit) disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-056341 receives substrates from a main transport mechanism (batch substrate transport mechanism) via a pusher. In this regard, it is sometimes preferred that the posture turning mechanism receives the substrates from the main transport mechanism directly.

The present invention has been made regarding the state of the art noted above, and its one object is to provide a substrate treating apparatus where a single-wafer substrate transport mechanism can easily access a plurality of substrates which a posture turning unit receives from a batch substrate transport mechanism and whose posture is turned horizontal by the posture turning unit.

Solution to Problem

The present invention is constituted as stated below to achieve the above object. One aspect of the present invention provides a substrate treating apparatus for successively performing batch treatment for processing a plurality of substrates collectively and single-wafer treatment for processing the substrates one by one. The substrate treating apparatus includes: a batch process tank configured to process the plurality of substrates collectively, a first batch substrate transport mechanism configured to transport the substrates in a vertical posture collectively to the batch process tank, a single-wafer processing chamber configured to perform treatment on the substrates one by one, a single-wafer substrate transport mechanism configured to transport the substrates in a horizontal posture one by one to the single-wafer processing chamber, and a posture turning mechanism configured to turn a posture of the substrates in the vertical posture, on which the batch treatment is performed, to the horizontal posture. The posture turning mechanism includes: a substrate holder that is provided at a position accessible by the first batch substrate transport mechanism, and is configured to receive the substrates in the vertical posture, on which the batch treatment is performed, from the first batch substrate transport mechanism collectively and hold the substrates, a posture turning unit that is provided at a position accessible by the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism and configured to turn a posture of the substrates from vertical to horizontal collectively, and a second batch substrate transport mechanism that is movable between the substrate holder and the posture turning unit and configured to receive the substrates in the vertical posture held by the substrate holder and deliver the substrates to the posture turning unit. The second batch substrate transport mechanism includes two horizontal chucks configured to hold the substrates in the vertical posture while radially supporting two lateral side portions on an outer edge of each of the substrates in the vertical posture held by the substrate holder. The posture turning unit includes an upper chuck and a lower chuck capable of radially supporting an upper portion and a lower portion on the outer edge of each of the substrates in the vertical posture held by the two horizontal chucks to receive the substrates in the vertical posture from the two horizontal chucks, and an upper and lower chuck rotation unit configured to rotate the upper chuck and the lower chuck around a horizontal axis orthogonal to an alignment direction of the substrates in the vertical posture held by the upper chuck and the lower chuck for turning a posture of the substrates received from the two horizontal chucks from vertical to horizontal. The single-wafer substrate transport mechanism takes the substrates, held by the upper chuck and the lower chuck, in the horizontal posture one by one, and transports the taken substrates to the single-wafer processing chamber.

With the substrate treating apparatus according to the aspect of the present invention, the upper chuck and the lower chuck of the posture turning unit support the upper portion and the lower portion on the outer edge of each of the substrates in the vertical posture held by the two horizontal chucks of the second batch substrate transport mechanism. Accordingly, the posture turning unit can receive the substrates directly from the two horizontal chucks of the second batch substrate transport mechanism. Moreover, the substrate holder is provided at a position accessible by the first batch substrate transport mechanism, and the posture turning unit is provided at a position accessible by the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism. Accordingly, the second batch substrate transport mechanism can transport the substrates from the substrate holder to the posture turning unit even when the substrate holder receives the substrates from the first batch substrate transport mechanism at a position far away from the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism. Accordingly, the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism can easily access the posture turning unit.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the two horizontal chucks each have a plurality of V-shaped holding grooves for holding the substrates in the vertical posture individually, that the upper chuck has a plurality of first horizontal guide grooves each having a width larger than a thickness of the substrates for housing the outer edge of each of the substrates, and that the lower chuck has a plurality of second horizontal guide grooves each having a width larger than the thickness of the substrates for housing the outer edge of each of the substrates.

The two horizontal chucks can hold the substrates in the vertical posture with the V-shaped holding grooves, achieving prevention of contact of two adjacent substrates. This can prevent damages on the substrates, for example. Moreover, the first horizontal guide grooves and the second horizontal guide grooves each have the width larger than the thickness of the substrates. Accordingly, since a space is generated for lifting the substrates when the posture of the substrates is turned to horizontal and then the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism takes the substrates from the upper chuck and the lower chuck, the substrates can be taken with no load thereon.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning unit further includes two auxiliary chucks provided on both sides of the lower chuck along a circumferential direction of the substrates, that the two auxiliary chucks each include a plurality of second V-shaped holding grooves for holding the substrates in the vertical posture, that the two auxiliary chucks each house the outer edges of the substrates in the second V-shaped holding grooves for holding the substrates in the vertical posture when the upper chuck and the lower chuck hold the substrates in the vertical posture, and that the two auxiliary chucks each take the substrates from the second V-shaped holding grooves and move apart from the substrates to a position where the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism is not prevented from taking of the substrates when the upper chuck and the lower chuck hold the substrates in the horizontal posture.

When the upper chuck and the lower chuck hold the substrates in the vertical posture, the two auxiliary chucks in a closed state hold the substrates in the vertical posture, achieving prevention of contact of two adjacent substrates. Moreover, the two auxiliary chucks are in an opened state when the substrates in the horizontal posture are taken from the upper chuck and the lower chuck without preventing taking of the substrates by the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning unit further includes a relative moving unit configured to move the two auxiliary chucks relatively to the upper chuck and the lower chuck in an alignment direction where the substrates are aligned, that the first horizontal guide grooves have a plurality of mounting surfaces on which the substrates in the horizontal posture are placed individually, and that, when the posture turning unit turns a posture of the substrates to horizontal, the relative moving unit moves the two auxiliary chucks relatively such that the substrates in the vertical posture held by the second V-shaped holding grooves are brought into contact to the mounting surfaces individually. This can suppress particles generated when the substrates are moved and contact in posture turning.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning mechanism further includes a stand-by tank configured to store a liquid in which the substrates held by the substrate holders are immersed. If the substrates are dried before the dry treatment in the single-wafer processing chamber, substrate pattern collapse occurs. However, the present invention can prevent drying of the substrates held by the substrate holder.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning mechanism further includes a holder nozzle configured to supply a liquid in a shower state or in a mist state to the substrates held by the substrate holder. If the substrates are dried before the dry treatment in the single-wafer processing chamber, substrate pattern collapse occurs. However, the present invention can prevent drying of the substrates held by the substrate holder.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning mechanism further includes a posture turning nozzle configured to supply a liquid in a shower state or in a mist state to the substrates held by the upper chuck and the lower chuck of the posture turning unit. If the substrates are dried before the dry treatment in the single-wafer processing chamber, substrate pattern collapse occurs. However, the present invention can prevent drying of the substrates held by the upper chuck and the lower chuck of the posture turning unit.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the posture turning mechanism further includes a rotator configured to rotate the substrate holder around a vertical axis. The substrates in any directions can be delivered to the second batch substrate transport mechanism. In addition, the substrates in the horizontal posture after posture turning can be brought into any directions.

Moreover, it is preferred in the aspect of the substrate treating apparatus described above that the batch process tank and the posture turning mechanism are arranged in a horizontal first direction, and that the second batch substrate transport mechanism transports the substrates from the substrate holder in a horizontal second direction orthogonal to the first direction. When the batch process tank and its surrounding components are elongated in the second direction, the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism is sometimes hard to access. Here, the second batch substrate transport mechanism can move in the second direction, whereby the posture turning unit can approach the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism. Accordingly, the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism can transport the substrates easily.

Moreover, it is preferred in the substrate treating apparatus described above that the two horizontal chucks are each provided with two or more V-shaped holding grooves configured to hold two or more substrates set in advance from the substrates, and that the second batch substrate transport mechanism pulls out the two or more substrates from the substrates in the vertical posture held by the substrate holder with use of the two horizontal chucks. The second batch substrate transport mechanism can pull out the two or more substrates from the substrates held by the substrate holder, and transport the two or more substrates.

Moreover, it is preferred in the substrate treating apparatus described above that the second batch substrate transport mechanism can switch the two horizontal chucks between a first pattern and a second pattern, that, when the two horizontal chucks have the first pattern, the second batch substrate transport mechanism pulls out one or more substrates, set in advance, from the substrates in the vertical posture held by the substrate holder, and that, when the two horizontal chucks have the second pattern, the second batch substrate transport mechanism pulls out one or more substrates, set in advance and different from the one or more substrates pulled out with the first pattern, from the substrates in the vertical posture held by the substrate holder. The second batch substrate transport mechanism can pull out and transport one or more substrates, different from one or more substrates pulled out with the different pattern, from the substrates held by the substrate holder.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

With the substrate treating apparatus according to the present invention, the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism can easily access to a plurality of substrates which the posture turning unit receives from the batch substrate transport mechanism and whose posture is turned horizontal.

FIRST EMBODIMENT

A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.FIG.1is a plan view schematically illustrating a configuration of a substrate treating apparatus1according to a first embodiment of the present invention.FIG.2is a side view of a collective transport mechanism HTR.FIGS.3A to3Fare each a side view for explanation of a posture turning unit and a pusher mechanism in a transferring block.

1. Overall Configuration

Reference is made toFIG.1. A substrate treating apparatus1includes a stocker block3, a transferring block5, and a treating block7. The stocker block3, the transferring block5, and the treating block7are arranged in this order in a horizontal direction.

The substrate treating apparatus1performs chemical liquid treatment, cleaning treatment, dry treatment, and the like, for example, on the substrates W. The substrate treating apparatus1performs batch treatment and single-wafer treatment to substrates W. That is, the substrate treating apparatus1performs the batch treatment to the substrates W, and then performs the single-wafer treatment to the substrates W. The batch treatment is a process system of performing treatment collectively on a plurality of substrates W. The batch treatment is a process system of performing treatment collectively on a plurality of substrates W.

In the present specification, the direction in which stocker block, the stocker block3, the transferring block5, and the treating block7are arranged is referred to as a “front-back direction X” for convenience. The front-back direction X is horizontal. One direction of the front-back direction X from the transferring block5to the stocker block3is referred to as “forward”. The direction opposite to the forward direction is referred to as “rearward”. A horizontal direction orthogonal to the front-back direction X is referred to as a “transverse direction Y”. Moreover, one direction of the transverse direction Y is referred to as a “rightward direction” appropriately. The direction opposite to the rightward direction is referred to as “leftward”. The perpendicular direction relative to the horizontal direction is referred to as a “vertical direction Z”. For reference, the drawings show front, rear, right, left, up, and down, as appropriate, for example.

The stocker block3accommodates at least one carrier C. One or more (e.g., two) load ports9are provided in the stocker block3. The stocker block3includes a carrier transport mechanism (robot)11and shelves13.

The carrier transport mechanism11transports the carrier C between the load port9and the shelf13. The carrier transport mechanism11includes a gripper configured to grip a projected portion on an upper face of the carrier C, or a hand configured to support the carrier C while contacting a bottom face of the carrier C. The shelf13is classified into a shelf13A for taking and housing the substrates W and a shelf13B for storage.

The shelf13A adjoins the transferring block5. The shelf13A may be provided with a mechanism for attaching and detaching a lid of the carrier C. At least one shelf13A is provided. The shelf13A places the carrier C thereon. The carrier C accommodates a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) substrates W in a horizontal posture at a predetermined pitch (e.g., a pitch of 10 mm) in the vertical direction Z. Here, the substrates W are aligned in a thickness direction thereof. A front opening unify pod (FOUP) is used as the carrier C. The FOUP is a sealing container. The carrier C may be an opened container, which type is not specified.

The transferring block5adjoins rearward X of the stocker block3. The transferring block5includes a collective transport mechanism (substrate handling mechanism) HTR and a first posture turning mechanism15.

The collective transport mechanism (robot) HTR is provided rightward Yin the transferring block5. The collective transport mechanism HTR transports a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) substrates W in a horizontal posture collectively. The collective transport mechanism HTR takes and accommodates the substrates W collectively from and into the carrier C placed on the shelf13A. Moreover, the collective transport mechanism HTR is configured to deliver the substrates W collectively to and from the first posture turning mechanism15and to and from a buffer unit33mentioned later. That is, the collective transport mechanism HTR can transport the substrates W among the carrier C placed on the shelf13A, the first posture turning mechanism15, and the buffer unit33.

Reference is made toFIG.2. The collective transport mechanism HTR includes a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) hands17. InFIG.2, the collective transport mechanism HTR includes three hands17for convenience of illustration. The hands17each hold one substrate W.

Moreover, the collective transport mechanism HTR includes a hand supporting portion19, an advancing and withdrawing portion20, and a lifting and rotating portion21. The hand supporting portion19supports a plurality of hands17. Accordingly, the hands17are moved integrally. The advancing and withdrawing portion20causes the hands17to advance and withdraw via the hand supporting portion19. The lifting and rotating portion21rotates the advancing and withdrawing portion20around a vertical axis AX1, thereby rotating the hands17and the like around the vertical axis AX1. Moreover, the lifting and rotating portion21moves the advancing and withdrawing portion20upward and downward, thereby moving the hands17and the like upward and downward. The lifting and rotating portion21is fixed on the floor. That is, the lifting and rotating portion21does not move in the horizontal direction. Here, the advancing and withdrawing portion20and the lifting and rotating portion21each include an electric motor. Here, the collective transport mechanism HTR may include another hand, not shown, for transporting one substrate W in addition to the hands17and the hand supporting portion19.

Reference is made toFIG.1. The first posture turning mechanism15turns a posture of the substrates W collectively from horizontal to vertical. The first posture turning mechanism15includes a posture turning unit23and a pusher mechanism25. InFIG.1, the collective transport mechanism HTR, the posture turning unit23, and the pusher mechanism25are arranged leftward Y in this order.FIGS.3A to3Fare each a view illustrating the first posture turning mechanism15.

As shown inFIGS.1and3A, the posture turning unit23includes a support base23A, one-paired horizontal holders23B, one-paired vertical holders23C, and a rotation driving portion23D. The one-paired horizontal holders23B and the one-paired vertical holders23C are provided on the support base23A. The horizontal holders23B and the vertical holders23C receive the substrates W transported by the collective transport mechanism HTR. When the substrates W are in the horizontal posture, the one-paired horizontal holders23B support the substrates W from below while contacting a lower face of each of the substrates W. In contrast to this, when the substrates W are in the vertical posture, the one-paired vertical holders23C hold the substrates W.

The rotation driving portion23D supports the support base23A rotatably around a horizontal axis AX2. Moreover, the rotation driving portion23D rotates the support base23A around the horizontal axis AX2, whereby a posture of the substrates W held by the holders23B and23C is turned from horizontal to vertical.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and3F, the pusher mechanism25includes a pusher25A, a lifting and rotating portion25B, a horizontally moving portion25C, and a rail25D. The pusher25A supports each lower part of plurality of (e.g., fifty) substrates Win the vertical posture. Here inFIGS.3A to3F, the pusher25A is configured so as to be able to support six substrates W for convenience of illustration.

The lifting and rotating portion25B is connected to a lower face of the pusher25A. The lifting and rotating portion25B expands and contracts, thereby moving the pusher25A in the up-down direction. Moreover, the lifting and rotating portion25B rotates the pusher25A around a vertical axis AX3. The horizontally moving portion25C supports the lifting and rotating portion25B. The horizontally moving portion25C moves the pusher25A and the lifting and rotating portion25B horizontally along the rail25D. The rail25D is formed so as to extend in the transverse direction Y. The rotation driving portion23D, the lifting and rotating portion25B, and the horizontally moving portion25C each include an electric motor.

Description is now made of operation of the first posture turning mechanism15. Batch process tanks BT1to BT6, mentioned later, in the treatment block7each perform treatment on fifty substrates W for two carriers C, for example, collectively. The first posture turning mechanism15turns a posture of the fifty substrates W by twenty-five. Moreover, the first posture turning mechanism15arranges the substrates W at a predetermined pitch (e.g., a half pitch) in a face-to-face system. Here, a half pitch is a pitch of 5 mm, for example. The pusher mechanism25transports the fifty substrates W to a first transport mechanism WTR1.

Here, twenty-five substrates W in a first carrier C are to be described as substrates W1in a first substrate group. Twenty-five substrates W in a second carrier C are to be described as substrates W2in a second substrate group. Moreover, description is made inFIGS.3A to3Fthat the number of substrates W1in the first substrate group is three, and the number of substrates W2in the second substrate group is three for convenience of illustration. Moreover, when no particular distinction is made between the substrate W1and the substrate W2, the substrate W1and the substrate W2are described as a “substrate W”.

Reference is made toFIG.3A. The posture turning unit23receives twenty-five substrates W1in the first substrate group, that are transported by the collective transport mechanism HTR, with the holders23B,23C. At this time, the twenty-five substrates W1are in a horizontal posture, and device faces thereof are directed upward. The twenty-five substrates W1are arranged at a predetermined pitch (full pitch). Here, a full pitch is a pitch of 10 mm, for example. The full pitch is also called a normal pitch.

Here, a half pitch is half the full pitch. Moreover, the device face of the substrate W (W1, W2) is a face where electronic circuits are formed, and is called a “front face”. Moreover, a back face of the substrate W is a face where no electronic circuits are formed. A face opposite to the device face corresponds to the back face.

Reference is made toFIG.3B. The posture turning unit23rotates the holders23B,23C by 90 degrees around a horizontal axis AX2to turn a posture of the twenty-five substrates W1from horizontal to vertical. Reference is made toFIG.3C. The pusher mechanism25moves the pusher25A upward to a position higher than the holders23B,23C of the posture turning unit23. Accordingly, the pusher25A receives the twenty-five substrates W from the holders23B,23C. The twenty-five substrates W1held by the pusher25A are directed leftward Y. Here inFIGS.3A to3F, a direction of the device face of the substrate W is denoted by an arrow AR.

Reference is made toFIG.3D. The pusher mechanism25rotates the twenty-five substrates W in the vertical posture by 180 degrees around the vertical axis AX3. Accordingly, the twenty-five substrates W1are reversed to be directed rightward Y. Moreover, the reversed twenty-five substrates W1are moved leftward Y from a position before the reverse by a half pitch (e.g., 5 mm). Moreover, the holders23B,23C of the posture turning unit23are rotated by −90 degrees around the horizontal axis AX2such that next substrates W2are receivable. Thereafter, the posture turning unit23receives twenty-five substrates W2in a second substrate group, that are transported from the collective transport mechanism HTR, with the holders23B,23C. At this time, the twenty-five substrates W2are in a horizontal posture, and device faces thereof are directed upward. Here, the posture turning unit23and the pusher mechanism25operate so as not to interfere each other.

Reference is made toFIG.3E. The pusher mechanism25moves downward the pusher25A, holding the twenty-five substrates W1in the first substrate group, to a retreating position. Thereafter, the posture turning unit23turns a posture of the twenty-five substrates W2from horizontal to vertical. The twenty-five substrates W2whose posture is turned are directed leftward Y. Reference is made toFIG.3F. Thereafter, the pusher mechanism25moves upward the pusher25A, holding the twenty-five substrates W2in the second substrate group. Accordingly, the pusher mechanism25also receives the twenty-five substrates W2from the posture turning unit23.

Accordingly, the pusher25A holds fifty substrates W (W1, W2) in the first substrate group and the second substrate group. For the fifty substrates W, the twenty-five substrates W1and the twenty-five substrates W2are alternately arranged one by one. The fifty substrates W are arranged at a half pitch (e.g., 5 mm). Moreover, the twenty-five substrates W1are directed in a reverse direction to the twenty-five substrates W2. Consequently, the fifty substrates W are arranged in a face-to-face system. That is, for adjacent two substrates W1, W2, two device faces thereof (or two back faces) face each other.

Thereafter, the pusher mechanism25moves the pusher25A, holding the fifty substrates W, to a substrate delivery position PP below one-paired chucks49,50of the first transport mechanism WTR1along the rail25D.

The treating block7adjoins the transferring block5. The treating block7is located rearward X of the transferring block5. The treating block7includes a batch treatment region R1, a single-wafer transportation region R2, a single-wafer treatment region R3, and a batch substrate transport region R4. The substrate treating apparatus1further includes an electrical parts installation region R5.

The batch treatment region R1adjoins the transferring block5, the single-wafer transportation region R2, and the batch substrate transport region R4. Moreover, the batch treatment region R1is provided between the single-wafer transportation region R2and the batch substrate transport region R4. The batch treatment region R1has a first end side adjoining the transferring block5, and a second end side extending in a direction so as to be apart from the transferring block5, i.e., rearward X.

The batch treatment region R1contains six batch process tanks BT1to BT6and a second posture turning mechanism31, for example. The six batch process tanks BT1to BT6are arranged in line in the front-back direction X where the batch treatment region R1extends. Moreover, the second posture turning mechanism31is provided opposite to the transferring block5across the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6. That is, the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6are arranged between the transferring block5and the second posture turning mechanism31. Moreover, the second posture turning mechanism31(pusher mechanism61) is arranged on an extension line of the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6. Note that the number of batch process tanks is not limited to six, and the number only needs to be plural.

The six batch process tanks BT1to BT6each perform immersion treatment on a plurality of substrates W in the vertical posture collectively. For example, the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6is formed by four chemical liquid process tanks BT1to BT4and two water cleaning process tanks BT5and BT6. Specifically, the two chemical liquid process tanks BT1and BT2and the water cleaning process tank BT5are set as one pair. Then, the two chemical liquid process tanks BT3and BT4and the water cleaning process tank BT6are set as another pair.

The four chemical liquid process tanks BT1to BT4each perform etching treatment with chemical. A phosphoric acid liquid is used as the chemical, for example. The chemical liquid process tank BT1stores the chemical supplied from a chemical liquid jet pipe, not shown. The chemical liquid jet pipe is provided in an inner wall of the chemical liquid process tank BT1. The three chemical liquid process tanks BT2to BT4are each configured in the same manner as the chemical liquid process tank BT1.

The two water cleaning process tanks BT5and BT6each perform deionized water cleaning treatment by cleaning off the chemical, adhered to the substrates W, with pure water. The deionized water is, for example, deionized water (DIW). The two water cleaning process tanks BT5and BT6each store deionized water supplied from a cleaning liquid jet pipe, not shown. The cleaning liquid jet pipe is provided in inner walls of the water cleaning process tanks BT5and BT6.

The six batch process tanks BT1to BT6contain six lifters LF1to LF6, respectively. For example, the lifter LF1holds the substrates W arranged at a predetermined pitch (half pitch) in the vertical posture. Moreover, the lifter LF1moves the substrates W upward and downward between a treating position inside of the batch process tank (chemical liquid process tank) BT1and a delivery position above the batch process tank BT1. The other lifters LF2to LF6is configured in the same manner as the lifter LF1.

The second posture turning mechanism31collectively turns a posture of the substrates W, on which batch treatment is performed, from vertical to horizontal entirely or partially. Detailed description is made later of the second posture turning mechanism31.

The single-wafer transportation region R2adjoins the transferring block5, the batch treatment region R1, the single-wafer treatment region R3, and the electrical parts installation region R5. Moreover, the single-wafer transportation region R2is provided between the batch treatment region R1and the single-wafer treatment region R3. The single-wafer transportation region R2has a first end side adjoining the transferring block5. Moreover, the single-wafer transportation region R2has a second end side extending in a direction so as to be apart from the transferring block5, i.e., rearward X.

The single-wafer transportation region R2contains a center robot CR and the buffer unit33. The center robot CR transports the substrates among the second posture turning mechanism31, single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4, mentioned later, and the buffer unit33. For example, the center robot CR transports the substrates W in the horizontal posture one by one to the single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4individually. The center robot CR corresponds to the single-wafer substrate transport mechanism in the present invention.

The center robot CR includes two hands35, an advancing and withdrawing portion37, a lifting and rotating portion39, and a horizontally moving unit41(including a guide rail). The two hands35each hold one substrate W in a horizontal posture.

The advancing and withdrawing portion37supports the hands35movably, and moves the hands35forward and rearward individually. The lifting and rotating portion39rotates the hands35and the advancing and withdrawing portion37around a vertical axis AX13. Moreover, the lifting and rotating portion39moves the hands35and the advancing and withdrawing portion37upward and downward. The guide rail is provided on a floor of the single-wafer transportation region R2along a direction where the single-wafer transportation region R2extends. The horizontally moving unit41moves the hands35, the advancing and withdrawing portion37and the like along the guide rail in the front-back direction X. Here, the advancing and withdrawing portion37, the lifting and rotating portion39, and the horizontally moving unit41each include an electric motor.

For example, the advancing and withdrawing portion37moves the two hands forward to take the substrates W from the second posture turning mechanism31. Then, the advancing and withdrawing portion37may move one of the hands35, holding one substrate W, forward to transport the one substrate W to one of the single-wafer processing chambers. Here, the center robot CR may include one hand35or three or more hands35. When the center robot CR includes three or more hands35, the center robot CR moves the three or more hands35forward and rearward individually.

The buffer unit33includes a plurality of mount shelves. The mount shelves are in a horizontal posture. Each of the mount shelves is capable of placing one substrate W thereon. The buffer unit33places the substrates W in the horizontal posture at a predetermined pitch (full pitch) in the vertical direction Z. That is, the mount shelves are arranged at a predetermined pitch (full pitch) in the vertical direction Z. The buffer unit33is configured so as to place at least twenty-five substrates W that the collective transport mechanism HTR can transport. The buffer unit33is configured to be capable of placing fifty substrates W, for example.

Here as specifically shown inFIG.1, the buffer unit33is arranged across the transferring block5and the single-wafer transportation region R2. That is, the buffer unit33is provided on a boundary between the transferring block5and the single-wafer transportation region R2. Moreover, the buffer unit33may be provided in either the transferring block5or the single-wafer transportation region R2only. Accordingly, the buffer unit33only need to be provided fixedly in any of the boundary between the transferring block5and the single-wafer transportation region R2, the transferring block5, or the single-wafer transportation region R2. Since the buffer unit33is not moved but is provided fixedly, the buffer unit33and its surrounding components can be configured simply.

The single-wafer treatment region R3adjoins the single-wafer transportation region R2and the electrical parts installation region R5. The single-wafer treatment region R3has a first end side positioned close to the transferring block5via the electrical parts installation region R5. In the electrical parts installation region R5, electric circuits and a controller59, mentioned later, necessary for the substrate treating apparatus1are provided. Moreover, the single-wafer treatment region R3has a second end side extending in a direction so as to be apart from the transferring block5, i.e., rearward X. Moreover, the single-wafer treatment region R3is provided along the batch treatment region R1and the single-wafer transportation region R2.

A plurality of (e.g., four) single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4are provided in the single-wafer treatment region R3. The four single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4are arranged in the front-back direction X where the single-wafer treatment region R3extends. The single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4are each configured to perform treatment on the substrates W one by one. A first single-wafer processing chamber SW1is positioned farthest from the transferring block5. A second single-wafer processing chamber SW2is arranged forward X of the first single-wafer processing chamber SW1. A third single-wafer processing chamber SW3is arranged forward X of the second single-wafer processing chamber SW2. A fourth single-wafer processing chamber SW4is arranged forward X of the third single-wafer processing chamber SW3. The single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4may be formed in plural steps. For example, twelve single-wafer processing chambers may be arranged four in the front-back direction X (horizontal direction) by three in the vertical direction Z.

For example, the single-wafer processing chambers SW1, SW2each include a rotating unit45and a nozzle47. The rotating unit45includes a spin chuck configured to hold one substrate W in a horizontal posture, and an electric motor configured to rotate the spin chuck around a vertical axis passing through the center of the substrate W. The spin chuck may hold a lower face of the substrate W by vacuum adsorption. Moreover, the spin chuck includes three or more chuck pins for gripping an outer edge of the substrate W.

The nozzle47supplies a treatment liquid to the substrate W held by the rotating unit45. The nozzle47moves between a standby position apart from the rotating unit and a supply position above the rotating unit45. Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or deionized water is used, for example, as the treatment liquid. The single-wafer processing chambers SW1, SW2may each perform cleaning treatment on the substrates W with deionized water, and then perform preliminary dry treatment with IPA, or may form an IPA liquid film on top faces of the substrates W, for example.

The single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4each perform dry treatment with supercritical fluid, for example. A carbon dioxide liquid is used as the fluid, for example. The single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4each include a chamber body (vessel)48, a supporting tray, and a lid. The chamber body48includes a treating space provided therein, an opening through which the substrates W enter, a supply port, and an exhaust port. The substrates W are accommodated into the treating space while being supported by the support tray. The lid closes the opening of the chamber body48. For example, the single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4each make the fluid into a supercritical state and supply the supercritical fluid from the supply port into the treating space of the chamber body48. At this time, gas within the treating space of the chamber body48is exhausted from the exhaust port. By the supercritical fluid supplied into the treating space, dry treatment is performed on the substrates W.

The supercritical state is obtained by bringing fluid into critical temperature and pressure inherent in the fluid. Specifically, when the fluid is carbon dioxide, a critical temperature is 31 degrees and critical pressure is 7.38 MPa. Under the supercritical state, the fluid has a surface tension of approximately zero. Accordingly, patterns of the substrate W are not affected by a gas-liquid interface. Consequently, pattern collapse is unlikely to occur in the substrate W.

4-4. Batch Substrate Transport Region R4

The batch substrate transport region R4adjoins the transferring block5and the batch treatment region R1. The batch substrate transport region R4is provided along the batch treatment region R1. The batch substrate transport region R4extend in the front-back direction X. The four regions R1, R2, R3, R4are provided so as to extend in parallel to one another.

The batch substrate transport region R4has the first transport mechanism (robot) WTR1. That is, the batch substrate transport region R4is provided with the first transport mechanism WTR1. The first transport mechanism WTR1transports a plurality of (e.g., fifty) substrates W collectively among the substrate delivery position PP defined in the transferring block5, any of the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6, for example, and the second posture turning mechanism31.

The first transport mechanism WTR1includes the one-paired chucks49,50, and a guide rail53. The chucks49,50each have fifty holding grooves for holding fifty substrates W individually, for example. The two chucks49,50extend in parallel in the Y-direction in plan view (FIG.1). The first transport mechanism WTR1makes the two chucks49,50opened or closed. The first transport mechanism WTR1moves the one-paired chucks49,50, along the guide rail53. The first transport mechanism WTR1is driven by an electric motor. Here, the first transport mechanism WTR1corresponds to the first batch substrate transport mechanism in the present invention.

The substrate treating apparatus1includes the controller59and a memory unit (not shown). The controller59controls components of the substrate treating apparatus1. The controller59includes one or more processors like a central processing unit (CPU). The memory unit includes, for example, at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), a random-access memory (RAM), and a hard disk. The memory unit stores computer programs necessary for controlling each component of the substrate treating apparatus1.

6. Second Posture Turning Mechanism

FIG.4Ais a plan view of the second posture turning mechanism31.FIG.4Bis a front view of the second posture turning mechanism31.FIG.5is a side view illustrating a second transport mechanism WTR2and a posture turning unit63. The second posture turning mechanism31includes a pusher mechanism61, the second transport mechanism WTR2, and the posture turning unit63. Here, the second posture turning mechanism31corresponds to the posture turning mechanism in the present invention. The second transport mechanism WTR2corresponds to the second batch substrate transport mechanism in the present invention.

The pusher mechanism61receives a plurality of substrates W in the vertical posture, on which batch treatment is performed, from the first transport mechanism WTR1. The pusher mechanism61can hold the substrates W in the vertical posture, and can rotate the substrates W around a vertical axis AX4. The pusher mechanism61includes a pusher65and a lifting and rotating portion67.

The pusher65holds the substrates W in the vertical posture that are transported by the first transport mechanism WTR1and are arranged at a predetermined pitch (e.g., half pitch). The pusher65is provided at a position accessible by the first transport mechanism WTR1. That is, the pusher65and the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6are arranged linearly in plan view (seeFIG.1). The lifting and rotating portion67moves the pusher65upward and downward, and rotates the pusher65around the vertical axis AX4. The lifting and rotating portion67includes one electric motor, or two or more electric motors, for example. Here, the pusher65corresponds to the substrate holder in the present invention. The lifting and rotating portion67corresponds to the rotating portion in the present invention.

6-2. Second Batch Substrate Transport Mechanism (Second Transport Mechanism)

The second transport mechanism (robot) WTR2transports the substrates W from the pusher65. The second transport mechanism WTR2includes two chucks (horizontal chucks)69,70, an opening and closing portion71, a lifting member73, and a horizontally moving portion75. As shown inFIG.5, the chucks69,70hold the substrates W while radially supporting two lateral side portions on an outer edge of each of the substrates W in the vertical posture. The chucks69,70each correspond to the horizontal chuck in the present invention.

The two chucks69,70each have a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) V-shaped holding grooves78and a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) passing grooves80. The V-shaped holding grooves78and the passing grooves80are arranged alternately one by one. The V-shaped holding grooves78each have a recess whose cross section is formed in a V-shape. Moreover, a V-shaped holding groove78A of the chuck69faces a V-shaped holding groove78B of the chuck70. Accordingly, one-paired V-shaped holding grooves78A,78B hold one substrate W. The twenty-five-paired V-shaped holding grooves78of the two chucks69,70hold twenty-five substrates W in a vertical posture individually. Consequently, adhesion of two adjacent substrates W can be prevented. This yields prevention of damages on the substrates W, for example.

The passing groove80does not hold a substrate W. The V-shaped holding grooves78are arranged at a predetermined pitch (e.g., full pitch). The passing grooves80are also arranged at a predetermined pitch (e.g., full pitch). Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2can pull out every other substrate W from the substrates W arranged at a half pitch.

The opening and closing portion71shown inFIG.4Aswings (rotates) the chuck69around a horizontal axis AX5, and swings the chuck70around a horizontal axis AX6. Accordingly, the opening and closing portion71can hold while supporting (gripping) the substrates W, and release supporting of the substrates W. When the substrate W is supported by the chucks69,70, a distance between the two recesses of the V-shaped holding grooves78A,78B is smaller than a diameter of the substrate W. As a result, the substrate W is to be held. Here, the two horizontal axes AX5, AX6each extend in the front-back direction X where the substrates W are aligned. Moreover, the horizontal axis AX5extends parallel to the horizontal axis AX6.

Moreover, the lifting member73moves the chucks69,70and the opening and closing portion71upward and downward. The horizontally moving portion75moves the chucks69,70and the lifting member73in the transverse direction Y (seeFIG.4A). The horizontally moving portion75moves the chucks69,70between a position above the pusher65and a delivery position to the posture turning unit63. The opening and closing portion71, the lifting member73, and the horizontally moving portion75each include an electric motor, for example.

Here, it is preferred that the chucks69,70each have an upper end that is lower than an upper edge of each of the held substrates W. Moreover, it is preferred that the chucks69,70each have a lower end that is higher than a lower edge of each of the held substrates W. This results in easy passing of the chucks69,70, holding the substrates W, between an upper chuck81and a lower chuck83, mentioned later. Consequently, the chucks69,70can deliver the substrates W smoothly to the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83.

6-3. Posture Turning Unit

FIG.6Ais a plan view of an auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87of the posture turning unit63.FIG.6Bis a side view of an advancing and withdrawing portion88of the posture turning unit63.FIGS.7A and7Beach illustrate operation of the advancing and withdrawing portion88of the posture turning unit63.

Reference is made toFIGS.4A,4B, and6A. The posture turning unit63turns a posture of a substrates W, transported from the second transport mechanism WTR2, from vertical to horizontal. The posture turning unit63is provided at a position accessible by the center robot CR. The posture turning unit63includes the upper chuck81, the lower chuck83, an upper chuck moving portion84, two auxiliary chucks85,86, the auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87, the advancing and withdrawing portion88, an upper and lower chuck rotation unit89, a support arm90, and a base frame91. The advancing and withdrawing portion88corresponds to the relative moving unit in the present invention.

The upper chuck81and the lower chuck83(hereunder, referred to as an “upper and lower chucks81,83”, where appropriate) radially support an upper part and a lower part of each outer edge of the substrates Win the vertical posture held by the two chucks69,70. Accordingly, the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83can receive the substrates W directly from the two chucks69,70of the second transport mechanism WTR2.

The upper chuck81is provided on the support arm90movably. The upper chuck moving portion84can move the upper chuck81close to or apart from the lower chuck83. The upper chuck moving portion84is provided in the support arm90. The upper chuck moving portion84includes, for example, a linear actuator having an electric motor. The lower chuck83is provided on the support arm90not movably but fixedly.

As shown inFIG.5, the upper chuck81includes a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) first horizontal guide grooves93. Likewise, the lower chuck83includes a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) second horizontal guide grooves94. For example, the twenty-five first horizontal guide grooves93are formed so as to house outer edges of the twenty-five substrates W individually. Moreover, the twenty-five second horizontal guide grooves94are formed so as to house outer edges of the twenty-five substrates W individually. Here, the horizontal guide grooves93,94each have a mounting surface95on which one substrate W is placed (seeFIG.7A).

Moreover, the horizontal guide grooves93,94each have a width WD larger than a thickness TC of the substrate W. That is, the horizontal guide grooves93,94each have the width WD, from an inlet to the depth thereof, that is larger than the thickness TC of the substrate W. Accordingly, since a space is generated for lifting the substrates W after the posture of the substrates W is turned to horizontal and when the center robot CR takes the substrates W from the upper and lower chucks81,83, the substrates W can be taken with no load thereon.

That is, when the hands35of the center robot CR takes one substrate Win a horizontal posture from the horizontal guide grooves93,94, the one substrate W in the horizontal posture can be moved upward within the horizontal guide grooves93,94. This is because the horizontal guide grooves93,94each have a space where the substrate W is freely movable.

Moreover, when the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83support the substrate W, a gap GP (space) is provided within the horizontal guide grooves93,94for moving the substrate W in a radial direction of the substrate W.

The auxiliary chucks85,86each hold a lower side of the substrate W. The two auxiliary chucks85,86are provided on both sides of the lower chuck83along a circumferential direction of the substrate W. Detailed description is made hereunder with reference toFIG.5. When the two chucks69,70, the upper chuck81, and the lower chuck83support the substrate W, a first auxiliary chuck85is arranged between the chuck69and the lower chuck83. Moreover, a second auxiliary chuck86is arranged between the chuck70and the lower chuck83.

Similar to the chucks69,70, the two auxiliary chucks85,86each have a plurality of (e.g., twenty-five) V-shaped holding grooves97. The holding grooves97each have a recess whose cross section is formed in a V-shape.

When the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83hold the substrate W in a “vertical posture”, the auxiliary chucks85,86cause the outer edge of the substrate W to be housed in the V-shaped holding grooves97, thereby holding the substrate W in the vertical posture. Moreover, when the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83hold the substrate W in a “horizontal posture”, the two auxiliary chucks85,86remove the substrate W from the V-shaped holding grooves97, and then moves apart from the substrate W to a position where the substrate W is not prevented from being taken by the center robot CR.

When the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83hold substrates Win a vertical posture, the two auxiliary chucks85,86in a closed state hold the substrates W in the vertical posture, achieving prevention of contact of two adjacent substrates W. Moreover, the two auxiliary chucks85,86are in an opened state when the substrates W in the horizontal posture are taken from the upper chuck81and the lower chuck83without preventing taking the substrates W by the center robot CR.

The auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87is provided on the support arm90via the advancing and withdrawing portion88. The auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87swings (rotates) the first auxiliary chuck85around a horizontal axis AX7, and swings the second auxiliary chuck86around a horizontal axis AX8. Description is made with reference toFIG.6A. The auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87includes, for example, an electric motor87A, a first gear87B, a second gear87C, a third gear87D, a fourth gear87E, a first shaft87F, and a second shaft87G.

The first gear87B is fixed on an output shaft87H of the electric motor87A. The second gear87C is fixed on the first shaft87F. The first shaft87F is supported rotatably around a horizontal axis AX7. Moreover, a front end of the first shaft87F is connected to the first auxiliary chuck85. The third gear87D is supported rotatably around the horizontal axis. The fourth gear87E is fixed on the second shaft87G. The second shaft87G is supported rotatably around the horizontal axis AX8. Moreover, a front end of the second shaft87G is connected to the second auxiliary chuck86.

The two gears87B,87C engage with each other. The two gears87B,87D engage with each other. Moreover, the two gears87D,87E engage with each other. When the electric motor87A causes the output shaft87H to rotate forward, the auxiliary chucks85,86hold the substrates W. In contrast to this, when the electric motor87A causes the output shaft87H to rotate rearward, the auxiliary chucks85,86release the substrates W, and thus release holding of the substrates W.

Here, the two horizontal axes AX7, AX8each extend in the front-back direction X where the substrates W are aligned. Moreover, the horizontal axis AX7extends parallel to the horizontal axis AX8. When the auxiliary chucks85,86do not hold the substrates W, the auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87moves the one-paired auxiliary chucks85,86outward of alternate long and short dashed lines101as shown inFIG.5by dotted lines.

The advancing and withdrawing portion88is provided on the support arm90as shown inFIG.6B. The advancing and withdrawing portion88moves the auxiliary chucks85,86(forward and rearward) relative to the upper and lower chucks81,83in the front-back direction X where the substrates W are aligned. The advancing and withdrawing portion88includes an electric motor88A, a threaded shaft88B, a slider88C, and a guide rail88D, for example.

An output shaft88E of the electric motor88A is connected to a first end of the threaded shaft88B. The threaded shaft88B passes through the slider88C while engaging with a nut88F of the slider88C. The guide rail88D passes through the slider88C. The slider88C is movable freely relative to the guide rail88D. The slider88C is coupled to the auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87. The threaded shaft88B and the guide rail88D extend in the front-back direction X where the substrates W are aligned. When the electric motor88A causes the output shaft88E to rotate forward, the auxiliary chucks85,86move forward relative to the upper and lower chucks81,83. In contrast to this, when the electric motor88A causes the output shaft88E to rotate rearward, the auxiliary chucks85,86move rearward relative to the upper and lower chucks81,83.

When the posture turning unit63turns a posture of substrates W from vertical to horizontal, the advancing and withdrawing portion88moves the two auxiliary chucks85,86such that the substrates W housed in the vertical posture in the V-shaped holding grooves97each contact the mounting surface95. Description is made with reference toFIGS.7A,7B. InFIGS.7A and7B, the upper and lower chucks81,83are arranged on a left end of the substrates W and the auxiliary chucks85,86are arranged on a right end of the substrates W for convenience of illustration.

FIG.7Aillustrates a condition immediately after the posture turning unit63receives the substrates W from the second transport mechanism WTR2with use of the upper and lower chucks81,83and the auxiliary chucks85,86. That is, outer edges of the substrates W are each positioned at the depth of the V-shaped holding groove97at the center of the width WD of each of the horizontal guide grooves93,94.

The advancing and withdrawing portion88can move the auxiliary chucks85,86between a contact position and a standby position. When the posture of the substrates W is turned, the advancing and withdrawing portion88moves the auxiliary chucks85,86rearward from the standby position to the contact position (moves rearward X). Accordingly, as shown inFIG.7B, back faces of the substrates W in the vertical posture held in the V-shaped holding grooves97each contact or approach the mounting surfaces95of the horizontal guide grooves93,94in the upper and lower chucks81,83, respectively.

The substrates W are freely movable in the horizontal guide grooves93,94in a condition where the auxiliary chucks85,86do not hold the substrates W. However, when the posture is turned, the substrates W are moved and contact in the horizontal guide grooves93,94. This may generate particles. Then, the advancing and withdrawing portion88causes the substrates W to contact or approach the mounting surfaces95, thereby achieving suppressed impact due to contact of the substrates W. This can suppress generation of particles.

The upper and lower chuck rotation unit89shown inFIG.4Brotates the upper and lower chucks81,83around a horizontal axis AX9orthogonal to the alignment direction (front-back direction X) of twenty-five substrates W in the vertical posture held by the upper and lower chucks81,83. This turns a posture of the twenty-five substrates W received from the two chucks69,70from vertical to horizontal. Here, the horizontal axis AX9extends in the transverse direction Y.

The upper and lower chuck rotation unit89is provided on the base frame91. The base frame91includes a beam member91A extending horizontally in the front-back direction X, and two column members91B supporting both ends of the beam member91A, for example. The upper and lower chuck rotation unit89supports the upper and lower chucks81,83rotatably around the horizontal axis AX9via the L-shaped support arm90. The upper and lower chuck rotation unit89include an electric motor, for example.

6. Operation Explanation

The following describes operation of the substrate treating apparatus1with reference to flowcharts inFIGS.8to10. Reference is made toFIG.1. An external transport robot, not shown, transports two carriers C into a load port9in order.

[Step S01] Transportation of Substrate from Carrier

The transport mechanism11of the stocker block3transports a first carrier C from the load port9to a shelf13A. The collective transport mechanism HTR of the transferring block5takes twenty-five substrates W1in a horizontal posture from the first carrier C placed on the shelf13A, and transports the substrates W1to the posture turning unit23. Thereafter, the carrier transport mechanism11transports the empty first carrier C to another shelf13B. Then, the transport mechanism11transports a second carrier C from the load port9to the shelf13A. The collective transport mechanism HTR takes twenty-five substrates W2in a horizontal posture from the second carrier C placed on the shelf13A, and transports the substrates W2to the posture turning unit23.

[Step S02] Posture Turn to Vertical Posture

In the posture turning unit23, fifty substrates W (W1, W2) of two carriers C are transported. As shown inFIGS.3A to3F, the posture turning unit23and the pusher mechanism25cause the fifty substrates W to be aligned at a half pitch (5 mm) in a face-to-face system, and turn the posture of the fifty substrates W from horizontal to vertical by twenty-five. The pusher mechanism25transports the fifty substrates W in the vertical posture to the substrate delivery position PP determined in the transferring block5.

The first transport mechanism WTR1receives the fifty substrates W in the vertical posture from the pusher mechanism25at the substrate delivery position PP, and transports the fifty substrates W to any of the four lifters LF1to LF4in the four chemical liquid process tanks BT1to BT4, respectively.

For example, the first transport mechanism WTR1transports the fifty substrates W to the lifter LF1of the chemical liquid process tank BT1. The lifter LF1receives the fifty substrates W at a position above the chemical liquid process tank BT1. The lifter LF1immerses the fifty substrates W in phosphoric acid for the treatment liquid within the chemical liquid process tank BT1. Accordingly, an etching treatment is performed on the fifty substrates W. After the etching treatment, the lifter LF1pulls up the fifty substrates W from the phosphoric acid within the chemical liquid process tank BT1. It should be noted that similar treatment as in the chemical liquid process tank BT1is performed when the fifty substrates W are transported to the other lifters LF2to LF4of the chemical liquid process tanks BT2to BT4.

The first transport mechanism WTR1receives the fifty substrates W in the vertical posture from the lifter LF1(or lifter LF2), for example, and transports the fifty substrates W to the lifter LF5of the water cleaning process tank BT5. The lifter LF5receives the fifty substrates W at a position above the water cleaning process tank BT5. The lifter LF5immerses the fifty substrates W in the deionized water within the water cleaning process tank BT5. Accordingly, a cleaning treatment is performed on the fifty substrates W.

Here, when the first transport mechanism WTR1receives the fifty substrates W in the vertical posture from either the lifter LF3or LF4, the first transport mechanism WTR1transports the fifty substrates W to a lifter LF6of the water cleaning process tank BT6. The lifter LF6receives the fifty substrates W at a position above the water cleaning process tank BT6. The lifter LF6immerses the fifty substrates W in the deionized water within the water cleaning process tank BT6.

In this embodiment, the second posture turning mechanism31is provided opposite to the transferring block5across the six batch process tanks BT1to BT6. The first transport mechanism WTR1transports the fifty substrates W collectively to the second posture turning mechanism31from the batch process tank BT1(BT3), for example, adjacent to the transferring block5, through the batch process tank BT5(BT6), apart from the transferring block5.

[Step S05] Posture Turn to Horizontal Posture

The second posture turning mechanism31collectively turns a posture of the substrates W, on which the cleaning treatment is performed, from vertical to horizontal. Here, the following drawbacks arise. That is, if the posture of the fifty substrates W arranged at a half pitch (a pitch of 5 mm) is collectively turned, one of the hands35of the center robot CR may not possibly enter a gap between two adjacent substrates W of the fifty substrates W satisfactorily.

In addition, when the substrates W are aligned in a face-to-face system, the substrates W whose posture is turned to horizontal may be a substrate W whose device face is directed upward or a substrate W whose device face is directed downward. For example, it is not suitable that the hands35of the center robot CR contacts the device face of the substrate W. It is also not suitable that substrates W whose directions of the device faces are different are transported to the single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4.

Then, in this embodiment, a gap between two adjacent substrates W is widened and the device faces of the fifty substrates W face in the same direction. Detailed description is made with reference to the flowcharts inFIGS.9,10, as well asFIGS.11A to11D,FIGS.12A to12D, andFIGS.13A to13D.

[Step S11] Transport of Substrate to Pusher Mechanism

Reference is made toFIG.11A. Here,FIGS.11A to11Dare each a plan view illustrating the operation of the second posture turning mechanism31. The first transport mechanism WTR1transports fifty substrates W from either the lifter LF5or LF6to the pusher mechanism61of the second posture turning mechanism31(seeFIG.1). The pusher65of the pusher mechanism61holds the fifty substrates Win a vertical posture arranged in a face-to-face system and at a half pitch. Moreover, the fifty substrates W are aligned in the transverse direction Y.

Moreover, the second transport mechanism WTR2is at stand-by at a position close to the posture turning unit63so as not interfere with the first transport mechanism WTR1. Moreover, after transporting the substrates W to the pusher mechanism61, the first transport mechanism WTR1moves from above the pusher mechanism61.

[Step S12] Rotation of Substrate by Pusher Mechanism Around Vertical Axis

Reference is made toFIG.11B. The lifting and rotating portion67of the pusher mechanism61rotates the fifty substrates W counterclockwise by 90 degrees around the vertical axis AX4in plan view. Consequently, the pusher mechanism61can deliver the substrates W to the second transport mechanism WTR2, and can also make the device faces of the twenty-five substrates W1in the first substrate group upward when the substrate posture is turned.

[Step S13] Transport of Substrate (W1) by Second Transport Mechanism

The second transport mechanism WTR2moves close to a position where the substrates are in a standby state. That is, the second transport mechanism WTR2moves such that the chucks69,70are positioned above the fifty substrates W held by the pusher65. The opening and closing portion71makes the chucks69,70opened such that the fifty substrates W can pass between the chucks69,70.

Reference is made toFIG.11C. After the chucks69,70are moved above the substrates W, the lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves the chucks69,70downward below the center of the substrates W. Thereafter, the opening and closing portion71closes the chucks69,70to support the fifty substrates W. At this time, the twenty-five substrates W1are positioned in twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves78, and the twenty-five substrates W2are positioned in twenty-five passing grooves80individually.

After the fifty substrates W are supported by the chucks69,70, the lifting member73moves the chucks69,70upward. Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2can pull out the twenty-five substrates W1, arranged at a full pitch (e.g., 10 mm), from the fifty substrates W (W1, W2) held by the pusher65. In other words, the twenty-five substrates W2in the second substrate group remain on the pusher65.

Reference is made toFIG.11D. The second transport mechanism WTR2collectively transports the twenty-five substrates W1between the upper and lower chucks81,83of the posture turning unit63. At this time, the upper chuck moving portion84moves the upper chuck81to an open position apart from the lower chuck83. Moreover, the auxiliary chucks85,86are closed for holding substrates W in a vertical posture. Here, the auxiliary chucks85,86may be opened.

Moreover, the lifting and rotating portion67of the pusher mechanism61rotates the twenty-five substrates W2, held by the pusher65, around the vertical axis AX4by 180 degrees. Consequently, the pusher mechanism61can make the device faces of the twenty-five substrates W2in the second substrate group upward when the substrate posture is turned. Moreover, such 180-degree rotation moves positions of the substrates W2rearward X at a half pitch from those before the rotation. Accordingly, the twenty-five substrates W2can be housed in the V-shaped holding grooves78of the chucks69,70when the substrates W are transported. Here, such 180-degree rotation of the substrates W2is preferably performed in the steps S13to S17.

[Step S14] Delivery of Substrate (W1) to Posture Turning Unit

Reference is made toFIG.12A.FIGS.12A to12Dare each a front view illustrating the operation of the second posture turning mechanism31, i.e., a view from the single-wafer transportation region R2.FIG.12Ais also a front view of a condition where the second transport mechanism WTR2inFIG.11Dmoves the twenty-five substrates W1between the upper and lower chucks81,83.

Reference is made toFIG.12B. The auxiliary chucks85,86are closed for holding substrates W in a vertical posture. The lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves twenty-five substrates W1, held by the chucks69,70, downward until the substrates W1contact the V-shaped holding grooves97of the auxiliary chucks85,86. Specifically, the lifting member73moves twenty-five substrates W1downward until the twenty-five substrates W1are held in the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves97. When the twenty-five substrates W1are held in the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves97of the auxiliary chucks85,86individually, outer edges of the twenty-five substrates W1are housed in the second horizontal guide grooves94of the lower chuck83.

Thereafter, the upper chuck moving portion84moves the upper chuck81downward for causing the upper chuck81to approach the lower chuck83. This causes the outer edges of the twenty-five substrates W1to be housed in the first horizontal guide grooves93of the upper chuck81. Moreover, the upper and lower chucks81,83and the auxiliary chucks85,86hold (grip) the twenty-five substrates W1.

Reference is made toFIG.12C. Thereafter, the opening and closing portion71of the second transport mechanism WTR2opens the chucks69,70. This releases holding of the twenty-five substrates W1. Moreover, the twenty-five substrates W1are delivered to the posture turning unit63. Thereafter, the lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves the chucks69,70upward to the above of the substrates W. This causes the second transport mechanism WTR2to be moved to a position where it does not interfere with the posture turning unit63.

[Step S15] Contact of Substrate (W1) to Mounting Surface

As shown inFIG.6B, the advancing and withdrawing portion88moves the auxiliary chucks85,86rearward (moves rearward X). Specifically, the advancing and withdrawing portion88causes the twenty-five substrates W1, held in the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves97individually, to contact the mounting surfaces95of the horizontal guide grooves93,94(seeFIGS.7A,7B). Accordingly, impact due to movement of the substrates W1can be suppressed when the posture is turned and the auxiliary chucks85,86are opened.

[Step S16] Posture Turn by Posture Turning Unit

Reference is made toFIG.12D. Then, the upper and lower chuck rotation unit89of the posture turning unit63rotates the upper and lower chucks81,83and the like, holding the twenty-five substrates W1, counterclockwise by 90 degrees around the horizontal axis AX9. Accordingly, the posture of the twenty-five substrates W1in the first substrate group can be turned from vertical to horizontal. After such 90-degree rotation, the auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87opens the auxiliary chucks85,86to a position where the auxiliary chucks85,86do not prevent transportation of the substrates W1by the center robot CR. That is, the auxiliary chucks85,86are moved to a position illustrated by dotted lines inFIG.5.

[Step S17] Transport of Substrate (W1) by Center Robot

After the auxiliary chucks85,86are open, the center robot CR takes the twenty-five substrates W1in the horizontal posture held by the upper and lower chucks81,83in turn with the two hands35, and transports the substrates W1to either the single-wafer processing chamber SW1or SW2. A pitch of the substrates W is widened from half to full. Accordingly, the hands35of the center robot CR can enter between the two adjacent substrates W satisfactorily. This allows suitably taking of the substrates W.

After the center robot CR transports the twenty-five substrates W1in the first substrate group from the posture turning unit63, a posture of the twenty-five substrates W2in the second substrate group is turned. Here, steps S18to S22are similar to the steps S13to S17, and thus the same part is to be described briefly.

[Step S18] Transport of Substrate (W2) by Second Transport Mechanism

Reference is made toFIG.13A. Here,FIGS.13A,13Bare each a plan view illustrating the operation of the second posture turning mechanism31. The second transport mechanism WTR2moves such that the chucks69,70are positioned above the twenty-five substrates W2held by the pusher65. Here, the chucks69,70are opened.

Thereafter, the lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves the chucks69,70below the center of the substrates W2. Then, the opening and closing portion71closes the chucks69,70to support the twenty-five substrates W2. In the step S13, 180-degree rotation of the substrates W2moves a position of the substrates W2at a half pitch. Accordingly, when the chucks69,70are closed, the twenty-five substrates W2are positioned in the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves78individually.

Thereafter, the lifting member73moves the chucks69,70upward. Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2lifts up the twenty-five substrates W2held by the pusher65.

Reference is made toFIG.13B. Then, the second transport mechanism WTR2collectively transports the twenty-five substrates W2between the upper and lower chucks81,83of the posture turning unit63. Here, after the second transport mechanism WTR2transports the twenty-five substrates W2, the pusher65is brought into a condition where it does not hold the substrates W. Accordingly, the first transport mechanism WTR1transports another fifty substrates W from either the lifter LF3or LF6to the pusher65.

[Step S19] Delivery of Substrate (W2) to Posture Turning Unit

Reference is made toFIG.13C. Now,FIGS.13C,13Dare each a front view of the second posture turning mechanism31. The twenty-five substrates W2held by the chucks69,70are positioned between the upper and lower chucks81,83. Moreover, the auxiliary chucks85,86are closed for holding the substrates W2in the vertical posture. Moreover, the auxiliary chucks85,86are moved by the advancing and withdrawing portion88from the contact position (state ofFIG.7B) to the standby position (state ofFIG.7A).

Thereafter, the lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves twenty-five substrates W2, held by the chucks69,70, downward until the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves97of the auxiliary chucks85,86hold the twenty-five substrates W2individually. Thereafter, the upper chuck moving portion84moves the upper chuck81downward. Accordingly, the upper and lower chucks81,83and the auxiliary chucks85,86hold (grip) the twenty-five substrates W2.

Thereafter, the opening and closing portion71of the second transport mechanism WTR2opens the chucks69,70. Accordingly, hold of the twenty-five substrates W2is released, and the twenty-five substrates W2are delivered to the posture turning unit63. Thereafter, the lifting member73of the second transport mechanism WTR2moves the chucks69,70upward to a position higher than the substrates W where the chucks69,70do not interfere with the posture turning unit63.

[Step S20] Contact of Substrate (W2) to Mounting Surface

Thereafter, the advancing and withdrawing portion88causes the twenty-five substrates W2, held in the twenty-five V-shaped holding grooves97individually, to contact the mounting surfaces95of the horizontal guide grooves93,94(seeFIGS.7A,7B).

[Step S21] Posture Turn by Posture Turning Unit

Reference is made toFIG.13D. Then, the upper and lower chuck rotation unit89of the posture turning unit63rotates the upper and lower chucks81,83and the like, holding the twenty-five substrates W2, counterclockwise by 90 degrees around the horizontal axis AX9. As a result, the posture of the twenty-five substrates W2turns from vertical to horizontal. After such 90-degree rotation, the auxiliary chuck opening and closing portion87opens the auxiliary chucks85,86to a position illustrated by dotted lines inFIG.5.

[Step S22] Transport of Substrate (W2) by Center Robot

After the auxiliary chucks85,86are open, the center robot CR takes the twenty-five substrates W2in the horizontal posture in turn, and transports the substrates W2to either the first single-wafer processing chamber SW1or the second single-wafer processing chamber SW2.

Description returns to the flowchart inFIG.8. For example, the center robot CR transports substrates W (W1, W2) from the posture turning unit63to the first single-wafer processing chamber SW1. The first single-wafer processing chamber SW1supplies deionized water to device faces of the substrates W from the nozzle47while the rotating unit45rotates the substrates W whose device faces are directed upward, for example. Then, the first single-wafer processing chamber SW1supplies IPA from the nozzle47to the device faces (top faces) of the substrates W to replace the deionized water on the substrates W by the IPA.

Thereafter, the center robot CR takes the substrates W, wet with the IPA, from the first single-wafer processing chamber SW1(SW2), and transports the substrates W to either the single-wafer processing chamber SW3or SW4. The single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4each perform dry treatment on the substrates W with carbon dioxide under a supercritical state (supercritical fluid). Such dry treatment with the supercritical fluid can suppress pattern collapse of the device faces of the substrates W.

[Step S08] Substrate Transportation from Buffer Unit to Carrier

The center robot CR transports the substrates W, on which the dry treatment is performed, from either the single-wafer processing chamber SW3or SW4to any mount shelf of the buffer unit33. When substrates W1in one lot (twenty-five) are transported to the buffer unit33, the collective transport mechanism HTR collectively transports the twenty-five substrates W1from the buffer unit33into an empty first carrier C placed on a shelf13A. Then, the transport mechanism11in the stocker block3transports the first carrier C to the load port9.

Moreover, when substrates W2in one lot are transported to the buffer unit33, the collective transport mechanism HTR collectively transports the twenty-five substrates W2from the buffer unit33into an empty second carrier C placed on a shelf13A. Then, the transport mechanism11in the stocker block3transports the second carrier C to the load port9. An external transport mechanism, not shown, transports the two carriers C into a next destination in order.

With this embodiment, the upper and lower chucks81,83of the posture turning unit63support an upper portion and a lower portion on an outer edge of each of the substrates W1(W2) in a vertical posture held by the two horizontal chucks69,70of the second transport mechanism WTR2. Accordingly, the posture turning unit63can receive the substrates W1(W2) directly from the two horizontal chucks69,70of the second transport mechanism WTR2. Moreover, the pusher65is provided at a position accessible by the first transport mechanism WTR1, and the posture turning unit63is provided at a position accessible by the center robot CR. Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2can transport substrates W from the pusher65to the posture turning unit63even when the pusher65receives the substrates W from the first transport mechanism WTR1at a position far away from the center robot CR. Accordingly, the center robot CR can easily access the posture turning unit63.

Moreover, the upper and lower chuck rotation unit89rotates the upper and lower chucks81,83around the horizontal axis AX9orthogonal to an alignment direction of substrates W1(W2) in a vertical posture held by the upper and lower chucks81,83. Accordingly, the substrates W1(W2) can be taken out from a gap between the upper and lower chucks81,83, and the posture turning unit63is accessible along the horizontal axis AX9orthogonal to the alignment direction of the substrates W1(W2).

Moreover, the second posture turning mechanism31further includes the lifting and rotating portion67for rotating the pusher65around the vertical axis AX4. Consequently, substrates W in any directions can be delivered to the second transport mechanism WTR2. In addition, the substrates W in a horizontal posture after posture turning can be brought into any directions.

Moreover, the batch process tanks BT1to BT6and the second posture turning mechanism31are arranged in the horizontal front-back direction X (first direction), and the second transport mechanism WTR2transports a plurality of substrates W from the pusher65in the horizontal transverse direction Y (second direction) orthogonal to the front-back direction X. When the batch process tanks BT1to BT6and their surrounding components are elongated in the transverse direction Y, the hands35of the center robot CR is sometimes hard to access. The second transport mechanism WTR2can move in the transverse direction Y, whereby the posture turning unit63can approach the center robot CR. Accordingly, the center robot CR can transport the substrates W easily.

Moreover, the two horizontal chucks69,70are each provided with the two or more V-shaped holding grooves78for holding two or more substrates W1(W2) set in advance from a plurality of substrates W. The second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the two or more substrates W1(W2) from the substrates W in a vertical posture held by the pusher65with use of the two horizontal chucks69,70. The second transport mechanism WTR2can pull out and transport the two or more substrates W1(W2) from the substrates W held by the pusher65.

SECOND EMBODIMENT

The following describes a second embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Here, the description common to that of the first embodiment is to be omitted.FIG.14Ais a longitudinal sectional view of a pusher mechanism61of a second posture turning mechanism31according to the second embodiment.FIG.14Bis a plan view of the second posture turning mechanism31according to the second embodiment.

Reference is made toFIG.14A. The pusher mechanism61of the second posture turning mechanism31in the second embodiment includes a stand-by tank107for storing a liquid and two jet pipes109for supplying deionized water (DIW) as the liquid, for example, to the stand-by tank107in order to immerse substrates W held by a pusher65in the liquid when the pusher65moves downward. The jet pipe109is formed to extend linearly in a front-back direction X or a transverse direction Y. The jet pipe109has a plurality of jet ports109A (holder nozzles) extending along the jet pipe109. The jet ports109A each eject deionized water. The stand-by tank107stores deionized water ejected from the jet pipes109.

As shown inFIG.11D, for example, when the posture turning unit63turns a posture of substrates W1, substrates W2at a stand-by state are immersed in the deionized water within the stand-by tank107, leading to prevention of drying of the substrates W.

Note that the stand-by tank107does not necessarily store deionized water. In this case, the jet ports109A of the jet pipe109may supply deionized water in a shower state or a mist state to substrates W held by the pusher65. In addition, as shown by the jet pipe109by dotted lines inFIG.14A, the jet ports109A may positioned higher than the substrates W. When the deionized water in a shower state or a mist state is supplied to the substrates W, the stand-by tank107may or may not be provided.

Reference is next made toFIG.14B. The second posture turning mechanism31includes a first group of nozzles111and a second group of nozzles112. The nozzles111,112are for the posture turning unit63. The nozzles111,112each supply deionized water (DIW) as a liquid, for example, in a shower state or a mist state to the substrates W held by upper and lower chucks81,83of the posture turning unit63. The first group of nozzles111and the second group of nozzles112are arranged so as to surround the substrates W in plan view. The nozzles111,112are positioned higher than the substrates W. Moreover, the nozzles111,112may be movable so as not to interfere with the second transport mechanism WTR2.

An upper and lower chuck rotation unit89turns a posture of the substrates W, held by the upper and lower chucks81,83to either vertical or oblique. In this condition, the nozzles111,112supply deionized water in a shower state or a mist state to the substrates W held by the upper and lower chucks81,83. Here, the oblique posture is a posture where device faces of substrates are directed upward.

For example, when the center robot CR suspends transportation of substrates W, drying of the substrates W held by the upper and lower chucks81,83can be prevented. Moreover, if a posture of substrates W is horizontal in supplying deionized water, the deionized water in a shower state or a mist state is hard to spread over device faces entirely. However, the posture of the substrates W is turned to either vertical or oblique where the device faces are directed upward, leading to easy spread of the deionized water in a shower state or a mist state over the device faces.

Moreover, the substrate treating apparatus1may adopt both of the construction inFIG.14Aand the construction inFIG.14B. Alternatively, the substrate treating apparatus1may adopt either of the construction inFIG.14Aor the construction inFIG.14B.

If substrates W are dried before dry treatment in single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4, pattern collapse of the substrates W occurs. However, this embodiment can prevent drying of the substrates W held by the pusher65. Moreover, this embodiment can prevent drying of the substrates W held by the upper and lower chucks81,83of the posture turning unit63.

THIRD EMBODIMENT

The following describes a third embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Here, the description common to that of the first and second embodiments is to be omitted.

The second transport mechanism WTR2of the first embodiment shown inFIG.4Acan pull out twenty-five substrates W1(W2) from fifty substrates W in a vertical posture held by the pusher65. In other words, the second transport mechanism WTR2of the first embodiment pulls out the substrates W with a single pattern. In this regard, a second transport mechanism WTR2of the third embodiment can pull out substrates W with a plurality of (e.g., six) patterns in which at least either the number or a position of substrates is variable.

Reference is made toFIGS.15A and15B. The second transport mechanism WTR2includes two horizontal chucks115,117. A first horizontal chuck115is formed in a column shape so as to extend along a horizontal axis AX11, and is rotatable around the horizontal axis AX11. Moreover, a second horizontal chuck117is formed in a column shape so as to extend along a horizontal axis AX12, and is rotatable around the horizontal axis AX12. The two horizontal chucks115,117are each rotated by an electric motor of an opening and closing portion71shown inFIG.4A.

The second transport mechanism WTR2of this embodiment pulls out one or more substrate W1(W2) set in advance from twenty-five substrates W1in a first substrate group (or twenty-five substrates W2in a second substrate group) of fifty substrates W in a vertical posture held by a pusher65. In order to achieve this, six patterns PT1to PT6are formed around a circumference face of the first horizontal chuck115around the horizontal axis AX11. Likewise, six patterns PT1to PT6are formed around a circumference face of the second horizontal chuck117around the horizontal axis AX12. InFIG.15A, the two horizontal chucks115,117are formed symmetrically. Moreover, the second transport mechanism WTR2can switch the two horizontal chucks115,117among the six patterns PT1to PT6.

The six patterns PT1to PT6each have at least either holding grooves119or passing grooves121.FIG.15Aillustrates holding grooves119and passing grooves121of the patterns PT1to PT6each corresponding to one substrate W. The five patterns PT1and PT3to PT6each include a passing groove121. In contrast to this, the pattern PT2includes a holding groove119.

As shown inFIG.15A, the second transport mechanism WTR2rotates the horizontal chucks115,117such that the two patterns PT1, for example, face each other. Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2can pass a substrate W between the two horizontal chucks115,117. Moreover, as shown inFIG.15B, the second transport mechanism WTR2rotates the horizontal chucks115,117such that the two patterns PT2, for example, face each other. Accordingly, the second transport mechanism WTR2can hold a substrate W between the two horizontal chucks115,117.

Detailed description is further made of the two horizontal chucks115,117.FIG.16Aillustrates assignment of the six patterns PT1to PT6. It is assumed that fifty substrates W are arranged in a face-to-face system and at a half pitch. Twenty-five substrates W1are numbered No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 to No. 25 from a proximal end side of each of the horizontal chucks115,117.

When the patterns PT1are used, all the fifty substrates W pass through. The patterns PT1each have passing grooves (passing portions)121formed in positions corresponding to the fifty substrates W. Here, it is now assumed to be under a condition shown inFIG.11C. When the two patterns PT1of the two horizontal chucks115,117face to each other, i.e., when the two horizontal chucks115,117have the pattern PT1, the second transport mechanism WTR2does not hold all the substrates W.

When the patterns PT2are used, five substrates W1of No. 1 to No. 5 are pulled out. The patterns PT2each have five holding grooves119, as shown inFIG.16B, which positions correspond to the five substrates W1of No. 1 to No. 5. Moreover, the patterns PT2each have passing grooves121at other positions that correspond to substrates W1, W2except for the five substrates W1of No. 1 to No. 5. That is, no holding grooves119are provided at the other positions. Here, it is now assumed to be under a condition shown inFIG.11C. When the two horizontal chucks115,117use the patterns PT2, the second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the five substrates W1(No. 1 to No. 5) set in advance from the fifty substrates W.

When the patterns PT3are used, five substrates W1of No. 6 to No. 10 are pulled out. The patterns PT3each have five holding grooves119at positions that correspond to the five substrates W1of No. 6 to No. 10. Moreover, the patterns PT3each have passing grooves121at other positions that correspond to substrates W1, W2except for the five substrates W1of No. 1 to No. 5. That is, no holding grooves119are provided at the other positions. Here, it is now assumed to be under a condition shown inFIG.11C. When the two horizontal chucks115,117use the patterns PT3, the second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the five substrates W1of No. 6 to No. 10 from the fifty substrates W.

The patterns PT4each have five holding grooves119at positions that correspond to five substrates W1of No. 11 to No. 15, but has no holding grooves119at other positions. In a condition illustrated inFIG.11C, when the two horizontal chucks115,117use the patterns PT4, the second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the five substrates W1of No. 11 to No. 15 from the fifty substrates W.

As illustrated inFIG.16C, the patterns PT5each have five holding grooves119at positions that correspond to five substrates W1of No. 16 to No. 20, but has no holding grooves119at other positions. In the condition illustrated inFIG.11C, when the two horizontal chucks115,117use the patterns PT5, the second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the five substrates W1of No. 16 to No. 20 from the fifty substrates W. The five substrates W1of No. 16 to No. 20 are different from the substrates W1pulled out with the other five pairs of patterns PT1to PT4and PT6.

The patterns PT6each have five holding grooves119at positions that correspond to five substrates W1of No. 21 to No. 25, but has no holding grooves119at other positions. In the condition illustrated inFIG.11C, when the two horizontal chucks115,117use the patterns PT6, the second transport mechanism WTR2pulls out the five substrates W1of No. 21 to No. 25 from the fifty substrates W.

Here, when the substrates W2in the second substrate group are pulled out, a lifting and rotating portion67of a pusher mechanism61rotates twenty-five substrates W2, held by the pusher65, by 180 degrees around the vertical axis AX4. Such 180-degree rotation can move positions of the substrates W2rearward X at a half pitch from those before the rotation.

It should be noted that the six patterns PT1to PT6are not limited to the above example. For example, the following setting is applicable. When the patterns PT2are used, ten substrates W1(W2) of No. 1 to No. 10 are set to be pulled out. When the patterns PT3are used, ten substrates W1(W2) of No. 11 to No. 20 are set to be pulled out. When the patterns PT4are used, five substrates W1(W2) of No. 21 to No. 25 are set to be pulled out. When the three other patterns PT1, PTS, PT6are used, all the substrates W (W1, W2) are set not to be pulled out.

With this embodiment, the second transport mechanism WTR2can pull out and transport substrates W1(W2), different in pattern with which the substrates W1(W2) are pulled out, from the substrates W held by the pusher65. For example, when the patterns PT2are used, five substrates W1of No. 1 to No. 5 can be pulled out. Moreover, when the patterns PT5are used, five substrates W1of No. 16 to No. 20 can be pulled out.

This invention is not limited to the foregoing examples, but may be modified as follows.(1) In the embodiments described above, the guide rail of the horizontally moving unit41of the center robot CR is provided on the floor of the single-wafer transportation region R2. Instead of this, as illustrated inFIG.17, a guide rail41A of the horizontally moving unit41of the center robot CR may be provided in an upper part of the single-wafer transportation region R2, and the lifting and rotating portion39and the like of the center robot CR may be suspended on the guide rail41A reversely.

The center robot CR includes a mechanism body123(two hands35A,35B, advancing and withdrawing portion37, lifting and rotating portion39), and the horizontally moving unit41. The horizontally moving unit41includes the guide rail41A, a slider41B, a threaded shaft, and an electric motor, for example. The guide rail41A is provided in the upper part of the single-wafer transportation region R2in the front-back direction X along the single-wafer transportation region R2. Specifically, the guide rail41A is provided on a ceiling125or its surroundings of the single-wafer transportation region R2(or treating block7). Here, the guide rail41A corresponds to an upper rail in the present invention.

The mechanism body123is suspended on the guide rail41A, and moves in the front-back direction X along the guide rail41A. This prevents contamination of the advancing and withdrawing portion37and the lifting and rotating portion39, for example, due to falling of droplets from wet substrates W. For example, contamination of the advancing and withdrawing portion37and the like with the droplets, which may cause failure of the center robot CR, can be prevented.

When the first hand35A is provided higher than the second hand35B as shown inFIG.17, the first hand35A is used for transporting substrates W, on which the dry treatment is performed, whereas the second hand35B is used for transporting wet substrates W from the second posture turning mechanism31to either the single-wafer processing chamber SW3or SW4.(2) In the embodiments and the modification described above, the single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4each perform the dry treatment on substrates W with supercritical fluid. In this regard, the single-wafer processing chambers SW3, SW4may each include a rotating unit45and a nozzle47like the single-wafer processing chambers SW1, SW2. In this case, the single-wafer processing chambers SW1to SW4each supply deionized water and IPA to substrates W in this order, and then perform dry treatment (spin drying) on the substrates W.(3) In the embodiments and the modifications described above, the batch process tanks BT1to BT6each perform treatment on fifty substrates W arranged in a face-to-face system and at a half pitch. However, the batch process tanks BT1to BT6may each perform treatment on substrates W arranged in a face-to-back system where device faces of the substrates W are all directed to the same direction. The batch process tanks BT1to BT6may each perform treatment on twenty-five substrates W for one carrier C arranged at a full pitch. When fifty substrates W are arranged in the face-to-back system inFIG.11B, the opening and closing portion71moves the two chucks69,70in the front-back direction X where the substrates W are aligned, whereby twenty-five substrates W1or twenty-five substrates W2are pulled out.(4) In the embodiments and the modifications described above, the batch treatment region R1may be elongated in the transverse direction Y. For example, a pipe for supplying deionized water and the like to the batch process tank BT6and a pipe for exhausting liquid in the batch process tank BT6are provided in a region R11, rightward Y of the batch process tank BT6, shown by chain double-dashed lines inFIG.18. Accordingly, when the pipes in the region11is complicated in construction, the batch treatment region R1is elongated in the transverse direction Y. Since the posture turning unit63of the second posture turning mechanism31is provided adjacent to the single-wafer transportation region R2, the center robot CR can easily access the posture turning unit63.

Moreover, the second posture turning mechanism31may be provided over the batch treatment region R1. For example, the second posture turning mechanism31may be provided so as to enter the single-wafer transportation region R2. Here inFIG.18, the buffer unit33is provided in the transferring block5.(5) In the embodiments and the modifications described above, when the second transport mechanism WTR2transports substrates W from the pusher mechanism61, the lifting member73moves the chucks69,70upward and downward, whereby the second transport mechanism WTR2receives the substrates W. In this regard, the second transport mechanism WTR2may receive the substrates W from the pusher mechanism61by moving the pusher65, holding the substrates W in the vertical posture, upward and downward by the lifting and rotating portion67of the pusher mechanism61. Moreover, the second transport mechanism WTR2may receive the substrates W from the pusher mechanism61by moving the chucks69,70upward by the lifting member73and moving the pusher65downward by the lifting and rotating portion67.