CRANE AND STOCKER SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME

A stocker system includes a main frame, a plurality of shelves disposed within the main frame, and a crane adjacent to the main frame. The crane includes a lower module that includes a plurality of lower profiles. An upper module is disposed on the lower module. The upper module includes a plurality of upper profiles and at least one upper expandable plate. The plurality of upper profiles is disposed on the plurality of lower profiles. The at least one upper expandable plate is disposed between the plurality of upper profiles.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATION

This non-provisional patent application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0000718, filed on Jan. 04, 2022 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a crane, a stocker system including the same, and an installation method thereof.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Various kinds of stocker systems are used in a process of manufacturing a semiconductor device. A stocker system includes a crane and a plurality of shelves for transfer and storage of a material to be transferred. Transport and installation of the crane takes time and may involve risk of a safety incident.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure provide a crane that can reduce installation time and prevent safety incidents, a stocker system including the same, and an installation method thereof.

A stocker system according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a main frame, a plurality of shelves disposed within the main frame, and a crane adjacent to the main frame. The crane includes a lower module that includes a plurality of lower profiles, and an upper module disposed on the lower module. The upper module includes a plurality of upper profiles disposed on the plurality of lower profiles, and at least one upper expandable plate disposed between the plurality of upper profiles.

A crane according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a lower module that includes a plurality of lower profiles spaced apart from one another. An upper module is disposed on the lower module. The upper module includes a plurality of upper profiles disposed on the plurality of lower profiles. At least one upper expandable plate is disposed between the plurality of upper profiles.

A crane according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a lower plate, a lower module disposed on the lower plate while including a plurality of lower profiles spaced apart from one another, a middle module disposed on the lower module, an upper module disposed on the middle module, and an upper plate disposed on the upper module. The middle module includes a plurality of middle profiles disposed on the plurality of lower profiles, and at least one middle expandable plate disposed between the plurality of middle profiles. The upper module includes a plurality of upper profiles disposed on the plurality of middle profiles, and at least one upper expandable plate disposed between the plurality of upper profiles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a perspective view of a crane100according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, the crane100according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a lower plate11, a lower module20, a middle module40, an upper module60, and an upper plate93.

The lower module20includes a plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, a plurality of lower elevation guides27, and a plurality of lower stoppers29. The middle module40includes a plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, a plurality of middle elevation guides47, a plurality of middle stoppers49, a plurality of middle guide blocks54, and a plurality of middle expandable plates55. The upper module60includes a plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, a plurality of upper elevation guides67, a plurality of upper guide blocks74, and a plurality of expandable plates75.

FIG.2is a layout of the lower module20ofFIG.1,FIG.3is a perspective view of the lower module20ofFIG.1. In an embodiment,FIG.2a schematic viewed from the top side ofFIG.3.FIG.4is a partial view of a portion ofFIG.3.

Referring toFIG.2, in an embodiment, the lower module20includes a plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, a plurality of lower elevation guides27, a plurality of lower stoppers29, and a plurality of lower positioning pins31. The plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24include a first lower profile21, a second lower profile22, a third lower profile23, and a fourth lower profile24.

in an embodiment, the first lower profile21includes a first portion21A and a second portion21B. The second portion21B intersects the first portion21A. The second portion21B perpendicularly intersects the first portion21A. The second portion21B is continuous with one end of the first portion21A. The intersection of second portion21B and the first portion21A forms a corner. Each of the second lower profile22, the third lower profile23, and the fourth lower profile24includes a configuration similar to that of the first lower profile21.

The plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24are spaced apart from each other. The plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24are respectively disposed at corners of a rectangular shape, For example, the second lower profile22faces the first lower profile21, and the fourth lower profile24faces the third lower profile23, The third lower profile23faces the first lower profile21in a diagonal direction, and the fourth lower profile24faces the second lower profile22in a diagonal direction.

The plurality of lower elevation guides27are disposed on the insides of the first lower profile21and the second lower profile22. Each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27contacts the inside of a corresponding first lower profile21or second lower profile22. Each of the plural ty of lower elevation guides27may have one of various shapes. For example, each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27has a rail shape.

The plurality of lower stoppers29contact outside surfaces of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. For example, one of the plurality of lower stoppers29contacts an outside surface of the first portion21A. Another one of the plurality of lower stoppers29contacts an outside surface of the second portion21B.

The plurality of lower positioning pins31are disposed on the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. For example, one of the plurality of lower positioning pins31is disposed on a earlier of the first lower profile21. One of the plurality of lower positioning pins31is disposed at an intersection between the first portion21A and the second portion21B.

Referring toFIG.3, in an embodiment, the lower module20includes the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, the plurality of lower elevation guides27, the plurality of lower stoppers29, and the plurality of lower positioning pins31.

Each of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24has a vertical height greater than a horizontal width thereof. Each of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24has substantially the same vertical length. Each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27contacts an inside surface of a corresponding first lower profile21or second lower profile22. Each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27has substantially the same vertical length as a corresponding first lower profile21or second lower profile22.

The plurality of lower stoppers29are disposed in an upper region of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. A lower end of each of the plurality of lower stoppers29is located at a lower level than an uppermost surface of a corresponding lower profile21,22,23or24. The plurality of lower stoppers29contact the outside surfaces of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. An upper end of each of the plurality of lower stoppers29protrudes above a level of an uppermost surface of a corresponding lower profile21,22,23or24.

The plurality of lower positioning pins31are disposed on the upper corners of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower positioning pins31contact upper surfaces of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. An uppermost end of each of the plurality of lower positioning pins31protrudes above a level of an upper surface of a corresponding lower profile21,22,23or24.

Referring toFIG.4in an embodiment, the plurality of lower stoppers29are disposed on an outside surface of the third lower profile23. Each of the plurality of lower stoppers29protrudes above a level of an uppermost end of the third lower profile23. One of the plurality of lower positioning pins31is disposed at an upper surface of the third lower profile23. One of the plurality of lower positioning pins31protrudes above a level of the uppermost end of the third lower profile23. Although the lower positioning pin31is shown as having a hexahedral shape, this is for convenience of illustration, and the lower positioning pins31may have any of various shapes such as a circular column shape, an ameba shape, a dumbbell shape, a rail shape, or a combination thereof.

The plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, the plurality of lower stoppers29, and the plurality of lower positioning pins31have configurations similar to those shown inFIG.4.

FIG.5is a layout of a portion ofFIG.1.FIG.6is a perspective view of a portion ofFIG.1. In an embodiment,FIG.5is a schematic viewed from the top side ofFIG.6.FIG.7is a partial view of a portion ofFIG.6.FIGS.8and9are schematic views of a portion ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.5, in an embodiment, the middle module40include a plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, a plurality of middle elevation guides47, a plurality of middle stoppers49, a plurality of middle positioning pins51, a plurality of middle guide blocks54, and a plurality of middle expandable plates55. The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44include a first middle profile41, a second middle profile42, a third middle profile43and a fourth middle profile44.

The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44have a configuration similar to that of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are spaced apart from one another. The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are disposed at corners of a rectangular shape, respectively. For example, the second middle profile42faces the first middle profile41, and the fourth middle profile44faces the third middle profile43. The third middle profile43faces the first middle profile41in a diagonal direction, and the fourth middle profile44faces the second middle profile42in a diagonal direction.

The plurality of middle elevation guides47are disposed on the insides of the first middle profile41and the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47contacts the inside of a corresponding first middle profile41or the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47has a shape similar to that of each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27. For example, each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47has a rail shape.

The plurality of middle stoppers49contact outside surfaces of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of middle positioning pins51are respectively disposed on the corners of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44.

The plurality of middle guide blocks54are disposed on the outsides of the first middle profile41and the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle guide blocks54contacts the outside of a corresponding profile of the first middle profile41and the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle guide blocks54has a shape that enables the middle guide block54to be coupled to a corresponding lower elevation guide27.

The plurality of middle expandable plates55are disposed between the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, respectively. For example, the plurality of middle expandable plates55respectively connect the first and second middle profiles41and42, the second and third middle profiles42and43, the third and fourth middle profiles43and44, and the fourth and first middle profiles44and41. The plurality of middle expandable plates55contact the outside surfaces of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of middle expandable plates55are vertically spaced apart from one another.

Referring toFIG.6, in an embodiment, the middle module40includes the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, the plurality of middle elevation guides47, the plurality of middle stoppers49, the plurality of middle positioning pins51, the plurality of middle guide blocks54, and the plurality of middle expandable plates55.

Each of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44has a vertical height greater than a horizontal width thereof. Each of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44has substantially the same vertical length.

Each of the plurality of middle elevation guides27contacts an inside surface of a corresponding first middle profile41or the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47has substantially the same vertical length as a corresponding first middle profile41or second middle profile42.

The plurality of middle stoppers49are disposed in an upper region of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. A lower end of each of the plurality of middle stoppers49is located at a lower level than an uppermost surface of corresponding middle profile41,42,43or44. The plurality of middle stoppers49contact the outside surfaces of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. An upper end of each of the plurality of middle stoppers49protrudes above a level of an uppermost surface of a corresponding middle profile4142,43or44.

The plurality of middle positioning pins51are disposed on upper corners of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of middle positioning pins51contact upper surfaces of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. An uppermost end of each of the plurality of middle positioning pins51protrudes above a level of an upper surface of a corresponding middle profile41,42,43or44. Each of the plurality of middle positioning pins51has a configuration similar to that of the lower positioning pin31(seeFIG.4). Each of the plurality of middle positioning pins51has substantially the same shape as a corresponding lower positioning pin31(seeFIG.3).

The plurality of middle guide blocks54are disposed at an outside lower region of the first middle profile41and the second middle profile42. The plurality of middle guide blocks54contact the outsides of the first middle profile41and the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle guide blocks54has a shape that enables the middle guide block54to be coupled to a corresponding lower elevation guide27.

The plurality of middle expandable plates55contact the outside surfaces of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of middle expandable plates55are spaced apart from each other. For example, pairs of the plurality of middle expandable plates55are disposed between adjacent pairs of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, respectively.

Referring toFIG.7, in an embodiment, a positioning hole52is disposed at a lower corner of the second middle profile42. Each of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44includes the positioning hole52. The positioning hole52has a shape that enables the positioning hole52to be coupled to the lower positioning pin31(seeFIG.4). For example, the positioning hole52extends inwards from a lower surface of the second middle profile42.

One of the plurality of middle guide blocks54is disposed on an outside lower region of the second profile42. One of the plurality of middle elevation guides47is disposed on an inside surface of the second middle profile42.

Referring toFIGS.8and9, in an embodiment, the plurality of middle expandable plates55include a structure having a variable width. For example, the plurality of middle expandable plates55include various kinds of elastic members such as a coil spring, a plate spring, or a combination thereof. The plurality of middle expandable plates55include at least one of an elastic member, a shape memory structure, or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of middle expandable plates55includes a first plate55A, a second plate55B, a third plate55C, and a plurality of springs55S1and55S2. The second plate55B is opposite to the first plate55A. The third plate55C is disposed between the first plate55A and the second plate55B. The third plate55C overlaps the first plate55A and the second plate55B. The plurality of springs55S1and55S2are mounted within the third plate55C. For example, each of the plurality of springs55S1and55S2includes at least one of a coil spring, a plate spring, or a combination thereof.

The plurality of springs55S1and55S2include a plurality of first springs55S1and a plurality of second springs55S2. The plurality of first springs55S1are connected between the first plate55A and the third plate55C. The plurality of second springs55S2are connected between the second plate55B and the third plate55C. As shown inFIG.8, each of the plurality of middle expandable plates55has a smaller horizontal width in a compressed state than in an expanded state. As shown inFIG.9, each of the plurality of middle expandable plates55has a greater horizontal width in an expanded state than in a compressed state.

FIG.10is a layout of a portion ofFIG.1.FIG.11is a perspective view of a portion ofFIG.1. In an embodiment,FIG.10is a schematic viewed from the top side ofFIG.11.

Referring toFIG.10, in an embodiment, the upper module60includes a plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, a plurality of upper elevation guides67, a plurality of upper cam followers71, a plurality of upper guide blocks74, and a plurality of upper expandable plates75. The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64include a first upper profile61, a second upper profile62, a third upper profile63and a fourth upper profile64.

The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64have a configuration similar to those of the plurality of middle profiles4142,43and44and the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are spaced apart from each other. The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are disposed at corners of a rectangular shape, respectively. For example, the second upper profile62faces the first upper profile61, and the fourth upper profile64faces the third upper profile63. The third upper profile63faces the first upper profile61in a diagonal direction, and the fourth upper profile64faces the second upper profile62in a diagonal direction.

The plurality of upper elevation guides67are disposed on the insides of the first upper profile61and the second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper elevation guides47contacts the inside of a corresponding first upper profile61or second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper elevation guides67has a shape similar to those of each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47and each of the plurality of lower elevation guides27For example, each of the plurality of upper elevation guides67has a rail shape.

The plurality of upper cam followers71are disposed on the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64.

The plurality of upper guide blocks74are disposed on the outside of the first upper profile61and the second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper guide blocks74contacts the outside of a corresponding first upper profile61or second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper guide blocks74has a shape that enables the upper guide block74to be coupled to a corresponding middle elevation guide47.

The plurality of upper expandable plates75are disposed between the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, respectively. For example, the plurality of upper expandable plates75respectively connect the first and second upper profiles61and62, the second and third upper profiles62and63, the third and fourth upper profiles63and64, and the fourth and first upper profiles64and61. The plurality of upper expandable plates75contact the outside surfaces of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64The plurality of upper expandable plates75are vertically spaced apart from each other.

Referring toFIG.11, in an embodiment, the upper module60includes the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, the plurality of upper elevation guides67, the plurality of upper cam followers71, the plurality of upper guide blocks74, and the plurality of upper expandable plates75.

Each of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64has a vertical height greater than a horizontal width thereof. Each of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64has substantially the same vertical length.

Each of the plurality of upper elevation guides67contacts art inside surface of a corresponding first upper profile61or the second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper elevation guides67has substantially the same vertical length as a corresponding first upper profile61or second upper profile62.

The plurality of upper cam followers71are disposed on upper corners of the plurality of upper profiles61,62.63and64. The plurality of upper cam followers71contact upper surfaces of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. An uppermost end of each of the plurality of upper cam followers71protrudes above a level of the upper surface of a corresponding upper profile61,62,63or64. Each of the plurality of upper cam followers71has a configuration similar to those of the plurality of middle positioning pins51and the plurality of lower positioning pins31(seeFIG.4).

The plurality of upper guide blocks74are disposed on art outside lower region of the first upper profile61and the second upper profile62. The plurality of upper guide blocks74contact the outsides of the first upper profile61and the second upper profile62. Each of the plurality of upper guide blocks64has a shape that enables the upper guide block64to be coupled to a corresponding middle elevation guide47.

The plurality of upper expandable plates75contact the outside surfaces of the upper profiles61,62,63and64. The plurality of upper expandable plates75are spaced apart from each other. For example, pairs of the plurality of upper expandable plates75are disposed between adjacent pairs of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, respectively. Each of the plurality of upper expandable plates75has a configuration similar to that of the plurality of middle expandable plates55described with reference toFIGS.8and9.

Each of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64includes the positioning hole52described with reference toFIG.7.

FIG.12is a layout of a portion ofFIG.1

Referring toFIG.12, in an embodiment, the upper plate93includes a plurality of cam guides94and a plurality of openings96. The plurality of cam guides94include grooves to which the plurality of cam followers71can be coupled, respectively. The plurality of openings96are aligned with the plurality of lower stoppers29and the plurality of middle stoppers49.

Referring again toFIGS.1to12, the lower module20is disposed o the lower plate11. The plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24are mounted at designated positions on the lower plate11.

The middle module40is disposed on the lower module20. The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are respectively mounted on the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of middle expandable plates55are expanded based on positions of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24and the plurality of lower stoppers29. Each of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding lower profile21,22,23or24. The plurality of lower positioning pins31are respectively coupled to the plurality of positioning holes52of the plurality of middle pro files41,42,43and44.

The plurality of lower stoppers29contact the outsides of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24and the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of lower stoppers29are coupled to the outsides of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24and the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44using various methods, such as bolting (boil/nut), riveting, welding, clamping, or a combination thereof. Each of the middle elevation guides47is disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding lower elevation guide27.

The upper module60is disposed on the middle module40. The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are respectively disposed on the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of upper expandable plates75are expanded based on positions of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, the plurality of middle stoppers49, and the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. Each of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding middle profile41,42,43or44. The plurality of middle positioning pins51are respectively coupled to the plurality of positioning holes52of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64.

The plurality of middle stoppers49contact the outsides of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The plurality of middle stoppers49are coupled to the outsides of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64using various methods, such as bolting (bolt/nut), riveting, welding, clamping, or a combination thereof. Each of the plurality of elevation guides67is disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding middle elevation guide47.

The upper plate93is disposed on the upper module60. The upper plate93is mounted on the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The plurality of cam guides94are respectively coupled to the plurality of upper cam followers71. The plurality of upper cam followers71are confined by the plurality of cam guides94.

Each of the lower plate11, the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, the plurality of lower elevation guides27, the plurality of lower stoppers29, the plurality of lower positioning pins31, the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, the plurality of middle elevation guides47, the plurality of middle stoppers49, the plurality of middle positioning pins51, the plurality of middle guide blocks54, the plurality of middle expandable plates55, the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, the plurality of upper elevation guides67, the plurality of upper cam followers71, the plurality of upper guide blocks74, the plurality of upper expandable plates75, and the upper plate93include at least one of a metal, an engineering plastic, graphite, graphene, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, each of the lower plate11, the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, the plurality of lower elevation guides27, the plurality of lower stoppers29, the plurality of lower positioning pins31, the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, the plurality of middle elevation guides47, the plurality of middle stoppers49, the plurality of middle positioning pins51, the plurality of middle guide blocks54, the plurality of middle expandable plates55, the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64, the plurality of upper elevation guides67, the plurality of upper cam followers71, the plurality of upper guide blocks74, the plurality of upper expandable plates75, and the upper plate93includes one of aluminum, stainless steel, or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, one or a plurality of other middle modules that include configuration similar to that of the middle module40may be additionally disposed between the lower module20and the middle module40, and/or between the middle module40and the upper module60. In an embodiment, the middle module40is omitted.

FIG.13is a perspective view of a stocker system1200that includes a crane according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.FIGS.14and15are perspective views of portions ofFIG.13.

Referring toFIG.13, the stocker system1200according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure includes a crane100, a crane base130, a task robot150, a main frame210, a plurality of automatic ports230, and a manual port235.

Each of the plurality of automatic ports230and the manual port235are disposed at one side of the main frame210. The crane100is disposed adjacent to the main frame210, the plurality of automatic ports230, and the manual port235. The crane100is disposed on the crane base130. The task robot150is disposed within the crane100. In an embodiment, the crane100and the crane base130are disposed within the main frame210. In an embodiment, the crane100and the crane base130are disposed outside the main frame210.

Referring toFIG.14, in an embodiment, the crane100is disposed on the crane base130. The crane base130provides a movement path for the crane100. The crane100can horizontally move along the crane base130. The task robot150is disposed within the crane100. The crane100provides a movement path of the task robot150. The task robot150can move upwards and downwards within the crane100.

Referring toFIG.15, in an embodiment, a plurality of shelves213are disposed within the main frame210. In an embodiment, material to be transferred, such as a front opening unified pod (FOUP) or a front opening shipping box (FOSB) that can contain a wafer therein, are stored on the plurality of shelves213.

Referring again toFIGS.1to15, in an embodiment, the plurality of automatic ports230can receive or eject material to be transferred, such as the front opening unified pod (FOUP) or the front opening shipping box (FOSB), from or to a ceiling type transfer device or an automatic transfer device such as an overhead hoist transfer (OTH) device. The manual port235can receive or eject a material to be transferred, such as the front opening unified pod (FOUP) or the front opening shipping box (FOSB), from or to an operator.

The crane100can move along the crane base130to be adjacent to the plurality of automatic ports230, the manual port235or the plurality of shelves213. The task robot150includes a forking robot. The task robot150can move upwards and downwards along the plurality of lower elevation guides27, the plurality of middle elevation guides47and the plurality of upper elevation guides67within the crane100.

The task robot150can perform horizontal movements and vertical movements by being coupled to the crane100. The task robot150can lift, lower, rotate or move material to be transferred, such as the front opening unified pod (FOUP) or the front opening shipping box (FOSB). The task robot150can carry material to be transferred among the plurality of automatic ports230, the manual port235and the plurality of shelves213.

FIGS.16to24are perspective views of a crane100according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.16, in an embodiment, a plurality of middle expandable plates55and a plurality of upper expandable plates75are disposed using a combination of various spacings and various numbers. In an embodiment, the plurality of middle expandable plates55and the plurality of upper expandable plates75have substantially the same spacing. For example, a pair of middle expandable plates55are disposed between a second middle profile42and a third middle profile43. A pair of upper expandable plates75are disposed between a second upper profile62and a third upper profile63. The spacing of the pair of middle expandable plates55and the spacing of the pair of upper expandable plates75is substantially the same.

Referring toFIG.17, in an embodiment, fiddle expandable plates55are disposed between a plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The middle expandable plates55are located at a level that is lower than a center of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. Upper expandable plates75are disposed between a plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The upper expandable plates75are located at a level that is lower than a center of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64.

Referring toFIG.18, in an embodiment, a lower module20includes a plurality of lower expandable plates35. In an embodiment, lower expandable plates35are disposed between a plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The lower expandable plate35are located at a level that is higher than a center of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower expandable plates35have a configuration similar to those of the plurality of middle expandable plates55and the plurality of upper expandable plates75.

Referring toFIG.19, in an embodiment, a lower module20includes a plurality of lower supports36. In an embodiment, lower supports36are disposed between the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. A lower support36is disposed between each pair of adjacent lower profiles21,22,23and24. The lower supports36are located at a level that is higher than a center of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower supports36fix the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24.

Referring toFIG.20, in an embodiment, a plurality of lower expandable plates35are disposed between a plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower expandable plates35, a plurality of middle expandable plates55and a plurality of upper expandable plates75have substantially the same spacing in a vertical direction. For example, a pair of lower expandable plates35is disposed between a second lower profile22and a third lower profile23. A pair of middle expandable plates55is disposed between a second middle profile42and a third middle profile43. A pair of upper expandable plates75is disposed between a second upper profile62and a third upper profile63. The vertical spacing of the pair of lower expandable plates35, the vertical spacing of the pair of middle expandable plates55and the vertical spacing of the pair of upper expandable plates75are substantially the same.

Referring toFIG.21, in an embodiment, a plurality of lower supports36are disposed between the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower supports36, the plurality of middle expandable plates55and the plurality of upper expandable plates75have substantially the same vertical spacing.

Referring toFIG.22, in an embodiment, middle supports56are disposed between a plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The middle support56is disposed at a level that is higher than a center of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. Middle expandable plates55are disposed between the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The middle expandable plates55are disposed at a level that is lower than the center of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44.

Upper supports76are disposed between a plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The upper supports76are disposed at a level that is higher than a center of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. Upper expandable plates75are disposed between the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The upper expandable plate75are disposed at a level that is lower than the center of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. Vertical spacings of the middle expandable plate55, the middle support56, the upper expandable plate75and the upper support76are substantially the same.

Referring toFIG.23, in an embodiment, lower supports36are disposed between the plurality of lower profiles2122,23and24. The lower supports36are disposed at a level that is, higher than a center of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. Vertical spacings of the lower support36, the middle expandable plate55, the middle support56, the upper expandable plate75and the upper support76are substantially the same.

Referring toFIG.24, in an embodiment, a plurality of lower supports36are disposed between plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24. The plurality of lower supports36, a plurality of middle expandable plates55, a plurality of middle supports56, a plurality of upper expandable plates75, and a plurality of upper supports76have substantially the same vertical spacing.

FIGS.25to34are schematic views that illustrate an installation method of a stocker system that includes a crane according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.25, in an embodiment, a crane100is transported using a transport device312.

Referring toFIG.26, in an embodiment, the crane100includes a lower plate11, a lower module20, a middle module40, an upper module60, and an upper plate93. The lower module20is disposed on and fixed to the lower plate11. The middle module40is received within the lower module20in a compressed state and, as such, is mounted on the lower plate11. The upper module60is received within the middle module40in a compressed state and, as such, is mounted on the lower plate11. The upper plate93covers the lower module20, the middle module40and the upper module60in a plan view.

FIG.27is a layout as viewed from the top side of the crane100.FIG.28is a schematic view of disposition of the lower module20, the middle module40and the upper module60, except for the upper plate93.

Referring toFIGS.26and27, in an embodiment, a plurality of upper cam followers71are coupled to a plurality of cam guides94of the upper plate93. The plurality of upper cam followers71are confined by the plurality of cam guides94. A plurality of lower stoppers29and a plurality of middle stoppers49are disposed in a plurality of openings96of the upper plate93.

Referring toFIGS.26to28, in an embodiment, each of a plurality of middle guide blocks54is coupled to a corresponding lower elevation guide27. Each of a plurality of upper guide blocks74is coupled to a corresponding middle elevation guide47.

Referring toFIG.29, in an embodiment, the crane100is coupled to a stacker342using a jig344.

Referring toFIG.30, in an embodiment, the stacker342places the crane100on a crane base130using the jig344. The crane100is disposed on and coupled to the crane base130. For example, the lower plate11is disposed on and fixed to the crane base130. When the lower plate11is omitted, each of lower profiles21,22,23and24is fixed to a designated position on the crane base130.

Referring toFIG.31, in an embodiment, the stacker342lifts the upper plate93and the upper module60using the jig344. While lifting the upper module60, the plurality of upper guide blocks74are confined by the plurality of middle elevation guides47.

Referring toFIG.32, in an embodiment, when a plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64is lifted to a higher level than a plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44, the plurality of upper guide blocks74are released from confinement by the plurality of middle elevation guides47. A plurality of upper expandable plates75are expanded in a horizontal direction. The plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are moved in accordance with expansion of the plurality of upper expandable plates75. The plurality of cam guides94limit a movement path of the plurality of upper cam followers71. A movement path of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64is limited by the plurality of earn guides94. The plurality of middle stoppers49stop movement of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. A plurality of positioning holes52(seeFIG.7) of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are respectively coupled to a plurality of middle positioning pins51. Each of the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64is disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding middle profile41,42,43and44.

The plurality of middle stoppers49contact the outsides of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64. The plurality of middle stoppers49are fixed to the outsides of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64using various methods, such as bolting (bolt/nut), riveting, welding, clamping, or a combination thereof. Each of the plurality of elevation guides67are disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding middle elevation guide47.

Referring toFIG.33, in an embodiment, the stacker342lifts the upper plate93, the upper module60, and the middle module40using the jig344. While lifting the middle module40, the plurality of middle guide blocks54are confined by the plurality of lower elevation guides27.

Referring toFIG.34, in an embodiment, when the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are raised to a higher level than the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24, the plurality of middle guide blocks54are released from confinement by the plurality of lower elevation guides27. The plurality of middle expandable plates55and the plurality of upper expandable plates75are expanded in a horizontal direction. The plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are moved in accordance with the expansion of the plurality of middle expandable plates55and the plurality of upper expandable plates75. The plurality of cam guides94limit a movement path of the plurality of upper cam followers71. Movement paths of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44and the plurality of upper profiles61,62,63and64are limited by the plurality of earn guides94.

The plurality of lower stoppers29stop movement of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43arid44. The plurality of positioning holes52(seeFIG.7) of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44are coupled to the plurality of lower positioning pins31. Each of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44is disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding lower profile21,22,23and24.

The plurality of lower stoppers29contact an outside of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24and the outside of the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44. The plurality of lower stoppers29are fixed to the outsides of the plurality of lower profiles21,22,23and24and the plurality of middle profiles41,42,43and44using various methods, such as bolting (bolt/nut), riveting, welding, clamping, or a combination thereof. Each of the plurality of middle elevation guides47is disposed over and vertically aligned with a corresponding lower elevation guide27.

The stacker342and the jig344are removed.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, a stocker system that includes a crane adjacent to a main frame is provided. The crane includes a lower module, a middle module, and an upper module. The middle module and the upper module include a plurality of middle expandable plates and a plurality of upper expandable plates. A crane is provided that can reduce an installation time and prevent safety incidents, a stocker system is provided that includes the same, and an installation method thereof is provided.

While the embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of embodiments of the disclosure. Therefore, above-described embodiments should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.