Patent ID: 7654596

Claim:
An endeffector for handling semiconductor wafers comprising: a base member having a proximal end and a distal end, the base member having a top surface configured to receive a semiconductor wafer; a plurality of support members located on the top surface of the base member, the plurality of support members being configured to contact a wafer received on the top surface; a pushing device for positioning a wafer on the base member, the pushing device comprising a retractable piston configured to contact an edge of a semiconductor wafer, the piston being movable between an extended position and a retracted position; a biasing member placed in association with the piston, the biasing member biasing the piston towards its retracted position; a pneumatic actuator in operative association with the piston, the pneumatic actuator being configured to receive a pressurized gas that is used to overcome a force being applied to the piston by the biasing member and move the piston from the retracted position to an extended position; and a suction device positioned adjacent to the pneumatic actuator, the suction device being configured to create a suction force for capturing any particles that are released during movement of the piston.