Abstract: A standardized mechanical interface (SMIF) pod for use in conjunction with SMIF systems is disclosed. The pod is utilized for transporting article, such as semiconductor wafers or the like, between locations such as SMIF processing stations. The pod includes a box having an open end and a box door which sealably engages and closes the open end. The box contains a removable carrier which seats on the box door and which has an open side for insertion and removal of the articles. The pod features a latching mechanism in the box door utilizing a star wheel with tips that rotate and extend out of slots in the box door into slots in the interior sidewalls of the box. The tips then move vertically downward to sealingly engage the box door to the box. The star wheel embraces a concentric cammed hub having angled cam surfaces engaged by cam follower pins extending radially inward from the star wheel.

Abstract: Apparatus identifying an instrumentality such as a person's hand or an article of merchandise, wherein the instrumentality carries a tag incorporating a transponder generating and transmitting a radio frequency identification signal in response to a radio frequency transmitted inquiry, a nest comprising an identifying station and incorporating a proximity sensor sensing the presence of the instrumentality at the identifying station and producing an indication of the presence or absence of the instrumentality, the identifying station comprising a radio frequency sensor portion generating a radio frequency transmitted inquiry transmitted to the transponder in response to sensing the presence of the instrumentality and receiving the radio frequency identification signal from the transponder, the proximity sensor terminating generation of the radio frequency transmitted inquiry when a clear and reliable output indication identifying the tag has been produced, and the proximity sensor also preventing, after produc

Abstract: A strong and rigid carrier of substantial size fabricated of melt processible plastic for flat glass panels being processed for use in flat panel displays. The carrier has a pair of light weight but rigid and strong end walls in confronting and spaced relation to each other. Each end wall has a periphery thereabout and central ribs with an inclined panel adjoining the central ribs and traversing the height of the central ribs. Outwardly extending mounting flanges adjoin the periphery with a multiplicity of annular bosses protruding inwardly from the flanges. Large openings are in the end walls to allow machine and fluid processing access to the glass panel within the carrier. The carrier has a front open side and two sidewalls in confronting and spaced relation. The sidewalls each have a multiplicity of elongate sidewall segments each preferably being tubular and oblong in cross section or having portions which extend transversely and obliquely of the peripheries of each end wall.