Abstract: A wafer transport mechanism is disclosed capable of transferring workpiece cassettes between lot boxes and SMIF pods. The transport mechanism includes a frame having a first support platform on a first side of the frame for supporting a SMIF pod, and a second support platform on a second side of the frame for supporting a lot box. The frame further includes a carrier transfer mechanism which resides completely within the frame when in a home position. The transfer mechanism includes an arm and a gripper pivotally mounted to the arm. Once a SMIF pod and lot box are seated on their respective support platforms, the transfer mechanism transfers a cassette between the two containers.

Abstract: A wafer transport mechanism is disclosed capable of transferring workpiece cassettes between lot boxes and SMIF pods. The transport mechanism includes a frame having a first support platform on a first side of the frame for supporting a SMIF pod, and a second support platform on a second side of the frame for supporting a lot box. The frame further includes a carrier transfer mechanism which resides completely within the frame when in a home position. The transfer mechanism includes an arm and a gripper pivotally mounted to the arm. Once a SMIF pod and lot box are seated on their respective support platforms, the transfer mechanism transfers a cassette between the two containers.

Abstract: A universal interface and transfer apparatus is disclosed which may be configured either as an indexer or a load port opener. In each configuration, the universal interface and transfer apparatus includes a port plate having a central opening, and a port door fitting within and sealing the central opening when no pod is present on the apparatus. The apparatus further includes a base and a frame mounted on and extending up from a front of the base. A modular drive assembly is mounted within an exterior side of the frame, which drive assembly includes a linear drive screw, and a motor and torque transmission mechanism for rotating the linear drive screw. A carriage is mounted on the linear drive screw such that rotation of the linear drive screw results in vertical translation of the carriage.

Abstract: A beverage container lid is disclosed whereby the contents of the container may be accessed via a foldable tear strip flap defined by two score lines directed radially on the lid surface, a lift tab at the peripheral sealing skirt which mates with the rim of the container, and a multi-grooved hinge that allows for easy folding of the flap into a recess in the lid surface. Each of the two side walls of the recess has a retaining lug whereby when the user desires access to the container the flap is torn free of the peripheral sealing skirt by means of the lift tab, folded back, and inserted into the recess so as to wedge the flap below the retaining lugs which secure the flap by its opposite edges.