Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for transporting an object from one location to another location within a manufacturing environment. The apparatus comprises a rotary union extending along a first longitudinal axis and configured to rotate axially about the first longitudinal axis and translate longitudinally along the longitudinal axis, and a first drive extending along a second longitudinal axis and configured to support a first paddle assembly that is adapted to hold the object. The first drive is supported for movement by the rotary union, wherein the first drive is configured to move the paddle assembly in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the second longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A paddle assembly is disclosed for holding an object during manufacture i.e., in a manufacturing environment. The paddle assembly comprises a first plate and a second plate, together forming a paddle having a longitudinal axis and defining a groove configured to engage the object on a peripheral edge thereof and seat the object along the longitudinal axis and a first pin between the first and second plates adjacent the groove, the first pin configured to align the object within the groove along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a substrate is provided. The apparatus includes an upper portion housing an electric motor, the electric motor having a drive shaft. A motor housing encloses the electric motor. A pivot bracket having a first end and a second end, where the first end of the pivot bracket is coupled to the drive shaft. The apparatus includes a lower portion having a top surface affixed to the second end of the pivot bracket. The lower portion includes a plurality of paddle assemblies each having support extensions extending though a bearing assembly of the lower portion. Each of the paddle assemblies has an independent drive assembly disposed between corresponding support extensions, wherein the lower portion translates between a vertical and horizontal orientation by pivoting around an axis of the driveshaft.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a substrate is provided. The apparatus includes an upper portion housing an electric motor, the electric motor having a drive shaft. A motor housing encloses the electric motor. A pivot bracket having a first end and a second end, where the first end of the pivot bracket is coupled to the drive shaft. The apparatus includes a lower portion having a top surface affixed to the second end of the pivot bracket. The lower portion includes a plurality of paddle assemblies each having support extensions extending though a bearing assembly of the lower portion. Each of the paddle assemblies has an independent drive assembly disposed between corresponding support extensions, wherein the lower portion translates between a vertical and horizontal orientation by pivoting around an axis of the drive shaft.