Abstract: A system and method for automatically generating software such that coding of a source program for use in controlling equipments may be automatically performed to the selection of data corresponding to a SECS message defining operations of the semiconductor fabricating equipments in the SECS message communications for a semiconductor fabricating or processing system. According to the present invention, it is possible to rapidly automate the equipment and perform ease maintenance and repair of the fabricating equipments and provide a more static environment for fabricating the semiconductor.

Abstract: An elapsed time clock is incorporated into a part call tag for requesting replenishment of components used by workstations of a manufacturing facility. One or more transmission readers spatially distributed around the manufacturing facility detect a part call signal transmitted from the part call tag. A reader output processing subsystem processes part call signals detected by at least one of the tag transmission readers to recover information contained in the part call signal. A management processor associates the recovered information with a respective workstation, and what component is to be replenished. The elapsed time clock is reset when the part call tag is operated to transmit a part call signal, and thereby serves as a call tag ‘stop watch’—informing workstation personnel of the length of time that has elapsed since the last part call transmission from that tag.

Abstract: A process automation system includes terminals for operating and monitoring purposes, automation devices for executing control functions, and a host computer. Communication between the terminals and the automation devices is exclusively established via the host computer. The host computer may be installed remotely, in a computing center.

Abstract: A method of remotely monitoring and controlling a manufacturing facility through a manufacturing execution system (MES) uses wireless devices connected to a web server through a transcoding proxy. The wireless devices, such as portable digital assistants or cell phones, request information about the manufacturing process from the web server by requesting web pages containing the desired information. The web pages are modified by the transcoding proxy so that they may be correctly displayed on the screen of the wireless device. The MES can also be controlled by a wireless device. The wireless device passes control commands through the transcoding proxy to the web server, which sends them to the MES to control production in the manufacturing facility.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for controlling priority of lots employed in a MES, and more particularly, to a method for controlling priority of lots employed in a MES, wherein the priority of the lots provided by the MES can be automatically set up depending on a processing cycle time.

Abstract: A computer-based system to create and modify documents used in a tool management program. A word processing module is used to create the document, in conjunction with a graphics module. The graphics module includes representations of all of the tools used in a maintenance program, as well as representations of toolbox panels into which the tools are placed. A user simply drags selected tools into selected panels to. create a tool-filled panel graphic which may be directly imported into the document in the word processing module. The tools also have certain attributes defined by associated data. A data interface arrangement is operable to convey certain selected data from the graphics module to the document in the word processing module, after preselected sorting.

Abstract: A process management system for at least one of monitoring and controlling operation of a machine comprises at least one sensor assembly capable of being disposed on the machine for at least one of sensing, monitoring, and transmitting machine process variables of the machine, the at least one sensor assembly is capable of transmitting signals concerning the machine process variables; at least one machine operator control unit that is capable of receiving signals transmitted from the at least one sensor assembly, the at least one machine operator control unit being capable of generating information concerning machine process variables; at least one process management system control unit that is capable of being connected to the at least one machine operator control unit; at least one communications link that interconnects the at least one sensor assembly on the machine, the at least one machine operator control unit, and the at least one process management system control unit, each communications link capable

Abstract: The internet bonding diagram system comprises a processing unit to process the information send by a user via a network. A blank lead frame/substrate database is coupled to the processing unit to store lead frame information. A job database is coupled to the processing unit to store information forwarded by a potential client, wherein the job database includes buyer satisfaction data provided by said user. A bonding diagram generator is coupled to the processing unit to generate a layout of bonding diagram in accordance with the information provided by the user. A forwarding module is responsive to the bonding diagram generator to forward the layout of bonding diagram to the user.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for use in computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, computer-aided engineering and product lifecycle management. An efficient, non-centralized communications framework makes “synchronous” collaborative design possible. Users are resident at workstations that are connected in a peer-to-peer arrangement. In a collaborative design session, the model is resident in memory at each workstation. Modifications are made at any workstation, and commands, which are interpreted at each workstation to effect the modifications, are transmitted over the network. In addition, cell descriptors may be used to identify one or more geometric cells of a model. The cell descriptors are in the form of scripts specifying constraints or filters for identifying cells.

Abstract: A system and a method enable supply chain solutions for regulated industries. The embodiments facilitate regulatory and tax compliance management integrated with smart inventory and e-warehouse management solutions. The embodiments are applicable to heavily regulated industries such as, for example, beverages, food, oil, pharmachemicals, and chemicals.

Abstract: A system and method for organizing the computer network components, including hardware, software, peripherals and services (i.e. internet and online backup). This, in order to make the creation of a computer network environment more user friendly, highly organized and easy to follow. The present invention is specifically targeted at the small business owner, in order to enable them to efficiently establish their own network system. This system will enable them to run their businesses more productively, with greater ease and less down time. This is accomplished through the use of an effective kit or packaging system containing all the required network components.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel distributed factory system framework including a novel factory automation lifecycle (200) having lifecycle activities for SW developing and integrating (210), installing and administrating (220), factory modeling (230), manufacturing planning (240), manufacturing controlling, monitoring and tracking (250) and analyzing of manufacturing results (260). The factory lifecycle comprises framework components. The distributed factory system framework also includes application components and building blocks. The framework components are adapted to for managing the application components, while the application components are utilized to provide instructions for managing a process such as a wafer fab. The building blocks are adapted for forming or modifying framework and application components. The distributed factory system framework provides computer implemented methods for integrating processing systems and facilitates process and equipment changes.

Abstract: Controlling software components for cutting machines are distributed in nature, and can be placed on any convenient processor on a network. Each is provided with its own network address, or specific ports are assigned thereto at a shared (e.g., IP or network) address, and the functionality of each component is executed without reference to its physical location on the network. Virtual machine components handle the collection of data from cutting machines, while a machine monitor component collects data from the virtual machine components. User interface interpreting and serving components are also distributed and portable, and a controlling user interface may therefore be accessed, viewed, and take user input wherever such tasks are most convenient. The changeable user interface permits machines, jobs, materials, and cutting elements to be managed centrally, or from distributed locations in the facility or on the Internet at large.

Abstract: There are independently made data of a device pattern, an identification and scribe pattern including a scribe pattern surrounding the device pattern, identification patterns formed in a scribe region indicated by the scribe pattern and outer periphery of the scribe region, and an outer peripheral pattern formed outside the scribe region except the identification pattern. From the data, data for an exposure system or a mask inspection apparatus are produced. The outer peripheral pattern is divided into a plurality of patterns each is a unit of a exposure region.

Abstract: In a process control data base, intermediate characteristics, processing condition for controlling a characteristic and a final characteristic in a process of manufacturing products are stored as a set of data for each product lot. In Process 1, a set of data for each product lot are prepared. Next, in Process 2, cluster processing is conducted on each set of data obtained in Process 1. In Process 3, using the set of data obtained in Process 2, the intermediate characteristics and the processing condition for controlling a characteristic are inputted and the final characteristic is outputted, and a causal relation between the input and output is quantified by a neural network so as to make a learning model. In a model applying stage, the most appropriate processing condition for controlling a characteristic is retrieved by using the learning model and the intermediate characteristics in the previous steps.

Abstract: There is disclosed a control system of a manufacturing apparatus, which controls a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, comprising an interface which is connected to an exclusive-use circuit and which to transmits and receives information to and from the exclusive-use circuit, a processor which transmits at least one of recipe information and software for controlling the manufacturing apparatus to the manufacturing apparatus having an interface from the interface via the exclusive-use circuit, and a database which is connected to the processor and which stores at least one of the recipe information and software.

Abstract: A data processing system stores a first database of component data on components of an equipment. The data processing system stores a second database of maintenance personnel associated with corresponding qualifications. The data processing system associates at least one predictive maintenance factor (for a component) with the corresponding component data. A scheduler schedules maintenance for a maintenance time period for at least one of the components based on the first database, the second database, the associated predictive maintenance factor, and an elapsed time with respect to an installation date of at least one component. The predictive maintenance factor may be defined by one or more of the following: a longevity estimate, a probability of failure, a financial estimate on maintenance of a component.

Abstract: A system and method for recording and addressing out of control (OOC) events in a semiconductor processing line. The method includes steps of (a) opening OOC entries in an OOC database, and (b) working the OOC entries. Opening an OOC entry is performed in response to one or more OOC events in wafer lots being processed in the semiconductor processing line. A lot record addresses an isolated occurrence pertaining to one wafer lot. An issue record addresses a trend of repeated defects or failures. Opening an OOC entry in the OOC database preferably includes assigning and recording an “owner” responsible for addressing the OOC entry. Working the OOC entries includes opening activity records for the OOC entries, receiving user input on corrective measures, and recording the measures in the activity records. The method preferably also includes steps of (c) closing OOC entries after working the OOC entries, and (d) reassigning OOC entries if ownership is transferred for the entries.

Abstract: An industrial control system uses a number of autonomous control units, each associated with one piece of equipment in an industrial process. The autonomous control units negotiate by bidding among themselves to determine a common set of input and output values for the interconnected machines with which they are associated. Each autonomous control unit determines whether input values are acceptable by using a model of its associated equipment. The model provides anticipated output values which may be compared against a predetermined range of outputs of associated machines, outputs compatible with downstream machines, or the constraints of the overall industrial process according to a designated job to be accomplished. Optimization of the input and output values is provided by allowing preliminary bids to be the subject of optimizing counter-bids if the original bid value could have been accepted.

Abstract: A seal producing apparatus includes file storing and recalling procedures wherein calling of a file is permitted only when a seal loaded in the seal producing apparatus is a seal type having a shape and size suitable to contain the allowable number of lines and the allowable number of characters per line in the seal type associated with the file to be called and when the size of the seal type of the seal loaded in the seal producing apparatus is equal to or larger than the size of the seal type associated with the file to be called.

Abstract: A web-based data processing system is used in a Business-to-Business (B2B) exchange for providing one-stop manufacturing solutions. In a B2B exchange, this system provides a moderator desktop for project planning, quoting, coordination and supervisory of all web-based business transactions from mechanical/electronic design and production of first article, tooling, production, financing, insurance, warehousing to end-product delivery. Also, this system provides a machine web communication desktop for web-based maintenance and support to members, process lines, systems and machines, and web-based resource sharing to “pay as you go” members and “flat fee” members. Likewise, this system provides dedicated desktops for other participants in the B2B exchange for direct and critical communication, collaboration and commerce transaction with moderator and machine web communication center.

Abstract: A machine management system improves flexibility in control of an apparatus and installation of an additional apparatus. A plurality of refrigerators sends operational information to a virtual machine constructor. The virtual machine constructor constructs virtual machines corresponding to the refrigerators using the received information, and holds the virtual machines therein. Each time the virtual machine constructor receives new information from the refrigerators, it updates the virtual machines. Controllers receive and hold virtual machines from the virtual machine constructor. The controllers cause one of the virtual machines to be selected and displayed in response to a user's request.

Abstract: A predictive industrial control system for controlling individual cells of machines through multiple Programmable Logic Controllers in an investment casting processing and handling operation. An application server located in a remote, non-industrial environment executes an industrial control application (ICA) utilizing tagged reference names corresponding to individual machines and information input devices such as sensors on the production line. The ICA accesses local databases that hold casting shell part numbers and their associated recipe control words, and monitors the system for new shell part numbers as they appear on a load conveyor in the production line. Radio Frequency tags on the part signal the ICA to transfer the appropriate recipe control words and robot moves required to process the part in a primary processing cell's PLC. The PLC then controls each machine in the primary processing cell in accordance with the downloaded commands from the ICA.

Abstract: The present invention defines three types of data, namely production flow data 6, work condition data 8, and product work condition assignment data 10, creates manufacturing method information 1 using their data formats, and registers it so that these data can be combined to generate work record information 2.

Abstract: A number of computer-numerical-control (CNC) machine controllers are associated in the same plant or facility or in related facilities. Each CNC machine controller gathers and stores status information related to the state of operations being performed. A remotely located central computer separately addresses each of the controllers to transfer the status information to a central location where the entire plant or facility operation can be evaluated.

Abstract: A method for resetting a process recipe in a semiconductor factory automation (FA) system, includes the steps of: a) sending the process recipe and a lot identifier inputted from an operator to a process equipment, wherein the process recipe represents a set of semiconductor process conditions corresponding to a lot of semiconductor wafers and the lot identifier corresponds to the lot of semiconductor wafers; b) processing the lot of semiconductor wafers according to the process recipe; c) measuring the processed lot of semiconductor wafers to generate semiconductor measurement data; d) writing the semiconductor measurement data to a trace file, wherein the trace file includes the process recipe, the semiconductor measurement data and the lot identifier; e) retrieving the semiconductor measurement data contained in the trace file in response to a retrieval command inputted from the operator; and f) resetting the process recipe in response to a reset command inputted from the operator if the process recipe is

Abstract: With respect to a plurality of evaluation items for evaluating assemblability of an evaluation-target product, assemblability evaluation information as to the evaluation-target product is entered and an assemblability evaluation is performed based on the entered assemblability evaluation information. Simultaneously with the assemblability evaluation, a reverse-assemblability evaluation is performed based on reverse-assemblability evaluation information which is among the entered assemblability evaluation information and which is usable for evaluation items for performing the reverse-assemblability evaluation.

Abstract: A cross-section of one of the strips in a frame is digitized in binary format by means of a scanner and graphically visualized; dimensions of the cross-section and points suitable for positioning a strip locking device are determined, together with points of application of the stapling elements and the number of the elements to be applied in each point. A frame assembling machine is then activate to perform the actual stapling of the strips.

Abstract: A first principles, steady state model of a desired polymer process is applied with a non-linear optimizer to a linear controller. Model process gains and optimal target values for controller variables result. These results are utilized by a multivariable linear controller to achieve nonlinear control of the subject process. Preferably the nonlinear optimizer is DMO/SQP. The steady state model is produced by Polymers Plus and the linear controller is DMCplus, all of Aspen Technology, Inc. in Cambridge Mass.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for inputting design specifications to calculate output specifications and manufacturing machine code is disclosed. A user interface simplifies the data input by a user to calculate the necessary manufacturing specifications. The user interface is typically connected to a computer aided design (CAD) process. The CAD process in turn processes the design input specifications entered by the user.

Abstract: Production plant featuring automatic making and packing machines, each of which has a relevant control unit; a collection computer awaits receipt of information packages transmitted independently and asynchronously by the control units over a first communication network; and the collection computer organizes and processes the information packages received from the control units to generate overall data accessible over a second communication network, with respect to which the collection computer acts as a server.

Abstract: A method for arranging a control unit for controlling the assembly of mail pieces. The control unit is communicatively linked to a device for performing at least one operation for assembling mail pieces. The device transmits control code specific for the control of that device to the control unit. This control code is then installed on the control unit. Also described are a device and a combination of a device with program code, both specifically adapted for practicing the proposed method.

Abstract: A process flow preparation system including a condition receiving unit for receiving and storing at least one process condition, a recipe storing unit for storing recipe names and corresponding process conditions, a recipe searching unit for searching and retrieving from the recipe storing unit at least one recipe meeting the at least one process condition. Also included is a process sequence receiving unit for receiving and storing a process sequence of the at least one retrieved recipe, and a process flow output unit for outputting a process flow including the at least one retrieved recipe and the process sequence of the at least one retrieved recipe. Further, the recipe searching unit searches for one or more recipes meeting the at least one process condition from the recipe storing unit, determines whether or not the search has retrieved a single result, and prompts an operator to input at least one of a process condition name and a process condition value for specifying results of the search.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automation system in which a functionality of at least two components from a programmable logic controller which can be regulated as required and/or from a drive controller which regulates rotation speed and/or position, and/or from a motion controller which regulates complex operations is integrated. The integrated controller constructed in this way can additionally have a single processor equipped with every functionality, further specific interfaces incorporation of engineering system and runtime system (RS) into the integrated controller, a web server functionality, a project data configuration using a single control action and an integrated, extensive data management unit (DM).

Abstract: A runtime system of an industrial controller has a running level model which has a plurality of running levels of different types with different priority. This stratification allows for minimization of the communication between the process controller and motion controller tasks. The running level model has a hierarchical structure with various running levels such as synchronously clocked levels, a user level for system exceptions, an event-controlled user level, a time-controlled user level, a sequential user level and a cyclical user level. Other prioritizing stratifications also may be provided.

Abstract: An automatic system of manufacturing ball studs for vehicles which establishes various processes inline to diagnose each process and perform production and inventory control.

Abstract: A test system for testing a controller provides a way to use large numbers of miniature mobile robots to test a cooperative search controller in a test area, where each mobile robot has a sensor, a communication device, a processor, and a memory. A method of using a test system provides a way for testing a cooperative search controller using multiple robots sharing information and communicating over a communication network.

Abstract: An automation system with at least one automation object (A1 . . . An) having a first component (K1) for generating a system functionality, a second component (K2) for generating a base functionality, and a third component (K3) for managing at least one module (M1 . . . Mn). Each module has a first module component (MK1) for generating a system functionality, a second module component (MK2) for generating a base functionality and a third module component (MK3) for generating a technological functionality.

Abstract: A method for positioning bond pads in a semiconductor die comprises the steps of (I) setting parameters including (a) setting a baseline pad pitch to a first value, (b) setting a first pad position equal to a first pad value and (c) providing a focal point; (II) determining a first angle between a first line through a center of the first pad position and the focal point and a second line through a center of the semiconductor die and normal to the edge; (III) determining a first pad spacing increment value equal to the first value divided by a cosine of the first angle; (IV) setting a second pad position equal to a second pad value, wherein the second pad value at least equals the first pad value plus the first value if both of the first bond pad and the second bond pad are ground pad or power pad with the same potential, else the second pad value at least equals the first pad value plus the first pad spacing increment value; and (V) using the first and second pad values to respectively position a first bond p

Abstract: An information transmitting system for use in a factory, which is capable of transmitting information among controllers simply without the complicated lead-around of a communication line nor the need of complicated communication protocol. A controller every molding cell Ai, a conveyance controller C to control an automatic conveyance means D and a stock cell C and a centralized controller B are connected to each other via an Ethernet line (100) to provide a common information storage means (107), and information is transmitted among the controllers through the common information storage means (107). Since there is no need of parallel communication lines between the controllers, an I/O port or a communication line may be prevented from increasing in number and the lead-around of the communication line is prevented from being complicated, resulting in a reduction of cost required for setting up the devices.

Abstract: A system for quickly and easily optimizing the parameters of an industrial machine or solving any trouble in industrial machine is provided. A factory (100) and vendor (200) are connected through a data communication network (300). A management apparatus (120) selectively gives the operation right of an industrial machine (110) to a factory-side operation apparatus (130) or a vendor-side operation apparatus (210) arranged at a remote site. The operation apparatus having the given operation right can operate the industrial machine (110) and obtain information representing the operation condition of the industrial machine.

Abstract: The production control system of this invention includes a request system for setting executive functions to be executed for controlling apparatuses installed in manufacturing plants, and an agent system for instructing execution systems for controlling the apparatuses installed in the manufacturing plants to execute the executive functions. The agent system is connected with the request system or the execution systems through a computer network. Therefore, the request system controls the apparatuses installed in the manufacturing plants through the agent system.

Abstract: A blank oscillator 300′ is prepared for each office, and control data is written into this blank oscillator 300′, thereby manufacturing an oscillator 300. Upon receiving an order from a user terminal 10, a business center server 100 selects the most suitable office for the delivery of the oscillator and sends the data to the office. A data writing apparatus 200 installed in this office generates control data based on the data, and writes the control data into the blank oscillator 300′, thereby manufacturing the oscillator 300.

Abstract: A process and equipment for optimizing production includes identifying the breakdown that is actually responsible for a shutdown on a machine production line, and hence of introducing this specific criterion into the process for handling malfunctions, at the level of a man-machine interface. Thus, the true cause of a given breakdown is determined, and it becomes possible to act on this primary cause, and not just on the secondary breakdowns generated downstream; therefore productivity control is improved considerably.

Abstract: An integrated die cast system is provided comprising a die casting machine, a servo-controlled ladle, a servo-controlled sprayer, a pick and place robot, an integrated controller, and a programming pendant. The die casting machine includes a die casting machine controller. The servo-controlled ladle includes a molten material ladle and a servo-motor arranged to cause the ladle to transfer molten material to an injection chamber of the die casting machine. The servo-controlled sprayer includes a sprayer assembly and a servo-motor arranged to orient the sprayer assembly proximate a die cavity of the die casting machine. The pick and place robot is arranged to access a die cavity of the die casting machine. The integrated controller is in communication with the die-casting machine controller, the servo-controlled ladle, the servo-controlled sprayer, and the pick and place robot.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method therefor of sorting and unloading various pieces cut from sheet blanks which have different dimensions in a sheet metal fabricating environment. To achieve this end, prior to the production run, the various program routines whose operations for effecting the cutting of the sheet blanks are retrieved and the data relevant to the to be cut pieces are grouped and analyzed so that pieces of different dimensions cut in accordance with the different program routines are respectively allocated to the corresponding sorting addresses for unloading. Accordingly, different pieces with the same dimension cut from different program routines during the same production run are unloaded to the same location of the unloader area. Optimization of the unloading process and optimal utilization of the available loading space are thereby achieved.

Abstract: A CAD supporting apparatus supports an assembling of an assembly by a CAD for assembling an assembly constituted of a plurality of components, which creates a geometry of objects, in cooperation with the CAD.

Abstract: A method and system thereof for efficiently computing the number of dies per wafer and the corresponding number of stepper shot counts. Dimensions for a die and the size of the wafer are received. The dimensions comprise a die element size that is a function of a scribe lane width, a guard ring width, an input/output pad area, and a length and a width of the die. A die count lookup table is selected for the specified wafer size and used to determine the die count corresponding to the die element size. In a similar manner, a stepper shot count lookup table is selected for the specified wafer size and used to determine the stepper shot count corresponding to the die element size. The axes of the die count and stepper shot count lookup tables are incremented by varying amounts; for example, the increments in one portion of the lookup tables are smaller (finer), and in another portion the increments are larger (grosser).

Abstract: A product configuration can be managed on a product basis for each of component parts which include each of products from manufacturing to disposal of the products. A product manufacturer device 15, part manufacturer devices 16, 17, and a device 11 of a customer who possesses a product are interconnected through a communication line. The product manufacturer device includes configuration information on each of component parts which comprises a product on a product number basis, and a function of providing information and services on the product. The part manufacturer device in turn includes configuration information on each of lower parts which include each of the component parts on a manufacturing lot or product number basis for each type of component parts, and a function of providing information and services on each of the parts. When the product configuration is changed, the change in the configuration is reflected to the configuration information of the product and the component parts.

Abstract: A device for supporting development of a system, the device including a first device for registering standard operations of the system into a first library by classifying the standard operations from control and work points of view. The device also includes a second device for registering programs corresponding to a plurality of predetermined system executable functions into a second library by referring to the standard operations registered in the first library.