Abstract
In recent semiconductor and FPD (Flat Panel Display) manufacturing processes, high clean-class delivery operation is required more and more for short working time and better product quality. Traditionally SLIM (Single-sided Linear Induction Motor) is widely used in the liner drive applications because of its simplicity in the rail structure. A magnetically levitated (Maglev) unmanned vehicle with SLIM traction, which is powered by a CPS (Contactless Power Supply) can be a high precision delivery solution for this industry. In this paper unmanned FPD-carrying vehicle, which can levitate without contacting the rail structure, is suggested for high clean-class FPD delivery applications. It can be more acceptable for the complex facilities composed with many processes which require longer rails, because of simple rail structure. The test setup consists of a test vehicle and a rounded rail, in which the vehicle can load and unload products at arbitrary position commanded through wireless communications of host computer. The experimental results show that the suggested vehicle and rail have reasonable traction servo and robust electromagnetic suspensions without any contact. The resolution of point servo errors in the SLIM traction system is accomplished under 1mm. The maximum gap error is ${\pm}0.25mm$ with nominal air gap length of 4.0mm in the electromagnetic suspensions. This type of automated delivery vehicle is expected to have significant role in the clean delivery like FPD glass delivery.
