APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING A CONTAINER

摘要

An apparatus and method transporting a container (10) is provided. In one of many specific applications of the present invention, the apparatus and method provide, on a pod (10) used in semiconductor integrated circuit manufacturing processes, a pod transporter (42). A pod transporter (42) includes a platform (32) formed with a flange (44) and a compartment (34) formed with a nesting surface (54). A column (58) is monolithically formed on the nesting surface (54), and is further formed with a cavity (62). The cavity (62) is engageable by an automated machine. A handle (56) is pivotally engageable with the column (58) and recessable into the compartment (34). A variety of connectors (40) are provided as means for securing the pod transporter (42) to the pod (10).