The Edwards Service Vehicle X (ESV-X) concept automated mobile robot (AMR) – a reimagining of the semiconductor environment that features groundbreaking ground-up lifting and self-loading capabilities – today won the Best of West Award at the Virtual SEMICON West 2020. Edwards Vacuum, maker of the AMR, is a leading developer and manufacturer of sophisticated vacuum products, abatement solutions and related value-added services. See the ESV-X in action in this video.
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Presented annually by SEMI and Semiconductor Digest, the Best of West award recognizes innovative new products or services that significantly advance the electronics manufacturing supply chain or a particular manufacturing capability. The ESV-X loads equipment without human intervention and autonomously delivers it to work locations within a semiconductor factory to minimize scheduled and unplanned downtime and the need for other transportation equipment while increasing customer safety. The ESV-X also frees technicians to focus on more strategic work.
Featuring state-of-the-art autonomous motion technology, the ESV-X uses mapping and localization to navigate semiconductor environments. Omni-directional movement and real-time rerouting allow the ESV-X to maneuver through dynamic and confined environments in ways never before possible with automated materials handlers. What’s more, onboard safety systems keep nearby chip manufacturing staff at a safe distance without interfering in their work.
“There’s a big emphasis on innovation at this year’s SEMICON West,” said Pete Singer, Editor-in-Chief of Semiconductor Digest. “The Edwards ESV-X is a great example of a supplier looking at new ways to improve factory efficiency and safety while saving time and money.”