Asyst Technologies, specializing in Agile (News - Alert) Automation, announced the commercial availability of VAO (Visualize Analyze Optimize) Productivity Solution. VAO enables the acquisition of data from a range of factory systems like Automated Material Handling Systems and process and metrology tools. It also provides control to these systems and makes available resulting information in real-time.

 

The VAO enables large semiconductor manufacturers to observe the functioning of large factories. It offers real-time views of transport status, tool status and data analysis which help focus fast on important items. The Optimization Module can be enabled to apply control functions to critical areas of the fab and its operations.

 

The VAO architecture along with its agent-based system offers distributed and scalable methods to link Asyst (News - Alert) solutions and other applications. The applications include customer applications like MES, Alarm Management and Maintenance Tracking. The web based architecture of VAO enables remote viewing and the linking of multiple fabs which greatly supports the present global business requirements.

 

The VAO system has been installed in the production unit at Toshiba (News - Alert) Corporation. It links data from factory control systems and transport control systems. It displays tool status and vehicle movement in real time and this ability is unique in the industry.

 

Jim Holliday, vice president and general manager of Asyst Software Solutions, said, “VAO offers customers a way to combine data from multiple systems without duplicating large databases, providing a unified view with the ability to analyze that data and identify opportunities for productivity improvement.”

 

“We are delighted with the success of our initial installations at Toshiba and look forward to releasing the follow-on VAO modules in the coming months,” added Holliday.

California based Asyst Technologies, Inc. provides integrated automation solutions which help semiconductor and flat panel display (FPD) manufacturers to increase their manufacturing productivity. It also protects their investments during the manufacturing process.

Asyst’s modular and interoperability solutions include isolation systems, work-in-process materials management, substrate-handling robotics, automated transport and loading systems, and connectivity automation software.

 

The solutions allow chip and FPD manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers to select and use hands-off manufacturing capabilities which would suit them best besides add value to their efforts.