NextMove™ Integrates Computer Vision
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Introduction
In a typical fab without an Automated Material Handling System (AMHS), Work in Process (WIP) transportation accounts for a significant amount of the time spent by direct labor. Much of this time can wasted, e.g. looking for missing lots, or moving lots when they do not need to be moved. FPS NextMove uses data from systems like the FPS Factory Scheduler to provide instructions to operators and material handlers on the factory floor. With accurate inventory location tracking capabilities and real-time decision making, NextMove ensures timely and correct WIP deliveries to the next destination in the process.
Standard Barcode Method for Location Tracking
The most common method of providing location tracking information to NextMove is to scan a lot using a barcode reader, and then barcode scan the lot's destination, such as a rack or cart location (Figure 1). This sequence associates the lot to its intended physical location. This is a manual operation that relies on the operator to perform the scanning operations and to correctly place the lot box in the proper location.
Figure 1: NextMove rack screen showing current inventory, the exact placement of each lot in the rack, and when the lots need to be moved to their next locations.
Computer Vision Method for Location Tracking
NextMove Vision Tracking System (VTS) is INFICON's computer vision system for automating lot location tracking within the NextMove application. This system simplifies the standard barcode location tracking process by instead using an integrated camera system that is placed facing the WIP racks. The VTS application reads the SmartMarker™ tag on the lot carrier and associates the tag to a specific space on the rack (Figure 2). This enables operators to simply drop the lot off at a location, and have the location information automatically updated in the system.
Figure 2: Camera view of a rack location with the corresponding NextMove rack view.
Summary and Future Features
The capabilities of NextMove VTS that enable operators to deliver material and have the location automatically updated can also support equipment setup. Our team is working on a methodology that enables an operator to place a lot on a process tool and then move to their next task while lot track-in and loading on the tool is automated. This capability will save equipment loading time, and also provide extra validation for lot processing and setup at the equipment. For those who have access to our help site and wish to learn more about our NextMove VTS and other future NextMove enhancements, please visit our NextMove release notes and help site page.