Importance

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Abstract

A generic cell controlling method and apparatus for a computer integrated manufacturing system accepts manufacturing operation commands to perform a selected manufacturing operation on a selected manufacturing tool. The sequence of generic steps to be performed by the manufacturing tool is determined, in order to implement the selected manufacturing operation. Each step is used to generate operational instructions for the tool controller. The sequence of generic steps is preferably produced using a database which has an entry for each manufacturing operation. Each entry includes parameters which are specific for each tool, and an indication of sequence of steps to be performed. When a manufacturing operation command is received, the command is matched to a database entry and the parameters and sequences associated with that entry are used to call a series of routines or modules. Associated parameters are provided to each routine for generating the operational instructions for the particular tool. The routines or modules which are called by the database are independent of one another. Accordingly, a particular routine can be easily updated or a new routine can be easily added. New interfaces to new tools may be provided by generating one or more routines and providing new data in the existing database structure. A learning mechanism may be provided to allow the generic cell controller to be taught how to handle new instructions while in operation.

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First Claim