US20080309348A1 - Integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method - Google Patents
Integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method Download PDFInfo
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- US20080309348A1 US20080309348A1 US11/764,229 US76422907A US2008309348A1 US 20080309348 A1 US20080309348 A1 US 20080309348A1 US 76422907 A US76422907 A US 76422907A US 2008309348 A1 US2008309348 A1 US 2008309348A1
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- assembly
- adjustable
- frame
- set forth
- integrated circuit
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01R—MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES
- G01R1/00—Details of instruments or arrangements of the types included in groups G01R5/00 - G01R13/00 and G01R31/00
- G01R1/02—General constructional details
- G01R1/04—Housings; Supporting members; Arrangements of terminals
- G01R1/0408—Test fixtures or contact fields; Connectors or connecting adaptors; Test clips; Test sockets
- G01R1/0425—Test clips, e.g. for IC's
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to electronic equipment used to manipulate an integrated chip (IC) from one location or position to another. More particularly, the electronic equipment subject of this invention is used for securing an IC during manipulation and more particularly to using the same basic structure for a variety of different sized or out of tolerance IC's.
- IC integrated chip
- the IC In the process of testing and manufacturing integrated chips, the IC itself must be moved from one location to another without damaging or disturbing the delicate electronics on the chip. In order to move the IC from one place to another, the IC is placed on a holding device or clamping assembly and secured thereto and then moved for further manipulation, including manufacture and testing.
- such a device or assembly has a center defining a chip socket where the IC is placed for secure attachment to the device.
- the chip socket is fixed and the IC itself must be within certain tolerances to fit properly within the chip socket. If the IC does not fit properly within the chip socket, either the IC, itself, would be rejected and tossed away or the chip socket would need to be altered to fit the IC.
- the clamping assembly accepts even out of tolerance IC's without needing extensive modification or remaking of the chip socket. Additionally, a method of using such a device should be quick and efficient and again not require extension remodeling of the chip socket or the IC. Using such a device and method, even different sized IC's and outside normal tolerance IC's can be used, complete manufacturing process and be tested, transported without undue modification of either the IC or the chip socket.
- the assembly comprises:
- a clamping mechanism having means for securing an integrated chip to the assembly, the clamping mechanism being movably connected to the base, the clamp mechanism including a plurality of clamps which are independently movable with respect to the base to adapt to accommodate different sized integrated chips (IC's) and each clamp adapted to work cooperatively with the other clamps to secure an integrated chip (IC) to the assembly,
- IC integrated chip
- the clamp mechanism is adjustable for securing a variety of different sized integrated chips to clamp assembly.
- the assembly includes specific structure for adjustment of the clamping mechanism along the x, y and z axis.
- the adjustment of the clamping mechanism along each axis is independent of one another.
- the frame includes a strut member which cooperatively interacts with the clamping mechanism adjustment member to allow adjustment of the clamp along the z axis.
- the clamping mechanism includes a first and second pair of wing members which includes adjustment members for allows tightening and loosening of the wing members relative to the base.
- the base has compatibly sized and shaped slots to cooperatively interact with the adjustment members to afford adjustment of each clamp along the x-y axis.
- the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention includes an adapter for mechanized handler of the assembly.
- the adapter attaches to the frame and does not interfere or affect in any, the above functioning of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- the adapter includes at the point of contact between it and the mechanized handler a fitting.
- the fitting is sized and shaped for compatible engagement of the handler.
- the fitting includes a suspension system to ensure that the IC secured to the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention, is protected from damage as it is transported from station to station.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- FIGS. 2-4 are top plan views of the movement of an exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the clamp and adjustment mechanism of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the top of the base of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom of the base of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention including a handler assembly for mechanized handling of the clamp assembly.
- the clamp assembly 20 includes a clamping mechanism 26 , a frame 22 and a base 24 .
- the base 24 nests within the frame 22 as is particularly clear with respect to FIGS. 1 and 6 and 7 .
- the frame 22 has a central opening or cradle 11 .
- the clamping mechanism 26 is secured to the base 24 via base adjustment members 28 . As will be explained more fully hereinafter, these members 28 allow adjustment of the clamping mechanism 26 in the x-y directions as well as securing the clamping mechanism 26 to the base 24 . Additionally, the clamping mechanism 26 includes a frame adjustment mechanism 30 .
- the frame 22 has an upstanding member 32 , defining a strut having an opening 34 ( FIG. 5 ).
- the frame adjustment member 30 interacts with the strut 32 and allows z-axis adjustment of the clamping mechanism 26 as will be explained more fully with respect to FIG. 5 .
- the IC 10 is held in place by the clamping mechanism 26 .
- the combination of the base adjustment members 28 (x-y directions) and the frame adjustment members 30 (z direction) allow a variety of various sized and shaped IC's to be held by the adjustable clamp assembly 20 . Additionally, even out of tolerance IC's can be secured and tested using the apparatus of the invention, namely the adjustable clamp assembly 20 .
- the clamping mechanism 26 includes a clamp 36 , a spring member 38 and a screw member 40 .
- the clamp 36 has a central block 42 and a pair of wing members 44 on opposed sides of the central block 42 .
- the wing members 44 in combination form a distal end 45 , which is sized and shaped for compatible engagement with the IC 10 .
- the distal end forms an orthogonal end zone.
- the clamp 36 is secured to the base 24 by the base adjustment members 28 .
- Each of the wing members 44 has an opening 46 .
- the base 24 has compatible sized openings 48 .
- the base adjustment members 28 are threaded through the openings 46 and 48 .
- the base adjustment members 28 after being threaded through the openings 46 and 48 is secured by a locking member 50 which can be tightened or loosened to allow x-y adjustment.
- the openings 48 define longitudinal slots, which can be independently adjusted to ensure a proper fit of the clamp 36 and IC.
- Base adjustment member 28 includes an adjustment screw 50 and a locking member 52 .
- the adjustment screw 50 is threaded through the opening 46 in the wing member and base opening 48 and secured in place by the locking member 52 .
- each wing member 44 is independently adjustable. In this manner, the distal end zone 45 is adjusted to engage the IC 10 .
- the combination of the distal ends 45 of each of the clamping mechanisms 26 secure the IC 10 to the adjustable clamping mechanism 20 .
- the clamping mechanism 26 is adjusted in the x-y directions until it is secured in place as will be explained more fully hereinafter with respect to FIGS. 2-4 .
- the mechanism for adjustability in the z direction will now be explained with reference to the Figs., and more particularly to FIG. 5 .
- the screw member 40 is threaded through the strut opening 34 and then through the spring member 38 and into a compatible threaded opening 54 in the central block 36 .
- the spring normally urges the screw member 40 away from the cradle or central opening in the adjustable clamping assembly 20 .
- the screw member 40 has a knurled end 56 , which allows for easy adjustment of the clamping mechanism 26 in the z direction. Also, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5 , screw member 40 has a hex end zone 58 with a central opening 60 to allow adjustment via an allen wrench or similar tool.
- the IC 10 is placed in the cradle 11 and secured into place.
- a test board 151 having a plurality of electrical contacts is placed directly underneath the clamping mechanism 20 .
- pressure is applied to the IC using the device of the incorporated application or other device which can correctly and appropriately apply such pressure. This type of connection is called the direct connect method.
- a suspension system 153 is included between the test board 151 and the clamping member 20 .
- the suspension system 153 includes springs 155 connected through posts 157 which attach to both the test board 151 and the clamping member 20 holding the suspension system 153 in place.
- FIGS. 2-4 there is shown the operation of the adjustment clamping assembly 20 .
- the clamping mechanism 26 is shown with the wing members 44 completely retracted.
- the distal end zone 45 has an exterior side having an abutment flange 62 .
- the abutment flange 62 rests against base stop 64 preventing further movement away from the central opening or cradle 11 of the frame 22 .
- the clamping mechanisms 26 extend, at least part way into the cradle 11 .
- the screw members 38 have been turned using either the knurled end 56 or a tool against the hex end zone 58 to cause the wing members 44 to advance toward the center of the cradle 11 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates the wing members 44 fully advanced into the central opening of the cradle 11 .
- a second stop 66 prevents further advancement of the wing members 44 as illustrated.
- an IC 10 of various dimensions and even non-perfect shapes and sizes can be accommodated within the cradle 11 and made to fit securely. This method and assembly allows for greater flexibility and consequently higher yields when producing and testing ICs.
- the base 24 will now be described in detail with reference to the Figs. and specifically to FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- the top portion of the base 24 in combination ( FIG. 1 ) with the frame 22 defines a central opening known as the cradle 11 .
- the cradle 11 Positioned around the cradle are four clamping mechanisms 26 . Each mechanism 26 is adjusted in the x, y and z directions independently as described above.
- the base adjustment screw 50 is loosened and tightened as appropriate.
- the screw 50 has a hex end 70 which is designed for receiving a tool, such as an allen wrench and snugly securing the particular wing member 44 to the base 24 .
- a tool such as an allen wrench
- the hex end and a tool are used for loosening the screw and re-adjusting for another different sized IC.
- the base 24 includes a the bottom portion 72 .
- the clamping mechanism 26 includes a locking member 74 .
- the locking member 74 has a pair of bottom wings 76 and matches, generally, in size and shape the wing members 44 . Additionally, the bottom wings 76 have a bottom opening 78 , which matches and is aligned with, the wing member openings 46 .
- the screw member 50 is threaded through wing member opening 46 , base opening 48 and bottom wing member opening 78 .
- the locking member 52 comprises a nut or similar element and secures the screw member 50 during tightening and loosening.
- the wing members 44 and 76 sandwich the base 24 between themselves and insure a secure fit for the clamping mechanism against the base 24 .
- the secure fit also facilitates the secure fit of the IC 10 to the clamping assembly 20 when the IC 10 is inserted into the cradle 11 and the wing members 44 are properly adjusted and secured to the base with the IC 10 .
- the method of this invention includes being able to independently adjust the X, X and Z axis regardless of order. Since the X-Y adjustment is not dependent on the frame 22 , the complete X-Y or Z axis adjust can occur without the slightest concern for the Z axis adjust. Similarly, the Z axis adjustment occurs without the slightest concern for the X-Y axis adjustment.
- the adapter assembly 90 is designed to allow a handler mechanism to quietly, without causing injury or upsetting the secure adjustment of the IC within the cradle, move the entire clamping assembly 20 from one station to another. Clearly, it facilitates some testing to be able to mechanically move the IC 10 from one location to another to perform different tests. Very often these tests can not be performed properly while there is even the possibility of human contamination. Therefore, the adapter assembly 90 is provided to allow quiet transportation of the IC 10 while in the clamping assembly 20 .
- the assembly 90 includes a pair of adapters 92 on opposed sides of the clamping assembly 20 .
- Each adapter 92 is sized and shaped for compatible mating engagement with the frame 22 .
- a pair of pins 94 fit into compatible sized and shaped openings 96 .
- Adapter screws 98 are threaded through openings 96 and secured thereby to the frame 22 .
- the assembly 90 further includes in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8 a member 100 for direct engagement of the adapter assembly 90 with a mechanical device (not shown).
- the member 100 includes a fitting element 102 which as a pair of tabs 104 and openings in the tabs 104 for securing the member 100 to the assembly 90 .
- Screws 107 are threaded through the tab openings 105 and provide secure engagement of the member 100 to the assembly 90 .
- the member 100 fitting element 102 rides on a suspension system 103 and features spring-like members 106 between the fitting element and the member 100 and assembly 90 .
- the member 100 has a central opening 108 located and aligned with the suspension system 103 .
- a pin 110 from the mechanical handling device compatibly engages the fitting 102 through the central opening 108 and provides a secure fit therewith.
- Quiet handling of the IC 10 within the cradle 11 is ensured by the suspension system 13 .
- the fitting of the IC 10 within the adjustable clamping assembly 20 is maintained even during handling.
Abstract
Description
- Filed concurrently with this application is an application entitled Suspension System And Adjustment Mechanism For An Integrated Chip And Method having the same inventive entity. The entire specification of the Suspension System And Adjustment Mechanism For An Integrated Chip And Method is specifically incorporated herein.
- This invention generally relates to electronic equipment used to manipulate an integrated chip (IC) from one location or position to another. More particularly, the electronic equipment subject of this invention is used for securing an IC during manipulation and more particularly to using the same basic structure for a variety of different sized or out of tolerance IC's.
- In the process of testing and manufacturing integrated chips, the IC itself must be moved from one location to another without damaging or disturbing the delicate electronics on the chip. In order to move the IC from one place to another, the IC is placed on a holding device or clamping assembly and secured thereto and then moved for further manipulation, including manufacture and testing.
- Typically, such a device or assembly has a center defining a chip socket where the IC is placed for secure attachment to the device. Typically, the chip socket is fixed and the IC itself must be within certain tolerances to fit properly within the chip socket. If the IC does not fit properly within the chip socket, either the IC, itself, would be rejected and tossed away or the chip socket would need to be altered to fit the IC.
- Thus, even IC's that are only out of tolerance a small amount will not fit in the chip socket. However, these same IC's are potentially useful and functional except for the slight out of tolerance size limitations.
- Since neither above alternative is desirable, there exists a need to develop another alternative. In this alternative the clamping assembly accepts even out of tolerance IC's without needing extensive modification or remaking of the chip socket. Additionally, a method of using such a device should be quick and efficient and again not require extension remodeling of the chip socket or the IC. Using such a device and method, even different sized IC's and outside normal tolerance IC's can be used, complete manufacturing process and be tested, transported without undue modification of either the IC or the chip socket.
- Additionally, it would be desirable for such clamping mechanism to hold the IC securely while in transit, so that moving from one position to another would not damage the IC. And, finally it would be desirable to such device to be handled by a automated means.
- In accordance with the long felt need described above, the invention herein is described in detail below.
- It is an object of this invention to provide an adjustable clamp assembly, which allows for flexibility in accommodating different and out of tolerance IC's in the manufacturing and testing process.
- It is an additional object of this invention to provide such an assembly, which enables a mechanical handler to be used in transporting the IC from station to station.
- It is an additional object of this invention to provide such an assembly, which easily and efficiently accommodates different sized and even different shaped IC's.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention, the assembly comprises:
- a frame;
- a base nested within the frame; and
- a clamping mechanism having means for securing an integrated chip to the assembly, the clamping mechanism being movably connected to the base, the clamp mechanism including a plurality of clamps which are independently movable with respect to the base to adapt to accommodate different sized integrated chips (IC's) and each clamp adapted to work cooperatively with the other clamps to secure an integrated chip (IC) to the assembly,
- whereby, the clamp mechanism is adjustable for securing a variety of different sized integrated chips to clamp assembly.
- In another exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention, the assembly includes specific structure for adjustment of the clamping mechanism along the x, y and z axis. The adjustment of the clamping mechanism along each axis is independent of one another.
- In a more specific embodiment, the frame includes a strut member which cooperatively interacts with the clamping mechanism adjustment member to allow adjustment of the clamp along the z axis. In another exemplary embodiment, the clamping mechanism includes a first and second pair of wing members which includes adjustment members for allows tightening and loosening of the wing members relative to the base. The base has compatibly sized and shaped slots to cooperatively interact with the adjustment members to afford adjustment of each clamp along the x-y axis.
- In an additional embodiment, the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention includes an adapter for mechanized handler of the assembly. The adapter attaches to the frame and does not interfere or affect in any, the above functioning of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment of the adapter, the adapter includes at the point of contact between it and the mechanized handler a fitting. The fitting is sized and shaped for compatible engagement of the handler. Additionally, the fitting includes a suspension system to ensure that the IC secured to the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention, is protected from damage as it is transported from station to station.
- It is an advantage of this invention to provide an adjustable clamp assembly, which is adjustable and accommodates a variety of different sized and out of tolerance IC's.
- It is an additional advantage of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention to effectively increase the yield of IC's in the manufacturing and testing process.
- For a further understanding of the objects and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which like parts are given like reference numerals and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. -
FIGS. 2-4 are top plan views of the movement of an exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. -
FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the clamp and adjustment mechanism of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the top of the base of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom of the base of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention including a handler assembly for mechanized handling of the clamp assembly. - An exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures and in particular to
FIG. 1 , wherein there is shown the invention, an adjustable clamp assembly, generally indicated by thenumeral 20. Theclamp assembly 20 includes aclamping mechanism 26, aframe 22 and abase 24. - The
base 24 nests within theframe 22 as is particularly clear with respect toFIGS. 1 and 6 and 7. Theframe 22 has a central opening orcradle 11. Theclamping mechanism 26 is secured to thebase 24 viabase adjustment members 28. As will be explained more fully hereinafter, thesemembers 28 allow adjustment of theclamping mechanism 26 in the x-y directions as well as securing theclamping mechanism 26 to thebase 24. Additionally, theclamping mechanism 26 includes aframe adjustment mechanism 30. - The
frame 22 has anupstanding member 32, defining a strut having an opening 34 (FIG. 5 ). Theframe adjustment member 30 interacts with thestrut 32 and allows z-axis adjustment of theclamping mechanism 26 as will be explained more fully with respect toFIG. 5 . - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , theIC 10 is held in place by theclamping mechanism 26. Also, as illustrated inFIG. 1 , the combination of the base adjustment members 28 (x-y directions) and the frame adjustment members 30 (z direction) allow a variety of various sized and shaped IC's to be held by theadjustable clamp assembly 20. Additionally, even out of tolerance IC's can be secured and tested using the apparatus of the invention, namely theadjustable clamp assembly 20. - With respect to
FIG. 5 , there is shown an exploded view of theclamping mechanism 26. Theclamping mechanism 26 includes aclamp 36, aspring member 38 and ascrew member 40. Theclamp 36 has a central block 42 and a pair ofwing members 44 on opposed sides of the central block 42. Thewing members 44, in combination form a distal end 45, which is sized and shaped for compatible engagement with theIC 10. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the Figs., the distal end forms an orthogonal end zone. - As described above, with respect to
FIG. 1 , theclamp 36 is secured to thebase 24 by thebase adjustment members 28. Each of thewing members 44 has anopening 46. Additionally, thebase 24 has compatiblesized openings 48. Thebase adjustment members 28 are threaded through theopenings FIGS. 5 and 7 , thebase adjustment members 28 after being threaded through theopenings - The
openings 48 define longitudinal slots, which can be independently adjusted to ensure a proper fit of theclamp 36 and IC.Base adjustment member 28 includes an adjustment screw 50 and a lockingmember 52. The adjustment screw 50 is threaded through theopening 46 in the wing member andbase opening 48 and secured in place by the lockingmember 52. Thus, eachwing member 44 is independently adjustable. In this manner, the distal end zone 45 is adjusted to engage theIC 10. The combination of the distal ends 45 of each of the clampingmechanisms 26 secure theIC 10 to theadjustable clamping mechanism 20. - Thus, using the longitudinal slots, the
clamping mechanism 26 is adjusted in the x-y directions until it is secured in place as will be explained more fully hereinafter with respect toFIGS. 2-4 . The mechanism for adjustability in the z direction will now be explained with reference to the Figs., and more particularly toFIG. 5 . - The
screw member 40 is threaded through thestrut opening 34 and then through thespring member 38 and into a compatible threaded opening 54 in thecentral block 36. The spring normally urges thescrew member 40 away from the cradle or central opening in theadjustable clamping assembly 20. Thescrew member 40 has aknurled end 56, which allows for easy adjustment of theclamping mechanism 26 in the z direction. Also, in the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 5 ,screw member 40 has a hex end zone 58 with a central opening 60 to allow adjustment via an allen wrench or similar tool. - In use, the
IC 10 is placed in thecradle 11 and secured into place. Atest board 151 having a plurality of electrical contacts is placed directly underneath theclamping mechanism 20. As will be more fully appreciated with specific reference to the incorporated inventor's jointly filed and related application, pressure is applied to the IC using the device of the incorporated application or other device which can correctly and appropriately apply such pressure. This type of connection is called the direct connect method. - In an exemplary embodiment of the device and method herein, a
suspension system 153 is included between thetest board 151 and the clampingmember 20. Thesuspension system 153 includessprings 155 connected through posts 157 which attach to both thetest board 151 and the clampingmember 20 holding thesuspension system 153 in place. - With particular reference to
FIGS. 2-4 , there is shown the operation of theadjustment clamping assembly 20. InFIG. 2 , theclamping mechanism 26 is shown with thewing members 44 completely retracted. The distal end zone 45 has an exterior side having anabutment flange 62. In the completely open position illustrated inFIG. 2 , theabutment flange 62 rests againstbase stop 64 preventing further movement away from the central opening orcradle 11 of theframe 22. - In
FIG. 3 , the clampingmechanisms 26 extend, at least part way into thecradle 11. Thescrew members 38 have been turned using either theknurled end 56 or a tool against the hex end zone 58 to cause thewing members 44 to advance toward the center of thecradle 11. -
FIG. 4 illustrates thewing members 44 fully advanced into the central opening of thecradle 11. Asecond stop 66 prevents further advancement of thewing members 44 as illustrated. - As can be readily seen from the above series of Figs., an
IC 10 of various dimensions and even non-perfect shapes and sizes can be accommodated within thecradle 11 and made to fit securely. This method and assembly allows for greater flexibility and consequently higher yields when producing and testing ICs. - The base 24 will now be described in detail with reference to the Figs. and specifically to
FIGS. 6 and 7 . As illustrated, the top portion of thebase 24, in combination (FIG. 1 ) with theframe 22 defines a central opening known as thecradle 11. Positioned around the cradle are four clampingmechanisms 26. Eachmechanism 26 is adjusted in the x, y and z directions independently as described above. - In order to accomplish x-y adjustment, the base adjustment screw 50 is loosened and tightened as appropriate. To facilitate the same, the screw 50 has a hex end 70 which is designed for receiving a tool, such as an allen wrench and snugly securing the
particular wing member 44 to thebase 24. Similarly, the hex end and a tool are used for loosening the screw and re-adjusting for another different sized IC. - As shown particularly in
FIG. 7 , thebase 24 includes a thebottom portion 72. As can be clearly seen, theclamping mechanism 26 includes a locking member 74. The locking member 74 has a pair ofbottom wings 76 and matches, generally, in size and shape thewing members 44. Additionally, thebottom wings 76 have abottom opening 78, which matches and is aligned with, thewing member openings 46. As illustrated, the screw member 50 is threaded throughwing member opening 46,base opening 48 and bottomwing member opening 78. Also as illustrated, the lockingmember 52 comprises a nut or similar element and secures the screw member 50 during tightening and loosening. - As can be readily seen from
FIGS. 6 and 7 , thewing members base 24. At the same time, the secure fit also facilitates the secure fit of theIC 10 to the clampingassembly 20 when theIC 10 is inserted into thecradle 11 and thewing members 44 are properly adjusted and secured to the base with theIC 10. - It will be appreciate that the method of this invention includes being able to independently adjust the X, X and Z axis regardless of order. Since the X-Y adjustment is not dependent on the
frame 22, the complete X-Y or Z axis adjust can occur without the slightest concern for the Z axis adjust. Similarly, the Z axis adjustment occurs without the slightest concern for the X-Y axis adjustment. - With particular reference to
FIG. 8 , the adapter assembly, generally shown by the numeral 90, will be described. Theadapter assembly 90 is designed to allow a handler mechanism to quietly, without causing injury or upsetting the secure adjustment of the IC within the cradle, move theentire clamping assembly 20 from one station to another. Clearly, it facilitates some testing to be able to mechanically move theIC 10 from one location to another to perform different tests. Very often these tests can not be performed properly while there is even the possibility of human contamination. Therefore, theadapter assembly 90 is provided to allow quiet transportation of theIC 10 while in the clampingassembly 20. - The
assembly 90 includes a pair ofadapters 92 on opposed sides of the clampingassembly 20. Eachadapter 92 is sized and shaped for compatible mating engagement with theframe 22. A pair ofpins 94 fit into compatible sized and shapedopenings 96. Adapter screws 98 are threaded throughopenings 96 and secured thereby to theframe 22. - The
assembly 90 further includes in the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 8 amember 100 for direct engagement of theadapter assembly 90 with a mechanical device (not shown). Themember 100 includes afitting element 102 which as a pair oftabs 104 and openings in thetabs 104 for securing themember 100 to theassembly 90.Screws 107 are threaded through thetab openings 105 and provide secure engagement of themember 100 to theassembly 90. - The
member 100fitting element 102 rides on a suspension system 103 and features spring-like members 106 between the fitting element and themember 100 andassembly 90. Themember 100 has acentral opening 108 located and aligned with the suspension system 103. Apin 110 from the mechanical handling device (not shown) compatibly engages the fitting 102 through thecentral opening 108 and provides a secure fit therewith. Quiet handling of theIC 10 within thecradle 11 is ensured by the suspension system 13. Thus, the fitting of theIC 10 within theadjustable clamping assembly 20 is maintained even during handling. - While the foregoing detailed description has described several embodiments of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention, it is to be understood that the above description is illustrative only and not limiting of the disclosed invention. Particularly, there can be a variety of differently structured clamping mechanism which function to hold a variety of different sized or even allow for the adjustment of out of tolerance IC's. It will be appreciated the foregoing are but exemplary embodiments and that there are numerous embodiments that are not mentioned but within the scope and spirit of this invention. Thus, the invention is to be limited only by the claims as set forth below.
Claims (10)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/764,229 US7470140B1 (en) | 2007-06-18 | 2007-06-18 | Integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method |
US14/738,117 US9744312B2 (en) | 2001-06-12 | 2015-06-12 | Methods and apparatus for lancet actuation |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/764,229 US7470140B1 (en) | 2007-06-18 | 2007-06-18 | Integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method |
Related Parent Applications (1)
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US11/687,028 Division US8414503B2 (en) | 2001-06-12 | 2007-03-16 | Methods and apparatus for lancet actuation |
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US12/143,373 Continuation US7862520B2 (en) | 2001-06-12 | 2008-06-20 | Body fluid sampling module with a continuous compression tissue interface surface |
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US20080309348A1 true US20080309348A1 (en) | 2008-12-18 |
US7470140B1 US7470140B1 (en) | 2008-12-30 |
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US11/764,229 Expired - Fee Related US7470140B1 (en) | 2001-06-12 | 2007-06-18 | Integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method |
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CN112763652A (en) * | 2020-12-08 | 2021-05-07 | 中国电子产品可靠性与环境试验研究所((工业和信息化部电子第五研究所)(中国赛宝实验室)) | Automatic positioning puncture clamp, internal atmosphere content analyzer and testing method thereof |
CN117153766A (en) * | 2023-10-31 | 2023-12-01 | 宁波尚进自动化科技有限公司 | Chip clamp |
TWI832511B (en) * | 2021-10-27 | 2024-02-11 | 韓商泰克元股份有限公司 | Holder for handler of electronic component |
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US3587385A (en) * | 1967-11-09 | 1971-06-28 | Voitk Getriehe Kg | Cutter head |
US3609838A (en) * | 1967-09-15 | 1971-10-05 | Horst Wiest | Machine tool |
US4209088A (en) * | 1977-05-27 | 1980-06-24 | Siarto Machine & Tool Co., Inc. | Machine tool |
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US3609838A (en) * | 1967-09-15 | 1971-10-05 | Horst Wiest | Machine tool |
US3587385A (en) * | 1967-11-09 | 1971-06-28 | Voitk Getriehe Kg | Cutter head |
US4209088A (en) * | 1977-05-27 | 1980-06-24 | Siarto Machine & Tool Co., Inc. | Machine tool |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN102914767A (en) * | 2012-10-23 | 2013-02-06 | 南京国睿安泰信科技股份有限公司 | Clamp used for testing radar TR (transmitter-receiver) component |
WO2016182289A1 (en) * | 2015-05-08 | 2016-11-17 | (주)제이티 | Test socket adapter |
CN105388328A (en) * | 2015-11-03 | 2016-03-09 | 江西省天翌光电有限公司 | PCBA adaptive flexible fixture |
CN106356314A (en) * | 2016-11-16 | 2017-01-25 | 长电科技(滁州)有限公司 | SOT26 test clamp with adjustable test groove and operation method thereof |
CN110007212A (en) * | 2017-12-28 | 2019-07-12 | 精工爱普生株式会社 | Electronic component handling apparatus and electronic component inspection device |
CN112763651A (en) * | 2020-12-08 | 2021-05-07 | 中国电子产品可靠性与环境试验研究所((工业和信息化部电子第五研究所)(中国赛宝实验室)) | Positioning puncture clamp, internal atmosphere content analyzer and testing method thereof |
CN112763652A (en) * | 2020-12-08 | 2021-05-07 | 中国电子产品可靠性与环境试验研究所((工业和信息化部电子第五研究所)(中国赛宝实验室)) | Automatic positioning puncture clamp, internal atmosphere content analyzer and testing method thereof |
TWI832511B (en) * | 2021-10-27 | 2024-02-11 | 韓商泰克元股份有限公司 | Holder for handler of electronic component |
CN117153766A (en) * | 2023-10-31 | 2023-12-01 | 宁波尚进自动化科技有限公司 | Chip clamp |
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US7470140B1 (en) | 2008-12-30 |
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