U.S. patent application number 11/764229 was filed with the patent office on 2008-12-18 for integrated chip clamp adjustment assembly and method.
Invention is credited to David Eldridge.
Application Number | 20080309348 11/764229 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40131687 |
Filed Date | 2008-12-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080309348 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Eldridge; David |
December 18, 2008 |
INTEGRATED CHIP CLAMP ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY AND METHOD
Abstract
Disclosed herein is an apparatus that relates to a device useful
in integrated chip (IC) testing apparatus. More particularly, the
device is an adjustable clamp assembly which allows a variety of
different sized IC's to be used with a single piece of test
equipment. The clamp assembly includes a frame, a base and a
plurality of clamps. Each clamp is movably connected to the base to
allow movement in the x-y directions and each of the clamps
includes an z-direction adjustment mechanism. Additionally, the
device according to this invention also includes an adapter having
opposed adapters which are designed for compatible mating with a
mechanized handlers. In an exemplary embodiment, the adapter has a
suspension system designed for quiet mechanized handling of the IC
while being held by the clamp assembly.
Inventors: |
Eldridge; David; (Salinas,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CENTRAL COAST PATENT AGENCY, INC
3 HANGAR WAY SUITE D
WATSONVILLE
CA
95076
US
|
Family ID: |
40131687 |
Appl. No.: |
11/764229 |
Filed: |
June 18, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
324/537 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01R 1/0425
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
324/537 |
International
Class: |
G01R 1/04 20060101
G01R001/04 |
Claims
1. An adjustable assembly for holding an integrated circuit chip
during transport and test, comprising: a frame comprising four
sides and four corners; a support surface within the frame for
supporting one square or rectangular integrated circuit chip during
transport or test; and a four horizontally adjustable mechanisms,
one implemented at each corner of the frame, each mechanism having
two vertical surfaces forming a square inside corner such that the
four mechanisms form a square or rectangular enclosure for
positioning and holding an integrated circuit chip on the support
surface; wherein each adjustable mechanism is constrained to be
adjustable on the frame along a diagonal of the square or rectangle
formed by the four mechanisms to accommodate integrated chips
having differing lengths and widths.
2. (canceled)
3. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 1, wherein each
mechanism comprises a locking device for securely locking the
mechanism at a specific position relative to the frame, after the
four mechanisms are adjusted to accommodate an integrated circuit
chip of a certain size.
4. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 3, wherein the
frame has a strut at each corner having a threaded opening with an
axis directed along the diagonal of the square or rectangle, and
adjustment for each mechanism is by a threaded element engaged in
the threaded opening.
5. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 3, wherein each
horizontally-adjustable mechanism farther comprises a compression
spring urging the mechanism toward an integrated circuit chip on
the support surface.
6-8. (canceled)
9. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
assembly further comprises a handler adapter assembly including two
opposed adapters on either side of the clamp assembly.
10. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 9, wherein the
handler adapter includes means for securing it to the clamp
assembly and wherein the handler adapter includes a handler port
for connection to the mechanized means.
11. The adjustable assembly as set forth in claim 10, wherein the
handler adapter includes a suspension system in the handler port
for quiet mechanized handling of the assembly.
12. The adjustable assembly of claim 1 further comprising openings
in the support surface in a pattern to accommodate entry from below
of test pins for establishing contact with contact surfaces on an
integrated circuit chip on the support surface and constrained by
the adjustable assembly.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] 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.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 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.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 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.
[0004] 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.
[0005] 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.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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.
[0008] In accordance with the long felt need described above, the
invention herein is described in detail below.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] 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.
[0010] 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.
[0011] 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.
[0012] In an exemplary embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly
in accordance with this invention, the assembly comprises:
[0013] a frame;
[0014] a base nested within the frame; and
[0015] 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,
[0016] whereby, the clamp mechanism is adjustable for securing a
variety of different sized integrated chips to clamp assembly.
[0017] 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.
[0018] 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.
[0019] 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0022] 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:
[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the adjustable clamp
assembly in accordance with this invention.
[0024] FIGS. 2-4 are top plan views of the movement of an exemplary
embodiment of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this
invention.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the clamp and
adjustment mechanism of the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance
with this invention.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the top of the base of the
adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this invention.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the bottom of the base of
the adjustable clamp assembly in accordance with this
invention.
[0028] 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.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] 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 the numeral 20. The clamp assembly
20 includes a clamping mechanism 26, a frame 22 and a base 24.
[0030] 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.
[0031] 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.
[0032] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the IC 10 is held in place by the
clamping mechanism 26. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 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 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.
[0033] With respect to FIG. 5, there is shown an exploded view of
the clamping mechanism 26. 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. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the
Figs., the distal end forms an orthogonal end zone.
[0034] As described above, with respect to FIG. 1, 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. Additionally, the base 24
has compatible sized openings 48. The base adjustment members 28
are threaded through the openings 46 and 48. As shown particularly
clearly in FIGS. 5 and 7, 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.
[0035] 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. Thus, 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.
[0036] 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 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.
[0037] 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.
[0038] In use, 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.
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.
[0039] In an exemplary embodiment of the device and method herein,
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.
[0040] With particular reference to FIGS. 2-4, there is shown the
operation of the adjustment clamping assembly 20. In FIG. 2, 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. In the completely open position illustrated in
FIG. 2, the abutment flange 62 rests against base stop 64
preventing further movement away from the central opening or cradle
11 of the frame 22.
[0041] In FIG. 3, 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.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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 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.
[0044] 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 the base 24, in combination (FIG. 1) with the frame
22 defines a central opening known as 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.
[0045] 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 the base 24. Similarly, the hex end
and a tool are used for loosening the screw and re-adjusting for
another different sized IC.
[0046] As shown particularly in FIG. 7, the base 24 includes a the
bottom portion 72. As can be clearly seen, 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. As illustrated, the screw member 50 is threaded
through wing member opening 46, base opening 48 and bottom wing
member opening 78. Also as illustrated, the locking member 52
comprises a nut or similar element and secures the screw member 50
during tightening and loosening.
[0047] As can be readily seen from FIGS. 6 and 7, 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. At the
same time, 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.
[0048] 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.
[0049] With particular reference to FIG. 8, the adapter assembly,
generally shown by the numeral 90, will be described. 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.
[0050] 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.
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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 (not shown)
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. Thus,
the fitting of the IC 10 within the adjustable clamping assembly 20
is maintained even during handling.
[0053] 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.
* * * * *