Abstract: A gripper head for attachment to the Z axis shaft of a robot or a pick and place machine to pick up objects and position them on a workpiece, comprises a body from which projects a pair of gripping jaws which are slidable horizontally relative to the body by first and second pneumatic piston and cylinder units, respectively. A hold down and tamper member is vertically movable between the jaws by a third piston and cylinder unit so as to hold down an object to be picked up while the jaws are being closed about it and to tamp the object down against the workpiece. A brake is provided for stopping the piston of one of the first and second piston and cylinder units in a desired position. The hold down and tamper member may be arranged also to act as a vacuum pick up device.

Abstract: An electrical socket includes a molded insulative base carrying rows of resilient electrical terminals. A leadless chip carrier initially is supported on the terminals, with the pads of the carrier engaging the terminals. A lid is placed over the carrier and is rotatably advanced to press against the carrier, causing the carrier to deflect resiliently the terminals, and to seat against the base. The lid clamps the carrier against the base and is adjustable to accommodate a carrier which varies in height within specified tolerances.