Alignment Patents (Class 33/645)
  • Patent number: 6860028
    Abstract: An alignment device includes a crossbar and two brackets. Each one of the two brackets includes at least one guide hole, with each guide hole having a front opening. The crossbar couples the two brackets and defines a connector opening. The alignment device also includes two connector alignment posts. Each one of the two connector alignment posts has a first end coupled to the crossbar and an opposing end protruding into the connector opening. A method of connecting a circuit card to a mid plane and a computer including the alignment device also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn P. Charest, William L. Grouell, John A. Harada
  • Patent number: 6860027
    Abstract: The device (1) picks up and aligns a sawframe (30) for handling and aligning silicon wafers (31). The device (1) includes at least one resiliently moveable locating arm (11) which is adapted to engage co-operably with a notch (35, 36) on the periphery of the sawframe (30) when the device (1) is moved into contact therewith. The sawframe (30) is thus urged into alignment with the device (1), and may be held in position relative to the device (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Wentworth Laboratories Limited
    Inventors: John Joseph Fitzpatrick, John Bysouth
  • Patent number: 6860029
    Abstract: An alignment tool for adjustably positioning a boring bar relative to a spaced apart fixed location on a structural member including an elongated bar formed of a plurality of axially aligned and separable tubular members and having its opposite ends mounted to the boring bar and the fixed location, respectively. The length of the bar, hence the distance between the boring bar and the fixed location is adjustably selectable by means of telescopically mounted one of the tubular members. A first one of the tubular members receives therein a second one of the tubular members employing a thread interconnection whereby rotational movement of one tubular member relative to the other provides selection of the overall length of the tool. Multiple indicia associated with the outer circumference of each of the threadably interconnected tubular members provide a visual indication of the extent of the insertion of said second tubular member within said first tubular member, hence the overall length of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: George C. Haynes
  • Patent number: 6854196
    Abstract: An adjustable spacer tool for spacing balusters includes an extendable pantograpic assembly having a first and second end and including evenly-spaced parallel uprights and X-shaped sets of cross-bars pivotally connected to one another. Each X-shaped set is pivotally connected to a pair of uprights adjacent upper ends thereof and pivotally and slidably connected to the uprights adjacent lower ends thereof. An arm, finger and cam extend outwardly from each end of the assembly to provide spacing between each end of the assembly and a desired surface for various sets of same-width balusters. Each arm is pivotally connected to one end of the assembly and to one end of the finger. The other end of the finger is pivotally and slidably connected to a respective end of the assembly. Each cam is pivotally connected to the arm distal the assembly. Removable connections permit adjustment of the overall length of the tool and replacement of parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: L. J. Smith, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry D. Burrell, Daniel L. Moore
  • Patent number: 6842995
    Abstract: A method for aligning a component including at least a first and a second datum for inspection. The method includes providing a tool including a fixture having at least a first and a second datum locator, aligning the first datum with the first datum locator, and rotating the component about the first datum to align the second datum with the second datum locator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Daniel Edward Jones, Jacques Juneau
  • Patent number: 6839979
    Abstract: A turbine casing alignment tool includes a first section securable to an outer shell of a turbine casing. A second section of the alignment tool is securable to an inner shell of the turbine casing. The alignment tool facilitates adjustment of at least one of the inner shell and the outer shell relative to the other in multiple degrees of freedom to control both co-linearity and concentricity of the outer shell and the inner shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Vinayak Shashikant Godbole, David Leach, Stuart Forrest Waldo
  • Patent number: 6839975
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an accuracy measuring apparatus which is capable of efficiently measuring the accuracies of a machine tool at low costs. The accuracy measuring apparatus (1) comprises a laser oscillator (2) attached to a spindle (15) of the machine tool (10) for projecting a light beam having an axis aligning with the axis of the spindle, a CCD camera (3) disposed in opposed relation to the laser oscillator (2) for receiving the light beam projected from the laser oscillator (2) and generating two-dimensional image data, and an analyzer (4) for analyzing the image data to determine the accuracies of the machine tool (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignees: Mori Seiki Co., LTD, Intelligent Manufacturing Systems International
    Inventor: Makoto Fujishima
  • Publication number: 20040261281
    Abstract: An alignment device eases installation of computer assemblies, such as drives, into a corresponding chassis. The alignment device includes one or more planar areas located and oriented so as to be substantially alignable with one or more computer assemblies to be mounted to the chassis. The computer assembly has a user-visible surface which is moved until it is co-planar with a corresponding planar area of the alignment device. When positioned in this co-planar configuration, the computer assembly is correctly positioned relative to the chassis to be mounted thereto. The alignment device can be located on the computer chassis between mounting locations for two computer assemblies, such as a 5¼-inch drive and a 3½-inch drive and, in such application, can be provided with two planar areas at two different heights, one corresponding to the alignment position for one of the computer assemblies, the other corresponding to the alignment position for the other of the computer assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Vernon D. Erickson, David R. Davis, Kevin Alan Patin
  • Publication number: 20040261282
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an alignment mark for use in a wafer alignment and a method for fabricating the same. The alignment mark for use in the wafer alignment includes: a first mark formed on a semiconductor layer; a second mark formed adjacent to the first mark on the semiconductor layer; and a concave part formed between the first mark and the second mark by etching a partial portion of the semiconductor layer, wherein the alignment mark is used to align a wafer by detecting a zeroth order diffract light reflected from a sloped surface formed because of a difference in height between the concave part and the first or second mark.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Sang-Man Bae, Hyeong-Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20040255481
    Abstract: An alignment tool for adjustably positioning a boring bar relative to a spaced apart fixed location on a structural member including an elongated bar formed of a plurality of axially aligned and separable tubular members and having its opposite ends mounted to the boring bar and the fixed location, respectively. The length of the bar, hence the distance between the boring bar and the fixed location is adjustably selectable by means of telescopically mounted one of the tubular members. A first one of the tubular members receives therein a second one of the tubular members employing a thread interconnection whereby rotational movement of one tubular member relative to the other provides selection of the overall length of the tool. Multiple indicia associated with the outer circumference of each of the threadably interconnected tubular members provide a visual indication of the extent of the insertion of said second tubular member within said first tubular member, hence the overall length of the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: George C. Haynes
  • Publication number: 20040237324
    Abstract: A fixture locator comprising a fixture base comprising a first receptive chamber extending along a base centerline comprising a first receptive surface; and two base wedge slots extending into the fixture base and intersecting the first receptive surface; a machine tool mount, comprising a first mating member extending along a mount centerline comprising an outer surface adapted to fit within the first receptive chamber such that the mount centerline is congruent with the base centerline, and two mount wedge slots extending into the machine tool mount a dual wedge which comprises a first wedge prong and a second wedge prong each comprising a first and a second end symmetrically disposed about a wedge centerline, a wedge bridge adapted to connect the first ends of the first and second wedge prongs, and a fastening member adapted to removably fasten the second ends of the first and second wedge prongs wherein each of the first and second wedge prongs are adapted to extend in contact with one of the base wedge s
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Dean N. Marszal, William A. Agli
  • Patent number: 6823601
    Abstract: An image processing type aligner enables proper set-up of one of two optical adjustment elements used to align an adaptive cruise control sensor or the like mounted on a vehicle. One element, such as a laser beam source, is mounted with the sensor on the vehicle; and the other element, such as a mirror, is mounted on a stand. A carrier on the stand positions two optical targets of the aligner at transversely spaced apart locations. The stand is positioned between the vehicle and the aligner and manipulated until the aligner indicates that the axis of the adjustment element on the stand is aligned relative to the thrust line of the vehicle. A beam of light is transmitted between the two adjustment elements, and the technician adjusts the sensor until the beam position indicates a desired alignment of the sensor relative to the thrust line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Snap-On Incorporated
    Inventor: Patrick Murray
  • Patent number: 6820525
    Abstract: A fiducial includes complementary patterns that are situated symmetrically about a common axis. The complementary patterns permit location of the common axis as an axis that is equidistant from the complementary patterns. The complementary patterns are displaced from the common axes by different distances so that the common axis is located using the complementary patterns nearest the common axis to accurately locate the common axis. The complementary patterns include etch-compensation features that permit the common axis to be accurately located even if an etch process defines the fiducial and the etch process exhibits a process error or variation such as underetching or overetching. The fiducial may be produced by transferring a fiducial pattern from a mask such as a photomask. The fiducial pattern may also be defined on the mask using a computer-aided design program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6820348
    Abstract: A mounting tool that includes a base extending along a first direction that is parallel to a longitudinal dimension of the base and a height gage attached to the base. The height gage includes a first leg attached to the base and extending along a second direction that is not parallel to the first direction and a second leg attached to the first leg and comprising a support portion extending along a third direction that is not parallel to the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Acu-Rite, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Brumbaugh
  • Patent number: 6820349
    Abstract: An end effector alignment tool for properly aligning the end effector arm with a prealigner and separately with a top plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: August Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Michael H. Peine
  • Patent number: 6820868
    Abstract: An apparatus for temporarily suspending or supporting a fascia board during the installation thereof, along the eaves or the end of a rafter tail of a frame of a roof structure is described, wherein the device includes a U-shaped bucket (16) for supporting or suspending the fascia board. The U-shaped bucket is engaged in cooperating with a swivel bracket (10) and a rafter tail clamp saddle (4) for attachment to the end of the rafter tail, respectively, to the frame of the roof structure. The apparatus provides an improved method of installing a fascia board, wherein, one person can install the fascia board for the completion of the roof structure thereof. The apparatus can be easily removed and applied to another section of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Reginald W. Reymus
  • Patent number: 6818824
    Abstract: A ganging tool for adjusting the position of a pair of ganged wiring devices such as duplex receptacles, toggle, and decorator type switches on a mounting, e.g., an electrical box. The ganging tool has a frame having a pair of apertures for receiving different kinds of wiring devices and holding them in place while the ganging tool adjusts the position of the wiring devices. The ganging tool also has rotatable toggle adaptors that allow the ganging tool to be used to position both toggle type wiring devices and non-toggle type wiring devices. The ganging tool further has a leveling means for determining the level of the wiring devices. Also, tool cutouts on the frame of the ganging tool allow the ganging tool to be used with power tools in conjunction with positioning and affixing wiring devices on a mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Cooper Wiring Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Claude Marcou, Jim Knapik, Hua Qiang Shi
  • Publication number: 20040221466
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating alignment between a work surface of a work piece includes a base having three switches that contacts the work surface. The switches each activate a respective visual indicator to indicate when a desired alignment condition is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Guy R. Faubion
  • Publication number: 20040216318
    Abstract: An alignment device includes a crossbar and two brackets. Each one of the two brackets includes at least one guide hole, with each guide hole having a front opening. The crossbar couples the two brackets and defines a connector opening. The alignment device also includes two connector alignment posts. Each one of the two connector alignment posts has a first end coupled to the crossbar and an opposing end protruding into the connector opening. A method of connecting a circuit card to a mid plane and a computer including the alignment device also are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: SUN MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Glenn P. Charest, William L. Grouell, John A. Harada
  • Patent number: 6811131
    Abstract: An adjustable supporting tool for an LCD panel, comprises a baseboard, defining a longitudinal axis and a transversal axis, and the intersection point of the longitudinal and transversal axes is set as the central positioning point for the optical measurement; two transversal clipping devices, each having two fixing members, and each fixing member is fixed to the transversal axis, and a sliding track is disposed between the fixing members, and a first clamping member slides along the sliding track to clamp the longitudinal edge of an LCD panel in position, and the first clamping member is coupled to a caliper ruler to show the position of the clamping member, and at least one longitudinal clamping device, each having two fixing members, and the fixing member is fixed to the longitudinal axis, and a sliding track is disposed between the fixing members, and a second clamping member slides along the sliding track to clamp the transversal edge of an LCD panel in position, and the second clamping member is coupled
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Hannstar Display Corp.
    Inventor: Robin Kuo
  • Patent number: 6810600
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fixture, system, and method for automatically and quickly indicating a condition of a the trunnion axis A of a computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine and optionally an alert to a machine operator. The fixture has a body preferably constructed of parallel first and second walls and a third wall disposed between, at right angles to, and connected to the first and second walls all mounted on a base. First, second, and third probe blocks are mounted on the body at first, second, and third angular positions, respectively, along an arc circumscribed by a radius about an axis of rotation. The first, second, and third blocks are mounted on an outer surface of one of the first and second parallel walls, the outer surface facing away from an other of the first and second parallel walls. The blocks include preferably co-planer respective first, second, and third flat surfaces with respective normals parallel to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Unova IP Corp.
    Inventors: William A. Horwarth, Walter S. Howard
  • Publication number: 20040211077
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards receiving removable media, and in some embodiments, providing tighter alignment tolerances between an inserted removable media member and a receiving device. The present invention is also directed towards providing one or more electrical or optical device on or in the removable media member itself, and for providing an electrical and/or optical link between the one or more electrical and/or optical devices on or in the removable media and the receiving device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Schwichtenberg, Aravind Padmanabhan, Robert Demers
  • Patent number: 6807777
    Abstract: An apparatus to aid in the accurate installation of a frame by establishing a required gap and alignment is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a block of material with pre-determined dimensions related to the standard or custom dimensions of the frame and standard or custom dimensions of a subsequent stud and dry wall to be installed. The block of material has a slot running along the length of at least one side with the slot having a pre-determined depth and width corresponding to standard or custom dimensions of an outer lip of the frame to be installed for fitting the block of material onto the outer lip. A securing system for temporarily securing the block of material to the outer lip is also provided. The slot is offset from an edge of the block of material by a distance corresponding to the required gap and alignment to be established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventors: John Wagner, Joseph Ratliff, Richard Zochowski
  • Patent number: 6798955
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for aligning a set of connector guide pins to an optical array, The method comprises the steps of disposing the optical array on a transparent substrate such that an axis of transmission of the optical array passes directly through the transparent substrate, disposing a heatsink with a set of alignment guide pins on a rear surface of the optical array with the set of alignment guide pins extending through the transparent substrate on either side of the optical array, and slotting a set of holes where the set of alignment guide pins extends through the transparent substrate to allow for thermal expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Corona Optical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ron Kunkel, Gary O'Connor
  • Patent number: 6796035
    Abstract: A method and a device to adjust the axle geometry of a vehicle (1), wherein measurement values are taken into account, which are automatically detected at the wheels that are arranged at a fully assembled chassis (14) of the vehicle (1). Advantageously, the chassis (14) is moved to an empty-weight position and at least one of the wheels is rotated. Preferably, an additional measurement value, which represents an inclination of the steering wheel (18) of the vehicle (1) is detected and taken into account. Advantageously, the adjusting device for adjusting the axle geometry is integrated into an assembly line after assembly devices that serve to at least assemble the chassis (14) and the wheels of the vehicle (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesell Schaft
    Inventors: Lars Jahn, Frank Schneider
  • Patent number: 6792688
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process and device for determining the alignment, with respect to a reference direction, of a cylindrical body (10) mounted to rotate around its lengthwise axis (22). The device including a position measurement probe (20), which is calibrated to the reference direction, being attached on the end face (12) of the body or on a surface essentially parallel to the end face, which probe gathers measurement data in at least three measurement positions around the lengthwise axis each position of which differs from the other by an angle of rotation of the body, such that one position measurement at a time is being taken. Then the alignment of the body with respect to the reference direction is computed from the determined measurement data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Prüftechnik Dieter Busch AG
    Inventors: Dieter Busch, Helmut Ambros
  • Patent number: 6789328
    Abstract: A semiconductor load port alignment device has a housing with a registration face and an alignment measurement face. A plurality of sensors are contained in the housing near the alignment measurement face. A processor is connected to the plurality of sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon Haggott Beckhart, Patrick Rooney Conarro, Kevin James Harrell, Kamran Michael Farivar-Sadri
  • Patent number: 6775920
    Abstract: A photolithography step is carried out for exposing/etching a resist film in an etching step. Thereafter a superposition inspection step employing a superposed layer superposition mark and a resist film superposition mark is carried out with a superposition inspection apparatus. In this step, an applied mask confirmation step is simultaneously carried out with the superposition inspection apparatus. Thus, it is possible to provide a method of fabricating a semiconductor device including a superposition inspection step, capable of efficiently confirming an applied mask and improving the fabrication yield for the semiconductor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Renesas Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Takeshi Kishida, Shigenori Kido
  • Patent number: 6775919
    Abstract: A precision, hardened, radially relieved locating pin (20) comprised of a pair of cylindrically ground radially opposed locating segments (22), a pair of radially opposed radial reliefs (26) adjacent to the locating segments, a chamfered lead portion (30) and a mounting/attachment portion (32) which can be of any suitable configuration allowing interchangeability with diamond pin designs. The locating segments, the chamfered lead and the mounting/attachment portion are machined concentric about a common centerline (34). Radially opposed radial reliefs centerlines (36) are offset from, although parallel to, the common centerline. The amount of offset (38) is a direct function of desired travel (40) allowed between the locating pin and the feature (42) being located. The width (44) of the radially opposed locating segments is currently a percentage of segment diameter (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas J. Liebig, Sharon A. Liebig
  • Patent number: 6775918
    Abstract: A wafer cassette pod that is equipped with at least one position sensing device to avoid the accidental falling of a cassette pod door resulting in wafer breakage. The wafer cassette pod is provided with at least one position sensing device mounted in the sidewall of the cassette pod with a finger member protruding from the end surface of the sidewall forming the cassette pod opening. When the wafer cassette pod is not properly positioned, or docked on the loadport, the spring force of the position sensing device pushes the cassette pod away from the entrance of the loadport and thus, preventing the accidental falling of a cassette pod poor resulting in possible wafer breakage problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Hisen-Hwa Tseng, Chia-Hung Chung, Ming-Chien Wen
  • Patent number: 6769194
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for providing nanometer precision motion are provided. According to the invention, a parallel kinematic micromanipulator is formed using at least three kinematic links. The kinematic links may include a high resolution, non-contact encoder to provide position information. Movement of the micromanipulator is effected using piezoelectric linear actuators provided in connection with each of the kinematic links. The combination of a parallel kinematic structure and piezoelectric linear actuators provides a micromanipulator capable of positioning components or instruments with high accuracy or repeatability. In accordance with the present invention, kinematics of three and six degrees of freedom may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: C. William Hennessey
  • Patent number: 6769193
    Abstract: An improvement in the form of an attachment for staple guns including alignment pins aligned with a staple delivery position and located sufficiently close to the staple delivery position to enable staple delivery within a mounting aperture in a frame of a vinyl window or other vinyl construction finishing product. The alignment pins may be secured to the attachment or formed integrally with the attachment or be part of a separate clip securable to the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: David Meisner
  • Patent number: 6766582
    Abstract: An intrinsic gauging device for a ferrule type tube fitting of the type having a coupling nut, a coupling body and at least one ferrule, includes a precisely formed marking on the coupling body that is visually perceptible when the coupling is in a finger tight position, and that is covered or visually imperceptible or otherwise has a predetermined relationship with the coupling nut when the fitting has been initially pulled-up. In a preferred form, the marking is realized as a precision groove or recess machined into a surface of the coupling body. The groove can be made more easily visually perceptible such as by roughening or knurling the surface, or coloring the surface, for example. The groove defines an edge at a precise position that corresponds to a predetermined axial displacement of the nut relative to the body for initial pull-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Swagelok Company
    Inventors: Peter C. Williams, Lonnie E. Johnston
  • Patent number: 6751882
    Abstract: A mechanism for positioning a substrate of an image sensor. The substrate has first to fourth edges. The mechanism includes a standard unit, a link unit, and a push-up needle unit. The standard unit has adjacent first and second standard planes, both of which define a positioning region for receiving the substrate. The first and second edges contact the first and second standard planes, respectively. The link unit includes a first link and a second link pivotally mounted to the first link at a pivotal portion for positioning the third edge of the substrate. The push-up needle unit positions the fourth edge. When the link unit operates, the push-up needle unit and the pivotal portion of the link unit are moved toward the fourth edge and the third edge of the substrate, respectively, to position the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Kingpak Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Pang-Chieh Yen, Jen-Te Huang, Yves Huang, Tanja Liu
  • Patent number: 6741912
    Abstract: A flexible tool for handling small objects, as well as a method for handling small objects using the flexible tool. The flexible tool comprises one or more mini robots, such as a free arm robot and one or more hexapod(s) working in an internal workspace when performing operations on small objects. Furthermore, an external space can be used for storing the objects during non-operation. The hexapods are to engage with a small object and to move a small object between the internal workspace and the external space, and the free arm robot is to move one or more hexapod(s). Fast measurements of robot positions are included, the measurements being feed back to a computer system controlling the mini robots. The computer system further comprises vision and motion planning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Microbotic A/S
    Inventors: Tom Olesen, Søren Olesen, Henrik Andersen, Preben Damgård Jensen
  • Patent number: 6739064
    Abstract: An apparatus designed to set up gear testers and lappers for both above and below center engaged hypoid gear sets. The set-up gage includes a pinion stem and a gage body. The gage body has at least two sets of surfaces to properly position a simulated ring gear within the gear tester for each of the above and below center engaged hypoid gear set arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Torque-Traction Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd A. Smith
  • Patent number: 6732442
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting the position of a load port utilized in a semiconductor wafer processing system. Generally, a door opener can be configured for opening a door through which a semiconductor wafer may enter for subsequent positioning and processing thereof by a semiconductor wafer processing system. A load port is associated with the door opener. A calibration mechanism can then be utilized for calibrating the load port for leveling and height positioning, such that a plurality of directional axis associated with the load port do not interfere with one another, thereby conserving calibration time while permitting a single individual to perform calibration operations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yaw-Wen Wu, Tung-Gan Cheng, Tung-Liang Wua, Cheng-Chao Lin, Hsueh-Cheng Lin, Chia-Fu Tsai, Chih-Jung Yeh, Hung-Tse Huang, Ray-Wen Tsai
  • Patent number: 6732445
    Abstract: A pipe fitting method and apparatus for taking simultaneous linear and angular measurements is used for pipefitting. A first pipe joint fitting of a pipe fitting apparatus herein disclosed is attached to a first pipe joint, a second pipe joint fitting of the pipe fitting apparatus is attached to a second pipe joint, and the first pipe joint is attached to a first unconnected end of a first pipe-to-be-joined. Then, the pipe fitting apparatus is extended to an extended length thereof, while an angle measuring device of the pipe fitting apparatus simultaneously maintains an angular reading at a preselected joinder angle, until a top open end of the second pipe joint aligns with a second pipe-to-be-joined at an alignment line. Next, it is determined where to cut the second pipe-to-be-joined with reference to the alignment line. Finally, it is determined how long to cut a third connecting pipe with reference to the extended length of the pipe fitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: David Scoville
  • Patent number: 6725559
    Abstract: The tool for locating a center mark for embroidery on articles such as garments includes a planar body having orthogonally-related legs with respective exterior and interior edges. Index markings are provided on the legs along the linear edges. The index markings include indicia identifying a plurality of corresponding preestablished garment sizes along the linear extending edges, respectively. By aligning common selected sizes along the edges with the vertical centerline of a folded garment and a shoulder portion of the garment, respectively, the location of the embroiderer's center mark on the garment is identified at the intersection of the linear edges. The interior edges of the tool may also used to form marking lines where conventional hoop grids are not available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Robert S. Burt, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040068884
    Abstract: A method for aligning a component including at least a first and a second datum for inspection. The method includes providing a tool including a fixture having at least a first and a second datum locator, aligning the first datum with the first datum locator, and rotating the component about the first datum to align the second datum with the second datum locator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel Edward Jones, Jacques Juneau
  • Publication number: 20040060186
    Abstract: A laser alignment tool for properly aligning the laser used to count, differentiate, measure, determine orientation or if cross slotted, and/or otherwise correlate or verify position, quantity or other parameters of wafers or like substrates in a cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: August Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Michael H. Peine
  • Publication number: 20040060187
    Abstract: An end effector alignment tool for properly aligning the end effector arm with a prealigner and separately with a top plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: August Technology, Corp.
    Inventor: Michael H. Peine
  • Patent number: 6708393
    Abstract: A fixture and method for aligning a vehicle fender and door, particularly a fixture for an assembly line point that attaches to a vehicle door and moves a front edge of the door to a spacing element, attaches to a vehicle fender, moves the fender to the spacing element and to a pre-defined 3-dimensional relationship with the door, and holds the fender in the pre-defined relationship while the fender is secured in place on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Roy, Anthony J Osborne, John LeBlanc, Ronald R Moore, Larry Weatherall, Lawrence J Guc
  • Patent number: 6708421
    Abstract: A locating device for locating a body such as an electrical box behind a wall or ceiling. The device includes a first member positionable in the body and a second member that can be positioned on the outer surface of the wall or ceiling. A magnet positioned in the first member cooperates with a magnet positioned in the second member to maintain the second member in an aligned position with respect to the electrical box. Two magnets can be used to enhance the alignment of the second member with the electrical box. A circular first member can be used for locating circular boxes or lights. A second member having an arm can be used with a circular first member. The second member can include a plurality of apertures, each aperture sized to correspond to a specific size light or electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: David J. Crorey
  • Patent number: 6705020
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in orienting an object at a reference angle includes a pin gauge having at least two projections located at an end of the body of the apparatus. The projections are located at certain X Y coordinates of an X, Y Z Cartesian coordinate system. A horizontal support supports the body so as to be movable horizontally in the longitudinal direction of the projections. A mechanical drive member is operable to move the body mechanically in the horizontal direction. The apparatus may also include a vertical support and vertical drive member. The pin gauge is mechanically moved into contact with a surface of an object to provide a reference angle for the object. Then the object is pivoted, if necessary, to bring the surface into point contact with all of the projections of the pin gauge, whereupon the object is oriented at the reference angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gyeong-Su Keum, Hyung-Sik Hong, Yun-Sik Yang, Gum-Chan An, Hae-Keun Youn, Byoung-Sik Jung, Ki-Cheol Choi
  • Patent number: 6698103
    Abstract: A mounting plate assembly for use in aligning electrical and plumbing components of a toilet flush valve installation includes a pair of rails having openings therein for use in attaching the assembly to wall studs of variant spacing. There is a plate with openings and fasteners on the plate and rails for variable mounting of the plate to the rails. The plate has an opening for installation of an electrical box and at least one opening for a water inlet pipe. A pipe locater is used to properly position a pipe within the plate opening. There are openings at upper and lower portions of the plate to insure its correct vertical alignment with a water drain from a toilet fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Nortier, Mario E. Semchuck
  • Patent number: 6688017
    Abstract: A method for aligning an extraction electrode to an arc chamber of an ion implantation apparatus can be carried out by first providing a calibration tool that is shaped essentially of a flat key that has sections of different widths. The extraction electrode can then be tilted by switching on a tilt motor, while being moved horizontally by switching on an alignment motor until the calibration tool can be smoothly inserted into the slit openings in the arc chamber and in the extraction electrode. The tilt motor and the alignment motor are controlled by a tilt/align controller. When such insertion is not possible, the extraction electrode can be continuously tilted and moved horizontally until such smooth insertion is possible. The present invention further discloses a calibration tool that can be used easily for aligning an extraction electrode to an arc chamber of an ion implantation apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tai-Kun Kao, Kuo-I Huang
  • Patent number: 6688016
    Abstract: An angular position adjusting device including a first member which holds an object having an axis of rotation, a second member which holds the first member rotatably about the axis of the object, and a rotating mechanism interposed between the first and second members and operable to rotate the first member relative to the second member about the axis of the object, and wherein one of the first and second members has an guiding surface formed to extend along an arc of a circle having a center at the axis of the object, the arc having a center angle smaller than 180°, and the other of the first and second members has a guided surface for sliding contact with the arcuate guiding surface, when the first member is rotated by the rotating mechanism relative to the second member, to adjust the angular position of the object about its axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Fuji Machine Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Suhara, Akiyoshi Tanaka, Takayuki Mizuno
  • Patent number: 6684520
    Abstract: Described are mask-alignment detection structures that measure both the direction and extent of misalignment between layers of an integrated circuit using resistive elements for which resistance varies with misalignment in one dimension. Measurements in accordance with the invention are relatively insensitive to process variations, and the structures using to take these measurements can be formed along with other features on an integrated circuit using standard processes. One embodiment of the invention may be used to measure misalignment between two conductive layers. Other embodiments measure misalignment between diffusion regions and conductors and between diffusion regions and windows through which other diffusion regions are to be formed. A circuit in accordance with one embodiment includes row and column decoders for independently selecting mask-alignment detection structures to reduce the number of test terminals required to implement the detection structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin T. Look, Shih-Cheng Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6681496
    Abstract: A method is disclosed by which precision alignment of optical fiber to wave-guide or other optical elements can be carried out with an adjustable microstructure in active alignment mode fiber attachment. A microstructure containing three elongated U-grooves can be combined effectively to produce a movable and adjustable V-groove structure, which can be used to achieve sub-micron scale alignment control with zero rotational torque. This device not only makes fiber alignment easy and fast but also maintains the fiber attachment position after alignment and epoxy bonding. Multiple fiber array alignment can be carried out with only a global alignment of two end fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin P. Law, Andrew J. Schmit, Jonathan N. Simon, Kirk S. Giboney