Abstract: Digital image processing methods are applied to an image of a semiconductor interconnection pad to preprocess the image prior to an inspection or registration. An image of a semiconductor pads exhibiting spatial patterns from structure, texture or features are filtered without affecting features in the image not associated with structure or texture. The filtered image is inspected in a probe mark inspection operation.

Abstract: A method is provided for computing a composite image representing a focused image of an object in an application of machine vision in an optical inspection system. An image tessellated into focus regions is evaluated by region for fine feature sharpness. A sharpness image is computed for each focused region using a fine feature sharpness measurement. A focused composite image is computed by combining as a weighted average, the images at several focus settings, using the sharpness image at each focus setting as the weight. The focused composite image can be further analyzed, inspected, or otherwise processed.

Abstract: An image of a semiconductor interconnection pad is analyzed to determine a geometric description of the zone regions of a multiple zone semiconductor interconnection pad. Edge detection machine vision tools are used to extract features in the image. The extracted features are analyzed to derive geometric descriptions of the zone regions of the pad, that are applied in semiconductor device inspection, fabrication, and assembly operations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for inspection of probe marks made on the interconnection lands of semiconductor devices using machine vision is disclosed. An image of an interconnection land is analyzed, and features of the image that may constitute indicia of probe marks are refined through the application of a series of unique heuristic processes. The output of the method is measurement data that can be used to characterize and verify the processes used to electrically probe semiconductor devices.

Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining a focused image of an object in an application of machine vision in an optical inspection system. A coarse focus setting is first obtained by maximizing a coarse feature sharpness measurement performed on an image of the object of inspection. Then, a fine focus setting is obtained by maximizing a fine feature sharpness measurement performed on a portion of an image of the object of inspection. Finally, the fine focused image can be further analyzed, inspected, or otherwise processed.

Abstract: The invention provides boundary-based machine vision methods and systems for comparing a pattern to an image. These contemplate the steps of finding boundary points in the image and comparing those points with boundary points in the pattern to identify “matches,” i.e., boundary points in the image that match boundary points in the pattern, “extras,” i.e., boundary points in the image which do not match boundary points in the pattern, and “missing,” i.e., boundary points in the pattern that do not match boundary points in the image. Quantitative and/or qualitative information about matching, extra or missing points can be generated, including the differences between the locations, angles and contrasts of each boundary point in the image and the corresponding boundary point in the pattern.

Abstract: An acquired arrangement of object locations is analyzed. The acquired arrangement imperfectly conforms to an ideal arrangement of points. Sets of vectors are found in the acquired arrangement. A composite set of vectors is derived from the sets of vectors.

Abstract: A converter dolly replaces the rear wheels of a truck trailer to provide the trailer with a steering ability about its rear wheels. The converter dolly is modified to include a hydraulic actuating system, including a piston, cylinder, and pump assembly, which act upon the tongue of the converter dolly to pivot the converter dolly about a king pin. The actuation of the hydraulic system is performed by the driver of the tractor towing the trailer through a control system mounted in the tractor cab.

Abstract: A home burglar alarm system, dependent on a telephone line for operability, can be protected by covering the exterior telephone wiring with an enclosure fastened to the building exterior surface. The enclosure conceals and physically shields the telephone wiring form attack by a would-be intruder. As back-up protection, the wiring enclosure is provided with an audible alarm system that is triggered by breakage or destruction of the enclosure.

Abstract: A shingle removing implement can include a flat blade adapted to be inserted underneath the designated shingle, and an elongated handle extending a substantial distance from the blade to cause the blade to exert a lifting action on the shingle. An arcuate plate is secured to the back surface of the blade, to form a wedge structure that facilitates a prying action of the blade on the shingle.