Abstract: In a system, method and apparatus for reforming leads of a device having a plurality of generally straight sides and rows of leads of J-shaped configuration extending from the sides of the body portion reforming the leads of a pair of first opposing rows of leads at a first reforming station by moving combs of a lead straightening mechanism through the leads to space the leads a predetermined distance relative to one another. The leads of one row engage against reforming surfaces with the combs engaging between the J-shaped terminal ends. The device is then relocated to present a second pair of opposing rows of leads to a lead straightening mechanism. The second opposing parallel rows of leads are reformed by moving combs through the leads to space the leads a predetermined distance relative to one another by engaging the leads of one row against reforming surfaces with the combs engaging between the J-shaped terminal ends.

Abstract: A lead scanning apparatus for scanning the lead to lead integrity of electronic devices having an axial length and leads extending from the sides thereof. The apparatus includes track means for moving individual devices axially along a path to a scanning station on the path. Stop pins stop each of said devices at predetermined locations on the path where a clamp rail assists in positioning the device in a scanning orientation. The scanning unit is movably positioned at the station for movement axially along the length of the device to generate signals upon intersection of leads extending from both sides of the device. Actual signals from the scanner are compared with predetermined signals to determine the existence and spacing of each lead with respect to a predetermined pattern. A signal based on the comparison for each device is generated.

Abstract: Apparatus for determining coplanarity of a plurality of points, comprising linear motion unit for moving an object along an linear axis. The object has a plane generally perpendicular to the axis. A gage defines a known plane which is also perpendicular to the axis and has a plurality of points thereon corresponding to points on the object. The gage also is adapted to move along the axis by said linear motion unit. Digital signal switches having individual sensors aligned on the axis for contact with the object and the gage are provided to send a set of signals to indicate the position of the object along the axis at each of the points and to provide a reference set of signals when contacted by the corresponding points on the gage. Also included is a comparator means for comparing the signals with the reference signals for each point and the corresponding point on the gage plane to identify the deviation of each point from coplanarity.

Abstract: A system for handling DIP devices packaged in elongated tubes having releasable closure means normally closing at least one end of the tubes to retain DIP devices therein, a head assembly for transferring tubes from an accumulator station to a DIP processing apparatus comprising a housing having an inlet and a discharge trackway section, a pair of drive rollers rotatably mounted adjacent the inlet end of the housing. The rollers are mounted for floating movement relative to one another in a direction generally transverse to the movement of tubes through the housing, closure removal and re-application mechanism downstream of the drive rollers, means for aligning the tube to ensure flow of DIP devices from the tube to the discharge trackway and tube position sensor means operable to activate mechanism for positioning the head assembly so that the discharge trackway section aligns with an inlet trackway of DIP processing apparatus.