Patents by Inventor Keith E. Wetzel

Keith E. Wetzel has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6268231
    Abstract: A packaging solution for CCD devices and other opto-electronic applications that offers a lower cost, automated assembly process. A package made of a moldable plastic material with low moisture permeability, and high dimensional stability by employing materials such as liquid crystal polymer. While relatively high cost plastic materials may be used, the overall cost is expected to be substantially lower than a corresponding ceramic package. An interconnect circuit pattern is then be formed on the plastic using one of a variety of plating options known in the circuit board, and in the molded interconnect industry. The ability to mold a flexible circuits into the package results from the use of these materials. Conductors of standard materials in the circuit board industry; e.g., copper with selective nickel and gold plating are employed on a non reflective substrate surface. The CCD sensor is mounted to this plastic substrate and connected to the conductive pattern using standard wire bonding processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Keith E. Wetzel
  • Patent number: 6011294
    Abstract: A packaging solution for CCD devices and other opto-electronic applications that offers a lower cost, automated assembly process. A package made of a moldable plastic material with low moisture permeability, and high dimensional stability by employing materials such as liquid crystal polymer. While relatively high cost plastic materials may be used, the overall cost is expected to be substantially lower than a corresponding ceramic package. An interconnect circuit pattern is then be formed on the plastic using one of a variety of plating options known in the circuit board, and in the molded interconnect industry. The ability to mold a flexible circuits into the package results from the use of these materials. Conductors of standard materials in the circuit board industry; e.g., copper with selective nickel and gold plating are employed on a non reflective substrate surface. The CCD sensor is mounted to this plastic substrate and connected to the conductive pattern using standard wire bonding processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Keith E. Wetzel