Abstract: A carrier tape for handling electrical components includes a reinforced component restraining member. Each pocket of the carrier tape includes at least one component restraining member that resists lateral movement of a component within the pocket. The component restraining member includes a first portion having a first height or spacing from a bottom surface in the pocket. A second portion of the restraining member has a second, taller height or spacing from the bottom surface. The first, lower portion reinforces the component restraining member and strengthens it to avoid lateral deformation during shipment or handling of the carrier tape when an electrical component is placed within the pocket.

Abstract: A carrier tape for handling electrical components includes a reinforced component restraining member. Each pocket of the carrier tape includes at least one component restraining member that resists lateral movement of a component within the pocket. The component restraining member includes a first portion having a first height or spacing from a bottom surface in the pocket. A second portion of the restraining member has a second, taller height or spacing from the bottom surface. The first, lower portion reinforces the component restraining member and strengthens it to avoid lateral deformation during shipment or handling of the carrier tape when an electrical component is placed within the pocket.

Abstract: A component carrier, for holding for purposes of automated visual inspection an electrical component having a lead with a free end, includes a carrier substrate and a pocket recessed in the substrate for holding the component in the interior of the pocket. The pocket includes a wall, depending from the carrier substrate and defining a lateral boundary of the pocket, and a bottom. There is a lead-tip horizontal plane and a lead-tip vertical plane when a correctly constructed component of the type the carrier is intended to hold is properly oriented in the pocket. The lead-tip vertical plane is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the pocket. The wall slopes down and inwardly at a first angle relative to the substrate through the lead-tip horizontal plane and at a second angle relative to the substrate through the lead-tip vertical plane. The first angle is greater than or equal to approximately 75.degree. and less than or equal to 90.degree., and the second angle is less than 90.degree.