Abstract: The present invention relates to a clamping device for compression clamping of one or more semiconductor devices and associated semiconductor components with a desired compression force equally distributed across the opposing surfaces of the devices and associated components. The semiconductor devices and components are located between opposing jaws that are joined together by at least two tie rods, which compressively load the opposing jaws to apply the desired compression force to the semiconductor devices and components. The desired compression force is first achieved in even distribution between independent clamp pressure set point assemblies and the first jaw, where each of the independent clamp pressure set point assemblies is associated with one of the tie rods.

Abstract: An induction coil for inductively heating electrically conductive materials includes a plurality of individual coil turns, each turn lying in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the coil and comprising an electrical conductor formed into an annulus. The conductor has first and second terminals for connecting the turn to an electrical circuit. The first and second terminals are adjacent each other at a preselected circumferential position on the annulus and are physically and electrically isolated from each other. The first terminal of one turn is located adjacent and electrically connected to the second terminal of an adjacent turn. The first terminal of a selected one of the plurality of turns forms a first coil terminal and the second terminal of a different selected one of the plurality of turns forms a second coil terminal.

Abstract: The instant invention is directed to a stopper rod spatial control mechanism for use in combination with a bottom discharge holding reservoir for molten metal having a nozzle. The mechanism comprises a base, an outer tube and an inner tube. The outer tube has a longitudinal axis which is perpendicular to the base. The outer tube is swingably mounted about an axis parallel to and spaced away from the longitudinal axis. The inner tube is telescopically mounted within the outer tube. The inner tube is reciprocally movable along the longitudinal axis and is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. A servomotor is mounted at a lower end of the outer tube. A ball screw is connected to and rotated by the motor. A ball nut is affixed to the inner tube and cooperates with the ball screw. A boom having a first end and a second end is affixed to the inner tube adjacent its first end and rotates with the inner tube about the longitudinal axis. A stopper rod depends from the second end of the boom.