Work Holding Patents (Class 29/559)
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Publication number: 20130264780Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a substrate holding apparatus is provided. The substrate holding apparatus includes a first holding part, a second holding part and a controller. The first holding part adsorbs and holds a first region including a central portion of a substrate. The second holding part adsorbs and holds a second region located outside the first region of the substrate. The second holding part adsorbs and holds the second region of the substrate after the first holding part adsorbs and holds the first region of the substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2013Publication date: October 10, 2013Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITEDInventors: Yasuharu IWASHITA, Osamu HIRAKAWA, Eiji MANABE, Takeshi TAMURA, Akira FUKUTOMI
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Publication number: 20130263431Abstract: An apparatus may comprise a permanent magnet unit, an end effector, and an electromagnetic clamping device. The end effector may be capable of performing workpiece operations. The electromagnetic clamping device may have an activated state and a deactivated state.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2013Publication date: October 10, 2013Inventors: Branko Sarh, Harry Asada, Manas Chandran Menon
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Patent number: 8550441Abstract: A supporting member, carrier and method of supporting are provided with a supporting member main body mounted to freely rotate. The supporting member main body is provided with a plurality of projections extending radially from a central rotation axis. Since the substrate is supported by abutment of the projections with an end of the substrate, the occurrence of cracking in the substrate can be prevented or the durability of the supporting member main body can be increased.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2008Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: ULVAC, Inc.Inventors: Koji Ishino, Hajime Nakamura, Mayako Matsuda, Takaaki Shindou, Yukio Kikuchi
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Publication number: 20130256964Abstract: A method of attaching a wafer by suction, includes a step of mounting a wafer on a right arm and a left arm of a transfer jig, moving the transfer jig toward a wafer suction stage in such a manner that a facing right arm surface of the right arm slides along and in contact with a first side surface of the wafer suction stage and a facing left arm surface of the left arm slides along and in contact with a second side surface of the wafer suction stage until the wafer comes to lie directly above a mounting surface of the wafer suction stage, mounting the wafer on the mounting surface by moving the transfer jig downward toward the wafer suction stage while maintaining the contacts, and attaching the wafer to the mounting surface by suction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: October 3, 2013Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONInventors: Hajime AKIYAMA, Akira OKADA, Kinya YAMASHITA
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Publication number: 20130247358Abstract: A lotto scratch pad and method of collecting scrapings, in general, a holding device having a backer board or hard surface with a clasp or clip attached thereto and positioned approximate one edge of the backer board, at least one collection bin, compartment, trough or receptacle positioned on another edge of the backer board having a hinged tab to enclose lotto ticket shavings therein and, thus, functions to collect and contain any scrapings created as a player scratches the opaque covering off scratch tickets on the holding device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Inventor: Shane Watson
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Publication number: 20130247359Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary actuated axial clamp that includes a primary fixture, having a rotatable primary clamp, having primary clamp fingers that engage secondary clamp fingers on a stationary secondary clamp. The primary fixture is attached to a positioner, while the secondary fixture is attached to the work piece. Different secondary fixtures can be utilized to fit the shape and size of the work piece, while maintaining a secondary clamp that is able to engage the primary clamp of the primary fixture. The primary fixture can consequently be utilized with numerous different work pieces having different shapes and sizes by simply modifying a secondary fixture to adapt to the size and shape of the work piece. Roller engagement of the primary clamp and secondary clamp reduces the force required to clamp and unclamp the primary and secondary fixtures. This reduces problems associated with attaching a work piece to a positioner.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: RIMROCK AUTOMATION, INC. DBA WOLF ROBOTICSInventor: RIMROCK AUTOMATION, INC. dba WOLF ROBOTICS
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Publication number: 20130249157Abstract: A deformable thin object spreading device and method are disclosed. The device includes a control part configured to: control a clamping unit and a moving mechanism to cause the clamping unit to clamp a first point of a deformable thin object; cause an endpoint detecting part to detect a first endpoint; control the clamping unit and the moving mechanism to cause the clamping unit to clamp the first endpoint; cause the endpoint detecting part to detect a second endpoint; control the clamping unit and the moving mechanism to cause the clamping unit to clamp both of the first endpoint and the second endpoint; cause the endpoint detecting part to detect a third endpoint; and control the clamping unit and the moving mechanism to cause the clamping unit to clamp both of the first endpoint or the second endpoint and the third endpoint of the deformable thin object.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2011Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: SEVEN DREAMERS LABORATORIES, INC.Inventors: Yoshimasa Endo, Hiroshi Kitagawa, Hiroshi Kimura
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Publication number: 20130239401Abstract: A workpiece clamping jig configured to clamp a workpiece is provided with a baseplate, a fixed abutting member, and a movable abutting member. The baseplate has a pocket, which forms an air intake passage on the reverse side of a workpiece mounting surface, and a suction through-hole internally connecting the workpiece mounting surface and the pocket. The fixed abutting member is disposed on the baseplate and has a fixed abutting surface corresponding to the shape of the workpiece, and the movable abutting member has an abutting surface movable relative to the workpiece caused to abut against the fixed abutting surface of the fixed abutting member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: FANUC CORPORATIONInventor: Takashi MASAKAWA
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Publication number: 20130240759Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for holding and cooling substrates during processing. A substrate clamp has an engagement portion for engaging a substrate about the inside diameter as well as a portion of the substrate surface immediately adjacent to the inside diameter. The clamp has a retracted position which enables the engagement portion to fit through the substrate ID, and an expanded position which enables the engagement portion to engage the substrate ID and the substrate surface immediately adjacent to the inside diameter. The clamp can include a conformal coating to enhance engagement between the substrate and the engagement portion. The clamp can also include an energy absorbing coating on one or more surfaces to maximize the absorption of radiative energy emitted from the substrate. Other embodiments are described and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey E. Krampert, Richard J. Hertel, John Robert Fairhurst
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Publication number: 20130233495Abstract: The present invention concerns a wheel-clamping device for wheels on wheel-service-machines with only one drive unit and further a method for clamping wheels on a wheel-clamping device of wheel-service-machines with only one drive unit. The innovative wheel-clamping device for a wheel-service-machine according to the present invention comprises a frame 20 having a through-opening 22, and a spindle 30 being rotatably supported in the through-opening 22. Further, the spindle 30 has a through-hole 32 with a mounting-side end 30b and a driving-side end 30a, which is connectable to a drive means which is provided for a rotary movement for the spindle 30, wherein the spindle 30 has an external thread 34 on an external circumferential portion. Moreover, the wheel-clamping device comprises a sleeve 50 with a turntable 58 for the wheel to be clamped, wherein the sleeve 50 has an internal thread portion 52 which is in threaded engagement with the external thread-portion 34 of the spindle 30.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2013Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: SNAP-ON EQUIPMENT SRL A UNICO SOCIOInventor: Paolo SOTGIU
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Publication number: 20130219693Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for holding disk-shaped articles and a method thereof. The device comprises a rotatable chuck body and at least two groups of clamping elements arranged at the edge of the chuck body. Each of the clamping elements is mounted to a pivot with the chuck body respectively by means of the rotation of the clamping element with respect to the chuck body. A radial compression spring is connected between the bottom of the clamping element and the chuck body to provide a clamping force for the clamping element. The clamping elements in the same group are provided with magnets with the same polarity, while the clamping elements in different groups are provided with magnets with the opposite polarity. Two sets of electromagnets are arranged on the chuck body and spaced apart evenly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2012Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicant: BEIJING SEVENSTAR ELECTRONICS CO.,LTD.Inventors: Yi Wu, Hao Wang, Wei Li, Ruiting Wang, Bao Zhang
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Publication number: 20130219692Abstract: A device and method for holding a bit for a tool. The holding device, which is secured to a support surface, includes a housing having a base, a first leg and a second leg. A slot is defined between the first and second legs and the shank of the bit is received through one of a plurality of differently dimensioned apertures defined along the slot between the first and second legs. An adjustment assembly is engaged with the first and second legs and is movable to a first position to clamp the shank in the selected aperture; and is movable to a second position to release the shank. When the adjustment assembly is moved from the second position to the first position, a free end of the second leg bends toward the first leg, thereby reducing the diameter of the aperture within which the shank is received.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2012Publication date: August 29, 2013Inventor: Sjoerd Anne Van Valkenburg
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Publication number: 20130221589Abstract: Manufacturing spectacle lenses using lens blanks blocked onto holding elements is laborious and time-consuming. Furthermore the manufacture is rendered difficult by different surface curvatures on the receiving side of the lens blanks. The purpose of the invention is to remedy such drawbacks. Accordingly this invention relates to equipment for processing lens blanks comprising a workpiece turret supported rotatably about a main axis of rotation, said turret being fitted with at least two workpiece receptacles configured each outside the main axis of rotation and being rotatable about spindle axes, each workpiece receptacle comprising a workpiece receiving surface having a surface curvature rotationally symmetrical about the spindle axis, whereby said surface curvatures of the workpiece receiving surfaces being different from each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Inventor: Roland Mandler
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Patent number: 8516680Abstract: A building and grain bin lifting system utilizing a combination of lifting assemblies for lifting building and grain bin components. The lifting assembly includes a mobile supporting structure, a jack disposed within the mobile supporting structure configured to linearly travel, a mounting bracket attached to the jack, connectably interfacing with a building component, an exclusive power source for providing operating power to the jack, an onboard controller enabling selective raise/lower activation of the jack, and a remote control unit in communication with the controller allowing an operator to operate one or more controls associated with the lifting assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Inventors: Roger D. Kooima, Thomas V. Schorn
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Method of manufacture of aerofoil assemblies having datum features located in complementary fixtures
Patent number: 8516676Abstract: A method of fixturing a plurality of dissimilar blade assemblies, wherein each assembly undergoes one or more manufacturing steps to bring it to a finished form, the method comprising the step of providing on each of the articles a datum feature, wherein each datum feature is of identical form and dimension, in turn a) locating the datum feature of a first one of the articles in a complimentary fixture to secure the dissimilar article, b) performing at least one manufacturing step on the secured dissimilar article, c) removing the dissimilar article from the fixture, d) locating the datum feature of another of the articles in the complimentary fixture to secure the dissimilar article, e) performing at least one manufacturing step on the secured dissimilar article, f) removing the dissimilar article from the fixture.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLCInventor: Colin J. High -
Publication number: 20130214468Abstract: A specimen carrier for use with an ex-situ lift-out (EXLO) milling process includes a carrier top surface having at least one specimen support area and at least one aperture formed through the specimen carrier top surface. The aperture includes a first opening having an open wider upper end and a narrower lower end. The first opening is bounded by opposed sidewalls in spaced-apart orientation that are inwardly inclined from the wider upper end to the narrower lower end. The aperture is configured to enable a specimen to sit over the opening and can be wedged between the first opening opposed sidewalls so that a region of interest to be milled is centered about the open end of the opening. Specimens so mounted can then be re-thinned via charged particle instruments such as focused ion beam (FIB) milling, broad beam ion milling, or via laser ablation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2012Publication date: August 22, 2013Applicant: L.A. GIANNUZZI & ASSOCIATES LLCInventor: Lucille A. Giannuzzi
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Patent number: 8510929Abstract: This invention relates to an indexer for providing rotation of a part from a first index position to a second index position. The indexer comprises an indexer frame and a part for rotation. The indexer frame has at least one index feature, and the part has at least one index feature, wherein the at least one index feature on the indexer frame is co-operable with the at least one index feature on the part so as to provide two or more index positions of the part with respect to the indexer frame. In use the part locates with the indexer frame so as to form an axis about which the part is able to rotate relative to the indexer frame, the axis being kinematically located.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Renishaw PLCInventors: David Roberts McMurtry, Mark Stephen James Forman
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Patent number: 8510924Abstract: A reconfigurable fixture device system, including: a base member; a reconfigurable pad disposed on the base member, wherein the reconfigurable pad comprises a shape memory material configured to selectively conform to a surface contour of a workpiece; an activation device in operative communication with the shape memory material; a controller in operable communication with at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the activation device, and the base member; a plurality of sensors for sensing a parameter associated with at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the base member, the fixture device, and the workpiece, wherein the plurality of sensors is in operable communication with the controller; and an actuator in operable communication with the controller and the at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the base member, the fixture device, and the workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Nilesh D. Mankame, James W. Wells, Christopher P. Henry, Ivan G. Sears, Douglas Martin Linn, Alan L. Browne, Richard J. Skurkis
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Publication number: 20130205578Abstract: An installation system for attaching a transparent pane to a frame includes at least one support tool having a base member and a support member. The support member is operably coupled to the base member, and the support member is operable to support the pane in a fixed position relative to the frame. The support tool also includes a magnet that is fixed to at least one of the base member and the support member for magnetically and removably attaching the at least one support tool to the frame. A method of attaching the pane to the frame is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2012Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: CHRYSLER GROUP LLCInventors: Harry J. Glikis, Cheryl A. Discher, Renee G. Dicicco, Deborah L. Froehlich, Giurgevca Palincas, Keith Windmill
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Patent number: 8505178Abstract: A system and method for manufacturing that provides for adjustable support of work pieces such as printed circuit boards includes an edge rail system having first and second edge rails, with at least one of the edge rails being adjustable, allowing the width of the system to be adjusted to accommodate various widths of work pieces. It also includes a set of support strips for supporting a lower side of the work pieces and a means for dynamically adjusting spacing of support strips to adjust to the width of the edge rail system.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2009Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Production Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Douglas T. Farlow, Thomas A. Gordon
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Patent number: 8499433Abstract: A clamping system can be reconfigured to clamp any of multiple workpieces having differing shapes. The system includes a retention assembly for retaining an inflatable bladder that applies a clamping force to the workpiece. The retention assembly includes a flexible chain of pivotally connected links that can be locked in place to form a rigid assembly that conforms to the shape of the workpiece. The links can be unlocked to allow reconfiguration of the retention assembly into shapes matching other workpieces.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2007Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Mike P. Matlack, Kurt A. Burton, John A. Baumann
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Publication number: 20130193625Abstract: A method for installing objects such as cabinets on a vertical surface such as a wall includes the use of a novel support device having an adjustable leg and an upper portion including two vertically spaced support surfaces. Two of the support devices are first placed at a selected height at an angle to the wall for initially supporting the object on a first support surface. The support devices are then sequentially moved to extend between a front portion of the object and the floor so that the object rests on the second support surface thus freeing both hands of the installer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2012Publication date: August 1, 2013Inventors: Donald E. VanOrden, Robert J. Frye
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Patent number: 8495811Abstract: A bench for the support and manufacturing of parts with complex geometry includes a support base on which one or more mobile units of support/manufacturing move. The mobile units of support/manufacturing can move and relocate independently from other ones on the surface of the support base. The mobile units of support/manufacturing include at least two adhesion feet configured to connect to anchoring elements distributed on the surface of the support base. The anchoring points are distributed on the surface of the support base with a predefined distribution according to a geometry, such that the distance between any anchoring point, and the corresponding anchoring element, from any other said anchoring point, and the corresponding anchoring organ, in the immediate vicinity of the anchoring point and the corresponding anchoring organ, is constant and equal to the radius of a predefined circle.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2011Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Inventors: Matteo Zoppi, Rezia Molfino, Dimiter Zlatanov
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Publication number: 20130185926Abstract: The present pipe clamp device is configured for use with standard vee head jack stands. The present device can be used to secure a pipe or similarly shaped object to a standard vee head jack stand. Specifically, the present pipe clamp device can comprise one or more pivoting arms that can facilitate an object's placement into the pipe clamp device or its removal from the pipe clamp, a threaded rod, which can include a release button or quick release mechanism, which can be used to quickly tighten the clamp onto an object being secured and the jack stand or to remove an object from the jack stand.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2012Publication date: July 25, 2013Inventors: Wayne Michael Williams, Alex V. Palominos
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Publication number: 20130185925Abstract: A system includes a frame having spaced apart first and second upright members, and a robot including an end effector and a plurality of arms. The arms extend from the end effector and clamp onto the first and second frame members to position the end effector between the first and second frame members.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2012Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Branko Sarh, Harinder S. Oberoi, Rodney S. Wright, Charles Y. Hu
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Patent number: 8490277Abstract: A tool to aid in the installation of garbage disposal units through the facilitation of lifting such a unit to the drain portion of a sink is provided. Such a tool permits a single user to retain and maneuver a disposal unit into position in order to facilitate attachment thereof to a sink drain with reliability and consistency. Such a tool includes moveable rods of sufficient strength and rigidity to accommodate the disposal unit weight at specific levels such that the user may place and lift the disposal unit on demand without deleteriously effecting the finish or other portions of the subject sink to marring during such installation. The method of installation utilizing such a manual tool is encompassed within the invention as well.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Inventor: Michael K. Dahood
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Patent number: 8484826Abstract: An apparatus and method for installing a piston and connecting rod assembly in a cylinder of an engine block includes a frame, an installation rod and a guide defining a channel complementary to the rod. The frame is disposed about an opening at the bottom of the engine block and the guide is positioned on the frame in alignment with a cylinder. The installation rod is coupled to the connecting rod and the rod and the piston and connecting rod assembly are slid into the cylinder. The installation rod is received within the guide channel and maintains the connecting rod perpendicular to the crankshaft and away from the cylinder wall. As the connecting rod moves toward the crankshaft, the guide and rod move the connecting rod into proper alignment and contact with the crankshaft.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Brent Kemmer, Marc L. Huffman, Scott M. Kociba, Christopher W. Zwolensky, Quintin A. Wilson
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Patent number: 8485511Abstract: One embodiment is an apparatus for holding a device that includes a body having at least one aperture bounded by edges between a top and a bottom surface and having a holding portion wherein: (a) a first and a second resilient prong extend into the aperture, each prong has a movable end extending beyond the holding portion and having an actuating surface thereon; (b) the first and the second resilient prongs are disposed to urge the device against aperture edges; (c) the actuating surfaces of the first and second prongs are juxtaposed; and (d) a movable cam is interposed between the actuating surfaces of the prongs.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2009Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Centipede Systems, Inc.Inventor: Thomas H. Di Stefano
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Patent number: 8484822Abstract: A method of loading an article, such as a self-expanding stent, into a structure, such as a delivery catheter, including the steps of chilling the article to a predetermined temperature, reducing article size a predetermined amount, inserting fluid into the article, whereby the fluid forms a substantially solid plug with respect to the article, and moving the frozen article. Also provided is an apparatus for loading an article into a structure including: an article size reduction element, a chiller connected to the size reduction element, a cold source communicatively connected to the chiller, and a fluid supply communicatively connected to the size reduction element.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Machine Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Justin Sokel, Paul Reiss
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Publication number: 20130174409Abstract: An installation device for installing a windshield in a vehicle. The device includes a pivot assembly including a pair of suction cups that attach to the door glass of a vehicle door, and a depending member that extends upwardly and forwardly adjacent a windshield opening. A support assembly includes a pair of suction cups that attach to a windshield, and a support rod that is axially and rotatably moveable with respect to the suction cups. The support rod includes an end that pivots on the depending member of the pivot assembly. The device moveably supports the windshield such that a single technician can install the windshield on a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2013Publication date: July 11, 2013Applicant: AEGIS TOOLS INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventor: AEGIS Tools International, Inc.
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Patent number: 8479371Abstract: A process and an associated assembly for supporting a porous media during a treatment which exposes the media to a fluid that modifies at least one property of the media. The assembly includes a supporting core. The media is wrapped in a plurality of layers about the core to form a first roll of the media. The assembly includes first securement mechanisms exerting diametrical pressure on the ends of the first roll to prevent fluid flow axially out of the ends of the first roll. An additional amount of the media is being wrapped in a plurality of layers about the first roll to form a second roll of the media. The assembly includes second securement mechanisms exerting diametrical pressure on the ends of the second roll to prevent fluid flow axially out of the ends of the second roll. The assembly may be part of equipment.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2010Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Martin Gregory Hatfield
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Publication number: 20130171336Abstract: In a wafer processing method and a wafer processing system, a first property on a back side of a wafer is measured. The back side of the wafer is supported on a multi-zone chuck having a plurality of zones with controllable clamping forces. The wafer is secured to the multi-zone chuck by controlling the clamping forces in the corresponding zones in accordance with measured values of the first property in the zones.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY, LTD.Inventors: Nai-Han CHENG, Chi-Ming YANG, You-Hua CHOU, Kuo-Sheng CHUANG, Chin-Hsiang LIN
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Publication number: 20130168929Abstract: A semiconductor wafer processing tool has a support structure for a coarse motion positioning system. A measurement head having a rigid super structure is supported from the support structure by vibration isolators and a top plate is mounted to the super structure. A vacuum transfer chuck is releasably carried by the coarse motion positioning system and releasably adherable to the top plate by application of vacuum. The vacuum transfer chuck supports a semiconductor wafer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: MULTIPROBE, INC.Inventors: Andrew N. Erickson, Jeffrey M. Markakis, Anton Riley
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Publication number: 20130171748Abstract: A semiconductor device has an alignment mark which can be recognized by a conventional wafer prober. A redistribution layer connects electrodes of the semiconductor device to electrode pads located in predetermined positions of the redistribution layer. Metal posts configured to be provided with external connection electrodes are formed on the electrode pads of the redistribution layer. A mark member made of the same material as the metal posts is formed on the redistribution layer. The mark member serves as an alignment mark located in a predetermined positional relationship with the metal posts.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2013Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: FUJITSU SEMICONDUCTOR LIMITEDInventor: FUJITSU SEMICONDUCTOR LIMITED
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Patent number: 8474124Abstract: A tooling system comprises a plurality of elements arranged in an array, the elements of the array being movable between a closed position in which the elements contact one another and are secured in position, and an open position in which the elements of the array are spaced apart and are capable of vertical movement relative to one another, characterized in that the tooling system further comprises means for retaining the elements of the array in a plurality of different relative vertical alignments. A method of operating the tooling system is also described, which method of operating includes at least the steps of moving the elements of the array into a first vertical alignment, machining the free ends of the elements according to a predetermined pattern and moving the elements of the array into a second vertical alignment in which the machined ends of the elements produce a desired surface contour.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2005Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Surface Generation, Ltd.Inventor: Ben John Halford
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Patent number: 8478436Abstract: A truss assembly station may include a truss assembler. The truss assembler may be configured to enable assembly of a truss from truss members by providing an automatic sequential placement of the truss members based at least in part upon a planned location of pre-plated truss members within an assembled truss. The pre-plated truss members may be truss members including at least one connector plate installed thereon prior to placement at the truss assembly station.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David L. McAdoo, Timothy K. McAdoo
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Publication number: 20130166071Abstract: A processing tool, especially drilling tool, includes a processing element (5) acting on a workpiece (3) and a connection (9) for a handling device (10), especially a robot. The processing tool (1) has a feed device (8) connected to the connection (9) for feeding the processing element (5) by a motion of the handling device (10) connected to the connection (9). The handling device (1) moves and actuates the feed device (8) of the processing tool (1) for feeding the processing element (5).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2012Publication date: June 27, 2013Applicant: KUKA SYSTEMS GMBHInventor: KUKA SYSTEMS GMBH
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Publication number: 20130160279Abstract: A process cap for protecting a top side of a flat substrate includes a cap and a seal. The seal is circumferentially arranged on a circumferential rim of the cap such that the cap effects a liquid-tight and vapor-tight closure between cap and flat substrate when the cap is fitted on a top side of the flat substrate. The process cap touches the flat substrate only in a circumferential rim area of the same, when it is fitted on the flat substrate and defines a fluid-tight space without any openings between process cap and flat substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2012Publication date: June 27, 2013Inventors: Marcel SIEME, Michael Kellerer, Jens Eckstein
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Patent number: 8464414Abstract: A vertical mounted motor hoist and a method of hoisting a motor are provided. The motor hoist includes a threaded eye bolt for lifting the motor hoist; a sleeve threaded inside one end, and attached and held to the threaded eyebolt by means of a threaded plug and dowel pins and welding; and two safety chains for placement around the motor, each safety chain attachable to the sleeve by means of two oppositely positioned pinch bolts, each pinch bolt having a welded nut welded on to the sleeve and a jam nut tightened against the welded nuts.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Lorenzo R. Gutierrez
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Patent number: 8465011Abstract: A fixing jig is made up of a plate-like jig main body (2) and a close contact layer (3) which detachably holds a work (W) in close contact therewith. The jig main body has: on one surface thereof a plurality of supporting projections (4) to support the close contact layer; and also has, along an outer peripheral portion of said one surface, a side wall (5) which is of substantially the same height as the supporting projections. The close contact layer is adhered to an end surface of the side wall to thereby define a partitioned space (6) between the close contact layer and the jig main body. By sucking the air within the partitioned space via a ventilation hole (7) formed in the jig main body, the close contact layer is deformed. The work is thus surely supported and fixed also in performing a processing in which a force is applied to the work.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignees: Lintec Corporation, Shin-Etsu PolymerInventors: Takeshi Segawa, Kiyofumi Tanaka
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Patent number: 8459622Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for orienting a workpiece during processing. A fixture supports the workpiece adjacent a noncontacting biaser. At least one of the fixture and the biaser are selectively movable in a first direction with respect to the other. The biaser directs a first magnetic force capable of moving the workpiece relative to the fixture in a different second direction without physical contact between the biaser and the workpiece during a travel path segment of movement between the fixture and the biaser. The biaser further directs a second magnetic force capable of moving the workpiece relative to the fixture in a third direction, that is different than the second direction, without physical contact between the biaser and the workpiece during a subportion of the travel path segment of movement between the fixture and the biaser.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Seagate Technology LLCInventors: Shawn Allen Ruden, Bryan Charles Roberts
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Publication number: 20130140751Abstract: A portable vise, particularly for use in supporting elongated member, provides a convenient design for safely cutting, drilling, welding, and painting. An elongated member is inserted through an aperture of a vise body. The vise rests upon the ground or other work surface such that one end of the elongated member is supported over the work surface while the other end of the elongated member rests upon the work surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Inventors: Raymond H. Losi, JR., David W. McManama
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Patent number: 8453311Abstract: A method of forming a batch of uniformly shaped glass sheet objects is disclosed. A stack of glass sheets is placed in a frame and submerged in a coolant. A hole is drilled through the stack. The cores of the hole and any debris from the drilling process are swept away in the coolant and pumped through a filter. A pin is inserted into the hole and attached to the base. A head on the pin, or a washer, fixes the stack of glass to the base at the hole. An outer profile is then cut in the glass stack around the hole while the formed objects are held to a base of the frame by the pin. Again, any debris is swept away in the coolant. The uniformly shaped objects are removed from the frame and separated. The glass sheet objects are preferably usable as a substrate for a magnetic or magneto-optical (MO) data/information storage retrieval medium.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2008Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Seagate Technology LLCInventors: Robert Lloyd Babcock, Koji Shima
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Patent number: 8448928Abstract: The invention relates to a device for holding a model support of an abutment model and also to an insert (1) for holding such a model support, with a first area and a second area, wherein the first area comprises a flat surface (6) with a step (4) at the center of which there is an area which has an attachment geometry of an implant and onto which the model support of the abutment model can be mounted, wherein the second area comprises means that permit positioning of the insert, and wherein the insert comprises an optically detectable marking (5). The invention additionally relates to a pot (13) for receiving an insert according to the invention, wherein the pot comprises at least one magnet (18) and at least one recess and/or elevation on the bottom surface. The invention also relates to a scanning device, a scanning method, a method for producing an abutment, a method for producing a tooth replacement part, and a computer-readable medium.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2008Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Straumann Holding AGInventor: Gerhard Weber
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Publication number: 20130127102Abstract: A method and device for treating a wafer-shaped article utilizes a novel clamping mechanism, which permits wafer shift to be performed with reduced wear to the chuck pins. A wafer is rotated on a spin chuck that has a plurality of pins positioned at a periphery of the wafer shaped article. The pins each have a head portion which, in a service position, extends radially inwardly of and above the wafer. Gas is supplied onto a surface of the wafer facing the spin chuck at a flow rate sufficient to displace the wafer upwardly into contact with the head portions of the pins. This serves to clamp the wafer against the head portions of the pins. However, the pins contact the wafer only on upwardly oriented wafer surfaces and the wafer is supported from below solely by the gas flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: LAM RESEARCH AGInventors: Kei KINOSHITA, Philipp ENGESSER
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Publication number: 20130125380Abstract: The invention relates to a device for securing solar cells to glass surfaces, the securing device comprising a film of encapsulation material containing a plurality of holes and troughs in the film surface. Solar cells disposed on the film can be secured to a glass surface as a result of a vacuum being generated in the troughs and holes. The invention also relates to a method for securing solar cells in solar module production.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventor: Harry Wirth
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Publication number: 20130125379Abstract: A device for processing wafer-shaped articles, comprises a chuck adapted to receive a wafer shaped article, and a collector surrounding the chuck. The collector comprises a base and a plurality of divider walls, as well as a plurality of nested partitions surrounding the chuck. Each of the plurality of nested partitions is positioned on a corresponding one of the plurality of divider walls, and each of the plurality of nested partitions is vertically movable so as to define a plurality of separate process regions within the collector depending on the vertical position of each of the plurality of nested partitions. At least one of the divider walls comprises an internal exhaust conduit communicating with an exhaust duct underlying the divider wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: LAM RESEARCH AGInventors: Ante PLAZONIC, Christian AUFEGGER, Reinhold SCHWARZENBACHER
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Publication number: 20130127105Abstract: A manufacturing system includes a configurable positioning apparatus and machining system for processing a workpiece retained by the positioning apparatus. The positioning apparatus has different configurations for retaining different types of workpieces, such as panels, fuselages, airfoil skins, and engine housings. The positioning apparatus includes a first support rail and a second support rail spaced apart from the first support rail. The first and second support rails support a plurality of stackable headers that cooperate to position the workpiece. The headers have adjustable heights along their lengths in order to accommodate the shape of the workpiece.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2012Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: FLOW INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventor: FLOW INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
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Publication number: 20130105420Abstract: A modular assembly for supporting fiber optic splices includes a tray, cradle, and splice holder. The tray includes a floor, a depression in the floor, and a tab that extends outward from a depression sidewall into the depression. The cradle includes a base configured to be seated in the depression. The cradle base has a first face positioned away from a bottom of the depression and an opposite second face positioned towards the depression bottom when the cradle base is seated in the depression. The cradle base also includes a shelf recessed into the first face at the first side of the cradle base, and positioned between the depression bottom and the tab when the cradle base is seated in the depression. A splice holder is mounted to the first face of the cradle base and defines a plurality of fiber optic splice slots positioned over the depression.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: ALL SYSTEMS BROADBAND, INC.Inventors: Craig Dwayne Ray, Timothy W. Dexter
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Publication number: 20130104381Abstract: It is described a clamping system (30) of special conductors (S1, S2, S3) for a stator or rotor bar winding (U1, S1, S2, S3) for an electric machine, such as connection terminals (S1), jumpers (S2), neutrals or star points (S3), etc. The system (30) allows the special conductors (S1, S2, S3) to be clamped during a twisting step and/or a step of picking up such conductors from a twisting device (250). The system comprises a system axis (T-T), a plurality of grippers (10) aligned or able to be aligned along a circumference lying on a plane substantially perpendicular to the system axis (T-T) and actuation elements (50, 60, 70, 80, 90) of the grippers (10). Each gripper includes a pair of jaws (32, 33) mounted so as to be mobile in a plane transversal to said system axis (T-T).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2010Publication date: May 2, 2013Inventor: Sante Guercioni