System and method for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the field of semiconductors, and more particularly to a system (1) and method (1300) for transporting and inspecting semiconductor packages. More particularly, the present invention relates to a post-sealing inspection system (1) and method (1300) for performing automated transport of semiconductor packages for an inspection process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the field of semiconductors, and more particularly to systems and methods for transporting and inspecting semiconductor packages. More particularly, the present invention relates to a post-sealing inspection system and method for automatically transporting semiconductor packages for inspection. Background Art

[0002] Electronic components, such as semiconductor devices, components, parts, units, chips, integrated circuits, etc., undergo a manufacturing process, are then tested and visually inspected for appearance and electrical characteristics, and are then individually packaged and shipped. In this case, the packaging containers in which the electronic components are individually packaged are used to prevent physical damage (such as damage to the electronic components due to external impact) and electrical damage due to static electricity, etc.

[0003] The packaging container may be in the form of a carrier tape, in which the electronic components are packaged, mounted on the carrier tape at regular intervals, attached or sealed with a transparent cover tape, and then shipped on a roll. Before shipping the sealed carrier tape, some of the plurality of electronic components to be mounted may be defective, and therefore it is necessary to inspect the electronic components for defects.

[0004] Conventional carrier tape inspection devices used to inspect such carrier tapes perform a process of inspecting electronic components mid-process by simultaneously unwinding the carrier tape from a supply reel on one side and wrapping the unwound tape around a take-up reel on the other side, then inspecting the electronic components mid-process. However, this conventional inspection process requires the operator to perform additional work or manual labor to manually attach the leading end of the carrier tape from the supply reel to the tape guide rail or to manually attach the leading end of the carrier tape to a dummy reel after inspection. When the operator must perform such attachment, the inspection process is halted, the carrier tape's conveying speed is limited to a predetermined speed, and packaging the inspected carrier tape onto the take-up reel is hampered, thereby reducing productivity.

[0005] On the other hand, such manual attaching work further delays the entire process since replacing the supply reel and the dummy reel after the carrier tape has been inspected inevitably affects productivity, which requires relatively longer working time to perform one reel inspection.

[0006] Therefore, such manual attaching work results in low productivity, wasted labor, and poor work convenience.

[0007] In addition, the traditional inspection system for carrier tape needs to add a simulated reel or packaging reel on the other side of the system to collect or wind the inspected carrier tape. The empty supply reel now requires additional unloading work, processing work, such as relabeling, remarking, checking the reel and winding the carrier tape before winding the subsequent carrier tape. These processes have once again delayed production and caused poor inventory management. In addition, in the traditional inspection system, it is necessary to replace the simulated reel because the width of the simulated reel is not adjustable and can only be compatible with or suitable for fixed-size carrier tapes, thereby causing inconvenience when checking carrier tapes of various sizes.

[0008] Therefore, it would be advantageous to alleviate the above disadvantages by having the following disclosure herein, in particular having a system and method for conveying and inspecting a carrier tape for inspection, which is capable of inspecting and detecting defects on electronic components contained in the carrier tape, inspecting the quality of the sealing line of the cover tape after the components have been sealed with the cover tape in the carrier tape, and detecting defects on the carrier tape, thereby automatically conveying the carrier tape within the system without the need for additional manual work. Summary of the Invention

[0009] It is therefore a primary object of the present invention to provide a system and method for transferring and inspecting at least one semiconductor package.

[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a post-sealing inspection system and method that inspects and detects defects on electronic components contained within a carrier tape.

[0011] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a post-seal inspection system and method that inspects and detects the quality of the seal line of a cover tape after components have been sealed by a cover tape in a carrier tape or by a seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape.

[0012] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a post-sealing inspection system and method that inspects and detects defects on carrier tape.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a post-sealing inspection system and method that can automatically guide or attach a carrier tape from a reel module to an inspection station without requiring manual attachment work.

[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a system and method involving the automatic transfer of carrier tapes without the need for manual attachment work.

[0015] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a post-sealing inspection system and method wherein no take-up reel is required because the carrier tape loaded from the supply reel will be reloaded back to the supply reel after inspection.

[0016] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a post-sealing inspection system and method that provides a multi-track inspection circuit.

[0017] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a system and method having a supply reel that acts as a take-up reel or packaging reel, wherein the carrier tape is wound back onto the supply reel.

[0018] Other objects of the present invention will become apparent by understanding the following detailed description of the invention or by using the invention in actual practice.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is stipulated as follows:

[0020] A system for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages, comprising:

[0021] at least one feeder reel module located on one side of the system and adapted to mount at least one supply reel on which a semiconductor package is wound;

[0022] at least one carrier track module for receiving the semiconductor package dispensed from the feeder reel module and transferring the semiconductor package;

[0023] at least one inspection module disposed at a position proximal to the carrier track module;

[0024] It is characterized by

[0025] The system further includes at least one first arm module located at the other side of the system and configured to wrap the semiconductor packages transferred from the carrier track module and rewrap the wrapped semiconductor packages to the inspection module for inspection before the inspected semiconductor packages are wrapped back to the feeder reel module, wherein the wrapping and rewrap processes are automatically performed using an automated device.

[0026] In another embodiment of the present invention, it is provided as follows:

[0027] A method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package comprises the following steps:

[0028] (i) dispensing semiconductor packages (1310) from a supply reel (R);

[0029] (ii) transferring the semiconductor package from the supply reel (R) to the track (51) (1330);

[0030] (iii) transferring the semiconductor package from the track (51) to a temporary take-up reel (71) (1350);

[0031] Characterized in that the method (1300) further comprises the following steps:

[0032] (iv) winding the semiconductor package onto a temporary take-up reel (71) (1370);

[0033] (v) rewinding the wound semiconductor package from the temporary take-up reel (71) back to the supply reel (R) (1390) via a track (51); wherein the semiconductor package undergoes an inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11) during the rewinding process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after studying the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1-A and 1-B Exemplary perspective and front views of a system for conveying and inspecting carrier tapes according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0036] Figure 2-A and 2-B An exemplary path of a carrier tape from one side of the system to the other is shown.

[0037] Figures 3-A to 3-D An exemplary first arm module of the system is shown in perspective, front, and top views.

[0038] Figures 4-A to 4-D A portion of a first arm module of the system is shown in front view, perspective view, exploded view and cross-sectional view, respectively.

[0039] Figure 5 An illustrative example of the front end of the carrier tape is shown.

[0040] Figures 6-A to 6-B Another portion of the first arm module of the system is shown in perspective and exploded views, respectively.

[0041] Figures 7-A to 7-B Another portion of the first arm module of the system is shown in front view and perspective view, respectively.

[0042] Figures 8-A to 8-B Another portion of the first arm module of the system is shown in perspective view.

[0043] Figure 9 An exemplary inspection module of the system is shown.

[0044] Figures 10-A to 10-D An exemplary operation of the system according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0045] Figure 11 Another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0046] Figure 12 Another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0047] Figure 13An exemplary method flow according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, steps, and / or components have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0049] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of embodiments thereof, which are given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings which are not drawn to scale.

[0050] As used in this disclosure and the claims appended hereto, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates or indicates otherwise.

[0051] Throughout the disclosure and claims of this specification, the word "include" and variations of the word, such as "have" and "comprising," mean "including but not limited to," and are not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers, or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of..." and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. "For example" is not used in a limiting sense, but for explanatory purposes.

[0052] Figure 1-A and 1-B An exemplary perspective view and a front view of a system (1) for conveying and inspecting at least one semiconductor package according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention are shown. The term "semiconductor package" referred to throughout this document refers to a carrier tape, wherein the carrier tape may or may not contain electronic components. Therefore, the inspection area of ​​the system (1) includes, but is not limited to: inspection of the carrier tape (C), the electronic components sealed within the carrier tape (if the carrier tape (C) contains electronic components), the cover tape sealing the carrier tape, the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape, or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C) so that corrective measures can be taken before the electronic components are shipped to the end user.

[0053] The term "electronic component" mentioned throughout this specification includes, but is not limited to, semiconductor devices, components, parts, units, chips, and integrated circuits.

[0054] The system (1) for conveying and inspecting at least one semiconductor package, in particular a carrier tape (C), comprises at least one feeder reel module (3), at least one carrier track module (5), at least one first arm module (7), at least one tape guide bridge module (9) and at least one inspection module (11) (e.g. Figure 10-C shown).

[0055] The feeder reel module (3) of the system (1) is positioned or located on one side of the system (1) for mounting at least one supply reel or input reel (R) wound with semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tape (C), wherein the supply reel or input reel (R) is inserted into a mandrel or reel shaft (31) of the feeder reel module (3). The carrier tape (C) wound on the supply reel or input reel (R) preferably contains electronic components. Although it is preferred that the system (1) transports and inspects carrier tapes (C) containing electronic components, it is also conceivable that the system (1) can be used to transport and inspect empty carrier tapes (C) when the system (1) deems it appropriate. The feeder reel module (3) further comprises at least one reel plate (33) coupled to the reel shaft (31) for placing or loading at least one input reel or supply reel wound with a carrier tape, whereby when the input reel or supply reel (R) is placed in the reel shaft (31), the input reel or supply reel (R) is fastened and held on the reel shaft (31) by the tabs (31a). In particular, the positioning holes of the carrier tape engage with the tabs (31a) of the reel shaft (31), thereby stabilizing the position of the supply reel or input reel in the reel shaft (31) of the feeder reel module (31). The feeder reel module (3) further comprises at least one buffer roller (35) positioned proximal to the reel plate (33) and the reel shaft (31) to facilitate dispensing the carrier tape (C) from the supply reel or input reel (R), and in particular for conveying and routing the carrier tape (C) to the carrier track module (5) so as to keep the carrier tape (C) in tension during the winding process. The front end of the carrier tape (C) can be manually routed to the buffer roller (35) and into the carrier track module (5) by an operator or user. Figure 2-A The path of the carrier tape (C) from the supply reel or input reel to the buffer roller (35) and then to the carrier track module (5) is shown. It is envisioned that the insertion of the carrier tape (C) into the buffer roller (35) and the carrier track module (5) can also be done automatically. It is also envisioned that in one embodiment the buffer roller (35) may not be included, whereby the carrier tape (C) will be inserted directly from the supply reel or input reel (R) into the carrier track module (5) manually or automatically. The feeder reel module (3) also includes at least one motor assembly (37) which is coupled to the other end of the reel shaft for allowing rotational movement of the reel shaft (31) so that the input reel or supply reel (R) can be rotated to unwind or dispense the carrier tape (C).

[0056] The carrier track module (5) of the system (1) is preferably arranged between the feeder reel module (3) and the first arm module (7), wherein the carrier track module is configured to transfer or transport the carrier tape (C) from one location to another location, in particular for receiving the carrier tape (C) dispensed or loaded from the supply reel (R) mounted on the feeder reel module (3) in one embodiment or dispensed or loaded from the buffer roller (35) in another embodiment, and then transferring the carrier tape (C) to the first arm module (7). Preferably, the carrier track module (5) includes a track (51) which is operated by a pulley, drive roller, drum or sprocket (not shown) located below or under the track (51), wherein the pulley, drum or sprocket is powered and can therefore propel, move or pull the track (51) forward or backward. Alternatively, the carrier track module (5) may be a belt conveyor system including a pulley having a closed loop of a carrier medium, whereby the conveyor belt rotates around the pulley, thereby propelling or moving the carrier tape (C) forward or backward when the carrier tape (C) is received on the track. Preferably, the carrier track module (5) further includes a plurality of sensors (53) along the track (51) to detect whether the carrier tape (C) is present at an entrance or exit of the track (51), wherein the track (51) is actuated or started when the front end of the carrier tape (C) is inserted into the track (51); in order to detect the smoothness of the carrier tape conveying on the track (51); or in order to detect defects of the carrier tape (C) being conveyed on the track (51).

[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the width of the track (51) of the carrier track module (5) is adjustable according to the size of the carrier tape (C), wherein the width of the track (51) is initially preset by an operator or user using at least one controller module (15) according to the expected size of the carrier tape (C) before using the system (1). Alternatively, it is conceivable that when an incoming carrier tape (C) is received on the track (51), the width of the track (51) is automatically adjusted to the size of the carrier tape (C), thereby firmly positioning the carrier tape (C) on the track (51).

[0058] The first arm module (7) of the system (1) is located on the other side of the system (1) and is used to wind the carrier tape into the first arm module (7) after it is dispensed from the feeder reel module (3) and transferred from the carrier track module (5); the wound carrier tape is then rewound back to the carrier track module (5) and the inspection module (11) for inspection before being wound back to the supply reel or input reel (R), wherein the winding and rewinding processes are automatically performed using an automation device that will be discussed in detail later. Figure 2-B The path of the carrier tape (C) from the carrier tape track module (5) to the first arm module (7) is shown.

[0059] Figures 3-A to 3-D A close-up and detailed view of a first arm module (7) is shown. The first arm module (7) of the system (1) includes at least one temporary take-up drum (71), the temporary take-up drum including: at least one first drum plate (71a) having a through hole (710); at least one second drum plate (71b) having a through hole (730), wherein the through hole (730) of the second drum plate (71b) faces substantially parallel to the through hole (710) of the first drum plate (71a); and at least one rotation module (73) disposed between the first drum plate (71a) and the second drum plate (71b).

[0060] Figures 4-A to 4-D An exemplary embodiment of a rotating module (73) is shown in a top view, a perspective view, an exploded view, and a cross-sectional view, respectively. The rotating module (73) includes at least one rotating shaft (74), one end portion (74a) of which is coupled to at least one rotating drum (75), wherein the rotating drum (75) includes a first cylindrical body (75a), the first cylindrical body including: at least one insertion groove (750) on its surface or circumference for inserting a carrier tape (C). The rotating module (73) also includes at least one concave member (75b), which is defined as a clamp for clamping the front end of the carrier tape (C), including at least one insertion groove (752), wherein the concave member (75b) is located below the first cylindrical body (75a) and is formed with the same curvature radius as the first cylindrical body (75a), thereby having a substantially similar curvature. Alternatively, a second cylindrical body (not shown) can be used, whereby it is coaxially surrounded by the first cylindrical body (75a). Figure 5 An example of the front end of the carrier tape before it is inserted into the rotating module (73) is shown. The rotating module (73) further includes at least one rotating cylinder (76) positioned inside the rotating drum (75) and coupled to the concave member (75b) for driving the clamping or rotational movement of the concave member (75b). The rotating module (73) further includes at least one auxiliary rotating module (77), which is a rotating joint coupled to the other end of the rotating drum (75) to provide a seal between a fluid supply channel (e.g., a pipe or pipeline) (not shown) and the rotating cylinder (76), thereby allowing fluid to flow into and / or out of the rotating cylinder (76), thereby enabling the rotational movement of the concave member (75b).

[0061] The first arm module (7) further comprises at least one motor assembly (79) coupled to the rotating shaft (74) at the other end (74b) for actuating the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the rotating shaft (74), thereby enabling the rotating drum (75) and the concave member (75b) to rotate.

[0062] Referring to the same drawings, the first cylinder (75a) and the insertion grooves (750, 752) of the concave member (75b) preferably include insertion grooves (750, 752) of different sizes to adapt to or be compatible with carriers of corresponding sizes. When the first cylinder (75a) and the insertion grooves (750, 752) of the concave member (75b) are arranged in parallel to receive the front end of the carrier (C), the front end of the carrier can be inserted into the first arm module (7), particularly the rotation module (73), and when the concave member (75b) is rotated or actuated by the rotating cylinder (76) and the rotating joint (77) to shift from the parallel position so that the insertion groove (752) of the concave member (75b) shifts from the insertion groove (750) of the first cylinder (75a) to clamp the front end of the carrier (C), the front end of the carrier (C) can be fastened or clamped in the insertion grooves (750, 752). Once the front end of the carrier tape (C) is clamped in the rotating module (73), the carrier tape (C) can be wound onto the temporary take-up reel (71) when the rotating module (73) is rotated by the motor assembly (79) and by the rotating cylinder (76) and the auxiliary rotating module (77).

[0063] Figure 6-A and 6-B An exemplary motor assembly (79) is shown in perspective and exploded views, respectively, wherein the motor assembly (79) includes at least one stepper motor (79a), at least one shaft coupler (79b), one end (79c) of the shaft coupler being connected to the stepper motor (79a), and the other end (79d) of the shaft coupler being connected to at least one motor bearing (79e), which is configured to be mounted on a rotating shaft (74) for driving or allowing rotational movement of the rotating shaft (74). The motor assembly (79) also includes a clutch housing or bracket (79f) surrounding the shaft coupler (79b) for protecting the stepper motor (79a) and the shaft coupler (79b).

[0064] Return Reference Figure 1-A 、 1-B , 3-B and refer to Figure 7-A and 7-B The first arm module (7) further comprises at least one support arm assembly (81), the first end portion (81a) of the support arm assembly being attachable to the equipment, machine or workbench or the carrier track module (5) on which the guide bridge module (9) or the system (1) is located, and the second end portion (81b) of the support arm assembly being connected to the reel plate (71a, 71b) to support and hold the first arm module (7), thereby allowing the first arm module (7) to be lifted. The support arm assembly (81) comprises at least one through hole (81c) proximal to the second end portion (81b) thereof for inserting the motor assembly (79) and / or the rotating shaft (74), thereby firmly supporting and holding the first arm module (7) and lifting the first arm module (7).

[0065] Return Reference Figure 3-A and 3-B , the support arm assembly also includes at least one pair of width-adjustable members (82). The width-adjustable members (82) include: at least one first member (820), the first end (820a) of the first member being attached to one side of the track (51) and the second end (820b) of the first member being attached to the first roll plate (71a); and at least one second member (830), the first end (830a) of the second member being attached to the other side of the track (51) and the second end (830b) of the second member being attached to the second roll plate (71b). In this embodiment, the width of the adjustable track (51) widened or narrowed relative to the size of the carrier tape (C) allows the corresponding widths of the first arm (810) and the second arm (830) to be widened or narrowed, thereby allowing the first roll plate (71a) and the second roll plate (71b) to be adjusted accordingly and correspondingly. It is contemplated that the rotating drum (75) and the insertion slots (750, 752) of the concave member (75b) will rotate to a tape receiving position having the correct or appropriate insertion slots (750, 752) corresponding to the size of the incoming tape (C).

[0066] See also Figure 8-A and 8-B The first arm module (7) further comprises at least one positioning sensor (83) connected to one end of the rotation shaft (73), wherein the positioning sensor (83) is preferably a photoelectric sensor for determining or detecting the distance, absence or presence of the carrier tape. Preferably, the positioning sensor (83) is used as a feedback mechanism for the controller module of the system, whereby the sensor (83) sends a signal or feedback to the controller module regarding the positioning status of the carrier tape (C) during winding and the rewinding of the carrier tape (C) into / from the first arm module (7).

[0067] Return Reference Figure 1-A and 1-B The first arm module (7) further includes at least one support mounting member (85) which mounts the first mandrel plate (71a) and the second mandrel plate (71b) together at their circumferences so that each mandrel plate (71a, 71b) is idle and stable during the winding and rewinding process of the carrier tape, thereby minimizing vibration of each mandrel plate (71a, 71b) and improving the smoothness of the winding and rewinding process. In this regard, it should be noted that during the winding and rewinding of the carrier tape around the temporary take-up reel (71), the temporary take-up reel (71) is idle and does not rotate.

[0068] Return Reference Figure 1-A and 1-B, the tape guide bridge module (9) of the system (1) is arranged between the carrier track module (5) and the first arm module (7), and the first arm module is configured to facilitate the automatic transfer of the carrier tape from the carrier track module (5) to the first arm module (7). The tape guide bridge module (9) of the system (1) is an automated device of the system, which performs the automatic transfer of the carrier tape (C) between the first arm module (7) and the carrier track module (5). This solves a major problem faced by conventional inspection systems, thereby alleviating the manual tape attachment work. As Figure 3-C and 3-D As further shown, the tape guide bridge module (9) includes at least one bridge (91) connecting the track (51) of the carrier track module (5) and the temporary take-up reel (71) of the first arm module (7), wherein the carrier tape (C) is automatically transferred to the bridge (91) and then inserted into the temporary take-up reel (71) as it moves. The bridge (91) is extendable and narrowable in width, wherein the width of the bridge (91) is adjustable according to the size of the carrier tape (C). It is conceivable that a plurality of sensors are provided on the near side of the bridge (91) to further detect the presence, size and width of the carrier tape entering from the track (51), thereby enabling the bridge (91) to adjust its width accordingly to the width of the carrier tape, even though the size of the carrier tape (C) has been initially preset by the operator. The bridge (91) will first remain in its standby position before receiving the carrier tape, and when the incoming carrier tape (C) is detected, the bridge (91) will automatically adjust to the width of the carrier tape (C) to smoothly transfer the carrier tape (C) to the temporary take-up reel (71). When the front end of the carrier tape (C) is clamped by the insertion grooves (750, 752) of the first cylinder (75a) and the concave member (75b), the bridge (91) will return to its standby position to achieve a smooth winding process of the carrier tape (C) on the temporary take-up reel (71) while the rotating shaft (74) is rotated by the motor assembly (79). It should be noted that during the winding process or when the rotating module (73) is rotated by the motor assembly, the temporary take-up reel (71) does not rotate.

[0069] refer to Figure 9, the inspection module (11) of the system (1) is arranged at a position near the carrier track module (5), preferably, the inspection module (11) can be arranged above or below the carrier track module (5). The inspection module (11) includes a visual or lighting system (111), such as an optical device, a lamp, a camera, a light, an imaging mechanism, etc., which is configured to inspect the carrier (C), the electronic components contained in the carrier (C), the cover tape that seals the carrier (C), and the seal between the cover tape and the carrier (C). The inspection module (11) can be implemented in hardware, software, or an appropriate combination of hardware and software, and can be an inspection platform with a programmable software system. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the carrier (C) is transferred from the feeder reel module (3) to the first arm module (7) on the track (51), the inspection module (11) remains in a standby position and does not inspect the carrier (C). When the carrier tape (C) is wound onto the temporary take-up reel (71) of the first arm module (7), the rear end of the carrier tape (C) does not wind onto the temporary take-up reel (71) and remains on the track (51) of the carrier track module (5). The track (51) and the rotation axis (74) are then rotated in opposite directions to rewind the carrier tape (C) back to the feeder reel module (3). During the rewinding process, the inspection module (11) moves to its inspection position and inspects the carrier tape (C) from its rear end to detect whether there are any defects. In other words, the inspection process starts from the rear end of the carrier tape (C) and only starts when the carrier tape is rewound from the first arm module (7) to the feeder reel module (3). It should be noted that the temporary take-up reel (71) does not rotate during the rewinding process.

[0070] Alternatively, it is envisaged that the inspection module (11) may be configured to move to its inspection position to inspect the carrier tape while it moves from the feeder reel module (3) to the first arm module (7), thereby providing a double or dual inspection of the carrier tape (C).

[0071] Figure 10-A 、 10-B , 10-C and 10-D illustrate exemplary operations of the system (1) as described above, particularly transferring the carrier tape (C) from the feeder reel module (3) to the first arm module (7) via the carrier tape track module (5) and the tape guide bridge module (9), and transferring the carrier tape from the first arm module (7) back to the feeder reel module (3) via the tape guide bridge module (9) and the carrier tape track module (5). In particular, the rear end portion of the carrier tape (C) is not wound into the first arm module (7), but remains on the track (51) to be inspected by the inspection module (11) and then wound back to the feeder reel module (3).

[0072] It can be inferred that the carrier tape (C) dispensed from the supply reel or input reel (R) will be finally packaged back to the supply reel or input reel (R) after the carrier tape (C) is wound in the first arm module (7), rewound out from the first arm module (7), and inspected by the inspection module (11). In other words, the feeder reel module (3) serves as a collection reel module, wherein the supply reel or input reel (R) is a take-up reel or packaging reel.

[0073] In another embodiment of the present invention, multiple systems (1) can be provided to increase or improve productivity. Figure 10-D and 11 As shown, dual systems (1) can be provided in the equipment to improve productivity. It is conceivable that multiple systems (1) can be set up in the equipment or cabinet (13) where the system (1) is located. In this embodiment, it is conceivable that any number of inspection modules (11) can be used, wherein the inspection modules (11) can be shared to inspect the carrier tapes of each system (1) in turn. When the inspection module (11) detects that the first system (1 n ) of the carrier, the second system (1 n+1 ) is sequenced to transfer the carrier tape to the second system (1 n+1 ) of the first arm module, and vice versa. n ) When the inspection is completed, the inspection module (11) is coordinated to move to the second system (1 n+1 Alternatively, each system (1) may have its own checking module (11).

[0074] Now refer to Figure 12 It should be understood that the system (1) of the present invention may include at least one controller module (15) mounted on or connected to the system (1) for use by an operator to operate or control the system (1), such as preset requirement preferences, input carrier tape (C) dimensions, preset track (51) widths to correspond to carrier tape (C) dimensions, etc. The controller module (15) includes at least one input device, such as a user interface device, a monitor, a keyboard, for the operator to operate or manipulate the system (1). The controller module (15) is electrically or operatively coupled to the system (1) to perform its functions. It is contemplated that the system (1) may further include at least one electrical panel unit (not shown), the electrical panel unit including electrical modules or components configured to provide, supply, control or regulate power to each part of the system (1), thereby serving as a power supply system for the system (1).

[0075] In another embodiment of the present invention, the system (1) according to the present invention may further comprise at least one labelling or marking module (not shown) which is arranged proximal to the inspection module (11) to label or mark defective electronic components, defective sealing lines or defective grids of the carrier tape (C) before rewinding the carrier tape (C) back to the feeder reel module (3).

[0076] refer to Figure 13 , shows an exemplary method (1300) for transporting and inspecting a semiconductor package according to the present invention. The semiconductor package is a carrier tape (C) containing at least one electronic component or a carrier tape (C) containing no electronic component. A method (1300) for conveying and inspecting semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C), comprises the following steps: (i) dispensing semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C), from a supply reel (R) (1310); (ii) conveying the semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C), from the supply reel (R) to a track (51) (1330); (iii) conveying the semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C), from the track (51) to a temporary take-up reel (71) (1350); (iv) winding the semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C), into a temporary take-up reel (71) (1370), wherein a rear end portion of the semiconductor packages, in particular carrier tapes (C) is not wound into the temporary take-up reel (71) and remains on the track (51); and (v) rewinding the wound carrier tapes (C) from the temporary take-up reel (71) through the track (51) back to the supply reel (R) (1390). During step (iv) (1390), when the rear end of the semiconductor package, in particular the carrier tape (C), is rewound back onto the supply reel (R), the semiconductor package, in particular the carrier tape (C), undergoes an inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11).

[0077] Preferably, the winding process in step (iv) and the rewinding process in step (v) are automatically performed using an automated device. The automated device is a tape guide bridge module (9) configured to facilitate automatic transfer of semiconductor packages, particularly carrier tapes (C).

[0078] If the carrier tape (C) contains electronic components, the inspection area of ​​the inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11) includes but is not limited to inspecting the carrier tape (C), the cover tape sealing the carrier tape (C), the electronic components sealed in the carrier tape (C), the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape (C), or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C).

[0079] If the carrier tape (C) does not contain electronic components, the inspection area of ​​the inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11) includes but is not limited to inspecting the carrier tape (C), the cover tape sealing the carrier tape (C), the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape (C), or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C).

[0080] Although the present invention has been shown and described herein in terms of what are considered to be its preferred embodiments, illustrating the results and advantages achieved by the present invention over the prior art, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments. Therefore, the forms of the invention shown and described herein are intended to be illustrative only, and other embodiments may be selected without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The scope of the present invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Naturally, there are many alternative ways of configuring and implementing the present invention to suit a particular device and environment while providing differently designed biological results.

Claims

1. A system (1) for conveying and inspecting semiconductor packages, comprising: at least one feeder reel module (3) located on one side of the system (1) and used to mount at least one supply reel (R) wound with a semiconductor package; at least one carrier track module (5) for receiving the semiconductor package dispensed from the feeder reel module (3) and conveying the semiconductor package; at least one inspection module (11) disposed at a position proximal to the carrier track module (5); It is characterized in that The system (1) further comprises at least one first arm module (7) located at the other side of the system (1) and used for winding the semiconductor package conveyed from the carrier track module (5) and rewinding the wound semiconductor package to the inspection module (11), so as to inspect the semiconductor package starting from the rear end of the semiconductor package not wound to the first arm module (7) before the inspected semiconductor package is wound back to the feeder reel module (3), wherein the winding and rewinding processes are automatically performed using an automation device.

2. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 1, wherein The semiconductor package is a carrier tape (C) containing at least one electronic component or a carrier tape (C) without any electronic component.

3. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 2, wherein: The system further comprises at least one tape guide bridge module (9), which is arranged between the carrier track module (5) and the first arm module (7) for automatically guiding the carrier tape (C) from the carrier track module (5) to the first arm module (7).

4. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The first arm module (7) includes a temporary take-up reel (71), the temporary take-up reel including: at least one first reel plate (71a) having a through hole (710); a second reel plate (71b) having a through hole (730), the second reel plate facing the first reel plate (71a) in parallel; at least one rotation module (73), the rotation module being arranged between the first reel plate (71a) and the second reel plate (71b), wherein the rotation module (73) includes at least one rotation shaft (74), one end portion (74a) of the rotation shaft being connected to at least one rotation roller (75), and the other end portion (74b) of the rotation shaft being connected to at least one motor assembly (79) for actuating the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the rotation shaft (74).

5. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 4, wherein The rotating drum (75) includes: a first cylinder (75a) having at least one insertion groove (750) on its surface; and at least one concave member (75b) having at least one insertion groove (752), wherein the concave member (75b) is positioned below the first cylinder (75a) and is formed with the same curvature radius as the first cylinder (75a).

6. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 5, wherein When the first cylinder (75a) and the insertion grooves (750, 752) of the concave member (75b) are arranged in parallel to receive the front end of the carrier tape (C), the front end of the carrier tape (C) can be inserted into the rotating drum (75); When the concave member (75b) is rotated or actuated by the rotating cylinder (76) and shifted from the parallel position so that the insertion groove (752) of the concave member (75b) shifts from the insertion groove (750) of the first cylinder (75a) to clamp the front end of the carrier tape (C), the front end of the carrier tape (C) can be fastened or clamped in the insertion grooves (750, 752); and when the rotating module (73) rotates, the carrier tape (C) can be wound around the temporary take-up reel (71).

7. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 4, wherein: When the rotation module (73) is rotated by the motor assembly (79), the temporary take-up reel (71) does not rotate.

8. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 3, wherein The tape guide bridge module (9) comprises at least one adjustable bridge (91) which can automatically extend and narrow in width to correspond to carrier tapes (C) of different sizes.

9. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 2, wherein: The carrier track module (5) comprises at least one adjustable track (51), wherein the width of the track (51) is automatically and correspondingly adjusted according to the size of the carrier tape (C).

10. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 2, wherein If the carrier tape (C) contains electronic components, the inspection area of ​​the carrier tape (C) includes but is not limited to the inspection of the carrier tape, the electronic components sealed in the carrier tape, the cover tape sealing the carrier tape, the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape, or the packaging status of the carrier tape (C).

11. The system (1) for transferring and inspecting semiconductor packages according to claim 2, wherein If the carrier tape (C) does not contain electronic components, the inspection area of ​​the carrier tape (C) includes but is not limited to the inspection of the carrier tape, the cover tape that seals the carrier tape, the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape, or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C).

12. A method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package, comprising the steps of: (i) dispensing semiconductor packages (1310) from a supply reel (R); (ii) transferring the semiconductor package from the supply reel (R) to the track (51) (1330); (iii) transferring the semiconductor package from the track (51) to a temporary take-up reel (71) (1350); Characterized in that the method (1300) further comprises the following steps: (iv) winding the semiconductor package onto a temporary take-up reel (71) (1370); (v) rewinding the wound semiconductor package from a temporary take-up reel (71) back to a supply reel (R) (1390) via a track (51); wherein the semiconductor package undergoes an inspection process by at least one inspection module (11) from the unwound portion of the semiconductor package to the rear end of the temporary take-up reel (71) during the rewinding process.

13. The method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package according to claim 12, wherein: The winding process in step (iv) and the rewinding process in step (v) are automatically performed.

14. The method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The semiconductor package is a carrier tape (C) containing at least one electronic component or a carrier tape (C) not containing an electronic component.

15. The method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package according to claim 14, wherein: If the carrier tape (C) contains electronic components, the inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11) includes inspecting the carrier tape (C), the electronic components sealed in the carrier tape (C), the cover tape sealing the carrier tape (C), the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape (C), or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C).

16. The method (1300) for transferring and inspecting a semiconductor package according to claim 14, wherein: If the carrier tape (C) does not contain electronic components, the inspection process performed by at least one inspection module (11) includes inspecting the carrier tape (C), the cover tape sealing the carrier tape (C), the seal between the cover tape and the carrier tape (C), or the packaging state of the carrier tape (C).

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