Grounded Tubing Connector Bracket for Reliable Static Charge Dispersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid handling systems in the semiconductor industry face challenges with electrostatic discharge (ESD) due to static charge buildup, which can damage sensitive substrates and components, and existing conductive components like cable ties are prone to deterioration and instability.
Innovation Solution
A conductive bracket is introduced to connect and ground tubing connectors in fluid handling systems, utilizing a conductively-filled fluoropolymer with materials like carbon fiber and graphite, equipped with a clamp portion for secure attachment and a grounding fixture to effectively transfer electrostatic charges to ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conductive cable ties are used to ground components, then ESD mitigation is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to creep, movement, breakage, and deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the disposable cable tie with a permanent conductive bracket that is integrated into the fluid handling system. The bracket is designed to remain in place indefinitely, eliminating the need for replacement and providing long-term reliable grounding without the deterioration issues of polymeric cable ties.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive bracket is made from conductively-filled fluoropolymer, combining the chemical resistance and non-stick properties of fluoropolymer with the electrical conductivity provided by carbon fiber or graphite fillers. This composite material provides both mechanical durability and electrical grounding capability.
2Reliability
If metal or conductive components are grounded to mitigate static charge buildup, then ESD events are reduced, but component stability deteriorates due to movement and breakage of grounding connections
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive bracket merges the grounding function with the structural support function. The bracket is permanently attached to both the conductive component and the ground, creating a stable, integrated grounding solution that eliminates movement and maintains consistent electrical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive bracket is designed to maintain its own grounding connection through its rigid structure and permanent attachment mechanisms, without requiring external adjustment or maintenance. The clamp portion self-adjusts to fit different component sizes while maintaining stable contact.
3Ease of operation
If polymeric cable ties are used for grounding, then ease of installation is improved, but durability worsens due to environmental sensitivity and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive bracket uses conductively-filled fluoropolymer that combines the ease of installation characteristics of polymers with the environmental resistance of fluoropolymer materials. The carbon fiber or graphite fillers provide conductivity while the fluoropolymer matrix provides chemical and environmental stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved reliability and stability in reducing ESD events, protecting sensitive components and preventing damage by ensuring continuous dispersion of static charges through a secure and reliable grounding mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a conductive bracket configured to attach and interface with the connector body to electrically connect the connector body to ground
Implementation Method 2
a clamp portion that interfaces with the connector body and selectively tightens to attach the bracket to the connector body
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides electrostatic discharge (ESD) mitigation devices. In one or more embodiments, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) mitigation device is a tubing connector to connect two or more conductive tubing segments in a fluid circuit, the tubing connector including an electrically conductive connector body with two or more attachment portions, two or more attachment fittings, and a conductive bracket configured to attach and interface with the connector body to electrically connect the connector body to ground.