Mask Box Buckling Structure for IC Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mask boxes for integrated circuit manufacturing have complex locking mechanisms made of different materials, leading to increased production time and cost, as well as environmental concerns due to non-recyclable parts.
Innovation Solution
A mask box with a buckling structure featuring a base, cover, and plastic buckling elements with elastic arms that integrate an engaging block and a curved elastic arm, eliminating the need for metallic springs and simplifying assembly by using the same material for all parts, thus reducing production costs and facilitating recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking modules with multiple components (supporting stand, locking arm, restoring spring) are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases and production cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the supporting stand, locking arm, and restoring spring into a single integrated locking module. This merging of components simplifies the assembly structure, reduces the number of parts, and eliminates the need for complex assembly steps while maintaining the locking function. The integrated module is made from a single piece of material, further simplifying manufacturing and assembly processes.
2Reliability
If conventional locking modules with multiple materials (plastic and metallic) are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the recyclability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the same material (plastic) for all components of the locking module, including the supporting stand, locking arm, and restoring spring. This homogeneity in material selection enables the entire locking module to be recycled together as a single material type, improving environmental sustainability and ease of manufacturing while maintaining the required locking function.
3Reliability
If conventional locking modules with multiple components are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the production time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into a single integrated locking module, which significantly reduces assembly time and simplifies the manufacturing process. This integration allows for more efficient production, lower manufacturing costs, and faster assembly while maintaining the locking function's reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
By using the same material throughout the locking module, the patent simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material handling complexity, and enables more efficient production methods. This homogeneity contributes to reduced production time and lower costs while maintaining functional reliability.
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 buckling structure simplifies assembly, reduces production costs, and conforms to environmental protection standards by using plastic materials for all parts, enhancing the mask box's cleanliness and efficiency in preventing contamination.
Implementation Method 1
the engaging block returns to buckle into the trough by means of the elastic restoring force of the at least one elastic arm
Data Source
AI summary
A mask box having a buckling structure includes a base, a cover and a plurality of buckling elements. The base is configured to support a mask and has a plurality of troughs. The cover covers the base and has a plurality of pivotal portions. The buckling elements are positioned to correspond to the troughs. Each buckling element includes an engaging block and an elastic arm connected to the pivotal portion. The engaging block moves away from the periphery of the cover when the engaging block is subjected to an external force. The engaging block is buckled into the trough via an elastic restoring force of the at least one elastic arm when the external force is removed. By this arrangement, the assembly of the buckling elements is simplified and its product cost is reduced. Further, the present invention conforms to the requirements for environmental protection.