Panel Alignment Apparatus Using Image Detection and Peripheral Clamping

The patent introduces an intermediary clamp mechanism that directly contacts the panel's peripheral non-displaying region to hold and position the panel. This clamp acts as a mediator between the positioning system and the panel, providing stable support without the high friction and positioning errors associated with rollers. The clamp's direct contact point on the peripheral region allows for precise positioning while avoiding the harmful friction effects.

The patent applies local quality by selectively contacting only the peripheral non-displaying region of the panel with the clamp, while leaving the active display region untouched. This localized contact approach secures the panel for positioning without applying harmful friction to the sensitive display area, thereby preventing dead pixels and maintaining panel quality.

The clamp serves as a solid intermediary mechanism that replaces the sucker system. Instead of using suckers that require high flatness and generate particles, the clamp provides direct mechanical contact with the peripheral region, achieving positioning without particle contamination. The clamp's robust design eliminates the flatness requirements and particle generation issues inherent in sucker-based systems.

The patent segments the clamping function into a modular design where the clamp can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows for easier maintenance and repair, as individual clamp components can be serviced without affecting the entire positioning system. The modular approach maintains positioning stability while simplifying maintenance operations.