Rotary Electronic Component Flipper for Live Bug Dead Bug Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the semiconductor industry, there is a need for a flexible and efficient method to change the orientation of electronic components from 'live bug' to 'dead bug' or vice versa during automated handling processes, especially in integrated systems that combine multiple operations like testing, inspection, and packing within a single system.
Innovation Solution
A rotary device with a force actuator and driving mechanism is used to receive, flip, and eject electronic components, allowing for a simple and high-speed change in orientation between 'live bug' and 'dead bug' configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a rotary turret based handling system is used to integrate multiple semiconductor backend processes, then productivity and automation are improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flipping function is segmented as a separate, dedicated mechanism rather than being integrated into the main rotary turret system. This allows the flipping operation to be performed by a simple, standalone apparatus that can be independently controlled and positioned at any station on the rotary table, reducing the overall system complexity while maintaining high automation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
A simple rotary device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the turret pick head and the electronic component. This intermediary flipping mechanism receives the component from the upstream process, performs the orientation change, and returns the component to the pick-up position, thereby enabling the complex integrated system to handle orientation changes without adding significant complexity to the main rotary turret architecture.
2Device complexity
If a simple flipping mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the speed of orientation change may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The flipping mechanism employs a rotary device that can be dynamically positioned and operated at high speeds. The rotary device is coupled to a driving mechanism that enables rapid rotation, allowing the simple flipping mechanism to achieve high-speed orientation changes without sacrificing speed for complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex multi-mechanism flipping systems with a simple rotary device driven by a motor. This substitution of mechanical systems enables high-speed operation through electromagnetic drive rather than complex mechanical linkages, achieving both simplicity and speed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If components are flipped in an integrated system, then adaptability is improved, but the risk of component damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flipping mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-controlled, with the rotary device automatically positioning and flipping components without requiring complex external intervention. This self-service approach reduces the risk of human error and external damage while maintaining high adaptability for different component orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The force actuator applies controlled biasing force to engage the electronic component with the rotary device before flipping occurs. This beforehand cushioning ensures the component is securely held and properly positioned, preventing damage during the high-speed flipping operation while maintaining adaptability for different component types and orientations.
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
Enables flexible and efficient orientation change of electronic components within integrated semiconductor backend processes, enhancing the automation and integration of handling systems by providing a high-speed station for flipping components.
Implementation Method 1
a force actuator operative to bias the electronic component into engagement with the rotary device
Implementation Method 2
a driving mechanism coupled to the rotary device that is operative to rotate said rotary device for changing the orientation of the electronic component
Implementation Method 3
an ejector for ejecting the electronic component from the rotary device after changing the orientation of the electronic component
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method is provided for flipping electronic components in the sense of changing their orientation, such as for changing the orientation of electronic components between ‘live bug’ and ‘dead bug’ orientations. The apparatus comprises a rotary device that is configured to receive the electronic component and a force actuator operative to bias the electronic component into engagement with the rotary device. A driving mechanism coupled to the rotary device is operative to rotate said rotary device for changing the orientation of the electronic component, after which an ejector is used to eject the electronic component from the rotary device after changing the orientation of the electronic component.