Patent ID: 6228231
Filing Date: 2001-05-08
Classification: C25D

Abstract:
A fixture, comprising:a non-conductive frame member having a workpiece aperture for receiving a workpiece therein, said workpiece aperture having a central axis;current distribution means for providing an equally distributed electrical contact with an outer perimeter region of the workpiece, said current distribution means including a plurality of contacts extending toward said central axis;a thief electrode perimetrically disposed about said aperture and spaced a prescribed distance from said current distribution means by a gap region, said gap region including a conductive electroplating bath; whereinsaid current distribution means includes a solid conductive ring portion, wherein said plurality of contacts includes a plurality of equally spaced apart contacts disposed on a top surface of said conductive ring portion, said plurality of equally spaced apart contacts extending in directions toward a bottom surface of said conductive ring portion, andwherein said plurality of equally spaced apart contacts includes leaf springs, wherein each said leaf spring further includes a coil spring disposed along a length dimension thereof about said leaf spring, each said coil spring providing a number of gently curved contact surfaces along a length dimension thereof for contacting the workpiece.