Patent ID: 6033173
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: H01L,H05K,Y10T

Abstract:
An automated access device for use with lead-frame magazine end cover plates during IC packaging process, to automatically load and unload as well as temporarily store the end cover plates of the magazine loaded with lead-frames, comprising:a 3-axis robotic arm and a plurality of single-axis robots, adapted to carry out a positioning by horizontal and vertical motions;an end cover plate temporary storage shelf, adapted to temporarily store a plurality of end cover plates removed from the magazine;a guiding mechanism, adapted to provide positioning assistance in placing the end cover plate in said end cover plate temporary storage shelf or back to said magazine;a gripper mechanism, installed in said robotic arm for removing and putting back to said end cover plate with respect to said magazine, said gripper mechanism comprising:a suction disc;a first driver adapted to drive said suction disc to adhere to said end cover plates so as to separate them from said magazine, and to return said end cover plates back to said magazine through a positioning assistance of said guiding mechanism;a second driver adapted to adjust a position of the suction disc so as to adapt to the different directions of said end cover plates; anda fixture cylinder having a first gripper adapted to position and fix said end cover plates to assure correct positioning and prevent the end cover plates from dropping during the motion of said robotic arm.