David C Darrow

US Patent:

62644041, Jul 24, 2001

Filed:

Jul 7, 1999

Appl. No.:

9/348357

Inventors:

Merilly Ann Hessburg - Fremont CA
Timothy John Lindsley - San Jose CA
David Craig Darrow - Pleasanton CA
John Edgar Sheffield - Pleasanton CA

Assignee:

Seagate Technology, Inc. - Scotts Valley CA

International Classification:

B65G 5340

US Classification:

406108

Abstract:

A system for hydrodynamically loading objects into a manufacturing system is disclosed. The system comprises a receptacle for retaining fluid, the receptacle having an aperture for egress to a manufacturing system. At least one cassette is supported within the receptacle for retaining a plurality of objects and positioning one of the objects in a loading location in alignment with the aperture. At least one nozzle is also disposed within the receptacle for ejecting fluid and urging objects in the loading location into the aperture.

US Patent:

62414275, Jun 5, 2001

Filed:

Nov 20, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/196856

Inventors:

Merilly Ann Hessburg - Fremont CA
Timothy John Lindsley - San Jose CA
David Craig Darrow - Pleasanton CA
John Edgar Sheffield - Pleasanton CA

Assignee:

Seagate Technology, Inc. - Scotts Valley CA

International Classification:

B65G 5316
B65G 5328
B65G 5338
B65G 6906

US Classification:

406 88

Abstract:

A object processing system is disclosed. The object processing system includes processing modules for performing process steps on objects, and hydrodynamic transport chutes coupled between the processing modules for transporting the object in a substantially touchless manner between the processing modules. Each substantially touchless hydrodynamic transport chute includes a transfer slot formed between two walls. Formed in the walls and directed into the transfer slot are support nozzles angled towards the output side of the transfer slot for creating fluid flow and fluid bearings in the transfer slot and urging objects through the transfer slot. In addition, induction nozzles are formed in the walls near the input side of the transfer slot for inducing objects into the input side of the transfer slot. A base supports the first and second walls and is grooved in substantial alignment with the transfer slot for receiving and bottom-centering objects in the transfer slot.