This inventor holds 2 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Agilent Technologies, Inc., International Business Machines Corporation. Active years: 2000-2004.
Company Filing History:
1 out of 4,729 
1 out of 166,209 
Years Active: 2000-2004
Title: Innovations by William T. Sprague
Introduction
William T. Sprague is a notable inventor based in San Jose, CA (US). He holds 2 patents that showcase his contributions to the field of semiconductor technology and robotics. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and precision of automated systems.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is the "Unified apparatus and method to assure probe card-to-wafer parallelism in semiconductor automatic wafer test." This invention introduces a planarization gauge that ensures probe card-to-wafer parallelism in semiconductor automatic test equipment (ATE). The gauge provides a standard system reference plane during the building and testing of ATE components. It features two planar and parallel surfaces, access holes for depth gauges, and optical targets recognizable by a prober's upward-looking camera. The gauge is designed to be mechanically interchangeable with a probe card, making it compatible with various planarization methods and platforms. It is manufactured and inspected to ensure traceability to established standards such as NIST.
Another significant patent is the "Breakaway precision robot end effector." This end effector is designed with a base for mounting to a robot arm and features a mount plate and a cylindrical body. The design includes precision-ground bumps that align with dimples in the mating plate, facilitating alignment during operation. The end effector is equipped with a retaining extension spring that allows the body to deflect away from the base in the event of a collision, ensuring the robot can continue its tasks without damage.
Career Highlights
William T. Sprague has worked with prominent companies such as Agilent Technologies, Inc. and IBM. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing innovative solutions in technology.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with notable individuals, including Nasser Ali Jafari and Kenneth Dean Karklin. These collaborations have further enriched his work and innovations.
Conclusion
William T. Sprague's contributions to the fields of semiconductor technology and robotics demonstrate his innovative spirit and technical expertise. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing the efficiency and precision of automated systems.