The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jun. 05, 2001
Filed:
Nov. 20, 1998
Merilly Ann Hessburg, Fremont, CA (US);
Timothy John Lindsley, San Jose, CA (US);
David Craig Darrow, Pleasanton, CA (US);
John Edgar Sheffield, Pleasanton, CA (US);
Seagate Technology, Inc., Scotts Valley, CA (US);
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.