Mechanism for accurately transferring a predetermined number of integrated circuit packages from tube to tube

Abstract

A mechanism for accurately transferring a predetermined number of IC (Integrated Circuit) packages from a first IC (integrated Circuit) storage tube to a second IC (Integrated Circuit) storage tube. A first tube platform holds the first IC package storage tube at an inclination, and a second tube platform holds the second IC package storage tube at an inclination. Additionally, an IC (Integrated Circuit) package transfer wheel is disposed between the first tube platform and the second tube platform. The IC package transfer wheel has a plurality of spokes radiating outward from a center of the IC package transfer wheel. An IC package from the first IC package storage tube encounters a stopping spoke of the plurality of spokes of the IC package transfer wheel when the first IC package storage tube is placed on the first tube platform, and the stopping spoke prevents the IC package from entering the second IC package storage tube. A turning of the IC package transfer wheel causes the stopping spoke to be lowered such that the IC package enters into the second IC package storage tube. A dial may be coupled to the IC package transfer wheel, and an operator turns the dial to turn the IC package transfer wheel to cause the stopping spoke to be lowered such that the IC package enters into the second IC package storage tube. A count index, coupled to the dial of the IC package transfer wheel, counts a number of IC packages transferred from the first IC package storage tube to the second IC package storage tube with turning of the dial.