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:
Jul. 11, 2006
Filed:
Feb. 24, 2004
Allen David Hertz, Boca Raton, FL (US);
Eric Lee Hertz, Indian Harbour Beach, FL (US);
Allen David Hertz, Boca Raton, FL (US);
Eric Lee Hertz, Indian Harbour Beach, FL (US);
Other;
Abstract
A method is disclosed for maintaining a reliable operation of a flexible, self-conforming support system. The self-conforming support system utilizes a plurality of pins that move vertically within a series of apertures. The motion of the pins can be hindered with unwarranted material becoming lodged between the pins and the respective aperture. One scenario where this is highly probable is when using the self-conforming support system for supporting Printed Circuit Boards during a solder paste application process. The present invention utilizes a protective collar to deflect any excess solder paste from becoming lodged between any of the pins and the respective aperture. The collar is essentially an umbrella, and can be of a molded material, a pliant material, or machined into the pins. The collar can further include a pliant top which also protects the Printed Circuit Board from the pins.