Structure for micro-machine optical tooling and method for making and using

US6049650A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Seagate Technology LLC · US

Inventors

• John H. Jerman · Palo Alto, US
• John D. Grade · Mountain View, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 30, 1998
• Grant date: Apr 11, 2000
• Expiry date: Jun 30, 2018

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G02B6/4219
• WIPO field: Optics
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Micro-machined tools and component holders useful for the manufacture, assembly, and testing of precision micro-miniature parts are provided, particurlarly embodiments well adapted for precision micro-miniature systems incorporating optical and/or electronic components including lenses, optical fibers, and the like. Structure and method find particular applicability in the precision optical systems of the read, write, or read/write heads of optically assisted storage devices for digital computers. Removable tools are used to temporarily position components while the components are glued or otherwise fixed into place during assembly, and then completely removed for use with another head assembly. Break-away tools or holders typically include three major portions: an element holder, a handle, and a break-away neck portion connecting the holder with the handle. The element holder provides a mounting block for an optical, electrical, or mechanical element. Once the elements are attached to the mounting blocks, they are moved into position within the larger assembly via the handle, the mounting block is glued to the assembly and a small predictable force is applied to the handle to brea…