Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for bending a plurality of leads of a component, in order to straighten and/or repair damaged or misaligned leads, is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a securing structure for receiving and holding the component; a first member for engaging the plurality of leads of the component; and a second member for engaging the plurality of leads of the component, wherein the first and second dowels cooperate with one another so as to form the plurality of leads into a desired configuration. The method includes: securing the component to a platform such that the component remains stable during a lead bending process; positioning a first member under the plurality of leads at a first bottom position; positioning a second member above the plurality of leads at a first top position; moving the second member so as to engage a top surface of each lead, thereby exerting a downward force on the plurality of leads, wherein the plurality of leads are caused to bend around the first member located at the first bottom position; moving a plurality of alignment members between spaces between adjacent leads of the plurality of leads so as to align the adjacent leads in a desired orientation with respect to each other; and moving the first member so as to engage a bottom surface of each lead, thereby exerting an upward force on the plurality of leads and forcing the plurality of leads to bend around the second member located at a second top position.

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First Claim