Conforming Fence For Vacuum Support Machining Operations

A method for slicing a row from an array of devices, the method comprising:

• substantially blocking gaseous outflow from a pressurized fence of a slicing tool by positioning said row of said array of devices to mate with said pressurized fence;
• urging an air bearing support to rotate in response to blocking said gaseous outflow, to substantially conform said pressurized fence with a mating surface of said row;
• securing said air bearing support in place by reversing said gaseous flow;
• and
• slicing said row from said array of devices.

A slicing tool comprising:

• a rotatable support bearing configured to interface with and provide support to a workpiece during slicing, said support bearing comprising a fence configured to interface with a face of said workpiece, said fence comprising a gas channel having an outlet port and an inlet port, said gas channel configured to provide a pressure differential at said outlet port;
• a housing for said support bearing;
• a gap between said support bearing and said housing;
• a pressure chamber configured to contain and transfer pressurized gas to said gas channel through said inlet port, wherein when said workpiece is positioned to interface with said fence said outlet port is blocked and pressurized gas from said pressure chamber suffuses into said gap to provide an air bearing for said support bearing and urges said support bearing to rotate to a position that conforms said fence of said support bearing to said face of said workpiece;
• and
• a blade configured to slice off a portion of said workpiece.