Frances Hugle facts for kids

Frances Sarnat Hugle (born August 13, 1927 – died May 24, 1968) was an American scientist, engineer, and inventor. She helped us understand semiconductors and tiny electronic parts. She also invented ways to make integrated circuits and microprocessors. Many of her methods are still used today.

In 1962, Frances Hugle helped start Siliconix. This was one of the first big technology companies in Silicon Valley. She is the only woman listed in the "Semiconductor Family Tree." This shows how important her work was.

Early Life and Education

Frances Betty Sarnat was born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 13, 1927. Her parents were Nathan Sarnat and Lylian Steinfeld. She went to Hyde Park High School in Chicago. There, she loved science and joined many science clubs.

In 1944, just before she graduated, Frances won first place in Chicago's Math Contest. After high school, she went to the University of Chicago. In 1946, at age 18, she earned a degree in Philosophy. She married William B. Hugle, a fellow student, in 1947. Together, they started several research and development companies.

In 1957, Frances earned another degree from the University of Chicago. This time, it was a Bachelor of Science in chemistry. She also studied crystallography at the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn. In 1960, she received a Master of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. Later, she also received an honorary doctorate. In the mid-1960s, she taught at Santa Clara University.

Professional Career and Innovations

Frances Hugle started her first research company, Hyco Labs, in the mid-1940s. She was the Director of Research there. At Hyco Labs, she began working on materials and processes for electronics. This work became the basis for much of her future inventions.

After marrying, the Hugles founded Stuart Laboratories, Inc. They had four children: Margaret, Cheryl, David, and Linda. Frances also worked for Standard Electronics Research Corp. and the Baldwin Piano Company.

In 1959, Frances and her husband joined Westinghouse Company. In 1960, they moved to California to set up an astro-electronics lab for Westinghouse. In 1961, they moved to Santa Clara. There, they co-founded Siliconix in 1962. Frances developed Siliconix's first products. She was also its first Director of Research and Chief Engineer.

After leaving Siliconix in 1964, Frances continued to innovate. She helped start two more semiconductor companies with her husband. These were Stewart Warner Microcircuits and Hugle Industries. She was Director of Research and Chief Engineer at Stewart Warner Microcircuits.

Inventions and Patents

Frances Hugle was a brilliant inventor. She was awarded at least seventeen patents, some even after she passed away. One of her most important inventions was tape automated bonding (TAB). This technology helps connect tiny electronic parts. General Electric was one of the first companies to use it.

Frances was also the first person to patent "flex-based packaging." This is a way to package electronic circuits using flexible materials. She was also a pioneer in early flip chip technology. This technology helps make electronic chips smaller and more powerful. One of her patents is even displayed in the Chip Collection at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.