Insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, and use of an insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element.

Abstract

Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), - wherein the insert (40) comprises several contact elements (8) which are designed to electrically contact the electrically conductive test element (10) in the test state of the test contactor (1), - wherein the insert (40) is designed in multiple parts, such that the insert (40) has an upper insert element (50) facing the test element (10) in the test state and a lower base section (60) facing away from the test element (10) in the test state, - wherein the insert element (50) is attached to the base section (60) by means of an elastically restorable fastening element (42), - wherein the insert element (50) has a translational degree of freedom relative to the base section (60) essentially in the top-bottom direction (H).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, and a use of an insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element.

[0002] Conventional test contactor systems essentially consist of a test contactor and a circuit board and are used to test chips, such as computing chips that can be used as CPU cores. A chip is inserted into the open test contactor, and then the test contactor is closed. The test contactor is mounted on a circuit board, so that when the test contactor is closed, its cover exerts pressure on the chip, ensuring reliable contact between the chip and the test contactor's spring-loaded contact pins. The chip then transmits this pressure through the spring-loaded contact pins to the circuit board, thus ensuring reliable contact between the pins and the board.

[0003] The spring contact pins subjected to pressure during testing can be housed in an insert for the test contactor. This insert is conventionally designed to be screwed onto the test contactor. To replace defective spring contact pins, for example, the entire insert can be unscrewed, or a portion of it can be unscrewed to access the spring contact pins.

[0004] CN 2 11 577 210 U describes a test device. The test device consists of a probe module and a press assembly. The probe module comprises a probe seat and several probes. A receiving groove for an electronic device is formed in the center of the top surface of the probe seat. The press assembly consists of a base frame, a top cover, and two clamping claws. The base frame serves to mount a test circuit board. The probe module is positioned in the base frame, which has two recesses on each of its two opposite sides to accommodate the two clamping claws.The upper cover is arranged on the lower frame; an elastic element is positioned between the upper cover and the lower frame; each clamping claw is connected to the upper cover via a pull shaft and to the lower frame via a support shaft; the pull shaft is located on the outside of the support shaft; the upper cover allows the pull shaft, support shaft, and clamping claw to be positioned in the first position, in which the electronic device is pressed downwards under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element; and the pull shaft, support shaft, and clamping claw can be connected to the second position, in which the electronic device is released by pressing the upper cover downwards by a preset distance.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved insert that is particularly easy to assemble and that provides, in particular, improved protection for contact elements for contacting in a test contactor, as well as to provide a corresponding use.

[0006] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved test contactor which is particularly easy to assemble and which in particular provides improved protection for contact elements for contacting in the test contactor.

[0007] The aforementioned problems are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims; preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to an insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, - wherein the device comprises several contact elements designed to electrically contact the electrically conductive test element in the test state of the test contactor, - wherein the insert is designed in multiple parts, such that the insert has an upper insert element facing the test element in the test state and a lower base section facing away from the test element in the test state, - wherein the insert element is attached to the base section by means of an elastically restorable fastening device, in particular is detachably attached, - wherein the insert element has one translational degree of freedom relative to the base section essentially in the top-bottom direction.

[0009] In other words, the insert element is attached to the base section of the insert by means of the fastening device in such a way that the insert element has one translational degree of freedom, essentially in the up-down direction, relative to the base section. That is, the insert element can be moved up and down, or move relative to the base section. Thus, the insert element is displaceable in the up-down direction relative to the base section.

[0010] The insertion element is secured using the elastically restoring fastener, making installation advantageously simple and efficient. Furthermore, the insertion element can be easily detached from the insert, particularly reversibly, and, for example, easily replaced with a different insertion element.

[0011] The simple assembly, fastening, or removal of the insert element also allows for easy adjustments to the insert, particularly in the area between the insert element and the base section. For example, the geometry of the insert can be adapted to accommodate specific geometries of test elements, and / or the elasticity and / or stiffness of the insert can be adjusted to accommodate a compressive force applied to a test element.

[0012] For example, a specific geometry of a test element can be taken into account by attaching an insert element with a predetermined negative contour to the base section.

[0013] For example, a specific intended compressive force during a test can be taken into account by providing the insert facing the test element with a comparatively higher or lower stiffness, for example by placing or exchanging restorable means between the insert element and the base section.

[0014] Due to the translational degree of freedom, i.e., the mobility or displacement of the insert element in the up-down direction, the insert element is advantageously mounted in a floating manner on the base section. The translational degree of freedom of the insert element advantageously protects and / or supports the contact elements. In particular, when the test contactor is closed, with a pressure section pressing the test element against the contact elements in the test state, the test element can also press, at least partially, against the insert element, which, in response to the pressure from the pressure section in the test state, moves along its translational degree of freedom, and in particular, moves substantially downwards. The insert element can thus move downwards parallel to the up-down direction.This allows the initial high pressure on the contact elements to be advantageously reduced, thereby protecting the contact elements and, in particular, extending the service life of the contact elements.

[0015] The application includes, in particular, the fastening device.

[0016] In exemplary embodiments, the multiple contact elements can extend at least partially through the insert element.

[0017] For example, the contact elements can be arranged at least partially in the base section of the insert, and extend at least partially through the insert element.

[0018] The multiple contact elements can be arranged on the insert, in particular with an extension essentially parallel to the top-bottom direction. The multiple contact elements can, in particular, be arranged at least partially within the insert.

[0019] The multiple contact elements can be arranged on the insert in such a way that the multiple contact elements are configured to electrically connect a test element arranged above the insert to a printed circuit board, in particular to a printed circuit board arranged below the insert, in the test state.

[0020] The multiple contact elements can be arranged on the insert in such a way that the multiple contact elements are configured to electrically connect a test element adjacent to the insert at least partially from above with a printed circuit board, in particular with a printed circuit board adjacent to the insert at least partially from below, in the test state.

[0021] In further exemplary embodiments, the contact elements of the multiple contact elements can protrude from the insert on one or both sides, in particular protrude from the insert on one or both sides essentially parallel to the top-bottom direction.

[0022] The contact elements of the multiple contact elements can in particular be spring contact elements, for example elastically restorable spring contact elements.

[0023] The aforementioned design of the contact elements and their arrangement on the insert advantageously ensures reliable, electrically conductive contact of a test element during testing. Furthermore, the insert element, by means of its translational degree of freedom, primarily in the top-bottom direction, advantageously supports and protects the contact elements, at least partially, thereby increasing the service life of the contact elements and, consequently, the service life of the insert or test contactor.

[0024] In the following sections, various terms will be used repeatedly, the understanding of which should be facilitated by the definitions below.

[0025] Electrically conductive test element: The electrically conductive test element, as used here, is a test element that is tested by making electrical contact with it, for example, by connecting it to one or more printed circuit boards. The test element could, for example, be a computing chip that can be used as a CPU core or similar. When only the term "test element" is used here, it also refers to the electrically conductive test element.

[0026] A printed circuit board, as described herein in particular as a circuit board suitable for electrically conductive contacting of the test element, has, in particular, fixing and / or positioning means for attachment to the test contactor, for example, for attachment to the insertion section of the test contactor. The fixing and / or positioning means may, for example, include receiving holes or elements engaging in receiving holes for attachment to the test contactor or for attachment to the insertion section of the test contactor. The circuit board may, in particular, be a PCB (printed circuit board).

[0027] If a direction or angle is given with the addition of "essentially" or "approximately" or "about", this addition is generally intended to refer to a deviation from the direction or angle in question in the range of 0° to 5°.

[0028] If a spatial measure, spatial ratio or other ratio is given with the addition of "essentially" or "approximately" or "about", this addition is intended to indicate, in particular, a deviation from the measure or ratio in question in the range of 0% to 10%.

[0029] The "top-bottom direction," as used here, describes the direction in which the insert, the base section, and, if applicable, the fastening element relate to one another, and in particular to the test contactor. If the insert or test contactor is positioned in its usual operating position on a substantially flat work surface, the top-bottom direction essentially points vertically. It is understood that if the insert or test contactor is placed at an angle on the work surface, the top-bottom direction will deviate accordingly from the vertical direction. Where a vertical direction is subsequently mentioned, as with reference to the figures, this can also correspond to the top-bottom direction.

[0030] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the insert element can be positively attached to the base section by means of the fastening means.

[0031] The fastening means can be designed, in particular, to engage behind or into a fastening section of the base section when the insert element is attached to the base section, for example, to engage behind or into a complementary stop of the base section, and / or to engage behind or into a fastening section of the insert element, for example, to engage behind or into a shoulder of the insert element.

[0032] This allows the insert element to be advantageously and reliably attached to the base section, in particular to be detachably attached, and furthermore, in particular to be detachably attached reversibly.

[0033] The positive locking connection of the insert element to the base section enables not only a reliable and secure fastening, but also allows for the adjustment of predetermined forces for assembly (i.e., attaching the insert element to the fastener or base section) and disassembly (i.e., removing the insert element from the fastener or base section), particularly independently of each other. For example, the force required for assembly and disassembly of the insert element can be adjusted by the contact surface of the insert element and the fastener, and / or by the elastic recovery capacity of the fastener, i.e., its elastic properties.

[0034] A further advantage is that the form-fitting attachment of the insert element to the fastening device or to the base section can be easily controlled, for example by an acoustic click and / or by a haptic stop when the insert element connected to the fastening device moves along the translational degree of freedom in the up-down direction.

[0035] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the fastening means can be configured to limit the translational degree of freedom in the up-down direction. In other words, the fastening means can be configured to limit the mobility, in particular the displacement, in the up-down direction. Particularly preferably, this can limit the degree of mobility, especially the displacement, in the up-down direction.

[0036] For example, the fastener may have a stop section configured to contact or abut a complementary stop of the base section and / or a complementary stop of the insert element when a limit or maximum deflection of the insert element relative to the base section is reached along the translational degree of freedom, essentially in the up-down direction, is reached. The limit or maximum deflection, i.e., the limit or maximum displacement, essentially in the up-down direction, defines the boundary of the translational degree of freedom in the up-down direction.

[0037] The limitation of the translational degree of freedom, essentially in the top-bottom direction, can be adjusted accordingly, in particular by the fastening means, especially by a contour of the fastening means along the top-bottom direction.

[0038] By limiting the translational degrees of freedom in the up-down direction, the mounting and / or dismounting of the insert element is advantageously adjustable. Furthermore, the protection provided by the insert element for the contact elements is particularly advantageously adjustable. Additionally, the contacting of the contact elements by the test element in the test state is advantageously adjustable. For example, by adjusting the limit of the translational degrees of freedom in the up-down direction, a specific contact sequence can be set. For instance, when pivoting a pressure section of a test contactor towards the insert section, which includes the insert, the test element can initially come into contact with the multiple contact elements. As the pivoting progresses into the test state, the insert element also comes into contact with the test element, thereby advantageously reducing the pressure on the contact elements.In another example, when pivoting the pressure section of the test contactor towards the insertion section, which includes the insert, the test element can initially come into contact with the insertion element, whereby as the pivoting into the test state increases, the several contact elements also come into contact with the test element, thereby advantageously reducing the initial pressure on the contact elements, and the test element can be guided to the contact elements.

[0039] Adjusting the limit of the translational degree of freedom in the up-down direction advantageously allows the contact between the contact elements and the test element to be tested to be precisely adjusted during the closing of the test contactor, i.e., during the transition of the test contactor from the open state to the test state, in particular with regard to the load applied to the contact elements.

[0040] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the fastening means can be configured to provide the insert element with a rotational degree of freedom essentially in the up-down direction. wherein the rotational degree of freedom is restricted and in particular blocked by mutually facing side surfaces of the insert element and the base section.

[0041] By designing the fastening element in particular to provide the insert element with a rotational degree of freedom essentially in the up-down direction, the mounting of the insert element relative to the fastening element is further advantageously facilitated.

[0042] In other words, the fastener and / or the insert can be rotated relative to each other in an up-down direction for attachment to the base section. Accordingly, the installer can easily position the insert and the fastener relative to each other for attachment to the base section, particularly without specific rotational adjustments.

[0043] In alternative embodiments, the fastening element can form a rotation-specific engagement with the insert element in the state attached to the base section, for example a bayonet lock.

[0044] If the rotational degree of freedom of the insert element is restricted or blocked, the insert element can advantageously be positioned precisely relative to a test element and / or relative to a pressure section of the test contactor and / or relative to the contact elements, which are arranged, for example, on the base section of the insert and can project upwards from the insert element at least partially. Restricting or limiting the rotational degree of freedom in the up-down direction therefore advantageously facilitates the alignment of the insert element relative to a test element under test, relative to the pressure section in the test state, and / or relative to the contact elements in the test state, and especially also before the test state, for example, during transport.

[0045] The insert element and the base section of the insert may, in particular, have mutually facing side surfaces which are designed to abut or strike each other when the insert element is rotated essentially in the up-down direction relative to the base section, in particular to limit or even block the rotational degree of freedom of the insert element in the up-down direction.

[0046] In exemplary embodiments, the insert element and the base section of the insert can be shaped like a trough, wherein the insert element, in a state in which it is attached to the base section by means of the fastening means, is at least partially received in the base section.

[0047] Optionally, the insert element and the base section of the insert may have essentially corresponding polygonal shapes in a plane essentially perpendicular to the top-bottom direction, such as a triangular, quadrilateral, in particular rectangular or square, pentagonal, hexagonal, or other polygonal shape. The side surfaces of the insert element and the base section each extend essentially along the side edge corresponding to the respective polygonal shape and, for example, essentially parallel to the top-bottom direction or inclined to the top-bottom direction.

[0048] Accordingly, the insert element can be guided through the base section, particularly essentially along the top-bottom direction.

[0049] The opposing side surfaces of the insert element and the base section can be essentially parallel to each other.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the opposing side surfaces of the insert element and the base section may, for example, have a distance of less than approximately 2 mm, in particular less than approximately 1.4 mm, and in particular less than approximately 1 mm, for example in the range of approximately 0 mm to approximately 2 mm, and in particular in the range of approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 1.4 mm, and in particular in the range of approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 1 mm.

[0051] The aforementioned exemplary distances between the facing side surfaces advantageously restrict or block a rotational degree of freedom of the insert element through the base section, while at the same time ensuring simple, at least partial, insertion of the insert element into the base section.

[0052] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the insert element can be fastened relative to the base section by means of a single fastening means.

[0053] The insert element can, in particular, include an opening, for example, an opening that is located or formed essentially in the center of the insert element. Alternatively, the opening of the insert element can be located or formed essentially off-center on the insert element.

[0054] The individual fastening element is designed in particular to penetrate at least sectionally into the opening or to pass through the opening when the insert element is attached to the base section, in particular in such a way that the fastening element is positively and / or frictionally connected to the insert element in the area of ​​the opening of the insert element.

[0055] For example, the fastener on or in the opening of the insert element can be pre-tensioned against a wall of the opening, at least with one section, for example with one or more spring arms. Alternatively or additionally, the fastener on or in the opening of the insert element can engage behind the insert element at least partially, or engage into the insert element at least partially.

[0056] In exemplary embodiments, the base section can include an opening, for example, an opening that is arranged or formed substantially in the center of the base section. Alternatively, the opening of the base section can be arranged or formed substantially off-center on the base section.

[0057] The opening of the base section is designed in such a way that, in the state in which the insert element is attached to the base section, it is essentially coaxially aligned with the opening of the insert element, and optionally additionally aligns with the opening of the insert element section by section.

[0058] The single fastening element makes the assembly and disassembly of the insert element advantageously simpler and, in particular, more efficient.

[0059] If the opening of the insert element and / or the opening of the base section is arranged or formed essentially centrally on the insert element or base section, accessibility during assembly and disassembly, and accordingly assembly and disassembly, can be facilitated and, in particular, carried out more efficiently.

[0060] If the opening of the insert element and / or the opening of the base section is arranged or formed off-center on the insert element or base section, an integral coding for mounting the insert element on the base section can advantageously be formed. In particular, the insert element can only be attached to the base section if the openings of the insert element and the base section are essentially coaxial with each other.

[0061] A central opening refers to an opening that is located or formed primarily in the geometric center of the element in question.

[0062] In exemplary embodiments, a central opening of the insert element can be arranged or formed in the region of the center of gravity or centroid of the insert element, or in an alignment with the center of gravity or centroid of the insert element. If, for example, the insert element is essentially trough-shaped, the central opening of the insert element can be arranged or formed essentially in the region of the center of the trough shape or in the region of the center of a rectangle, with which the contour of the insert element can be approximated in a top view.

[0063] In exemplary embodiments, a central opening of the base section can be arranged or formed in the region of the center of gravity or centroid of the base section, or in line with the center of gravity or centroid of the base section. If, for example, the base section is essentially trough-shaped, the central opening of the base section can be arranged or formed essentially in the region of the center of the trough shape or in the region of the center of a rectangle with which the contour of the base section can be approximated in a top view.

[0064] In alternative embodiments, and for example to create a substantially parallel guide through the fastening means, the insert element can be attached to or fastened to the base section by means of several mutually spaced fastening means, wherein the insert element has one degree of freedom along each fastening means substantially in the up-down direction. The multiple fastening means can, in particular, be spaced apart from each other substantially perpendicular to the up-down direction.

[0065] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the fastening means can have a stop section configured to strike the base section substantially in an up-down direction, and the fastening means can have an engagement section configured to penetrate the insert element at least section by section and engage in a shoulder of the insert element.

[0066] The stop section of the fastener can, in particular, have a plate-shaped, disc-shaped, or circular extension at a first end of the fastener in the top-bottom direction, especially when the insert element is fastened to the base section. The stop section, and thus in particular the plate-shaped, disc-shaped, or circular extension of the stop section, can have a cross-section or diameter substantially perpendicular to the top-bottom direction that is larger than the cross-section or diameter of an opening in the base section. Accordingly, the stop section of the fastener can, in particular, be designed to form a positive fit in the top-bottom direction with the opening of the base section or with a complementary stop adjacent to the opening of the base section.

[0067] In other words, the base section, particularly adjacent to the opening, can have a complementary stop for the fastening element, which limits one degree of freedom of the fastening element essentially in the top-bottom direction, i.e., in particular upwards in the top-bottom direction.

[0068] The engagement section of the fastener is arranged or formed, in particular, on an upper side of the fastener in a top-bottom direction. The engagement section may have one or more arms, which extend, in particular, substantially in a top-bottom direction. Optionally, the engagement section, and in particular the one or more arms, may have one or more projections, which may extend, in particular, substantially perpendicular to the top-bottom direction, in order to engage with the insert element.

[0069] The engagement section of the fastener can, in particular, comprise one or more elastically restoring spring arms. The spring arms can extend essentially in an upward-downward direction and can have one or more projections to engage with the insert element in a frictional and / or positive-locking manner when the insert element is attached to the base section.

[0070] In exemplary embodiments, the fastening device can have exactly two spring arms, in particular elastically restorable spring arms. The two spring arms can be arranged or formed opposite each other on the stop section of the fastening device, in particular arranged or formed essentially perpendicular to the top-bottom direction opposite each other on the stop section of the fastening device.

[0071] This can advantageously facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the insert on and from the fastener. For example, to disassemble the insert, an operator can easily press the two spring arms together manually or with a tool to release the frictional and / or positive locking of the fastener with the insert, and remove the insert from the base section, particularly in a top-to-bottom direction.Furthermore, to assemble the insert, an operator can guide the insert element from above to the base section and manually or with a tool press the fastener into the insert element from below, in particular through an opening in the base section, to form a frictional and / or positive locking connection between the fastener and the insert element, in particular to form a releasable frictional and / or positive locking connection between the fastener and the insert element.

[0072] The spring arms have a length, specifically a length in the top-bottom direction when the insert element is attached to the base section, which is greater than the wall thickness of the base section in the area of ​​the base section's opening. This allows the spring arms to advantageously protrude through the base section's opening during assembly, ensuring relatively good mutual access between the insert element and the fastener.

[0073] In exemplary embodiments, the stop section of the fastening element can have a recess and, in particular, a hole between the arms or spring arms. The recess or hole of the stop section can extend, in particular, adjacent to the arms or spring arms within the stop section. This advantageously improves the flexibility of the arms or spring arms, thereby facilitating assembly and disassembly.

[0074] In exemplary embodiments, the insert element can have a collar that extends, at least partially, in a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. The collar can, in particular, have a shoulder designed to engage with the fastening element, especially with the engagement section of the fastening element. The shoulder can, for example, be located at one end of the collar. Alternatively or additionally, the collar can have a shoulder that is located within the substantially hollow cylindrical extension of the collar or that is located substantially centrally in the top-bottom direction within the substantially hollow cylindrical extension of the collar.

[0075] This advantageously provides a simple and reliable attachment of the insert element to the fastener or base section.

[0076] The collar of the insert element can, in particular, have an outer diameter that is less than or equal to the inner diameter of the opening of the base section. Furthermore, the collar can, in particular, extend downwards, at least partially, from a bottom side of the insert element substantially along the top-bottom direction.

[0077] This allows the insert element to be advantageously pre-assembled on the base section in a simple manner, which subsequently facilitates assembly with the fastening device.

[0078] In exemplary embodiments, the collar of the insert element can have an insertion ramp at a lower end of the collar and on a radially inner side of the collar, in particular a circumferential insertion ramp.

[0079] This further facilitates the assembly of the fastening element, which in particular has spring arms that can be guided and deformed in a controlled manner along the insertion ramp, on the insert element.

[0080] The engagement section of the fastening device, and in particular each arm or spring arm of the engagement section, can have an insertion inclination at an upper end of the engagement section and on an outer side facing the collar of the insert element, in particular a section-wise circumferential insertion inclination.

[0081] This further facilitates the assembly of the fastener on the insert element, which in particular has a collar and a chamfered insertion ramp. Specifically, the chamfered insertion ramp and the angled insertion ramp make it advantageously easy to engage and position the insert element and the fastener relative to each other.

[0082] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the engagement section can have at least two separate arms, in particular spring arms, which are designed to penetrate the insert element at least partially, wherein each arm or spring arm can have a projection to engage in a shoulder of the insert element. wherein the engagement section preferably has exactly two separate arms or spring arms, which are further preferably arranged on a substantially circular stop section of the fastening means.

[0083] The shoulder of the insert element can be located, in particular, at the end and / or within a collar of the insert element.

[0084] The two separate arms or spring arms can be arranged opposite each other, particularly at a stop section of the fastening device.

[0085] The at least two or exactly two separate arms or spring arms advantageously facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the insert element on or from the fastening device, and in particular on or from the base section.

[0086] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the insert can comprise a preloading means configured to preload the insert element relative to the base section.

[0087] The prestressing device is specifically designed to prestress the insert element away from the base section. Accordingly, the prestressing device can be specifically designed to prestress the insert element essentially in a top-bottom direction upwards, away from the base section.

[0088] The pre-tensioned insert element relative to the base section makes it particularly possible to precisely adjust the transition of the test contactor to the test state, i.e., by increasing pressure of the test element on the contact elements and / or on the insert element.

[0089] Furthermore, the preloading device can advantageously protect the contact elements of the insert, for example during transport of the insert, whereby the insert does not need to be located on or in the test contactor. This can further advantageously improve the service life of the contact elements, and consequently, in particular, of the insert and the test contactor.

[0090] The prestressing device can be an elastic prestressing device, in particular an elastically restorable prestressing device.

[0091] The preloading device can, for example, comprise one or more elastomer bodies, and / or one or more springs, in particular coil springs.

[0092] In a state where the insert element is detached from the base section, the prestressing device can, for example, be replaced or changed.

[0093] The present application therefore advantageously allows for an application-specific adjustment of the preloading device, and furthermore advantageously for an adjustment of the protection of the contact elements, as well as an application-specific adjustment of the transition of the test contactor into the test state.

[0094] Another aspect concerns a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the test contactor comprising: - an operation as described above, -- wherein the deployment includes a test area to which the electrically conductive test element can be attached, and - a pressure section which is pivotably mounted relative to the insert and which is designed to press the electrically conductive test element against the multiple contact elements in the test state of the test contactor.

[0095] The pressure section is specifically designed to press the test element in the test state primarily in an up-down direction. It is understood that if the test contactor is not positioned horizontally, the pressure section may be designed to press the test element in a direction other than up-down during the test state.

[0096] The pressure section can have a driving device to position a test element on the driving device of the pressure section before the pressure section is pivoted into the test state, and to carry the test element along when the pressure section is pivoted into the test state, and to press it against the multiple contact elements of the insert, particularly in the test area that the insert encompasses.

[0097] In exemplary embodiments, the test element can be inserted or attached directly into or to the test area before the pressure section is brought into the test state.

[0098] The test state, in particular, represents a closed state of the test contactor in which the test element, which is arranged at least partially between the insert and the pressure section, is pressed against the contact elements arranged on or in the insert to electrically connect the contact elements to the test element. In exemplary embodiments, but not limited thereto, the test element can be electrically connected to a printed circuit board by means of the contact elements in the test state, in order to test the test element, in particular with regard to its operational capability.

[0099] In exemplary embodiments, the test contactor can comprise an insertion section which has a frame section to which the insert can be arranged and, in particular, attached. The pressure section can, in particular, be pivotally mounted on the frame section by means of a pivot joint, so that the test contactor can be selectively brought into an open state, a test state, or a closed state.

[0100] In exemplary embodiments, the test state of the test contactor can be reversibly fixed by mutually complementary clamping means of the pressure section and the insertion section, in particular of the pressure section and the frame section.

[0101] By having the test contactor in place, a transition to the test state can be advantageously set reversibly, protection for the contact elements can be advantageously provided, the contact elements can be easily replaced, and a test element-specific insert can be reversibly provided on the test contactor.

[0102] The use, its exemplary, preferred and alternative embodiments, and their effects, relate equally to the test contactor, and vice versa.

[0103] Another aspect concerns the use of an insert as described here, the use of which includes the following steps: - Deployment of the deployment; - Detaching the fastener from the insert element; - Removing the insert element from the base section.

[0104] Releasing the fastener from the insert element may involve elastic actuation of the fastener, in particular elastic actuation of the arms or spring arms of the fastener, especially to release a frictional and / or form-fit connection between the insert element and the fastener.

[0105] By removing the insert element from the base section, for example the contact elements can be checked and / or replaced, and / or a preloading device which is arranged between the base section and the insert element can be changed or replaced, i.e. in particular adjusted.

[0106] After removing the insert from the base section, the insert can be reattached to the base section, or a different insert can be attached to the base section in place of the original insert. This allows the insert to be advantageously configured for a specific test element.

[0107] The insert and the test contactor, their exemplary, preferred and alternative embodiments, and their effects, relate equally to the use of the insert, and vice versa.

[0108] The insert may in particular comprise or consist of a plastic, in particular a thermoplastic plastic.

[0109] In particular, the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening means may be made of or consist of a plastic, in particular a thermoplastic plastic.

[0110] The insert, and in particular the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening element, are advantageously simple and cost-effective to manufacture from plastic, and especially from thermoplastic plastic, and furthermore exhibit suitable elastic deformability. Moreover, the insert is advantageously designed essentially as an insulator, apart from the contact elements arranged in or on the insert, so that targeted electrically conductive contact of the test element can be ensured.

[0111] In exemplary embodiments, the insert, and in particular the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening means, may comprise or consist of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA), and / or polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0112] If the insert, and in particular the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening element, contains or consists of polyetheretherketone, the insert is advantageously dimensionally stable and heat-resistant, in addition to being particularly easy to manufacture, for example by machining and / or injection molding. The dimensional stability and heat resistance advantageously allow for a large number of consecutive or continuous tests to be carried out on the test contactor, whereby the test can be performed with advantageous high repeatability.

[0113] The following describes embodiments of the invention in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and that individual features of the embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments within the scope of the accompanying claims.

[0114] It shows: Fig. 1 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in an open state; Fig. 2 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in an open state; Fig. 3 a test contactor according to an embodiment, with arranged test elements, in an open state; Fig. 4 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 5 a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 6 Another sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 7 Another sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 8a an application according to an embodiment; Fig. 8b a sectional view of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 9a a fastening device according to an embodiment; Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c a further sectional view of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 10 an exploded view of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c an application according to an embodiment, with a coding; Fig. 12 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 13 a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b a pressure section according to one embodiment; Fig. 14c a pivot joint according to one embodiment; Fig. 15 a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 16 Another sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 17a a support element according to one embodiment; Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c a sectional view of a support element according to one embodiment; Fig. 18a and Fig. 18b a flowchart of a use of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 19 a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a test contactor; Fig. 20a and Fig. 20b a flowchart of a use of a support element according to an embodiment; and Fig. 21 a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a test contactor.

[0115] Fig. Figure 1 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in an open state of the test contactor 1.

[0116] Fig. Figure 2 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in an open state of the test contactor 1. The in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 2 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1 as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 1 shown, correspond, where the in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in 2 is shown enlarged in contrast.

[0117] Fig. Figure 3 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, with attached test elements 10, in an open state. The in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 3 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown, correspond, whereby in comparison to the one in Fig. 3 test contactor 1 shown additionally have test elements 10 attached, and in particular a circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1.

[0118] Fig. Figure 4 shows a test contactor 1 according to one embodiment, in the closed state. The in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 4 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. In Figure 4, a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state. This contrasts with the illustrations in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. The pressure section 80 of the test contactor 1 and the insertion section 20 of the test contactor 1 are pivoted relative to each other. The pressure section 80 can, in particular, be pivoted such that it is configured to press a test element 10 arranged on the test contactor 1, or more specifically on the insertion section 20, against contact elements 8 which are arranged in the insertion section 20.

[0119] The closed state, as in Fig. As shown by way of example in Figure 4, the clamping element can be fixed in particular by means of a clamping element 100 which engages with a complementary clamping element 32, in particular in a reversibly releasable manner. One of the clamping element 100 and the complementary clamping element 32 can be arranged on the pressure section 80, and the other of the clamping element 100 and the complementary clamping element 32 can be arranged on the insertion section 20, in particular on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20.

[0120] The clamping means 100 can, in particular, comprise an elastically restoring hook configured to engage a projection of the complementary clamping means 32 when the test contactor 1 is closed, and especially when the test contactor 1 is in test mode. The clamping means 100 is, in particular, elastically restorable and actuated, for example, by an operator or a tool, so that the test contactor 1 can be reversibly moved into an open and a closed state, or, in particular, into a test state.

[0121] Fig. Figure 5 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the length direction L, L'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 5 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1 as shown in Figure 5. Fig. 4 shown, correspond, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 5 is shown in a cross-sectional view. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be in Fig. 5 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. In the 5 shown test contactor 1, in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0122] Fig. Figure 6 shows another sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the length direction L, L'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 6 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown, correspond, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 6 in the lateral direction B is cut at a different location than the test contactor 1 in Fig. 5. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be in Fig. 6 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. In 6, the test contactor 1 is shown, in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0123] Fig. Figure 7 shows another sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the length direction L, L'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in section 7 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 shown, correspond, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 7 is cut in the lateral direction B at a different point than the test contactor 1 in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be in Fig. 7 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. In the 7 shown test contactor 1, in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0124] Fig. Figure 8a shows an insert 40 according to one embodiment, wherein the insert 40 may correspond to the insert 40 as in a test contactor 1 in one of the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. 7 shown or arranged.

[0125] Fig. Figure 8b shows a sectional view of an insert 40 according to an embodiment, wherein the one shown is in Fig. 8b shown use 40 in particular the one in Fig. 8a shown deployment 40 can correspond.

[0126] Fig. Figure 9a shows a fastening means 42 according to one embodiment, wherein the fastening means 42 can correspond to the fastening means 42 as in an insert 40 or in a test contactor 1 in one of the Fig. 1 to 8a and 8b shown or arranged.

[0127] Fig. 9b and Fig. Figure 9c shows a further sectional view of an insert 40 according to the embodiment, wherein the insert is located in the Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c shown use 40 especially the one in Fig. 8a can correspond to the use shown in 40, and in particular can have a fastening means 42, as shown in Fig. 9a shown. The sectional views of the Fig. 9b and Fig. Figure 9c each shows a section with a cutting plane that essentially extends in the width direction B and in the length direction L.

[0128] Fig. Figure 10 shows an exploded view of an insert 40 according to an embodiment, wherein the in Fig. 10 shown deployment 40 especially the one in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c can correspond to the use shown in 40, and in particular can have a fastening means 42, as shown in Fig. 9a shown.

[0129] Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. Figure 11c shows an insert 40 according to an embodiment, with a coding, in particular with at least one pin 68, which is arranged in an opening or in a coding opening 67 of the insert 40. The one in the Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c can in particular essentially correspond to the use of 40, as in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. 10 correspond to the insert 40 shown, and in particular have at least one pin 68 which is arranged in one or more coding openings 67.

[0130] Fig. Figure 12 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 12 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 shown, correspond, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 12, in particular, is shown from its rear. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be in Fig. 12 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. 12. Test contactor 1 shown, in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0131] Fig. Figure 13 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the height direction H, H'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 13 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 and Fig. 12 shown, correspond, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 13, in particular from its back and in cross-sectional view. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be found in Fig. 13 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, correspond, where at the in Fig. 13 shows that a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and that the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0132] Fig. 14a and Fig. Figure 14b shows a pressure section 80 according to an embodiment, wherein the pressure section is located in the Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b shows print section 80, in particular the one described in the Fig. The pressure section 80 shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12 and 13 may correspond to this. For clarity, pressure section 80 is shown in each case specifically without the swivel joint 90.

[0133] Fig. Figure 14c shows a pivot joint 90 according to one embodiment, wherein the Fig. The swivel joint 90 shown in 14c, in particular the one shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12 and 13 can correspond to the swivel joint 90 arranged on the test contactor 1.

[0134] Fig. Figure 15 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the vertical direction H, H' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 15 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 shown, correspond, where the pressure section 80 of the in Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 15 is not shown, at least partially, for clarity. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be found in Fig. 15 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, corresponding to the test contactor 1 in the closed state, and the printing section 80 is at least partially omitted for clarity.

[0135] The in Fig. The representation of the test contactor 1 shown in Figure 15 can in particular correspond to a transport state of the test contactor 1 in which no printed circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110.

[0136] Fig. Figure 16 shows another sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the vertical direction H, H' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. The Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figure 16 can in particular be essentially the same as the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 and Fig. 15 shown, correspond. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be in Fig. 16 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown, corresponding to the test contactor 1 in the closed state, and wherein a circuit board 2 is arranged at the test contactor 1.

[0137] Compared to test contactor 1, as in Fig. As shown in 15, it is at test contactor 1, as in Fig. Figure 16 shows, in particular a printed circuit board 2 arranged at the test contactor 1. The printed circuit board 2 is arranged in a sandwich-like manner between the insert section 20 and the support element 110. Fig. 16 can in particular represent a test state of the test contactor 1.

[0138] Fig. Figure 17a shows a support element 110 according to one embodiment.

[0139] Fig. 17b and Fig. Figure 17c shows a sectional view of a support element 110 according to an embodiment, wherein the support element 110 is in particular the one shown in Fig. The support element 110 shown in 17a can correspond to the one shown in the Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. The support elements 110 shown in 17c can in particular correspond to the respective support elements 110 as shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 shown or arranged on the test contactors 1 shown there.

[0140] The one in the Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 represents an exemplary test contactor 1, which in particular has an insertion section 20 and a pressure section 80, wherein the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 are pivotably mounted relative to each other, in particular by means of an exemplary pivot joint 90 or by means of several pivot joints 90.

[0141] The one in the Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 has several test areas 5, which are only partially indicated with reference symbols in the figures for clarity. The insert section 20 has, in particular, a corresponding plurality of inserts 40, such that each insert 40 has a test area 5 to which a test element 10 can be attached.

[0142] The test element 10 can in particular be inserted into or attached to the insert 40, in particular being inserted into or attached to the insert 40 in such a way that the test element 10 is electrically conductively contacted with the contact elements 8, which are arranged at least partially in the insert 40, in the test state of the test contactor 1.

[0143] It is understood that although the test contactor 1 has, by way of example, a plurality of test areas 5 and inserts 40, for the electrically conductive contacting of a corresponding plurality of test elements 10, the test contactor 1 is not limited to this.In further exemplary embodiments, the test contactor 1 can have a plurality of test areas 5 and inserts 40 that differs from those shown in the figures, and / or a plurality of pressure elements 81 that differs from those shown in the figures, and / or a plurality of support elements 110 that differs from those shown in the figures, for example, a single insert 40 which accordingly has a single test area 5, and / or a single pressure element 81 which extends in the width direction B, B', for example, with substantially the same dimension as the insert 40 and / or as the test area 5 provided by the insert 40 for arranging a test element 10 on it, and / or the test contactor 1 can have a single support element 110.

[0144] Although the test contactor 1 therefore advantageously enables the simultaneous testing of a plurality of test elements 10, which may, for example, be arranged on a test module 12, another exemplary test contactor 1 can only test one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or a plurality of test elements 10 other than the one shown, simultaneously, in particular by means of a corresponding number of inserts 40, which in turn provide a corresponding number of test areas 5.

[0145] Accordingly, the inserts 40, which the insertion section 20 has and which are arranged in particular on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20, can each be configured to form or have a test area 5 for a single test element 10. This advantageously ensures test element-specific testing by the test contactor 1.

[0146] The inserts 40 can be attached to the frame section 30 in a reversibly detachable manner, for example by means of screws, retractable clips, or similar.

[0147] The longitudinal direction L and the lateral direction B define, in particular, a substantially horizontal plane in which the test contactor 1, and especially the insertion section 20 of the test contactor 1, can be set up or positioned. This substantially horizontal plane can, in particular, correspond to a work surface during typical use of the test contactor 1.

[0148] The vertical direction H represents a direction essentially perpendicular to the horizontal plane spanned by the longitudinal direction L and the lateral direction B. The vertical direction H corresponds in particular to an up-down direction in a typical use of the test contactor 1, and in particular to an up-down direction in a typical use of the insert section 20 of the test contactor 1, and furthermore in particular to an up-down direction in a typical use of the insert 40 of the insert section 20.

[0149] If test contactor 1 is in a closed state, as for example in the Fig. As shown in Figures 4 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16, the width direction B' of the pressure section 80 coincides with the width direction B of the test contactor 1, the length direction L' of the pressure section 80 coincides with the length direction L of the test contactor 1, and the height direction H' of the pressure section 80, or the thickness direction of the pressure section 80, coincides with the height direction H, or top-bottom direction, of the test contactor 1, or is at least substantially parallel to each other. The width direction B of the test contactor 1 is, in particular, essentially parallel to the width direction B' of the pressure section 80, regardless of whether the test contactor 1 is in the open or closed state.

[0150] The respective directions are shown without a specific origin and serve to represent a relative position of the parts and sections of the test contactor 1 to each other.

[0151] The latitude direction B, the longitude direction L and the height direction H or the up-down direction H form in particular a right-handed system.

[0152] The width direction B' of the pressure section 80, the length direction L' of the pressure section 80 and the height direction H' of the pressure section 80 or the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 form in particular a right-handed system.

[0153] The longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80 and the lateral direction B' of the pressure section 80 define, in particular, a plane which, in the closed state of the test contactor 1, is essentially parallel to the plane defined by the lateral direction B and the longitudinal direction L of the test contactor 1. In the open state of the test contactor 1, as exemplified in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the height direction H' and the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 are essentially perpendicular to the plane spanned by the longitudinal direction L' and the lateral direction B' of the test contactor 1. In particular, the height direction H' and the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 represent a direction along the thickness of the pressure section 80.

[0154] The pressure section 80 is pivotally mounted relative to the insertion section 20, in particular by means of one or more pivot joints 90. The pivot joint 90, as exemplified in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore in particular in Fig. As shown in Figure 14c, it can in particular have a single rotational degree of freedom. This degree of freedom is provided by the pivot joint 90 for the pressure section 80, for pivoting relative to the insertion section 20.

[0155] This advantageously ensures a targeted and repeatable transition between the open state and the closed state, and in particular between the open state and the test state of the test contactor 1.

[0156] In further exemplary embodiments, and as shown in the figures, the test contactor 1 can comprise a plurality of pivot joints 90 by means of which the pressure section 80 is pivotably mounted relative to the insertion section 20. In particular, the test contactor 1 can comprise two pivot joints 90, which are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the pivot axis SA. This ensures and improves the pivoting movement of the pressure section 80 and, consequently, a targeted and repeatable transition between the open and closed states.

[0157] The pivot axis SA of a respective pivot joint 90 is defined, in particular, essentially by an axial element 92 of the pivot joint 90. A restoring means 94 can, in particular, be arranged on the axial element 92. Specifically, a restoring means 94 can be arranged around the axial element 92, and by its arrangement on or around the axial element 92, form a pivot axis SA about which the pressure section 80 can pivot relative to the insertion section 20.

[0158] As in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore especially in the Fig. 14a and Fig. As shown in Figure 14b, in particular the pressure section 80 has a fastening area 86 for fastening the axial element 92.

[0159] The fastening area 86 is formed in the longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80, particularly on a rear end face of the pressure section 80. The fastening area 86 has, in particular, an opening 87 which extends continuously through the pressure section 80 in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. Adjacent to the opening 87, which extends through the pressure section 80 in the thickness direction H', on both sides in the width direction B' of the pressure section 80, is a cavity that is bounded or limited on one side in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. This cavity is bounded or limited on one side in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 by the first stop 88, which adjoins the opening 87 on one side in the width direction B', and by the second stop 89, which adjoins the opening 87 on the other side in the width direction B'.

[0160] As in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore especially in the Fig. 14a and Fig. As shown in 14b, the first stop 88 and the second stop 89 can be arranged opposite each other essentially in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80.

[0161] As through the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 shown and especially by the Fig. 14a and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 14b, the first stop 88 for an axial element 92 arranged at the mounting area 86 can form a stop in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, and the second stop 89 for an axial element 92 arranged at the mounting area 86 can form a stop against the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80.

[0162] This allows the swivel joint 90 to be advantageously mounted on the pressure section 80 without preload.

[0163] For example, the pivot joint 90 can be arranged or positioned in the area of ​​the opening 87 of the mounting area 86 such that the axial extent of the axial element 92 is approximately aligned with the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. The pivot joint 90 can then be rotated substantially about a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80. In particular, the pivot joint 90 can be rotated such that the axial element 92, in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, abuts the first stop 88 and the second stop 89, or contacts one or both stops of the first and second stops 88, 89.In other words, the rotation of the pivot joint 90 relates in particular to a rotation of the pivot joint 90, wherein the axial extent of the axial element 92 of the pivot joint 90 is transformed or rotated from a state in which it is oriented substantially along the thickness direction H' to a state in which it is oriented substantially parallel to the width direction B' of the pressure section 80.

[0164] It is understood that, depending on the dimensions of the axial element 92 and the dimensions of the continuous opening 87 in the width direction B', the pivot joint 90 does not initially have to be aligned exactly with the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. For example, the pivot joint 90 can instead be arranged rotated in the continuous opening 87, for example already towards the target position in the mounting area 86, in particular towards the two stops 88, 89.

[0165] In exemplary embodiments, the rotation of the pivot joint 90 can be effected such that a second spring arm (not shown) of the return element 94 of the pivot joint 90 engages in the spring arm receptacle 85 of the pressure section 80. The second spring arm comprises, in particular, a means engaging in the spring arm receptacle 85, which comes to rest against the pressure section 80 within the spring arm receptacle 85. The second spring arm of the return element 94 of the pivot joint 90 can, in particular, be arranged projecting substantially tangentially from the axial element 92.Furthermore, the second spring arm of the restoring means 94 can be designed in such a complementary manner with the spring arm receptacle 85 that the second spring arm does not exert any force on the pressure section 80 in the open state of the test contactor 1, and in particular exerts an increasing force on the pressure section 80 during the transition to the closed state, i.e. an increasing force which is directed against the closing movement of the test contactor 1 or the pivoting movement towards the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0166] The spring arm receptacle 85 can be arranged or formed in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, particularly on a side of the pressure section 80 facing the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1. Furthermore, the spring arm receptacle 85 can be closed or have a stop on a side of the pressure section 80 facing away from the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1, in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, for engaging the second spring arm of the return element 94, particularly when pivoting the pressure section 80 into the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0167] The test contactor 1 can include one or more swivel joints 90 for pivotable mounting of the pressure section 80 relative to the insertion section 20. As shown in the Fig. Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 show that if the test contactor 1 comprises several pivot joints 90, the pivot joints 90 of the multiple pivot joints 90 can be spaced apart from each other essentially in a direction parallel to the pivot axis SA. This advantageously ensures a particularly stable and repeatable pivoting of the pressure section 80 relative to the insertion section 20.

[0168] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16, the insert section 20 can, in particular, comprise a mounting area 22 for the base 98 of the pivot joint 90. Specifically, the frame section 30 of the insert section 20 can comprise the mounting area 22 for the base 98. Furthermore, the insert section 20 and the frame section 30 can, in particular, each comprise a mounting area 22 for each pivot joint 90.

[0169] The base 98 has, in particular, a receptacle for the axial element 92. As shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 shown and in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 14c, the base 98 can, in particular, have a two-armed receptacle for the axial element 92. The two-armed receptacle comprises, in particular, two opposing holes designed to receive the axial element 92 along its axial extent. The axial extent of the axial element 92, with the restoring means 94 arranged thereon or around it, essentially defines the pivot axis SA, such that the pivot axis SA is essentially parallel to the axis of the axial extent of the axial element 92, and in particular is essentially coaxial with the axial element 92 arranged on the base 98.

[0170] In exemplary embodiments, one or both of the two opposing holes of the two-armed receptacle of the base 98 can be frictionally connected to the axial element 92. This allows the axial element 92 to be advantageously positioned precisely relative to the base 98. Furthermore, the assembly of the swivel joint 90 can be facilitated, since the axial element 92 is advantageously prevented from detaching from the base 98.

[0171] In further exemplary embodiments, the two opposing holes of the two-armed receptacle of the base 98 can form a clearance fit or transition fit with the axial element 92. This allows the axial element 92 and the restoring means 94 to be advantageously and easily attached to the base 98.

[0172] As in the Fig. 12, Fig. 14c and Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the base 98 can, in particular, have a receptacle for a first spring arm 96 of the restoring element 94. The receptacle of the base 98 for the first spring arm 96 can be an opening that extends through the entire base in the vertical direction H, or it can be an opening that does not extend completely through the base 98 in the vertical direction H. The restoring element 94 can be easily positioned on the base 98 by means of the opening for the first spring arm 96 before the axial element 92 is pushed through the restoring element 94 and received by the receptacle of the base 98, which can have two arms.

[0173] Furthermore, the mounting of the base 98 for the first spring arm 96 of the return element 94 advantageously allows for adjustment of the direction in which the second spring arm of the return element 94 (not shown in the figures) projects from the return element 94 or from the axial element 92 when mounted on the pressure section 80. This facilitates easy adjustment of the mounting of the pivot joint 90 on the pressure section 80, whereby the second spring arm of the return element 94 is inserted into the spring arm receptacle 85. Furthermore, the mounting is adjustable so that the pivot joint 90 with the axial element 92 can be advantageously attached without preload to the mounting area 86 of the pressure section 80, and the base 98, particularly after the axial element 92 has been attached to the pressure section 80, can be attached without preload to the mounting area 22 of the insert section 20 or the frame section 30.In particular, the base 98 can be attached without preload to the mounting area 22 of the insert section 20 or the frame section 30, especially in a relative position between pressure section 80 and insert section 20 or frame section 30, which corresponds to the open state of the test contactor 1.

[0174] A maximum open position of the open state between pressure section 80 and insertion section 20 or between pressure section 80 and frame section 30 can be set, for example, by a mutual stop between pressure section 80 and insertion section 20 or between pressure section 80 and frame section 30.

[0175] As in the Fig. 12 and Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the fastening area 22 for the base 98 can, in particular, have a step 23, especially if the fastening area 22 has a step 23 on both sides in the width direction B. The step 23 or the step 23 on both sides comprises, in particular, a section set back in the height direction H, through which the base 98 can be arranged at least partially in a form-fitting manner on the fastening area 22, especially if it can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on one side in the longitudinal direction L, and / or in a form-fitting manner on both sides in the width direction B.

[0176] This advantageously facilitates and improves the positioning of the base 98 for assembly, especially for pre-tension-free assembly, on the fastening area 22 for the base 98.

[0177] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 13, the fastening area 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 can include corresponding fixing means to ensure simple and, in particular, pre-tension-free fixing of the base 98 to the fastening area 22 for the base 22.

[0178] The mounting area 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 itself can, in exemplary embodiments, be fixed by positive locking and / or friction locking, for example by means of screws, by means of self-retaining clips, by means of cotter pins, by means of frictionally engaging bolts, by means of a bayonet fitting, or similar. In alternative embodiments, the mounting area 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 itself can be fixed by material locking, for example by means of gluing or welding, or similar.

[0179] In exemplary embodiments, and as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 13, the base 98 can be fixed to the mounting area 22 for the base 98, in particular by means of one or more screws. If the mounting area 22 has the step 23, or the step 23 on both sides in the width direction B, a single screw or other single fixing means may advantageously suffice to fix the base 98 to the mounting area 22 for the base 98, since the positive locking advantageously limits or prevents rotation of the base 98 relative to the mounting area 22 for the base 98. If the base 98 is fixed by means of several fixing means, for example by means of several fixing means spaced apart from each other in the width direction B, for example by means of two screws spaced apart from each other in the width direction B, rotation of the base 98 relative to the mounting area 22 for the base 98 can advantageously be prevented.This makes it advantageous to adjust the pivot axis SA of the printing section 80 relative to the insertion section 20, and to adjust testing using the test contactor 1 with advantageous repeatability.

[0180] By pivoting the second spring arm (not shown) of the restoring means 94 with the pressure section 80, when pivoting the pressure section 80 into the closed state of the test contactor 1, relative to the first spring arm 96 of the restoring means 94, which is fixed in particular on the base 98 and / or on the mounting area 22 of the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30, a restoring force can advantageously be provided by the restoring means 94, which increases with increasing pivoting of the pressure section 80 into the closed position of the test contactor 1.

[0181] The restoring means 94 can in particular comprise a spring, such as a coil spring, which is arranged around the axial element 92. The spring can in particular comprise a first spring arm 96 and a second spring arm (not shown), each of which projects or extends substantially tangentially from the axial element 92. The first spring arm 96 is in particular a spring arm 96 facing the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30, which is configured to come into contact with or be received in the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30, and which is in particular configured to be fixed to the insertion section 20.The second spring arm is in particular a spring arm facing the pressure section 80, which is designed, in particular in the area of ​​the spring arm receptacle 85, to come into contact with the pressure section 80 or to be received therein, in order to move with the pressure section 80 in accordance with the in particular pivoted position of the pressure section 80.

[0182] The restoring means 94 advantageously allows a predetermined force to be set for bringing the test contactor 1 into the closed state, and in particular into the test state, which further advantageously prevents the test contactor 1 from accidentally or unintentionally closing, thereby in turn advantageously protecting the contact elements 8.

[0183] It is understood that the fastening areas 22, 86 for the pivot joint 90 can be configured, in particular in reverse, on the pressure section 80 and on the insertion section 20 or frame section 30. It is further understood that the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 can be connected by means of other pivot joints, in particular by means of other returnable pivot joints, than the one described in particular in Fig. The swivel joint shown in 14c can be pivotally coupled to each other at 90 degrees.

[0184] The swivel joint 90, which is particularly capable of self-returning, as in particular in Fig. Figure 14c illustrates, but advantageously allows for preload-free mounting on the test contactor 1, in particular on the pressure section 80 and on the insertion section 20.

[0185] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14a and Fig. As shown in Figure 14b, in exemplary embodiments, one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80, in particular one of the frame section 30 and the pressure section 80, can have a projection 24 which is configured to engage in a groove 84 of the other of the insertion section 20 or frame section 30 and the pressure section 80. The engagement of the projection 24 in the groove 84 can, in particular, include engagement both in the open state and in the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0186] The projection 24 can, in particular, project substantially in the vertical direction H of the insertion section 20, especially towards the pressure section 80, if the projection 24 is arranged or formed on the insertion section 20 or on the frame section 30. The projection 24 can be formed integrally with the insertion section 20, the frame section 30, or the pressure section 80, or can, in particular, comprise a bolt or a similar pin-shaped element.

[0187] The groove 84 can, in particular, comprise an opening facing the hinge joint 90 in the longitudinal direction L, L' on the insertion section 20 or on the pressure section 80. The groove 84 can extend substantially in the vertical direction H of the insertion section 20 if the groove 84 is arranged or formed on the insertion section 20, or it can extend substantially in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 if the groove 84 is arranged or formed on the pressure section 80.

[0188] The projection 24 and the groove 84 can be arranged or configured to be spaced apart from a hinge joint 90, particularly in a direction that is essentially parallel to the pivot axis SA. In exemplary embodiments, the projection 24 and the groove 84 can be arranged between two pivot joints 90, particularly in a direction that is essentially parallel to the pivot axis SA of several pivot joints 90.

[0189] The projection 24 and the groove 84, through their mutual engagement, facilitate the assembly of the test contactor 1, for example, by allowing the pressure section 80, with the pivot joint(s) 90 attached to the pressure section 80 without preload, to be positioned on the insertion section 20 or on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20 such that the projection 24 and the groove 84 engage. Subsequently, the base 98 of one or more pivot joints 90 can be easily attached to the mounting area 22 for the base 98.

[0190] The projection 24 and the groove 84 therefore advantageously provide an assembly aid, in particular an assembly guide.

[0191] Furthermore, in the exemplary case of a test contactor 1 with a single pivot joint 90, the projection 24 and the groove 84 can advantageously form a pivot guide, which in turn advantageously improves the repeatability of the tests carried out with the test contactor 1.

[0192] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 15 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the pressure section 80 can, in particular, have one or more pressure elements 81, which are attached to the pressure section 80 by means of one or more fixing means 83. The fixing means 83 advantageously allow the pressure element 81 to be inclined relative to the insertion section 20 when transitioning to the closed state and, in particular, to the test state, for example, to ensure uniform and, in particular, planar contact of a test element 10 arranged on the test area 5. The pressure element 81 can, in particular, be pre-tensioned towards the fixing means 83 by means of one or more pre-tensioning means 82 of the pressure section 80, so that the pressure element 81 reliably assumes an orientation or inclination specified by the fixing means 83.

[0193] This advantageously ensures uniform contact, particularly protecting contact elements 8, through the pressure section 80.

[0194] In alternative embodiments, the pressure section 80 can be formed essentially in one piece, and in particular in one piece with a pressure element 81 that projects towards the test element 10 in the test state. This makes the pressure section 80 advantageously easy to manufacture.

[0195] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16, the insert section 20 can comprise one or more inserts 40 which can be attached to a frame section 30, in particular detachably attached.

[0196] What next in the Fig. 5 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 15, the insert 40 comprises a plurality of contact elements 8, which, without being limited to this, can be designed in particular as spring contact pins. The contact elements 8 of an insert 40 are configured to electrically contact a test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1. The electrically conductive contact can be established by the contact elements 8, for example, with a test station or with a printed circuit board 2.

[0197] In Fig. 3. Five test elements 10 are shown as examples, one test element 10 is shown partially, and one insertion 40 is shown to which no test element 10 is arranged or attached.

[0198] As exemplified in the sectional views in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 15 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 16, the insert 40 can have a test area 5 on its upper side in the vertical direction H, where the test element 10 can be positioned to make electrically conductive contact with the contact elements 8, which are arranged on or in the insert 40. The test area 5 can, in particular, be a region bounded in the vertical direction H, H' between the insert 40 and the pressure section 80 or between the insert 40 and the pressure element 81, where the test element 10 can be positioned and, in particular, inserted.

[0199] In the test state of the test contactor 1, in particular when the clamping means 100 is engaged with the complementary clamping means 32, the test contactor 1 is designed to press the test element 10 against the insert 40 by means of the pressure section 80, in particular by means of the pre-tensioned pressure element 81, in particular against the contact elements 8 of the insert 40, so that the test element 10 is or becomes electrically conductively contacted with the contact elements 8.

[0200] As especially in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the insert 40 can in particular be designed in multiple parts and may have at least one insert element 50, one or more fastening means 42, and a base section 60.

[0201] The insert element 50 can be attached to the base section 60, in particular by means of one or more fastening means 42. The fastening means 42 can in particular be an elastically resilient fastening means 42.

[0202] The base section 60, as in particular in Fig. As illustrated in 15, it can be attached to the frame section 30 of the insert section 20 by means of a connecting means 69, in particular it can be detachably attached.

[0203] The insert element 50 is, in particular, a part of the insert 40 facing the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor, i.e., in particular, an upper part of the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H. The base section 60 is, in particular, a part of the insert 40 facing away from the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor, i.e., in particular, a lower part of the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H.

[0204] The base section 60 can be configured, in particular, to receive the insert element 50 section by section. The base section 60 can, for example, be trough-shaped. The base section 60 can be configured, in particular, to receive the insert element 50 between opposing side surfaces 57 of the base section 60, especially side surfaces 57 of the base section 60 that are essentially opposed to each other in the longitudinal direction L and / or essentially in the lateral direction B, at least section by section.

[0205] The insert element 50 can, for example, be trough-shaped, in particular be trough-shaped complementarily to the base section 60, in particular such that the mutually facing side surfaces 55, 57 of the insert element 50 and the base section 60 adjoin each other, and, for example, have a spacing in the adjacent direction of less than about 2 mm, in particular of less than about 1.4 mm, and furthermore, in particular of less than about 1 mm, for example, in the range of about 0 mm to about 2 mm, in particular in the range of about 0.2 mm to about 1.4 mm, and furthermore, in particular in the range of about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm.

[0206] Thus, the insert element 50 can advantageously be guided through the base section 60, in particular essentially in the top-bottom direction H. This allows the insert element 50 to advantageously form a guide for the contact elements 8 that is movable in the top-bottom direction H, and accordingly a support and / or protection for the contact elements 8.

[0207] As particularly through the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the insert 40 can, in particular, have an elastically resilient fastening element 42. Specifically, the insert 40 can have only a single fastening element 42 to attach the insert 50 to the base section 60. This makes it advantageously easy to mount and dismount the insert 50 on the base section.

[0208] The insert element 50 can, in particular, comprise several holes 51 configured to partially surround the contact elements 8, especially to partially surround an upper end of the contact elements 8. The base section 60 can, in particular, comprise several holes 61 configured to receive the contact elements 8. The holes 61 of the base section 60 and the holes 51 of the insert element 50 are, in particular, arranged or configured to be substantially aligned with each other in the top-bottom direction H.

[0209] The holes 51, 61 in the insert element 50 and the base section 60 advantageously support and, in particular, protect the contact elements 8, thus advantageously improving the service life of the contact elements 8 and, consequently, of the test contactor 1. The holes 51, 61 can, in particular, be arranged or formed continuously in the insert element 50 or in the base section 60, and, in particular, extend substantially parallel to the top-bottom direction.

[0210] As through the Fig. 8b, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the insert element 50 can have a translational degree of freedom, essentially in the up-down direction H, relative to the base section 60 by means of the fastening means 42. The translational degree of freedom, essentially in the up-down direction H, can be limited, in particular, by means of the fastening means 42, as shown in the example in Figure 10. Fig. The limit position shown in 9b is illustrated, in which a stop section 47 of the fastening means 42 is in contact with or abuts a complementary stop 63 of the base section 60.

[0211] The fastening element 42 can, in particular, have a substantially circular stop section 47, from which an engagement section 43 extends in the top-bottom direction H. The stop section 47 can, in particular, have a larger cross-section or diameter than an opening 62 of the base section 60 in the region of the complementary stop 63 of the base section 60. In other words, the complementary stop 63 of the base section 60 can, in particular, provide a positive fit for the stop section 47 of the fastening element 42, especially a positive fit substantially in the top-bottom direction H, so that the translational degree of freedom of the insert element 50 is advantageously limited.

[0212] The insert element 50 can in particular have a shoulder 56 in order to engage with the engagement section 43 of the fastening means 42 in a state attached to the base section 60.

[0213] In exemplary embodiments, the insert element 50 can, in particular, have a collar 54 which extends substantially in a hollow cylindrical shape in the top-bottom direction H, and especially extends substantially downwards in the top-bottom direction H from the insert element 50. The collar 54 can, in particular, have a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the opening 62 of the base section 60 in the region of the complementary stop 63 of the base section 60. This makes it advantageously easy to pre-assemble the insert element 50 with the collar 54 on the base section 60, which further facilitates connection with the fastening means 42.

[0214] The collar 54 can in particular have the shoulder 56 for the engagement of the engagement section 43 of the fastening means 42.

[0215] In exemplary embodiments, the shoulder 56 can be arranged or formed in a central section of the collar 54 along the top-bottom direction H. This allows the fastening element 42 to advantageously engage in the insert element 50, and in particular in the collar 54 of the insert element 50, without projecting upwards from the collar 54 in the top-bottom direction H, thereby ensuring an advantageously large test area 5 for a test element 10.

[0216] The fastening element 42 can be rotatably engaged with the insert element 50, i.e., rotatably about the central axis of the opening 52 of the insert element 50. This advantageously simplifies the connection of the insert element 50 with the fastening element 42. In other words, the connection between the insert element 50 and the fastening element 42 can, in particular, have one rotational degree of freedom, specifically one rotational degree of freedom substantially about the central axis z of the opening 52 of the insert element 50.

[0217] The rotational degree of freedom of the insert element 50 relative to the fastening element 42 can be restricted or blocked, in particular, by mutually facing side surfaces 55, 57 of the insert element 50 and the base section 60, at least for the insert element 50 or only for the insert element 50. This allows the fastening element 42 and its connection with the insert element 50 to be advantageously designed simply, wherein the fastening element 42 forms a limitation of one translational degree of freedom of the insert element 50, and the base section 60, advantageously independently, forms a limitation of one rotational degree of freedom of the insert element 50.

[0218] The insert element 50 and / or the base section 60 can have an opening 52, 62, which is arranged or formed essentially at the geometric center Z of the insert element 50 or the base section 60, respectively. This allows the insert element 50 to be advantageously guided uniformly through the fastening means 42 and the adjacent side surfaces 57 of the base section 60, in particular essentially in the top-bottom direction H.

[0219] The fastening means 42 can in particular have several spring arms 44 which extend essentially in the top-bottom direction H from the stop section 47 of the fastening means 42, for example two, three, four, five, six, or more spring arms 44.

[0220] The spring arms 44 each have a projection 45 that extends essentially perpendicularly outwards from the central axis z, in particular to engage with the shoulder 56 of the insert element 50. In the engaged state of the respective spring arm 44, the spring arm 44 is in a relaxed or elastically restored state. By deforming the spring arms 44 towards the central axis z, the fastening element 42 can be detached from the insert element 50.

[0221] The spring arms 44 of the fastening means 42 can be separated from one another, in particular by a recess 46, wherein the recess 46 separates the spring arms 44 substantially along the top-bottom direction H. The recess 46 can additionally or alternatively include a central hole through the fastening means 42, so that the spring arms 44 are arranged at least partially opposite one another, particularly with respect to a central axis z through the hole or through the recess 46.

[0222] In exemplary embodiments, the fastening means 42 can in particular comprise exactly two opposing spring arms 44, whereby the fastening means 42 can advantageously be easily connected to and detached from the insert element 50.

[0223] As especially in the Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the use of 40 can include one or more prestressing devices 58.

[0224] The prestressing device(s) 58 can be arranged or received at least partially in the base section 60 of the insert. Furthermore, the prestressing device(s) 58 can be configured, in particular, to prestress the insert element 50 away from the base section 60, i.e., to prestress the insert element 50 essentially upwards in a top-bottom direction. The prestressing device(s) 58 can be configured, in particular, to prestress the insert element 50 upwards or towards the test element 10 in the test condition such that the insert element 50, in the open state, is in the upper limit position defined by the fastening device 42, as is particularly evident in Fig. 9b is shown, arranged.

[0225] This allows the contact elements 8 to be advantageously supported and protected by the insert element 50 in the open state of the test contactor 1, for example by the holes 51 of the insert element 50 surrounding the contact elements 8 at least partially, and / or by the insert element 50 projecting upwards further than the upper ends of the contact elements 8 arranged on the insert 40.

[0226] When the test contactor 1 is pivoted from the open state to the closed state or to the test position, the test element 10, pressed by the pressure section 80 or by the pressure element 81 of the pressure section 80, advantageously first comes into contact with the insert element 50. Only through further pressure towards the closed state or to the test position does the test element 10 come into contact with the contact elements 8 by pressing the pressure section 80 or the pressure element 81. This advantageously reduces the initial pressure on the contact elements 8. Furthermore, accidental or unintentional direct contact with the contact elements 8 in the open state of the test contactor 1 is advantageously prevented, and the contact elements 8 are thus protected.

[0227] The preloading means 58 can, in particular, be elastically restorable preloading means 58 and, for example, comprise one or more springs, especially coil springs, and / or one or more elastomeric elements. In exemplary embodiments, the preloading means 58 can be arranged distributed around the geometric center Z of the insert 40 or around the geometric center Z of the insert element 50.

[0228] This allows the insert element 50 to be advantageously arranged on the insert 40 facing the test element 10 with preload, in particular to be arranged on the insert 40 with preload uniformly facing the test element 10.

[0229] As especially in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. As shown in Figure 11c, the insert 40 can comprise several openings 67 or coding openings 67. The coding openings 67 are designed in particular to be fitted with at least one pin 68, especially such that the at least one pin 68 is partially received in a coding opening 67 and partially projects upwards in the top-bottom direction H, in particular facing the test element 10 in the test state.

[0230] By installing or arranging one or more pins 68 in the multiple coding openings 67, the insert 40, and in particular the insertion section 20, can have a test element-specific coding. In other words, the coding is formed by one or more projections or by a coding pattern of projections formed by the one or more pins 68 arranged in the coding openings 67.

[0231] The Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. Figure 11c shows exemplary codings or coding patterns using a pin 68 arranged in a coding opening 67. The ones in the Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. The exemplary codings shown in Figure 11c can be combined with one another to form further codings or coding patterns. In particular, more than one pin 68, and especially different pins 68, can be arranged in the coding openings 67.

[0232] In Fig. Figure 3 shows examples of some codings 14 or coding recesses 14 of a test element 10 or of a test module 12, on which several test elements 10 are arranged. For clarity, only some of the codings 14 or coding recesses 14 in the figures are labeled with reference symbols.

[0233] What's next in Fig. As shown by way of example in Figure 3, the coding openings 67 of the inserts 40 can be fitted with a pin 68, in particular with different pins 68. By fitting several coding openings 67 with different pins 68, for example by means of pins 68 of different cross-sections or diameters, the insert 40 or the insertion section 20 can have a coding for a test element 10 or a test module 12 on which several test elements 10 are arranged. By means of the different pins 68, the insert 40 or the insertion section 40 can have a coding for a test element 10 or for a test module 12 which prevents the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 in a twisted position in the plane, i.e., for example, prevents it from being rotated by 180° about a substantially parallel to the vertical direction H, and / or which prevents the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 in a twisted position in the plane.Test module 12 is prevented from being turned upside down, i.e., rotated by 180° to be essentially parallel to the width direction B.

[0234] This advantageously prevents incorrect insertion of test elements 10 and / or test modules 12, thereby further improving the test accuracy of the test contactor 1 and the durability of the contact elements 8, and correspondingly of the test contactor 1, since a potentially undesirable or even harmful insertion and contacting of the contact elements 8 by the protruding pins 68 is prevented.

[0235] The coding openings 67 can in particular be arranged on a coding section 66 of the base section 60, in particular on coding sections 66 of the base section 60 that are essentially opposite each other in the longitudinal direction L.

[0236] In exemplary embodiments, the coding openings 67 can be arranged or designed asymmetrically with respect to a parallel to the width direction B on the insert 40, i.e., asymmetrically with respect to a mirror axis parallel to the width direction B and passing through the center Z.

[0237] This allows a coding to be advantageously provided by a single pin 68, which prevents the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 upside down, i.e., which prevents the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12, for example, rotated by 180° about an essentially parallel to the width direction B.

[0238] In further exemplary embodiments, the coding openings 67 can be arranged or formed asymmetrically with respect to a point symmetry on the insert 40, i.e., asymmetrically with respect to an axis of symmetry running along the central axis z or asymmetrically with respect to a point conceived on the central axis z that lies in a plane of the coding sections 66 of the base section 60.

[0239] For example, the insert 40 can include coding sections 66 opposite each other in the longitudinal direction L, comprising an even number of coding openings 67 on one side and an odd number of coding openings 67 on the other side.

[0240] By appropriately asymmetrically placing or arranging pins 68 in the coding openings 67 which are arranged or formed asymmetrically with respect to point symmetry, it is advantageous to prevent the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 in a twisted position in the plane, i.e., for example, to prevent the attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 rotated by 180° about a substantially parallel to the height direction H.

[0241] In exemplary embodiments, pairs of coding openings 67 arranged opposite each other in the longitudinal direction L can have the same cross-section or diameter. This advantageously ensures the simple formation of a coding pattern or a coding facing the test element 10, for which, for example, one pin 68 or a plurality of pins 68 of the same predetermined diameter or cross-section suffices.

[0242] In further exemplary embodiments, coding openings 67, which are arranged on the same coding section 66, i.e., are not arranged opposite each other in the longitudinal direction L, can have different cross-sections or diameters. This advantageously enables the reliable formation of a coding pattern or a coding facing the test element 10, which prevents incorrect arrangement or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12.

[0243] As through the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. As further shown in Figure 11c, the insert 40 can, in particular, have fixing means 70, especially if the base section 60 of the insert 40 is formed in multiple parts, and in particular has a base section 64 extending upwards and downwards in the direction H and a base section 65 extending downwards in the direction H. The fixing means 70 can, but are not limited to, include in particular holes, positioning means such as bolts, and screw connections.

[0244] This allows the upper and lower base sections 64, 65 to be easily manufactured, and in particular the opening 62 in the base section 60 for the upper and lower base sections 64, 65 to be easily introduced or manufactured.

[0245] In alternative embodiments, the base section 60 can be formed essentially in one piece. This advantageously allows for precise and, in particular, simple production of a continuous alignment of the holes 61 for receiving the contact elements 8.

[0246] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 15 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the test contactor 1 can in particular comprise a support element 110, especially a support element 110 as shown in the Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c shown.

[0247] The test contactor 1 can, in particular in the transport state of the test contactor 1, in the open state of the test contactor 1, in the closed state of the test contactor 1, and / or in the test state of the test contactor 1, comprise one or more support elements 110.

[0248] The transport state of the test contactor 1 is, in particular, a state in which the support element 110 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and in particular in which the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, especially from below in the top-bottom direction H. The transport state of the test contactor 1 is furthermore, in particular, configured in such a way that no printed circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110, or no printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1.To ensure safe transport of the test contactor 1 in the transport state, the transport state can in particular include a closed state of the test contactor 1, i.e. a state in which the pressure section 80 is pivoted towards the insertion section 20, in particular pivoted such that the clamping means 100 and the complementary clamping means 32 of the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 are engaged.

[0249] Alternatively, the test contactor 1 can also be transported in the open state, for example stacked in the open state.

[0250] The test state of the test contactor 1 is, in particular, a state in which the support element 110 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and in particular in which the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, especially from below in the top-bottom direction H. The test state of the test contactor 1 is furthermore, in particular, configured in such a way that a test element 10 is arranged on the insertion section 20, the test contactor 1 is in the closed state, and optionally a printed circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110.

[0251] The support element 110 can comprise one or more projecting sections 112, which extend from a side of the support element 110 facing the insertion section 20, essentially in the top-bottom direction H. The projecting section(s) 112 can be arranged or formed in the longitudinal direction L, particularly centrally, on the support element 110. On the outer side in the longitudinal direction L, the support element 110 can, in particular, have one or more fastening means 115, which, for example, can be at least partially received in the support element 110. The fastening means 115 can, in particular, be received in the support element 110 such that, in the test condition, none of the fastening means 115 projects downwards in the top-bottom direction H from the support element 110. This advantageously allows the test contactor 1 to be positioned securely on a work surface.

[0252] The support element 110 can comprise one or more recessed sections 114, which are recessed on a side of the support element 110 facing the insertion section 20, essentially in the top-bottom direction H, and in particular recessed relative to the one or more projecting section(s) 112.

[0253] Projecting sections 112 and recessed sections 114 can, in exemplary embodiments, be configured to alternate with one another. Accordingly, the support element 110 can provide one or more cavities 116, particularly between the projecting sections 112, and especially on a side facing the insertion section 20 or the insert 40 of the insertion section 20. The cavities 116 are areas bounded, in particular from below, essentially in the top-bottom direction H by the support element 110, especially by the recessed section(s) 114. In other words, the cavities 116 are areas protected, in particular by the support element 110. Optionally, the cavities 116 can also be bounded, in particular laterally, essentially in the longitudinal direction L and / or in the lateral direction B, by the support element 110, especially by the projecting section(s) 112.

[0254] The alternating arrangement of the projecting sections 112 and the recessed sections 114 advantageously creates a labyrinthine protective barrier on the lower side of the insert section 20 or the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H. This labyrinthine barrier is configured in particular to prevent direct access to the contact elements 8 from below, and especially to make direct access to the contact elements 8 from a downward angle more difficult or impossible.

[0255] In exemplary embodiments, the projecting sections 112 can be arranged on the support element 110 such that they do not align with the contact elements 8 in the top-bottom direction H. In particular, the projecting sections 112 can be arranged on the support element 110 such that they abut an alignment of the contact elements 8 in the top-bottom direction H in the longitudinal direction L and / or in the lateral direction B.

[0256] This advantageously prevents the contact elements 8 from being pressed by the support element 110 during transport. Furthermore, during testing, it advantageously ensures support for the insert 40, and in particular for a printed circuit board 2 arranged below the insert 40, which is pressed by the contact elements 8 during testing and may be subjected to bending stress and, in particular, bent. Thus, the support element 110 is advantageously functionally integrated and can advantageously improve the service life of the contact elements 8, the printed circuit board 2, and especially the test contactor 1.

[0257] The support element 110 can have one or more stepped contours 118, in particular at at least two spaced-apart locations of the support element 110, especially on two longitudinally L outer sections of the support element 110. The stepped contour(s) 118 can project towards the insertion section 20, in particular on a side facing the insertion section 20 in the transport and test conditions. The insertion section 20, and in particular the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20, can have stepped sections 34 complementary to the one or more stepped contours 118, in particular on a top-bottom H lower side of the insertion section 20.

[0258] The one or more stepped contours 118 together with the stepped sections 34 advantageously enable a positive locking and therefore particularly secure positioning of the support element 110 relative to the insertion section 20 during assembly, and accordingly facilitates the assembly of the test contactor 1 for the transport condition.

[0259] The support element 110 can further comprise one or more fastening means 115 for attachment to the insert section 20, in particular for attachment to the frame section 30 of the insert section 20. The fastening means 115 can, for example, comprise a screw connection, a retractable clip, and / or a friction-fit bolt. The fastening means 115 can, in particular, be at least partially incorporated in the support element 110 and, in particular, be arranged in the top-bottom direction H below the stepped contours 118. In exemplary embodiments, the fastening means 115 can be arranged in the support element 110 in a captive manner, for example by means of a projection, a retaining ring, a locking pin, or the like.

[0260] Fig. 18a and Fig. Figure 18b shows a flowchart of a use of an insert 40 according to one embodiment.

[0261] The use of an insert 40, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. As set out in 18a, this may in particular include the following steps: S10: Deployment of Unit 40; S20: Detaching the fastener 42 from the insert element 50; and S30: Removing the insert element 50 from the base section 60.

[0262] Steps S10, S20, and S30 can be performed in precisely this order. The use of insert 40 can refer specifically to an insert 40 as described herein and as particularly relevant in connection with the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 shown and described.

[0263] Following step S30, insert 40 can be used, for example: - include a step of adjusting and / or setting and / or replacing one or more preload devices 58; and / or - include a step of adjusting and / or setting and / or replacing one or more contact elements 8.

[0264] Furthermore, the use of the insert 40 may include a step of attaching another insert element 50 to the base section 60 by means of the fastening means 42, or a step of reattaching the insert element 50 to the base section 60 by means of the fastening means 42.

[0265] This makes the use of 40 advantageously adjustable for a test element 10 in an application-specific manner, advantageously adjustable for a specific test, for example for a test with predetermined force and / or pressure profile, and advantageously allows one or more contact elements 8 to be easily exchanged.

[0266] The use of an insert 40, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. As set forth in 18b, the following steps may in particular include: S110: Deployment of Unit 40; and S120: Arranging one or more pins 68 in at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67 to form a coding facing the test element 10 in the test state.

[0267] Steps S110 and S120 can be performed in precisely this order. The use of insert 40 can refer specifically to an insert 40 as described herein and as particularly relevant in connection with the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15, Fig. 16 and Fig. 18a shown and described.

[0268] Following step S120, insert 40 can be used, for example: - a step of removing one or more of the pins 68 from at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67, to form a further coding facing the test element 10 in the test state, which is different from the previous coding; and / or - a step of arranging one or more of the pins 68 in at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67, to form a further coding facing the test element 10 in the test state, which is different from the previous coding.

[0269] This makes the insert section 20 or the insert 40 advantageously adjustable for a test element 10 or for a test module 12, whereby it is advantageously possible to prevent incorrect arrangement of the test element 10 or the test module 12, which has a predetermined coding by means of one or more coding recesses 14, on the insert section 20 or on the insert 40.

[0270] Fig. Figure 19 shows a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a test contactor 1.

[0271] The procedure for manufacturing a test contactor 1, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. 19, as reproduced, may in particular include the following steps: S210: Providing an insertion section 20 with a pressure section 80 which is pivotably mounted on the insertion section 20, wherein the insertion section 20 comprises a test area 5 to which the electrically conductive test element 10 can be attached, and which comprises contact elements 8 which are designed to electrically contact the electrically conductive test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1, wherein the pressure section 80 is designed to press the electrically conductive test element 10 against the multiple contact elements 8 in the test state of the test contactor 1; S220: Providing a support element 110; and S230: Connecting the support element 110 to the insert section 20 in such a way that the support element 110 forms a protection for the contact elements 8.

[0272] Steps S210, S220, and S230 can be performed in precisely this order. The fabrication of test contactor 1 can refer specifically to a test contactor 1 as described herein and as particularly evident in connection with the Fig. Items 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 are shown and described.

[0273] Step S230 of connecting the support element 110 with the insert section 20 can be carried out in particular such that no printed circuit board 2 is arranged between insert section 20 and support element 110, or such that no printed circuit board 2 is arranged contacting the contact elements 8 at the test contactor 1.

[0274] The test contactor 1 produced in this way represents, in particular, a test contactor 1 in its transport state. The transport state can, in particular, be a closed state of the test contactor 1. The transport state of the test contactor 1 can also be a state of the test contactor 1 in which no test element 10 is arranged on the insertion section 20 and / or no printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the insertion section 20.

[0275] The transport state of the test contactor 1, wherein the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, in particular from below in the top-bottom direction H, advantageously represents a state in which the contact elements 8 are protected. The contact elements 8 are protected in such a way that direct access to the contact elements 8, particularly from below, is prevented by the support element 110.

[0276] The connection of the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 in such a way that the contact elements 8 are protected, in particular in the top-bottom direction H from below, need not include a hermetic shielding of the contact elements 8, but in particular includes preventing direct access essentially from below, for example by the hand of a user, or by a tool commonly used for handling test contactors.

[0277] This advantageously protects the contact elements 8. In conjunction with the insert 40 and the insert element 50, which is pre-tensioned upwards in the top-bottom direction H, and / or in conjunction with the closed state of the test contactor 1, wherein the clamping means 100 is engaged with the complementary clamping means 32, the contact elements 8 can also advantageously be protected at the top, and the test contactor 1 can be configured to be advantageously durable.

[0278] Following step S230, the test contactor 1 can be used, in particular, by releasing the support element 110, arranging a printed circuit board 2 on the insertion section 20 such that it makes electrically conductive contact with the contact elements 8, and connecting the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 such that the printed circuit board 2 is supported by the support element 110. This advantageously prepares the test contactor 1 for use in a test with a test element 10 or test module 12 arranged or to be arranged on the insertion section 20, thereby advantageously improving the durability of the printed circuit board 2 and the repeatability of the tests performed with the test contactor 1.

[0279] Fig. 20a and Fig. Figure 20b shows a flowchart of a use of a support element 110 according to one embodiment.

[0280] The use of a support element 110, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. 20a, relates in particular to the use of a support element 110 for a test contactor 1 for testing an electrically conductive test element 10 for protecting contact elements 8 of the test contactor 1 during transport.

[0281] The use of support element 110, as in Fig. 20a, as exemplified, may in particular include the following step: S310: Connecting the support element 110 to the test contactor 1 without an intermediate circuit board 2.

[0282] The use of the support element 110 may relate in particular to a test contactor 1 and / or a support element 110, as described herein and as particularly in connection with the Fig. Items 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 19 are shown and described.

[0283] The support element 110 allows the contact elements 8 to be advantageously protected, in particular by connecting the support element 110 from below in the top-bottom direction H with the insert section 20, and in particular essentially from below, thereby further advantageously improving the durability of the contact elements 8 and, accordingly, of the test contactor 1.

[0284] The use of a support element 110, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. 20b, may in particular include the following steps: S410: Detaching the support element 110 from the test contactor 1; S420: Positioning a printed circuit board 2 at the test contactor 1; and S430: Connecting the support element 110 to the test contactor 1, such that the circuit board 2 is supported by the support element 110 in a test state of the test contactor 1.

[0285] Steps S410, S420, and S430 can be performed in precisely this order. The use of the support element 110 can refer in particular to an insert 40, as described herein and especially in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19 and 20a are shown and described.

[0286] As shown in the flowcharts in the Fig. 20a and Fig. As highlighted in 20b, the present support element 110 is advantageously designed to be functionally integral both for protecting contact elements 8, particularly in the transport state of the test contactor 1, and for supporting a printed circuit board 2, particularly in the test state of the test contactor 1, wherein a pressure section 80 presses a test element 10 against the contact elements 8, and the contact elements 8 in turn presses against the printed circuit board 2.

[0287] Furthermore, the present support element 110 facilitates the assembly of the test contactor 1 into the test state, since all necessary fastening elements 115 for connecting the support element 110 to the insert section 20 can already be present for connecting the support element 110 in the transport state. Accordingly, loose assembly parts or loose fastening elements 115 can be advantageously avoided.

[0288] Fig. Figure 21 shows a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a test contactor 1.

[0289] The procedure for manufacturing a test contactor 1, as exemplified in the flowchart in Fig. 21, as reproduced, may in particular include the following steps: S510: Providing an insert section 20; S520: Providing a print section 80; S530: Providing at least one pivot joint 90, which comprises an axial element 92, a restoring means 94 and a base 98, wherein the at least one pivot joint 90 is configured to pivotally couple the pressure section 80 to the insert section 20 in a restorable manner, and wherein one of the insert section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one mounting area 22, 86 for the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90, and wherein the other of the insert section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one mounting area 22, 86 for the arrangement of the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90, the mounting area 22, 86 having two stops 88, 89 for the axial element 92, which are located in the thickness direction H of one of the pressure section 80 and the insert section 20 on opposite sides of the pressure section 80 or insert section 90. 20 are arranged, with the fastening areas 22,86 of the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20, the axial element 92 and the base 98 are designed in such a way that the axial element 92 and the base 98 can be mounted on the respective fastening area 22, 86 without preload; S540: Arranging the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90 in the at least one mounting area 22, 86 of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80; and S550: Arranging the base 98 of at least one pivot joint 90 on or in the mounting area 22, 86 of the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80.

[0290] Steps S530, S540 and S550 may alternatively include, in particular: - Providing at least one pivot joint 90, which comprises an axial element 92, a restoring means 94 and a base 98, wherein the at least one pivot joint 90 is configured to pivotally couple the pressure section 80 to the insertion section 20 in a restorable manner, and wherein one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening area 22, 86 for the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90, and wherein the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening area 22, 86 for the arrangement of the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90, - preload-free arrangement of the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90 in the at least one fastening area 22, 86 of the one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80; and - pre-tension-free arrangement of the base 98 of at least one pivot joint 90 on or in the fastening area 22, 86 of the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80.

[0291] Steps S510, S520, S530, S540, and S550 can be performed in whole or in part, and in particular in this exact order. The fabrication of test contactor 1 can refer in particular to a test contactor 1 as described herein and as particularly in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20a and 20b are shown and described.

[0292] The test contactor 1 produced in this way is, in particular, a test contactor 1 which can advantageously be mounted without preload. In other words, the test contactor 1 produced in this way is, in particular, an easily mountable test contactor 1, especially an easily mountable, restorable test contactor 1, and especially one that protects contact elements 8. Reference symbol list 1 test contactor 2 circuit boards 5 Test area 8 Contact element 10 Test Element 12 Test module 14 Coding or coding exclusion (of the test element) 20 Insert section 22 Mounting area (of the insert section) Level 23 24 mm projection (of the insert section) 30 Frame section 32 complementary clamping device 34 complementary step-like section 40 deployment 42 Fasteners 43 Intervention section 44 Spring arm (of the fastening device) 45 Projection (of the fastener) 46 Exclusion 47 Stop section 50 insert element 51 holes (of the insert element) 52 Opening (of the insert element) 54 collars 55 Side surface (of the insert element) 56 Shoulder 57 Side surface (of the base section) 58 Pre-tensioning devices (of the application) 60 Basic section 61 holes (of the base section) 62 Opening (of the base section) 63 complementary attack (of the base section) 64 upper base section 65 lower base section 66 Coding section 67 Coding opening 68 pens 69 Connecting devices 70 Fixatives 80 Print section 81 Pressure element 82 Pre-tensioning devices (of the compression section) 83 Fixatives 84 Nut 85 Spring arm mount 86 Mounting area (of the pressure section) 87 Opening (of the mounting area) 88 first attack 89 second attack 90° swivel joint 92 Axial element 94 reserve funds 96 first spring arm (of the return mechanism) 98 sockets 100 clamping devices 110 support element 112 Lead section 114 Return section 115 Fasteners (of the support element) 116 Cavity 118 stepped contour B Latitude direction B' Latitude direction (of the print section) H Vertical direction or up-down direction H' Height direction (of the pressure section) or thickness direction (of the pressure section) L Longitudinal direction L' Longitudinal direction (of the pressure section) SA swivel axis S10-S30 Steps for using an insert S110-S120 Steps for using an insert S210-S230 Steps of a procedure for manufacturing a test contactor S310 Step to using a support element S410-S430 Steps for using a support element S510-S550 Steps of a procedure for manufacturing a test contactor z central axis Z Center

Claims

[1] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), - wherein the insert (40) comprises several contact elements (8) which are designed to electrically contact the electrically conductive test element (10) in the test state of the test contactor (1), - wherein the insert (40) is designed in multiple parts, such that the insert (40) has an upper insert element (50) facing the test element (10) in the test state and a lower base section (60) facing away from the test element (10) in the test state, - wherein the insert element (50) is attached to the base section (60) by means of an elastically restorable fastening element (42), - wherein the insert element (50) has a translational degree of freedom relative to the base section (60) essentially in the top-bottom direction (H). [2] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the insert element (50) is positively attached to the base section (60) by means of the fastening means (42). [3] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening means (42) is configured to limit the translational degree of freedom in the up-down direction (H). [4] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening means (42) is configured to provide the insert element (50) with a rotational degree of freedom substantially about the up-down direction (H), wherein the rotational degree of freedom is restricted and in particular blocked by mutually facing side surfaces (55, 57) of the insert element (50) and the base section (60). [5] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the insert element (50) is fastened relative to the base section (60) by means of a single fastening means (42). [6] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening means (42) has a stop section (47) configured to strike the base section (60) substantially in the top-bottom direction (H), and wherein the fastening means (42) has an engagement section (43) configured to penetrate the insert element (50) at least section by section and engage in a shoulder (56) of the insert element (50). [7] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 6, wherein the engagement section (43) has at least two separate arms (44) which are configured to penetrate the insert element (50) at least section by section, wherein each arm (44) has a projection (45) to engage in a shoulder (56) of the insert element (50), wherein the engagement section (43) preferably has exactly two separate arms (44) which are further preferably arranged on a substantially circular stop section (47) of the fastening means (42). [8] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the insert (40) comprises a pre-tensioning means (58) which is configured to pre-tension the insert element (50) relative to the base section (60). [9] Test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), wherein the test contactor (1) comprises: - an insert (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, -- wherein the insert (40) comprises a test area (5) to which the electrically conductive test element (10) can be attached, and - a pressure section (80) which is pivotably mounted relative to the insert (40) and which is designed to press the electrically conductive test element (10) against the multiple contact elements (8) in the test state of the test contactor (1). [10] Use of an insert (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps: - Deployment of the deployment (40); - Detaching the fastening element (42) from the insert element (50); - Removing the insert element (50) from the base section (60).

Images