Massive interconnection device

Abstract

A connection device for large-scale interconnects provides an apparatus and method for changing test adapters used in testing applications. The connection device for large-scale interconnects includes interchangeable test adapters (ITAs) (2) and a locking mechanism (4). The locking mechanism (4) includes a plunger (5) having a plunger head (6) at a first end of the plunger, a leaflet insert (10) disposed on the plunger (5), a sleeve (12) disposed on the leaflet insert (10), an over-dead point (ODC) link (8) connected to the plunger (5) at a second end of the plunger opposite to the first end, and a rotatable handle (9) connected to the ODC link (8). When the user rotates the rotatable handle (9), the plunger (5), leaflet insert (10), and sleeve (12) of the locking mechanism (4) engage or disengage the ITA (2).

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 340,071, filed May 10, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] Exemplary embodiments relate to a bonding device used in large-scale interconnects. Specifically, exemplary embodiments relate to a bonding device that provides a simplified method for connecting a test adapter interconnect panel to a device under test (DUT). Background Technology

[0004] Automated Test Equipment (ATE) is used to verify the design and functionality of electronic devices. An ATE may include electronic instruments that connect to the DUT and use different interconnects between the ATE and the DUT. Test adapters provide direct connection to the DUT. Test adapters can be wired directly to measuring instruments or connected to intermediate connectors. Intermediate connectors can be individual or grouped with electromechanical devices to engage individual connectors. This type of intermediate device is often referred to as a large-scale interconnect. Large-scale interconnects provide a quick way to replace test adapters for other test applications. Depending on the DUT requirements, large-scale interconnects come in different sizes and configurations.

[0005] The information disclosed in this background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background of the inventive concept, and therefore, the information may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art in this country. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An exemplary embodiment provides a bonding device for a large-scale interconnect system that simplifies the process of connecting and disconnecting interchangeable test adapters (ITAs) to facilitate efficient and reliable testing of electronic devices. The bonding device includes an ITA and a locking mechanism, which together ensure secure connection and ease of use. The interconnect panel is separate from the bonding device itself, allowing for the flexibility to use different interconnect panels within the same ATE system.

[0007] An exemplary embodiment provides a large-scale interconnection engagement device including interchangeable test adapters (ITAs) and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a plunger (the plunger having a plunger head at a first end), a leaflet insert disposed on the plunger, a sleeve disposed on the leaflet insert, an over-dead point (ODC) link connected to the plunger at a second end, and a rotatable handle connected to the ODC link. When a user rotates the rotatable handle, the plunger, leaflet insert, and sleeve of the locking mechanism can engage or disengage with the ITA.

[0008] An exemplary embodiment also provides a locking mechanism for engaging and disengaging with an interchangeable tool assembly (ITA). The locking mechanism includes a plunger and a plurality of leaflets, the plunger having a plunger head at a distal end of the plunger, and each of the leaflets having a locking tab at its tip, the leaflets being arranged on the plunger. Each locking tab has a 45° angled surface, and the plunger head has an inner surface having complementary 45° angles, the inner surface filling the space between the locking tabs at the 45° angled surfaces of the locking tabs.

[0009] An exemplary embodiment also provides a method of engaging an engagement device including an interchangeable test adapter (ITA) comprising a locking bushing and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a plunger (the plunger having a plunger head at a first end), a leaflet insert (the leaflet insert including a locking tab and a leaflet disposed on the plunger), a sleeve (the sleeve being disposed on the leaflet insert), an over-dead point (ODC) link (the ODC link being connected to the plunger at its second end), and a handle (the handle being connected to the ODC link). The method includes a user rotating the handle 90° from an unlocked position to a locked ODC position, wherein the locking mechanism locks with the ITA during the full 90° rotation of the handle.

[0010] The engagement device allows for quick and safe engagement and disengagement of the ITA, significantly reducing setup time and ensuring reliable connection during testing. The interchangeable nature of the ITA enables compatibility with a wide range of test configurations and electronics, making the engagement device a universal and essential tool for effective and accurate testing.

[0011] Other aspects will be set forth in the following detailed description and will become apparent in part from this disclosure, or may be learned by practicing the inventive concept. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an engagement device including a locking mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of the locking mechanism.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of the locking mechanism.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism.

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Exploded side view of the locking mechanism.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Inserted sectional view of the locking mechanism.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an engagement device including a locking mechanism according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded 3D view of the locking mechanism.

[0021] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A 3D view of the locking mechanism.

[0022] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism.

[0023] Figure 11 yes Figure 7 Exploded side view of the locking mechanism.

[0024] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 Inserted sectional view of the locking mechanism.

[0025] Figure 13 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B , Figure 16 , Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 18 and Figure 19 This is a view illustrating the engagement / disengagement process of an engagement device according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0026] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be implemented without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. This disclosure may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0027] In the accompanying drawings, dimensions and relative dimensions of layers, regions, etc., may be enlarged for clarity and descriptive purposes. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly connected to, or attached to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. However, when an element or layer is stated as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers present.

[0028] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture, other than those depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would be oriented as “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both orientations of above and below. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms. Furthermore, when used in this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including” specify the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0030] It will be understood that while the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0031] Given the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), the terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein include stated values ​​and mean within an acceptable deviation range of a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0033] The joining device according to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure is designed for applications requiring more I / O and a more compact size than existing solutions. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the bonding device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment has an interchangeable test adapter (ITA) 2 and a receiver 3. The interchangeable test adapter 2 is configured to be attached to a test fixture, and the receiver 3 is configured to be wired to a test instrument designed for desktop and rack-mount applications.

[0034] While the engagement device 1 according to this exemplary embodiment is characterized by a manually operated, linkage-based over-dead-point locking mechanism 4, the locking mechanism of the engagement device according to other exemplary embodiments can be directly attached to a pneumatic cylinder, thereby allowing the engagement device to be used in a fully automatic setting. A parallel locking mechanism 4 with handles connected via a handle can be used to engage the ITA 2, ensuring that the two handles move together. This synchronized movement ensures that the surfaces of the ITA 2 and the receiver 3 remain substantially parallel during engagement and disengagement processes.

[0035] The engagement device 1 according to this exemplary embodiment includes a locking mechanism 4, which relies on plunger-driven motion to engage and disengage the ITA from the receiver. Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the locking mechanism 4 includes a plunger 5 with a head 6, the plunger 5 being connected to a plunger base 7 on the opposite side of the plunger head 6. The plunger base 7 is connected to an over-dead point (ODC) link 8, and the ODC link 8 is also connected to a rotatable handle 9.

[0036] The locking mechanism 4 further includes a leaflet insert 10 press-fitted into the sleeve 12, the leaflet insert 10 being disposed above the plunger 5. A leaflet 11 is disposed at the end of the leaflet insert 10, the leaflet 11 having a locking tab 11a at its tip. The leaflet insert 10 may be made of thin metal, which allows the locking tab 11a to easily snap into / eject from the locking bushing 13. In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the locking bushing 13 may be 0.025 inches smaller than the outer diameter of the locking tab 11a on the leaflet. The leaflet 11 may bend inward to enter / exit the locking bushing 13, but firmly grips when the plunger 5 is in the locked position (e.g., ...). Figure 6 (As shown).

[0037] The plunger 5 is configured to engage and disengage the leaflet 11 from the locking bushing 13 positioned in the ITA 2. During engagement, as described in detail below, once the plunger 5 engages with the ODC link 8 at the over-dead position, the plunger 5 is in a locked position and prevents the leaflet 11 from bending inward, and pulls the receiver 3 to engage with the ITA 2.

[0038] The plunger head 6 fills the space between the leaflets 11 to prevent the leaflets 11 from slipping out of the locking bushing 13 when the locking mechanism 4 engages and locks. Figure 6As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plunger head 6 may have a 0.030-inch portion having the same diameter as the spindle of the plunger 5, and this portion is arranged after the recessed portion in the plunger 5 and before the angled surface of the plunger head 6 that matches the angle on the locking tab 11a. When the locking tab 11a engages or disengages from the locking bushing 13, the recessed portion allows the leaflets 11 to bend inward. Thus, the plunger head 6 fills the space between the leaflets 11. The plunger head 6 may have a 45° angle to smoothly transmit force from the plunger 5 to the locking bushing 13 with minimal strain in the leaflets 11. The plunger 5, ODC link 8, rotatable handle 9, and sleeve 12 can withstand virtually all the forces required to engage and disengage the ITA 2 (i.e., approximately 90% or more). Leaflet 11 does not experience significant stress during the engagement / disengagement process because the locking tab 11a at the tip of leaflet 11 transmits force directly from plunger 5 to locking bushing 13 during engagement.

[0039] Therefore, the leaflets 11 can withstand no significant longitudinal forces when not in simultaneous contact with the plunger head 6 and the locking bushing 13. Only strain may occur in the leaflets 11 as they bend inwards when inserted into the locking bushing 13 on the ITA2. According to an exemplary embodiment, the leaflets 11 allow for 0.025 inches of interference when the plunger 5 is in the locked position. For example, when the plunger 5 is in the engaged position, filling the interior of the leaflets 11, the diameter of the locking tab 11a can be 0.025 inches larger than the opening of the locking bushing 13. The leaflet insert 10 can be protected from bending to a point of plastic deformation by the shaft of the plunger 5 internally and the protective sleeve 12 externally (in which the leaflet insert 10 is press-fitted).

[0040] The locking mechanism 4 also includes a ball plunger 14 that provides resistance to keep the sleeve 12 fully forward until engaged by the plunger 5, thereby ensuring that the locking mechanism 4 is not locked when attempting to clamp into the locking bushing 13. A spring plunger 15 can apply pressure to keep the plunger 5 forward while mating with the locking bushing 13, preventing the locking mechanism 4 from locking before being acted upon by the ODC link 8 and the rotatable handle 9. The elements of the locking mechanism 4 described above can be enclosed or partially enclosed within a body having a first body section 16a and a second body section 16b. According to an exemplary embodiment, the engagement device 1 has an adjustable positioning 17 with 0.075-inch space to allow the locking mechanism 4 to move forward or backward for adjusting the engagement depth.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, the coupling device 101 in Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in the figure. The engagement device 101 according to this exemplary embodiment may be substantially similar in various respects to that described in relation to this application. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The described joining device 1, and its disclosure, are incorporated herein by reference, and for the sake of brevity, any repeated disclosure may be omitted. Similarly, regarding Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The disclosure of the described coupling device 101 is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiments described.

[0042] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the locking mechanism 104 according to an exemplary embodiment includes several key components and assembly steps. First, the handle 109 is connected to the over-dead point (ODC) link 108 using a first locating pin (not shown). The ODC link 108 has a "zigzag" shape that allows the handle 109 to hinge without interference from the first locating pin around which the handle 109 rotates. Next, the ODC link 108 is connected to the plunger base 107 via a second locating pin (not shown), and the plunger 105 is screwed onto the threads on the plunger base 107 until the plunger 105 is flush with the plunger base 107. A thread-locking band or coating may be used to prevent the plunger 105 from unscrewing from the plunger base 107 during repeated cycles.

[0043] The locking mechanism 104 also includes a leaflet insert 110 press-fitted into the sleeve 112, which then floats above the plunger 105 between the plunger base 107 and the plunger head 106. Once the plunger 105 is screwed onto the plunger base 107, the sleeve 112 can move laterally along the plunger 105 within a range of about 0.050 inches to about 0.055 inches. This range of lateral movement allows a leaflet 111, attached to the front of the leaflet insert 110, to close freely above the plunger 105, while the locking tab 111a of the leaflet 111 locks outward when the angled portion of the plunger head 106 encounters an angled portion on the inside of the locking tab 111a.

[0044] For example, such as Figure 12 As shown in detail above, the plunger 105 can have a diameter smaller than the inner diameter between the leaflets 111. When the angled portion of the plunger head 106 meets the corresponding angled portion on the inner side of the locking tab 111a, the locking tab 111a abuts against the locking bushing 113 and locks outward. As described above... Figures 1 to 6 As described in the exemplary embodiment, when the plunger 105 is in the engaged position, the diameter of the locking tab 111a can be 0.025 inches larger than the opening of the locking bushing 113. The leaflet insert 110 can be protected from bending to a point of plastic deformation by the shaft of the plunger 105 inside and the protective sleeve 112 outside (in which the leaflet insert 110 is press-fitted).

[0045] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown in detail, the leaflet 111 may have a tapered, increased thickness in the thickened portion where the leaflet 111 connects to the locking tab 111a. The thickened portion of the leaflet 111 corresponds to the area where the leaflet 111 extends above the recessed portion of the plunger 105, which has a smaller diameter than the rest of the plunger 105. When the plunger 105 is in the engaged position, the thickened portion can further protect the leaflet 111 from outward bending if the plunger 105 retracts into the sleeve 112. This can sometimes occur, for example, when the sleeve 112 remains fixed, due to misaligned ITA 102 (where only one set of leaflets 111 engages with the locking bushing 113).

[0046] The entire locking mechanism 104 assembly (including at least the ODC link 108, plunger base 107, plunger 105, leaflet insert 110, leaflet 111, and sleeve 112) is then enclosed within a body having a first body section 116a and a second body section 116b. A handle 109 is connected to the body using a first locating pin about which it rotates. A first cylindrical channel in the body constrains the plunger 105 to linear horizontal movement, with a tight clearance around the sleeve 112. The bodies can be fastened together using connectors such as screws.

[0047] like Figure 10 As shown, a smaller second cylindrical channel in the body accommodates a spring (not shown) and a spring plunger 115. The spring rests loosely on the thinner end of the spring plunger 115, and both components are loaded into the assembly body, with the thicker end of the spring plunger 115 loaded first. A retaining screw (not shown) inserted behind the spring into the body secures the spring and spring plunger 115 in place, and allows the spring to be compressed and pressure applied to the flange of the plunger base 107 to hold the plunger 105 forward without any other force on the handle 109.

[0048] The spring-loaded ball plunger 114 is screwed into the top of the body, so that when the locking mechanism 104 is in the open position, the ball of the ball plunger 114 can rest in the groove on the sleeve 112, such as... Figure 10 As shown. This holds the sleeve 112 in place until the angled portion of the plunger head 106 makes angular contact with the inside of the leaflet 111. The ball plunger 114 holds the sleeve 112 in the retracted position, preventing friction between the plunger 105 and the sleeve 112, and pulls the sleeve 112 back before the leaflet 111 is locked outward by the plunger head 106. This design prevents the leaflet 111 from slipping out of the locking bushing 113 (or "grip") of the ITA 102 during engagement.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism 104 can operate in four main steps. First, during the attachment process, the ITA 102 slides onto the tool pins of the leaflet 111 / sleeve 112 and receiver 103. The leaflet 111 collapses inward and then springs back to the open position once they have moved past the locking bushing 113. Second, during the engagement process, the handle 109 is pulled back by the user until it stops, causing the handle 109 to rotate approximately 90°, which in turn pulls the plunger 106 back via the plunger base 107 and ODC link 108.

[0050] An angled surface on the rear of the plunger head 106 contacts an angled surface on the inner side of the locking tab 111a, preventing the leaflet 111 from collapsing inward again. When the handle 109 pulls back the plunger 105, the plunger 105 simultaneously pulls back the sleeve 112. The angled surface on the rear of the locking tab 111a contacts an angled surface on the distal side of the locking bushing 113. The plunger 105 pulls the leaflet 111, which in turn pulls the locking bushing 113, thereby pulling the ITA 102 closer to the receiver 103.

[0051] Once the handle 109 is fully pulled back (rotated 90°) and the sleeve 112 approaches or contacts the backstop inside the locking mechanism 104, the electrical contacts of the ITA 102 and receiver 103 can be fully engaged. The handle 109 is aligned with the plunger 105, providing over-dead point (ODC) locking to prevent any movement on the ITA 102 side from disengaging from the engagement contacts.

[0052] Third, during the disengagement process, the lever 109 moves forward, pushing the plunger 105 and sleeve 112 forward and disengaging the ITA 102 from the receiver 103. The plunger 105 is pushed forward until the plunger head 106 loses contact with the leaflet 111. The plunger 105 then continues to move forward until the plunger base 107 pushes forward the base of the sleeve 112. The rounded shoulder at the front of the sleeve 112 contacts the proximal side of the locking bushing 113, pushing the ITA 102 away from the receiver 103. The locking mechanism 104 then returns to the open position, and the ITA 102 rests again on the tool pin of the sleeve 112 / leaflet 111 and receiver 103.

[0053] Finally, during the removal process, ITA 102 is pulled out as the angled surface on the distal side of locking bushing 113 compresses leaflet 111. Once leaflet 111 has a sufficiently small outer diameter to slide out of locking bushing 113, ITA 102 can be completely removed from receiver 103.

[0054] Figure 13 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B , Figure 16 , Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 18 and Figure 19 The image illustrates the engagement and disengagement process of an engagement device according to an exemplary embodiment. The engagement device of this exemplary embodiment can be used in conjunction with the above-described engagement process. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The described joining device 1 is substantially the same, and its disclosure is incorporated herein by reference; for the sake of brevity, any duplicate disclosure may be omitted. The joining device of this exemplary embodiment is similar in various respects to the joining... Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The described engagement device 101 is substantially similar, and the disclosure of this exemplary embodiment is incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] During the engagement process of the engagement device according to this exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 13 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B and Figure 16As shown, the plunger can travel 0.350 inches during a full 90° rotation of the handle. For example, the handle can begin in a vertical mating position and rotate 90° to the locked ODC position during engagement. All angles, not zero or 90°, can fluctuate within a range of approximately + / - 3°, depending on the tolerances and positioning of the components in the locking mechanism assembly.

[0056] During the first docking step (90°), such as Figure 13 As shown, the locking mechanism is in the unlocked / open position and can be freely inserted into the locking bushing of the ITA. First, the user aligns the tool pin with the corresponding bushing. Then, the user slides the ITA and receiver side together until resistance is encountered, indicating that the locking tab has been compressed and engaged in the appropriate position inside the locking bushing.

[0057] In the second docking step (rotating the handle 87°-85°), as Figure 14A and Figure 14B As shown, the locking mechanism is in the locked position. The plunger head can be positioned between the leaflets to keep them open, but the locking tab may not contact the rear of the locking bushing. Throughout this exemplary embodiment, as Figure 13 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A , Figure 15B and Figure 16 As shown, the internal structure of the ITA (including the locking bushing and the portion inserted into the ITA such as the locking mechanism) is shown in dashed lines.

[0058] During the engagement step (rotation of the handle from 85° to 76°), such as Figure 15A and Figure 15B As shown, the ODC linkage pushes the plunger 0.050 inches into the locked position, preventing the leaflet from compressing inward. For example, when the user begins to pull the handle back, the sleeve of the locking mechanism can be held in place by the ball plunger until the 45° face of the main plunger contacts the corresponding edge of the leaflet. The rear of the locking tab can contact the locking bushing in the ITA, and the plunger head pulls the locking bushing through the material of the locking tab to begin joining the ITA and receiver together.

[0059] During the 76°–0° rotation of the handle, the plunger travels an additional 0.300 inches into the engaged / locked ODC position, and the ODC linkage is in the over-dead position. The plunger pulls the ITA and receiver together for full engagement. In the engaged position, as... Figure 16 As shown, the plunger head completely fills the space between the leaflets, preventing them from bending inward, and the locking tabs can contact the locking bushing, as... Figure 6As shown. When the handle is aligned parallel to the substrate of the engagement device, the contacts are fully engaged. In an embodiment, over-dead-point locking prevents the ITA from being pulled away from the receiver side until the engagement device is intentionally disengaged.

[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment, the disengagement process of the engagement device can occur in the reverse order of the engagement process described above, such as... Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown. Figure 17A and Figure 17B As shown, when the handle moves from the 0° locked position to the unlocked position (27°-35° of handle rotation), the plunger loses contact with the leaflet and the plunger base begins to push against the bottom of the sleeve. The plunger head can avoid the leaflet, allowing the leaflet to collapse inward as the ITA is pulled open, and the receiver and ITA are held together only by the force from the engaging contact.

[0061] During the intermediate disengagement step, as the plunger base moves through the locking bushing (handle rotation 33°–51°), the plunger base pushes the sleeve forward, initially removing the locking tab from contact with the distal side of the locking bushing until the shoulder on the front of the sleeve contacts the receiver-facing side of the locking bushing. When the handle moves towards the disengagement position (… Figure 18 As shown in the 51° movement, the shoulder at the end of the sleeve pushes against the locking bushing and overcomes the force that holds the contacts together and pushes the ITA and receiver apart. The shoulder on the front of the sleeve contacts the receiver-facing side of the locking bushing in the ITA and begins to separate the ITA from the receiver side, thereby disengaging the contacts.

[0062] When the handle reaches... Figure 19 In the forward position (90° perpendicular to the substrate), as shown, the sleeve is held rearward by the front inner surface of the body, thus the leaflet can no longer slide over the plunger head, releasing the leaflet to bend inward and slide out of the locking bushing. The sleeve can then be held in place again by the ball plunger, and the inner surface of the body prevents the sleeve from moving forward further. The spring plunger presses the plunger forward to keep the mechanism unlocked, so the ITA side can be removed from the receiver.

[0063] While certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will become apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to these embodiments, but is limited to the broader scope of the claims and various apparent modifications and equivalent arrangements.

Claims

1. A bonding device for large-scale interconnection, the bonding device comprising: Interchangeable test adapters; as well as Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: A plunger, the plunger including a plunger head located at a first end of the plunger; Leaflet insert, the leaflet insert being disposed on the plunger; A sleeve, the sleeve being disposed on the leaflet insert; A dead-point linkage, the dead-point linkage being connected to the plunger at a second end opposite to the first end; and A rotatable handle is connected to the over-dead-point linkage. When the user rotates the rotatable handle, the plunger, leaflet insert, and sleeve of the locking mechanism engage or disengage from the interchangeable test adapter.

2. The coupling device according to claim 1, further comprising a leaflet connected to the leaflet insert, wherein, The plunger head fills the space between the leaflets to prevent the leaflets from sliding out of the locking bushing of the interchangeable test adapter when the locking mechanism engages and locks with the interchangeable test adapter.

3. The joining device according to claim 2, wherein, The over-dead-point linkage, the rotatable handle, and the sleeve bear approximately all the forces required to engage or disengage the interchangeable test adapter.

4. The coupling device according to claim 3, wherein, Locking tabs, each located at the end of the leaflet, transmit force directly from the plunger to the locking bushing when the interchangeable test adapter is engaged.

5. The coupling device according to claim 4, wherein, When there is no simultaneous contact between the leaflet, the plunger head, and the locking bushing, the leaflet does not experience significant longitudinal force.

6. The coupling device according to claim 2, wherein: The plunger further includes a recessed portion having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the remaining portion of the plunger; and Each leaflet includes a thickened portion corresponding to a region in which the leaflet extends above the recessed portion of the plunger, the thickened portion having a tapered, increased thickness.

7. The coupling device according to claim 6, wherein, When the plunger engages with the interchangeable test adapter, the thickened portions of the leaflets protect the leaflets from bending.

8. A locking mechanism for engaging and disengaging interchangeable tool assemblies, the locking mechanism comprising: A plunger having a plunger head positioned at a distal end of the plunger; Multiple leaflets, each of the multiple leaflets having a locking tab at the tip of the leaflet, the multiple leaflets being arranged on the plunger; Each of the locking tabs has a 45° angled surface, and the plunger head has an inner surface with complementary 45° angles, which fill the space between the locking tabs at the 45° angled surfaces of the locking tabs.

9. The locking mechanism according to claim 8, wherein, The plunger head smoothly transmits force from the plunger to the locking bushing of the interchangeable tool assembly while having minimal strain among the plurality of leaflets.

10. The locking mechanism according to claim 9, wherein, The locking mechanism further includes: Leaflet insert, the leaflet insert being disposed on the plunger, the plurality of leaflets being connected to the leaflet insert; A sleeve, the sleeve being disposed on the leaflet insert; A dead-point linkage, the dead-point linkage being connected to the plunger at a second distal end opposite to the distal end of the plunger; and A rotatable handle is connected to the over-dead-point linkage. When the user rotates the rotatable handle, the plunger, the plurality of leaflets, the leaflet insert, and the sleeve of the locking mechanism engage or disengage from the interchangeable tool assembly.

11. A method of engaging a coupling device, the coupling device comprising: Interchangeable test adapters, the interchangeable test adapters including locking bushings; as well as Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising: A plunger, the plunger including a plunger head located at a first end of the plunger, A leaflet insert, including a locking tab, is disposed on the plunger. A sleeve, the sleeve being disposed on the leaflet insert, A dead-point linkage, the dead-point linkage being connected to the plunger at a second end opposite to the first end, and... The handle is connected to the dead-point linkage. The method includes a user rotating the handle 90° from the unlocked position to the locked over-dead position, wherein the locking mechanism locks with the interchangeable test adapter during the full 90° rotation of the handle.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein: In the first engagement step, the handle begins in the vertical engagement position and the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position; The user slides the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism together, causing the locking tab to be compressed into the position inside the locking bushing; as well as A space is formed in the locking mechanism between the leaflet and the plunger head, thereby allowing the user to freely insert the locking mechanism into the locking bushing.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: In the second engagement step, the user rotates the handle from 87° to 85°; and The plunger head is positioned between the leaflets to keep the leaflets open and prevent the locking tab from contacting the locking bushing.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein: In the third engagement step, the user rotates the handle from 85° to 76°; The over-dead-point connecting rod pushes the plunger into the locked position, thereby preventing the leaflet from compressing inward; as well as The locking tab contacts the locking bushing, and the plunger head pulls the locking bushing and the locking tab, thereby pulling the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism together.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein: The user rotates the handle from 85° to 76°. The plunger travels to the locked over-dead position, and the over-dead link is in the over-dead position; as well as The plunger pulls the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism together for full engagement of the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein: In the locked over-dead position, the plunger head completely fills the space between the leaflets, thereby preventing the leaflets from bending inward; as well as In the locked over-dead position, the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism remain fully engaged until the user disengages the interchangeable test adapter and locking mechanism.

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