Multi-transmission stage tester system

Abstract

A multi-transfer stage tester system according to some embodiments includes an entry point, an exit point, a first transfer stage having a first elevation, and at least one additional transfer stage, wherein the first elevation is different from the at least one additional elevation. The multi-transfer-stage tester system further includes at least one environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform environmental conditioning on the unit under test; and at least one test station configured to perform at least one test on the unit under test.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application serial number 18 / 077,869, filed December 8, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a multi-transport level tester system. More particularly, example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a multi-transport level tester system configured to test a unit under test (UUT), such as, for example, a semiconductor-based power module. Background Art

[0004] The tester system includes components for performing various tests on the UUT. For example, tests are performed on semiconductor-based power modules to confirm that the power modules are functioning properly after the manufacturing and production process.

[0005] The components included in the tester system may include multiple test stations and other components that perform tests under different conditions to determine whether the performance of each UUT under the test conditions is acceptable or rejected. For example, the components of the test system can be configured in a linear dimension parallel to a single level of the floor of a manufacturing plant. Therefore, the floor space occupied by such a tester system is generally the same as or greater than the sum of the area of the components and the interconnections between the components of the tester system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to some embodiments, a multi-transport level tester system includes an entry point, an exit point, a first transport level having a first elevation, and a second transport level having a second elevation, wherein the first elevation is different from the second elevation. The multi-transport level tester system further includes a first environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a first environmental conditioning on a UUT, a second environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a second environmental conditioning on the UUT, and a first test station configured to perform a first test on the UUT.

[0007] The entry point may be adjacent to the exit point. The multi-transfer level tester system may further include: a first end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a first side of the multi-transfer level tester system; and a second side of the multi-transfer level tester system. The multi-transfer level tester is configured between the first end and the second end and between the first side and the second side.

[0008] The entry point and the exit point may be configured at one or more of the first end, the second end, the first side, and the second side, and at least one of the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

[0009] The first elevation and the second elevation may be substantially elevations between a first end and a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system, respectively.

[0010] The first elevation may have a variable elevation within the first conveying stage.

[0011] The second elevation may have a variable elevation within the second conveying stage.

[0012] The entry point may be configured to receive the UUT and include a first transfer device configured to handle one or more levels.

[0013] The entry point may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport level, and the first transport device may be configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels within the second transport level.

[0014] The entry point may be configured to receive the UUT in the first transport level, and the first transport device may be configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels within the first transport level.

[0015] The first transfer apparatus may include a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move a UUT from the at least one shelf toward the first test station.

[0016] The first test station may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0017] The first test station may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0018] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0019] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0020] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage and output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0021] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT and may include a second transport apparatus having one or more levels, the second transport apparatus may be configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels.

[0022] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage, and the second transport device may be configured to output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0023] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage, and the second transfer device may be configured to output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0024] The first environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage, and the second transport device may be configured to output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0025] The second transfer equipment may include at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward the output end of the first environmental conditioning chamber.

[0026] The first environmental conditioning chamber may include an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

[0027] The second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0028] The second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage and output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0029] The multi-transfer stage tester system may further include a third transport stage having a third elevation, and the second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT in the third transport stage.

[0030] The second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT and may include a third transport device having one or more levels. The third transport device may be configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels.

[0031] The second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage, and the third transfer device may be configured to output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0032] The second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage, and the third transfer device may be configured to output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0033] The multi-transport level tester system may further include a third transport level having a third elevation, and the second environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the UUT in the second transport level, and the third transfer device may be configured to output the UUT in the third transport level.

[0034] The third transfer equipment may include at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the first transport level.

[0035] The third transfer equipment may include at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the second transport level.

[0036] The third transfer equipment may include at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward the output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the third transport level.

[0037] The second environmental conditioning chamber may include an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

[0038] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a second test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transfer level.

[0039] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a second test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transfer level.

[0040] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a third test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transfer level.

[0041] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a third test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transfer level.

[0042] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a fourth test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transfer level.

[0043] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include a fourth test station that may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transfer level.

[0044] The multi-transfer level tester system may further include: a third transport level having a third elevation; and a third test station configured to receive the UUT in the second transport level and output the UUT to the third transport level.

[0045] The exit point may be configured to output the UUT and may include a fourth transfer device having one or more levels.

[0046] The exit point may be configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transport level, and the fourth transfer device may be configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels within the first transport level.

[0047] The fourth transfer apparatus may include a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move a UUT from the at least one shelf toward an output of the exit point.

[0048] The multi-conveyor level tester system may include a linear footprint that is approximately 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least the entry point, the exit point, the first environmental conditioning chamber, the second environmental conditioning chamber, and the first test station in one conveyor level.

[0049] The UUT may include a semiconductor-based power module.

[0050] Some embodiments of a multi-transfer level tester system include an entry point, at least one exit point, a first transport level having a first elevation, and at least one additional transport level having at least one additional elevation. The first elevation is different from the at least one additional elevation. The multi-transfer level tester system further includes: at least one environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform environmental conditioning on a plurality of units under test; and at least one test station configured to perform at least one test on the plurality of units under test.

[0051] The entry point and the at least one exit point may be configured at one or more of the first end, the second end, the first side, and the second side, and at least one of the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

[0052] The first elevation and the at least one additional elevation may each be substantially an elevation between a first end and a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

[0053] The first elevation may have a variable elevation within the first conveying stage.

[0054] The at least one additional elevation may have a variable elevation within the at least one additional conveying stage.

[0055] The entry point may be configured to receive the unit under test and may include a first transfer device configured to handle one or more levels.

[0056] The entry point may be configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the first transfer device may be configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the at least one additional conveying stage.

[0057] The entry point may be configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying level, and the first transfer device may be configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying level.

[0058] The first transfer device may include a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move a unit under test from the at least one shelf toward the first test station.

[0059] The first test station may be configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

[0060] The first test station may be configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transfer stage.

[0061] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

[0062] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional transport stage and output the unit under test in the first transport stage.

[0063] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test in the first transport stage and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transport stage.

[0064] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test and may include a second transport device having one or more levels, the second transport device configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels.

[0065] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the second transfer device may be configured to output the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage.

[0066] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the second transfer device may be configured to output the unit under test in the first conveying stage.

[0067] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may be configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying stage, and the second transfer device may be configured to output the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage.

[0068] The second transfer device may include at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (v) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward an output end of the at least one environmental conditioning chamber.

[0069] The at least one environmental conditioning chamber may include an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

[0070] The at least one exit point may be configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first conveying level, and the fourth transfer device may be configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying level.

[0071] The fourth transfer apparatus may include a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move the unit under test from the at least one shelf toward an output end of the exit point.

[0072] The multi-conveyor level tester system may include a linear footprint that is approximately 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least the entry point, the at least one exit point, the at least one environmental conditioning chamber, and the first test station in one conveyor level.

[0073] Additional features, advantages, and aspects of the present disclosure may be set forth or become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. In addition, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary and the following detailed description of the present disclosure include examples and are intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the present disclosure as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The accompanying drawings (which are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification) illustrate aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. No attempt is made to show structural details of the present disclosure in more detail than may be necessary for a basic understanding of the present disclosure and the various ways in which the present disclosure may be practiced. In the drawings:

[0075] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a multi-transfer level tester system 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] Figure 2A and 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of a first environmental conditioning chamber including a transfer apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] Figure 2C and 2D is a schematic diagram illustrating other example embodiments of a transport device for a first environmental conditioning chamber according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] Figure 3A and 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of a second environmental conditioning chamber including a transfer apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] Figure 3C and Figure 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating other example embodiments of a transfer device for a second environmental conditioning chamber according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0080] Figures 4A-4C are schematic diagrams illustrating further exemplary embodiments of conveyor configurations of transfer equipment of the first environmental conditioning chamber and / or the second environmental conditioning chamber, respectively, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0081] Figures 5A-5C Another example embodiment of a transport apparatus for a first environmental conditioning chamber according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0082] Figures 6A-6C Another example embodiment of a transport apparatus for a second environmental conditioning chamber according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0083] Figure 7 Illustrated are example embodiments of transfer equipment for entry points and / or exit points according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0084] Figure 8-12 is a block diagram of other example embodiments of a multi-transfer level tester system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085] Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating a top view of an example embodiment of a multi-transfer level tester system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] Figures 14A-14F is a diagram illustrating some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 13 A block diagram of a top view of an example embodiment of entry points and exit points of a multi-transfer level tester system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Embodiments of the inventive concepts are more fully explained with reference to the non-limiting aspects and examples described and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the description below. It should be noted that the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that features of some embodiments may be adopted in conjunction with other aspects that a skilled person will recognize, even if not explicitly set forth herein. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques may be omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure. The examples used herein are intended only to facilitate understanding of the manner in which the present disclosure may be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, the examples and aspects herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined solely by the appended claims and applicable law. In addition, it is noted that like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

[0088] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. can be used to describe various elements in this article, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the first element, the first transmission level, or the first elevation can be referred to as the second element, the second transmission level, or the second elevation, and similarly, the second element, the second transmission level, or the second elevation can be referred to as the first element, the first transmission level, or the first elevation. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of the items listed in one or more associations.

[0089] It will be understood that when an element, such as a component, region, layer, level, or level, is referred to as being "in" or "on" another element, it may be directly on or directly onto the other element, or there may be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or "directly onto" another element, there are no intervening elements. Similarly, it will be understood that when an element, such as a component, region, layer, level, or level, is referred to as being "on" another element or extending "over" another element, it may be directly on or directly onto the other element, or there may be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or extending "directly onto" another element, there are no intervening elements. It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0090] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one component, element, layer, region, tier or level to another component, element, layer, region, tier or level, as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that these terms, as well as those discussed above, are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0091] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well. It will be further understood that when used herein, the terms "comprise," "comprising," "include," and / or "including" specify the presence of the set forth features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0092] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such herein.

[0093] The use of floor space for the tester system is inefficient and expensive. In addition, the throughput time and capacity number of UUTs handled may be limited. The capacity of UUTs handled by the tester system is based in part on the number of UUTs that can fit in the tester system. Such limitations on floor space usage, throughput and / or capacity may result in increased costs and delays in ensuring that an acceptable number of UUTs are reliable and meet test requirements; and identifying a number of UUTs that fail to meet test requirements and, therefore, whether there are manufacturing issues (one or more) for which remedial action may be desired.

[0094] The present disclosure is directed to a multi-transfer level tester system configured to implement testing and test conditions of UUTs that reduces the floor space occupied by the tester system. In addition, some embodiments increase the throughput and capacity of tested UUTs and, therefore, reduce the amount of time required to determine whether a UUT meets or fails the tests implemented in the multi-transfer level tester system.

[0095] Existing tester systems include various tests for determining the performance or characteristics of UUTs. Tests may include, but are not limited to, high temperature tests, ambient temperature tests, alternating current (AC) / direct current (DC) test capabilities at high temperatures and / or at ambient temperatures, switch tests, high potential (HiPot) tests, weight control tests, optical inspection tests, International Organization for Standardization (ISO tests), etc. UUTs may not meet one or more test standards and are therefore identified as discarded UUTs. Lack of the ability to efficiently use the floor space occupied by existing tester systems configured with a single elevation linear dimension. In addition, lack of the ability to utilize such systems to accelerate the identification of acceptable UUT quantities and discarded UUT quantities.

[0096] In some embodiments, a multi-conveyor tester system including the present disclosure can reduce the amount of floor space occupied by the components of the multi-conveyor tester system by about 30% to about 70% (or more). In addition, in some embodiments, the multi-conveyor tester system includes (one or more) transport devices (having multiple levels within the entry and exit points), the first environmental conditioning chamber, and / or the second environmental conditioning chamber, allowing for reduced throughput and greater capacity for UUTs.

[0097] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a multi-transport level tester system, the multi-transport level tester system comprising an entry point, an exit point, a first transport level having a first elevation, and a second transport level having a second elevation, wherein the first elevation is different from the second elevation. The multi-transport level tester system further comprises: a first environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a first environmental conditioning on a UUT; a second environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a second environmental conditioning on the UUT; and a first test station configured to perform a first test on the UUT.

[0098] In some embodiments, the multi-transfer level tester system further includes a first end of the multi-transfer level tester system, a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system, a first side of the multi-transfer level tester system, and a second side of the multi-transfer level tester system. The multi-transfer level tester is disposed between the first end and the second end, and between the first side and the second side.

[0099] The multi-conveyor level tester system may further include vision-based components, laser marking components, weigh stations, etc., incorporated into the interior of the conveyor levels or as part of the configurable implementation of entry and exit points.

[0100] Figure 1is a block diagram illustrating an example multi-transfer level tester system 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ease of discussion, the example embodiments herein are discussed with reference to a multi-transfer level tester system configured to test a UUT including a semiconductor-based power module (e.g., a silicon carbide (SiC) power module). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the multi-transfer level tester system can be configured to test (including but not limited to) the following additional examples of UUTs: medical components / equipment, electronic components, computer components, consumer products, other semiconductor devices, etc. In addition, although certain example embodiments are discussed herein with reference to a first environmental conditioning chamber as a heating chamber and a second environmental conditioning chamber as a cooling chamber, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the first environmental conditioning chamber can be a cooling chamber or other temperature conditioning chamber, and the second environmental conditioning chamber can be a heating chamber of the other temperature conditioning chamber.

[0101] Although test stations of example embodiments that can perform certain tests on a UUT at different temperatures (e.g., room temperature and elevated temperature) are discussed herein, other test stations and components may be included. For example, a test station may be included that performs other tests, including but not limited to the following additional test examples: other tests of weight, optical, electrical, or other performance characteristics of the UUT, etc.

[0102] Note also that the multi-transfer level tester system 100 is merely an example and may be modified consistent with the various aspects disclosed herein. For example, the positioning of the components of the multi-transfer level tester system 100 may be modified to be in various different locations at multiple different transfer levels and / or at different elevations within a transfer level, as discussed further herein. Figure 1 and Figure 8-12 Furthermore, the components and number of components of the multi-transfer level tester system 100 may be modified to have a larger number than the Figure 1 The multi-conveyor tester system may have more or fewer components than those illustrated in the examples, and may have components that implement different test conditions, procedures, and / or different tests consistent with the various aspects disclosed herein. For example, a multi-conveyor tester system may have any number N of conveyor stages greater than two and any number N of components greater than one (e.g., one environmental conditioning chamber, three environmental conditioning chambers, one test station, five test stations, one weigh station, etc.), which may be configured according to the specific tests and procedures to be performed using the multi-conveyor tester system.

[0103] As shown in the figure, Figure 1 The multi-transfer level tester system 100 depicted in the example of FIG includes components configured in a first transfer level and in a second transfer level. Figure 1In the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the first transport stage includes: inputs to the system input terminal 102 and entry point 106 in the first transport stage; inputs and outputs to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (e.g., a heating chamber); a portion of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (e.g., a heating chamber); inputs and outputs to the third test station 120; outputs to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (e.g., a cooling chamber); outputs to the system output terminal 104; and inputs to (one or more) discarded UUTs 108b. The second transport stage includes: outputs to the exit point 106; inputs and outputs to the first test station 112; inputs and outputs to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114; inputs and outputs to the second test station 116; and inputs to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118.

[0104] like Figure 1 As shown in the example, Figure 1 In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from an elevation of approximately ground level to an elevation corresponding to approximately the height of the person shown; and the second conveyor level extends from an elevation at approximately the height of the person shown to an elevation corresponding to the height of the tallest component in the second conveyor level. Figure 1 The heights of the components illustrated in the second conveying level are approximately the same, but in practice, the heights of the components included within a conveying layer may vary at different elevations within a conveying level.

[0105] In addition, if Figure 1 As illustrated in and discussed further herein, the inputs / outputs of the various components within the transport stage may be at substantially the same elevation, as illustrated by the arrows in the second transport stage depicting the flow of the UUT(s) into entry point 106, into and out of the first test station 112, into and out of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, into and out of the second test station 116, and into the second environmental conditioning chamber 118. Figure 1 As further illustrated in FIG, the inputs / outputs of various components within a transport stage may be at different elevations, as illustrated by the arrows in the first transport stage depicting the flow of UUT(s) exiting the second environmental conditioning chamber 118, entering / exiting the third and fourth test stations 120, 122, and exiting the exit point 108a, the discarded UUT(s) 108b, and the system output 104.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first elevation of the first transfer stage and the second elevation of the second transfer stage are substantially elevations between the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer stage tester system, respectively.

[0107] In some embodiments, the first elevation of the first conveying stage has a variable elevation within the first conveying stage. In some embodiments, the second elevation of the second conveying stage has a variable elevation within the second conveying stage.

[0108] Discuss Now Figure 1 An example embodiment of a multi-transfer level tester system 100 is provided in which the multi-transfer level tester system 100 is configured to perform various tests on semiconductor-based power modules at different temperatures. UUT(s) comprising semiconductor-based power module(s) are input to a system input 102 via a transport mechanism, such as a conveyor. The system input 102 is connected to an entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUT. As further discussed herein, in some embodiments, the entry point is configured to receive the UUT and includes a first transport device having one or more levels. As Figure 1 As shown in this example, the entry point 106 is configured to receive (one or more) UUTs in the first conveyor level and output (one or more) UUTs in the second conveyor level. The entry point 106 is further configured to output (one or more) UUTs onto a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor (which may include any mechanism for transporting, such as a conveyor belt, a Ferris wheel conveyor, etc.) or a multi-axis end effector), and the transfer mechanism inputs (one or more) UUTs to the first test station 112 located in the second conveyor level. In an example embodiment, the entry point is configured to receive UUTs in the second conveyor level, and the first transfer device is configured to move the UUTs between one or more levels within the second conveyor level.

[0109] Note also that the entry and exit points of the multi-transfer level tester system 100 in the various figures herein are merely examples and may be modified consistent with the various aspects disclosed herein. Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating a top view of an example embodiment of a multi-transfer level tester system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 13 As shown in FIG, there may be an "integrated" entry and exit point 1300 (e.g., instead of Figure 1-12 The integrated entry and exit points 1300 may include one entry point / exit point component or separate components for entry points and exit points at approximately the same location in the multi-transport level tester system 100, such as, for example, in FIG. Figure 13 The robot 1302 may be positioned within the entry and exit points 1300 to route UUT(s) into and out of the multi-conveyance tester system 100 , which may also include routing discarded UUT(s) out of the multi-conveyance tester system 100 .

[0110] Figures 14A-14F is a diagram illustrating some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 13 A block diagram of a top view of an example embodiment of an entry point and exit point of a multi-transfer level tester system. Figure 14A As shown in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input terminal on a first side of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output terminal on a second side of the entry and exit point 1300 opposite the first side (which may include an output for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0111] like Figure 14B As shown in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input terminal on a first end of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output terminal on a first end of the entry and exit point 1300 (which may include an output terminal for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0112] In another example, Figure 14C As shown in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input terminal on a first side of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output terminal on a first end of the entry and exit point 1300 (which may include an output terminal for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0113] exist Figure 14D In yet another example shown in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input on a first end of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output on a second side of the entry and exit point 1300 (which may include an output for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0114] like Figure 14E As shown in the example in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input port on a first side adjacent to a first end of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output port on a first side adjacent to a second end of the entry and exit point 1300 (which may include an output port for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0115] In another example, Figure 14F As shown in , the entry and exit point 1300 may include an input terminal on a first side adjacent to a first end of the entry and exit point 1300, and an output terminal on a first side adjacent to the input terminal of the entry and exit point 1300 (which may include an output terminal for (one or more) discarded UUTs).

[0116] In some examples, entry and exit points may also be configured on any of multiple transmission levels, including on the same transmission level, or the entry point may be on one transmission level and the exit point may be on another transmission level.

[0117] In some examples, the exit point may include multiple exit points to route the UUT(s) to different locations throughout the multi-transport level system based on test results.

[0118] In some embodiments, the exit point includes a conveyor that moves the passed UUT(s) and the failed UUT(s) to different locations in the multi-transport level tester system, and picks up / receives the next component of the UUT(s) in transit.

[0119] The first test station 112 is a room temperature HiPot test station in this example, which tests (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules at approximately room temperature and high voltage to determine whether the semiconductor-based power modules meet electrical safety tests (e.g., dielectric strength and insulation resistance tests). Upon completion of the tests in the first test station 112, a transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules to the input end of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, which is a heated chamber in this example. In an example embodiment, the first test station is configured to receive and output UUTs in a second transport stage.

[0120] like Figure 1 As illustrated in the example embodiment of , the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 is configured to receive and output (one or more) UUTs in the second transport stage. The first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (e.g., a heating chamber) is a closed or partially closed chamber (e.g., an insulating chamber) that is configured to be maintained at a desired temperature. When the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 is a heating chamber, it can be configured to provide the desired temperature using a heated surface and / or radiant heating and / or conductive heating. The first environmental conditioning chamber 114 may further include a second transport device having multiple levels, the second transport device being configured to move (one or more) UUTs between the levels during environmental conditioning. In an example embodiment, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive UUTs and includes a second transport device having one or more levels, wherein the second transport device is configured to move UUTs between one or more levels. In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive UUTs in the second transport stage, and the second transport device is configured to output UUTs in the second transport stage.

[0121] exist Figure 1 In the example of , once the UUT(s) are heated to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) are moved from the output of the first environmental conditioning chamber in the second transport level to the input of a second test station 116 in the second transport level on a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor belt) having independent environmental control and monitoring devices (for fine adjustment).

[0122] The second test station 116 is an elevated temperature DC test station in this example that tests (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules at elevated temperatures to measure various characteristics of the semiconductor-based power modules at elevated temperatures and high voltage / high current. Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules to an input end of a second conveyor stage in a second environmental conditioning chamber 118, which is a cooling chamber in this example. For example, in some embodiments, the multi-conveyor stage tester system further includes a second test station configured to receive and output UUTs in the second conveyor stage.

[0123] like Figure 1 As illustrated in the example embodiment of , the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 is configured to receive (one or more) UUTs in the second transport stage and output (one or more) UUTs in the first transport stage. The second environmental conditioning chamber 118 is a closed or partially closed environment (in this example, it is configured to provide a cold surface and / or airflow to provide radiative cooling and / or conductive cooling); and includes a third transport device having multiple levels, which is configured to move UUTs between the levels during environmental conditioning (e.g., cooling in this example). In some embodiments, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive UUTs in the second transport stage, and the third transport device is configured to output UUTs in the first transport stage.

[0124] In this example, once the UUTs are cooled to approximately a desired ambient temperature (as discussed further herein), the UUT(s) are moved on a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) from the output of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the first transport level to a third test station 120 that is configured to receive the UUTs in the first transport level, but at a different elevation in the first transport level than the output of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118. In some embodiments, the multi-transport level tester system further includes a third test station that is configured to receive and output the UUTs in the first transport level.

[0125] In this example, the third test station 120 is an ambient temperature AC test station that tests (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules at ambient temperature to measure various characteristics of the semiconductor-based power modules at high voltage / high current at ambient temperature. Upon completion of the test at the third test station 120, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules to the input end of the fourth test station 122 in the first transport stage. In some embodiments, the multi-transport stage tester system further includes a fourth test station configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0126] The fourth test station 122 is an ambient temperature DC test station in this example, which tests (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules at ambient temperature to measure various characteristics of the semiconductor-based power modules at high voltage / high current at ambient temperature. When the test in the fourth test station 122 is completed, the transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the (one or more) semiconductor-based power modules that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a (the exit point 108a is configured in the first transfer stage (but in the example Figure 1 ) receives and outputs UUT(s) at different elevations shown in ), and moves the semiconductor-based power module(s) that fail to meet one or more of the various tests to a scrap UUT assembly 110 (which is configured to receive UUT(s) at yet another elevation in the first transfer stage).

[0127] As discussed further herein, the exit point 108a may include a fourth transport device having multiple levels of UUTs within the exit point 108a. The UUTs are output from the exit point 108a onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism provides the UUTs to the system output 104, which is configured to receive and output the UUT(s) in the first transport level.

[0128] In some embodiments, the exit point is configured to output the UUT and includes a fourth transport device having one or more levels. In some embodiments, the exit point is configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transport level, and the fourth transport device is configured to move the UUT between one or more levels within the first transport level.

[0129] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, entry point 106 may be adjacent to point 108a. In some embodiments, the entry point is adjacent to the exit point. In other embodiments, the entry point and the exit point are at one of the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber and the second environmental conditioning chamber each include an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature, (ii) atmospheric conditions, (iii) humidity, (iv) electromagnetic radiation, and (v) pressure. For example, the environmental conditioning chamber may have an environmental controller that controls the temperature (e.g., hot or cold) and the inert gas environment (e.g., nitrogen) within the chamber.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber and / or the second environmental conditioning chamber comprises a heating chamber. In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber and / or the second environmental conditioning chamber comprises a cooling chamber.

[0132] Some embodiments of a multi-transfer stage tester system include an entry point, an exit point, a first transport stage having a first elevation, and at least one additional transport stage having at least one additional elevation. The first elevation is different from the at least one additional elevation. The multi-transfer stage tester system further includes: at least one environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform environmental conditioning on a plurality of units under test; and at least one test station configured to perform at least one test on the plurality of units under test in the environmental conditioning chamber.

[0133] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 including the second transfer apparatus 200 . Figure 2A An example is shown in which the input 202 and output 204 of the first environmental conditioning chamber are on the same side of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, but at different elevations within the transfer stage(s). Figure 2B An example is shown in which the input 202 and output 204 are on opposite sides of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, but at approximately the same elevation within the transport stage. The direction and / or elevation at which the UUTs 208a...208n exit from the interior of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 can be adjusted by selecting the location at which the UUTs 208a...208n exit from the second transport apparatus 200.

[0134] refer to Figure 1 In the example shown in FIG, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves UUTs 208a...208n from the output of the first test station 112 to the input 202 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 before arriving inside the first environmental conditioning chamber 114. Optionally, the input 202 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 can include an airlock 210a. The first environmental conditioning chamber 114 can also include first environmental conditioning elements (e.g., heating elements) 206a, 206bm (e.g., adjacent to the input 202 and output 204 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, respectively) to, for example, raise and / or maintain the interior of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 to approximately a desired temperature, such as the heating elements. A temperature probe 212 can be included to ensure that the UUTs 208a...208n adjacent to, for example, the output 204 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 are at approximately the correct temperature (e.g., the substrate temperature of a semiconductor-based power module). Optionally, the output 204 can also include an airlock 210b.

[0135] exist Figure 2A 、 2B In the example, the second transfer device 200 inside the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 is a conveyor, for example, the conveyor can be implemented using a belt and a motorized roller. Figure 2A and2B As depicted in FIG, the second transfer apparatus 200 has a plurality of levels configured to transfer UUTs 208a..208n between the levels, for example, during heating. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 5 , once the UUTs are heated to about the desired temperature, the UUT(s) are moved from the output 204 of the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0136] Figure 2C and 2D 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of the second transfer device 200 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114. Figure 2A and 2B Features similar to those described in . Figure 2C 、 2D In the example of FIG, the second transfer device 200 inside the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 is a conveyor that includes an initial conveyor belt length adjacent to an input end 202, transitions to a conveyor chain drive having a "chair lift" type platform, and then transitions to another length of conveyor belt adjacent to an output end 204. Near the top level of the transfer device 200, a pusher 212 may be included that is configured to move the UUTs 208a...208n off their respective platforms and onto the final length of the conveyor. Figure 2C and 2D As depicted in FIG, for example, the second transport apparatus 200 has multiple levels and is configured to move UUTs 208a...208n between the levels during heating. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , once the UUTs are heated to about the desired temperature, the UUT(s) are moved from the output 204 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0137] Figure 3A and 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 including the third transfer apparatus 300 . Figure 3A An example is shown in which the input 302 and output 304 of the second environmental conditioning chamber are on the same side of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118, but at different elevations within the transfer stage(s). Figure 3BAn example is shown in which the input end 302 and the output end 304 are on opposite sides of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118, but at approximately the same elevation of the transport stage. The direction and / or elevation at which the UUTs 208a...208n exit from the interior of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 can be adjusted by selecting the location at which the UUTs 208a...208n exit from the third transport device 300.

[0138] exist Figure 1 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n from the output of the second test station 116 to the input 302 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 before arriving inside the second environmental conditioning chamber 118. Optionally, the input 302 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 may include an airlock 310a. The second environmental conditioning chamber 118 may also include second environmental conditioning elements (e.g., cooling elements) 306a, 306b (e.g., adjacent to the input 302 and output 304 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118, respectively) to, for example, reduce and / or maintain the interior of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to approximately a desired temperature. A temperature probe 312 may be included to ensure that the UUTs 208a...208n adjacent to the output 304 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 are at approximately the correct temperature (e.g., the substrate temperature of a semiconductor-based power module). Optionally, the output 304 may also include an airlock 310b.

[0139] exist Figure 3A 、 3B In the example, the third transfer device 300 inside the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 is a conveyor, for example, the conveyor can be implemented using a belt and a motorized roller. Figure 3A and 3B As depicted in FIG, the third transfer apparatus 300 has multiple levels and is configured to transfer UUTs 208a..208n between the levels, for example, during cooling. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 5 , once the UUTs are cooled to approximately the desired temperature, the UUT(s) are moved from the output 304 of the second environmental conditioning chamber to the third testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0140] Figure 3C and 3D 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of the third transfer device 300 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118. Figure 3A and 3B Features similar to those described in . Figure 3C 、 3DIn the example of FIG. 1 , the third transfer device 300 inside the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 is a conveyor that includes an initial conveyor belt length adjacent to an input end 302, transitions to a conveyor chain drive having a “chair lift” type platform, and then transitions to another length of conveyor belt adjacent to an output end 304. Near the top level of the third transfer device 300, a push rod 312 may be included that is configured to move the UUTs 208a...208n off their respective platforms and onto the final length of the conveyor. Figure 3C and 3D As depicted in FIG, for example, the third transport apparatus 300 has multiple levels and is configured to move UUTs 208a...208n between the levels during cooling. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 5 , once the UUTs are cooled to approximately the desired temperature, the UUT(s) are moved from the output 304 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the fourth testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0141] Figures 4A-4C Three exemplary embodiments of conveyor configurations of the second transfer apparatus 200 and / or the third transfer apparatus 300 are illustrated, respectively. Figure 4A , UUTs 208a . . . 208n are illustrated on a conveyor having a shuttle conveyor configuration (eg, a spiral configuration). Figure 4B An example is shown of UUTs 208a ... UUTs 208n on a conveyor in a spiral configuration about a central axis. Figure 4C Another example of UUT 208a...UUT 208n on a conveyor configured in a spiral around a central axis is shown. Figures 4A-4C Regardless of the number of multiple levels of the conveyor configuration, these conveyor configurations can be configured to occupy approximately the same floor area as a single level of an existing linear configuration tester system. Therefore, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the total capacity of UUTs processed can be increased.

[0142] Figures 5A-5C Another example embodiment of a second transfer apparatus 200 of the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 is illustrated. Figure 5A . . . is a side view of the second transfer apparatus 200 including shelves that hold UUTs 208a . . . 208n inside the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 at multiple levels. Figure 5B 208 n is an end view of the second transfer apparatus 200 , which includes (1) shelves at multiple levels configured to hold UUTs 208 a . . . 208 n , and (2) an end effector 500 . Figure 5C208n, and (2) an end effector 500. The end effector 500 may be attached to a robot and configured to grab a UUT 208 from an end of a shelf (e.g., as Figure 5B The end effector 500 may be any suitable end effector, including but not limited to a gripper, a suction member, etc. In some embodiments, a multi-axis robotic arm with an end effector (e.g., which may include 3 or more axes (e.g., including a rotational axis) is used. Figure 5B The YZ gantry with the end effector 500 is shown in FIG. Figure 5C Best illustration, regardless Figures 5A-5C Regardless of the number of multiple levels of the second transporter 200, such a second transporter configuration can be configured to occupy approximately the same floor area as a single level plus the gantry / robot of an existing linearly configured tester system. Therefore, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the total capacity of UUTs processed can be increased.

[0143] In some embodiments, the second transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward the output end of the first environmental conditioning chamber.

[0144] Figures 6A-6C Another example embodiment of a third transfer apparatus 300 of the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 is illustrated. Figure 6A is a side view of a third transfer apparatus 300 that includes shelves that hold the UUTs 208a . . . 208n inside the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 at multiple levels. Figure 6B 208 n is an end view of the third transport apparatus 300 , which includes (1) shelves at multiple levels configured to hold UUTs 208 a . . . 208 n , and (2) an end effector 600 . Figure 6C 208n, and (2) an end effector 600. The end effector 600 may be attached to a robot and configured to grab a UUT 208 from an end of a shelf (e.g., as Figure 6BThe end effector 600 may be any suitable end effector, including but not limited to a gripper, a suction member, etc. In some embodiments, a multi-axis robotic arm with an end effector (e.g., which may include 3 or more axes (e.g., including a rotational axis) is used. Figure 6B The YZ gantry with the end effector 600 is shown in FIG. Figure 6C Best illustration, regardless Figures 6A-6C Regardless of the number of multiple levels of the third transporter 300, such a third transporter configuration can be configured to occupy approximately the same floor area as a single level plus the gantry / robot of an existing linear tester system. Therefore, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the total capacity of UUTs processed can be increased.

[0145] In some embodiments, the third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the first transport level.

[0146] Figure 7 An example embodiment of a first transfer device for entry point 106 and / or exit point 108a is shown. UUTs can be moved between multiple levels within entry point 106 and / or exit point 108a on a tray that holds UUTs fed upward from one level to another, and a robotic end effector can pick up and place the corresponding UUT. For example, Figure 7 A side view of a first transfer apparatus 700 is illustrated. The first transfer apparatus 700 includes: (1) a conveyor 706 that enters an entry point 106 or an exit point 108a; (2) shelves / trays 702 that hold UUTs 208a...208n inside the entry point 106 and / or exit point 108a at multiple levels; (3) a robotic end effector 704 that can be used to place UUTs 208a...208n into and / or remove them from packaging; and (4) a conveyor 708 that leaves the entry point 106 or exit point 108a. The end effector 704 can be attached to the robot and configured to grab a UUT 208 from a shelf / tray at the top level of a multi-level shelf / tray position. The end effector 704 can be any suitable end effector, including but not limited to a gripper, a suction piece, etc. In some embodiments, a multi-axis robotic arm with an end effector (e.g., which can include any of 3 axes of motion or more) is used. As shown by Figure 7As shown, regardless of the number of multiple levels of the third transporter 700, such a third transporter configuration can be configured to occupy approximately the same floor area as a single level plus the gantry / robot of an existing linearly configured tester system. Therefore, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the total capacity of UUTs processed can be increased.

[0147] In some embodiments, the input of the entry point may be fed by a conveyor from a previous production step without an end effector or pallet.

[0148] In some embodiments, the first transport device is a multi-axis robot and / or an inspection system (eg, to identify the UUTs) during transport of the UUT(s) on their way to the testing station.

[0149] Although not in Figure 7 , but the entry point may include a conveyor, gantry, and / or multi-axis robot that transfers the UUT(s) (e.g., to the first test station 112 under viewing by an optional camera system).

[0150] In some embodiments, the first transport apparatus includes a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move a UUT from the at least one shelf toward the first test station.

[0151] In some embodiments, the fourth transport apparatus includes a shelf system having one or more levels for at least one shelf and an end effector configured to move a UUT from the at least one shelf toward an output of an exit point.

[0152] Figure 8-12 is a block diagram of another example embodiment of a multi-transfer level tester system 100, and Figure 1 Compared to the example of FIG. 1 , the multi-transfer level tester system 100 has its components located in alternative locations within the multi-transfer level tester system. Therefore, for ease of discussion, no further discussion will be made herein regarding the multi-transfer level tester system. Figure 8-12 Repeat the above for Figure 1 Components discussed are similar and have the same reference numbers and / or features of the flow of UUT(s) through the multi-transport tester system.

[0153] Now refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 Another example diagram of a multi-transfer stage tester system 100 is shown, which includes at least two transfer stages: a first transfer stage and a second transfer stage.

[0154] exist Figure 8In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the multi-transfer level tester system 100 includes components configured in a first transfer level and in a second transfer level, as shown. Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the first transmission stage includes: input to system input 102 and input to entry point 106; input and output for fourth test station 122; input and output for third test station 120; output from second environmental conditioning unit 118; input and output for exit point 108a; input to system output 104; and input to (one or more) discarded UUTs 108b. The second transmission stage includes: output from entry point 106; input and output of first test station 112; input to first environmental conditioning chamber 114; input and output for second test station 116; and input to second environmental conditioning chamber 118.

[0155] like Figure 8 As shown in the example, Figure 8 In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from approximately ground level to an level corresponding to approximately the height of the illustrated person; and the second conveyor level extends from an level at approximately the height of the illustrated person to an level corresponding to the height of the tallest component in the second conveyor level.

[0156] exist Figure 8 In the example of FIG, the flow of (one or more) UUTs 208a...208n through the multi-transport level tester system 100 is as follows. (One or more) UUTs 208a...208n are input to the system input terminal 102 via a transport mechanism (such as a conveyor). The system input terminal 102 is connected to the entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUTs. As discussed herein, the entry point 106 may include multiple levels for the UUTs inside the entry point 106. In this example, the UUTs 208a...208n are output from the entry point 106 onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism inputs the UUTs 208a...208n to the first test station 112.

[0157] Upon completion of testing in the first test station 112, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a . . . 208n to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (which includes the second transfer apparatus 200).

[0158] Once the UUTs are heated, eg, to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0159] Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (which includes a third transfer apparatus 300).

[0160] Once the UUTs are cooled, eg, to approximately a desired temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the third testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0161] Upon completion of testing in the third test station 120 , a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208 a . . . 208 n to the fourth test station 122 .

[0162] Upon completion of testing in the fourth test station 122, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208a...208(n) that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a, and moves the UUT(s) 208a...208n that do not meet one or more of the various tests to a discarded UUT assembly 108b.

[0163] As discussed further herein, the exit point 108a may include multiple levels for the UUTs within the exit point 108a. Figure 8 . . 208n are output from the exit point 108a onto another transport mechanism (eg, a conveyor), and the transport mechanism provides the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n to the system output 104.

[0164] exist Figure 9 In the example of FIG, the multi-transfer level tester system 100 includes components configured in a first transfer level and in a second transfer level, as shown. Figure 9 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the first transmission stage includes: input to entry point 106; input and output for fourth test station 122; input and output for third test station 120; output from second environmental conditioning unit 118; input and output for exit point 108a; and input to (one or more) discarded UUTs 108b. The second transmission stage includes: output from entry point 106; input and output for first test station 112; input and output for first environmental conditioning chamber 114; input and output for second test station 116; and input to second environmental conditioning chamber 118.

[0165] like Figure 9 As shown in the example, Figure 9In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from approximately ground level to an level corresponding to approximately the height of the illustrated person; and the second conveyor level extends from an level at approximately the height of the illustrated person to an level corresponding to the height of the tallest component in the second conveyor level.

[0166] exist Figure 8 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the flow of UUT(s) 208a...208n through the multi-transport level tester system 100 is as follows. UUT(s) 208a...208n are input to the entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUTs. As discussed herein, the entry point 106 may include multiple levels for the UUTs within the entry point 106. In this example, the UUTs 208a...208n are output from the entry point 106 onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism inputs the UUTs 208a...208n to the first test station 112.

[0167] Upon completion of testing in the first test station 112, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a . . . 208n to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (which includes the second transfer apparatus 200).

[0168] Once the UUTs are heated, eg, to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0169] Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (which includes a third transfer apparatus 300).

[0170] Once the UUTs are cooled, eg, to approximately a desired temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the third testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0171] Upon completion of testing in the third test station 120 , a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208 a . . . 208 n to the fourth test station 122 .

[0172] Upon completion of testing in the fourth test station 122, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208a...208(n) that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a, and moves the UUT(s) 208a...208n that do not meet one or more of the various tests to a discarded UUT assembly 108b.

[0173] As discussed further herein, the exit point 108a may include multiple levels for the UUTs within the exit point 108a. Figure 9 , (one or more) UUTs 208a . . . 208n may be output from exit point 108a onto another transport mechanism (eg, a conveyor) outside the system.

[0174] Now refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10 Another example diagram of a multi-transfer stage tester system 100 is shown, which includes at least two transfer stages: a first transfer stage and a second transfer stage.

[0175] exist Figure 10 In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the multi-transfer level tester system 100 includes components configured in a first transfer level and in a second transfer level, as shown. Figure 10 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the first transmission stage includes: input to system input 102 and input to entry point 106; input and output to fourth test station 122; input and output to third test station 120; output from second environmental conditioning unit 118; input and output to exit point 108a; input to system output 104; and input to (one or more) discarded UUTs 108b. The second transmission stage includes: output from entry point 106; input and output to first test station 112; input and output to first environmental conditioning chamber 114; input and output to second test station 116; and input to second environmental conditioning chamber 118.

[0176] like Figure 10 As shown in the example, Figure 8 In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from approximately ground level to an level corresponding to approximately the height of the illustrated person; and the second conveyor level extends from an level at approximately the height of the illustrated person to an level corresponding to the height of the tallest component in the second conveyor level.

[0177] exist Figure 10In the example of FIG, the flow of (one or more) UUTs 208a...208n through the multi-transport level tester system 100 is as follows. (One or more) UUTs 208a...208n are input to the system input terminal 102 via a transport mechanism (such as a conveyor). The system input terminal 102 is connected to the entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUTs. As discussed herein, the entry point 106 may include multiple levels for the UUTs inside the entry point 106. In this example, the UUTs 208a...208n are output from the entry point 106 onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism inputs the UUTs 208a...208n to the first test station 112.

[0178] Upon completion of testing in the first test station 112, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a . . . 208n to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (which includes the second transfer apparatus 200).

[0179] Once the UUTs are heated, eg, to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0180] Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (which includes a third transfer apparatus 300).

[0181] Once the UUTs are cooled, eg, to approximately a desired temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the third testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0182] Upon completion of testing in the third test station 120 , a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208 a . . . 208 n to the fourth test station 122 .

[0183] Upon completion of testing in the fourth test station 122, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208a...208(n) that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a, and moves the UUT(s) 208a...208n that do not meet one or more of the various tests to a discarded UUT assembly 108b.

[0184] As discussed further herein, the exit point 108a may include multiple levels for the UUTs within the exit point 108a. Figure 10. . 208n are output from the exit point 108a onto another transport mechanism (eg, a conveyor), and the transport mechanism provides the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n to the system output 104.

[0185] Now refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 Shown is an example diagram of a multi-transfer stage tester system 100 that includes two transfer stages: a first transfer stage and a second transfer stage.

[0186] exist Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the multi-transfer level tester system 100 includes components configured in a first transfer level and in a second transfer level, as shown. Figure 11 In the example embodiment of FIG. 1 , the first transmission stage includes: input to system input 102 and input to entry point 106; output from first environmental conditioning chamber 114; input to second test station 116; output from second test station 116; input to second environmental conditioning chamber 118; input and output to exit point 108 a; and output from system output 104. The second transmission stage includes: output from entry point 106; input and output from first test station 112; input to first environmental conditioning chamber 114; output from third test station 120; input and output from fourth test station 122; and input to discarded UUT(s) 108 b.

[0187] like Figure 11 As shown in the example, Figure 11 In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from approximately ground level to an level corresponding to approximately the height of the illustrated person; and the second conveyor level extends from an level at approximately the height of the illustrated person to an level corresponding to the height of the tallest component in the second conveyor level.

[0188] exist Figure 11 In the example of FIG, the flow of (one or more) UUTs 208a...208n through the multi-transport level tester system 100 is as follows. (One or more) UUTs 208a...208n are input to the system input terminal 102 via a transport mechanism (such as a conveyor). The system input terminal 102 is connected to the entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUTs. As discussed herein, the entry point 106 may include multiple levels for the UUTs inside the entry point 106. In this example, the UUTs 208a...208n are output from the entry point 106 onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism inputs the UUTs 208a...208n to the first test station 112.

[0189] Upon completion of testing in the first test station 112, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a . . . 208n to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114 (which includes the second transfer apparatus 200).

[0190] Once the UUTs are heated, eg, to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second testing station 116 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0191] Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (which includes a third transfer apparatus 300).

[0192] Once the UUTs are cooled, eg, to approximately a desired temperature, the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n are moved from the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the third testing station 120 on a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor).

[0193] Upon completion of testing in the third test station 120 , a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208 a . . . 208 n to the fourth test station 122 .

[0194] Upon completion of testing in the fourth test station 122, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208a...208(n) that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a, and moves the UUT(s) 208a...208n that do not meet one or more of the various tests to the located discarded UUT assembly 110.

[0195] As discussed further herein, the exit point 108a may include multiple levels for the UUTs within the exit point 108a. Figure 11 . . 208n are output from the exit point 108a onto another transport mechanism (eg, a conveyor), and the transport mechanism provides the UUT(s) 208a . . . 208n to the system output 104.

[0196] Thus, in one example embodiment, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive a UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0197] In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the UUT in the first transport stage.

[0198] In some embodiments, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the UUT in the first transfer stage and output the UUT in the second transfer stage.

[0199] In some embodiments, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage, and the third transfer device is configured to output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0200] In some embodiments, the third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the second transport level.

[0201] In some embodiments, a second test station is included and configured to receive and output the UUT in the first transport stage. In some embodiments, a third test station is included and configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0202] In some embodiments, the multi-transfer level tester system further includes a fourth test station configured to receive and output the UUT in the second transfer level.

[0203] Now refer to Figure 12 , Figure 12 An example diagram of a multi-transfer stage tester system 100 is shown that includes three transfer stages: a first transfer stage, a second transfer stage, and a third transfer stage.

[0204] exist Figure 12 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the multi-transfer level tester system 100 includes components configured in a first transfer level, a second transfer level, and a third transfer level as shown. Figure 12 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , the first transport stage includes: input to system input 102; input and output from entry point 106; input and output from first test station 112; input and output to first environmental conditioning chamber 114; input to second test station 116; input to system output 104; and input and output to discarded UUT(s) 108 b. The second transport stage includes output from second test station 116; input to second environmental conditioning chamber 118; and input and output to third test station 120. The third transport stage includes output from second environmental conditioning chamber 118; and input and output to fourth test station 122.

[0205] like Figure 12As shown in the example, Figure 12 In the y-direction, the first conveyor level extends from an elevation of approximately ground level to an elevation corresponding to approximately the height of the top of second test station 116 (which is higher than the height of the person shown), and the second conveyor level extends from an elevation at approximately the height of the top of second test station 116 to a height at approximately the top of second environmental conditioning chamber 118 and the top of third test station 120. The third conveyor level extends from an elevation at approximately the top of second environmental conditioning chamber 118 and the top of third test station 120 to an elevation at approximately the top of fourth test station 122.

[0206] exist Figure 12 In the example of FIG, the flow of (one or more) UUTs 208a...208n through the multi-transport level tester system 100 is as follows. (One or more) UUTs 208a...208n are input to the system input end 102 via a transport mechanism (such as a conveyor). The system input end 102 is connected to the entry point 106, which may also include components for identifying the UUTs. As discussed herein, the entry point 106 may include multiple levels for UUTs within the entry point 106. In some embodiments, the entry point is configured to receive UUTs in a first transport level and the first transport device is configured to move the UUTs between one or more levels within the first transport level. In this example, the UUTs 208a...208n are output from the entry point 106 onto another transport mechanism (e.g., a conveyor), and the transport mechanism inputs the UUTs 208a...208n to the first test station 112.

[0207] Upon completion of testing in the first test station 112, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the first environmental conditioning chamber 114, which includes the second transfer device 200. Once the UUTs are heated, e.g., to approximately the desired elevated temperature, the UUT(s) 208a...208n are moved from the first environmental conditioning chamber to the second test station 116 on a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor).

[0208] In one example embodiment, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage and output the UUT in the second transport stage. In some embodiments, the first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the UUT in the first transport stage and the second transfer device is configured to output the UUT in the second transport stage.

[0209] Upon completion of testing in the second test station 116, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUTs 208a...208n to the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 (which includes a third transfer device 300). Once the UUTs are cooled, e.g., to approximately the desired temperature, the UUT(s) 208a...208n are moved from the second environmental conditioning chamber 118 to the third test station 120 on a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor).

[0210] In one example embodiment, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive a UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT in the third transport stage. In some embodiments, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive a UUT for testing and includes a third transport device having one or more levels, wherein the third transport device is configured to move the UUT between the one or more levels. In some embodiments, the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive a UUT in the second transport stage, and the third transport device is configured to output the UUT in the third transport stage.

[0211] In some embodiments, the third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the UUT toward the output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the third transport level.

[0212] Upon completion of testing in the third test station 120 , a transfer mechanism (eg, a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208 a . . . 208 n to the fourth test station 122 .

[0213] In one example embodiment, a third test station is included and configured to receive the UUT in the second transport stage and output the UUT to a third transport stage.

[0214] Upon completion of testing in the test station 122, a transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) moves the UUT(s) 208a...208(n) that meet the various tests to the exit point 108a positioned in the first conveying level, and moves the UUT(s) 208a...208n that do not meet one or more of the various tests to the discarded UUT assembly 110 positioned below the first conveying level. For example, the transfer mechanism (e.g., a conveyor) may be outside the test station 122 that extends to and through the exit point 108a and the discarded UUT(s) 108b.

[0215] In some embodiments, the multi-transfer stage tester system comprises a linear footprint that is approximately 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least an entry point, an exit point, a first environmental conditioning chamber, a second environmental conditioning chamber, and a first test station in one transport stage. In some embodiments, the linear footprint is 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least an entry point, an exit point, a first environmental conditioning chamber, a second environmental conditioning chamber, and a first test station in one transport stage. In further embodiments, the linear footprint is 40%-60% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least an entry point, an exit point, a first environmental conditioning chamber, a second environmental conditioning chamber, and a first test station in one transport stage. In some embodiments, the linear footprint is 45%-55% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least an entry point, an exit point, a first environmental conditioning chamber, a second environmental conditioning chamber, and a first test station in one transport stage.

[0216] In some embodiments, the UUT includes a semiconductor-based power module.

[0217] Some embodiments described herein may reduce the cost, floor space, and / or time required to test and determine whether a UUT meets test requirements by providing a multi-transfer level tester system configured to implement tests and test conditions for the UUT.

[0218] Although the embodiments of the present inventive concept have been described in considerable detail with reference to certain configurations of the embodiments, other versions are possible. The multi-transfer level tester system can have many different configurations and different numbers of components. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention should not be limited to the specific embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A multi-transfer level tester system comprising: entry point; Exit point; a first conveyor level having a first elevation; a second conveyor level having a second elevation; wherein the first elevation is different from the second elevation; a first environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a first environmental conditioning on the unit under test; a second environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform a second environmental conditioning on the unit under test; and A first test station is configured to perform a first test on the unit under test.

2. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 1, wherein: The entry point is adjacent to the exit point.

3. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: a first end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a first side of the multi-transfer level tester system; as well as A second side of the multi-transfer level tester system, wherein the multi-transfer level tester is configured between the first end and the second end and between the first side and the second side.

4. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 3, wherein: The entry point and the exit point are configured at one or more of the first end, the second end, the first side, and the second side, and at least one of the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

5. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 3, wherein: The first elevation and the second elevation are substantially elevations between a first end and a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system, respectively.

6. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 3, wherein: The first elevation has a variable elevation within the first conveying stage.

7. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 3, wherein: The second elevation has a variable elevation within the second conveying stage.

8. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 1, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test and includes a first transfer device configured to handle one or more levels.

9. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 8, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying level, and the first transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the second conveying level.

10. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 8, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying level, and the first transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying level.

11. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 8, wherein: The first transfer apparatus includes a shelving system having one or more levels for at least one shelf; and an end effector configured to move a unit under test from the at least one shelf toward the first test station.

12. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 10, wherein: The first test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the second transfer stage.

13. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 10, wherein: The first test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transfer stage.

14. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 1, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the second transfer stage.

15. The multi-transfer level tester system according to claim 1, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second transfer stage and output the unit under test in the first transfer stage.

16. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first transfer stage and output the unit under test in the second transfer stage.

17. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test and includes a second transport device having one or more levels, the second transport device being configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels.

18. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 17, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the second conveying stage.

19. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 17, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the first conveying stage.

20. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 17, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the second conveying stage.

21. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 17, wherein: The second transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (v) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward an output end of the first environmental conditioning chamber.

22. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The first environmental conditioning chamber includes an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

23. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second transfer stage and output the unit under test in the first transfer stage.

24. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first transfer stage and output the unit under test in the second transfer stage.

25. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A third conveying stage having a third elevation, and wherein the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying stage and output the unit under test in the third conveying stage.

26. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test and includes a third transport device having one or more levels, the third transport device being configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels.

27. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 23, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying stage, and the third transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the first conveying stage.

28. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 23, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying stage, and the third transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the second conveying stage.

29. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 23, further comprising: A third conveying stage having a third elevation, wherein the second environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the second conveying stage, and the third transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the third conveying stage.

30. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 24, wherein: The third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (v) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the first conveying level.

31. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 25, wherein: The third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward an output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the second conveying level.

32. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 26, wherein: The third transfer equipment includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (iv) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward the output end of the second environmental conditioning chamber in the third transfer level.

33. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The second environmental conditioning chamber includes an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

34. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A second test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the second transfer stage.

35. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A second test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

36. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, further comprising: A third test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

37. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A third test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the second transmission stage.

38. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A fourth test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

39. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: A fourth test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the second transmission stage.

40. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1 , further comprising: a third conveyor level having a third elevation; as well as A third test station is configured to receive the unit under test in the second transfer stage and output the unit under test to the third transfer stage.

41. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The exit point is configured to output the unit under test and includes a fourth transfer device having one or more levels.

42. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 41, wherein: The exit point is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first conveying stage, and the fourth transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying stage.

43. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 41, wherein: The fourth transfer apparatus includes a shelving system having: one or more levels for at least one shelf; and an end effector configured to move the unit under test from the at least one shelf toward an output end of the exit point.

44. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The multi-conveyor level tester system includes a linear footprint that is approximately 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least the entry point, the exit point, the first environmental conditioning chamber, the second environmental conditioning chamber, and the first test station in one conveyor level.

45. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 1, wherein: The unit under test includes a semiconductor-based power module.

46. A multi-transfer level tester system comprising: entry point; at least one exit point; Abandonment point; wherein said at least one exit point has a different location than said waste point; a first conveyor level having a first elevation; at least one additional conveyor level having at least one additional elevation; wherein the first elevation is different from the at least one additional elevation; at least one environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform environmental conditioning on a plurality of units under test; and At least one test station is configured to perform at least one test on the plurality of units under test.

47. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The entry point is adjacent to the at least one exit point.

48. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: a first end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system; a first side of the multi-transfer level tester system; as well as A second side of the multi-transfer level tester system, wherein the multi-transfer level tester is configured between the first end and the second end and between the first side and the second side.

49. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 48, wherein: The entry point and the at least one exit point are configured at one or more of the first end, the second end, the first side, and the second side, and at least one of the first end and the second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

50. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 48, wherein: The first elevation and the at least one additional elevation are respectively substantially elevations between a first end and a second end of the multi-transfer level tester system.

51. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The first elevation has a variable elevation within the first conveying stage.

52. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one additional elevation has a variable elevation within the at least one additional stage.

53. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test and includes a first transfer device configured to handle one or more levels.

54. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 53, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the first transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the at least one additional conveying stage.

55. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 53, wherein: The entry point is configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying level, and the first transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying level.

56. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 53, wherein: The first transfer apparatus includes a shelving system having: one or more levels for at least one shelf; and an end effector configured to move a unit under test from the at least one shelf toward the first test station.

57. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 55, wherein: The first test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

58. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 55, wherein: The first test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transfer stage.

59. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

60. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional transport stage and output the unit under test in the first transport stage.

61. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first transport stage and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transport stage.

62. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test and includes a second transport device having one or more levels, the second transport device being configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels.

63. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 62, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage.

64. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 62, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the first conveying stage.

65. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 62, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber is configured to receive the unit under test in the first conveying stage, and the second transfer device is configured to output the unit under test in the at least one additional conveying stage.

66. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 62, wherein: The second transfer device includes at least one of the following: (i) a belt-driven conveyor; (ii) a chain-driven conveyor; (iii) a cable-driven conveyor; (iv) a 2-axis or multi-axis robot; and (v) a shelf system having corresponding shelves at levels in the one or more levels, and an end effector configured to move the unit under test toward an output end of the at least one environmental conditioning chamber.

67. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one environmental conditioning chamber includes an environmental controller configured to control at least one of: (i) temperature; (ii) atmospheric conditions; (iii) humidity; (iv) electromagnetic radiation; and (v) pressure.

68. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A second test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

69. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A second test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

70. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A third test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

71. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A third test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

72. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A fourth test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first transmission stage.

73. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: A fourth test station is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the at least one additional transfer stage.

74. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, further comprising: a third conveyor level having a third elevation; as well as A third test station is configured to receive the unit under test in the at least one additional transport stage and output the unit under test to the third transport stage.

75. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The at least one exit point is configured to output the unit under test and includes a fourth transfer device having one or more levels.

76. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 75, wherein: The at least one exit point is configured to receive and output the unit under test in the first conveying level, and the fourth transfer device is configured to move the unit under test between the one or more levels within the first conveying level.

77. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 75, wherein: The fourth transfer apparatus includes a shelving system having: one or more levels for at least one shelf; and an end effector configured to move the unit under test from the at least one shelf toward an output end of the exit point.

78. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The multi-conveyor level tester system includes a linear footprint that is approximately 30%-70% smaller than a linear arrangement of at least the entry point, the at least one exit point, the at least one environmental conditioning chamber, and the first test station in one conveyor level.

79. The multi-transfer level tester system of claim 46, wherein: The unit under test includes a semiconductor-based power module.

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