Automated cabling execution optical module testing method

Abstract

An automated, interleaved optical module testing method includes: A) a robotic arm (30) picking up a first optical module; B) the robotic arm placing the first optical module on an end-face inspection device (40), which performs end-face inspection on the first optical module; C) the robotic arm removing a second optical module that has completed testing from a tester (50) and placing the second optical module at a fiber optic insertion / removal station (60), and picking up the second optical module after the fiber optic head on the second optical module is removed; D) the robotic arm placing the first optical module at the fiber optic insertion / removal station, and inserting the first optical module into the tester after the fiber optic head is inserted; E) the robotic arm placing the second optical module in the unloading area (70) and returning to step A. This method can improve the testing efficiency of optical modules and reduce errors and labor costs associated with manual operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of optical module testing, and in particular to an automated, interleaved optical module testing method. Background Technology

[0002] An optical module is an optoelectronic device that performs photoelectric and electro-optical conversion. The transmitting end of the optical module converts electrical signals into optical signals, which are then transmitted through the fiber optic connector. The receiving end then converts the optical signals back into electrical signals. The optical module is a core component of an optical communication network, and its performance directly determines the speed and stability of the optical communication link. To ensure that the optical modules leaving the factory meet the corresponding performance standards, they must undergo a series of rigorous tests before leaving the factory.

[0003] The existing optical module testing method mainly involves manually inserting test modules into the optical module to perform performance testing. In other words, the test operator manually operates the test instrument to complete the testing process of a single optical module step by step.

[0004] In this testing method, the optical module and test module are manually plugged in and out. The force applied is difficult to control precisely, and the accuracy of manual plugging and unplugging is affected by the worker's subjective skill. Without precise control of the force and accuracy, damage to the optical module or test module is easily caused, resulting in significant human error. Furthermore, the subjective influence of the test operators' methods leads to variations in operating habits and experience, resulting in non-standardized testing procedures and inconsistent test results, thus compromising product quality. The repetitive testing steps for optical modules can cause operator fatigue, increasing the risk of errors. Moreover, due to the numerous testing items for optical modules, and the relative independence between different test items and instruments, a single operator can only operate or observe one instrument and perform one testing step at a time. This results in low testing efficiency, failing to meet the demands of mass production. Existing optical module manufacturers have to invest heavily in manpower to increase testing capacity, leading to high labor costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method is based on machine-automated execution of optical module testing, reducing errors from manual operation and ensuring the consistency of batch test results.

[0006] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method automates the optical module testing process, which helps to reduce labor costs.

[0007] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method can improve the testing efficiency of optical modules and realize batch testing of optical modules.

[0008] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method interleaved the testing process of at least two optical modules, which helps to shorten the overall testing time and improve testing efficiency.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method automatically interleaved the testing process of the optical module, reducing labor costs and human error while improving testing efficiency, and has significant commercial value.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method interleavedly executes the testing processes of at least two optical modules, that is, the start of the testing process of the next optical module does not need to wait for the end of the testing process of the previous optical module, and the testing processes of at least two optical modules can be performed in parallel at the same time, thereby improving testing efficiency.

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method is based on interleaved testing of optical modules, which can effectively reduce the idle time of testing equipment and improve resource utilization.

[0012] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method is based on interleaved testing of optical modules, enabling corresponding testing equipment to take turns testing optical modules, thereby improving the efficiency of batch testing while avoiding resource conflicts.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method is based on interleaved testing of optical modules, so that at the same time, one test station can execute the testing process of at least two optical modules, effectively improving the test throughput.

[0014] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method improves the transfer efficiency of the robotic arm to optical modules by picking up at least two optical modules with different testing progress at the same time, thereby improving the efficiency of interleaved optical module testing.

[0015] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated, interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the robotic arm includes a robotic arm and a robotic hand disposed at the end of the robotic arm, wherein the robotic hand includes at least two picking components, wherein the picking components are used to pick up optical modules, and wherein the robotic hand is capable of picking up two optical modules at different testing stages at the same time, thereby improving the transfer efficiency of the robotic arm for optical modules.

[0016] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated, interleaved optical module testing method. This method sorts optical modules based on their test results, facilitating rapid identification and processing of modules with different test results, improving work efficiency, and enabling subsequent analysis of optical modules with unqualified test results. This provides feedback for production and allows for targeted improvement measures, ultimately enhancing the product quality of optical modules.

[0017] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method can automatically process unqualified optical modules during the testing process and re-execute the testing process of the next optical module, so as to continuously perform optical module testing without human intervention.

[0018] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method can automatically sort and unload unqualified optical modules in different test items, so as to facilitate subsequent targeted analysis of optical modules that are NG in different test items, which is beneficial to take targeted measures to improve the yield and product quality of optical modules.

[0019] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaving optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaving optical module testing method cleans the fiber optic head before inserting it into the optical module to remove dust, impurities, and other contaminants that may be present in the fiber optic head, thereby avoiding contaminants from affecting the test results and damaging the optical module.

[0020] Another objective of this invention is to provide an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method identifies each optical module to facilitate subsequent analysis and tracing.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides an automated interleaved optical module testing method, wherein the automated interleaved optical module testing method includes the following steps:

[0022] A. The robotic arm picks up the first optical module;

[0023] B. The robotic arm places the first optical module on the end-face inspection device, and the end-face inspection device performs end-face inspection on the first optical module.

[0024] C. The robotic arm pulls out the second optical module that has completed the test from the self-testing instrument and places the second optical module in the fiber optic plugging and unplugging station, and picks up the second optical module after the fiber optic head on the second optical module is pulled out.

[0025] D. The robotic arm places the first optical module at the fiber optic insertion station, and inserts the first optical module into the tester after the fiber optic head is inserted into the first optical module.

[0026] E. The robotic arm places the second optical module in the unloading area and returns to step A.

[0027] In one embodiment, in step A, after the robotic arm picks up the first optical module, it moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station. After the first optical module is identified at the barcode scanning station, step B is executed.

[0028] In one embodiment, in step B, if the detection result is qualified, step C is performed; if the detection result is unqualified, the robotic arm moves the first optical module to the unloading area and returns to step A.

[0029] In one embodiment, if the end face inspection is qualified, the robotic arm picks up the first optical module, and step C is performed while the robotic arm is picking up the first optical module.

[0030] In one embodiment, if the end face inspection is qualified and before performing step D, the robotic arm picks up the first optical module and places the first optical module in the preheating station.

[0031] In one embodiment, in step D, the fiber optic insertion / removal station cleans the fiber optic head before inserting it into the first optical module.

[0032] In one embodiment, in step D, before inserting the first optical module into the tester, the robotic arm moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station, and after the first optical module is identified at the barcode scanning station, the first optical module is inserted into the tester.

[0033] In one embodiment, in step C, before the fiber optic head is pulled out of the second optical module, the fiber insertion / removal station limits and fixes the second optical module.

[0034] In one embodiment, in step D, before inserting the fiber optic head into the first optical module, the fiber insertion / removal station limits and fixes the first optical module.

[0035] In one embodiment, in step E, the robotic arm places the second optical module in different areas of the unloading area based on the test results of the second optical module.

[0036] In one embodiment, the robotic arm includes a robotic arm and a robotic hand disposed at the end of the robotic arm, wherein the robotic hand includes at least two pickups for picking up optical modules, wherein in step D, one of the pickups of the robotic hand picks up the second optical module, and the other pickup of the robotic hand picks up the first optical module.

[0037] In one embodiment, the robotic arm includes a base and a visual positioning sensor, wherein the base is connected to the end of the robotic arm, and the visual positioning sensor and each of the pickups are respectively mounted on different sides of the base.

[0038] In one embodiment, the robotic arm includes two different types of pickups, one of which is a suction gripper and the other is a grasping gripper. The suction gripper includes a first lifting device and a pair of suction cups. The first lifting device is mounted on the base, and the suction cups are mounted on the first lifting device and adapted to be driven to move up and down relative to the base by the first lifting device. The grasping gripper includes a second lifting device and a clamping claw. The second lifting device is mounted on the base, and the clamping claw is mounted on the second lifting device and adapted to be driven to move up and down relative to the base by the second lifting device. The clamping claw has a pair of gripping fingers.

[0039] In one embodiment, the robotic arm includes two grippers, both of which are of the same type.

[0040] In one embodiment, the robotic hand includes two grippers, wherein the opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of one gripper is smaller than the opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of the other gripper.

[0041] In one embodiment, the robotic arm includes a six-dimensional force sensor, which is disposed between the base and the end of the robotic arm. The bottom of the base is provided with an adsorption device for adsorbing a corresponding tray, which is used to place an optical module.

[0042] In one embodiment, the fiber optic insertion / removal station includes an optical module mounting base, a cleaning section, and a fiber optic insertion / removal socket. The optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket are arranged along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head. The optical module mounting base is vertically movable, and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket is movable along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head. The cleaning section is vertically movable between the optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket. The robotic arm places the optical module in the fiber optic insertion / removal station with the optical module positioned on the optical module mounting base. Before the fiber optic head is inserted into the optical module, the cleaning section rises between the optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket. The fiber optic insertion / removal socket moves the fiber optic head toward the cleaning section so that the fiber optic head contacts the cleaning section and is cleaned. After cleaning, the fiber optic insertion / removal socket moves away from the cleaning section, and the cleaning section descends.

[0043] In one embodiment, the optical module mounting base includes a lifting device, a lifting seat, a clamping seat, and a pressing part. The lifting seat is mounted on the lifting device and is adapted to be raised or lowered by the lifting device. The clamping seat is disposed on the lifting seat and includes two opposing limiting walls. The robotic arm places the optical module in the fiber optic insertion / removal station with the optical module positioned between the two limiting walls. The distance between the two limiting walls is adjustable for clamping the optical module. The pressing part includes a rotary lifting seat and a pressing rod. The bottom of the rotary lifting seat is mounted on the lifting seat, and the top of the rotary lifting seat has an upwardly extending rotary telescopic rod. The pressing rod is connected to the rotary telescopic rod and has an extension direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotary telescopic rod.

[0044] In one embodiment, the fiber optic plug-in socket includes a longitudinal moving base, a transverse moving base, a transverse clamping device, and a lifting unlocking device. The transverse moving base is mounted on the longitudinal moving base and moves along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head following the longitudinal moving base. The transverse clamping device is mounted on the transverse moving base and includes two clamping arms opposite each other in the transverse direction. The distance between the two clamping arms is adjustable to accommodate clamping the fiber optic head. The lifting unlocking device is jackingly mounted on the transverse moving base and is used to press down the fiber optic head clamped between the two clamping arms so that the fiber optic head can be inserted into the optical module.

[0045] In one embodiment, the unloading area includes an end-inspection NG tray, a test NG tray, and a raw material tray. The end-inspection NG tray is used to place optical modules that fail the end-inspection test, the test NG tray is used to place optical modules that fail the test by the tester, and the raw material tray is used to place optical modules that pass the test. In step B, if the end-inspection test result is unqualified, the robotic arm places the optical module in the end-inspection NG tray. In step E, based on the test result of the tester, the robotic arm places the optical module in the test NG tray or the raw material tray. In step A, the robotic arm picks up the optical module from the raw material tray, which is used to store optical modules waiting to be tested. The unloading area also includes a spare tray, which is used to be activated when one of the end-inspection NG tray, the test NG tray, and the raw material tray is full of optical modules.

[0046] The further objects and advantages of the invention will become fully apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the progress of an automated, interleaved optical module testing method based on an embodiment of the present invention within a time period.

[0048] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the automated interleaved optical module testing method according to the above embodiments of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an optical module test bench for performing the automated interleaved optical module testing method according to the above embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the robotic arm of the optical module test station according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the robotic arm of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the robotic arm of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention from another perspective.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the insertion / removal station of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 8This is a partial structural diagram of the insertion / removal station of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a partial structural diagram of the insertion / removal station of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 10 This is a partial structural diagram of the fiber optic plug and unplug socket of the plugging and unplugging station of the optical module test bench according to the above embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The following description is intended to disclose the present invention and enable those skilled in the art to implement it. The preferred embodiments described below are merely examples, and other obvious variations will occur to those skilled in the art. The basic principles of the invention defined in the following description can be applied to other embodiments, modifications, improvements, equivalents, and other technical solutions that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0058] Those skilled in the art should understand that, in the disclosure of this invention, the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the above terms should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0059] It is understood that the term "a" should be understood as "at least one" or "one or more", that is, in one embodiment, the number of an element can be one, while in another embodiment, the number of the element can be multiple, and the term "a" should not be understood as a limitation on the number.

[0060] This invention provides an automated, interleaved optical module testing method. This method interleaved the testing processes of at least two optical modules to improve testing efficiency and can be automated by machine, reducing errors and labor costs associated with manual operation. See details. Figures 1 to 10 The optical module testing progress, the steps of the automated interleaved optical module testing method, and the optical module testing platform for executing the automated interleaved optical module testing method are illustrated respectively.

[0061] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3The automated interleaved optical module testing method includes the following steps:

[0062] A. The robotic arm 30 picks up the first optical module;

[0063] B. The robotic arm 30 places the first optical module on the end-face inspection device 40, and the end-face inspection device 40 performs end-face inspection on the first optical module.

[0064] C. The robotic arm 30 pulls out the second optical module that has completed the test from the self-testing instrument 50 and places the second optical module in the fiber optic plugging and unplugging station 60, and picks up the second optical module after the fiber optic head on the second optical module is pulled out.

[0065] D. The robotic arm 30 places the first optical module in the fiber optic insertion station 60, and inserts the first optical module into the tester 50 after the fiber optic head is inserted into the first optical module.

[0066] E. The robotic arm 30 places the second optical module in the unloading area 70 and returns to step A.

[0067] Corresponding reference Figure 1 As shown, at time t1, the robotic arm 30 picks up the first optical module A, and the first optical module A begins to enter the testing phase. At this time, the second optical module AN, which entered the testing phase before the first optical module A, is still in the testing phase and has not yet finished testing. The automated interleaved optical module testing method executes steps A and B while the second optical module AN is still in the testing phase, and executes the testing process of the first optical module A, thereby realizing the time superposition of the testing processes of the first optical module A and the second optical module AN. In this way, the testing of the third optical module A+1 is started and executed while the first optical module A is still in the testing phase, and the testing of optical modules is interleaved to shorten the overall testing time.

[0068] It is understandable that, in the above description and Figure 1 In this invention, the second optical module AN represents the first N optical modules that begin testing before the first optical module A, where N is a positive integer. The third optical module A+1 represents the first optical module that begins testing after the first optical module A. It should be understood that in the description of this invention, the terms first optical module A, second optical module AN, and third optical module A+1 are used only for ease of understanding as to indicate that each optical module enters testing at a different time, and do not constitute a limitation on the type of optical module. First optical module A, second optical module AN, and third optical module A+1 can be different types / models of optical modules, or they can be the same type of optical module; this invention does not impose any limitations on this.

[0069] In other words, during the time period from t1 to t2, the automated interleaved optical module testing method interleaved the testing processes of at least two optical modules. That is, the start of the testing process of the next optical module (such as the third optical module N+1) does not need to wait for the end of the testing process of the previous optical module (such as the first optical module N). At the same time, the testing processes of at least two optical modules can be carried out in parallel, which helps to improve testing efficiency.

[0070] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 As shown, during the time period from t1 to t2, the optical module testing platform can perform tests on at least two optical modules, and one testing station can simultaneously execute the testing process of at least two optical modules, effectively improving the testing throughput of the optical module testing platform.

[0071] Furthermore, in step A, after the robotic arm 30 picks up the first optical module, it moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station 20. After the barcode scanning station 20 identifies the first optical module, step B is executed. Based on the identification of the first optical module by the barcode scanning station 20, the identity of each optical module is determined, which facilitates the tracking, management and data recording of the optical modules, and facilitates subsequent analysis and traceability.

[0072] It is worth mentioning that in step B, if the end-of-line inspection instrument 40 detects the optical module as qualified, step C is executed; if the end-of-line inspection instrument 40 detects the optical module as unqualified, the robotic arm 30 moves the first optical module to the unloading area 70 and returns to step A. In other words, the automated interleaved optical module testing method can automatically unload unqualified optical modules during the testing process and re-execute the testing process for the next optical module, so as to continuously perform optical module testing without human intervention, ensuring the continuity of the testing progress, while eliminating the human uncertainty caused by human intervention.

[0073] In particular, in some embodiments, if the detection result of the optical module by the end-of-line inspection instrument 40 is unqualified in step B, step C can be executed first, and after executing step C, step E and the first optical module can be moved to the unloading area 70, and then the process can return to step A.

[0074] It is worth mentioning that, in step D, the robotic arm 30 picks up the next optical module to be tested by the tester 50 after picking up the optical module that has finished testing. This improves the transfer efficiency of the robotic arm 30 to optical modules by picking up at least two optical modules with different testing progress at the same time, thereby improving the efficiency of interleaved optical module testing.

[0075] Specifically, refer to Figures 4 to 6 The robotic arm 30 includes a robotic arm 31 and a robotic hand 32 disposed at the end of the robotic arm 31. The robotic hand 32 includes at least two picking elements for picking up optical modules. In step D, one picking element of the robotic hand 32 picks up the second optical module, and the other picking element of the robotic hand 32 picks up the first optical module, thereby enabling the simultaneous picking up of at least two optical modules at different testing stages and improving the efficiency of interleaved optical module testing.

[0076] It is worth mentioning that each of the picking components of the robotic arm 32 can be of the same type or different types. In specific applications, the corresponding picking component can be replaced according to the type of optical module being tested. This invention does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0077] Specifically, in this embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 32 includes two types of picking components: a suction claw 324 and a gripping claw 323. The suction claw 324 picks up the optical module by adsorbing it, while the gripping claw 323 picks up the optical module by clamping it. Different models of the gripping claw 323 can be selected to be suitable for clamping different parts of the optical module. For example, in this example of the present invention, two different models of gripping claw 323 are illustrated. For clarity, one of the gripping claws 323 is designated as the first gripping claw 323A. In this example, the first gripping claw 323A is used to clamp the heat dissipation fins on the top of the optical module to pick up the optical module. The gripping claw 323A, distinct from the first gripping claw 323A, is used to clamp both sides of the optical module to pick up the optical module.

[0078] In detail, the robotic arm 32 includes a base 321 and a visual positioning sensor 322. The base 321 is connected to the end of the robotic arm 31. The visual positioning sensor 322, the suction claw 324, the gripping claw 323, and the first gripping claw 323A are respectively installed on different sides of the base 321. The visual positioning sensor 322 performs positioning by image recognition, such as determining the relative position of the optical module and the robotic arm 32, the size and angle of the optical module, and the positions of the end-of-line inspection device 40, the tester 50, the fiber optic plug-in station 60, and the unloading area 70, providing a basis for the subsequent precise gripping and movement of the optical module by the robotic arm 32.

[0079] The suction claw 324 includes a first lifting device 3241 and a pair of suction cups 3242. The first lifting device 3241 is mounted on the base 321. The suction cups 3242 are mounted on the first lifting device 3241 and adapted to be driven by the first lifting device 3241 to move up and down relative to the base 321. The gripping claw 323 includes a second lifting device 3231 and a gripper 3232. The second lifting device 3231 is mounted on the base 321. The gripper 3232 is mounted on the second lifting device 3231 and adapted to be driven by the second lifting device 3231 to move up and down relative to the base 321. The gripper 3232 has a pair of gripping fingers. The first gripping claw 323A also includes the second lifting device and the gripper. The opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of the gripper 3232A of the first gripping claw 323A is smaller than the opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of the gripper 3232 of the gripping claw 323A.

[0080] In this specific example of the present invention, in steps A and E, the robotic arm 32 picks up the optical module from the loading area and places it in the unloading area 70 by adsorbing or clamping the top of the optical module using the suction claw 324 or the first gripping claw 323A. This facilitates the removal of the optical module from a group of neatly arranged optical modules or the neat arrangement of the optical modules for unloading. In steps C and D, the robotic arm 32 grips both sides of the optical module using the gripping claw 323 to insert or remove the optical module from the testing instrument 50. This allows for adaptation to different shapes of optical modules and different processes by using different models or types of pick-up parts, thus meeting the needs of automated production.

[0081] Furthermore, the robotic arm 32 includes a six-dimensional force sensor 325, which is disposed between the base 321 and the end of the robotic arm 31 to measure the force and torque experienced by the robotic arm 32 during operation in real time, thereby achieving high-precision control and feedback, and effectively reducing the probability of damage to the optical module.

[0082] It is worth mentioning that the bottom of the base 326 is provided with an adsorption device 326, which is used to adsorb the corresponding tray. The tray is used to place the optical module. That is, the robotic arm 30 can adsorb the tray onto the optical module testing platform to realize the handling of the optical module. In actual production, the raw materials are transported to the vicinity of the optical module testing platform by an automated transport vehicle. The robotic arm 30 then adsorbs the trays containing untested optical modules from the automated transport vehicle onto the optical module testing platform. When the tested optical modules fill a tray, the optical module testing platform calls the automated transport vehicle, and the robotic arm 30 moves the trays containing the tested optical modules onto the automated transport vehicle, thus realizing a fully automated testing process.

[0083] refer to Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment of the present invention, the optical module testing platform is provided with a raw material tray 10, which stores optical modules awaiting testing. In step A, the robotic arm 30 picks up the optical modules from the raw material tray 10. The unloading area includes a finished product tray 71, an end-inspection NG tray 72, and a test NG tray 73. The end-inspection NG tray 72 is used to place optical modules that fail the end-inspection test, the test NG tray 73 is used to place optical modules that fail the test by the testing instrument, and the finished product tray 71 is used to place optical modules that pass the test. In step B, if the end-inspection test result is unqualified, the robotic arm 30 places the optical module on the end-inspection NG tray 72. In step E, based on the test results of the tester 50, the robotic arm 30 places the optical module on the test NG tray 73 or the clinker tray 71. Specifically, when the test result of the tester 50 on the optical module is qualified, the robotic arm 30 places the optical module on the clinker tray 71; when the test result of the tester 50 on the optical module is unqualified, the robotic arm 30 places the optical module on the test NG tray 73. In this way, the optical modules are sorted based on the test results, which facilitates the rapid identification and processing of optical modules with different test results, improves work efficiency, and is conducive to the subsequent analysis of optical modules with unqualified test results, thereby providing feedback for production and taking targeted improvement measures, which is conducive to improving the product quality of optical modules.

[0084] It is worth mentioning that the automated interleaved optical module testing method can automatically sort and unload optical modules that fail different test items. Optical modules that fail end inspection are sent to the end inspection NG tray 72, and optical modules that fail the test by the tester 50 are sent to the test NG tray 73. This facilitates subsequent targeted analysis of optical modules that fail different test items. For example, the reasons for end inspection failure can be analyzed for optical modules loaded on the end inspection NG tray 72, and the reasons for test failure can be analyzed for optical modules loaded on the test NG tray 73. This helps to take targeted measures to improve the yield rate and product quality of optical modules.

[0085] Specifically, the unloading area 70 also includes a spare pallet 74, which is used to serve as the pallet when one of the end-inspection NG pallet 72, the test NG pallet 73, and the clinker pallet 71 is full of optical modules. For example, when the clinker pallet 71 is full of optical modules, the optical module testing platform calls the automated transport vehicle. Before the automated transport vehicle arrives, the robotic arm 30 places the subsequently inspected optical modules into the spare pallet 74. The spare pallet 74 is then used as the clinker pallet 71, thereby enabling continuous testing of optical modules and avoiding the impact of material handling progress on the testing progress.

[0086] It is worth mentioning that the raw material pallet 10, the cooked material pallet 71, the end inspection NG pallet 72, the test NG pallet 73, and the spare pallet 74 are preferably set to the same specifications and dimensions, which is conducive to unified procurement and management, and can also be used interchangeably in the production process to rationally allocate resources.

[0087] It is understood that the positions of the raw material tray 10, the finished material tray 71, the end-inspection NG tray 72, the test NG tray 73, and the spare tray 74 on the optical module test platform can be adaptively adjusted. Figure 3 The positions and arrangements of the raw material tray 10, the cooked material tray 71, the end-inspection NG tray 72, the test NG tray 73, and the spare tray 74 shown do not constitute a limitation of the present invention.

[0088] It is worth mentioning that the automated interleaved optical module testing method is suitable for simulating test environments with different temperatures to fully test the performance of the optical module. Specifically, if the end face inspection is qualified and before performing step C, the automated interleaved optical module testing method further includes the step of: the robotic arm 30 picking up the first optical module and placing the first optical module in a preheating station, wherein the preheating station facilitates subsequent testing of the optical module's performance at different temperatures by changing the temperature of the optical module.

[0089] Specifically, the tester 50 includes at least one test port 51 and at least one preheating port 52. The preheating station is located at the preheating port 52. The robotic arm 30 places the first optical module at the preheating station by inserting the first optical module into the preheating port 52. In steps C and D, the robotic arm 30 removes the optical module from the test port 51 and inserts the optical module into the test port 51. In this embodiment of the invention, the tester 50 has two test ports 51 and two preheating ports 52, and the optical module test platform has two testers 50, thereby effectively improving testing efficiency. The automated interleaved optical module testing method can execute the testing process of multiple optical modules at the same time. The two testers 50 on the optical module test platform are located on both sides of the end-point inspection device 40 to facilitate the robotic arm 30 in picking up the optical module to the designated position.

[0090] Specifically, in step D, before inserting the first optical module into the tester 50, the robotic arm 30 moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station 20. After the first optical module is identified at the barcode scanning station 20, it is inserted into the tester 50. That is, the automated interleaved optical module testing method identifies the optical module again during the testing phase of the optical module entering the tester 50, which helps to accurately correspond the test results of the optical module and avoids test result confusion under multiple interleaved optical module testing processes. The optical module testing platform is provided with two barcode scanning stations 50, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the robotic arm 30, so that the robotic arm 30 can move the optical module to the corresponding barcode scanning station 20 for identification.

[0091] Furthermore, in step D, the fiber optic insertion / removal station 60 cleans the fiber optic head before inserting it into the first optical module to remove any dust, impurities, or other contaminants that may be present in the fiber optic head, thereby preventing contaminants from affecting test results and damaging the optical module.

[0092] Specifically, refer to Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the fiber optic insertion / removal station 60 includes an optical module mounting base 61, a cleaning unit 62, and a fiber optic insertion / removal socket 63. The optical module mounting base 61 and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket 63 are arranged along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head. The optical module mounting base 61 is vertically movable, and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket 63 is movable along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head. The cleaning unit 62 is vertically movable between the optical module mounting base 61 and the fiber optic insertion / removal socket 63. The robotic arm 30 places the optical module in the optical module mounting base 61 and removes the optical module... A block is placed in the fiber optic insertion station 60, wherein the cleaning part 62 rises between the optical module mounting base 61 and the fiber optic insertion base 63 before the fiber optic head is inserted into the optical module. The fiber optic insertion base 63 drives the fiber optic head to move toward the cleaning part so that the fiber optic head contacts the cleaning part 62 and is cleaned. After cleaning, the fiber optic insertion base 63 moves away from the cleaning part 62, and the cleaning part 62 descends to avoid blocking the fiber optic insertion base 63 from inserting the fiber optic head into the optical module placed on the optical module mounting base 61.

[0093] It is worth mentioning that in steps C and D, after the robotic arm 30 places the optical module on the optical module mounting base 61, and before the fiber optic plug-in base 63 inserts the fiber optic head or pulls it out, the optical module mounting base 61 limits the optical module to ensure the stability of the fiber optic head insertion and removal, and helps to avoid damage to the optical module when inserting or removing the fiber optic head.

[0094] Specifically, the optical module mounting base 61 includes a lifting device 611, a lifting seat 612, a clamping seat 613, and a pressing part 614. The lifting seat 612 is mounted on the lifting device 611 and is adapted to be raised or lowered by the lifting device 611. The clamping seat 613 is disposed on the lifting seat 612 and includes two opposing limiting walls 6131. ​​The robotic arm 30 places the optical module in the fiber optic insertion / removal station 60 with the optical module positioned between the two limiting walls 6131. ​​The distance between the two limiting walls 6131 is adjustable for clamping the optical module. The pressing part 614 includes a rotary lifting seat 6141 and a pressing rod 6142. The rotary lifting seat 6141... The bottom is mounted on the lifting seat 612. The top of the rotary lifting seat 6141 has an upwardly extending rotary telescopic rod 61411. The pressing rod 6142 is connected to the rotary telescopic rod 61411 and has an extension direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotary telescopic rod 61411. When the robotic arm 30 places the optical module between the two limiting walls 6131, the two limiting walls 6131 move relative to each other to bring the optical module closer together, clamping the optical module between the two limiting walls 6131. ​​The rotary telescopic rod 61411 rises and rotates to move the pressing rod 6142 above the optical module and retracts downward so that the pressing rod 6142 presses against the optical module, thereby limiting and fixing the optical module.

[0095] One end of the pressing rod 6142 is mounted to the rotating telescopic rod 61411 and has a pressing arm extending from that end. The pressing arm extends linearly from that end of the pressing rod 6142 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating telescopic rod 61411, then is bent and continues to extend in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating telescopic rod 61411 to form an L-shape. A pressing block 614 is mounted on the end of the pressing rod 6142 opposite to the end mounted on the rotating telescopic rod 61411. 21. The pressing rod 6142 presses the optical module with the pressing block 61421 abutting against the optical module. The pressing block 61421 can form a pressing buffer for the optical module to avoid damage to the optical module. The pressing block 61421 is detachably installed on the pressing rod 6142, which can adapt to different sizes of optical modules by replacing the pressing block 61421, and facilitate maintenance work and reduce maintenance costs by removing and replacing the pressing block 61421.

[0096] Further, the fiber optic plug-in socket 63 includes a longitudinal moving base 631, a transverse moving base 632, a transverse clamping device 633, and a lifting unlocking device 634. The transverse moving base 632 is mounted on the longitudinal moving base 631 and moves along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head following the longitudinal moving base 631. The transverse clamping device 633 is mounted on the transverse moving base 632 and includes two clamping arms 6331 facing each other in the transverse direction. The distance between the two clamping arms 6331 is adjustable to accommodate clamping the fiber optic head. The lifting unlocking device 634 is jackingly mounted on the transverse moving base 632 and is used to press down the fiber optic head clamped between the two clamping arms 6331 so that the fiber optic head can be inserted into the optical module.

[0097] Specifically, when inserting the fiber optic connector into the optical module, the lifting unlocking device 634 presses down on the fiber optic connector clamped between the two clamping arms 6331. The longitudinal moving seat 631 drives the transverse moving seat 632 forward to insert the fiber optic connector into the optical module. The two clamping arms 6331 move away from each other to release the fiber optic connector. The longitudinal moving seat 631 drives the transverse moving seat 632 backward to complete the insertion of the fiber optic connector. When removing the fiber optic connector from the optical module, after the optical module is fixed by the optical module fixing seat 61, the longitudinal moving seat 631 drives the transverse moving seat 632 forward. The two clamping arms 6331 move closer to each other to clamp the fiber optic connector inserted into the optical module. The lifting unlocking device 634 presses down to unlock the fiber optic connector. The longitudinal moving seat 631 drives the transverse moving seat 632 backward to remove the fiber optic connector. This automated insertion and removal of the fiber optic connector allows for controllable control of the insertion and removal force, effectively avoiding the risk of damage to the optical module caused by manual insertion and removal.

[0098] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0099] Those skilled in the art should understand that the embodiments of the present invention described above and shown in the accompanying drawings are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. The objectives of the present invention have been fully and effectively achieved. The functions and structural principles of the present invention have been demonstrated and explained in the embodiments, and any variations or modifications may be made to the implementation of the present invention without departing from the stated principles.

Claims

1. An automated, interleaved testing method for optical modules, characterized in that, include: A. The robotic arm picks up the first optical module; B. The robotic arm places the first optical module on the end-face inspection device, and the end-face inspection device performs end-face inspection on the first optical module. C. The robotic arm pulls out the second optical module that has completed the test from the self-testing instrument and places the second optical module in the fiber optic plugging and unplugging station, and picks up the second optical module after the fiber optic head on the second optical module is pulled out. D. The robotic arm places the first optical module at the fiber optic insertion / removal station, and inserts the first optical module into the tester after the fiber optic head is inserted into the first optical module. E. The robotic arm places the second optical module in the unloading area and returns to step A.

2. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 1, wherein in step A, after the robotic arm picks up the first optical module, it moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station, and after the first optical module is identified at the barcode scanning station, step B is executed.

3. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 2, wherein in step B, if the test result is qualified, step C is executed; if the test result is unqualified, the robotic arm moves the first optical module to the unloading area and returns to step A.

4. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 2, wherein if the end face detection is qualified, the robotic arm picks up the first optical module, and step C is executed while the robotic arm is picking up the first optical module.

5. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 2, wherein if the end face inspection is qualified and before performing step D, the robotic arm picks up the first optical module and places the first optical module in the preheating station.

6. The automated interleaving optical module testing method according to claim 2, wherein in step D, the fiber optic insertion / removal station cleans the fiber optic head before inserting it into the first optical module.

7. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 6, wherein in step D, before inserting the first optical module into the tester, the robotic arm moves the first optical module to the barcode scanning station, and after the first optical module is identified at the barcode scanning station, the first optical module is inserted into the tester.

8. The automated interleaving optical module testing method according to claim 6, wherein in step C, before the fiber optic head is pulled out of the second optical module, the fiber optic insertion / removal station limits and fixes the second optical module.

9. The automated interleaving optical module testing method according to claim 8, wherein in step D, before inserting the fiber optic head into the first optical module, the fiber insertion / removal station limits and fixes the first optical module.

10. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 9, wherein in step E, the robotic arm places the second optical module in different areas of the unloading area based on the test results of the second optical module.

11. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 1, wherein the robotic arm includes a robotic arm and a robotic hand disposed at the end of the robotic arm, wherein the robotic hand includes at least two picking members for picking up optical modules, wherein in step D, one of the picking members of the robotic hand picks up the second optical module, and the other picking member of the robotic hand picks up the first optical module.

12. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 11, wherein the robotic arm includes a base and a visual positioning sensor, wherein the base is connected to the end of the robotic arm, and the visual positioning sensor and each of the pickups are respectively mounted on different sides of the base.

13. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 12, wherein the robotic arm includes two different types of pickups, one of which is a suction gripper and the other is a grasping gripper, wherein the suction gripper includes a first lifting device and a pair of suction cups, wherein the first lifting device is mounted on the base, wherein the suction cups are mounted on the first lifting device and adapted to be driven to move up and down relative to the base by the first lifting device, wherein the grasping gripper includes a second lifting device and a clamping claw, wherein the second lifting device is mounted on the base, the clamping claw is mounted on the second lifting device and adapted to be driven to move up and down relative to the base by the second lifting device, and the clamping claw has a pair of gripping fingers.

14. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 13, wherein the robotic arm includes two grippers, and the two grippers are of the same type.

15. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 13, wherein the robotic arm includes two grippers, wherein the opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of one gripper is smaller than the opening and closing range of the two gripping fingers of the other gripper.

16. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 15, wherein the robotic arm includes a six-dimensional force sensor, wherein the six-dimensional force sensor is disposed between the base and the end of the robotic arm, wherein the bottom of the base is provided with an adsorption device for adsorbing a corresponding tray, the tray for placing the optical module.

17. The automated insertion and removal method for optical modules according to claim 6, wherein the fiber optic insertion and removal station includes an optical module mounting base, a cleaning unit, and a fiber optic insertion and removal socket, wherein the optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion and removal socket are arranged along the insertion and removal direction of the fiber optic head, the optical module mounting base is vertically movable, the fiber optic insertion and removal socket is movable along the insertion and removal direction of the fiber optic head, the cleaning unit is vertically movable between the optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion and removal socket, wherein the robotic arm places the optical module in the fiber optic insertion and removal station with the optical module mounted on the optical module mounting base, wherein the cleaning unit rises between the optical module mounting base and the fiber optic insertion and removal socket before the fiber optic head is inserted into the optical module, the fiber optic insertion and removal socket moves the fiber optic head toward the cleaning unit so that the fiber optic head contacts the cleaning unit and is cleaned, and after cleaning, the fiber optic insertion and removal socket moves away from the cleaning unit, and the cleaning unit descends.

18. The automated interleaving optical module testing method according to claim 17, wherein the optical module fixing base includes a lifting device, a lifting seat, a clamping seat, and a pressing part, wherein the lifting seat is installed on the lifting device and is adapted to be driven to rise or fall by the lifting device, wherein the clamping seat is disposed on the lifting seat and includes two opposing limiting walls, the robotic arm places the optical module in the fiber optic insertion / removal station with the optical module placed between the two limiting walls, the distance between the two limiting walls is adjustable for clamping the optical module, wherein the pressing part includes a rotary lifting seat and a pressing rod, wherein the bottom of the rotary lifting seat is installed on the lifting seat, the top of the rotary lifting seat has an upwardly extending rotary telescopic rod, wherein the pressing rod is connected to the rotary telescopic rod and has an extension direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotary telescopic rod.

19. The automated insertion and removal optical module testing method according to claim 18, wherein the fiber optic plug-in socket includes a longitudinal moving base, a transverse moving base, a transverse clamping device, and a lifting unlocking device, wherein the transverse moving base is mounted on the longitudinal moving base and moves along the insertion / removal direction of the fiber optic head following the longitudinal moving base, wherein the transverse clamping device is mounted on the transverse moving base and includes two clamping arms opposite each other in the transverse direction, the distance between the two clamping arms is adjustable to accommodate clamping the fiber optic head, wherein the lifting unlocking device is jackingly mounted on the transverse moving base and is used to press down the fiber optic head clamped between the two clamping arms so that the fiber optic head can be inserted into the optical module.

20. The automated interleaved optical module testing method according to claim 9, wherein the unloading area includes an end-inspection NG tray, a test NG tray, and a raw material tray, wherein the end-inspection NG tray is used to place optical modules that fail the end-inspection test, the test NG tray is used to place optical modules that fail the test by the tester, and the raw material tray is used to place optical modules that pass the test, wherein in step B, if the end-inspection test result is unqualified, the robotic arm places the optical module in the end-inspection NG tray, wherein in step E, based on the test result of the tester, the robotic arm places the optical module in the test NG tray or the raw material tray, wherein in step A, the robotic arm picks up the optical module from the raw material tray, wherein the raw material tray is used to store optical modules waiting to be tested, wherein the unloading area also includes a spare tray, wherein the spare tray is used to be activated as such when one of the end-inspection NG tray, the test NG tray, and the raw material tray is full of optical modules.

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