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

Abstract

The present invention relates to an insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), and a use of an insert (40), - wherein the insert (40) comprises several contact elements (8) which are designed to electrically contact the electrically conductive test element (10) in the test state of the test contactor (1), - wherein the insert (40) comprises a plurality of openings (67), wherein the openings (66) are arranged on an upper side of the insert (40) facing the test element (10) in the test state, - wherein in the test state a pin (68) is arranged in at least one opening (67) of the plurality of openings (67) such that the insert has a coding for a test element (10) corresponding to the coding.

Description

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

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

[0003] When the test contactor is closed, a specific and possibly punctual pressure is applied to the chip under test, depending on how the chip under test is inserted, and in particular on its geometry. Therefore, various test contactors feature movable centering devices that are moved toward the chip under test when the test contactor enters the test state.

[0004] However, the supposedly automatic centering of the chip to be tested can, depending on the contour of the chip to be tested, lead to shifts or distances between the contact points of the chip to be tested and one or more spring contact pins.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an insert for an improved test contactor, which in particular enables improved positioning of test elements in the test contactor.

[0006] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved test contactor which in particular enables improved positioning of test elements in the test contactor, and to provide a use of an improved test contactor, in particular for improved positioning of test elements in the test contactor.

[0007] The above-described objects are achieved by the subject matters of the independent claims, preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to an insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, - wherein the insert comprises a plurality of contact elements which are designed to electrically conductively contact the electrically conductive test element in the test state of the test contactor, - wherein the insert comprises a plurality of openings or coding openings, wherein the openings or coding openings are arranged on an upper side of the insert facing the test element in the test state, - wherein in the test state at least one pin is arranged in at least one opening of the plurality of openings such that the insert has a coding for a test element corresponding to the coding.

[0009] Due to the coding provided by the insert in the test state by the pin or by multiple pins in the openings of the plurality of openings, the insert advantageously enables the improvement of a test contactor, and in particular, the improvement of the positioning of test elements in the test contactor. In particular, incorrect positioning of test elements in the test contactor and / or the positioning of an incorrect test element in the test contactor can be prevented. Furthermore, the probability of a test element attached to the test contactor slipping can be advantageously reduced.

[0010] Preferably, in the test state, exactly one pin is arranged in exactly one of the plurality of openings. However, several pins can also be arranged, each in a separate opening.

[0011] The coding which the insert has or forms can in particular be such that it essentially corresponds to a coding of a test element to be tested, in particular one or more coding recesses of the test element to be tested.

[0012] The coding provided by or formed on the insert therefore advantageously prevents the placement of a test element not intended for testing by the test contactor. Preventing the placement of an unintended test element can be caused, for example, by an insert geometry that is unsuitable for the test element and faces the test element in the test state, contact elements that are unsuitable for the test element, or another unsuitable configuration of the test contactor, which may be related to the insert itself or to parts of the test contactor other than the insert.

[0013] The openings or coding openings of the insert can each be designed, in particular, to accommodate precisely one pin. The pin can be releasably received. This allows the pin to be removed from the opening again without causing damage. For example, the pin can be held in place with frictional engagement. Alternatively, the pin can be held in place in a non-releasable manner, i.e., firmly connected. This allows the pin to be removed from the opening without causing damage. For example, the pin can be held in place with a material bond, e.g., by being glued into the opening.

[0014] In exemplary embodiments, the coding which the insert has or forms can be designed in particular to prevent a misaligned arrangement of a test element on the insert.

[0015] For example, the coding that the insert has or forms can be designed, in particular, to form a poka-yoke configuration. In other words, the coding that the insert has or forms by means of the pin or the plurality of pins arranged in one or more of the openings can be such that the placement of a test element not intended for testing by the test contactor on the insert is prevented, and / or that the misaligned placement of a test element intended for testing by the test contactor on the insert is prevented.

[0016] Incorrectly arranging a test element can, in addition to not positioning the test element completely precisely, for example by arranging it rotated by a certain angle on the insert, in particular, comprise arranging the test element on the insert rotated by approximately 180° in the plane, whereby the front and rear of the test element are swapped, and / or arranging the test element on the insert upside down, whereby the top and bottom of the test element are swapped.

[0017] The pin or pins which the insert may have in order to have or form a coding may in particular have a predetermined length which is designed to prevent closure of the test contactor if the coding of the insert does not engage with a test element corresponding to the coding, i.e. in particular if the coding of the insert does not engage with corresponding coding recesses of the test element.

[0018] The pin or pins may, for example, have a predetermined length which, together with the thickness of the test element, is designed to prevent the test contactor from entering a closed state in which, in particular, complementary clamping means of the test contactor are engaged in order to define a predetermined pressure on the test element in the test state.

[0019] For example, a pin can have a length of approximately 3 mm - 20 mm, preferably approximately 5 mm - 10 mm, particularly preferably approximately 10 mm. For example, a pin can have a diameter at its thickest point of approximately 1 mm - 5 mm, preferably approximately 2 mm - 3 mm, particularly preferably approximately 2 mm. The holes can be designed to complement the dimensions of the pin.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, all holes have the same diameter. It is also possible for holes to have different diameters and / or pins to have different diameters. Thus, coding can also be enabled based on holes with different diameters and pins with different diameters. For example, one coding is specified with first pins and first holes of a first diameter. A second coding is specified with second pins and second holes of a second diameter, whereby this diameter is larger than the first diameter and the second pins therefore only fit into the second holes.

[0021] The pin or pins may be tapered towards one end or both ends, in particular conical.

[0022] If an operator attempts to close a test contactor with an incorrect test element or a test element to be tested that is incorrectly aligned on the insert, this can advantageously prevent incorrect, i.e., unintended, contact of the contact elements. Accordingly, the coding provided by or forming on the insert can advantageously improve the service life of the contact elements, and in turn, the service life of the insert and, consequently, the test contactor.

[0023] For example, the contact elements can be arranged at least in sections on or in the insert. The contact elements can, in particular, extend continuously through the insert, in particular such that they can be electrically conductively contacted from an upper side of the insert and / or from a lower side of the insert. The upper side and the lower side refer, in particular, to a top-to-bottom direction of the insert, which the insert assumes during normal use, for example, on a flat worktop, in particular as a substantially vertical direction.

[0024] The openings of the plurality of openings can each extend in particular substantially in the top-bottom direction in order to arrange the pin(s) in particular facing upwards towards the test element, furthermore in particular facing the pressure section of the test contactor when closing the test contactor, and in particular in a manner that is clearly visible to an operator.

[0025] The plurality of contact elements can, without being limited thereto, be arranged on the insert in particular with an extension substantially parallel to the top-bottom direction. The plurality of contact elements can, in particular, be arranged at least in sections in the insert.

[0026] The plurality of contact elements can in particular be arranged on or in the insert in such a way that the plurality of contact elements are configured to electrically conductively connect a test element arranged above the insert to a circuit board, in particular to a circuit board arranged below the insert, in the test state.

[0027] The plurality of contact elements can in particular be arranged on the insert in such a way that the plurality of contact elements are configured to electrically conductively connect a test element, which is at least partially adjacent to the insert from above, to a circuit board, in particular to a circuit board, which is at least partially adjacent to the insert from below, in the test state.

[0028] In further exemplary embodiments, the contact elements of the plurality of contact elements can protrude from the insert on one or both sides, in particular protrude from the insert on one or both sides substantially parallel to the top-bottom direction.

[0029] The contact elements of the plurality of contact elements can in particular be spring contact elements, for example elastically resilient spring contact elements.

[0030] The above-described design of the contact elements and their arrangement on the insert can advantageously ensure a safe electrically conductive contact of a test element in the test state.

[0031] In the following, various terms are used repeatedly, the understanding of which is intended to be facilitated by the following definitions.

[0032] Electrically conductive test element: The electrically conductive test element, as used here, represents a test element to be tested, which is tested by making electrical contact with it, for example, by connecting it to one or more circuit boards. The test element can, for example, be a computing chip that can be used as a CPU core or similar. If only the term "test element" is used here, this also includes the electrically conductive test element.

[0033] A printed circuit board, as described herein in particular as a circuit board suitable for electrically conductive contacting of the test element, has in particular fixing means and / or positioning means for fastening to the test contactor, for example for fastening to the insertion section of the test contactor, in particular for fastening to the insert of the insertion section of the test contactor. The fixing means and / or positioning means can, for example, comprise receiving holes or elements engaging in receiving holes, for fastening to the test contactor, in particular for fastening to the insertion section or to the insert. The printed circuit board can in particular be a PCB (printed circuit board).

[0034] A pin or multiple pins that can be arranged in the openings or coding opening of the insert to form a coding for a test element corresponding to the coding can, in particular, be elongated elements that have, at least in sections, a round or circular, an elliptical, and / or a polygonal cross-section. The pin or the multiple pins can each, in particular, have a longitudinal extension that is at least approximately 4 times, in particular at least approximately 10 times, for example at least approximately 15 times the extension of the cross-section of the pin or the diameter of the respective pin. The pin or the multiple pins can, accordingly, in particular, be substantially axially extending elements.

[0035] In exemplary embodiments, one or more pins, each configured for placement in openings or coding openings, may have a substantially constant cross-section or diameter. This advantageously allows the pin(s) to be arranged in the holes in a simple and time-efficient manner, since the operator can place them in the opening with either their first or second end first.

[0036] In other exemplary embodiments, one or more pins, each configured for arrangement in openings or coding openings, can have a substantially constant cross-section or diameter in sections. For example, one or more pins can have a first, in particular substantially constant, cross-section or diameter facing the opening or coding opening, and a second, in particular substantially constant, cross-section or diameter facing the coding recess of the test element. This advantageously increases the number of different codes that can be formed by the pins with the openings.

[0037] To form the coding, the insert may have one or more pins. In exemplary embodiments, and particularly for an uncoded state of the insert, no pin may be arranged on the insert, and in particular in an opening or coding opening of the insert.

[0038] If in the present case a direction or an angle is described with the addition “essentially” or “approximately” or “approximately”, this addition is generally intended to mean or be understood to mean, in particular, a deviation from the direction or angle in question in the range from 0° to 5°.

[0039] Where a spatial measure, a spatial ratio or any other ratio is described with the addition ‘essentially’ or ‘approximately’ or ‘approximately’, this addition shall mean or be understood to mean, in particular, a deviation from the measure or ratio in question in the range of 0% to 10%.

[0040] The "top-bottom direction" as used here describes a direction in which the insert element, the base section and, if applicable, the fastening means are related to one another, and in particular also to the test contactor. If the insert or the test contactor is positioned in its usual position of use on a substantially flat worktop, the top-bottom direction points substantially vertically. It is understood that if the insert or the test contactor is placed at an angle on the worktop, the top-bottom direction deviates accordingly from the vertical direction. If a height direction is mentioned below, for example with reference to the figures, this can also correspond to the top-bottom direction.

[0041] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the plurality of openings can be formed on the insert such that, in the test state, the insert optionally has a symmetrical or asymmetrical coding by arranging one or more pins in the openings.

[0042] In other words, the openings of the plurality of openings can be formed on the insert in such a way that pins can be arranged selectively at the openings to form a symmetrical or asymmetrical coding, in particular by reversibly arranging the pins at one or more of the openings.

[0043] The openings or coding openings of the plurality of openings or coding openings can accordingly be arranged or formed at least partially symmetrically to one another on the insert, in particular in a plan view of the insert from above.

[0044] A user of the insert can thus advantageously form a symmetrical or asymmetrical coding by reversibly arranging one or more pins at the plurality of openings or coding openings.

[0045] A symmetrical coding advantageously allows a front-back and / or top-bottom twisted arrangement of a test element, and can be used in particular with test elements that are designed symmetrically and can be tested in their twisted arrangement in order to simplify the arrangement of test elements.

[0046] The front-to-back twisted arrangement of a test element particularly refers to an arrangement of the test element rotated by approximately 180° about a line parallel to the top-to-bottom direction, i.e., an arrangement of the test element rotated by approximately 180° in the plane. The top-to-bottom twisted arrangement of a test element particularly refers to an arrangement of the test element rotated by approximately 180° about a line parallel to the longitudinal direction, i.e., an arrangement of the test element rotated by approximately 180° upside down.

[0047] Asymmetric coding advantageously makes it possible to prevent a test element from being arranged in a front-to-back and / or top-to-bottom orientation, and / or in particular to prevent the test contactor from closing or transferring the test contactor into the closed state and in particular into the test state when the test element is arranged or aligned in a front-to-back and / or top-to-bottom orientation. Asymmetric coding can therefore advantageously prevent a twisted arrangement or alignment, i.e., in particular, incorrect arrangement or alignment, even with symmetrically designed test elements. Accordingly, asymmetric coding makes it possible to improve the repeatability of tests and, in particular, to protect the contact elements and / or a circuit board that is to be electrically connected to the test element during the test from an unintended and potentially damaging test.

[0048] The symmetry or asymmetry of the coding can refer to a mirror symmetry or to a mirror plane which extends essentially in the width direction and in the top-bottom direction of the insert, and which extends in particular through a geometric center of the insert, so that the insert is divided in the longitudinal direction into mutually opposite sections.

[0049] Furthermore, the symmetry or asymmetry of the coding can refer to a point symmetry or to a mirror point which is arranged essentially in the geometric center of the insert. The point symmetry can therefore refer in particular to a plan view of the insert, wherein the point of symmetry is arranged on a central axis through the insert which extends in particular essentially parallel to the top-bottom direction through the geometric center of the insert. The point of symmetry can in particular be arranged in a plane in which the openings or coding openings are arranged on the insert. In other words, the symmetry or asymmetry of the coding can refer to a point symmetry with a point of symmetry which, in a plan view of the insert, is arranged in the geometric center, in particular on a central axis of the insert which extends essentially in the top-bottom direction.

[0050] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the openings can be arranged at least partially opposite one another with respect to a center of the insert.

[0051] The center of the insert can in particular correspond to a geometric center of the insert, in particular substantially correspond to a center of gravity of the insert in a plan view of the insert from above, or substantially correspond to the position of a center of gravity of the insert, in particular in a plan view of the insert from above.

[0052] The insert can, in particular, have a substantially plate-like or trough-like shape, which has an extension in the longitudinal direction and in a width direction substantially perpendicular thereto, and which has an extension in the top-bottom direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and width direction. The extension of the insert in the longitudinal direction can, in particular, be greater than the extension in the width direction. The respective extensions of the insert in the longitudinal direction and in the width direction can, in particular, be greater than the extension in the top-bottom direction.

[0053] The contact elements of the insert can in particular be arranged substantially along the top-bottom direction on the insert, i.e. arranged substantially parallel to the top-bottom direction on the insert.

[0054] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the plurality of openings may be odd-numbered.

[0055] This advantageously allows for easy manufacture of the insert, as well as a simple arrangement of pins at the openings or coding openings to form an asymmetric pattern.

[0056] In exemplary embodiments, the openings or coding openings of the plurality of openings can be arranged on longitudinally substantially opposite sides of the insert.

[0057] The openings or coding openings of the plurality of openings or coding openings can comprise an even number of openings or coding openings on a first side of sides of the insert that are substantially opposite each other in the longitudinal direction, for example 2, 4, 6 or more openings, and an odd number of openings or coding openings on a side that is substantially opposite the first side in the longitudinal direction, for example 1, 3, 5, 7 or more openings. The even number of openings on the first side and the odd number of openings on the side substantially opposite the first side can each comprise one or more openings that are arranged opposite each other with respect to a center of the insert, i.e., in particular, in a plan view of the insert, are arranged point-symmetrically to each other on the insert.

[0058] This allows an operator to create either a symmetrical or asymmetrical coding in an advantageously simple manner, and in particular by reversibly arranging pins at the openings or coding openings.

[0059] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, at least two openings can have a different cross-section or diameter from one another.

[0060] By having two or more of the openings each have a different cross-section or diameter, the formation of an asymmetric coding can be advantageously simplified and, in particular, the number of coding patterns that can be formed asymmetrically through the openings can be increased in a simple manner.

[0061] In exemplary embodiments, the insert may comprise two or four openings on a first side of longitudinally substantially opposite sides of the insert, wherein at least one of the two or one of the four openings has a diameter or cross-section that is different from the diameter or cross-section of the other openings or the other three openings. In particular, each of the openings on the first side of longitudinally substantially opposite sides of the insert may have a different diameter or cross-section.

[0062] Furthermore, the insert may comprise one, three, or five openings on a side substantially opposite the first side in the longitudinal direction. The openings on the side substantially opposite the first side may have a diameter or cross-section that is different from the other openings arranged on the side substantially opposite the first side.

[0063] Optionally, the openings of the side substantially opposite the first side may have a diameter or cross-section that corresponds at least partially to the openings arranged on the first side.

[0064] This further advantageously simplifies the formation of an asymmetric coding, and furthermore, in particular, the formation of an optionally asymmetric or symmetric coding can be simplified, wherein a large number of different codings can be formed by means of a small number of pins of different diameters.

[0065] The sides of the insert referred to here as being arranged opposite one another, in particular the sides of the insert referred to as being arranged opposite one another in the longitudinal direction, each mean in particular two sections or coding sections of the insert arranged opposite one another, in particular two sections or coding sections arranged substantially opposite one another in the longitudinal direction, wherein the two sections or coding sections are each arranged in particular on an upper side or on an upper side of the insert in the top-bottom direction.

[0066] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the insert can be designed in several pieces, such that the insert has an upper insert element facing the test element in the test state, which is fastened to a lower base section with a translational degree of freedom, wherein the base section is designed to delimit the insert element at least in sections laterally and from below, and the base portion may have a coding portion that extends laterally further than the insert element and that has at least a portion of the plurality of openings.

[0067] This allows the insert to be advantageously configured for each test element, whereby the insert element, which is fastened with a degree of freedom, takes into account the geometry of the test element and / or controls the force transmission to the contact elements, and thereby further supports and / or protects the contact elements.

[0068] In particular, the arrangement of the insert element with one degree of freedom, in particular with one degree of freedom in the top-bottom direction, advantageously makes it possible to reduce an initial force on the contact elements of the insert, and thereby advantageously to protect and / or support the contact elements.

[0069] If the base section, which has the openings or coding openings, extends laterally, for example, in the longitudinal direction, further than the insert element, the coding for the test element can advantageously be formed independently of the insert element, which facilitates the manufacturability of the insert and improves the targeted provision of the individual functions of the insert. In other words, the functionally separate provision of the coding advantageously enables efficient adjustment of a test element-specific configuration of the insert.

[0070] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the base section can have two opposing coding sections.

[0071] The two opposing coding sections can, in particular, be located substantially opposite each other in the longitudinal direction of the insert.

[0072] This further advantageously improves the provision of the individual functions of the insert independently of one another, wherein the operator fastens a test element-specific insert element to the base section centrally in the longitudinal direction of the insert, in particular reversibly fastened, and can independently set a coding of the insert, in particular by reversibly arranging one or more pins in the openings or coding openings of the insert.

[0073] In preferred embodiments of the insert for a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the insert may comprise a biasing means configured to bias the insert element relative to the base portion.

[0074] The prestressing means can be designed, in particular, to prestress the insert element away from the base section. The prestressing means can also be designed, in particular, to prestress the insert element substantially in the top-bottom direction relative to the base section, in particular, to prestress it facing the test element in the test state.

[0075] The prestressing means may, for example, comprise a spring, in particular a spiral spring, and / or an elastomer.

[0076] The prestressing means advantageously allows for initial contact to be established when a pressure section of the test contactor presses the test element toward the contact elements. For example, the prestressing means can be designed to prestress the insert element, facing the test element in the test state, away from the base section, in particular along the translational degree of freedom of the insert element. The prestressing of the insert element by the prestressing means can, in particular, be such that the test element initially comes into contact with the insert element when the test contactor transitions to the test state, so that a high initial force on the contact elements can advantageously be reduced and, in particular, prevented. The prestressing means therefore advantageously enables the contact elements to be protected and supported by the insert.

[0077] A further aspect of the invention relates to a test contactor for testing an electrically conductive test element, the test contactor comprising: - an application as described herein, -- wherein the insert comprises a test area to which the electrically conductive test element can be arranged, -- wherein in the test state at least one pin is arranged in the plurality of openings; and - a pressure section which is pivotally mounted relative to the insert and which is designed to press the electrically conductive test element towards the at least one pin in the test state of the test contactor.

[0078] The pressure section can further be designed in particular to press the electrically conductive test element in the test state of the test contactor against the plurality of contact elements arranged on the insert, and thereby further press the contact elements in particular against a printed circuit board, which can be arranged, for example, below the insert on the test contactor.

[0079] The pressure section is furthermore particularly designed to press the electrically conductive test element against the plurality of contact elements only when the pin(s) arranged at the openings or coding openings of the insert engage with complementary coding openings of the test element when the test contactor is closed.

[0080] If the coding provided by the pin(s) on the insert does not match the coding openings of the test element, the insert is specifically designed to prevent the test element from making electrically conductive contact with the contact elements. This advantageously prevents unwanted and potentially damaging contact between the contact elements and / or the circuit board.

[0081] The insert can in particular be arranged reversibly on a frame section of the test contactor, wherein the frame section and the insert can in particular form part of a multi-piece insert section of the test contactor.

[0082] The pressure section of the test contactor can be pivotally mounted, in particular, on the frame section in order to be pivotable relative to the insert and the test element arranged thereon, for example.

[0083] The insert, its exemplary, preferred and alternative embodiments, and their effects, relate equally to the test contactor, and vice versa.

[0084] A further aspect of the invention relates to a use of an insert as described herein, the use comprising the steps: - Providing the deployment; - Arranging one or more pins in at least one opening or coding opening of the plurality of openings to form a coding facing the test element in the test state.

[0085] In exemplary embodiments, the use of the insert may include a step of removing one or more pins from the plurality of openings or coding openings prior to arranging one or more pins in at least one opening or coding opening. This allows the insert to be advantageously, in particular reversibly, converted from a configuration with a first coding to a configuration with a second coding, which is in particular different from the first coding.

[0086] In further exemplary embodiments, the use of the insert may include a step of completely removing all pins from the plurality of openings or coding openings. This allows the insert to be formed without any coding, for example.

[0087] The insert and the test contactor, their exemplary, preferred and alternative embodiments, and their effects, relate equally to the use of the insert, and vice versa.

[0088] In the present case, it was always assumed that there is a test element which, for example, has one or more coding openings which, in the test state and in particular already in the state of the test element attached to the test area of ​​the insert, can engage with the pins of the insert which form the coding of the insert if they correspond to one another, or cannot engage if they do not correspond to one another, for example if the test element is twisted or if the test element is not intended for the test and therefore does not have the appropriate coding openings.

[0089] In exemplary embodiments, a plurality of test elements can be arranged in a test module, wherein the test module has the coding openings which, in the test state, can be brought into engagement with the pin(s) of the insert. The test contactor can, in particular, be designed to comprise one or more inserts, in particular to comprise one or more inserts that can be reversibly arranged on a frame section. Each insert can form a coding for a test element, or a plurality of inserts can together form a coding for one or more test elements, in particular for a test module on which a plurality of test elements are arranged.

[0090] This advantageously enables particularly efficient testing of test elements. Furthermore, the number of different codings that are or will be formed jointly by a corresponding plurality of inserts can be advantageously increased.

[0091] The present statements regarding the test element and its coding openings accordingly relate equally to a test module which has coding openings and on which, in particular, one or more test elements can be arranged.

[0092] The insert may in particular comprise or consist of a plastic, in particular comprise or consist of a thermoplastic plastic.

[0093] In particular, the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening means may comprise or consist of a plastic, in particular comprise or consist of a thermoplastic plastic.

[0094] The insert, and in particular the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening means, can be manufactured as a plastic, and in particular as a thermoplastic, in a simple and cost-effective manner, and furthermore, they exhibit suitable elastic deformability. Furthermore, the insert is advantageously designed essentially as an insulator, apart from the contact elements arranged in or on the insert, so that targeted electrically conductive contact with the test element can be ensured.

[0095] In exemplary embodiments, the insert, and in particular the insert element, the base portion, and / or the fastening means, may comprise or consist of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA), and / or polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0096] If the insert, and in particular the insert element, the base section, and / or the fastening means, comprises or consists of polyetheretherketone, the insert is advantageously heat-resistant in addition to being particularly easy to manufacture, for example, by injection molding. This heat resistance advantageously enables a large number of consecutive tests or tests to be carried out continuously on the test contactor, whereby the test can advantageously be carried out with repeatable accuracy.

[0097] Embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and that individual features of the embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

[0098] It shows: Fig. 1 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in an open state; Fig. 2 shows a test contactor according to an embodiment, in an open state; Fig. 3 shows a test contactor according to an embodiment, with arranged test elements, in an open state; Fig. 4 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 5 is a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 6 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 7 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 8a an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 8b is a sectional view of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 9a a fastening means according to an embodiment; Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c shows a further sectional view of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 10 is an exploded view of an insert according to one embodiment; Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c shows an insert according to an embodiment, with a coding; Fig. 12 a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 13 is a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b shows a printing section according to an embodiment; Fig. 14c a pivot joint according to an embodiment; Fig. 15 is a sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 16 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor according to an embodiment, in the closed state; Fig. 17a a support element according to an embodiment; Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c is a sectional view of a support element according to an embodiment; Fig. 18a and Fig. 18b is a flowchart of a use of an insert according to an embodiment; Fig. 19 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a test contactor; Fig. 20a and Fig. 20b is a flowchart of a use of a support element according to an embodiment; and Fig. 21 a flow diagram of a method for manufacturing a test contactor.

[0099] Fig. 1 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in an open state of the test contactor 1.

[0100] Fig. 2 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in an open state of the test contactor 1. The Fig. 2 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in Fig. 1, where the Fig. In contrast, the test contactor 1 shown in Figure 2 is shown enlarged.

[0101] Fig. Figure 3 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, with attached test elements 10, in an open state. Fig. 3 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, where in comparison with the one shown in Fig. 3, additional test elements 10 are attached, and in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1.

[0102] Fig. 4 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. Fig. 4 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. 4, in particular a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state. Compared to the illustrations in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the pressure section 80 of the test contactor 1 and the insertion section 20 of the test contactor 1 are pivoted relative to one another. The pressure section 80 can, in particular, be pivoted such that it is designed to press a test element 10 arranged on the test contactor 1 or, in particular, on the insertion section 20 against contact elements 8 arranged in the insertion section 20.

[0103] The closed state, as in Fig. 4, can be fixed in particular by means of a clamping means 100, which engages with a complementary clamping means 32, in particular reversibly releasably engaged. One of the clamping means 100 and the complementary clamping means 32 can be arranged on the pressure section 80, and the other of the clamping means 100 and the complementary clamping means 32 can be arranged on the insertion section 20, in particular on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20.

[0104] The clamping means 100 can, in particular, comprise an elastically resilient hook, which is designed to engage behind a projection of the complementary clamping means 32 in the closed state of the test contactor 1, and in particular in the test state of the test contactor 1. The clamping means 100 can, in particular, be actuated in an elastically resilient manner, for example, by an operator or a tool, so that the test contactor 1 can be reversibly brought into an open and a closed state, or in particular into a test state.

[0105] Fig. Figure 5 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. Fig. 5 shown test contactor 1 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in Fig. 4, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 5 is shown in a sectional view. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 5 essentially the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. In particular, a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1 shown in Figure 5, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0106] Fig. Figure 6 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. Fig. 6 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 6 is cut in the width direction B at a different location than the test contactor 1 in Fig. 5. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 6 essentially the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. 6, in particular a circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0107] Fig. Figure 7 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. Fig. 7 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 7 is cut in the width direction B at a different location than the test contactor 1 in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 7 essentially the test contactor 1, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. In particular, a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1 shown in Figure 7, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0108] Fig. Fig. 8a shows an insert 40 according to an embodiment, wherein the insert 40 may correspond to the insert 40 as used in a test contactor 1 in one of the Fig. 1 to 7 shown or arranged.

[0109] Fig. Figure 8b shows a sectional view of an insert 40 according to an embodiment, wherein the one shown in Fig. 8b shown insert 40 in particular the one in Fig. 8a can correspond to insert 40.

[0110] Fig. 9a shows a fastening means 42 according to an embodiment, wherein the fastening means 42 may correspond to the fastening means 42 as in an insert 40 or in a test contactor 1 in one of the Fig. 1 to 8a and 8b shown or arranged.

[0111] Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c show a further sectional view of an insert 40 according to the embodiment, wherein the Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c shown insert 40 in particular the one in Fig. 8a shown insert 40, and in particular may have a fastening means 42, as in Fig. 9a. The sectional views of the Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c each show a section with a cutting plane which extends essentially in the width direction B and in the longitudinal direction L.

[0112] Fig. Figure 10 shows an exploded view of an insert 40 according to an embodiment, wherein the Fig. 10 shown insert 40 in particular the one in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 9b and Fig. 9c shown insert 40, and in particular may have a fastening means 42, as in Fig. 9a shown.

[0113] Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c show an insert 40 according to an embodiment, with a coding, in particular with at least one pin 68, which is arranged in an opening or in a coding opening 67 of the insert 40. The Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c can in particular essentially correspond to the insert 40, as in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. 10, and in particular have at least one pin 68 arranged in one or more coding openings 67.

[0114] Fig. 12 shows a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. Fig. 12 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 12, particularly from its rear side. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 12 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. 12, in particular a circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0115] Fig. Figure 13 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the width direction B, B' and in the height direction H, H'. Fig. 13 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 and Fig. 12, where the test contactor 1 is in Fig. 13 is shown particularly from its rear side and in a sectional view. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 13 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, where at the Fig. 13, in particular a circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1, and the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state.

[0116] Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b show a printing section 80 according to an embodiment, wherein the Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b shown printing section 80 in particular the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, and 13. For clarity, the pressure section 80 is shown in each case without the pivot joint 90.

[0117] Fig. 14c shows a pivot joint 90 according to an embodiment, wherein the Fig. 14c shown swivel joint 90 in particular the one shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12 and 13 arranged on the test contactor 1.

[0118] Fig. Figure 15 shows a sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the vertical direction H, H' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. Fig. 15 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, wherein the printing section 80 of the Fig. 15 is at least partially not shown for clarity. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 15 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, wherein the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state, and wherein the pressure section 80 is at least partially not shown for clarity.

[0119] The Fig. The representation of the test contactor 1 shown in Fig. 15 can in particular correspond to a transport state of the test contactor 1 in which no printed circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110.

[0120] Fig. Figure 16 shows a further sectional view of a test contactor 1 according to an embodiment, in the closed state. The sectional view represents a section with a cutting plane that extends essentially in the vertical direction H, H' and in the longitudinal direction L, L'. Fig. 16 can in particular essentially correspond to the test contactor 1 as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12, Fig. 13 and Fig. 15. Furthermore, the test contactor 1 can be Fig. 16 essentially the test contactor 1, as in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, wherein the test contactor 1 is shown in the closed state, and wherein a printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1.

[0121] Compared to test contactor 1, as in Fig. 15, is on test contactor 1, as shown in Fig. 16, in particular, a circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1. The circuit board 2 is arranged in particular in a sandwich-like manner between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110. Fig. 16 can in particular represent a test state of the test contactor 1.

[0122] Fig. 17a shows a support element 110 according to an embodiment.

[0123] Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c show a sectional view of a support element 110 according to an embodiment, wherein the support element 110 in particular corresponds to the Fig. 17a shown support element 110. The Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c shown support elements 110 may in particular correspond to the respective support elements 110 as shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 or arranged on the test contactors 1 shown there.

[0124] The one in the Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 represents an exemplary test contactor 1 which, in particular, has an insertion section 20 and a pressure section 80, wherein the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 are pivotally mounted relative to one another, in particular by means of a pivot joint 90 shown as an example or by means of a plurality of pivot joints 90.

[0125] The one in the Fig. The test contactor 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, and 17 has, by way of example, a plurality of test areas 5, which are only partially represented by reference numerals in the figures for clarity. The insertion section 20, in particular, has a corresponding plurality of inserts 40, so that each insert 40 has a test area 5 to which a test element 10 can be attached.

[0126] The test element 10 can in particular be inserted into the insert 40 or placed thereon, in particular in such a way that the test element 10, in the test state of the test contactor 1, is or will be electrically conductively contacted with the contact elements 8, which are arranged at least in sections in the insert 40.

[0127] It is understood that although the test contactor 1 has, by way of example, a plurality of test areas 5 and inserts 40 for electrically conductive contacting of a corresponding plurality of test elements 10, the test contactor 1 is not limited thereto.In further exemplary embodiments, the test contactor 1 can have a plurality of test areas 5 and inserts 40 that differs from that in the figures, and / or a plurality of pressure elements 81 that differs from that in the figures, and / or a plurality of support elements 110 that differs from that in the figures, for example a single insert 40 that accordingly has a single test area 5, and / or a single pressure element 81 that extends in the width direction B, B', for example with substantially the same dimension as the insert 40 and / or as the test area 5 provided by the insert 40 for arranging a test element 10 thereon, and / or the test contactor 1 can have a single support element 110.

[0128] Although the test contactor 1 therefore advantageously enables the simultaneous testing of a plurality of test elements 10, which may be arranged, for example, on a test module 12, another exemplary test contactor 1 can test only one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or a number other than the reproduced plurality of test elements 10 simultaneously, in particular by means of a corresponding number of inserts 40, which in turn provide a corresponding number of test areas 5.

[0129] Accordingly, the inserts 40, which the insertion section 20 has and which are arranged in particular on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20, can be designed in particular to each form or have a test area 5 for a single test element 10. This advantageously ensures test element-specific testing by the test contactor 1.

[0130] The inserts 40 can in particular be reversibly detachably fastened to the frame section 30, for example by means of screws, by means of resilient clips, or the like.

[0131] The longitudinal direction L and the width direction B define, in particular, a substantially horizontal plane in which the test contactor 1, and in particular the insertion section 20 of the test contactor 1, can be set up or positioned. The substantially horizontal plane can, in particular, correspond to a worktop during normal use of the test contactor 1.

[0132] The height direction H represents a direction substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane spanned by the longitudinal direction L and the width direction B. The height direction H corresponds in particular to a top-bottom direction during a normal use of the test contactor 1 and in particular to a top-bottom direction during a normal use of the insertion section 20 of the test contactor 1, and furthermore in particular to a top-bottom direction during a normal use of the insert 40 of the insertion section 20.

[0133] If the test contactor 1 is in a closed state, such as in the Fig. As shown in Figures 4 to 7, 12, 13, 15, and 16, in particular, the width direction B' of the pressure section 80 coincides with the width direction B of the test contactor 1, the longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80 coincides with the longitudinal direction L of the test contactor 1, and the height direction H' of the pressure section 80 or the thickness direction of the pressure section 80 coincide with the height direction H or the top-bottom direction of the test contactor 1, or are each at least substantially parallel to one another. The width direction B of the test contactor 1 is, in particular, substantially parallel to the width direction B' of the pressure section 80, regardless of whether the test contactor 1 is in the open state or the closed state.

[0134] The respective directions are shown without a specific origin and serve to show a relative position of the parts and sections of the test contactor 1 to each other.

[0135] The width direction B, the length direction L and the height direction H or the top-bottom direction H form in particular a right-hand system.

[0136] The width direction B' of the printing section 80, the longitudinal direction L' of the printing section 80 and the height direction H' of the printing section 80 or the thickness direction H' of the printing section 80 form in particular a right-hand system.

[0137] The longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80 and the width direction B' of the pressure section 80 in particular define a plane which, in the closed state of the test contactor 1, is essentially parallel to the plane defined by the width direction B and the longitudinal direction L of the test contactor 1. In the open state of the test contactor 1, as exemplified in the Fig. 1 to 3, the height direction H' or the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 is substantially perpendicular to the plane spanned by the longitudinal direction L' and the width direction B' of the test contactor 1. The height direction H' or the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 particularly represents a direction along the thickness of the pressure section 80.

[0138] The pressure section 80 is pivotally mounted relative to the insertion section 20, in particular by means of one or more pivot joints 90. The pivot joint 90, as shown by way of example in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore in particular in Fig. 14c, may in particular have a single rotational degree of freedom. This degree of freedom is provided by the pivot joint 90 for the pressure section 80, for pivoting relative to the insertion section 20.

[0139] This advantageously ensures a targeted and repeatable transition between the open state and the closed state, and in particular between the open state and the test state of the test contactor 1.

[0140] In further exemplary embodiments, and as shown in the figures, the test contactor 1 can comprise a plurality of pivot joints 90, by means of which the pressure section 80 is pivotally mounted relative to the insertion section 20. In particular, the test contactor 1 can comprise two pivot joints 90, which are arranged spaced apart from one another in a direction parallel to the pivot axis SA. This can further ensure and improve the pivoting movement of the pressure section 80, and accordingly, a targeted and repeatable transition between the open state and the closed state.

[0141] The pivot axis SA of a respective pivot joint 90 is defined, in particular, essentially by an axial element 92 of the pivot joint 90. A return means 94 can be arranged, in particular, on the axial element 92. In particular, a return means 94 can be arranged around the axial element 92 and, through its arrangement on or around the axial element 92, can form a pivot axis SA about which the pressure section 80 can pivot relative to the insertion section 20.

[0142] As in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore in particular in the Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b, in particular the pressure section 80 has a fastening area 86 for fastening the axial element 92.

[0143] The fastening region 86 is formed in the longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80, in particular on a rear end face of the pressure section 80. The fastening region 86 has, in particular, an opening 87 which extends continuously through the pressure section 80 in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. Adjacent to the opening 87, which is continuous in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, extends a cavity which is delimited or limited on one side in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 on both sides in the width direction B' of the pressure section 80. The cavity, delimited on one side, is delimited in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 by the first stop 88, on one side adjacent to the opening 87 in the width direction B', and by the second stop 89, on the other side adjacent to the opening 87 in the width direction B'.

[0144] As in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and furthermore in particular in the Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b, the first stop 88 and the second stop 89 may be arranged substantially opposite each other in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80.

[0145] As through the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and in particular by the Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b, the first stop 88 can form a stop in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 for an axial element 92 arranged on the fastening area 86, and the second stop 89 can form a stop opposite to the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 for an axial element 92 arranged on the fastening area 86.

[0146] As a result, the swivel joint 90 can advantageously be mounted on the pressure section 80 without prestress.

[0147] For example, the pivot joint 90 can be arranged or positioned in the region of the opening 87 of the fastening region 86 such that the axial extension of the axial element 92 is approximately aligned with the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. Subsequently, the pivot joint 90 can be rotated substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L' of the pressure section 80. In particular, the pivot joint 90 can be rotated such that the axial element 92, in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, abuts the first stop 88 and the second stop 89, or touches one or both of the first and second stops 88, 89.In other words, the rotation of the pivot joint 90 relates in particular to a rotation of the pivot joint 90, wherein the axial extent of the axial element 92 of the pivot joint 90 is converted or rotated from a state in which it is aligned substantially along the thickness direction H' to a state in which it is aligned substantially parallel to the width direction B' of the pressure section 80.

[0148] It is understood that, depending on the dimensioning of the axial element 92 and the dimensioning of the through-opening 87 in the width direction B', the pivot joint 90 does not initially need to be precisely aligned with the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80. For example, the pivot joint 90 can be arranged rotated in the through-opening 87, for example, already toward the target position in the fastening area 86, in particular toward the two stops 88, 89.

[0149] In exemplary embodiments, the rotation of the pivot joint 90 can be carried out such that a second spring arm (not shown) of the return means 94 of the pivot joint 90 enters the spring arm receptacle 85 of the pressure section 80. The second spring arm comprises, in particular, a means engaging in the spring arm receptacle 85, which in the spring arm receptacle 85 comes to bear against the pressure section 80. The second spring arm of the return means 94 of the pivot joint 90 can, in particular, be arranged protruding substantially tangentially from the axial element 92.Furthermore, the second spring arm of the return means 94 can be designed to be complementary to the spring arm receptacle 85 in such a way that the second spring arm does not apply any force to the pressure section 80 in the open state of the test contactor 1, and in particular during the transition to the closed state applies an increasing force to the pressure section 80, i.e. an increasing force which is opposite to the closing movement of the test contactor 1 or the pivoting movement towards the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0150] The spring arm receptacle 85 can be arranged or formed in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, in particular on a side of the pressure section 80 facing the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1. Furthermore, the spring arm receptacle 85 can be closed or have a stop on a side of the pressure section 80 facing away from the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1 in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80, for driving the second spring arm of the return means 94, in particular when the pressure section 80 is pivoted into the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0151] The test contactor 1 may comprise one or more pivot joints 90 for pivotally supporting the pressure section 80 relative to the insertion section 20. As shown in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, and 16, if the test contactor 1 comprises a plurality of pivot joints 90, the pivot joints 90 of the plurality of pivot joints 90 can be spaced apart from one another substantially in a direction parallel to the pivot axis SA. This advantageously ensures particularly stable and repeatable pivoting of the pressure section 80 relative to the insertion section 20.

[0152] As in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, and 16, the insert section 20 can, in particular, comprise a fastening region 22 for the base 98 of the pivot joint 90. In particular, the frame section 30 of the insert section 20 can comprise the fastening region 22 for the base 98. Furthermore, the insert section 20 or the frame section 30 can, in particular, each comprise a fastening region 22 for each pivot joint 90.

[0153] The base 98 has in particular a receptacle for the axial element 92. As shown in the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 and in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 14c, the base 98 can, in particular, have a two-armed receptacle for the axial element 92. The two-armed receptacle comprises, in particular, two opposing holes designed to receive the axial element 92 along its axial extent. The axial extent of the axial element 92, with the return means 94 arranged thereon or around it, essentially defines the pivot axis SA, so that the pivot axis SA is essentially parallel to the axis of the axial extent of the axial element 92, and in particular is essentially coaxial with the axial element 92 arranged on the base 98.

[0154] In exemplary embodiments, one or both of the two opposing holes of the two-armed receptacle of the base 98 can be frictionally connected to the axial element 92. This advantageously allows the axial element 92 to be precisely positioned relative to the base 98. Furthermore, the assembly of the pivot joint 90 can be facilitated because the axial element 92 is advantageously prevented from becoming detached from the base 98.

[0155] In further exemplary embodiments, the two opposing holes of the two-armed receptacle of the base 98 can form a clearance fit or transition fit with the axial element 92. This advantageously allows the axial element 92 and the return means 94 to be easily attached to the base 98.

[0156] As in the Fig. 12, Fig. 14c and Fig. 15, the base 98 can in particular have a receptacle for a first spring arm 96 of the return means 94. The receptacle of the base 98 for the first spring arm 96 can be an opening that is continuous in the vertical direction H, or an opening that is not completely continuous in the vertical direction H through the base 98. By means of the opening for the first spring arm 96 of the return means 94, the return means 94 can be easily positioned on the base 98 before the axial element 92 is pushed through the return means 94 and is received by the particularly two-armed receptacle of the base 98.

[0157] Furthermore, by means of the receptacle of the base 98 for the first spring arm 96 of the return means 94, a direction can advantageously be adjusted in which the second spring arm of the return means 94 (not shown in the figures) protrudes from the return means 94 or from the axial element 92 during assembly on the pressure section 80. This advantageously allows the assembly of the pivot joint 90 on the pressure section 80, with the second spring arm of the return means 94 being brought into the spring arm receptacle 85, to be easily adjusted. Furthermore, the assembly is adjustable such that the pivot joint 90 can be fastened to the fastening area 86 of the pressure section 80 with the axial element 92 advantageously without prestress, and the base 98 can be fastened without prestress to the fastening area 22 of the insert section 20 or the frame section 30, particularly following the fastening of the axial element 92 to the pressure section 80.In particular, the base 98 can be fastened without prestress to the fastening region 22 of the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30, in particular in a relative position between the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 or frame section 30, which corresponds to the open state of the test contactor 1.

[0158] A maximum open position of the open state between pressure section 80 and insertion section 20 or between pressure section 80 and frame section 30 of the open state can be adjustable, for example, by a mutual stop between pressure section 80 and insertion section 20 or between pressure section 80 and frame section 30.

[0159] As in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the fastening region 22 for the base 98 can in particular have a step 23, in particular the fastening region 22 can have a step 23 on both sides in the width direction B. The step 23 or the double-sided step 23 comprises in particular a region offset in the height direction H, by means of which the base 98 can be arranged at least in sections in a form-fitting manner on the fastening region 22, in particular can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on one side in the longitudinal direction L, and / or can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on both sides in the width direction B.

[0160] This advantageously facilitates and improves the positioning of the base 98 for assembly, in particular for prestress-free assembly, on the fastening area 22 for the base 98.

[0161] As in Fig. 13, the fastening area 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 can comprise corresponding fixing means to ensure a simple and in particular prestress-free fixing of the base 98 to the fastening area 22 for the base 22.

[0162] In exemplary embodiments, the fastening region 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 can be fixed in a form-fitting and / or friction-fitting manner, for example by means of screws, resilient clips, split pins, frictionally engaging bolts, a bayonet connection, or the like. In alternative embodiments, the fastening region 22 for the base 98 and the base 98 can be fixed in a material-fitting manner, for example by means of gluing or welding, or the like.

[0163] In exemplary embodiments, and as in Fig. 13, the base 98 can be fixed in particular by means of one or more screws to the fastening region 22 for the base 98. If the fastening region 22 has the step 23 or the step 23 on both sides in the width direction B, a single screw or another single fixing means can advantageously be sufficient to fix the base 98 to the fastening region 22 for the base 98, since the positive connection advantageously limits or prevents rotation of the base 98 relative to the fastening region 22 for the base 98. If the base 98 is fixed by means of several fixing means, for example by means of several fixing means spaced apart from one another in the width direction B, for example by means of two screws spaced apart from one another in the width direction B, rotation of the base 98 relative to the fastening region 22 for the base 98 can advantageously be prevented.As a result, the pivot axis SA of the printing section 80 can be advantageously adjusted relative to the insertion section 20, and accordingly, testing by means of the test contactor 1 can also be advantageously adjusted with repeatable accuracy.

[0164] By pivoting the second spring arm (not shown) of the return means 94 with the pressure section 80, when pivoting the pressure section 80 into the closed state of the test contactor 1, relative to the first spring arm 96 of the return means 94, which is fixed in particular to the base 98 and / or to the fastening area 22 of the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30, a restoring force can advantageously be provided by the return means 94, which force increases with increasing pivoting of the pressure section 80 into the closed position of the test contactor 1.

[0165] The return means 94 can in particular comprise a spring, such as a spiral spring, which is arranged around the axial element 92. The spring can in particular comprise a first spring arm 96 and a second spring arm (not shown), which each protrude or project substantially tangentially from the axial element 92. The first spring arm 96 is in particular a spring arm 96 facing the insert section 20 or the frame section 30, which is designed to come into contact with the insert section 20 or the frame section 30 or to be received therein, and which is in particular designed to be fixed to the insert section 20.The second spring arm is in particular a spring arm facing the pressure section 80, which is designed, in particular in the region of the spring arm receptacle 85, to come into abutment with the pressure section 80 or to be received therein in order to move with the pressure section 80 in accordance with the particularly pivoted position of the pressure section 80.

[0166] By means of the return means 94, a predetermined force for transferring the test contactor 1 into the closed state, and in particular into the test state, can advantageously be set, whereby in particular an accidental or unwanted closing of the test contactor 1 can be advantageously prevented, whereby in turn the contact elements 8 can be advantageously protected.

[0167] It is understood that the fastening areas 22, 86 for the pivot joint 90 can be formed, in particular in a reverse configuration, on the pressure section 80 and on the insertion section 20 or frame section 30. It is further understood that the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 can be connected by means of other pivot joints, in particular by means of other resilient pivot joints, than the one shown in particular in Fig. 14c shown pivot joint 90 can be pivotally coupled to each other.

[0168] The particularly resilient swivel joint 90, as shown in particular in Fig. 14c, but advantageously enables prestress-free mounting on the test contactor 1, in particular on the pressure section 80 and on the insertion section 20.

[0169] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b, in exemplary embodiments, one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80, in particular one of the frame section 30 and the pressure section 80, can have a projection 24 which is designed to engage in a groove 84 of the other of the insertion section 20 or frame section 30 and the pressure section 80. The engagement of the projection 24 in the groove 84 can in particular comprise engagement both in the open state of the test contactor 1 and in the closed state of the test contactor 1.

[0170] The projection 24 can, in particular, protrude substantially in the vertical direction H of the insertion section 20, in particular protrude toward the pressure section 80, if the projection 24 is arranged or formed on the insertion section 20 or on the frame section 30. The projection 24 can be formed integrally with the insertion section 20 or the frame section 30 or the pressure section 80, or can, in particular, comprise a bolt or a similar pin-shaped element.

[0171] The groove 84 can, in particular, comprise an opening on the insert section 20 or on the pressure section 80 facing the hinge joint 90 in the longitudinal direction L, L'. The groove 84 can extend substantially in the height direction H of the insert section 20 if the groove 84 is arranged or formed on the insert section 20, or can extend substantially in the thickness direction H' of the pressure section 80 if the groove 84 is arranged or formed on the pressure section 80.

[0172] The projection 24 and the groove 84 can be arranged or formed spaced apart from a hinge joint 90, in particular in a direction that is substantially parallel to the pivot axis SA. In exemplary embodiments, the projection 24 and the groove 84 can be arranged between two pivot joints 90, in particular in a direction that is substantially parallel to the pivot axis SA of a plurality of pivot joints 90.

[0173] The projection 24 and the groove 84, through their mutual engagement, enable the assembly of the test contactor 1 to be guided and, in particular, facilitated, for example, by the pressure section 80, with the pivot joint(s) 90 fastened to the pressure section 80 without preload, being positionable on the insertion section 20 or on the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20 such that the projection 24 and the groove 84 engage. Subsequently, for example, the base 98 of the one or more pivot joints 90 can be easily fastened to the fastening area 22 for the base 98.

[0174] The projection 24 and the groove 84 therefore advantageously provide an assembly aid, in particular an assembly guide.

[0175] Furthermore, for the exemplary case of a test contactor 1 with a single pivot joint 90, the projection 24 and the groove 84 can advantageously form a pivot guide, which in turn advantageously improves the repeatability of the tests performed with the test contactor 1.

[0176] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the pressure section 80 can in particular have one or more pressure elements 81, which are fastened to the pressure section 80 by means of one or more fixing means 83. By means of the fixing means 83, in particular, an inclination of the pressure element 81 relative to the insertion section 20 can be advantageously adjusted during the transition to the closed state and in particular to the test state, for example in order to ensure uniform and in particular flat contact of a test element 10 arranged on the test area 5. The pressure element 81 can in particular be prestressed towards the fixing means 83 by means of one or more prestressing means 82 of the pressure section 80, so that the pressure element 81 reliably assumes an orientation or inclination predetermined by the fixing means(s) 83.

[0177] This advantageously ensures uniform contacting by the pressure section 80, in particular contacting that protects contact elements 8.

[0178] In alternative embodiments, the pressure section 80 can be formed substantially in one piece, and in particular, in one piece with a pressure element 81 that protrudes toward the test element 10 in the test state. This advantageously makes the pressure section 80 easy to manufacture.

[0179] As in the Fig. 1 to 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16, the insert section 20 can comprise one or more inserts 40 which can be fastened to a frame section 30, in particular can be releasably fastened.

[0180] How to continue in the Fig. 5 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 15, the insert 40 comprises a plurality of contact elements 8, which, without being limited thereto, can be designed in particular as spring contact pins. The contact elements 8 of an insert 40 are designed to make electrically conductive contact with a test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1. The electrically conductive contact can be established by the contact elements 8, for example, with a test station or with a circuit board 2.

[0181] In Fig. 3 shows, by way of example, five test elements 10, and one test element 10 is partially shown, and an insert 40 is shown to which no test element 10 is arranged or applied.

[0182] As shown in the sectional views in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 15 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 16, the insert 40 can have a test region 5 on its upper side in the height direction H, on which the test element 10 can be arranged in order to make electrically conductive contact with the contact elements 8 arranged on or in the insert 40. The test region 5 can in particular be an area delimited between the insert 40 and the pressure section 80 or between the insert 40 and the pressure element 81 in the height direction H, H', on or into which the test element 10 can be arranged and in particular inserted.

[0183] In the test state of the test contactor 1, in particular when the clamping means 100 is engaged with the complementary clamping means 32, the test contactor 1 is designed to press the test element 10 against the insert 40 by means of the pressure section 80, in particular by means of the prestressed pressure element 81, in particular to press it against the contact elements 8 of the insert 40, so that the test element 10 is or will be electrically conductively contacted with the contact elements 8.

[0184] As particularly in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the insert 40 can in particular be formed in several pieces and have at least one insert element 50, one or more fastening means 42, and a base section 60.

[0185] The insert element 50 can be fastened to the base section 60, in particular by means of one or more fastening means 42. The fastening means 42 can, in particular, be an elastically resilient fastening means 42.

[0186] The base section 60, as in particular in Fig. 15, can be fastened to the frame section 30 of the insert section 20 by means of a connecting means 69, in particular can be detachably fastened.

[0187] The insert element 50 is, in particular, a part of the insert 40 facing the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor, i.e., in particular, an upper part of the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H. The base section 60 is, in particular, a part of the insert 40 facing away from the test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor, i.e., in particular, a lower part of the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H.

[0188] The base section 60 can, in particular, be designed to accommodate the insert element 50 in sections. The base section 60 can, for example, be trough-shaped. The base section 60 can, in particular, be designed to accommodate the insert element 50 at least in sections or in sections between opposing side surfaces 57 of the base section 60, in particular between side surfaces 57 of the base section 60 that are essentially opposite one another in the longitudinal direction L and / or essentially opposite one another in the width direction B.

[0189] The insert element 50 can, for example, be formed in a trough shape, in particular complementary to the base section 60, in particular such that mutually facing side surfaces 55, 57 of the insert element 50 and the base section 60 adjoin one another and, for example, have a spacing in the adjacent direction of less than approximately 2 mm, in particular of less than approximately 1.4 mm, furthermore in particular of less than approximately 1 mm, for example in the range from approximately 0 mm to approximately 2 mm, in particular in the range from approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 1.4 mm, furthermore in particular in the range from approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 1 mm.

[0190] Thus, the insert element 50 can advantageously be guided through the base section 60, in particular guided substantially in the top-bottom direction H. As a result, the insert element 50 can further advantageously form a guide for the contact elements 8 that is movable in the top-bottom direction H, and accordingly a support and / or protection for the contact elements 8.

[0191] As particularly demonstrated by the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the insert 40 can, in particular, have an elastically resilient fastening means 42. In particular, the insert 40 can have only a single fastening means 42 for fastening the insert element 50 to the base section 60. This advantageously makes the insert element 50 easy to mount and dismount on the base section.

[0192] The insert element 50 can, in particular, comprise a plurality of holes 51, which are designed to partially surround the contact elements 8, in particular to partially surround an upper end of the contact elements 8. The base section 60 can, in particular, comprise a plurality of holes 61, which are designed to receive the contact elements 8. The holes 61 of the base section 60 and the holes 51 of the insert element 50 are, in particular, arranged or formed substantially aligned with one another in the top-bottom direction H.

[0193] The holes 51, 61 of the insert element 50 and the base section 60 advantageously support and, in particular, protect the contact elements 8, thereby further advantageously improving the service life of the contact elements 8 and, accordingly, of the test contactor 1. The holes 51, 61 can, in particular, be arranged or formed continuously on the insert element 50 or the base section 60, and, in particular, extend substantially parallel to the top-bottom direction.

[0194] As through the Fig. 8b, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c and Fig. 10, the insert element 50 can have a translational degree of freedom essentially in the top-bottom direction H relative to the base section 60 by means of the fastening means 42. The translational degree of freedom essentially in the top-bottom direction H can be limited in particular by means of the fastening means 42, as in the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 9b, wherein a stop portion 47 of the fastening means 42 is in contact with or abuts against a complementary stop 63 of the base portion 60.

[0195] The fastening means 42 can in particular have a substantially circular stop portion 47, from which an engagement portion 43 extends in the top-bottom direction H. The stop portion 47 can in particular have a larger cross-section or larger diameter than an opening 62 of the base portion 60 in the region of the complementary stop 63 of the base portion 60. In other words, the complementary stop 63 of the base portion 60 can in particular provide a positive fit for the stop portion 47 of the fastening means 42, in particular a positive fit substantially in the top-bottom direction H, so that the translational degree of freedom of the insert element 50 is advantageously limited.

[0196] The insert element 50 may in particular have a shoulder 56 in order to engage or be engaged with the engagement portion 43 of the fastening means 42 in a state fastened to the base portion 60.

[0197] In exemplary embodiments, the insert element 50 can, in particular, have a collar 54 that extends substantially in a hollow cylinder in the top-bottom direction H, in particular, extending substantially downward in the top-bottom direction H from the insert element 50. The collar 54 can, in particular, have a smaller outer diameter than an inner diameter of the opening 62 of the base section 60 in the region of the complementary stop 63 of the base section 60. As a result, the insert element 50 with the collar 54 can advantageously be easily pre-assembled on the base section 60, which further advantageously facilitates connection to the fastening means 42.

[0198] The collar 54 may in particular have the shoulder 56 for engagement of the engagement portion 43 of the fastening means 42.

[0199] In exemplary embodiments, the shoulder 56 can be arranged or formed in a central portion of the collar 54 along the top-bottom direction H. As a result, the fastening means 42 can advantageously engage the insert element 50, and in particular the collar 54 of the insert element 50, without protruding upward from the collar 54 in the top-bottom direction H, thereby further ensuring an advantageously large test area 5 for a test element 10.

[0200] The fastening means 42 can, in particular, be rotatable, i.e., rotatable about the central axis of the opening 52 of the insert element 50, and can be brought into engagement with the insert element 50. This can advantageously simplify the connection of the insert element 50 to the fastening means 42. In other words, the connection between the insert element 50 and the fastening means 42 can, in particular, have a rotational degree of freedom, in particular a rotational degree of freedom substantially about the central axis z of the opening 52 of the insert element 50.

[0201] The rotational degree of freedom of the insert element 50 relative to the fastening means 42 can be restricted or blocked, in particular, by mutually facing side surfaces 55, 57 of the insert element 50 and the base section 60, at least for the insert element 50 or only for the insert element 50. As a result, the fastening means 42 and its connection to the insert element 50 can advantageously be designed in a simple manner, with the fastening means 42 forming a limitation of a translational degree of freedom of the insert element 50, and the base section 60, advantageously independently, forming a limitation of a rotational degree of freedom of the insert element 50.

[0202] The insert element 50 and / or the base section 60 can have an opening 52, 62, which is arranged or formed substantially in the geometric center Z of the insert element 50 or the base section 60, respectively. As a result, the insert element 50 can advantageously be guided evenly through the fastening means 42 and the adjacent side surfaces 57 of the base section 60, in particular, substantially in the top-bottom direction H.

[0203] The fastening means 42 can in particular have a plurality of spring arms 44 which extend substantially in the top-bottom direction H from the stop portion 47 of the fastening means 42, for example two, three, four, five, six or more spring arms 44.

[0204] The spring arms 44 each have, in particular, a projection 45 that extends substantially perpendicularly outward from the central axis z, in particular to engage the shoulder 56 of the insert element 50. When the respective spring arm 44 engages the shoulder 56, the spring arm 44 is, in particular, in a relaxed or elastically restored state. By, in particular, elastically resilient deformation of the spring arms 44 toward the central axis z, the fastening means 42 can be detachable from the insert element 50.

[0205] The spring arms 44 of the fastening means 42 can be separated from one another, in particular by a recess 46, wherein the recess 46 separates the spring arms 44 from one another essentially along the top-bottom direction H. The recess 46 can additionally or alternatively comprise a central hole through the fastening means 42, so that the spring arms 44 are arranged at least partially opposite one another, in particular with respect to a central axis z through the hole or through the recess 46.

[0206] In exemplary embodiments, the fastening means 42 can in particular comprise exactly two opposing spring arms 44, whereby the fastening means 42 can advantageously be easily connected to the insert element 50 and detachable therefrom.

[0207] As particularly in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 10, the insert 40 may include one or more biasing means 58.

[0208] The prestressing means(s) 58 can be arranged or accommodated at least in sections in the base section 60 of the insert. Furthermore, the prestressing means(s) 58 can be designed in particular to prestress the insert element 50 away from the base section 60, that is to say in particular to prestress the insert element 50 substantially upwards in the top-bottom direction. The prestressing means(s) 58 can be designed in particular to prestress the insert element 50 upwards or towards the test element 10 in the test state such that the insert element 50 in the open state is in the upper limit position defined by the fastening means 42, as in particular in Fig. 9b shown.

[0209] As a result, the contact elements 8 can be advantageously supported and protected by the insert element 50 in the open state of the test contactor 1, for example by the holes 51 of the insert element 50 surrounding the contact elements 8 at least in sections, and / or by the insert element 50 projecting further upwards than the upper ends of the contact elements 8 arranged on the insert 40.

[0210] If the test contactor 1 is pivoted from the open state to the closed state or into the test position, the test element 10 pressed by the pressure section 80 or the pressure element 81 of the pressure section 80 advantageously first comes into contact with the insert element 50, and only upon further pressing, towards the closed state or into the test position, does the test element 10 come into contact with the contact elements 8 by pressing the pressure section 80 or the pressure element 81. This advantageously reduces initial pressure on the contact elements 8. Furthermore, accidental or unwanted direct contact with the contact elements 8 in the open state of the test contactor 1 can be advantageously prevented, and the contact elements 8 can be protected accordingly.

[0211] The prestressing means(s) 58 can, in particular, be elastically resilient prestressing means 58 and, for example, comprise one or more springs, in particular spiral springs, and / or one or more elastomeric elements. In exemplary embodiments, the prestressing means(s) 58 can be arranged distributed around the geometric center Z of the insert 40 or around the geometric center Z of the insert element 50.

[0212] As a result, the insert element 50 can advantageously be arranged on the insert 40 so as to be prestressed towards the test element 10, in particular it can be arranged on the insert 40 so as to be uniformly prestressed towards the test element 10.

[0213] As particularly in the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. As shown in Figure 11c, the insert 40 can comprise a plurality of openings 67 or coding openings 67. The coding openings 67 are particularly designed to be equipped with at least one pin 68 each, in particular such that the at least one pin 68 is partially received in a coding opening 67 and partially protrudes upward in the top-bottom direction H, in particular protrudes toward the test element 10 in the test state.

[0214] By equipping or arranging one or more pins 68 in the plurality of coding openings 67, the insert 40, and accordingly in particular the insertion section 20, can have a test element-specific coding. In other words, the coding is formed by one or more projections or by a coding pattern of projections formed by the one or more pins 68 arranged in the coding openings 67.

[0215] The Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. 11c show exemplary codings or coding patterns by means of a pin 68 arranged in a coding opening 67. The Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. The exemplary codings shown in Figure 11c can be combined with one another to form further codings or coding patterns. Thus, in particular, more than one pin 68, and in particular different pins 68, can be arranged in the coding openings 67.

[0216] In Fig. 3 shows, by way of example, some codes 14 or coding recesses 14 of a test element 10 or a test module 12 on which several test elements 10 are arranged. For clarity, only some codes 14 or coding recesses 14 are provided with reference numerals in the figures.

[0217] How to continue in Fig. 3 by way of example, the coding openings 67 of the inserts 40 can be equipped with a pin 68, in particular equipped with different pins 68. By equipping a plurality of coding openings 67 with different pins 68 from one another, for example by means of pins 68 of different cross-sections or diameters, the insert 40 or the insertion section 20 can have a coding for a test element 10 or a test module 12 on which a plurality of test elements 10 are arranged. By means of the different pins 68, the insert 40 or the insertion section 40 can have a coding for a test element 10 or for a test module 12, which prevents a test element 10 or test module 12 from being attached or inserted rotated in the plane, for example rotated by 180° about a line substantially parallel to the height direction H, and / or which prevents a test element 10 orTest module 12 is prevented from being turned upside down, for example rotated by 180° around a line essentially parallel to the width direction B.

[0218] This advantageously prevents incorrect insertion of test elements 10 and / or test modules 12, which further advantageously improves the test accuracy of the test contactor 1, as well as the longevity of the contact elements 8, and accordingly of the test contactor 1, since a possibly undesirable or even harmful insertion and contacting of the contact elements 8 by the protruding pins 68 is prevented.

[0219] The coding openings 67 can be arranged in particular on a coding section 66 of the base section 60, in particular on coding sections 66 of the base section 60 that are substantially opposite one another in the longitudinal direction L.

[0220] In exemplary embodiments, the coding openings 67 can be arranged or formed asymmetrically with respect to a line parallel to the width direction B on the insert 40, that is to say asymmetrically with respect to a mirror axis parallel to the width direction B and extending through the center Z.

[0221] As a result, a coding can advantageously be provided by just one pin 68, which prevents a test element 10 or test module 12 from being attached or inserted upside down, i.e., which prevents a test element 10 or test module 12 from being attached or inserted, for example, rotated by 180° about a line substantially parallel to the width direction B.

[0222] In further exemplary embodiments, the coding openings 67 can be arranged or formed asymmetrically with respect to a point symmetry on the insert 40, i.e. asymmetrically with respect to an axis of symmetry running along the central axis z or asymmetrically with respect to an imaginary point on the central axis z that lies in a plane of the coding sections 66 of the base section 60.

[0223] For example, the insert 40 may comprise an even number of coding openings 67 on one side of coding sections 66 opposite one another in the longitudinal direction L, and an odd number of coding openings 67 on the other side.

[0224] By a corresponding asymmetrical fitting or arrangement of pins 68 in the coding openings 67 arranged or formed asymmetrically with respect to a point symmetry, it is advantageously possible to prevent an attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 in a rotated manner in the plane, for example an attachment or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12 rotated by 180° about a line substantially parallel to the height direction H.

[0225] In exemplary embodiments, pairs of coding openings 67 arranged opposite one another in the longitudinal direction L can have the same cross-section or diameter. This advantageously ensures the simple formation of a coding pattern or a coding facing the test element 10, for which, for example, one pin 68 or a plurality of pins 68 of the same predetermined diameter or cross-section are sufficient.

[0226] In further exemplary embodiments, coding openings 67 that are arranged on the same coding section 66, i.e., are not arranged opposite one another in the longitudinal direction L, can have a different cross-section or diameter. This advantageously enables a reliable formation of a coding pattern or a coding facing the test element 10, which prevents incorrect positioning or insertion of a test element 10 or test module 12.

[0227] As through the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b and Fig. As further shown in Figure 11c, the insert 40 may in particular comprise fixing means 70, particularly if the base portion 60 of the insert 40 is formed in multiple pieces, and in particular comprises an upper base portion 64 in the top-bottom direction H and a lower base portion 65 in the top-bottom direction H. The fixing means 70 may, without being limited thereto, comprise in particular holes, positioning means, such as bolts, and screw connections.

[0228] As a result, the upper and lower base sections 64, 65 can each be easily manufactured, and in particular the opening 62 in the base section 60 for the upper and lower base sections 64, 65 can each be easily introduced or manufactured.

[0229] In alternative embodiments, the base portion 60 can be formed substantially in one piece. This advantageously allows for a consistent alignment of the holes 61 for receiving the contact elements 8 to be produced precisely and, in particular, easily.

[0230] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the test contactor 1 may in particular comprise a support element 110, in particular a support element 110 as shown in the Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c shown.

[0231] The test contactor 1 can comprise one or more support elements 110, in particular in the transport state of the test contactor 1, in the open state of the test contactor 1, in the closed state of the test contactor 1, and / or in the test state of the test contactor 1.

[0232] The transport state of the test contactor 1 represents, in particular, a state wherein the support element 110 is arranged on the test contactor 1, in particular wherein the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, in particular connected to the insertion section 20 from below in the top-bottom direction H. The transport state of the test contactor 1 is further configured, in particular, in that no circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110, or no circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1.In order to ensure safe transport of the test contactor 1 in the transport state, the transport state can in particular comprise a closed state of the test contactor 1, i.e. a state wherein the pressure section 80 is pivoted towards the insertion section 20, in particular pivoted such that the clamping means 100 and the complementary clamping means 32 of the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 are engaged.

[0233] Alternatively, the transport of the test contactor 1 can also take place in the open state of the test contactor 1, for example stacked in the open state.

[0234] The test state of the test contactor 1 represents, in particular, a state wherein the support element 110 is arranged on the test contactor 1, in particular wherein the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, in particular connected to the insertion section 20 from below in the top-bottom direction H. The test state of the test contactor 1 is further configured, in particular, in that a test element 10 is arranged on the insertion section 20, the test contactor 1 is in the closed state, and optionally a printed circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110.

[0235] The support element 110 can comprise one or more projection sections 112, which protrude on a side of the support element 110 facing the insertion section 20, essentially in the top-bottom direction H. The projection section(s) 112 can be arranged or formed, in particular, centrally on the support element 110 in the longitudinal direction L. On the outside in the longitudinal direction L, the support element 110 can in particular have one or more fastening means 115, which can, for example, be at least partially received in the support element 110. The fastening means(s) 115 can in particular be received in the support element 110 in such a way that, in the test state, none of the fastening means 115 protrudes downward in the top-bottom direction H from the support element 110. As a result, the test contactor 1 can advantageously be securely positioned on a worktop.

[0236] The support element 110 may comprise one or more recessed sections 114 which, on a side of the support element 110 facing the insertion section 20, substantially in the top-bottom direction H, in particular relative to the one or more projection sections 112.

[0237] In exemplary embodiments, projection sections 112 and recessed sections 114 can be formed, in particular, alternating with one another. Accordingly, the support element 110 can provide one or more cavities 116, in particular between the projection sections 112, and in particular on a side facing the insertion section 20 or on a side facing the insert 40 of the insertion section 20. The cavities 116 are, in particular, regions delimited from below essentially in the top-bottom direction H by the support element 110, in particular by the recessed section(s) 114. In other words, the cavities 116 are, in particular, regions protected by the support element 110. The cavities 116 can optionally additionally be regions delimited, in particular, laterally, i.e., essentially in the longitudinal direction L and / or in the width direction B, by the support element 110, in particular by the projection section(s) 112.

[0238] By virtue of the projection sections 112 and recessed sections 114 arranged alternately with one another, a labyrinth-like protection can advantageously be formed on a lower side of the insertion section 20 or of the insert 40 in the top-bottom direction H. The labyrinth-like protection is configured in particular such that direct access to the contact elements 8 from below is or will be prevented, and in particular direct access to the contact elements 8 from obliquely below is or will be made difficult or prevented.

[0239] In exemplary embodiments, the projection portions 112 can be arranged on the support element 110 such that they are not aligned with the contact elements 8 in the top-bottom direction H. In particular, the projection portions 112 can be arranged on the support element 110 such that they border an alignment of the contact elements 8 in the top-bottom direction H in the longitudinal direction L and / or in the width direction B.

[0240] This advantageously prevents the contact elements 8 from being pressed by the support element 110 during transport. Furthermore, in the test state, it is advantageously possible to ensure support of the insert 40, and in particular of a circuit board 2 arranged on the insert 40 from below, which is pressed by the contact elements 8 during the test state and possibly subjected to bending stress and, in particular, bent. As a result, the support element 110 is advantageously designed to be functionally integral and can advantageously improve the service life of the contact elements 8, the circuit board 2, and, in particular, the test contactor 1.

[0241] The support element 110 can have one or more step-shaped contours 118, in particular at at least two spaced-apart locations on the support element 110, in particular on two outer sections of the support element 110 in the longitudinal direction L. The step-shaped contour(s) 118 can protrude toward the insertion section, in particular on a side facing the insertion section 20 in the transport state and in the test state. The insertion section 20, and in particular the frame section 30 of the insertion section 20, can have step-shaped sections 34 complementary to the one or more step-shaped contours 118, in particular on a lower side of the insertion section 20 in the top-bottom direction H.

[0242] The one or more step-shaped contours 118, together with the step-shaped sections 34, advantageously enable a positive and thus particularly secure positioning of the support element 110 relative to the insertion section 20 during assembly, and accordingly facilitates the assembly of the test contactor 1 for the transport state.

[0243] The support element 110 can further comprise one or more fastening means 115 for fastening to the insert section 20, in particular for fastening to the frame section 30 of the insert section 20. The fastening means 115 can, for example, comprise a screw connection, a resilient clip, and / or a frictionally connecting bolt. The fastening means 115 can, in particular, be at least partially received in the support element 110 and, in particular, be arranged in the top-bottom direction H below the step-shaped contours 118. In exemplary embodiments, the fastening means 115 can be arranged in the support element 110 in a captive manner, for example by means of a projection, a retaining ring, a retaining pin, or the like.

[0244] Fig. 18a and Fig. 18b show a flow diagram of a use of an insert 40 according to an embodiment.

[0245] The use of an insert 40, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 18a, may in particular include the following steps: S10: Provision of insert 40; S20: Detaching the fastening means 42 from the insert element 50; and S30: Removing the insert element 50 from the base section 60.

[0246] The steps S10, S20 and S30 can in particular be carried out in exactly this order. The use of the insert 40 can in particular refer to an insert 40 as described herein and as in particular in connection with the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 shown and described.

[0247] Following step S30, the use of the insert 40 can, for example: - comprise a step of adjusting and / or adjusting and / or exchanging one or more pretensioning means 58; and / or - comprise a step of adapting and / or adjusting and / or exchanging one or more contact elements 8.

[0248] Furthermore, the use of the insert 40 may include a step of attaching another insert element 50 to the base portion 60 by means of the fastening means 42, or a step of reattaching the insert element 50 to the base portion 60 by means of the fastening means 42.

[0249] As a result, the insert 40 can advantageously be adjusted to suit the specific application of a test element 10, advantageously adjustable for a specific test, for example for a test with a predetermined force and / or pressure curve, and advantageously one or more contact elements 8 can be easily exchanged.

[0250] The use of an insert 40, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 18b, may in particular include the following steps: S110: Provision of insert 40; and S120: Arranging one or more pins 68 in at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67 to form a coding facing the test element 10 in the test state.

[0251] Steps S110 and S120 can, in particular, be carried out in exactly this order. The use of the insert 40 can, in particular, refer to an insert 40 as described herein and as described in particular in connection with the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 9c, Fig. 10, Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b, Fig. 11c, Fig. 15, Fig. 16 and Fig. 18a shown and described.

[0252] Following step S120, the use of the insert 40 may, for example: - a step of removing one or more of the pins 68 from at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67, to form a further coding facing the test element 10 in the test state, which is different from the previous coding; and / or - a step of arranging one or more of the pins 68 in at least one opening 67 of the plurality of openings 67, to form a further coding facing the test element 10 in the test state, which is different from the previous coding.

[0253] As a result, the insertion section 20 or the insert 40 can advantageously be adjusted in an application-specific manner for a test element 10 or for a test module 12, wherein an incorrect arrangement of the test element 10 or the test module 12, which has a predetermined coding by one or more coding recesses 14, on the insertion section 20 or on the insert 40 can advantageously be prevented.

[0254] Fig. 19 shows a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a test contactor 1.

[0255] The method for producing a test contactor 1, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 19, may in particular include the following steps: S210: Providing an insertion section 20 with a pressure section 80 which is pivotally mounted on the insertion section 20, wherein the insertion section 20 comprises a test area 5 to which the electrically conductive test element 10 can be attached, and which comprises contact elements 8 which are designed to electrically conductively contact the electrically conductive test element 10 in the test state of the test contactor 1, wherein the pressure section 80 is designed to press the electrically conductive test element 10 against the plurality of contact elements 8 in the test state of the test contactor 1; S220: Providing a support element 110; and S230: Connecting the support element 110 to the insert section 20 such that the support element 110 forms a protection for the contact elements 8.

[0256] The steps S210, S220 and S230 can in particular be carried out exactly in this order. The production of the test contactor 1 can in particular relate to a test contactor 1 as described herein and as in particular in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15 and 16 are shown and described.

[0257] The step S230 of connecting the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 can in particular be carried out in such a way that no circuit board 2 is arranged between the insertion section 20 and the support element 110, or in such a way that no circuit board 2 is arranged on the test contactor 1 in contact with the contact elements 8.

[0258] The test contactor 1 thus produced represents, in particular, a test contactor 1 in the transport state. The transport state can, in particular, be a closed state of the test contactor 1. The transport state of the test contactor 1 can furthermore be a state of the test contactor 1 wherein no test element 10 is arranged on the insertion section 20 and / or no printed circuit board 2 is arranged on the insertion section 20.

[0259] The transport state of the test contactor 1, wherein the support element 110 is connected to the insertion section 20, in particular from below in the top-bottom direction H, advantageously represents a state in which the contact elements 8 are protected. The contact elements 8 are protected in particular in such a way that direct access to the contact elements 8, in particular essentially from below, is prevented by the support element 110.

[0260] The connection of the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 such that the contact elements 8 are protected, in particular in the top-bottom direction H, from below, does not have to include hermetic shielding of the contact elements 8, but in particular includes preventing direct access essentially from below, for example by the hand of a user, or by a tool commonly used for handling test contactors.

[0261] This advantageously protects the contact elements 8. In conjunction with the insert 40 and the insert element 50, which is biased upward in the top-bottom direction H, and / or in conjunction with the closed state of the test contactor 1, wherein the clamping means 100 engages the complementary clamping means 32, the contact elements 8 can also be advantageously protected at the top, and the test contactor 1 can be configured accordingly to be advantageously durable.

[0262] Following step S230, the test contactor 1 can be used in particular by detaching the support element 110, arranging a circuit board 2 on the insertion section 20 such that it electrically contacts the contact elements 8, and connecting the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 such that the circuit board 2 is supported by the support element 110. As a result, the test contactor 1 can be advantageously prepared for use in a test with a test element 10 or test module 12 arranged or to be arranged on the insertion section 20, wherein the longevity of the circuit board 2 and the repeatability of the tests performed with the test contactor 1 can advantageously be improved.

[0263] Fig. 20a and Fig. 20b show a flow diagram of a use of a support element 110 according to an embodiment.

[0264] The use of a support element 110, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 20a, relates in particular to a use of a support element 110 for a test contactor 1 for testing an electrically conductive test element 10 for protecting contact elements 8 of the test contactor 1 during transport.

[0265] The use of the support element 110 as in Fig. 20a, may in particular comprise the following step: S310: Connecting the support element 110 to the test contactor 1 without a printed circuit board 2 arranged therebetween.

[0266] The use of the support element 110 may in particular relate to a test contactor 1 and / or a support element 110 as described herein and as particularly in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 19 are shown and described.

[0267] By means of the support element 110, the contact elements 8 can be advantageously protected, in particular substantially protected from below, in particular by connecting the support element 110 from below in the top-bottom direction H to the insertion section 20, whereby the longevity of the contact elements 8 and accordingly of the test contactor 1 is further advantageously improved.

[0268] The use of a support element 110, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 20b, may in particular include the following steps: S410: Detaching the support element 110 from the test contactor 1; S420: Arranging a printed circuit board 2 on the test contactor 1; and S430: Connecting the support element 110 to the test contactor 1 such that the circuit board 2 is supported by the support element 110 in a test state of the test contactor 1.

[0269] Steps S410, S420, and S430 can, in particular, be performed in exactly this order. The use of the support element 110 can, in particular, relate to an insert 40, as described herein and as described in particular in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19 and 20a are shown and described.

[0270] As shown by the flowcharts in the Fig. 20a and Fig. 20b, the present support element 110 is advantageously designed to be functionally integral both for protecting contact elements 8, in particular in the transport state of the test contactor 1, and for supporting a printed circuit board 2, in particular in the test state of the test contactor 1, wherein a pressure section 80 presses a test element 10 against the contact elements 8, and the contact elements 8 in turn against the printed circuit board 2.

[0271] Furthermore, the present support element 110 facilitates the assembly of the test contactor 1 for the test state, since all necessary fastening means 115 for connecting the support element 110 to the insertion section 20 can already be present for connecting the support element 110 in the transport state. Accordingly, loose assembly parts or loose fastening means 115 can be advantageously avoided.

[0272] Fig. 21 shows a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a test contactor 1.

[0273] The method for producing a test contactor 1, as exemplified in the flow chart in Fig. 21, may in particular include the following steps: S510: Providing an insert section 20; S520: Providing a printing section 80; S530: Providing at least one pivot joint 90, which comprises an axial element 92, a return means 94 and a base 98, wherein the at least one pivot joint 90 is designed to pivotably couple the pressure section 80 to the insertion section 20 in a resilient manner, and wherein one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening region 22, 86 for the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90, and wherein the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening region 22, 86 for the arrangement of the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90, the fastening region 22, 86 has two stops 88, 89 for the axial element 92, which in the thickness direction H of one of the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20 on mutually opposite sides of the pressure section 80 or Insertion section 20 are arranged, wherein the fastening areas 22,86 of the pressure section 80 and the insertion section 20, the axial element 92 and the base 98 are designed in such a way that the axial element 92 and the base 98 can be mounted on the respective fastening area 22, 86 without prestress;, S540: Arranging the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90 in the at least one fastening region 22, 86 of one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80; and S550: Arranging the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90 on or in the fastening area 22, 86 of the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80.

[0274] Steps S530, S540 and S550 may alternatively comprise in particular: - Providing at least one pivot joint 90, which comprises an axial element 92, a return means 94 and a base 98, wherein the at least one pivot joint 90 is designed to pivotably couple the pressure section 80 to the insertion section 20 in a resilient manner, and wherein one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening region 22, 86 for the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90, and wherein the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80 has at least one fastening region 22, 86 for the arrangement of the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90, - prestress-free arrangement of the axial element 92 of the at least one pivot joint 90 in the at least one fastening region 22, 86 of one of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80; and - prestress-free arrangement of the base 98 of the at least one pivot joint 90 on or in the fastening region 22, 86 of the other of the insertion section 20 and the pressure section 80.

[0275] Steps S510, S520, S530, S540, and S550 can be carried out entirely or partially, in particular, in exactly this order. The production of the test contactor 1 can, in particular, relate to a test contactor 1 as described herein and as described, in particular, in connection with the Fig. 1 to 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20a and 20b are shown and described.

[0276] The test contactor 1 produced in this way represents, in particular, a test contactor 1 that can advantageously be mounted without prestressing. In other words, the test contactor 1 produced in this way is, in particular, an easily mounted test contactor 1, in particular an easily mounted resilient test contactor 1 that protects, in particular, contact elements 8. List of reference symbols 1 test contactor 2 circuit board 5 Test area 8 Contact element 10 test elements 12 test module 14 Coding or coding recess (of the test element) 20 Insert section 22 Fastening area (of the insert section) 23 Level 24 projection (of the insert section) 30 frame section 32 complementary clamping device 34 complementary stepped sections 40 use 42 fasteners 43 intervention section 44 Spring arm (of the fastener) 45 projection (of the fastener) 46 recess 47 stop section 50 insert element 51 holes (of the insert element) 52 Opening (of the insert element) 54 collar 55 Side surface (of the insert element) 56 shoulder 57 Side surface (of the base section) 58 Preloading means (of the insert) 60 base section 61 holes (of the base section) 62 Opening (of the base section) 63 complementary stop (of the base section) 64 upper base section 65 lower base section 66 Coding section 67 Coding opening 68 pen 69 tethering devices 70 Fixatives 80 print section 81 Pressure element 82 Preloading means (of the printing section) 83 Fixatives 84 groove 85 spring arm mount 86 Mounting area (of the pressure section) 87 Opening (of the fastening area) 88 first attack 89 second attack 90 swivel joint 92 axial element 94 Retention agents 96 first spring arm (of the return means) 98 bases 100 clamping devices 110 Support element 112 projection section 114 Return section 115 Fasteners (of the support element) 116 cavity 118 stepped contour B Width direction B' Width direction (of the printing section) H Height direction or top-bottom direction H' Height direction (of the printing section) or thickness direction (of the printing section) L longitudinal direction L' Longitudinal direction (of the printing section) SA swivel axis S10-S30 Steps to use an insert S110-S120 Steps to use an insert S210-S230 Steps of a method for manufacturing a test contactor S310 Step for using a support element S410-S430 Steps for using a support element S510-S550 Steps of a method for manufacturing a test contactor z central axis Z Center

Claims

[1] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), - wherein the insert (40) comprises a plurality of contact elements (8) which are designed to electrically conductively contact the electrically conductive test element (10) in the test state of the test contactor (1), - wherein the insert (40) comprises a plurality of openings (67), wherein the openings (66) are arranged on an upper side of the insert (40) facing the test element (10) in the test state, - wherein in the test state at least one pin (68) is arranged in at least one opening (67) of the plurality of openings (67) such that the insert has a coding for a test element (10) corresponding to the coding. [2] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of openings (67) are formed on the insert (40) such that in the test state by arranging one or more pins (68) in the openings (67) the insert (40) optionally has a symmetrical or asymmetrical coding. [3] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the openings (67) are arranged at least partially opposite one another with respect to a center (Z) of the insert (40). [4] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing (10) an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of openings (67) is odd-numbered. [5] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two openings (67) have a different cross-section from one another. [6] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the insert (40) is formed in several pieces, such that the insert (40) has an upper insert element (50) facing the test element (10) in the test state, which insert element is fastened to a lower base section (60) with a translational degree of freedom, wherein the base section (60) is designed to delimit the insert element (50) at least in sections laterally and from below, and wherein the base section (60) has a coding section (66) which extends laterally further than the insert element (50) and which has at least some of the plurality of openings (67). [7] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 6, wherein the base portion (60) has two opposing coding portions (66). [8] Insert (40) for a test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the insert (40) comprises a biasing means (58) which is designed to bias the insert element (50) relative to the base portion (60). [9] Test contactor (1) for testing an electrically conductive test element (10), the test contactor (1) comprising: - an insert (40) according to one of claims 1 to 8, -- wherein the insert (40) comprises a test area (5) to which the electrically conductive test element (10) can be arranged, -- wherein in the test state at least one pin (68) is arranged in the plurality of openings (67); and - a pressure section (80) which is pivotally mounted relative to the insert (40) and which is designed to press the electrically conductive test element (10) towards the at least one pin (68) in the test state of the test contactor (1). [10] Use of an insert (40) according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps: - Providing the deployment (40); - Arranging one or more pins (68) in at least one opening (67) of the plurality of openings (67) to form a coding facing the test element (10) in the test state.

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