Automated Test System Using Multi-Level Robotics and Parallel Stages
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Solution Overview
Problem
System-level testing (SLT) systems require large footprints to achieve sufficient testing speed and throughput, leading to space and resource inefficiencies as the complexity and number of device components increase.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a modular automated test system with robotics and pneumatic systems that operate at multiple levels of precision, utilizing parallel paths and air-controlled mechanisms to efficiently move and position devices within a compact footprint, allowing for high throughput and precision testing in a reduced physical space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional SLT systems are used to achieve sufficient testing speed and throughput, then testing capability is improved, but system footprint increases to dozens of square meters
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent stages (first stage, second stage, third stage, etc.) that can operate in parallel. Each stage contains its own test sockets and can process devices independently, allowing the system to achieve high throughput without requiring a large monolithic structure. This segmentation enables compact arrangement while maintaining testing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by positioning test sockets at different heights and depths within each stage. Devices are transferred vertically and horizontally through multiple levels, effectively using vertical space to reduce the horizontal footprint. The multi-level configuration allows dense packing of testing resources without increasing the overall floor area.
2Measurement precision
If high precision robotics are used to move devices between test sockets, then device positioning accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device transfer function is segmented into multiple simple operations performed by different components: stages are positioned by linear actuators, individual test sockets are rotated independently, and devices are grasped by simple end effectors. This breakdown of complex positioning into multiple simple, independent actions reduces overall system complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic stages are designed with multi-functionality, capable of both positioning devices precisely and performing test operations. The same stage structure serves multiple purposes: holding test sockets, moving devices between sockets, and providing precise positioning. This universal design reduces the number of specialized components needed, thereby reducing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An example test system includes robotics configured to operate on devices at a first level of precision, and stages configured to operate at levels of precision that are less than the first level of precision. Each of the stages may include parallel paths that are configured to pass the devices between adjacent stages.