Carrier Board Transfer System for Handler Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrier board transfer systems in electronic device testing handlers face limitations in transfer speed and circulation speed due to transfer stop time periods and inability to gather carrier boards close to each other, which are essential for rapid and efficient testing under short test conditions.
Innovation Solution
A carrier board transfer system that includes a transfer apparatus and supporting apparatuses to selectively transfer carrier boards to mid positions and a final position without stop time, using guide and sustaining apparatuses to support and release the boards, allowing for continuous transfer and alignment of carrier boards in the transfer direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a step by step transfer method is used to transfer carrier board in chamber, then the transfer system is simple and easy to control, but the transfer speed and circulation speed are reduced due to transfer stop time periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous transfer of carrier boards through the chamber by eliminating stop time periods between transfers. The transfer system maintains continuous motion of carrier boards from the input side to the output side, allowing multiple carrier boards to be transferred simultaneously without interruption, thereby increasing transfer speed while managing system complexity through coordinated control of transfer means.
2Productivity
If carrier boards are transferred with spacing between them in chamber, then each carrier board can be properly positioned, but the circulation speed is reduced due to inability to gather carrier boards close to each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic positioning of carrier boards where the spacing between carrier boards can be adjusted during the transfer process. The transfer system can gather carrier boards close to each other when needed to increase circulation speed, while maintaining proper positioning through active control mechanisms that adapt to different operational requirements.
3Reliability
If transfer stop time period is secured during carrier board transfer, then carrier board positioning is accurate and stable, but the total circulation time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning and stabilization of carrier boards before transfer operations begin. Carrier boards are pre-positioned and secured in place prior to movement, ensuring accurate positioning without requiring stop time periods during the actual transfer process. This preliminary action maintains transfer stability while minimizing circulation time.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method is disclosed that transfers carrier boards in a handler that supports the testing of electronic devices. A carrier board can be transferred from the transfer start position to one of the mid transfer positions and the transfer final position. Carrier boards, which are spaced apart from each other in a chamber, can be gathered adjacent to each other in the circulation direction of carrier board. The transfer speed and the total circulation speed of the carrier boards can be enhanced. The transfer speed of carrier board can be easily controlled according to the test conditions.