CMT Socket Retention and Alignment for Damage-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current socket architectures, particularly compression mounted technology (CMT) socket architectures, face challenges during assembly and shipping due to blind alignment processes, leading to potential damage and defects, as well as the need for symmetric loading to prevent damage during shipping.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating visible alignment features for initial coarse alignment followed by precise alignment, and providing fastening systems that secure the socket without preloading the CMT interconnect pins, along with shipping solutions that either allow the pins to float above the board or compress them symmetrically to prevent damage from vibrations and shocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a blind assembly process is used for pin alignment, then the assembly process can be automated, but the alignment precision deteriorates leading to bent contacts and assembly defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment features (alignment pins, alignment holes, or alignment marks) as intermediary elements that mediate between the automated assembly system and the socket/board components. These alignment features provide visible reference points that guide the automated placement machine to correctly position the socket, thereby maintaining both automation and alignment precision.
2Reliability
If the press fit is made tight to prevent socket movement, then the socket retention is improved, but the risk of contact damage and skiving increases during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements alignment features before the final press-fit operation. The alignment pins or marks are positioned in advance to guide the socket into correct alignment with the board lands. This preliminary alignment action prevents misalignment during the press-fit operation, allowing for a controlled fit that secures the socket without causing contact damage or skiving.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the socket is secured firmly to the board, then assembly stability is improved, but shipping damage risk increases due to inability to accommodate vibration and shock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a retention mechanism that provides controlled retention rather than rigid fixation. The alignment features and retention structure allow the socket to remain stable during assembly and operation while accommodating certain degrees of movement or flexibility during shipping to absorb vibration and shock without causing damage.
4Ease of operation
If alignment features are made visible for easier assembly, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional alignment components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates alignment features into the existing socket and board structures in a multi-functional manner. The alignment pins serve both as structural support elements and as visible alignment guides. The alignment marks on the board serve dual purposes of visual guidance and positioning references. This multi-functionality approach provides visible alignment for ease of operation without significantly increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein include sockets and electronic packages with socket architectures. In an embodiment, a socket comprises a housing with a first surface and a second surface. In an embodiment, a plurality of interconnect pins pass through the housing. In an embodiment, an alignment hole is provided through the housing. In an embodiment, an alignment post extending out from the first surface of the housing is also provided.