Independent Dual-Contact Pin Structure for Reliable IC Socket Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional probe type contact pins for IC packages have reliability issues due to their internal contact system, which requires improvement for better contact with limited space on IC packages.
Innovation Solution
A contact pin with laterally stacked, independently movable electrically conductive contacts that include a compression interlock mechanism and an expansion interlock mechanism, along with a casing to enhance handleability and prevent excessive compression, improving contact reliability and elasticity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a probe type contact pin with internal contact system is used, then the contact pin can be mounted on IC packages with limited space, but the contact reliability deteriorates due to the complex three-or-more-component structure
Solution Approach 1:
The contact pin is divided into multiple independent contacts (first contact and second contact) that can move independently of each other. Each contact has its own elastic deformation part, allowing them to compensate for mutual interference and maintain reliable contact with the E-Pad despite limited mounting space.
Solution Approach 2:
The contacts are designed with elastic deformation parts that allow dynamic movement and independent displacement. This dynamic capability enables the contacts to adapt to variations in the E-Pad position and maintain reliable electrical connection, resolving the reliability issue caused by the rigid internal contact system.
2Reliability
If multiple independent contacts are laterally stacked, then the contact reliability improves through multiple contact points and distortion compensation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple contacts are laterally stacked and combined into a single integrated contact pin structure. The first contact and second contact are arranged side-by-side sharing a common base, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining multiple independent contact points for improved reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The laterally stacked contacts serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide multiple contact points for redundant electrical connection, compensate for E-Pad distortion through independent movement, and maintain a compact footprint suitable for limited mounting space on IC packages.
3Reliability
If the elastic deformation part is made elastically expandable and compressible, then the contact can compensate for distortion and maintain elasticity, but the contact may become stuck due to excessive compression
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic deformation part is designed with predetermined elastic limits and cushioning characteristics that prevent excessive compression. The material and geometric design incorporate built-in protection against over-compression, allowing the contact to maintain elasticity and compensate for distortion without becoming stuck.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances contact reliability by providing multiple contact points, compensating for distortion, and maintaining desired elasticity, while simplifying structure and reducing costs through press machining.
Implementation Method 1
each of the contacts extending from a base end to a tip and having an elastic deformation part formed between the base end and the tip, and the elastic deformation part being elastically expandable and compressible in an extending direction
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a contact pin and a socket for inspection that can improve contact reliability to an IC package. An embodiment includes: an electrically conductive electrical contact 110 extending from a base end to a tip and having an elastic deformation part 112 elastically expandable and compressible in the extending direction formed between the base end and the tip; and an electrically conductive thermal contact 120 extending from a base end to a tip and having an elastic deformation part 122 elastically expandable and compressible in the extending direction formed between the base end and the tip, and the electrical contact 110 and the thermal contact 120 are laterally stacked adjacent to each other and are movable independently of each other.