Finger Tester Optical Detection for PCB Collision Avoidance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing finger testers for non-componented printed circuit boards face challenges in detecting closely spaced test points without collision risks and are often costly and inefficient due to the need for additional cameras and complex drive mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optical detection devices with light guide units arranged at different heights and planes, allowing vertical viewing and reducing the risk of collisions, with the same objective lenses used across all devices to minimize costs and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional cameras and complex drive mechanisms are used to detect closely spaced test points, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the detection function into a single camera that captures images of multiple test points simultaneously. Instead of using separate cameras for each test point, one camera is used to detect all test points in a field of view, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to detect closely spaced test points through image processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a visual copy of the test points on a circuit board. The camera captures an optical image that serves as a representation of the physical test points, allowing for precise detection and measurement without requiring physical contact or complex mechanical positioning mechanisms
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are positioned close together to detect closely spaced test points, then measurement precision is improved, but the risk of collision between test fingers and cameras increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system where light carries information from the test points to the camera. Instead of having test fingers physically contact each test point with closely positioned cameras, the optical field serves as an intermediary that transfers spatial information without requiring physical proximity between test fingers and camera components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical positioning and contact system with an optical detection system. Instead of relying on precise mechanical positioning of multiple cameras close to test fingers, the system uses optical imaging to detect test point positions, thereby eliminating the collision risk associated with closely positioned mechanical components
3Measurement precision
If different objective lenses are used for detection devices at different heights, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single objective lens that serves multiple functions by capturing images of test points at different heights or positions within a single field of view. The optical system is designed to accommodate variations in test point positioning without requiring different lenses, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection accuracy through optical design and image processing
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
This solution enables reliable, rapid, and cost-effective testing of non-componented printed circuit boards by preventing collisions and using a single camera for multiple test fingers, resulting in improved image quality and reduced operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an optical detection device (20) with a light guide unit (23)
Data Source
AI summary
A finger tester for testing non-componented printed circuit boards uses two or more test fingers, each having a test probe. A detection device is provided above each test probe for optical detection of the position above the circuit board of at least one contact tip of the test probe. The detection devices of the test fingers are each arranged in different vertically spaced planes, so that areas of the detection devices located above the test fingers are positioned above one another, aligned vertically to prevent contact during testing.