Flexible PCB Socket Calibration via Waveguide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) systems face significant signal loss at high frequencies due to elongated signal paths, and existing methods for socket power calibration are costly, complex, and impractical for use on production test floors, especially requiring expensive and specialized equipment like network analyzers.
Innovation Solution
A socket calibration device using a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) with traces that connect to socket ports and patch antennas, interfacing with a power sensor via a waveguide, allowing for differential signaling and flexible mounting orientations, replacing the need for expensive bench equipment like network analyzers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional PCBs with microstrip transmission lines are used to convey test signals, then the signal path can be extended to reach the tester diagnostic system, but signal loss increases substantially at high frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a waveguide as an intermediary component between the DUT and tester to replace conventional microstrip transmission lines. The waveguide efficiently transmits millimeter wave signals with minimal loss, serving as a superior mediator for high-frequency signal conveyance compared to traditional PCB traces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional electrical transmission system (microstrip lines on PCB) with a waveguide system that operates on different electromagnetic principles. This substitution enables efficient signal transmission at millimeter frequencies where microstrip lines suffer from excessive loss.
2Measurement precision
If conventional sandwich style socket calibration devices with elastomer layers between PCB boards are used, then socket electrical characteristics can be measured, but the equipment becomes prohibitively expensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex elastomer layer sandwich structure from the calibration device. By removing this unnecessary intermediate layer, the design achieves direct contact between the socket and PCB, dramatically simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the thick elastomer layer with a thin flexible PCB that provides the necessary electrical connection and mechanical flexibility. This thin film approach maintains the essential function of connecting the socket to the PCB while reducing complexity and cost.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional rigid PCBs are used in calibration devices, then structural stability is maintained, but mounting orientation flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, rigid PCB structure into a dynamic, flexible PCB that can adapt to different mounting orientations. The flexible PCB maintains electrical connectivity and structural integrity while enabling the device to be mounted in various orientations, thereby increasing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible PCB instead of a rigid one, allowing the calibration device to be mounted in different orientations. The flexible nature of the PCB enables it to bend and conform to various mounting positions while maintaining electrical connections and structural stability.
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 provides a cost-effective, versatile, and easier-to-use method for socket power calibration, enabling accurate measurements and flexible deployment on high-volume manufacturing test floors with reduced signal loss and increased orientation options.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible printed circuit board with traces that connect to socket ports and patch antennas
Implementation Method 2
interfacing with a power sensor via a waveguide
Implementation Method 3
allowing for differential signaling and flexible mounting orientations, replacing the need for expensive bench equipment like network analyzers
Data Source
AI summary
A structure for performing socket power calibration comprises a plurality of socket ports on a load board electrically coupled to a plurality of traces on a first end of a flexible printed circuit board, wherein the plurality of traces are configured to allow traversal of an electrical signal from the plurality of socket ports to a waveguide. The structure further comprises the plurality of traces, wherein the traces are operable to terminate on a second end of the flexible printed circuit board into a plurality of patch antennas, wherein the plurality of patch antennas is adapted to radiate the electrical signal into the waveguide. Finally, the structure also comprises a power sensor electrically coupled to the waveguide, wherein the waveguide is configured to communicate the electrical signal from the waveguide to the power sensor.