Hook-Shaped Plunger Connection Structural Member for Thermal Expansion Mismatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection structural members face challenges in reliably connecting structural members with different coefficients of thermal expansion and mechanical forces, leading to difficulties in both mechanical and electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
A connection structural member comprising a barrel with a first and second hole, a first plunger with a hook shape, a second plunger, and an elastic connection member within the barrel to connect the plungers, ensuring reliable mechanical and electrical connections by using a hook-type and pin-type configuration with a spring-like elastic connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional connection structural member is used to connect structural members with different coefficients of thermal expansion, then the connection may fail under thermal stress, but the patent introduces an elastic connection member with hook-shaped plungers to resolve this issue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the connection member by introducing an elastic element that can deform under thermal stress. The hook-shaped plunger design allows the connection member to accommodate dimensional changes due to different thermal expansion coefficients while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structural member transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic flexible connection. The elastic connection member can flex and deform to accommodate relative movement between structural members caused by thermal expansion differences, while the hook-shaped plungers maintain continuous contact and electrical connection.
2Strength
If structural members are subjected to mechanical force, then conventional rigid connections may experience stress concentration and failure, but the patent uses an elastic connection member to distribute and absorb these forces
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic connection member acts as a pre-configured cushioning element that can absorb and dissipate mechanical forces before they reach critical levels. The elastic deformation capability allows the connection to withstand shock loads and mechanical stresses without permanent damage or failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the elastic properties of the connection member to change its mechanical response characteristics. Under normal conditions, the elastic member provides flexible accommodation, while under excessive force, it can deform significantly to prevent catastrophic failure, effectively changing the stress distribution parameters.
3Reliability
If the connection member must accommodate both mechanical and electrical connection requirements, then simple rigid structures fail, but the patent integrates an elastic mechanism that maintains both functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structural member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical support, electrical conduction, and thermal expansion accommodation. The hook-shaped plunger with elastic connection achieves all three functions through a single integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and electrical connection components.
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 reliable mechanical and electrical connections with reduced or eliminated eccentricity, ensuring consistent contact between structural members and enabling efficient signal transmission in probe card assemblies and wafer testing apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic connection member disposed within the barrel to connect the first plunger and the second plunger
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising: a barrel having an first hole and a second hole opposite to the first hole; a first plunger disposed in the first hole and including a hook shape; a second plunger disposed in the second hole; and an elastic connection member disposed within the barrel to connect the first plunger and the second plunger.