IC Handler Contact Head with Removable Power Supply Ports
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional IC handlers require significant reconfiguration and large-scale work to change the array of clamping sections when the array of DUTs changes, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The IC handler features a movable arm with a detachable contact head and a power supply system, allowing for easy replacement of contact heads with different arrays of operating parts, eliminating the need for extensive reconfiguration by connecting the new contact head to the existing power supply ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the array of clamping sections is changed to match a new array of DUTs, then the IC handler can accommodate different IC device configurations, but large-scale work of altering the contact head is required
Solution Approach 1:
The contact head is divided into multiple independent clamping sections that can be individually replaced. Each clamping section is a separate module with its own support part, allowing selective replacement without affecting other sections. This segmentation enables the array configuration to be changed by swapping individual sections rather than redesigning the entire contact head.
Solution Approach 2:
The support part is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different arrays of clamping sections. The support part includes multiple connection ports that can connect to supply ports in various configurations, allowing the same support part to serve multiple array arrangements. This universality enables the contact head to adapt to different IC device arrays without requiring custom-designed contact heads for each configuration.
2Ease of operation
If individual clamping sections are made interchangeable, then changing the array becomes easier, but piping and wiring must be reinstalled for each new array
Solution Approach 1:
The support part integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support for clamping sections, incorporates connection ports for power supply, and includes supply paths for fluid delivery. By merging the support structure, connection interfaces, and fluid supply system into one integrated unit, the patent eliminates the need to separately reconnect piping and wiring when changing clamping sections. The integrated support part is replaced as a complete assembly, carrying all necessary connections with it.
Solution Approach 2:
The support part is pre-configured with multiple connection ports and supply paths before being attached to the contact head. These connection ports are positioned and configured in advance to accommodate different array configurations. When a new array is needed, the appropriate support part with pre-configured connections is selected and attached, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site piping and wiring installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the contact head is redesigned for each new array of DUTs, then the IC handler can precisely match different device configurations, but the reconfiguration process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The contact head is designed with dynamic reconfigurability through the interchangeable clamping sections and replaceable support parts. Instead of a fixed, static structure, the system allows dynamic reconfiguration by attaching or detaching support parts with different array configurations. This dynamic design enables rapid adaptation to different IC device arrays without requiring time-consuming redesign and manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The array configuration is changed by swapping support parts with different geometric arrangements of connection ports and clamping sections. The key parameter that changes is the spatial arrangement of components on the support part, not the fundamental design of the entire contact head. This parameter-based approach allows standardization of the support part design while accommodating variations in array configurations through simple geometric modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
An IC handler (4) of the present invention is provided with: a contact head (7), which holds a plurality of IC devices, and which presses the IC devices to a plurality of sockets (3); and a movable arm (6) that moves the contact head (7). The movable arm (6) has power supply ports (VO, HO) that are connected to supply sources (VS, HS) of power for generating operations of the contact head (7), and the contact head (7) has a plurality of operating sections (70) that operate with the power, and a supporting section (71), which supports the operating sections (70), and which is removably attached to the movable arm (6). The supporting section (71) of the contact head (7) has: connecting ports (VC, HC) that are removably connected to the supply ports (VO, HO); and supply paths (71a, 71d) for supplying the power to the operating sections (70) from the connecting ports (VC, HC) connected to the supply ports (VO, HO).