IC Tester Socket Anti-Rotation Link for Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sockets for testing integrated circuits face issues with signal integrity due to deformation of cylindrical elastomers, which leads to loss of resiliency and unreliable contact over multiple uses.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece connector assembly with a mount and link system that pivots into engagement without deformation, using an elongate resilient elastomer with a square profile and a longitudinal hole for enhanced force distribution and compliance, ensuring reliable contact without premature wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cylindrical elastomer is used to provide resilient biasing of connectors, then reliable contact is achieved, but the elastomer wears quickly and deforms after multiple uses, reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate pieces: a rigid link member and a resilient elastomer element. The rigid link member provides structural support and maintains geometric stability, while the elastomer element provides only the necessary resilient biasing force. This segmentation prevents the entire connector from deforming, extending service life while maintaining contact reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the entire connector resilient (as in the cylindrical elastomer design), the invention inverts the approach by making the connector rigid and using a separate, small elastomer element for biasing. This prevents the connector body from deforming and wearing, while still achieving reliable contact through the elastomer's resilient force.
2Reliability
If a cylindrical elastomer is used for resilient biasing, then connection reliability is improved, but the elastomer twists and loses resiliency over time
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into a stable rigid link member and a separate elastomer biasing element. The rigid link member maintains structural stability and does not twist, while the elastomer element is positioned and constrained to provide resilient force without undergoing twisting deformations that would compromise its structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomer element is specifically designed and positioned to provide resilient biasing only where needed, while the rigid link member maintains overall structural stability. The elastomer is constrained within a cavity and engages with specific features (rounded corner, longitudinal hole) that prevent twisting while allowing the necessary compression for resilient force.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a two-piece connector assembly is used to avoid deformation, then durability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into two functional pieces: a rigid link member for structural support and a separate elastomer element for resilient biasing. This segmentation improves durability by preventing deformation of the connector body, while the simplicity of the two-piece design minimizes the increase in complexity compared to a monolithic resilient connector.
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 maintains signal integrity by providing a reliable and durable electrical connection between the IC and the load board, extending the life of the elastomer and ensuring consistent contact without deformation, thus addressing the limitations of prior art sockets.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate resilient elastomer positioned behind the link member to push the link member into engagement with the contact pad
Implementation Method 2
a two piece linkage that cooperates to form an electrical connection... The two pieces of the contact cooperate together to form a reliable electrical connection
Data Source
AI summary
A socket for testing or connecting an integrated circuit is disclosed having a platform for receiving the integrated circuit and adapted to overlay a piece of test equipment or other board, the platform formed with an array of slots each locating a portion of a two-piece connector assembly. When the integrated circuit is seated on the platform, the two piece connector assemblies pivot so as to make contact between a contact pad on the IC and the board for establishing or evaluating signal transmission by the IC. The platform houses a resilient elongate elastomer that biases the connector assembly out of the platform to make contact with the board or test equipment. When the IC is placed on the platform, the bias of the resilient tubular member is overcome and an electrical connection is established across the connector assembly.