LCD Test Device Edge Clamping for Probe Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LCD test devices face issues with achieving exact electrical connections between the LCD panel and the probe unit, leading to misalignment and incorrect defect identification, particularly with larger panels, resulting in reduced yield and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a clamping unit on the work table that securely fixes the LCD panel's edge, preventing sagging and ensuring a stable, flat connection between the panel and the probe unit, combined with the use of a back light unit and an image device for precise defect identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the LCD panel is mounted on the work table with an inner open area, then the panel can be easily positioned, but the middle portion of the panel sags due to self-loading causing misalignment with the probe unit
Solution Approach 1:
The work table is divided into two functional zones: the inner open area for easy panel positioning and the outer peripheral area with vacuum suction ports for securing the panel edges. This segmentation allows the panel to be easily positioned while preventing sagging through edge clamping.
Solution Approach 2:
A vacuum suction system acts as an intermediary between the work table and the LCD panel. The vacuum suction ports create a suction force that clamps the panel edges to the work table, preventing sagging while maintaining easy positioning capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If vacuum suction is used to fix the LCD panel, then the panel is secured to the work table, but the middle portion sags due to self-loading causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum suction force is applied locally at the edges of the panel rather than uniformly across the entire surface. This localized clamping at the peripheral area prevents sagging while maintaining stability, as the edges are secured while the center remains free from excessive force.
3Device complexity
If the LCD panel is not fully connected to the probe unit, then the test device structure remains simple, but defect identification becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The work table is pre-configured with vacuum suction ports and clamping structures before the panel is positioned. This preliminary setup ensures that the panel will be securely clamped at the edges, preventing sagging and ensuring accurate electrical connection with the probe unit during testing.
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 accurate electrical connection and defect identification, improving test reliability, reducing yield loss, and avoiding unnecessary costs associated with misidentification, while also eliminating the need for expensive laser trimming processes.
Implementation Method 1
the work table 4 includes a polarizer 4a and a back light unit 4b. A moving stage 5 is at the rear of the work table 4 to align the work table 4 with the probe unit 3 and connect the work table 4 with the probe unit 3.
Data Source
AI summary
An LCD test device and a test process thereof are disclosed, in which a defect of an LCD panel is exactly identified through exact electrical connection between an LCD panel and a probe unit. The LCD test device includes a work table on which an LCD panel is mounted, a clamping unit on the work table, clamping a top surface of an edge of the LCD panel mounted on the work table, a probe unit electrically connected with a pad of the LCD panel fixed to the work table by the clamping unit, and a back light unit supplying light to the LCD panel fixed to the work table. Accordingly, since the defect of the LCD panel can be tested exactly, reliability of the test is improved, and it is possible to prevent yield and the cost from being reduced in advance.