Memory Component Testing with Distributed Fault-Tolerant Sockets

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional memory component testing is time-consuming and inefficient due to the need for multiple tests at various temperatures and the inability to perform multiple tests simultaneously, as existing testing chambers can only apply a single temperature condition at a time and can only perform one test process.

Innovation Solution

A distributed test platform with multiple test resources, including test sockets with temperature control components, allows for simultaneous testing of memory components at different temperatures and locations, enabling fault-tolerant testing by reallocating resources if a test socket fails, ensuring that the test can be completed without restarting the entire process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple tests are performed at different temperatures using a single testing chamber, then comprehensive testing coverage is achieved, but the testing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting coverageVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the testing system into multiple independent testing chambers, each capable of operating at different temperatures simultaneously. This segmentation allows parallel execution of multiple tests at different temperature conditions, thereby maintaining comprehensive testing coverage while significantly reducing total testing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-dimensional sequential testing approach (one temperature at a time) to a multi-dimensional parallel testing approach by introducing the dimension of spatial distribution across multiple chambers. Each chamber operates independently at its own temperature, enabling simultaneous tests across multiple temperature points without sequential delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If a single testing chamber is used to perform multiple tests, then resource utilization is improved, but the ability to perform simultaneous tests at different temperatures is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidsimultaneous multi-temperature capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The testing system is segmented into multiple independent chambers, each functioning as an autonomous testing unit. This segmentation enables each chamber to be independently configured for specific temperature conditions and test types, allowing simultaneous execution of multiple tests with optimized resource utilization in each chamber.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each testing chamber is designed as a universal unit capable of performing multiple test functions at different temperature conditions. The chambers can be independently configured and controlled to handle various test scenarios, providing both specialized temperature control and versatile testing capabilities across the distributed system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If the entire test process is restarted due to a test socket failure, then test accuracy is maintained, but time efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest accuracyVSAvoidtime efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements fault tolerance mechanisms that prepare backup test sockets and alternative testing paths in advance. When a test socket fails, the system has pre-configured replacements ready, allowing seamless substitution without requiring complete test process restart. This prior cushioning against failures maintains test integrity while preventing time loss from full restarts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors test socket status and provides real-time feedback on test progress and component health. Upon detecting a socket failure, the feedback mechanism triggers automatic fault isolation and redirection of affected tests to alternative sockets, maintaining overall test accuracy while minimizing disruption and time loss through dynamic adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 approach significantly reduces the time required for memory component testing, allows for more efficient use of resources, and ensures that the testing process is not interrupted by failures, enabling more tests to be performed without repeating failed portions.

Implementation Method 1

each test resource includes a temperature control component that applies a particular temperature condition to the memory component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature control: Heating

Data Source

PatentUS11043269B2Performing a test of memory components with fault tolerance
Publication Date: 2021.06.22 MICRON TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US11043269B2 patent drawing
  • US11043269B2 patent drawing
  • US11043269B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Test resources of a test platform that are performing a test of memory components are determined. An indication that a particular test resource of the test resources of the test platform has failed can be received. The particular test resource is failed while performing a portion of the test of memory components. A remaining portion of the test of memory components can be performed based on the indication that the particular test resource of the test platform has failed.