Movable DUT Interface for Flexible Semiconductor Test
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current semiconductor test systems face inefficiencies in testing different devices-under-test (DUTs) due to fixed interface layouts, which restrict flexibility and increase costs and time in adapting to various DUT boards.
Innovation Solution
The automated test equipment employs a DUT interface with spring-loaded pins that can vary in distance and position, allowing for a flexible design that adapts to different DUT boards without requiring changes to the test head or interface, using mechanisms like linear rails and parallelogram linkages for precise movement and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed interface layout is used for connecting DUT boards to the test head, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to different DUT boards is limited and requires costly modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable DUT interface that can dynamically adjust its position relative to the test head along the x-axis. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same interface to adapt to different DUT board layouts without requiring physical modifications, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable DUT interface serves multiple functions: it can connect to different DUT board types with varying connector positions, maintain stable electrical contact through spring-loaded pins, and adjust to different testing requirements. This multi-functionality enables a single interface design to handle diverse DUT configurations, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the DUT interface position is fixed relative to the test head, then the manufacturing precision requirements are simplified, but the ability to accommodate various DUT board configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed mechanical alignment with a controllable positioning mechanism that can adjust the DUT interface position programmatically. This substitution allows for flexible adaptation to different DUT configurations while maintaining precise alignment through controlled movement rather than relying solely on manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameter of the DUT interface relative to the test head based on the specific DUT configuration being tested. By dynamically adjusting this parameter, the system can accommodate various DUT board layouts while maintaining the necessary alignment precision for reliable electrical contact.
3Reliability
If spring-loaded pins are used for electrical contact, then the reliability of electrical connection is improved through automatic contact pressure, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded pins automatically adjust their contact pressure with the DUT board connectors through their inherent spring mechanism. This self-regulating feature ensures reliable electrical contact without requiring external control systems or additional components, thereby improving reliability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded pins provide beforehand cushioning by maintaining constant contact pressure with the DUT board connectors. This pre-established mechanical pressure ensures reliable electrical connection even when there are minor variations in positioning or connector alignment, thereby improving contact reliability without adding complex control mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between blocks of spring-loaded pins is fixed, then the manufacturing and assembly process is simplified, but the adaptability to different DUT board layouts is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distance between blocks of spring-loaded pins is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. This allows the DUT interface to adapt to different DUT board layouts by repositioning the pin blocks along the x-axis, thereby improving layout adaptability while maintaining relatively simple assembly through the use of standardized movable 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
This solution enhances flexibility and efficiency in testing by allowing the DUT interface to accommodate various DUT boards, reducing adaptation costs and time, while maintaining precise electrical contact, and optimizing signal performance.
Implementation Method 1
The DUT interface comprises a plurality of blocks of spring-loaded pins
Implementation Method 2
The movable DUT interface is configured for establishing an electronic signal path between the test head and a DUT board
Data Source
AI summary
An automated test equipment for testing one or more DUTs comprises a test head and a DUT interface. The DUT interface comprises a plurality of blocks of spring-loaded pins, for example groups or fields of spring-loaded pins. For example, the DUT interface is configured for establishing an electronic signal path between the test head and a DUT board or load board, which holds the DUT or which provides a connection to the DUT. The automated test equipment is configured to allow for a variation of a distance between at least two blocks of spring-loaded pins.