Multi-Level Tester Layout for Higher Throughput in Less Floor Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tester systems occupy excessive floor space and have limited throughput and capacity, leading to increased costs and delays in identifying reliable and non-reliable UUTs.
Innovation Solution
A multiple transport level tester system with multiple tiers and transfer devices that reduce floor space usage by 30-70% while increasing throughput and capacity, incorporating environmental conditioning chambers and test stations across different levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tester systems are configured in a linear dimension in a single level, then the components can be easily arranged and accessed, but the floor space taken by the system becomes excessively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-level linear configuration to a multi-level vertical arrangement. Test stations, environmental chambers, and transfer devices are distributed across multiple heights, utilizing the vertical dimension to reduce floor space while maintaining operational accessibility through elevated walkways and transfer mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If tester systems use a single level parallel to the floor, then the structure is simple, but the throughput and capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging test stations and environmental chambers across multiple vertical levels, the system increases throughput and capacity without proportionally increasing structural complexity. The vertical stacking allows multiple testing operations to occur simultaneously at different heights, improving productivity while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular transfer devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-level configuration enables continuous testing operations where units under test can be moved between levels and stations without interruption. Transfer devices facilitate seamless transitions between heights, ensuring that testing capacity is fully utilized and throughput is maximized by keeping all test stations operational simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the floor space occupied by tester systems is large, then all components can be accommodated in a single level, but the cost and delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system accommodates all necessary components across multiple vertical levels rather than requiring a large single-level footprint. This vertical arrangement reduces the time units under test spend in transit and waiting areas, accelerating the identification process while still providing adequate space for all test stations and environmental chambers.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple transport level tester system according to some embodiments includes an entry point, an exit point, a first transport level having a first level, and at least one additional transport levels, wherein the first level is different than the at least one additional levels. The multiple transport level tester system further includes at least one environmental conditioning chamber configured to perform an environmental conditioning on units under test; and at least one test station configured to perform at least one test on the units under test.