Multi-site Semiconductor Test Frame Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for testing singulated semiconductor devices are inefficient, as they typically involve single-site testing, which is time-consuming and costly, and do not optimize the placement and testing configuration to minimize costs or enhance probe utilization.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for multi-site placement of singulated semiconductor devices, which determines an optimal test configuration using a data processing device to arrange devices in a test frame, optimizing spacing and probe configuration to minimize costs and enhance testing efficiency, allowing for simultaneous electrical testing of multiple devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If single-site testing is used for singulated semiconductor devices, then testing can be performed with simple equipment, but testing time and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting equipment complexityVSAvoidtesting efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple test sites into a single test frame, allowing multiple semiconductor devices to be tested simultaneously. The test frame includes multiple contact pads arranged in a grid pattern that can electrically connect to multiple devices at once, merging several single-site testing operations into one parallel multi-site testing operation, thereby improving productivity without requiring proportionally more complex equipment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from single-site (one-dimensional) testing to multi-site (two-dimensional) testing by arranging contact pads in a grid pattern across the test frame. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous testing of multiple devices across the frame, transforming the testing approach from sequential to parallel operation and significantly improving testing efficiency

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

2Productivity

If multi-site testing is implemented, then testing efficiency improves, but placement and configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting efficiencyVSAvoidplacement configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the test frame into multiple independent contact pads arranged in a systematic grid pattern, where each pad can independently contact a semiconductor device. This segmentation allows for standardized, repeatable placement configurations that reduce complexity by providing a modular approach to multi-site testing setup

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs automated parameter optimization to determine the optimal arrangement of contact pads and semiconductor devices on the test frame. By using data processing to calculate and adjust parameters such as pad spacing, device positioning, and contact alignment, the system automatically resolves placement complexity and generates optimized configurations that maximize testing efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If optimal test configuration is determined through data processing, then testing cost is minimized, but computational time and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting cost efficiencyVSAvoidconfiguration determination time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary computational analysis to determine the optimal test configuration before actual semiconductor device testing begins. By pre-calculating the optimal arrangement of contact pads and devices, and pre-determining the most cost-effective testing parameters, the system minimizes real-time computational requirements and reduces overall testing time and cost

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements an iterative optimization process where initial test configurations are evaluated based on cost and efficiency metrics, and adjustments are made based on feedback from previous testing cycles. This feedback mechanism allows the system to converge on optimal configurations through repeated refinement, balancing computational effort with cost minimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10126351B2Systems and methods for placement of singulated semiconductor devices for multi-site testing
Publication Date: 2018.11.13 CIRRUS LOGIC INC
  • US10126351B2 patent drawing
  • US10126351B2 patent drawing
  • US10126351B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for multi-site placement of singulated semiconductor devices are presented. The systems and methods for multi-site placement may facilitate multi-site testing of the singulated semiconductor devices. A method may include determining a quantity of singulated semiconductor devices to be arranged in a test configuration. The method may also include determining, using a data processing device, a test configuration in response to the quantity. In further embodiments, the method may include placing the singulated semiconductor devices in a test frame according to the test configuration.