Parallel Conveyor Substrate Testing Handler
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing substrate manufacturing methods and apparatuses face challenges in efficiently testing and processing printed circuit boards (PCBs) with integrated semiconductor devices, particularly in handling and testing high-capacity storage devices like solid-state drives (SSDs) that require precise handling and testing of multiple unit substrates with varying dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A substrate manufacturing apparatus and method that includes a test handler module with a conveyor unit, handler unit, and transfer unit, featuring a feed conveyor and discharge conveyor system, a loader module, and a handler unit with a test chamber for performing electrical tests and temperature control, allowing for the sequential processing and testing of substrates with different lengths and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional single-line conveyor system is used for substrate testing, then the device structure is simple, but the processing efficiency and productivity are low due to sequential handling of substrates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-line sequential conveyor system to a multi-line parallel conveyor system. The first conveyor and second conveyor operate simultaneously in parallel, allowing multiple substrates to be processed at the same time. This dimensional expansion from 1D sequential to 2D parallel processing significantly improves productivity while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is segmented into independent first and second conveyors, each capable of transporting substrates separately. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple conveyor lines, enabling simultaneous processing of multiple substrates. The modular segmented structure improves productivity without creating an overly complex monolithic system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If substrates with varying dimensions are processed using a fixed handling system, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different substrate configurations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The handler unit incorporates movable and adjustable components that can dynamically adapt to different substrate dimensions. The system transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure capable of accommodating various substrate sizes and configurations. This dynamic adaptability allows the same handling system to process diverse substrates without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The handler unit is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can handle different types of substrates with varying dimensions. Rather than having separate specialized handlers for each substrate type, a single universal handler performs multiple functions across different substrate configurations, improving adaptability while avoiding the complexity of multiple dedicated systems.
3Speed
If rapid substrate transfer between conveyor units is implemented, then the processing speed is improved, but the risk of substrate damage or misalignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handler unit serves as an intermediary between the first conveyor and second conveyor during substrate transfer. Rather than direct high-speed transfer between conveyors, the handler unit mediates the transfer process, providing controlled pickup and placement operations. This intermediary mechanism enables rapid overall processing while maintaining substrate integrity and proper alignment through controlled transfer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The handler unit performs preliminary positioning and alignment actions before final substrate placement on the second conveyor. By preparing the substrate in advance with proper orientation and position, the system achieves rapid transfer speeds without compromising reliability. The preliminary actions ensure that substrates are correctly positioned before the critical transfer moment, preventing damage and misalignment.
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
Enables efficient testing and processing of substrates with varying dimensions, ensuring proper assembly and separation of unit substrates, and marking of tested components, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency and quality of electronic components like SSDs.
Implementation Method 1
a feed lift member to lift the substrate from the feed conveyor through the winding portion of the feed conveyor
Implementation Method 2
a temperature controller to control the temperature of a gas in the circulation space
Data Source
AI summary
A substrate manufacturing apparatus includes a test apparatus including a test handler module for performing a test process on a substrate. The test handler module may include a conveyor unit to transfer a substrate, a handler unit for performing a test process on the substrate, and a transfer unit for transferring the substrate between the conveyor unit and the handler unit. The conveyor unit may include a feed conveyor and a discharge conveyor spaced apart from the feed conveyor.