PCB Testing Fixture Multiplexer Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printed circuit board (PCB) testing systems are inefficient, as they require manual operation, can only test one PCB at a time, and require new software code for each different PCB specification, leading to human error and increased testing time.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a PCB testing fixture, a battery tester, a data acquisition unit with a multiplexer, a software platform, and remote devices, which allows simultaneous testing of multiple PCBs, adapts to different specifications, and provides automated data analysis and alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used for PCB testing, then the system is simple to operate, but testing efficiency is low and human error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic PCB testing through automated test fixtures, multiplexers, and control units that perform testing operations without manual intervention. The automated system self-manages the testing process, reducing human error and increasing efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electrical and electronic systems. Test fixtures with automated contact elements, electronic multiplexers, and computer-controlled test sequences substitute for manual testing methods, significantly improving productivity while the modular design keeps system complexity manageable.
2Productivity
If one PCB is tested at a time, then the testing process is simple, but testing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple PCB testing capabilities into a single integrated test fixture. Multiple test contact elements, multiplexers, and control units are merged into one system that can simultaneously or sequentially test multiple PCBs, increasing testing speed while the integrated design manages complexity through unified architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The test fixture is designed with universal multi-functionality to handle different PCB types and testing requirements. The same fixture can test multiple PCBs with varying specifications through reconfigurable contact elements and programmable control, improving productivity while avoiding the need for multiple specialized fixtures.
3Measurement precision
If new software code is written for each PCB specification, then testing accuracy is high, but development time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The software is designed to be dynamic and adaptive rather than static. The control unit can programmatically adjust testing parameters, contact element configurations, and test sequences based on different PCB specifications. This dynamic software maintains high testing accuracy across various PCB types while reducing complexity through flexible reconfiguration instead of writing new code for each specification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains testing accuracy by dynamically changing software parameters and control settings based on PCB specifications. Rather than writing new software code for each PCB type, the existing software adapts by modifying test parameters, contact element activation patterns, and measurement thresholds, thereby maintaining precision while reducing software complexity and development time.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a system for testing printed circuit boards. The system is configured to test the simultaneously test a multiplicity of printed circuit boards. The system examines the electrical characteristics of a printed circuit board and is operable to identify if a printed circuit board meets a desired characteristic.