Pitch Adjuster Insert Module for HBM Test Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional test handlers face difficulties in testing high bandwidth memory (HBM) devices with fine-pitch contact portions due to the complexity and precision required for alignment and connection.

Innovation Solution

An insert module for a test tray is designed with a pitch adjuster that includes first and second pins arranged at different pitches, allowing for electrical connection at a wider second pitch, and a holder to securely position the electronic device during testing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional test handlers are used to test HBM devices with fine-pitch contact portions, then the testing can be performed, but the alignment precision requirement becomes excessively high and the complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidtest handler complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an insert module as an intermediary component between the test handler and the HBM device. This insert module includes a pitch adjuster that acts as a mediator to bridge the gap between the coarse pitch of the test handler and the fine pitch of the HBM contact portions, thereby reducing alignment precision requirements and simplifying the overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The pitch adjuster changes the pitch parameter from the coarse pitch of the test handler to the fine pitch required for HBM contact portions. By adjusting the pitch parameter through the insert module's structural design, the system accommodates different pitch requirements without increasing overall complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If fine-pitch contact for testing HBM is implemented, then testing accuracy is improved, but the difficulty of connection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting accuracyVSAvoidconnection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The insert module serves as an intermediary that facilitates the connection between the test handler and HBM device. The pitch adjuster within the insert module provides a transition zone that makes the fine-pitch connection easier to achieve by reducing the sensitivity to misalignment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The insert module is pre-configured with the pitch adjuster and holder structure before the HBM device is installed. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the device is placed, the alignment is automatically adjusted to the correct fine pitch, simplifying the connection process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If conventional testing methods are used for HBM, then the test process is simple, but the testing speed and efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting speedVSAvoidtest structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insert module is designed as a universal component that can accommodate HBM devices with fine-pitch contact portions while integrating multiple functions: mechanical support through the holder, pitch adjustment through the pitch adjuster, and electrical connection. This multi-functionality improves testing efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4567814A1Insert module for test hander and test tray comprising the same
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 ATECO INC
  • EP4567814A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4567814A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4567814A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed is an insert module for test tray, including: a pitch adjuster configured to seat the electronic device thereon, and including a first side electrically connected to connection pins of the electronic device, and a second side provided with electrical contact means at a second pitch wider than a first pitch of the connection pins; and a holder configured to hold the seated electronic device. According to the disclosure, the insert module for test tray and the test tray including the same are capable of the accurate contact corresponding to the fine pitch of the electronic device, and maintain the precise contact during the test, thereby improving the accuracy of the test.