Probing Device Reinforcing Plate Ceramic Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional probing devices face deformation issues due to applied forces during wafer-level testing, leading to reduced flatness and shorter service life of space transformers and probes, exacerbated by thinner space transformers and inadequate support from protective gels.
Innovation Solution
A probing device with a reinforcing plate made of machinable ceramic, featuring protrusions and receiving spaces for solder balls, which supports the space transformer and maintains its flatness by distributing force effectively, preventing deformation and extending the service life of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the space transformer is made thinner to reduce cost, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the space transformer deforms more seriously under force F1
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining the space transformer with a reinforcing plate made of different material (e.g., ceramic, metal, or high-strength polymer). This composite construction allows the space transformer to remain thin for cost efficiency while the reinforcing plate provides the necessary mechanical strength and deformation resistance under force F1.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the support function by separating the space transformer from the reinforcing structure. The space transformer handles electrical signal transmission while the reinforcing plate handles mechanical support, allowing each component to be optimized independently for its specific function.
2Reliability
If a bigger force is applied to enable practical contact, then contact reliability is improved, but the space transformer deforms more and probes wear faster
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing plate acts as an intermediary between the probes and the space transformer. It provides a stable, deformation-resistant surface for probe contact, ensuring reliable electrical connection without transmitting excessive force to the space transformer, thereby preventing deformation and reducing probe wear.
3Strength
If protecting gel is used to support the space transformer, then structural support is provided, but gaps remain between the space transformer and protecting gel
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the protecting gel with a rigid reinforcing plate that provides stable, permanent support. The reinforcing plate maintains consistent contact with the space transformer without the gaps and deformation issues associated with gel, providing long-term structural stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A probing device includes a circuit board, a reinforcing plate, at least one space transformer and at least one probe assembly. The reinforcing plate is disposed on the circuit board, and the reinforcing plate has a plurality of inner conductive wires electrically connecting to those of the circuit board. The reinforcing plate defines a plurality of receiving space therein. The space transformer is disposed on the reinforcing plate, and the space transformer has a plurality of inner conductive wires electrically connecting to those of the reinforcing plate via a plurality of first solder balls. The probe assembly is disposed on the space transformer, and the probe assembly includes a plurality of probes. The first solder balls are disposed in the receiving spaces, and the reinforcing plate abuts against the space transformer.