Robot-Assisted Circuit Testing with Interactive Probing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for electric circuit verification are difficult to configure for debugging, often requiring laborious manual work to identify faults, as they lack efficient automation for robotic probing and interactive testing.
Innovation Solution
A robot-assisted testing system that combines robotic probes with a user interface for interactive testing and debugging of electronic circuits, allowing technicians to specify elements on a logical schematic drawing, with a test fixture including a robotic arm, probe, and computer system for precise measurement and signal generation, enabling automated probing and calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated sequential or concurrent probing systems are used for electric circuit verification, then productivity and measurement precision are improved, but adaptability for debugging and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its probing sequence and targets based on fault symptoms. The robotic arm can be redirected to probe different locations based on real-time analysis of test results, allowing the testing process to evolve from static predetermined sequences to dynamic fault-driven exploration
Solution Approach 2:
A computer system acts as an intermediary between the automated probing system and the technician. It receives high-level debugging instructions from the technician, translates them into automated probing sequences, and presents results in an intuitive format, bridging the gap between automated efficiency and human expertise
2Productivity
If automated probing systems are used for quality control, then productivity is improved, but ease of operation for debugging deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically analyzing test results and identifying potential fault locations. The computer system can autonomously determine which components to test next based on symptom patterns, reducing the need for manual intervention while maintaining debugging effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where test results are continuously analyzed and used to adjust subsequent probing sequences. This feedback mechanism allows the system to learn from each test result and adapt its debugging strategy, making the process easier to operate while maintaining high productivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual probing is used for fault identification, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but productivity and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical probing with automated robotic probing systems. The robotic arm equipped with precision positioning mechanisms can probe circuit board locations with higher accuracy and speed than manual operations, while the computer system provides the intelligence to adapt to different debugging scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods are provided for robot-assisted, interactive testing of electronic circuits comprising a test fixture comprising a robotic arm, a probe, and a bracket configured to hold a unit-under-test, wherein the probe is configured to be mounted on the robotic arm and to perform a probe action, and a computer system communicatively connected to the test fixture and comprising a graphics display, a user input device. The computer system is configured to present on the graphics display a logic schematic of the unit-under-test, to receive a user selection of a target element shown on the logic schematic, to determine the corresponding physical location on the unit-under-test of said element, to move the probe to the physical location of the target element, by means of the robotic arm, and to perform one or more probe actions.