Robotic Electrical Component Testing With Switchable Contacting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical testing methods for components are not effective, reliable, or energy-efficient, particularly in ensuring precise orientation and secure handling of electrical components during testing.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a robot manipulator with an effector for precise handling and a mechanical receiving interface, combined with a contacting device and analysis unit for automated electrical testing, including control programs for force-controlled and impedance-controlled movements to ensure accurate component insertion and testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a robot manipulator is used for component handling and insertion, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into functionally independent modules: a robot manipulator for component handling, a contacting device for electrical testing, and an analysis unit for data processing. Each module operates semi-autonomously, allowing the system to achieve high precision through specialized components while managing complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
A control unit serves as an intermediary between the robot manipulator and the contacting device, coordinating their operations. The control unit receives component position data from the robot manipulator and triggers the contacting device accordingly, enabling precise coordinated action without requiring direct complex integration between all components.
2Measurement precision
If the contacting device remains in the second state for testing, then measurement precision is improved, but the robot manipulator cannot insert or remove components
Solution Approach 1:
The contacting device is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to switch between two operational states: a first state where it is retracted to allow component insertion/removal, and a second state where it makes electrical contact for testing. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to alternate between handling and measurement functions without permanent compromise to either capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The contacting device operates in periodic cycles, alternating between retraction (first state) for component handling and engagement (second state) for electrical testing. This periodic switching allows the system to perform sequential operations of component insertion and subsequent testing, with each phase optimized for its specific function.
3Productivity
If automated control is implemented for the robot manipulator and contacting device, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring the position and state of both the robot manipulator and contacting device. Sensor data regarding component placement and electrical contact status are fed back to the control unit, which automatically adjusts operations to maintain optimal testing conditions, enabling automated high-throughput operation with intelligent error correction.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for electrical testing of a component, the component including a contact point, wherein the device includes: an interface to provide the component; a robot manipulator having an effector configured to pick up, handle, and release the component; a receiving interface into which the component is insertable; a contacting device having a counter contact, the contacting device positioned in a first state so that the robot manipulator is able to insert/remove the component into/from the receiving interface, and positioned in a second state so that the counter contact is connected to the contact point of the component inserted into the receiving interface; an analysis unit connected to the counter contact and configured to perform electrical testing of the component using connection of the counter contact and the contact point in the second state; and a control unit to control the robot manipulator and the contacting device.