Self-Centering Nest for Microprocessor Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test fixtures for integrated circuit modules are not adaptable to modules of varying sizes, leading to issues like rotation, open circuits, short circuits, increased wear, and prolonged testing times due to the need for retesting.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering nest with slideable jaws and springs that automatically adjust to secure and center microprocessor chip modules, reducing the likelihood of short and open circuits by capturing and holding the module in place during testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a test fixture is designed to accommodate the largest module allowed by design specifications, then the fixture can handle the maximum module size, but smaller modules within tolerance may rotate or move in the fixture
Solution Approach 1:
The test fixture employs slideable jaws that can dynamically adjust their position along the module edges. The jaws move independently to match the actual module dimensions, transforming a static fixture into a dynamic one that adapts to varying module sizes while maintaining secure positioning and preventing rotation or movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture allows changing the positional parameters of the jaws along the module boundaries. By adjusting the jaw positions based on the actual module dimensions within tolerance ranges, the system optimizes the fit for each specific module size, ensuring stable positioning without requiring a completely different fixture design.
2Manufacturing precision
If a test fixture is designed for a specific module size, then the fixture provides proper positioning for that size, but retesting is required when module size varies within tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The slideable jaws enable the fixture to dynamically reconfigure for different module sizes without requiring complete fixture replacement or retesting. The jaws can be quickly adjusted to match the actual module dimensions, maintaining positioning accuracy while eliminating time-consuming retesting procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture is designed to self-adjust to the actual module size through the slideable jaws mechanism. When a module is placed in the fixture, the jaws can automatically or easily be positioned to match the module's exact dimensions, eliminating the need for manual intervention or retesting to achieve proper positioning.
3Device complexity
If a test fixture uses fixed jaws for module securing, then the fixture structure is simple, but the fixture causes increased wear and requires additional retesting for modules within tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture incorporates slideable jaws that add minimal complexity while significantly improving testing efficiency. The jaws can slide along the module edges to accommodate size variations, preventing wear caused by improper positioning and eliminating retesting requirements, thereby maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture allows changing the positional parameters of the jaws to match actual module dimensions. This simple parameter adjustment mechanism prevents fixture wear and eliminates retesting, maintaining testing efficiency without requiring complex reconfiguration procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces the incidence of short and open circuits, thereby decreasing overall testing time and cost by minimizing the need for retesting.
Implementation Method 1
The self-centering nest includes a plurality of springs, each spring having a first end connected to the first slideable jaw and a second end connected to the second slideable jaw. When the centering nest holding the module is pulled away from the carrier and the jaw pins disengage from the carrier, the springs cause the first jaw and the second jaw to move toward each other capturing and centering the microprocessor chip module.
Data Source
AI summary
The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a self-centering nest for testing of microprocessor chip modules. The self-centering nest includes two slideable jaws disposed on a base diagonally opposite each other. Each jaw includes a jaw pin that is receptive in a carrier, such that when the jaw pins are received in the carrier, the jaws are in an open position. The self-centering nest includes a transfer mechanism for urging a microprocessor chip module from the carrier into the self-centering nest. The self-centering nest includes a plurality of springs, each spring having a first end connected to the first slideable jaw and a second end connected to the second slideable jaw. The springs cause the jaws to move toward each other capturing and centering the microprocessor chip module when the jaws are pulled away from the carrier releasing the jaw pins.