Semiconductor Test Interface Exchange Module with Docking Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing testing systems for semiconductor elements require frequent replacement of interface units, which are subjected to high forces during the testing process, leading to potential wear and inaccuracy in positioning and holding forces.

Innovation Solution

A module for exchanging interface units in a testing system, featuring a basis element, a drawer unit with a holding frame, guide elements for moving the drawer unit between insertion and removal positions, and a docking element that allows for automatic coupling with a trolley for transferring interface units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If interface units are frequently replaced to test different semiconductor elements, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to wear and positioning inaccuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to test different semiconductor elementsVSAvoidpositioning accuracy and holding force

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into a permanent guide element structure and a replaceable interface unit. The guide elements (rails, grooves, alignment features) are integrated into the main testing system as a durable framework, while only the interface units needing frequent replacement are made detachable. This segmentation allows the reliable permanent structures to maintain positioning accuracy while the replaceable interface units provide adaptability for different semiconductor elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If heavy interface units are manually handled for replacement, then ease of operation deteriorates, but device complexity increases if automated mechanisms are added

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface unit replacement processVSAvoidautomated coupling mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The docking element features self-aligning and self-latching characteristics through its geometric design (complementary shapes, guide grooves, alignment pins). When the interface unit is inserted, the docking elements automatically engage and lock without requiring complex automated mechanisms or external assistance. The heavy interface unit essentially services itself during the replacement process, maintaining ease of operation while providing secure handling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The docking element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the heavy interface unit. Instead of directly manipulating the entire heavy interface unit, the operator interacts with the simplified docking interface (insertion and release actions). This intermediary docking mechanism mediates the complex task of handling heavy units, providing ease of operation without requiring the full complexity of automated handling systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If guide elements are designed to be robust for handling heavy interface units, then strength is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to wear and tolerance accumulation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle heavy interface unitsVSAvoidpositioning accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning function is segmented from the load-bearing function. The guide elements are designed with load-bearing sections that are robust for handling heavy interface units and positioning sections that prioritize manufacturing precision. The permanent guide element structure separates the high-stress coupling/holding functions from the precision alignment functions, allowing each to be optimized independently for its specific requirement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The guide elements incorporate tolerance compensation features that are designed in advance to account for wear and manufacturing variations. Alignment pins with clearance fits, self-correcting geometric relationships, and tolerance-absorbing joint designs are built into the permanent guide element structure before assembly. These beforehand cushioning features ensure that even with wear and tolerance accumulation, the positioning accuracy is maintained within acceptable limits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250155497A1Module for exchanging an interface unit, testing system with such a module, method for testing semiconductor elements and for exchanging interface units

Publication Date: 2025.05.15 TURBODYNAMICS GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a module for replacing an interface unit in a testing system with a handling unit and a testing unit for testing semiconductor elements. The module has a basis element, which is or can be attached to the testing system, and a drawer unit with a holding frame for holding an interface unit. Furthermore, the module comprises guide elements that connect the drawer unit to the basis element and are designed to guide the drawer unit relative to the basis element between an insertion position. The module is characterized in that the basis element has a docking element which comprises a counter-docking unit and is arranged adjacent to the holding frame in the removal position of the drawer unit.