Automated Socket Actuation for High-Force Semiconductor Programmers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of loading and unloading semiconductor devices into sockets is labor-intensive, leading to operator fatigue, increased complexity, and potential injuries due to repetitive strain, especially with high-force sockets requiring multiple operators.
Innovation Solution
An automated socket actuation device that uses dual motors to open and close sockets, featuring a protective lid with tamper-proof sensors to ensure safe operation and streamline the workflow, eliminating the need for manual start buttons and reducing the skill level required for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual socket actuation is used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but operator fatigue and injury risk increase due to repetitive strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical actuation system with an automated actuation system that uses a motor-driven mechanism to open and close sockets. This substitution eliminates the repetitive manual pressing motion that causes operator fatigue and injury, while maintaining the functional capability of socket actuation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated actuation system performs the socket opening and closing operations independently without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system automatically actuates sockets based on programmed sequences, allowing the operator to focus on higher-value tasks while the mechanical actuation is handled by the automated system.
2Strength
If high-force sockets are used, then socket security and device protection improve, but the complexity and time required for operation increase due to requiring two operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a motor-driven actuation system that generates sufficient force to open high-force sockets automatically. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for multiple operators to manually apply force, as the automated system can deliver the required actuation force through controlled motor operation, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining socket security.
3Device complexity
If manual socket actuation is used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and throughput are limited by labor intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The automated actuation system enables continuous socket opening and closing operations without the interruptions and limitations imposed by manual labor. The system can rapidly cycle through multiple sockets in sequence, maintaining continuous productive action and significantly increasing throughput while keeping the operational interface simple through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing manual mechanical operations with an automated motor-driven system, the patent achieves higher productivity and throughput. The automated system can perform actuation operations much faster than manual labor, eliminating the productivity ceiling imposed by human operators while maintaining operational simplicity through automated sequencing and control.
4Device complexity
If manual start button is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but workflow efficiency and safety are reduced due to finger pinching risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective lid with integrated sensors as an intermediary between the operator and the socket actuation mechanism. The lid acts as a barrier that prevents finger pinching while the sensors detect when the lid is closed and automatically trigger the actuation sequence. This intermediary solution eliminates the need for a manual start button, improving safety and workflow efficiency while adding minimal system complexity.
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 device minimizes operator fatigue, prevents repetitive motion injuries, reduces placement errors, and allows for higher density socket usage, enhancing productivity and efficiency by automating the socket actuation process.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator configured to cause the pressure plate to press down on the at least one socket
Implementation Method 2
the at least one switch includes a photoelectric sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An automated socket actuation device may include a pressure plate configured to contact at least one socket. The device may include at least one actuator configured to cause the pressure plate to press down on the at least one socket. The device may further include a lid movable between an open position and a closed position. The device may inhibit operation of the at least one actuator when the lid is not in the closed position.