Test Head Cradle and Cable Handler for Compliant Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test head positioners face challenges in smoothly positioning the test head due to complex and expensive electromagnetic components, and the handling of increasing large and awkward cables, hoses, and tubing is difficult, complicating the process.
Innovation Solution
A cradle system with a single actuator for theta motion, using a manual or motorized crank, and a cable support system with tethers that move in sync with the test head, allowing for integrated driven theta/tumble motion and compliance in multiple degrees of freedom, along with a cable handling scheme that adjusts to the test head's motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If motorized actuators with clutch mechanisms are used to enable compliant test head positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex electromagnetic clutch mechanisms from the actuator system while retaining the compliant positioning capability through pure mechanical means. The cradle arms are designed with inherent compliance that allows small external forces to move the test head, eliminating the need for electromagnetic components and controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive electromagnetic components with simpler, more durable mechanical elements. The mechanical compliance system uses basic mechanical structures rather than costly electromagnetic actuators with clutch mechanisms, reducing both device complexity and cost.
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic components and controllers are used to coordinate actuator motions, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the electromagnetic components and controllers from the system, replacing them with a purely mechanical coordination system. The cradle arms are mechanically linked so that when one arm moves, the other arm moves in coordination through the mechanical structure itself, eliminating the need for electronic controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system is designed to self-coordinate the motion of the two cradle arms without external control. The inherent mechanical coupling between the arms allows them to automatically synchronize their movements, providing compliant positioning without requiring electromagnetic coordination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cables with multiple conductors, air ducts, and hoses are included to support test head functionality, then test head capability is improved, but cable handling difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible cable management structures that can accommodate the bulk and complexity of cables with multiple conductors, air ducts, and hoses. The flexible design allows these substantial cable assemblies to be routed and managed without creating operational difficulties, adapting to the test head's movements while maintaining ease of handling.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a cradle system for supporting a load, the cradle system comprising a first arm with a first carriage assembly axially adjustable therealong and a second arm, opposite the first arm, with a second carriage assembly axially adjustable therealong. An actuator is associated with the first and second carriage assemblies and configured such that actuation of the actuator causes the first and second carriage assemblies to move axially in opposite directions. In another aspect, a cable support system comprising a support column and one or more tethers supported by the support column and configurable so that at least one tether is configured to move its supported cable in the same or opposite direction as the test head moves at a rate that is a constant multiplied by the test heads rate of motion where the constant may be greater than, equal to, or less than one.