Test Pad with Segmented Zones for Probe Position Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Technicians face difficulties in accurately determining the direction and distance of probe offset in test fixtures, making probe correction challenging.
Innovation Solution
A test pad with conductive test zones, resistors, and insulating zones is used on a dummy board, where the position of a probe is determined by measuring resistance, and a correspondence table is employed to provide correction indications for direction and distance adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional probe testing methods are used, then the test fixture can operate, but the direction and distance of probe offset cannot be accurately determined
Solution Approach 1:
The test pad is segmented into multiple conductive zones with different resistance values, each zone corresponding to a specific probe position. By measuring which zone the probe contacts, the system can determine both the direction and distance of probe offset with high precision, transforming an unmeasurable problem into a quantifiable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a test pad with conductive zones as an intermediary element between the probe and the measurement system. This intermediary translates the physical probe position into measurable electrical resistance values, enabling accurate determination of probe offset without requiring direct measurement of the probe itself.
2Manufacturing precision
If probe correction is attempted without accurate position determination, then correction can be initiated, but the correction accuracy is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback by measuring the resistance value when the probe contacts a conductive zone, comparing it against reference values to determine the actual probe position. This feedback mechanism enables precise correction by showing technicians exactly how far and in what direction the probe needs to be adjusted.
Solution Approach 2:
The test pad is pre-configured with conductive zones having specific resistance values that correspond to known probe positions. This preliminary setup allows for quick and accurate correction by simply comparing the measured resistance against the pre-established reference values, making the correction process both precise and operationally simple.
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
Enables accurate determination and correction of probe positions, facilitating effective probe function and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
Each one of the resistors 3 has a different resistance. Each one of the resistors 3 is connected to a different one of the test zones 21... the position of the probe can be determined by measuring the resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining a position of a test probe of a test fixture applied to a test pad on a dummy board is disclosed. The test pad includes conductive test zones, resistors, a first insulating zone, and a plurality of second insulating zones. Each resistor has a different resistance. Each resistor is connected to a different test zone. The test zones include a first test zone and a surrounding plurality of second test zones. The first test zone is insulated from the second test zones by the first insulating zone. Adjacent second test zones are insulated from each other by a different second insulating zone. Probe correction can be carried out according to the value of resistance read by a resistance measuring device which stores a correspondence table, and position of the probe adjusted accordingly.