17401252. Probe Arrays and Improved Methods for Making and Using Longitudinal Deformation of Probe Preforms simplified abstract (Microfabrica Inc.)

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Probe Arrays and Improved Methods for Making and Using Longitudinal Deformation of Probe Preforms

Organization Name

Microfabrica Inc.

Inventor(s)

Michael S. Lockard of Lake Elizabeth CA (US)

Uri Frodis of Los Angeles CA (US)

Dennis R. Smalley of Newhall CA (US)

Probe Arrays and Improved Methods for Making and Using Longitudinal Deformation of Probe Preforms - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17401252 titled 'Probe Arrays and Improved Methods for Making and Using Longitudinal Deformation of Probe Preforms

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes arrays of probes for testing electronic devices, such as semiconductor devices, which are formed by initially fabricating probe preforms in batch with bases and/or ends located in array patterns. These preforms are then longitudinally plastically deformed to yield probes with extended longitudinal lengths. Probes may have deformable spring elements formed from single or multi-layer structures, and arrays may include laterally overlapping or interlaced structures that become laterally displaced upon deformation.

  • Probes for testing electronic devices
  • Arrays of probes formed from preforms
  • Longitudinal plastic deformation to extend probe length
  • Deformable spring elements in probes
  • Lateral displacement of structures in arrays upon deformation

Potential Applications

The technology can be applied in:

  • Wafer level testing of semiconductor devices
  • Socket level testing of electronic devices
  • Quality control testing in manufacturing processes

Problems Solved

This technology helps to:

  • Improve testing accuracy and efficiency
  • Increase the reliability of test results
  • Reduce the need for manual testing procedures

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include:

  • Enhanced testing capabilities
  • Cost-effective testing solutions
  • Increased productivity in device manufacturing processes

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology can be utilized in various industries for:

  • Semiconductor manufacturing
  • Electronics production
  • Quality assurance testing services

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be the use of traditional probes for testing electronic devices, which may not have the same level of flexibility and efficiency as the arrays of probes described in this patent application.

Unanswered Questions

How does the longitudinal plastic deformation process affect the durability of the probes?

The article does not provide information on the long-term durability of the probes after undergoing the plastic deformation process. It would be important to understand if this process affects the lifespan of the probes and if they need to be replaced more frequently.

Are there any limitations to the size or type of electronic devices that can be tested using these probes?

The article does not mention any restrictions on the size or type of electronic devices that can be tested using these probes. It would be helpful to know if there are any limitations in terms of device dimensions or materials that could impact the effectiveness of the testing process.


Original Abstract Submitted

Probes for testing (e.g. wafer level testing or socket level testing) of electronic devices (e.g. semiconductor devices) and more particularly, arrays of such probes are provided. Probes are formed by initially fabricating probe preforms in batch with bases and/or ends located in array patterns, directly or indirectly on one or more build substrates with the arrayed preforms being in a longitudinally compressed state and whereafter the preforms are longitudinally plastically deformed to yield probes or partially formed probes with extended longitudinal lengths. Probes may be formed with deformable spring elements formed from one or more single layers which are joined by vertical elements located on other layers or they may be formed by spring elements that are formed as multi-layer structures. Arrays may include probe preforms with laterally overlapping or interlaced structures (but longitudinally displaced) which may remain laterally overlapping or become laterally displaced upon plastic deformation.