Improved Insulation and Self-Cleaning Modification of the Pin Detect Module Used on Connector Auto Press

Improved Insulation and Self-Cleaning Modification of the Pin Detect Module Used on Connector Auto Press

      The pin detect module,currently being used in junction with the
Electronic Card Assembly and Test (ECAT) Connector Auto Press was
designed to detect the presence of connector pins protruding through
the printed circuit board (PCB) after the connector is inserted.  Pin
detection can be a valuable tool for defect detection and process
control.  One fall back with the original design is a high "false
call" rate.

    The modified pin detect module was designed to eliminate the
false call rate by addressing the two main causes of the false calls:

1.  poorly insulated areas and
2.  dirt and debris preventing electrical contact.

      The basic unit of the pin detect module consists of a probe
which comes in contact with the lid of the module.  Both the probe
and the lid are made of conductive material and they act as a switch
(Fig. 1).  When a connector pin depresses a probe, the contact is
broken and a green light appears signifying that a pin is present
(Fig. 2).  If the pin is bent or missing, the switch remains closed
and a red light appears.

BETTER INSULATION - Fig. 3 illustrates one problem that causes false
calls.  The connector pin makes contact between the probe and the
module lid.  There appears to be a bent or missing pin since there is
still contact.  The modified pin detect module insulates the areas of
the lid that may come in contact...