"Apparatus for testing circuit boards"

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is an apparatus for testing circuit boards.

The invention also regards a use of an apparatus for testing circuit boards.

The invention described herein also regards a method for testing a circuit board.

The invention has advantageous application in the technical field of testing of circuit boards (load board), for example complex circuit boards, which are configured for testing electronic devices such as electronic components (e.g. integrated circuits) or electronic modules.

STATE OF THE ART

In the field of testing devices (DUT, i.e. Device Under Testing) such as electronic components (e.g. integrated circuits) or electronic modules, machines are known for testing such devices. The machines for testing such devices make use of a circuit board, which serves for simultaneously testing a plurality of devices. In order to be able to test multiple devices at a time, the circuit board has a plurality of seats, at each of which a respective device is housed. The test of the devices occurs in the field of their production and is substantially a quality control aimed to verify possible defects or malfunctions of the devices (DUT) before the introduction onto the market; the test is of pass (pass condition, i.e. no failure)/non pass (fail condition, i.e. detection of a failure) type. In operating conditions, i.e. during the test of the devices, the circuit board is interposed between a test device or tester and such devices. The above-described machine for testing devices and the relative test mode which it implements have considerable drawbacks. In fact, if the tester detects defects or malfunctions (fail condition), these could not necessarily be due to the devices that are being tested, but rather could be due to the circuit board that is being used for the test. In more detail, the fail condition is typically associated with a position on the circuit board (the position corresponds with a seat for a device). If there is a single failure on a position of the circuit board, one proceeds to discard the tested device. If however, by means of further tests, a series of consecutive fail conditions is verified on a same monitored position, there is a suspect failure of the circuit board. Given that the machines for testing devices are usually very costly, typically only one machine is arranged for testing devices or, in any case, multiple machines which are managed in parallel so as to advance to the quality control the greatest possible number of devices to be tested in parallel, so as to proceed with the production at the maximum possible rhythm in terms of pieces produced and tested in a single time unit (for example per hour or day). Nevertheless, both in the case in which only one machine is provided for the test of the devices and in the case there is more than one, in order to carry out the further above-described tests at the fail position it is necessary to use the single available machine or one from among the available machines and, therefore, it is necessary to stop the production (in the case of a single machine available for testing the devices) or slow the production (in the case that one of the plurality of available machines is blocked). The slowing and, even more so, the blocking of the production are possibilities that are highly undesirable since they decrease the number of pieces produced and tested per unit of time, and hence the productivity and profitability of the production is decreased. In addition, in the event in which it is the circuit board that is subjected to failure (fail condition of the circuit board), further activities or verifications must be carried out thereon, such as a debug of the circuit board; such activities or verifications require a highly-qualified professional figure and therefore, in addition to the stopping or slowing of the production as described above, they cannot be carried out by any operator, and they are not always easy to carry out (for example, one needs only to recall the difficulty of having a highly-qualified professional figure available in brief time periods).

In order to overcome such drawbacks, systems and relative methods are known for testing with movable probes, known in the technical field of reference with the expression "flying probe”; these are aimed to test the circuit boards, in a manner such to verify the integrity thereof. The methods using movable probes provide for moving the probes, by moving them on the surface of the circuit board, in order to test different components or portions of the circuit board itself. The test of the circuit board allows verifying the integrity thereof; if the test gives positive outcome (integral circuit board), the possible fail in a position at which a device is housed is due to the device itself; in the case of positive outcome, there is proof that the series of discarded devices is actually not compliant and therefore an analysis of the production process of such devices is required. Consequently, there is no longer the uncertainty that the failure can be due to the circuit board or to the device subjected to the test housed in the specific fail position. If, however, the test of the circuit board gives negative outcome (fail condition of the circuit board), the test is used for seeking the failed part of the circuit board. Nevertheless, also such systems have at least the following drawbacks: the movable probe systems only allow testing circuit boards lacking electrical power supply (bringing all the electrical power supplies necessary for the circuit board would require too many probes, and in any case it would not be possible to bring all the commands to the circuits necessary for activating the various parts of the circuit board) and therefore they do not allow testing characteristics or functions of the circuit board that are only testable when the latter is power supplied. In addition, such systems are costly and the substitution of the probes is burdensome. In addition to the abovementioned drawbacks, in order to be able to use the movable probe system on a circuit board, it is necessary, before its use, to disassemble several mechanical components of the circuit board; the use of movable probe systems results very long, difficult and complex.

In light of the above, the Applicant has developed a technical solution, pursuant to the invention that will be detailed hereinbelow, which allows overcoming the limitations and drawbacks described above with reference to the prior art.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

Object of the present invention is therefore that of resolving at least one of the drawbacks and/or limitations of the preceding solutions.

A first object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus which allows testing circuit boards in a simple and effective manner. Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus which allows testing circuit boards independently of the devices (DUT), i.e. without having to use such devices.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus which allows testing a plurality of circuit boards, e.g. which are different from each other.

Another object of the invention described herein is constituted by testing a circuit board in an easy and intuitive manner.

Another object of the present invention is represented by disclosing a method which allows testing circuit boards in an effective manner.

Another object of the present invention is that of testing a circuit board both in conditions in which it is electrically power supplied, and in conditions in which it is not electrically power supplied.

The objects described above with reference to the apparatus for testing circuit boards or to the method for testing circuit boards are shared by both and by a use of the apparatus.

These objects and still others, which will be clearer from the following description, are substantially attained by an interface kit, by an apparatus for testing circuit boards, by a use of the apparatus for testing circuit boards and by a method for testing circuit boards in accordance with one or more of the enclosed claims and/or with one or more of the following aspects.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are described hereinbelow.

In a 1st aspect, provision is made for an interface kit for an apparatus for testing at least one circuit board, the circuit board being an interface device configured for supporting at least one electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit, the interface kit comprising:

- a mounting mask defining an engagement portion for a circuit board,

- an adapter connectable to a circuit board to be tested and to a test device of the apparatus and configured for being operatively interposed, in use conditions of the apparatus, between the circuit board to be tested housed in said engagement portion and the test device, the adapter being configured for closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device so as to allow testing the circuit board.

In a 2nd aspect in accordance with the 1st aspect, the mounting mask is configured for being positioned at a housing of a frame of the apparatus.

In a 3rd aspect in accordance with the 1st or with the 2nd aspect, the interface kit constitutes a module selectively engageable with the frame so as to render the apparatus suitable for the test of a specific circuit board, for example of a specific topology or model of circuit board, configured for being engaged at the engagement portion of the mounting mask of the respective interface kit. In a 4th aspect in accordance with the 1st or with the 2nd or with the 3rd aspect, the interface kit is specifically configured for operating with a specific circuit board, for example with a specific topology or model of circuit board.

In a 5th aspect provision is made for an apparatus comprising an interface kit in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 1st to the 4th aspect.

In a 6th aspect in accordance with the 5th aspect, the apparatus also comprises a frame defining a housing.

In a 7th aspect in accordance with the 5th or with the 6th aspect, the apparatus also comprises a test device configured or configurable for testing at least one circuit board, for example one circuit board at a time.

In an 8th aspect provision is made for an apparatus for testing at least one circuit board, the circuit board being an interface device configured for supporting at least one electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit, the apparatus comprising:

- a frame defining a housing,

- a test device configured or configurable for testing at least one circuit board, for example one circuit board at a time,

- at least one interface kit comprising: o a mounting mask defining an engagement portion for a circuit board, the mounting mask being configured for being positioned at said housing, o an adapter connectable to a circuit board to be tested and to the test device and configured for being operatively interposed, in use conditions of the apparatus, between the circuit board to be tested housed in said engagement portion and the test device, the adapter being configured for closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device so as to allow testing the circuit board.

In a 9th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the adapter comprises a first connection portion configured for being connected with the circuit board and a second connection portion configured for being connected with the test device, for example by means of respective wires or connectors or contacts, such as spring contacts.

In a 10th aspect in accordance with the 9th aspect, the first connection portion and the second connection portion are defined on non-coplanar surfaces of the adapter.

In an 11th aspect in accordance with the 9th or with the 10th aspect, the first connection portion and the second connection portion are defined on opposite surfaces of the adapter.

In a 12th aspect in accordance with the 9th or with the 10th or with the 11th aspect, the first connection portion is defined at an upper surface of the adapter.

In a 13th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 9th to the 12th, the second connection portion is defined at a lower surface of the adapter.

In a 14th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 9th to the 13th, each between the first connection portion and the second connection portion is an electrical connection portion. In a 15th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a pocket, the adapter being housed or housable at the pocket.

In a 16th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the engagement portion is at least partially or completely counter-shaped or corresponding to the circuit board which it is intended to house.

In a 17th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the adapter is a closed circuit adapter. In a 18th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises at least one electrical connection portion configured for electrically connecting the mounting mask with the test device.

In a 19th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a control unit configured or configurable for managing and/or supervising at least one test of at least one circuit board.

In a 20th aspect in accordance with the 19th aspect, the control unit is operatively connected at least with the test device or is part of the test device.

In a 21st aspect in accordance with the 19th or with the 20th aspect, the control unit is configured and/or configured and/or programmed and/or programmable for managing a plurality of tests relative to circuit boards that are different from each other.

In a 22nd aspect in accordance with the 19 or with the 20th or with the 21st aspect, the frame defines an internal volume, the control unit being housed at the internal volume.

In a 23rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the mounting mask comprises at least one constraining member configured for operating between a constraining configuration in which it constrains a circuit board to the engagement portion and a release configuration in which it does not constrain said circuit board.

In a 24th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the mounting mask comprises a plurality of constraining members arranged perimetrically with respect to the engagement portion, each constraining member being configured for operating on a respective portion of the circuit board.

In a 25th aspect in accordance with the 23rd or with the 24th aspect, each constraining member comprises a maneuvering element and a constraining element, such as a foot, the maneuvering element being configured for operating on said constraining element in order to allow the transition thereof between the release configuration and the constraining configuration and vice versa.

In a 26th aspect in accordance with the 25th aspect, each maneuvering element comprises a reliable knob or a translatable tilted plane or an element operable by means of compressed air, in particular via pressure/reduced pressure of compressed air.

In a 27th aspect in accordance with the 25th or with the 26th aspect, each constraining element comprises a small foot.

In a 28th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the mounting mask comprises at least one electrical connection portion configured for being electrically connected, in use conditions of the apparatus, with the circuit board. In a 29th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the mounting mask comprises a further electrical connection portion configured for being electrically connected, in use conditions of the apparatus, with the electrical connection portion of the apparatus.

In a 30th aspect in accordance with the 28th or with the 29th aspect, the electrical connection portion of the mounting mask and the further electrical connection portion are defined at opposite surfaces of the mounting mask.

In a 31st aspect in accordance with the 28th or with the 29th or with the 30th aspect, the electrical connection portion of the mounting mask is defined at an upper surface of the mounting mask.

In a 32nd aspect in accordance with the 29th or with the 30th or with the 31st aspect, the further electrical connection portion of the mounting mask is defined at a lower surface of the mounting mask.

In a 33rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the frame comprises a covering element, the housing being defined by the covering element.

In a 34th aspect in accordance with the 33rd aspect, the covering element comprises a framework, the housing being defined at a hollow central portion of the framework.

In a 35th aspect in accordance with the 33rd or with the 34th aspect, the covering element has a window configured for allowing accessibility to a pocket of the apparatus.

In a 36th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises at least one interface device operatively connected to the test device and/or to the control unit and configured for allowing, for example an operator to carry out or in a semi-automatic manner, for example by means of an assisted mode, at least one from among the following operations: setting of a test program, management of a test program, monitoring of a test, evaluation of the results of a test, generation of a report relative to the results of a test.

In a 37th aspect in accordance with the 36th aspect, the interface device is a user interface device and is configured for allowing an operator to dialogue at least with the test device.

In a 38th aspect in accordance with the 36th or with the 37th aspect, a program is operating on the interface device which is configured for implementing at least one from among said operations.

In a 39th aspect in accordance with the 36th or with the 37th or with the 38th aspect, the interface device is configured for dialoguing with the test device.

In a 40th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 36th to the 39th, the interface device comprises at least one from among: a screen such as a touch-sensitive screen (touch screen), a laptop, a computer, a processor, a mouse, a keyboard.

In a 41st aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 36th to the 40th, the interface device is engaged, directly or indirectly, with the frame.

In a 42nd aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 36th to the 41st, the interface device is remotely positioned with respect to the frame.

In a 43rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises at least one locking device configured for operating between a rest configuration and an operative configuration in which it maintains the mounting mask engaged with the frame. In a 44th aspect in accordance with the 43rd aspect, the locking device comprises:

- a locking element configured for cooperating with the mounting mask and configured for operating between a rest configuration and an operative configuration, and

- an actuating element operating on the locking element, the actuating element being configured for determining the transition of the locking element between the rest configuration and the operative configuration and vice versa.

In a 45th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a plurality of locking elements arranged perimetrically with respect to said housing, each locking element being configured for cooperating with a respective portion of the mounting mask.

In a 46th aspect in accordance with the 44th or with the 45th aspect, the actuating element is of reliable type.

In a 47th aspect in accordance with the 44th or with the 45th or with the 46th aspect, the actuating element comprises a lever, optionally the lever being of reliable type.

In a 48th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 44th to the 47th, the locking element has a groove configured for being engaged with a portion of the mounting mask so as to guide the positioning thereof with respect to the frame.

In a 49th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 44th to the 48th, the locking element comprises a body that is substantially cylindrical or frustoconical or conical, which can be actuated via rotation, or a body that is substantially flat, actuatable via translation, the groove being defined on said body, e.g. obliquely, in particular at an external surface of the body.

In a 50th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the frame has a work surface, said housing being defined at the work surface.

In a 51st aspect in accordance with the 50th aspect, the work surface is defined at an upper portion of the frame. In a 52nd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a plurality of interface kits, each mounting mask of each interface kit defining an engagement portion that is different, for example due to shape and/or at least one dimension and/or at least one connection portion, e.g. an electrical connection portion, from the engagement portions of the respective mounting masks of the other interface kits. In a 53rd aspect in accordance with the 52nd aspect, each mounting mask is configured for being engaged with a respective circuit board.

In a 54th aspect in accordance with the 52nd or with the 53rd aspect, the apparatus is of modular type, each interface kit constituting a module selectively engageable with the frame so as to render the apparatus suitable for the test of a plurality of specific circuit boards, each of which configured for being engaged at the engagement portion of the mounting mask of the respective interface kit.

In a 55th aspect in accordance with the 52nd or with the 53rd or with the 54th aspect, each interface kit is specifically configured for operating with a specific circuit board, for example with a specific topology or model of circuit board. In a 56th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 52nd to the 55th, the mounting mask and the adapter of each interface kit are specifically configured for operating with a specific circuit board, for example with a specific topology or model of circuit board.

In a 57th aspect, provision is made for a use of an apparatus, in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects and/or of the enclosed apparatus claims, for testing one or more circuit boards.

In a 58th aspect in accordance with the 57th aspect, the use provides for testing one circuit board at a time.

In a 59th aspect in accordance with the 57th or with the 58th aspect, the use provides for substituting interface kits as a function of the model or type of circuit board to be tested.

In a 60th aspect provision is made for a method for testing at least one circuit board, comprising the following steps:

- arranging a circuit board to be tested, the circuit board being an interface device configured for supporting at least one electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit,

- arranging a test device, configured or configurable for testing at least one circuit board, for example one circuit board at a time,

- constraining the circuit board, for example housing it at an engagement portion of a mounting mask of an apparatus for testing circuit boards,

- closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter,

- after having closed the circuit, testing the circuit board.

In a 61st aspect provision is made for a method for testing at least one circuit board, comprising the following steps:

- arranging a circuit board to be tested, the circuit board being an interface device configured for supporting at least one electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit,

- housing the circuit board at an engagement portion of a mounting mask of an apparatus for testing circuit boards,

- positioning the mounting mask or verifying the positioning of the mounting mask at a housing of the frame of the apparatus for testing circuit boards,

- closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter,

- after having closed the circuit, testing the circuit board.

In a 62nd aspect provision is made for a method for testing at least one circuit board, comprising the following steps:

- arranging an apparatus in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 1st to the 56th and/or with any one of the enclosed apparatus claims,

- arranging a circuit board to be tested, the circuit board being an interface device configured for supporting at least one electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit,

- housing the circuit board at the engagement portion of the mounting mask, - positioning the mounting mask or verifying the positioning of the mounting mask at the housing of the frame,

- closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter,

- after having closed the circuit, testing the circuit board.

In a 63rd aspect in accordance with the 60th or with the 61st or with the 62nd aspect, the step of closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter comprises operatively interposing the adapter between the circuit board and the test device.

In a 64th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 63rd, the step of closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter comprises electrically closing the circuit. In a 65th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 64th, the step of closing a circuit between the circuit board and the test device by means of an adapter comprises connecting the adapter to the circuit board and to the test device.

In a 66th aspect in accordance with the 65th aspect, the step of connecting the adapter to the circuit board and to the test device comprises electrically connecting the adapter to the circuit board and to the test device.

In a 67th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 66th, the step of testing the circuit board comprises at least one from among the following steps:

- verifying or measuring one or more functions and/or one or more parameters of the circuit board,

- verifying the integrity of the circuit board,

- verifying one or more functional characteristics of the circuit board,

- verifying one or more structural characteristics of the circuit board,

- collecting data on the consumptions and parameters of specific components of the circuit board in order to analyze the health state thereof and predict the deterioration thereof before the occurrence of failure.

In a 68th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 67th, the step of positioning the mounting mask or verifying the positioning of the mounting mask at the housing of the frame precedes the step of housing a circuit board at the engagement portion of the mounting mask.

In a 69th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 68th, the method comprises a step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus, for example one or more test parameters or objectives.

In a 70th aspect in accordance with the 69th aspect, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus precedes the step of testing the circuit board.

In a 71st aspect in accordance with the 69th or with the 70th aspect, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus is a function of the circuit board to be tested.

In a 72nd aspect in accordance with the 69th or with the 70th or with the 71st aspect, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus is executed by an operator. In a 73rd aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 69th to the 72, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus is semi-automatic, and optionally provides for an assisted mode.

In a 74th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 69th to the 73rd, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus is at least partially or completely managed by a control unit.

In a 75th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 69th to the 74th, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus comprises:

- detecting a parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested, for example at least one from among: the type, the model or the producer of the circuit board to be tested,

- personalizing the test program based on the specific circuit board detected, for example on the specific topology or model of circuit board detected.

In a 76th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 69th to the 75th, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus comprises introducing, at the input of the apparatus, for example by means of an interface device, the parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested.

In a 77th aspect in accordance with the 76th aspect, the step of introducing, at the input of the apparatus, the parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested is comprised between the step of detecting a parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested and the step of personalizing the test program based on the specific circuit board detected, for example on the specific topology or model of circuit board detected.

In a 78th aspect in accordance with the 76th or with the 77th aspect, the step of introducing, at the input of the apparatus, the parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested follows the step of detecting a parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board to be tested.

In a 79th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 78th, the method comprises a step of managing a test program during the execution by the apparatus.

In an 80th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 79th, the method comprises a step of monitoring a test of a circuit board executed by the apparatus.

In an 81st aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 80th, the method comprises a step of evaluating results of a test of a circuit board executed by the apparatus.

In an 82nd aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 81st, the method comprises a step of generating a report relative to the results of the test.

In an 83rd aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 82nd, at least one from among the steps of setting a test program of a circuit board to be executed by the apparatus, managing a test program during the execution by the apparatus, monitoring a test of a circuit board executed by the apparatus, evaluating the results of a test of a circuit board executed by the apparatus, generating a report relative to the results of the test is executed by means of an interface device or by means of a program operating on the interface device. In an 84th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 83rd, the method comprises a step of substituting interface kit.

In an 85th aspect in accordance with the 84th aspect, the step of substituting interface kit is a function of the model or type of circuit board to be tested.

In an 86th aspect in accordance with the 84th or with the 85th aspect, the step of substituting interface kit is performed between a test of a first circuit board and a subsequent test of a second circuit board, the second circuit board being different from the first circuit board.

In an 87th aspect in accordance with the 86th aspect, the second circuit board differs from the first circuit board by model and/or type and/or dimensions and/or producer.

In an 88th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 87th, the method does not provide for housing an electronic module or an electronic component such as an integrated circuit at the dedicated seats of the circuit board.

In an 89th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the circuit board is provided with a frame configured for engaging the circuit board with the mounting mask or with coupling elements, such as centering pins, configured for engaging the circuit board with the mounting mask.

In a 90th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the test device comprises components, e.g. electronic components, configured for testing circuit boards.

In a 91st aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, each circuit board comprises a printed circuit.

In a 92nd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises an uninterrupted power supply.

In a 93rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the uninterrupted power supply is configured in order to face variations of voltage and/or interruptions of electrical power supply, for example coming from the main power grid to which the apparatus is electrically connected.

In a 94th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the test device is configured for testing and/or verifying and/or measuring at least one from among, in particular a plurality from among: one or more passive values, inductance, at least one resistance, at least one capacitor, at least one impedance, continuity, at least one connection (for example at least one electrical connection portion), at least one switchover time, relay function or other buffers, at least one voltage and/or current measurement, at least one setting of at least one constant voltage and/or current generator, reading and writing of inputs and/or digital patterns, leakage measurements, at least one function of at least one digital circuit.

In a 95th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the circuit board comprises one or more electronic circuits.

In a 96th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the circuit board is of the type with printed circuit. In a 97th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the mounting mask comprises an identification element configured for identifying the model and/or the function and/or a further parameter or information of the circuit board.

In a 98th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the adapter comprises an identification element configured for identifying the model and/or the function and/or a further information or parameter of the circuit board.

In a 99th aspect in accordance with the 97th or with the 98th aspect, the identification element comprises an electronic device, such as an integrated circuit, or a key, e.g. a normal key, or a combination of electrical contacts.

In a 100th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 99th, the method comprises a step of identifying the model and/or the function and/or a further information or parameter of the circuit board. In a 101st aspect in accordance with the 100th aspect, the step of identifying the model and/or the function and/or a further information or parameter of the circuit board is performed by means of an identification element of the mounting mask and/or by means of an identification element of the adapter.

In a 102nd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the test device is configurable or configured for performing a self-diagnosis or self-test.

In a 103rd aspect in accordance with the 102nd aspect, the test device comprises at least one board, for example at least one circuit board, and/or at least one connection portion, for example an electrical connection portion, the self-diagnosis or self-test being configured for testing or verifying said at least one board and/or said at least one connection portion.

In a 104th aspect in accordance with the 102nd or with the 103rd aspect, the control unit is configured for managing and monitoring the self-diagnosis or self-test.

I n a 105th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 19th to the 104th, the test device comprises the control unit.

In a 106th aspect in accordance with any one of the aspects from the 60th to the 105th, the method comprises a step of performing a diagnosis or a test of the test device.

In a 107th aspect in accordance with the 106th aspect, the step of performing a diagnosis or a test of the test device comprises performing a self-diagnosis or a self-test by means of the test device.

In a 108th aspect in accordance with the 106th or with the 107th aspect, the step of performing a diagnosis or a test of the test device comprises testing or verifying at least one board, e.g. a circuit board, and/or at least one connection portion, e.g. an electrical connection portion, of the test device.

In a 109th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a control mounting mask comprising electrical connection portions configured for executing the electrical test of one or more electrical connection portions of the test device which, in a condition of engagement between test device and mounting mask, allow the electrical connection between the test device and the mounting mask.

In a 110th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a control circuit board comprising electrical connection portions configured for executing the electrical test of electrical connection portions of the mounting mask which, in a condition of engagement between the mounting mask and the circuit board, allow the electrical connection between the mounting mask and the circuit board.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Several embodiments and several aspects of the invention will be described hereinbelow with reference to the enclosed drawings, provided only as a non-limiting example in which:

- figure 1 is an exploded view of several components of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and of a circuit board which can be tested by means of such apparatus,

- figure 2 is a top view of part of the apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,

- figure 3 is a top view of a mounting mask of the apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,

- figure 4 illustrates a top view of an interface kit, comprising the mounting mask of figure 3, with which a circuit board is engaged, and an adapter connected to the circuit board,

- figure 5 is a bottom view of an adapter of the apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,

- figure 6 is a top view of the adapter of figure 5,

- figure 7 is a schematic representation of the apparatus in accordance with the present invention, with which a circuit board to be tested is engaged.

DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It is observed that in the present detailed description, corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated with the same reference numbers. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention by means of representations that are not in scale; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures relative to the object of the invention might only regard schematic representations. In the context of the present description, the use of terms such as "above”, "upper”, "on the top part”, "below”, "lower”, "on the lower part”, "alongside”, "lateral”, "laterally”, "horizontal”, "horizontally”, "vertical”, "vertically”, "front”, "frontally”, "rea , "on the rear part” and the like refer - except where otherwise indicated - to at least one spatial orientation which the object of the invention can normally take on in operating conditions or use conditions. On such matter, see the enclosed figures illustrating at least one possible spatial orientation of the object of the invention. Except where otherwise specifically indicated, the terms "condition” or "configuration” can be used interchangeably in the context of the present document.

Hereinbelow, several definitions are reported which can be used for the purpose of better understanding the present invention: with the terms "test”, "testing” and the like it is intended the test or the action of testing, by means of the apparatus or the method pursuant to the present invention, a device, such as a circuit board, in order to verify one or more structural functions and/or characteristics thereof relative to the integrity, or lack thereof, of said device. Examples of structural functions and/or characteristics of a circuit board which can be tested or verified or measured by means of the present invention are the following: at least one measurement of one or more passive values, inductance, at least one resistance, at least one capacitor, at least one impedance, continuity, at least one connection (for example at least one electrical connection portion), at least one switchover time, relay function or other buffers, at least one voltage and/or current measurement, at least one setting of at least one constant voltage and/or current generator, reading and writing of inputs and/or digital patterns, leakage measurements, at least one function of at least one digital circuit. In the context of the present document, the terms "test”, "testing” can be used interchangeably with each other. with the expression "circuit board” it can be intended a board of printed circuit type (PCB); the circuit board can include, or not include, electronic circuits. The circuit board is an interface device configured for acting as a mechanical and electrical interface between a test device or tester (ATE, i.e. Automatic Test Equipment) and a device subjected to the test (DUT, i.e. Device Under Testing); such test is different from the test that the apparatus in accordance with the invention, and the relative method, is configured to perform. The circuit board is thus configured to act as an interface in the test of a device (DUT) by means of a test device or tester (ATE). with the expressions "device to be tested” or "device subjected to the test” (DUT) or the like it is intended a device which can be subjected to a test, such as a test of one or more of its functions. By way of example, such device can be an electronic component, such as an integrated circuit, or an electronic module or the like. with the expression "mounting mask” it is intended a device (fixture) configured for mounting a circuit board at a housing. The mounting mask can be designed and/or configured for being interfaced with one or more specific types or models of circuit boards. with the expression "test device” it is intended a device (otherwise termed tester) configured for testing circuit boards, with the expression "mounting mask” it is intended a component configured for engaging a circuit board; the mounting mask can be specifically conceived as a function of the specific circuit board, e.g. of the specific topology or model of circuit board, which it is intended to engage. In the context of the present description, the expression "mounting mask” can be used interchangeably with the term "fixture”, with the expression "use conditions of the apparatus” it is intended operating conditions of the apparatus in which the apparatus tests a circuit board.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus for testing circuit boards In the enclosed figures, reference number 1 overall indicates an apparatus for testing circuit boards 100. The apparatus 1 is preferably configured for testing one circuit board 100 at a time. The apparatus 1 is adapted to test, as will be seen in more detail hereinbelow, a plurality of different circuit boards 100, preferably one at a time.

The apparatus 1 comprises a frame 2. The frame 2 defines an internal volume 3 intended to house components, such as electronic components, of the apparatus 1. The internal volume 3 can be divided, by portions of the frame, into a plurality of compartments; each compartment can be configured for housing respective components. In order to delimit the internal volume 3, the apparatus 1 can also comprise a plurality of panels 4, which are engaged with the frame 2. The frame 2 can also comprise a covering element 5 engaged at an upper portion of the frame 2. The covering element can optionally have a window 5a. As illustrated as an example in figure 1, the covering element can be in the form of a framework 5 having a hollow central portion. Figure 1 illustrates, in exploded view, an exemplifying and non-limiting embodiment of several components of the apparatus 1 .

The frame 2 also has a housing 2a, which is configured for housing a mounting mask, which will be described in the course of the present description. The housing 2a can be defined at the covering element 5. In the embodiment illustrated in figure 1, the housing is defined at the hollow central portion of the framework 5. Optionally, the apparatus 1 can also have a pocket 6, at which an adapter can be housed, which will be described hereinbelow. The accessibility to the pocket 6 can be made possible from the window 5a of the covering element 5.

The apparatus 1 comprises at least one electrical connection portion 7 (see figure 2), which can make use of at least one wire or connector or contact, such as a spring contact, in order to make the electrical connection which will be described hereinbelow.

The apparatus 1 also comprises a test device 8 (or tester). The test device 8 is configured or configurable for testing at least one circuit board 100, for example one circuit board 100 at a time. With regard to function, the test device 8 is substantially the "heart” of the apparatus 1 and comprises the necessary logic for testing circuit boards 100. The test device 8 is configured for testing or verifying or measuring at least one from among the following parameters and/or functions of a circuit board 100: at least one measurement of one or more passive values, inductance, at least one resistance, at least one capacitor, at least one impedance, continuity, at least one connection (for example at least one electrical connection portion), at least one switchover time, relay function or other buffers, at least one voltage and/or current measurement, at least one setting of at least one constant voltage and/or current generator, reading and writing of inputs and/or digital patterns, leakage measurements, at least one function of at least one digital circuit. The test device 8 is preferably of the type configured for testing electronic devices (DUT) such as electronic components or electronic modules; nevertheless, in use conditions of the apparatus 1, the test device 8 tests a circuit board (lacking DUT). In the present description, the components of the test device 8 will not be discussed in detail since they can be of known type; for example, they can comprise computers, measurement boards, etc.. The test device 8 is preferably configurable or configured for performing a self-diagnosis or self-test. The test device 8 can comprise at least one board, for example at least one circuit board and at least one electrical connection portion 7 (the electrical connection portions 7 of the apparatus 1 can be defined by the test device 8) and the self-diagnosis or self-test can be configured for testing or verifying at least one board and, additionally or as an alternative, at least one connection portion. The self-diagnosis or self-test can be managed by means of a control unit 14, which will be described hereinbelow and which can be comprised by, or integrated in, the test device 8. The possibility of performing a self-diagnosis or self-test is advantageous since it allows distinguishing a possible failure in the apparatus 1 and providing certainty regarding the possible presence of a failure to the circuit board 100. Indeed, during the test of the circuit board 100, various measurements and verifications are carried out; a failure of an internal part or component of the test device 8 could in some cases provide an incorrect outcome of the test. The self-diagnosis or self-test, which can make use of a verification of open circuit between two points of the circuit board 100, allows verifying both if the failure is present within the circuit board 100, and if the failure is present within the test device 8. The verification of open circuit, which can be carried out both with the adapter 13 and without the adapter 13, is aimed to verify that any two points of the circuit board 100 are not in short-circuit condition.

The apparatus 1 also comprises an interface kit 9. The interface kit 9 is configured for operatively connecting, in use conditions of the apparatus 1, the circuit board 100 to the test device 8; in such a manner, the interface kit 9 allows the apparatus 1 to test a circuit board 100.

The interface kit 9 comprises a mounting mask 10. The mounting mask defines an engagement portion 10a for a circuit board 100; such engagement portion 10a is configured for allowing the engagement between circuit board 100 and mounting mask 10. The engagement portion 10a is conceived and configured for allowing the engagement of a specific model of circuit board 100. In possible embodiments, the engagement portion 10a can be at least partially or completely counter-shaped or corresponding to the circuit board 100 which it is intended to house. By way of a non-limiting example, a mounting mask 10 not engaged with any circuit board 100 is illustrated in figure 3, while figure 4 shows the mounting mask 10 of figure 3, which is engaged with a circuit board 100. The mounting mask 10 is configured for being positioned at the housing 2a of the frame 2. The mounting mask 10 comprises at least one electrical connection portion 10b configured for being electrically connected, in use conditions of the apparatus 1 , with at least one respective electrical connection portion of the circuit board 100. Each electrical connection portion is configured for allowing the electrically connection of the circuit board 100 and the test device 8. The mounting mask 10 can also comprise a further electrical connection portion configured for being electrically connected, in use conditions of the apparatus 1, with the electrical connection portion of the apparatus 1 . The electrical connection portion 10b and the further electrical connection portion of the mounting mask 10 are preferably defined at surfaces of the mounting mask 10 that are opposite each other; for example, the electrical connection portion 10b can be defined at an upper surface of the mounting mask 10 (see figure 3) and the further electrical connection portion can be defined at a lower surface of the mounting mask 10. One or more electrical connection portions can make use of at least one wire or connector or contact, such as a spring contact, in order to make the above-described electrical connection. The mounting mask 10 preferably comprises an identification element configured for identifying the model and, additionally or alternatively, the function and, additionally or alternatively, a further parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100. By recognizing the circuit board 100 by means of the identification element, it is possible to select or set a suitable test program, avoiding test programs or configurations that are incorrect or not suitable for the specific circuit board 100 (specific topology or model of circuit board 100) to be tested.

The mounting mask 10 can comprise at least one constraining member 11 configured for operating between a constraining configuration in which it constrains a circuit board 100 to the engagement portion 10a (see figure 4) and a release configuration in which it does not constrain the circuit board 100 (see figure 3). Each constraining member 11 can comprise a constraining element 11a and a maneuvering element 11b operating on the constraining element 11 a. The maneuvering element 11 b is configured for operating on the constraining element 11a in order to allow the transition thereof between the release configuration and the constraining configuration and vice versa. In particular, the maneuvering element 11b is configured for tightening the constraining element 11a on the circuit board 100 in order to determine the transition thereof from the release configuration to the constraining configuration (figure 4 illustrates the tightened configuration of the constraining elements 11a) and is configured for releasing the constraining element 11a from the circuit board 100 in order to determine the transition thereof from the constraining configuration to the release configuration (figure 3 illustrates the released configuration of the constraining elements 11a). In the embodiment of figure 3, the constraining element is in the form of a small foot 11a and the maneuvering element is in the form of a rolling knob 11b; by rotating, the knob 11b can determine the aforesaid transitions between configurations. The mounting mask 10 can comprise a plurality of constraining members 11, which can be distributed perimetrically with respect to the housing; on such matter, see figure 3 and figure 4. Possible alternatives to the rolling knob can provide for, as maneuvering element 1b, a translatable tilted plane or an element operable by means of compressed air, in particular via pressure/reduced pressure of compressed air. In further variants, further alternatives can be provided for, both for the maneuvering member 11b and for the constraining element 11a. For example, at least one of the specific components forming the constraining member 11 , in detail at least one between the maneuvering member 11b and the constraining element 11a, can be selected as a function of the mounting mask 10 and of the circuit board 100 to be tested, so as to optimally constrain the circuit board 100 to the mounting mask 10.

In order to constrain the mounting mask 10 to the frame 2, the apparatus 1 can comprise a locking device 12 configured for operating between a rest configuration and an operative configuration. In the rest configuration the locking device 12 does not operate on the mounting mask 10, while in the operative configuration the locking device 12 maintains the mounting mask 10 engaged with the frame 2. The locking device 12 can comprise a locking element 12a configured for cooperating with the mounting mask 10 and configured for operating between a rest configuration and an operative configuration (corresponding to the respective configurations of the locking device 12). The locking element 12a can pass between such configurations via rotation. The locking device 12 also comprises an actuating element 12b operating on the locking element and configured for determining the transition of the locking element between the rest configuration and the operative configuration and vice versa. Figure 2 illustrates both configurations of the actuating element; in figure 2 the actuating element is in the form of a lever 12b and each locking element 12a has a substantially cylindrical body, actuatable via rotation. As an alternative to the substantially cylindrical body, each locking element 12a can have a body that is substantially flat, actuatable via translation. The body, whether it is substantially cylindrical or flat or has another shape, can have a groove at an external surface of the body. The groove can be extended obliquely, for example with respect to a symmetry axis of the body, and is configured for allowing the translation of the mounting mask 10, due to the actuation via rotation or via translation of the body, close to the housing 2a in order to determine the engagement thereof. The apparatus 1 can comprise a plurality of locking elements 12a arranged perimetrically with respect to the housing 2a; each locking element 12a is configured for cooperating with a respective portion of the mounting mask 10. The actuating element 12b can be configured for operating simultaneously on the plurality of locking elements 12a in order to determine the assumption thereof of the rest configuration or of the operative configuration. Figure 2 illustrates an exemplifying embodiment, in which the apparatus 1 comprises three locking elements 12a and the actuating element, in the form of a lever 12b, is configured for operating simultaneously on the three locking elements 12a; it is intended that, in possible variants, the number and the shape of the locking elements can vary. In figure 2, two positions of the lever 12b are illustrated, one corresponding to the operative configuration and the other corresponding to the rest configuration; the lever 12b can rotate in order to be moved between such positions.

The interface kit 9 also comprises an adapter 13. The adapter 13 is connectable to a circuit board 100 to be tested and to the test device 8. The adapter 13 is configured for being operatively interposed, in use conditions of the apparatus 1, between the circuit board 100 to be tested housed in the engagement portion 10a and the test device 8. In substance, the adapter 13 is configured for closing a circuit between the circuit board 100 and the test device 8 so as to allow testing the circuit board 100; the adapter 13 can thus be defined as a closed circuit adapter 13. Figure 7 illustrates a functional diagram in which the adapter 13 is operatively interposed between the circuit board 100 to be tested housed at the engagement portion 10a and the test device 8 and it is operatively connected thereto, as illustrated by the dashed lines represented in figure 7. In several embodiments, the adapter 13 can be housed at the pocket 6. The adapter 13 comprises at least one first electrical connection portion 13a configured for being connected with a respective electrical connection portion of the circuit board 100 and at least one second electrical connection portion 13b configured for being connected with a respective electrical connection portion of the test device 8. The first electrical connection portion 13a and the second electrical connection portion 13b are preferably defined at opposite surfaces of the adapter 13; for example, the first electrical connection portion 13a can be defined at an upper surface of the adapter 13 (see figure 6) and the second electrical connection portion 13b can be defined at a lower surface of the adapter 13 (see figure 5). One or more electrical connection portions 13a, 13b of the adapter 13 can make use of at least one wire or connector or contact, such as a spring contact, in order to make the above-described electrical connection. The adapter 13 comprises preferably an identification element configured for identifying the model and, additionally or as an alternative, the function and, additionally or as an alternative, a further parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100. By recognizing the circuit board 100 by means of the identification element, it is possible to select or set a suitable test program, avoiding programs or configurations that are incorrect or not suitable for the specific circuit board 100 to be tested.

The apparatus 1 can comprise a plurality of interface kits 9. Each mounting mask 10 of each interface kit 9 can define an engagement portion 10a that is different, for example due to shape and, additionally or as an alternative, dimensions and, additionally or as an alternative, electrical connections, from the engagement portions 10a of the respective mounting masks 10 of the other interface kits 9; in such a manner, each mounting mask 10 is configured for being engaged with a respective circuit board 100, for example with a respective model of circuit board 100. In addition to the mounting mask 10, also the adapter 13 of each interface kit 9 can be specifically configured for operating with a specific circuit board 100, for example with a specific topology or model of circuit board 100.

The apparatus 1 provided with a plurality of interface kits 9 is preferably of modular type. In substance, each interface kit 9 constitutes a module adapted to provide the apparatus 1 with modularity, and selectively engageable with the frame 2 so as to render the apparatus 1 suitable for the test of a plurality of specific circuit boards 100 (plurality of models of circuit boards 100), each of which is configured for being engaged at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10 of the respective interface kit 9. In such a manner, the apparatus 1 is configured for testing circuit boards 100 of various models and, additionally or as an alternative, of various producers. By providing for a plurality of different interface kits 9, the apparatus 1 can be of substantially multipurpose type and it can be configured for testing a high number or most or all of the circuit boards 100 available on the market.

The apparatus 1 can also comprise an interface device. The interface device can be operatively connected to the test device and, additionally or as an alternative, to the below-described control unit 14 and is configured for allowing, for example an operator (in an independent manner) to carry out or in a semi-automatic manner (i.e. in assisted mode in which the operator is guided by the interface device), at least one from among the following operations: setting of a test program (or test recipe), management of a test program, monitoring of a test, evaluation of the results of a test, generation of a report relative to the results of a test. In the embodiment in which the test device 8 allows an operator to carry out one or more operations, it substantially acts as a user interface device. Preferably, the interface device is configured for allowing an operator to dialogue at least with the test device 8. By way of example, the interface device 8 can comprise a screen such as a touch-sensitive screen (touch screen), which can be operatively connected to the test device 8 and, additionally or as an alternative, to the below-described control unit 14.

The apparatus 1 can also comprise a control unit 14. The control unit 14 is configured or configurable for managing and, additionally or as an alternative, supervising at least one test of at least one circuit board 100. In particular, the control unit 14 is configured or configurable and, additionally or as an alternative, programmed or programmable for managing a plurality of tests relative to circuit boards 100 that are different from each other; in such a manner, the apparatus 1 can be of substantially multipurpose type, in accordance with that described above. The control unit 14 is set for controlling operating conditions implemented by the test device 8 so as to test at least one circuit board 100. The control unit 14 is at least partially housed in the frame 2; in particular, the control unit 14 is housed at the internal volume 3 defined by the frame 2. The control unit 14 can be a single unit or be formed by a plurality of separate control units depending on the design selections and on the operating requirements. In the embodiments which provide for a single control unit 14, this is preferably housed at the internal volume 3 defined by the frame 2. In embodiments which provide for a plurality of separate control units 14, at least one control unit or at least one partition thereof can be housed at the internal volume defined by the frame and the other control units or partitions can be arranged outside the internal volume of the frame and/or remotely with respect to the frame. Alternatively, all the control units or partitions can be arranged remotely with respect to the frame 2.

With the expression "control unit” it is intended a component of electronic type which can comprise at least one of the following: a digital processor (CPU), a circuit of analog type, or a combination of one or more digital processors with one or more circuits of analog type. The control unit 14 can be "configured" or "programmed" in order to execute several steps (or operations) for testing of circuit boards 100: in practice this can be attained with any means that allows configuring or programming the control unit 14. For example, in case of a control unit 14 comprising one or more CPUs and one or more memories, one or more programs can be stored in suitable memory banks connected to the CPU or to the CPUs; the program or programs contain instructions which, when executed by the CPU or by the CPUs, program or configure the control unit 14 in order to execute the test of a circuit board 100. Alternatively, if the control unit 14 is or comprises circuitry of analog type, the circuit of the control unit can be designed to include circuitry configured, in use, for processing electrical signals in a manner such to execute the steps relative to the control unit.

The control unit 14 can be operatively connected with further elements or components of the apparatus, such as the interface device. When the control unit is described as "operatively connected” with at least another element or another component of the apparatus 1 , it is intended that the control unit 14 is connected thereto so as to exchange (receive and/or send) therewith at least one piece of information or at least one instruction in any form, for example in data form such as data packets. In particular, such operative connection of the control unit 14 allows the control unit 14 to control, supervise and manage the elements and the components to which it is operatively connected. The operative connection can be of wired or non-wired type.

The apparatus 1 can also comprise a control mounting mask (or verification or diagnosis or test mounting mask) comprising electrical connection portions configured for executing the electrical test of the electrical connection portions 7 of the test device 8 which, in the condition of engagement between test device 8 and mounting mask 10, allow the electrical connection between the test device 8 and the mounting mask 10.

The apparatus 1 can also comprise a control circuit board (or verification or diagnosis or test mounting mask) comprising electrical connection portions configured for executing the electrical test of the electrical connection portions 10b of the mounting mask 10 which, in the condition of engagement between mounting mask 10 and circuit board 100, allow the electrical connection between the mounting mask 10 and the circuit board 10. Use of the apparatus

The invention is also related to the use of the previously-described apparatus 1 for testing circuit boards 100. The use preferably provides for testing one circuit board 100 at a time. The use can provide for substituting interface kit 9 as a function of the model or type of circuit board 100 to be tested.

Method fortesting circuit boards

Also forming the object of the present invention is a method, for example using the apparatus 1 in accordance with the above-reported description and/or in accordance with any one of the enclosed claims.

The method provides for arranging an apparatus 1 of the above-described type. In addition to the apparatus 1, the method provides for arranging a circuit board 100 to be tested. The circuit board 100 is housed at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10. If the mounting mask 10 is not already engaged at the housing 2a of the frame 2, the method provides for positioning the mounting mask 10 at the housing 2a of the frame 2. In the event in which, however, the mounting mask 10 is already engaged at the housing 2a of the frame 2, the method provides for verifying the positioning of the mounting mask 10 at the housing 2a of the frame 2, for example so as to verify the correct positioning thereof. The step of positioning the mounting mask 10 at the housing 2a of the frame 2 can be carried out by engaging the mounting mask 10 with the frame 2 by means of the locking device 12 in accordance with that described above. The step of housing the circuit board 100 at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10 can be carried out by means of one or more constraining members 11 in accordance with that described above. The step of positioning the mounting mask 10 or verifying the positioning of the mounting mask 10 at the housing 2a of the frame 2 preferably precedes the step of housing a circuit board 100 at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10. In substance, in such embodiment, the method can provide for positioning the mounting mask 10 and subsequently housing the circuit board 100 at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10. After having housed the circuit board 100 at the engagement portion 10a of the mounting mask 10 and with the mounting mask 10 positioned at the housing 2a of the frame 2, one proceeds with closing a circuit between the circuit board 100 and the test device by means of an adapter 13 of the previously described type. The closure of the circuit provides for electrically closing the circuit; the closure of the circuit can also make use of suitable wires or connectors or contacts, such as spring contacts. The step of closing a circuit between the circuit board 100 and the test device 8 by means of an adapter 13 provides for operatively interposing the adapter 13 between the circuit board 100 and the test device 8 (see figure 7). In order to close the circuit, the method provides for connecting the adapter 13 to the circuit board 100 and to the test device 8. After having closed the circuit, the method provides for testing the circuit board 100. In substance, the test of the circuit board 100 occurs with circuit closed, and the adapter 13 is the component adapted to close such circuit (closed circuit adapter 13). The step of testing the circuit board 100 provides for at least one from among the following operations: verifying or measuring one or more functions or one or more parameters of the circuit board 100 (see the list of the previously-listed functions and parameters, testable or verifiable or measurable by means of the test device), verifying the integrity of the circuit board, verifying one or more functional characteristics of the circuit board 100, verifying one or more structural characteristics of the circuit board 100 or collecting data on the consumptions and parameters of specific components of the circuit board 100 in order to analyze the health state thereof and predict the deterioration thereof before the occurrence of the failure. Such operations can be carried at the same time as each other or at different times of the test, for example by means of a pre-established time order.

Before forming a test of a circuit board 100, the method can provide for identifying the model and, additionally or as an alternative, the function and, additionally or as an alternative, a further information or parameter of the circuit board 100. Such step can be preparatory or prerequisite for a subsequent step of setting a test program (test recipe); in substance, by recognizing the circuit board 100, the above-described identification step can allow avoiding errors in the selection of the test program. The identification step can be performed by means of the identification element of the mounting mask 10 and, additionally or as an alternative, by means of the identification element of the adapter 13 that are described above.

Before performing a test of a circuit board 100, the method can also provide for setting a test program of a circuit board 100 to be executed by the apparatus 1, for example one or more test parameters or objectives. Such step can be a function of the circuit board 100 to be tested. In addition, the step of setting a test program can be carried out by an operator, for example by means of the user interface device. Alternatively, the step of setting a test program can be performed in a semi-automatic manner, for example by means of an assisted mode. The step of setting a test program of a circuit board 100 can comprise the detection of a parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100 to be tested, for example at least one from among: the type, the model or the producer of the circuit board 100 to be tested, and the personalization of the test program based on the specific circuit board 100 detected, for example based on the specific topology or model of circuit board 100 detected. In addition, the step of setting a test program of a circuit board 100 can provide for introducing, at the input of the apparatus 100, for example by means of an interface device, the parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100 to be tested. The latter step of introducing, at the input of the apparatus 1, the parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100 to be tested is preferably comprised between the step of detecting a parameter or information characteristic of the circuit board 100 to be tested and the step of personalizing the test program based on the specific circuit board 100 detected, for example based on the specific topology or model of circuit board 100 detected.

The method can also provide for a step of performing a self-diagnosis or a self-test of the test device 8 by means of the test device 8 itself. The step of self-diagnosis or self-test can provide for testing or verifying at least one board, e.g. a circuit board, and, additionally or as an alternative, at least one connection portion, for example an electrical connection portion, of the test device 8.

The method can provide for a plurality of test cycles, each of which aimed to test a respective circuit board 100; for example, the method can provide for a first test cycle and, subsequently, a second test cycle. If the model of circuit board 100 to be tested is the same between first test cycle and second test cycle, the method can provide for using the same interface kit 9 for both test cycles. If however the first test cycle operates on a first circuit board and the second test cycle operates on a second circuit board, for example different from the first circuit board by model or type or dimensions or producer, the method can provide for substituting the interface kit. The step of substituting the interface kit 9 is a function of the model or type of the second circuit board 100 to be tested.

The method can also provide for managing a test program during the execution by the apparatus 1. The test program can be the same or it can be different for a certain number of test cycles. The method can provide for monitoring the test of the circuit board 100 executed by the apparatus 1. Optionally, the method can provide for, for example at the end of a test cycle, a step of evaluating the results of the test of the circuit board 100 executed by the apparatus 1. Finally, the method can provide for generating a report relative to the results of the test. The report can be generated at the end of a test cycle.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

The present invention allows testing circuit boards 100 in a simple and effective manner.

The invention allows testing circuit boards 100 without having to employ a highly qualified professional figure, as is instead necessary for the technical solution pursuant to the above-described prior art, which provides for stopping the production and for the verification of the circuit board by a highly qualified professional figure.

A further advantage of the invention is tied to the fact that the test carried out by means of the apparatus 1 and the method in accordance with the invention is unrelated to the presence of electronic devices (DUT) out of consideration. In substance, the circuit board 100 that is tested has dedicated seats for housing an electronic device (DUT) such as an electronic module or an electronic component (e.g. an integrated circuit); nevertheless, for testing the circuit board 100 it is not necessary to house any electronic component at the seats and therefore, during the test, no electronic component is housed in the respective seats. In such a manner, the invention advantageously allows testing the "naked” circuit board; in other words, the invention allows testing a circuit board 100 without having to recur to or use electronic devices (DUT).

In addition, the invention allows testing circuit boards 100 without having to stop the production of the electronic devices (DUT); for example, the test of the circuit boards 100 can be carried out before their use in production. In such a manner, the invention allows not slowing the production (since during production it is not necessary to carry out activities of verification of the circuit board 100, such as debugging) and it allows minimizing the interruptions thereof (if present, the interruptions would only be due to fail conditions of the electronic devices, which are not related to the circuit board 100). In such a manner, the invention allows maintaining a high production rhythm, with the consequent benefits regarding production capacity and cost.

The above-described advantages are shared by the apparatus 1 for testing circuit boards, by the use of such apparatus 1 and by the method for testing circuit boards.

A further advantage of the invention is the following: given that the apparatus 1 is configured or configurable for testing a plurality of different circuit boards 100, the apparatus 1 is of modular type and is therefore provided with considerable flexibility of use, and can be, in accordance with that described above, substantially multipurpose.

Finally, the invention allows testing a circuit board (100) both in conditions in which it is electrically power supplied, and in conditions in which it is not electrically power supplied.