DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic testing systems and, more particularly, relates to a complete functional testing of inverter, UPS, solar, and EV parameters using PCB testing jig.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described below. This disclosure is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not just as admissions of prior art.
[0003] Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) form the foundation of modern electronic devices, and as the complexity of these devices continues to increase, the demand for high-quality PCBs is also on the rise. The global PCB market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% from 2021 to 2028, reaching $89.7 billion by 2028. This growth is mainly driven by the increasing demand for consumer electronics, automotive electronics, and communication equipment.
[0004] Traditionally, PCB testing was done manually, which was time-consuming, expensive, and error-prone. Manual testing could not identify specific failures or defects that may have occurred during the manufacturing process, which could cause problems in the future. According to a Frost & Sullivan study, manual testing methods account for 60-70% of all defects in the manufacturing process, leading to significant losses for manufacturers.
[0005] To overcome these issues, automated testing systems were developed that could test PCBs for various parameters and identify specific defects or failures. The market for automated PCB testing systems is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028, reaching $2.5 billion by 2028. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for high-quality PCBs and the need for faster, more efficient, and cost-effective testing methods.
[0006] However, there is a need for a reliable and comprehensive method to test the functional parameters of electronic equipment such as inverters, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), solar panels, and electric vehicles. These equipments commonly use printed circuit boards (PCBs), and ensuring the reliability of the PCBs is crucial for their proper functioning.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present disclosure relates to a novel Printed Circuit Board (PCB) testing jig designed to perform complete function testing of uninterruptible power supply (UPS), Solar, and electric vehicle (EV) parameters.
[0008] In an embodiment, the PCB tester can be connected to a transformer, load, and battery for testing the functional parameters of these equipments and assessing the reliability of the PCB.
[0009] In an embodiment, the jig is equipped with various test equipments such as solar stimulator and battery stimulator, which can be used to automatically test the different parameters. This ensures that the PCB is tested for all functional test parameters, such as low battery, high battery output voltage on different battery voltages, and load conditions overload and short circuit accuracy, low cut and high cut on the mains mode.
[00010] Optionally, the solar parameters, including MPPT efficiency and other parameters in the validation sheet, can also be tested.
[00011] In an embodiment, after the testing, the results of these parameters are uploaded on the cloud, and various parameters can be analyzed using AI-based tools. This data is also integrated with the computer-readable medium (CRM) for future analytics based on the complaints data analytics.
[00012] In one aspect of the invention, a printed circuit board (PCB) testing system comprising a plurality of test points (TPs) and a microcontroller to test the PCBs, wherein the PCB testing system is configured to: determine a type of electronic device connected for testing; select one or more functional test parameters based on the determined electronic device; test the electronic device for the selected parameters; and output a signal indicating the test output.
[00013] Optionally, one or more functional test parameters include any of: low battery, high battery output voltage on different battery voltages, and load conditions overload and short circuit accuracy, low cut and high cut on the mains mode.
[00014] Optionally, wherein the system further comprises testing the solar parameters, including MPPT efficiency and other parameters of the electronic device.
[00015] Optionally, wherein the system further comprises uploading the results of these parameters on the cloud, and analysing various parameters using AI-based tools.
[00016] Optionally, wherein the PCB system is further configured to integrate with the computer-readable medium (CRM) for future analytics based on the complaints data analytics.
[00017] Optionally, wherein the electronic device is any of inverter, UPS, solar, and EV parameters.
[00018] In summary, the present disclosure introduces a PCB testing jig equipped with various test equipments to automatically test the functional parameters of the equipments and upload the results on the cloud for further analysis using AI-based tools. This comprehensive method ensures the reliability and performance of the electronic equipments, providing a solution to the problem of assessing their functional parameters.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00019] To further clarify advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings in which:
[00020] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of the PCB testing system or electronic device testing system according to an embodiment of this application;
[00021] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the PCB testing system connected to an electronic device for testing in an embodiment of this application;
[00022] Figure 3 illustrates a visual representation of the test results generated by the PCB testing system; and
[00023] Figure 4 the operating mode of the electronic device including mains mode, invertor mode, low cut, and high cut.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00024] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[00025] Reference throughout this specification to “an embodiment”, “another embodiment”, “an implementation”, “another implementation” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, “in one implementation”, “in another implementation”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[00026] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures proceeded by “comprises a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures.
[00027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The apparatus, system, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
[00028] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the term sterile barrier and sterile adapter denotes the same meaning and may be used interchangeably throughout the description.
[00029] This disclosure presents a printed circuit board (PCB) testing jig/system which is an essential tool used to test the complete functional parameters of various products like inverter, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), solar, and electric vehicle (EV) parameters. It helps to test the reliability of the PCB by attaching the transformer, load, and battery connected to the PCB tester and analyzing the functional parameters of these equipment.
[00030] The PCB testing jig comes with various test equipment like solar stimulator and battery stimulator that are used to test the various parameters automatically. The objective is to test the PCB for all the functional test parameters, such as low battery, high battery output voltage on different battery voltages, load conditions overload and short circuit accuracy, low cut, and high cut on the mains mode.
[00031] Similarly, solar parameters like maximum power point tracking (MPPT) efficiency and various other parameters attached to the validation sheet can be tested using the PCB testing jig. Once the testing is complete, these parameters are uploaded on the cloud for further analysis using artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools. The data is also integrated with the computer-readable medium (CRM) for future analytics based on the complaints data analytics.
[00032] The PCB testing jig is a critical tool used to test the reliability of the PCB, ensuring that the final product is of high quality and meets the customer’s expectations. In today’s world, where the competition is high, and the customers have become more demanding, it is essential to have a robust testing mechanism to ensure the quality of the product.
[00033] One of the primary advantages of the PCB testing jig is that it tests the complete functional parameters of the product. It ensures that all the components are working correctly and are integrated to provide the desired output. The PCB testing jig can test various equipment like UPS, solar, and EV parameters, making it a versatile tool for testing different products.
[00034] Another advantage of the PCB testing jig is that it comes with various test equipment that can test the parameters automatically. This saves a lot of time and effort, making the testing process more efficient. The PCB testing jig can test various parameters like low battery, high battery output voltage, load conditions overload, and short circuit accuracy, making it a comprehensive testing tool.
[00035] The use of AI-based tools to analyze the data obtained from the testing process is another advantage of the PCB testing jig. The data obtained from the testing process can be used to optimize the product's design and improve its functionality. The data can also be used to identify any flaws in the design and rectify them before the product is released in the market.
[00036] The integration of the data with the CRM is another advantage of the PCB testing jig. The data obtained from the testing process can be used to improve customer satisfaction by identifying and addressing any issues that the customers might face. The data can also be used to improve the product's design, making it more appealing to the customers.
[00037] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of the PCB testing system or electronic device testing system according to an embodiment of this application and Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the PCB testing system connected to an electronic device for testing in an embodiment of this application. In Figure 1, a schematic diagram of the PCB testing system or electronic device testing system is presented, showcasing the fundamental components and their interconnections in a simplified visual format. This schematic typically includes various elements such as the microcontroller, test points (TPs), connectors, power sources, and any additional circuitry necessary for the testing process. Each component is represented by symbols or icons, allowing for a clear understanding of how they are organized and interact within the system. For instance, the microcontroller might be depicted as a central processing unit, while the test points could be illustrated as nodes connected to different sections of the PCB being tested. Additionally, power sources and connectors might be represented to demonstrate how they supply power and facilitate communication between the system and the electronic device under test. Figure 1 serves as a foundational reference for understanding the basic architecture and layout of the PCB testing system, providing insights into its functionality and operation.
[00038] In Figure 2, a block diagram of the PCB testing system connected to an electronic device for testing is presented, offering a higher-level abstraction of the system's operation and its interaction with the electronic device being evaluated. This diagram typically highlights the key functional blocks or modules within the testing system and illustrates how they are interconnected to the electronic device under test. For instance, it might delineate distinct blocks for signal processing, data acquisition, control logic, and communication interfaces. Additionally, it illustrates the connections between the testing system and the electronic device, indicating how signals are transmitted for testing and how feedback or control signals are exchanged between the two entities. This block diagram provides a conceptual overview of the testing process, allowing stakeholders to grasp the system's overall architecture and the flow of information during testing. It serves as a valuable tool for understanding the system's functionality and for identifying potential areas of optimization or enhancement in the testing process. Overall, Figures 1 and 2 complement each other by providing both detailed and high-level perspectives on the PCB testing system, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of its design and operation.
[00039] In an aspect of the invention, the PCB testing jig serves as a pivotal component in the quality assurance process, equipped with a myriad of sophisticated test equipment such as solar stimulators and battery stimulators. These instruments are meticulously designed to automatically evaluate diverse parameters inherent to the printed circuit board (PCB). Among the primary objectives is the meticulous examination of functional test parameters including, but not limited to, scrutinizing battery conditions such as low and high battery outputs across varying voltage ranges, load conditions encompassing overload and short circuit accuracies, as well as assessing low and high cut-offs in mains mode.
[00040] Moreover, the capabilities of the PCB testing jig extend beyond the realm of battery dynamics to encompass solar parameters, including the critical evaluation of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) efficiency alongside a host of other pertinent metrics delineated within the validation sheet. Following the comprehensive testing regime, wherein every facet of the PCB's functionality is rigorously assessed, the resultant data is meticulously uploaded onto cloud servers for further scrutiny leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools. Furthermore, this data is seamlessly integrated with Computer-Readable Mediums (CRM) facilitating future analytics endeavors, thereby ensuring continual improvement based on insights gleaned from both testing outcomes and customer feedback.
[00041] Undoubtedly, the PCB testing jig stands as an indispensable tool in the pursuit of product reliability and quality assurance. In an era characterized by heightened competition and increasingly discerning customers, the significance of a robust testing mechanism cannot be overstated. The PCB testing jig plays a pivotal role in this context, serving as a linchpin in ensuring that the final product not only meets but exceeds customer expectations.
[00042] The versatility of the PCB testing jig emerges as one of its primary advantages. Capable of scrutinizing an array of equipment encompassing Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), solar installations, and Electric Vehicles (EV), it serves as an indispensable asset for testing a diverse range of products. By comprehensively evaluating functional parameters, it instills confidence in the integrity of the assembled components, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance across varied applications.
[00043] Furthermore, the automation embedded within the PCB testing jig streamlines the testing process significantly. By automating parameter evaluation, including critical assessments such as battery voltage thresholds, load conditions, and short circuit accuracies, it not only enhances efficiency but also minimizes human error. This automation not only expedites the testing phase but also facilitates scalability, enabling manufacturers to meet stringent production deadlines without compromising on quality assurance standards.
[00044] In Figure 3, a visual representation of the test results generated by the PCB testing system is depicted, offering a comprehensive overview of the device's performance. This visual representation could include graphs, charts, or other graphical elements that display various parameters tested by the system. For instance, it might illustrate voltage levels, current flow, or efficiency measurements across different test scenarios. These visual representations are invaluable for technicians and engineers, providing a clear understanding of the device's behavior under different conditions and aiding in the identification of any anomalies or areas for improvement.
[00045] Figure 4 provides insight into the operating modes of the electronic device, presenting a detailed depiction of its functionality under different settings. This includes key modes such as mains mode, invertor mode, as well as low cut and high cut operations. Each mode is crucial for understanding how the device operates in different environments or situations. For example, mains mode signifies the device's behavior when connected to the main power grid, while invertor mode indicates its functioning when operating independently of the grid, often relying on stored power sources like batteries. Additionally, the low cut and high cut modes represent thresholds for voltage levels, delineating when the device activates or deactivates certain functions based on voltage fluctuations. Understanding these operational modes is essential for ensuring proper utilization of the device and diagnosing any operational issues that may arise. Overall, Figures 3 and 4 serve as vital visual aids in comprehending the test results and operational characteristics of the electronic device evaluated by the PCB testing system.
[00046] In an embodiment, the printed circuit board (PCB) testing system described incorporates several components to efficiently assess electronic devices. Central to this system are a multitude of test points (TPs) and a microcontroller, essential for conducting the PCB testing process. Initially, the system identifies the type of electronic device connected for testing, a crucial step in tailoring subsequent assessments.
[00047] Once determined, the system selects specific functional test parameters relevant to the identified electronic device, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. These parameters may vary widely, encompassing factors such as low and high battery output voltage across different battery voltages, load conditions such as overload and short circuit accuracy, as well as low cut and high cut considerations in mains mode.
[00048] Additionally, the system can extend its testing capabilities to include solar parameters, such as Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) efficiency, and other pertinent aspects of the electronic device. Furthermore, the system is designed to seamlessly upload test results to the cloud, enabling further analysis through AI-based tools. Integration with computer-readable media (CRM) facilitates future analytics, leveraging complaint data for continuous improvement. Notably, the electronic devices subject to testing encompass a range of categories, including inverters, Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), solar systems, and Electric Vehicles (EVs), reflecting the system's versatility.
[00049] To execute tests effectively, the system employs various test equipment, including stimulators and battery stimulators, which automate the assessment process. Overall, this comprehensive PCB testing system streamlines the evaluation of electronic devices, ensuring functionality and reliability across diverse applications.
[00050] Overall, the PCB testing jig is an essential tool used to test the complete functional parameters of various products like inverter, UPS, solar, and EV parameters. It comes with various test equipment that can test the parameters automatically, making the testing process more efficient. The data obtained from the testing process is uploaded on the cloud and analyzed using AI-based tools, making it possible to optimize the product's design and improve its functionality. The data is also integrated with the CRM, making it possible to improve customer satisfaction by identifying and addressing any issues that the customers might face.
[00051] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.
[0001] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the apparatus in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A printed circuit board (PCB) testing system comprising a plurality of test points (TPs) and a microcontroller to test the PCBs, wherein the PCB testing system is configured to:
determine a type of electronic device connected for testing;
select one or more functional test parameters based on the determined electronic device;
test the electronic device for the selected parameters; and
output a signal indicating the test output.

2. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein one or more functional test parameters include any of: low battery, high battery output voltage on different battery voltages, and load conditions overload and short circuit accuracy, low cut and high cut on the mains mode.

3. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the system further comprises testing the solar parameters, including MPPT efficiency and other parameters of the electronic device.

4. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the system further comprises uploading the results of these parameters on the cloud, and analysing various parameters using AI-based tools.

5. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the PCB system is further configured to integrate with the computer-readable medium (CRM) for future analytics based on the complaints data analytics.

6. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the electronic device is any of inverter, UPS, solar, and EV parameters.

7. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the system is configured to test the electronic device by attaching the transformer, load, and battery connected to the PCB tester and analyse the functional parameters of these electronic device.

8. The PCB testing system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the system comprises various test equipment including stimulator and battery stimulator that are used to test the various parameters automatically.