Abstract:
A modular system interface is provided. The apparatus includes a main panel that is configured to be attached to a rack and includes a plurality of cut-outs. A plurality of sub-panels are configured to be attachable to the main panel, spanning across the respective cut-out. Each sub-panel supports one predetermined type of connector. The present invention can also be viewed as a method for providing a modular system interface. In this regard, the method can be broadly summarized by the steps of providing a main panel configured to be attachable to a rack and including a plurality of cut-outs. The method includes providing a plurality of sub-panels configured to be attachable to the main panel across a respective the cut-out, wherein each sub-panel supports a predetermined type of connector.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention is generally related to test system equipment, and more particularly, to a test system modular system interface. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Currently, there are several off-the-shelf mass interconnect systems that are available for use with test systems. Such interconnect systems typically allow multiple signal conduits of varying types to be connected at the same time with a single actuation. Consequently, they allow for quick change-over from one fixture to another and customization between particular applications. However, the mass inter-connectors currently available are generally too expensive for the low-cost test systems used with high volume manufacturing processes. These low-cost systems usually resort to a system interface that consists of a single panel punched with holes for each connector needed. Such interfaces lack flexibility in terms of redefining and labeling future system resources. It is also difficult to separate the interface from the test system for diagnostics, reconfiguration, repair or maintenance. Moreover, a number of equipment manufacturers including, but not limited to, cell phones manufacturers, need to be able to reuse their test systems for multiple equipment models and test stages in order to keep asset utilization high. Test systems, because of equipment model changes, often need to be reconfigured or upgraded to increase the test system utilization. 
     Thus, a heretofore unaddressed need exists in the industry to address the aforementioned deficiencies and inadequacies. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides an apparatus and method for providing a modular system interface. The apparatus utilizes a main panel that is configured to be attachable to a rack and includes at least one sub-panel slot. At least one sub-panel is configured to be attachable to the main panel through the sub-panel slot, and the at least one sub-panel supports a predetermined connector. 
     Briefly described, in architecture, one embodiment of the system, among others, can be implemented as follows. The apparatus utilizes a main panel that is configured to be attachable to a rack and includes at least one sub-panel slot. At least one sub-panel is configured to be attachable to the main panel through the sub-panel slot, and the at least one sub-panel supports a predetermined connector. 
     The present invention can also be viewed as providing methods for providing a method for a modular system interface. In this regard, one embodiment of such a method, among others, can be broadly summarized by the following steps: (1) providing a main panel configured to be attachable to a rack and including at least one sub-panel slot, and (2) providing at least one sub-panel configured to be attachable to the main panel in the sub-panel slot, wherein the at least one sub-panel supports a predetermined connector. 
     Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. 
     FIG. 1 is a front view of a rack-type test system utilizing the system interface panel of the present invention. 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one example of the modular system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIG.  1 . 
     FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one example of a dual DB 9  connector sub-panel assembly that can be utilized with the system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one example of a DB 15  connector sub-panel assembly that can be utilized by the system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one example of a DB 25  connector sub-panel assembly that can be utilized with the system interface, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one example of DB 37  connector sub-panel assembly that can be utilized in connection with the system interface of the present, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one example of a double-height connector sub-panel assembly that can be utilized with the system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one example of a single filler panel that can be utilized with the system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. 
     FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one example of a dual filler panel that can be utilized with the system interface of the present invention, as shown in FIGS.  1  and  2 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The system interfaces are typically used to interface a test system with a large variety of testable equipment. Primarily, the system interface allows multiple fixtures to be attached to the test system so that numerous different devices can be tested utilizing the same test system. A system interface also allows a system to be easily separated from the fixture in order to perform diagnostics, repair or maintenance. 
     In particular, cell phone manufacturers have a need to be able to reuse equipment for multiple different phone types in numerous test stages in order to fully utilize the test system. Test systems often need to be reconfigured or upgraded in order to enable a testing technician to perform testing on a variety of devices. The system interface of the present invention facilitates this need by providing a flexible system interface that can be quickly and cost-effectively changed as needed. In addition, the modular system interface of the present invention consumes a minimal amount of rack space on a test system rack. The system interface of the present invention has flexibility to allow interfacing to a large variety of devices and allows the test system to be changed whenever the testing requirements change. This allows customers to more easily reuse the test system in various stages of a manufacturing process or to increase the test system&#39;s capabilities. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the modular system interface of the present invention utilizes common D-sub style connectors, which are readily available around the world and are inexpensive. However, it is contemplated by the inventors that any number of other connectors could be utilized. For purposes of illustration, the following disclosure will discuss the applicability of D-sub style connectors, however, it is understood that different types of connectors could be utilized. 
     The modular system interface of the present invention provides for the ability to replace worn-out connectors as needed. Serviceability is improved in that the connectors can be replaced by only removing the minimum amount of hardware. In the examples discussed in this disclosure, the utilization of D-sub style connectors enables the placement of connectors by removing only two screws. Labeling of these connectors can also be accomplished using adhesive Mylar or polycarbonate labels attached to the subpanels, which are more durable than any prior art type of labeling systems. 
     The modular system interface of the present invention consists of a main panel and a variety of sub-panels made of sheet metal. However, it is contemplated by the inventors that other types of material such as fiberglass, plastic, or glass can be utilized. The main panel mounts in a standard 19-inch rack and is preferably a single rack-unit tall. In the preferred embodiment, the main panel contains up to eight locations for mounting smaller sub-panel assemblies in a space that is a single rack-unit tall. It is contemplated by the inventor that there can be any number of subpanel locations depending on the rack size and the size of the sub-panels. 
     Each sub-panel contains a cutout used to mount a connector for access to a particular system resource or instrument. The sub-panels are then attached to the main panel using two screws that mate with captive nuts in the main panel. It is also contemplated by the inventors that numerous other types of attaching means can be utilized, such as clips, snaps, ¼-turn fasteners, and the like. 
     Each connector can be labeled with a durable, adhesive, Mylar-type label that is affixed to the sub-panel. Having labels that are separate from the subpanel allows more system flexibility than painting and silk-screening the subpanel. Larger, double-wide sub-panels can be used for mounting larger connectors that will not fit into a single sub-panel. It is also possible to use the double-wide sub-panels to contain predetermined groups of connectors. Sub-panels can also be utilized to cover unused sub-panel locations on the main panel. A detailed explanation of the modular system interface of the present invention and sub-panels will herein be described with regard to FIGS. 2-10. 
     Illustrated in FIG. 1 is an example of a test system utilizing the modular system interface of the present invention. Typically, rack-test systems follow the E.I.A. (Electronic Industries Association or EIA) “19 inch” rules in order to provide a structure that can accept standard-size test equipment, such as oscilloscopes, display panels, keyboard trays, data storage, and the like. The rack structure provides an entire structure that is strong and sturdy that provides for quick and easy connection of multiple type of electronic devices for operation in the rack. The racks complying with the international EIA 19-inch standard utilize a universal system for indicating the number of units that can fit into the racks, such as, but not limited to, 4U, 6U, 10U and up. Vertical space within the rack is measured in modular units, where one rack unit is 1.75 in high. The total width of the main panel  31  is 19 inches and the hole-to-hole spacing of the main panel is 18.3 as defined by the EIA standard. These racks contain a variety of test equipment and interconnects normally requiring cable interfaces to enable a user to connect to equipment in the rack. 
     One problem with this configuration is that the number of cables, connection panels and equipment used in the rack can limit the ability of the test system to work with other hardware, thus affecting the system&#39;s capacity, upgrade ability, cost and usability. However, utilizing a standardized test system based on an EIA 19-inch rack can consume too much space to connect a wide variety of devices to the test system. Thus, with the limited amount of rack space, these interconnects can consume a disproportionate amount of limited space. 
     The modular system interface of the present invention solves this problem by providing for a modular system that allows for the flexibility to utilize a large number of connector interfaces that can be reconfigured in a short amount of time. In the preferred embodiment, the modular system interface of the present invention only consumes two rack units of vertical space, thus reducing the amount of space available for other test equipment. Doing this provides for the ability to provide modularity, to add or delete system components or interfaces, and to use common or low-cost connectors that are readily available anywhere in the world. 
     Illustrated in FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example of a main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention. The modular system interface  30  of the present invention comprises a number of bolt-in sub-panels that will allow almost any type of connector to be mounted in the main panel  31  for access to standard and custom fixture resources. The sub-panels will allow for resource expansion if input/output requirements change. Unused cut-out 37 spaces can be covered utilizing a filler sub-panel. A feed-through hole  36  is also present in the main panel  31  to provide for easy pass-through of cables that cannot utilize a standardized connector in the sub-panel assembly. 
     As shown, the modular system interface panel  30  has a main panel  31  that includes top lip  32 , side lip  33  and bottom lip  34  for support. Also contained with the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 , are cutouts  37  to allow for sub-panel attachment. Receptacles  35  are threaded material that can be threaded within the main panel  31  or thread structures attached to main panel  31 , or other type of attachment means. The main panel  31  includes attachment means  39  to attach the modular system interface to the standard E.I.A. 19-inch rack. 
     Illustrated in FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a dual DB 9  connector sub-panel assembly  50 . The dual DB 9  connector sub-panel assembly  50  consists of a dual DB 9  sub-panel  51  that includes a cut-out for the two DB 9  connectors  52 . Illustrated is a male connector, however, it is contemplated by the inventors that any type of DB 9  connector, male or female, may be used. In order to attach the DB 9  connector  52  to the dual DB 9  sub-panel  51 , a locking or anti-rotation washer  53 , hexnut  54  and jack screw  55  are utilized. The screw  55  is inserted into the dual DB 9  sub-panel  51  through a support hole in the DB 9  connector  52  to enable the washer  53  and hexout  54  to be fastened to the screw  55 . The dual DB 9  sub-panel assembly  50  is then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  59 . The attaching means  59  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the dual DB 9  sub-panel assembly  50  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example of a DB 15  sub-panel assembly  60  to be utilized with the modular system interface  30  of the present invention. The DB 15  sub-panel assembly  60  is comprised of a DB 15  sub-panel  61  that has a cut-through for a DB 15  connector  62 . The DB 15  connector  62  is attached to the DB 15  sub-panel  61  utilizing washer  63 , hexnut  64  and screw  65 . The DB 15  sub-panel assembly  60  is then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  69 . The attaching means  69  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the DB 15  sub-panel assembly  60  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a DB 25  sub-panel assembly  70  to be utilized with the modular system interface  30  of the present invention. The DB 25 , sub-panel assembly  70  is comprised of a DB 25  sub-panel  71  that has a cut-through for a DB 25  connector  72 . The DB 25  connector  72  is attached to the DB 25  sub-panel  71  utilizing washer  73 , hexnut  74  and screw  75 . The DB 25  sub-panel assembly  70  is then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  79 . The attaching means  79  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the DB 25  sub-panel assembly  70  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example of a DB 37  sub-panel assembly  80  to be utilized with the modular system interface  30  of the present invention. The DB 37 , sub-panel assembly  80  is comprised of a DB 37  sub-panel  81  that has a cut-through for a DB 37  connector  82 . The DB 37  connector  82  is attached to the DB 37  sub-panel  81  utilizing washer  83 , hexnut  84  and screw  85 . The DB 37  sub-panel assembly  80  is then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  89 . The attaching means  89  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the DB 37  sub-panel assembly  80  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     Illustrated in FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example of a 4 BNC sub-panel assembly  90 . The example of the 4 BNC sub-panel assembly  90  includes a 4 BNC sub-panel  91  with four cut-outs for accepting a BNC connector  92 . The BNC connector  92  is attached to the 4 BNC sub-panel  91  utilizing washers  93  and hexnuts  94 . The 4 BNC sub-panel assembly  90  is connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  and utilizes two vertically adjacent sub-panel cutouts  37  (FIG. 2) on the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . The 4 BNC sub-panel assembly  90  is then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  99 . The attaching means  99  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the 4 BNC sub-panel assembly  90  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     Illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 are a perspective view of an example of a single sub-panel filler  100  and dual filler sub-panel  110 . These filler sub-panels  100  and  110  enable a user to cover unused sub-panel cutouts  37  on the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . The single sub-panel filler  100  and dual filler sub-panel  110  are then connected to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30  of the present invention, utilizing the attaching means  109  and  119 . The attaching means  109  and  119  may be a hole for a screw, snap-clip or other type of attaching means to enable the filler sub-panels  100  and  110  to be attached to the main panel  31  of the modular system interface  30 . 
     It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that dual sub-panels can be comprised of any combination of connector types, such as, but not limited to, a 4 DB 9  connector sub-panel, a DB 9  and DB 15  connector combination, and the like. The inventors contemplate that any number of combinations can be utilized by the modular system interface  30 . 
     It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present invention, particularly, any “preferred” embodiments, are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) of the invention without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the invention. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and the present invention and protected by the following claims.