PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9702741-B2
Application Number: US-201414491927-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: In store display calibration system

Abstract:
A test fixture used to calibrate an electronic device is disclosed. The test fixture includes several modules positioned on a rack. The modules may include either a stimulus member or light-absorbing material. An actuator connected to an end unit is configured to engage any one of the several modules and transport the module from the rack to a location over the electronic device. At least one module can calibrate a touch sensor of the electronic device, while at least another module can calibrate a proximity sensor of the electronic device. In some cases, an additional module is configured to calibrate a touch sensor of a second electronic device, such as a previous generation of an electronic device or an electronic device having a different dimension. The electronic device can lie on a cradle that may be identified by a feature on the cradle, such as a magnet.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A system for calibrating one or more electronic devices, the system comprising:
 a first module that calibrates a first component of an electronic device, the first module comprising:
 first end having a stimulus member: 
 second end opposite the first end, the second end having a magnetically attractable member; and 
 a bracket formed from a metallic material, the bracket electrically connected to the stimulus member; 
 
 a second module that calibrates a second component of the electronic device, the second module comprising:
 a first end having a material capable of absorbing infrared light; and 
 a second end opposite the first end, the second end having a magnetically attractable member; 
 
 a sensor; 
 a cradle that receives the electronic device, the cradle comprising an element detected by the sensor to identify the cradle; and 
 an end unit attached to an actuator, wherein the end unit and the actuator move the first module from a first position to a second position, wherein the second position is proximate to the electronic device. 
 
     
     
       2. The system of  claim 1 , further comprising
 a rack, wherein the rack holds the first module and the second module, the rack further comprising a lock that prohibits the first module and the second module from movement by the end unit and the actuator. 
 
     
     
       3. The system of  claim 2  further, comprising a connector, wherein the connector is capable of electrically connecting to the electronic device. 
     
     
       4. The system of  claim 3 , the end unit further comprising an electrically conductive element, wherein the connector and the stimulus member have a common electrical ground when the electrically conductive element engages the bracket, and wherein the actuator electrically grounded to a second electrical ground different from the common electrical ground. 
     
     
       5. The system of  claim 4 , wherein the electrically conductive element is a pin. 
     
     
       6. The system of  claim 1 , the cradle further comprising a plurality of protrusions, wherein the plurality of protrusion comprises a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion having a height less than a height of the electronic device. 
     
     
       7. The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a second rack, the second rack comprising a third module and a fourth module. 
     
     
       8. The system of  claim 7 , wherein the cradle is capable of being removed and replaced by a second cradle configured to receive a second electronic device different from the electronic device, and wherein the end unit and the actuator move the third module from a third position to a fourth position. 
     
     
       9. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the:
 the first component is a touch sensor of the electronic device, 
 the second component is a proximity sensor of the electronic device, and 
 the stimulus member comprises a conductive rubber. 
 
     
     
       10. A system for calibrating electronic devices, the system comprising:
 a rack that holds a module, the module including:
 a plate that includes a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening, 
 a first block; 
 a second block engaged with the first block; 
 a stimulus member engaged with the second block; 
 a bracket engaged with the stimulus member; and 
 a block formed from a magnetically attractable material; and 
 
 an end unit including:
 a surface that engages the plate; 
 a first pin configured to pass through the first opening and engage the bracket; 
 a second pin configured to pass through the second opening to align the module with the end unit; and 
 a magnet that engages the block formed from the magnetically attractable material. 
 
 
     
     
       11. The system of  claim 10 , further comprising a second rack that includes a second module, wherein the module of the rack calibrates a sensor of a first electronic device, and the second module of the second rack calibrates a sensor of a second electronic device. 
     
     
       12. The system of  claim 10 , the rack comprising a lock that regulates the module from being removed from the rack via the end unit. 
     
     
       13. The system of  claim 12 , wherein the lock comprises a lock door and a rack knob, the rack knob configured to actuate the lock door. 
     
     
       14. The system of  claim 10 , further comprising a cradle that receives an electronic device. 
     
     
       15. The system of  claim 14 , the cradle comprising a protrusion that aligns the electronic device, wherein the protrusion includes a height less than a height of the electronic device. 
     
     
       16. A system for calibrating sensors in electronic devices, the system comprising:
 a first rack having a first plurality of modules, the first plurality of modules comprising:
 a first module having a first stimulus member formed from a conductive rubber; and 
 a second module having a second stimulus member formed from a material selected from gray paper and flock paper; 
 
 a second rack having a second plurality of modules, the second plurality of modules comprising a third module having a dimension greater than a dimension of the first module and greater than a dimension of the second module; and 
 an end unit capable of transporting any one of the first module, the second module, and the third module to a cradle; 
 wherein:
 the first plurality of modules calibrate a first electronic device, and 
 the second plurality of modules calibrate a second electronic device different from the first electronic device. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The system of  claim 16 , further comprising a second cradle that receives the second electronic device when the cradle is removed. 
     
     
       18. The system of  claim 17 , wherein the cradle includes a first plurality of magnets to form a magnetic polarity in a first configuration, and wherein the second cradle includes a second plurality of magnets to form a magnetic polarity in a second configuration different from the first configuration. 
     
     
       19. The system of  claim 18 , further comprising a first sensor and second sensor, the first sensor and the second sensor capable of detecting the magnetic polarity in the first configuration and the magnetic polarity in the second configuration. 
     
     
       20. The system of  claim 16 , the end unit further comprising a pin formed from an electrically conductive material, and the first module comprising a bracket formed from an electrically conductive material, the bracket engaged with the first stimulus member.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to a test fixture for electronic devices. In particular, the present embodiments relate to a test fixture that calibrates an electronic device having replacement part in order to restore the electronic device to the original factory settings. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Tests fixtures may be used to configure or calibrate an electronic device to include desired settings or parameters. This equipment is useful when replacement parts are installed on the device and need to be configured. Alternatively, the test fixture may be used to restore the device to the original factory settings. 
     However, traditional test fixtures include several drawbacks. For instance, test fixtures are designed to configure or calibrating a particular electronic device. A “particular” device includes a specific generation of a device, or a specific size of a device. As a result, when, for example, a next generation of a device is released, the current test fixture is incapable of calibrating the device. Also, traditional test fixtures include multiple housings. Each housing may include multiple moving parts configured to calibrate a particular component of the device. As a result, a single device having multiple components requires placing the device into a first housing, calibrating the device, removing the device, and then placing the device into a second housing. This adds complexity and time to the process. Further, traditional test fixtures may include parts actuated by an air compressor which, in additional to multiple housings, increases the overall footprint of the test fixture. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a system for calibrating electronic devices is described. The system may include a first module that calibrates a first component of an electronic device. The first module may include a first end having a conductive rubber. The first module may also include a second end opposite the first end. The second end may include a magnetically attractable member. The first module may also include a bracket formed from a metallic material. The bracket may be electrically connected to the conductive rubber. The system may further include a second module that calibrates a second component of an electronic device. The second module may include a first end having a material capable of absorbing infrared light. The second module may further include a second end opposite the first end. The second end may include a magnetically attractable member. The system may also include a sensor. The system may also include a cradle that receives the electronic device. The cradle may include an element detected by the sensor to identify the cradle. The system may also include an end unit attached to an actuator. In some embodiments, the end unit and the actuator move the first module from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments the second position may be proximate to the electronic device. 
     In another aspect, a method for calibrating an electronic device is described. The method may include electrically connecting a connector to the electronic device. The method may also include engaging a module with an end unit. The module may include a conductive rubber and an opening. The end unit may include a magnet an alignment pin capable of extending through the opening of the module. The method may further include transporting the module from a first position to a second position via an actuator. In some embodiments, the second position is a location such that the conductive rubber engages a touch sensor of the electronic device. The method may further include sending an electrical signal to the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electrical signal activates the touch sensor. 
     In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium configured to store instructions that, when executed by a processor included in a computing device, cause the computing device to perform the steps described herein. One step may include electrically connecting a connector to the electronic device. Another step may include engaging a module with an end unit. The module may include a conductive rubber and an opening. The end unit may include a magnet an alignment pin capable of extending through the opening of the module. Another step may include transporting the module from a first position to a second position via an actuator. In some embodiments, the second position is a location such that the conductive rubber engages a touch sensor of the electronic device. Another step may include sending an electrical signal to the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electrical signal activates the touch sensor. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a fixture; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of a fixture having the first panel and the second panel removed; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a cradle; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view showing an enlarged portion of the fixture in  FIG. 2 , with an electronic device positioned within the cradle, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a rack having a rack door and a rack knob, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a top view of a rack showing a rack door having several extensions, such as a first extension and a second extension; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an end unit used to transport modules, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a module used to calibrate an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a side view of an enlarged portion of an embodiment of a fixture performing a calibration of an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates an isometric view of a block used to assemble components of a fixture, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a bottom view of the block shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a flowchart showing a method for calibrating an electronic device; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of a module having a rolling member, in accordance with the described embodiments; and 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a block diagram of a computing device that can represent the components of a computing device having an executable program used with a fixture, in accordance with the described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to a fixture configured to test and calibrate electronic devices. For example, the fixture may be configured to calibrate replacement parts, such as sensors, installed on the electronic device. The sensors may include an electronic proximity sensor, a touch sensor integrated with a display panel, a pressure sensor, or a fingerprint sensor. The fixture includes a modular design that includes removable racks. In order to calibrate the device, the removable racks are designed to hold several modules (or stimulus pads), with each module configured to provide a stimulus or arousal to a sensor of the electronic device. An end unit (or end effector) attached to an actuator can magnetically couple to any one of the modules and transport the module to a location proximate to the electronic device, then return the module to the rack. Not only are some modules designed to calibrate a particular sensor or sensors, but other modules are also designed to calibrate previous generation electronic device. This allows for a fixture having a single, unitary housing to calibrate and test multiple embodiments of electronic devices. 
     In addition, the fixture having a “pick-and-place” process described above does not require manual tools during operation. Also, an executable program (e.g., software) stored on a computing device (e.g., desktop or laptop computing device) is designed to operate components within the fixture. In this manner, the fixture requires minimal training by an end user. For example, the executable program includes a simple interface that prompts the user to begin the test and calibration. Also, the fixture is designed to have a relatively small footprint such that the fixture may be placed in a discrete location such as a retail store in order to provide local test and calibration to the electronic device. In other words, when components of an electronic device are damaged, the device may be taken to the retail store to receive new components and a subsequent test and calibration of the new components. In this manner, the electronic device need not be shipped to the manufacturer of the device. Alternatively, the fixture may be used as a validation point or process in a factory line used to manufacture the electronic device. Further, unlike traditional fixtures, the fixture described in this detailed description relies on electrical current for actuation of parts, rather than an air compressor. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-14 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of fixture  100 . Fixture  100  may be configured to test and calibrate several components (e.g., sensors) of an electronic device (not shown). External features of fixture  100  may include hood region  102  and several panels, including first panel  104  and second panel  106 . Second panel  106  may include door  108 , shown in a closed configuration in  FIG. 1 . Door  108  may be in an open configuration by using handle  110  to open door  108 . Once door  108  is in an open configuration, an electronic device may be inserted into fixture  100 . 
     Fixture  100  may be configured to calibrate one or more components or features of an electronic device. For example, fixture  100  may calibrate the brightness of a display panel, that is, the luminance attributed to the light source (e.g., display panel). Further, fixture  100  may calibrate a white point of the display panel, that is, a set of color values that define color white for the display panel. Also, fixture  100  may calibrate touch sensors integrated within the display panel such that a touch event associated with activating the touch sensor is substantially similar to that of the original factory settings. Also, fixture  100  may be configured to calibrate other sensors, such as a TOUCH ID®, a fingerprint sensor made by Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif. 
     Fixture  100  may include additional features. For example, fixture may include button  112  used a safety input in order to stop fixture  100  when fixture  100  is performing a test or calibration of an electronic device. Further, fixture  100  may include several indicators, such as first indicator  114  and second indicator  116 , that may illuminate to signal fixture  100  is performing a specific function or if fixture  100  has completed a calibration and/or test. In some embodiments, fixture  100  is a standalone device capable performing the calibration and test procedures with hardware and software fully enclosed within fixture  100 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1, 100  is configured to connect to a computing device (not shown), such as a desktop computing device or a laptop computing device, having an executable program used by a user to control and operate fixture  100 . Connections means between fixture  100  and the computing device may include a cable (wire) or a wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi) connection. The executable program may be software program having an interface displayed on a monitor of the computing device. Once fixture  100  calibrates the electronic device, the executable program along with fixture  100  may be used to perform a test to confirm the electronic device is properly calibrated. These test results may be uploaded to a database where the manufacture can create a log indicating work performed on the electronic device. 
     Fixture  100  may also include dimensions suitable for discrete locations. For example, fixture may include first dimension  122  approximately in the range of 11 to 13 inches, second dimension  124  approximately in the range of 16 to 20 inches, and third dimension  126  approximately in the range of 18 to 22 inches. 
     Fixture  100  can not only calibrate a mobile telecommunications device, such as an IPHONE®, from Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif., but fixture  100  may also be configured to calibrate a tablet computing device, such as an IPAD®, from Apple, Inc., of Cupertino, Calif. Moreover, fixture  100  may be designed to calibrate previous versions (or generations) of the aforementioned devices, which may include different dimensions. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of fixture  100  having first panel  104  and second panel  106  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) removed to show internal components and features of fixture  100 . Fixture  100  may include first rack  202  and second rack  204  positioned on plate  206 . First rack  202  and second rack  204  may be made from rigid materials, such as aluminum or steel. First rack  202  and second rack  204  are designed to carry several modules used by fixture  100  to calibrate an electronic device (not shown). In some embodiments, the modules are stimulus pads configured to create a stimulus or arousal of a component or components of an electronic device. This will be discussed below. First rack  202  and second rack  204  may include different designs or dimensions to accommodate various modules used in fixture  100 . Accordingly, plate  206  may include various openings configured to receive racks having different dimensions. 
     First rack  202  includes first module  212 , second module  214 , and third module  216 . First module  212  may be configured to calibrate a touch sensor of a first electronic device, while second module  214 , and third module  216  may be configured to calibrate a second electronic device and a third electronic device, respectively. The second electronic device and the third electronic device may be different generations of the first electronic device, such as a previous generation, or alternatively, a subsequent generation. Also, the second electronic device and the third electronic device include at least one different dimension than that of the first electronic device. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , second rack  204  includes first module  222 , second module  224 , and third module  226 . First module  222  may be designed to calibrate a proximity sensor used in an electronic device used to determine, for example, the distance from a user to the electronic device. In some embodiments, a proximity sensor is a photoelectric sensor configured to send and receive infrared light. As a result, first module  222  may include characteristics different from those of first module  212 , and will be discussed below. Third module  226  may also be configured to provide a stimulus to an electronic device. Fixture  100  further includes a robotic assembly include actuator  230  configured to provide movement of end unit  232  in a z-direction. In some embodiments, end unit  232  is an end effector configured to couple (e.g., magnetically couple) with a module. End unit  232  is designed such that any one of several actuators may be used, such as a stepper motor or a servo motor. Also, it will be appreciated that the modules may be ordered on first rack  202  and second rack  204  in any manner such that fixture  100  recognizes the location of the individual modules. 
     Actuator  230  and end unit  232  may also be part of a track (not shown) to provide movement to actuator  230  and end unit  232  in the x- and y-directions. The track may be used in conjunction with chain  234  (partially shown). In this manner, end unit  232  may traverse in three dimensions in order to transport modules to various locations throughout fixture  100 . It will be appreciated that executable program previously described includes instructions for operating actuator  230  and end unit  232  in the described manner. 
     Fixture  100  further includes cradle  240  that receives an electronic device. Also, cradle  240  is designed and manufactured to limit or restrict movement of the electronic device. Generally, fixture  100  is designed to allow any one of the modules in an initial position, that is, on first rack  202  or second rack  204 , to be transported by means previously described to a second position, generally associated with a location proximate to cradle  240 , and in particular, proximate to an electronic device positioned within cradle  240 . Further, the location may correspond a position such that first module  212  engages a sensor (e.g., touch sensor) of the electronic device to perform a calibration of the sensor. In another example, end unit  232  may return first module  212  (on first rack  202 ), engage first module  222  (on second rack  204 ), and transport first module  222  to a location proximate to another sensor (e.g., proximity sensor) of the electronic device. This may be a location such that a portion of first module  222  hovers over the sensor. 
     Fixture  100  further includes bracket  250  having a connector (not shown) capable of mating with the electronic device. For example, bracket  250  may extend in a direction toward the electronic device such that the connector electrically couples with the electronic device. This step may be performed by manual or automated means. In this manner, fixture  100  along with the executable program can send an electrical signal to the electronic device, such as a display panel and/or a sensor (or sensors) previously described. In this manner, a module may interact with the electronic device in order to calibrate a sensor or sensors. In some cases, images or visual content on the display panel influence the touch sensors. However, fixture  100  is designed to illuminate the display panel so that testing and calibrating is performed during the illumination. Further, after one or several calibration procedures, fixture  100  along with the executable program can retrieve from the electronic device the results of the testing. If the test is within an acceptable tolerance, fixture  100  and/or the executable program can indicate a “pass” to the user and write or store the settings to the electronic device. In this manner, the electronic device, which may include replacement parts, now includes settings substantially similar to those initially stored in the electronic device at the factory. When the calibration and testing procedures are complete, the information can be stored by the computing device and/or uploaded to a database. Then, bracket  250  can be actuated in a direction away from the electronic device to remove the connector, and the electronic device may be removed. 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 2 , end unit  232  is engaged with third module  226 . While this configuration may be used to transport third module  226 , this may also be a “parking” feature used to seat end unit  232  in a manner such that end unit  232  will not be damaged during transportation of fixture  100 . A block (not shown) protruding from end unit  232  may include a threaded opening used to receive a fastener to secure end unit  232 . 
     Fixture  100  may also include an internal light (not shown) to improve visibility. Features such as an internal light, first indicator  114 , second indicator  116 , actuator  230 , end unit  232 , the connector and the modules may be electrically coupled to an electrical ground to provide a return path for electrical current. However, in order to improve the calibration and testing procedures, end unit  232 , the connector and at least some of the modules may be electrically coupled to an electrical ground different from the electrical ground used for other components. In this manner, some components of end unit  232 , the connector and at least some of the modules may be part of an electrical circuit having a common electrical ground. This isolated ground improves the stimulation values generated by the modules during calibration, and accordingly, improves the calibration process. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of cradle  240 . In some embodiments, cradle  240  is formed from machining a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate is a rigid material, such as plastic. In the embodiments shown in  FIG. 3 , cradle  240  is formed from an acetal substrate. Cradle  240  may include several protrusions used to limit movement. For example, first protrusion  242  and second protrusion  244  may be configured to limit movement of the electronic device in two dimensions. Cradle  240  may be designed differently for different electronic devices, in order to accommodate the various dimensions of the devices. The associated heights of the protrusions are generally similar and are designed to be less than a height of the electronic device. For example, first protrusion  242  includes height  246  that is less than a height of an electronic device to be used in cradle  240 . In this manner, a module previously described may engage a portion of the electronic device without contacting any of the protrusions. 
     Also, cradle  240  may include first opening  262  and second opening  264 . First opening  262  and second opening  264  may be used to receive a structure to identify cradle  240 . For example, first opening  262  and second opening  264  may include first magnet  266  and second magnet  268 , respectively. First magnet  266  and second magnet  268  may be of any magnetic polarity (e.g., north pole, south pole). Also, first magnet  266  and second magnet  268  may be of the same magnetic polarity or of a different magnetic polarity. In this manner, cradle  240 , which may be prefabricated for particular electronic devices, may include a particular combination of polarities of first magnet  266  and second magnet  268 . For example, both first magnet  266  and second magnet  268  may both include first polarity. This may allow fixture  100  to identify cradle  240  using first magnet  266  and second magnet  268 . Although first opening  262  and second opening  264  are generally cylindrical, first opening  262  and second opening  264  may include any shape corresponding to first magnet  266  and second magnet  268 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view showing an enlarged portion of fixture  100  in  FIG. 2 , with electronic device  270  positioned within cradle  240 . Also, bracket  250  is moved to a position such that connector  252  is electrically connected to electronic device  270 . Fixture  100  further includes sensors, such as first sensor  286  and second sensor  288 . In some embodiments, first sensor  286  and second sensor  288  are proximity sensors configured to detect a position of cradle  240 . In this case, a proximity sensor may be an optical sensor or a slot sensor. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , first sensor  286  and second sensor  288  are bi-polar Hall effect sensors configured to determine not only the presence of a magnet but also the polarity of the magnetic. In this manner, first sensor  286  may detect first magnet  266  within cradle  240  as well as the magnetic polarity of first magnet  266 . Also, second sensor  288  may detect second magnet  268  within cradle  240  as well as the magnetic polarity of second magnet  268 . As a result, fixture  100  and the executable program may use the polarities to identify electronic device  270  in fixture  100  based on the magnetic polarity of first magnet  266  and second magnet  268  within cradle  240 . Stated differently, each cradle  240  is uniquely tailored receive a particular electronic device  270 . Accordingly, each cradle  240  includes a unique combination or permutation of polarities from first magnet  266  and second magnet  268 . This identification process allows the executable program to run a stored program (e.g., calibration and test program) tailored to electronic device  270  without the user having to determine the correct stored program. 
       FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate an embodiment of a rack (similar to first rack  202  shown in  FIG. 2 ) used to hold the modules.  FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of rack  302  having rack door  304  and rack knob  306 . Rack door  304  may be designed as a lock to regulate the modules. Rack door  304  is designed to move laterally along rack guide  308  with respect to rack  302 , and may include several extensions (not shown). When rack door  304  is in an unlocked position, the modules previously described may be removed either manually or by end unit  232  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). When the rack door  304  is in a locked position, the modules may not be removed. This may be useful during transportation of fixture  100  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) to prevent damage to the modules. Rack knob  306  may regulate movement of rack door  304 . For example, rack knob  306  may be rotated clockwise to prevent movement of rack door  340  and rotated counterclockwise to allow movement of rack door  304 . Also, rack door  304  may be made from any material previously described for making first rack  202  and second rack  204  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a top view of rack  302  showing rack door  304  having several extensions, such as first extension  312  and second extension  314 . When rack door  304  is in a locked position, the extensions are positioned over the modules (not shown) in a manner such that the modules may not be removed. Conversely, when rack door  304  is in an unlocked position, the extensions are positioned in locations not over the modules in a manner such that the modules may be removed. Also, to provide additional lateral support, rack  302  may include second rack guide  318  in addition to rack guide  308 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of end unit  332  used to transport modules, in accordance with the described embodiments. End unit  332  may include attachment block  334  configured to couple with an actuator (not shown). End unit  332  may further include block  336  used to secure end unit  332  in place, or “park” end unit  332 , in a manner previously described. In some embodiments, block  336  includes opening  338  configured to receive a structure such that end unit  332  remains stationary. In some embodiments, opening  338  is threaded to receive a threaded structure. End unit  332  further includes first pin  342  and second pin  344  secured to end unit  332  by first bracket  346  and second bracket  348 , respectively. In some embodiments, first pin  342  and second pin  344  pogo pins having a spring-loaded feature allowing movement along the length of first pin  342  and second pin  344 , respectively. Generally, first pin  342  and second pin  344  are made from electrically conductive materials (e.g., metal). Also, first pin  342  and second pin  344  may be electrical connected to a common electrical ground as that of connector  252  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Further, first pin  342 , second pin  344 , and connector  252  may be part of an isolated electrical circuit having an electrical ground not shared by some components (e.g., an actuator). Further, in some embodiments, the modules include metal brackets (shown below) electrically connected to stimulus material used to calibrate the electronic device. In these embodiments, when the module is coupled to end unit  332 , first pin  342  and second pin  344  are configured to contact the metal brackets such that the modules shares the same electrical ground as first pin  342 , second pin  344 , and connector  252 . 
     In order to attach to a module, end unit  332  may include magnet  350 . In some embodiments, magnet  350  is a permanent magnet. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , magnet  350  is part of a magnetic assembly further include an electromagnetic configured to provide additional magnetic attraction with a module. In other words, the magnetic field lines of magnet  350  along with electromagnetic field lines of the electromagnet maintain a desired coupling with a module. This may serve several purposes. For instance, if a power outage to the fixture (e.g., fixture  100 ) occurs, magnet  350  is capable maintaining the module. Also, in order to decouple or disengage end unit  332  from a module, the electromagnet magnet may receive an electrical current in a reverse direction thereby generating an electromagnetic field in a direction opposite the initial direction. As a result, the newly created electromagnetic field provides a repulsive force which overcomes the attractive force of magnet  350 , and the module releases from end unit  332 . 
     In order to properly align end unit  332  with a module, end unit may include alignment pins, such as first alignment pin  352  and second alignment pin  354 , both of which are configured to extend through openings of a module. 
     End unit  332  may further include cable routing block  358  configured to route cables of end unit  332  such that the cables are not in the path of end unit  332 , the actuator, and/or the modules during movement. Further, cable routing block  358  prevents cables from being stressed when end unit  332  moves to various positions. Cable routing block  358  may also be used as an anchor for grounding cables (not shown) attached to first pin  342  and second pin  344 . Also, end unit  332  may further include surface  362  configured to mate a plate of a module. In some embodiments, surface  362  is made from ferrous materials, such as steel. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of module  404  used to calibrate an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments. Module  404  may be configured to couple with an end unit, such as end unit  332  shown in  FIG. 7 . Module  404  may include plate  406  configured to mate with a surface of an end unit, such as surface  362  shown in  FIG. 7 . In some embodiments, plate  406  is formed from a magnetically attractable metal or metals. Plate  406  may include first opening  410  and second opening  412  configured to receive alignment pins, such as first alignment pin  352  and second alignment pin  354  shown in  FIG. 7 , thereby providing a guide to properly couple an end unit to module  404 . 
     Also, one end of module  404  may include stimulus member configured to stimulate or arouse an electronic device. In some embodiments, stimulus member  420  includes a conductive rubber used to engage the electronic device and provide a stimulus to a touch sensor of the device. In other embodiments, stimulus member  420  is a material configured to absorb light, including infrared light. In some embodiments, the material is a gray paper. In some embodiments, the material is a flock paper. When stimulus member  420  is a light-absorbing material, stimulus member  420  may be positioned over a proximity sensor of an electronic device. In this manner, stimulus member  420  may interact with the electronic device by receiving infrared light emitted from the proximity sensor in order to calibrate the proximity sensor. For example, stimulus member  420  may be positioned at a desired distance from the proximity sensor in a manner that simulates a user holding the electronic device near the user. Stimulus member  420  assists in calibration and testing by setting the sensor to a desired switching point, that is, a point in which the proximity sensor determines an object is within a desired proximity such that the sensor sends an electrical switching signal to the electronic device. 
     Stimulus member  420  may be coupled to first bracket  422  and second bracket  424 . In some embodiments, first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  are formed metallic materials, such as copper or beryllium copper. Generally, first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  may be made of any electrically conductive material or materials. A portion of first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  extend through third opening  426  and fourth opening  428 , respectively, of plate  406 . Also, when module  404  is engaged with an end unit, first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  are configured to engage pins, such as first pin  342  and second pin  344  shown in  FIG. 7 . As a result, stimulus member  420  is part of an electrical circuit having a common, isolated ground with a connector (e.g., connector  252  in  FIG. 4 ). Further, as shown in  FIG. 8 , first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  may include a size such that a gap exists between first opening  410  and second opening  412 , respectively, thereby further ensuring electrical isolation from other structures. It should be noted that not all modules require the electrical isolation described, and accordingly, may not include first bracket  422  and second bracket  424 . 
     Module  404  may further include block  432  accessible by fifth opening  434  of plate  406 . Fifth opening  434  is generally of a size and shape to allow a structure, such as magnet  350  (shown in  FIG. 7 ), to engage block  432 . Block  432  may be made from a magnetically attractable ferrous material or materials in order to magnetically couple module  404  to an end unit, such as end unit  332  shown in  FIG. 7 . Further, the electromagnetic of the end unit may include a magnetic field attracted to block  432 , and may be configured to create an opposing magnetic field that repels block  432 . In this regard, block  432  is formed from relatively strong ferromagnetic materials. However, block  432  includes a relatively low magnetic remanence, that is, there is minimal, if any, magnetization present in block  432  when a magnetic field (such as magnet  350  or an electromagnet) is removed from block  432  or is no longer proximate to block  432 . 
     Module  404  may further include first block  442  and second block  444 , both of which are made from non-conductive materials. First block  442  may include materials such as glass-reinforced epoxy laminates sheets. In some embodiments, first block  442  is made from FR 4 material. Second block  444  may be made from a compliant foam material or materials, thereby allowing stimulus member  420  adequate compression, which may be useful as stimulus member  420  may be used for numerous cycles. Also, first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  may provide structural support to first block  442  and second block  444 . 
     Also, while module  404  is shown having particular dimensions, the dimension of module  404  may vary according to the electronic device to be calibrated and tested. For example, module  404  may include larger or smaller dimension to accommodate stimulus member  420  having larger or smaller dimensions, respectively. Also, a rack previously described is capable of receiving modules (e.g., module  404 ) of various dimensions. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a side view of an enlarged portion of an embodiment of fixture  100  performing a calibration of electronic device  270 , in accordance with the described embodiments. Some components of fixture  100  are not shown for purposes of clarity. As shown, end unit  332  is coupled to module  404  and positioned over electronic device  270  positioned within cradle  240 . Also, first pin  342  is electrically and mechanical engaged with first bracket  422  to provide an isolated electrical ground for stimulus member  420 . Also, in this embodiment, stimulus member  420  is a conductive rubber configured to calibrate touch sensors (not shown) integrated with display panel  272  of electronic device. In other embodiments, stimulus member  420  in a paper material previously described and configured to absorb infrared light emitted from proximity sensor  274  of electronic device  270 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , when connector  252  is electrically connected to device, fixture  100  along with an executable program may send an electrical signal to electronic device  270  such that electronic device  270  displays visual content from display panel  272 . This allows for improved electronic device  270  to be calibrated under the influence of display panel  272  thereby providing improved calibration. 
     Rather than assembling the components of a fixture and performing a subsequent calibration, other techniques may be available to provide a fixture with consistent, repeatable assembly of components. For example,  FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrate an embodiment of block  500  used to assist in building a fixture, in accordance with the described embodiments. Block  500  may be used as a reference datum in which the components may be built around block  500 . Block  500  may also be used as a validation step for quality assurance. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an isometric view of block  500 . Block may be made from a metallic substrate, such as aluminum. Block  500  may be made from a material removal process having tightly controlled tolerances. For example, block  500  includes several openings, such as first opening  502 , second opening  504 , and third opening  506 . First opening  502 , second opening  504 , and third opening  506  may be formed with tolerances approximately in the range of 5 to 50 micrometers, or microns. Generally, the process for building a fixture with block  500  may include placing block  500  on a plate (such as plate  206 , shown in  FIG. 2 ), connecting block  500  to a connector (such as connector  252 , shown in  FIG. 4 ), and placing an end unit (such as end unit  232 , shown in  FIG. 2 ) of a robotic assembly including an end unit, an actuator, and in some cases, a robotic arm. Subsequent steps may include attaching initial components to the end units, and then attaching subsequent components to the initial components. In this manner, block  500  serves as a reference datum for all fixtures and calibration of components (assembled without block  500 ) is not required. This allows for fixtures having a consistent placement of components which is important for machinery used for calibration. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a bottom view of block  500  shown in  FIG. 10 . As shown, a material removal process may be performed to hollow out block  500 . This may be done in order to create block  500  having less weight and/or to allow block  500  rest evenly on some surfaces having protrusions or other uneven portions.  FIG. 11  may further include opening  508  configured to receive a connector to ensure block  500  is compliant. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a flowchart  600  showing a method for calibrating an electronic device. In step  602 , a connector is electrically connected to the electronic device. The connector may be part of a fixture used in conjunction with an executable program. An electrical signal may be sent to the electronic device via the connector. The electrical signal may activate a sensor or sensors in the electronic device. 
     In step  604 , a module is engaged with an end unit. The module may include a conductive rubber and an opening. The conductive rubber and the opening may be at opposite ends of the module. The conductive rubber is configured to engage the electronic device to stimulate a sensor, as part of the calibration process. Also, the end unit may include an alignment pin that extends through the opening in order to align the module with the end unit. The end unit may also include a magnet to magnetically couple with the module. 
     In step  606 , the module is transported from a first position to a second position via an actuator. The second position is associated with a location such that the conductive rubber engages a touch sensor of the electronic device to perform a calibration previously described. When the calibration is complete, the end unit may transport the module back to the first position and disengage from the module. Then, the end unit may select a different module from rack having several modules. 
     In step  608 , an electrical signal is sent to the electronic device. The electrical signal may activate the touch sensor. The electrical signal can also cause the display panel to emit visible light. 
     In instances when an internal power source (e.g., battery) is repaired or replaced within an electronic device, the internal power supply may be adhesively secured to the device.  FIG. 13  illustrates an isometric view of module  650  having rolling member  652 , in accordance with the described embodiments. Rolling member  652  is configured to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise when engaged with an object and actuated along the object. Rolling member  652  may be made from a material or materials such as plastic or other polymeric materials. Module  650  may include block  654 , which may include any features previously described for block  432  (in  FIG. 8 ). In this manner, the electronic device, having a repaired or replaced internal power supply, may be placed in a fixture, such as fixture  100  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). And end unit, such as end unit  332  (shown in  FIG. 7 ), may engage module  650  positioned on a rack, such as first rack  202  or second rack  204  (shown in  FIG. 2 ), and transport module  650  to the electronic device. An actuator attached to the end unit is configured to actuate the end unit along a surface of the internal power supply in order to secure another surface of the internal power supply. This ensures the internal power supply is adhesively secured to the electronic device in a desired manner. 
     Also, module  650  may include first bracket  662  and second bracket  664  configured to provide an electrical ground for module  650 . In this regard, first bracket  662  and second bracket  664  may be electrically connected to rolling member  652 . First bracket and second bracket  664  may be made from any material or materials previously described for first bracket  422  and second bracket  424  (shown in  FIG. 8 ). In other embodiments, module may not include first bracket  662  and second bracket  664 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a block diagram of computing device  700  that can represent the components of a computing device having an executable program used with a fixture, in accordance with the described embodiments. It will be appreciated that the components, devices or elements illustrated in and described with respect to  FIG. 13  may not be mandatory and thus some may be omitted in certain embodiments. Computing device  700  can include processor  702  that represents a microprocessor, a coprocessor, circuitry and/or a controller for controlling the overall operation of computing device  700 . Although illustrated as a single processor, it can be appreciated that processor  702  can include several processors. These processors can be in operative communication with each other and can be collectively configured to perform one or more functionalities of computing device  700  as described herein. In some embodiments, processor  702  can be configured to execute instructions that can be stored at computing device  700  and/or that can be otherwise accessible to the processor  702 . As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, processor  702  can be capable of performing operations and actions in accordance with embodiments described herein. 
     Computing device  700  can also include user input device  704  that allows a user of computing device  700  to interact with computing device  700 . For example, user input device  704  can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, etc. Still further, computing device  700  can include display  708  (screen display) that can be controlled by processor  702  to display information to a user. Controller  710  can be used to interface with and control different equipment through equipment control bus  712 . Computing device  700  can also include network/bus interface  714  that couples to data link  716 . Data link  716  can allow computing device  700  to couple to a host computer or to accessory devices. Data link  716  can be provided over a wired connection or a wireless connection. In the case of a wireless connection, network/bus interface  714  can include a wireless transceiver. 
     Computing device  700  can also include storage device  718 , which can have a single disk or a plurality of disks (e.g., hard drives) and a storage management module that manages one or more partitions (also referred to herein as “logical volumes”) within storage device  718 . In some embodiments, storage device  718  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. Still further, computing device  700  can include Read-Only Memory (ROM)  720  and Random Access Memory (RAM)  722 . ROM  720  can store programs, code, instructions, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. RAM  722  can provide volatile data storage, and store instructions related to components of the storage management module that are configured to carry out the various techniques described herein. Computing device  700  can further include data bus  724 . Data bus  724  can facilitate data and signal transfer between at least processor  702 , controller  710 , network/bus interface  714 , storage device  718 , ROM  720 , and RAM  722 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140919
Publication Date: 20170711
Grant Date: 20170711
Priority Date: 20140919
Inventors: NYARIBO JEREMIAH MOSENGE
DA SILVA MAURICIO M.
FLORES ABEL R.
SCHAEFFER CHRIS T.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G01D18/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/42", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01S7/497", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/0223", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/042", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01S7/497", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/0223", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/042", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/08", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/0223", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01S7/497", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01D18/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01J1/42", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01D18/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 55525500