Shape Optimization of Micro-probes and Its Contact Forces

마이크로 탐침의 형상최적설계 및 접촉력 계산

Fine pitch microprobe arrays are microneedle-like probes for inspecting the pixel of LCD panel. They are usually made of multilayers of metallic, nonmetallic, or combination of the two. In this study, the microprobe arrays were fabricated using the process applied for MEMS fabrication technology and they consist of BeCu, BeNi, or Si. Their contacting probing force and deflection were measured using the laser equipment. The design requirement are 5gf of a minimum contact force and $150{\mu}m$ of a maximum deflection. A lot of microprobe shape are possible satisfying the requirement. A double cantilever-type microprobe having needles on both ends were applied for this study. Several candidate were chosen using the topology and shape optimization technique subjected to the design requirements. Finite element results and experimental results were compared and both gave good correlation.