Meaning
An optical measurement technique uses light interference patterns to analyze the out-of-plane warpage of electronic assemblies at various temperatures. Utilizing shadow moire enables engineers to map the surface topography of a printed circuit board or silicon package. This non-contact method identifies physical distortion that can lead to assembly defects.
Measurement Technique
A high-density glass grating is placed close to the sample surface, and a light source projects a shadow of the grating onto the sample. When viewed through the grating, the shadow and the physical grating interfere to produce geometric fringe patterns. Software analyzes these fringes to calculate the vertical displacement across the surface.
Thermal Testing
Integrating this optical setup with a heating chamber allows researchers to track warpage across a simulated reflow temperature profile. The system records surface changes as the sample heats from room temperature to over two hundred and fifty degrees Celsius. These tests reveal how the materials expand and warp during actual soldering.
Design Validation
Measuring these changes helps designers select materials and layouts that minimize warpage and avoid open solder joints. It provides a reliable way to compare different substrate formulations or component layouts before production starts. This testing reduces the risk of thermal failures in high-volume manufacturing.