Abstract: An interconnect structure on a semiconductor die includes: a lower conductive layer; an upper conductive layer disposed above the lower conductive layer; and a VIA disposed between the lower conductive layer and the upper conductive layer. The VIA includes: a primary interconnect structure and a sacrificial stress barrier ring disposed around the primary interconnect structure and separated a distance from the primary interconnect structure. A fabrication method for the interconnect structure includes: forming a dielectric layer over a lower conductive layer; patterning photoresist (PR) layer over the dielectric layer to define a location for a plurality of VIA trenches, wherein the patterning includes patterning the PR layer to provide a center opening for the VIA trenches that is surrounded by a ring opening for the VIA trenches, wherein the center opening and the ring opening are spaced apart.

Abstract: This document describes systems and techniques for simulating the touch of a human finger in manipulating an interface device, such as a touchscreen included in a mobile phone or other computing device. The systems and techniques include an artificial finger configured to be received and manipulated by a robotic actuator to simulate surface engagement, mechanical force, and electrical conductivity of a human finger engaging the touchscreen at varied touch angles and/or mechanical pressures. The systems and techniques thereby provide for rigorous and repeatable testing of an electrical and mechanical response of the touchscreen to simulated user inputs without involving a human test operator.

Abstract: A banner connecting apparatus of a flag pole is provided. The apparatus comprises upper and lower coupling buttons, each coupling button including a connecting ring adapted to rotate about the flag pole and a connecting button engaging a coupling hole of a banner. The apparatus also comprises a cylindrical spacing sleeve disposed between the upper and lower coupling buttons and adapted to be received on the flag pole. The apparatus further comprises an elastic retaining mechanism for engaging the flag pole. The elastic retaining mechanism adjustably limits the longitudinal displacement of at least one connecting ring with respect to the flag pole. The banner connecting apparatus connects a banner to a flag pole while preventing the banner from wrapping around that flag pole.