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PCB007-Mar2020

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MARCH 2020 I PCB007 MAGAZINE 49 can reduce the number of alignment points necessary to meet a given process accuracy target. Such capabilities can reduce the time required to process—by many minutes, in ex- treme cases—especially warped patterned work pieces. Lastly, a robust system design—coupled with robust process development—can significantly reduce maintenance downtime, thereby in- creasing overall system productivity. Precision mechanical, optical, and systems engineer- ing by reputable and experienced laser sys- tems manufacturers can significantly reduce the amount of maintenance required for laser systems, especially the high-power UV laser systems that dominate the flex laser process- ing industry. Similarly, effective laser and op- tics protection mechanisms become critical for such UV laser systems. These extend the life of the laser and optics with minimal preventive maintenance downtime associated with clean- ing and replacing the laser and optics. Summary The world's growing appetite for technology products and the accelerating pace of change will continue to make it difficult for PCB man- ufacturers to see far enough ahead to know what challenges they will face next. Howev- er, one thing is clear; effectively responding to these new requirements—and doing so profit- ably—will require flexibility and a willingness to embrace innovation as a strategic tool to stay ahead. With the next generation of technology always being just around the corner, keeping current with technology and processes is the best way to stay competitive in a competitive market. Some things never change. PCB007 Patrick Riechel is director of product marketing for the ESI flexible circuit micromachining tools at MKS Instru- ments. He has over 15 years of experi- ence in the design and manufacture of electronics, having held positions at Symbol Technologies, Motorola Solutions, and ESI. Patrick has an MBA degree and a master of science in systems engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from Brown University. As the inventor of seven patents, and the catalyst for bringing industrial head-worn computing to Motorola, he was the recipient of the Robert Noyce Fellowship at MIT for his contributions to the field of electronics. Shane Noel is product marketing man- ager for the ESI flexible circuit micro- machining tools at MKS Instruments. He has over 20 years of experience in the design and manufacture of electronics, having held positions at LPKF and ESI. Shane has a master of science in materials science from the University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor of science in materials science from Columbia University. Rolls-Royce has created a new engine controls capa- bility near the campus of Purdue University to support its U.S. defense business, including the F130 engine compet- ing for the U.S. Air Force B-52 program. Rolls-Royce will assemble and test electronic engine controllers, which help manage in-flight engine opera- tions. The first controller has been completed in West La- fayette, Indiana, and will be installed onto a Rolls-Royce AE 3007H engine, manufactured at the company's facili- ties in Indianapolis. Purdue University is a designated Rolls-Royce Univer- sity Technology Partnership that recognizes its collabora- tions on research, including advanced engine technology, materials and testing capability, and a Rolls-Royce in- vestment at the university topping $18 million since 2015 and more than 600 Purdue graduates among the com- pany's workforce in Indianapolis. Rolls-Royce and Purdue also have collaborated on initiatives in cybersecurity and digital technology, as well as the new controls project. (Source: Purdue University) Rolls-Royce Launches New Electronics Manufacturing Capability at Purdue University

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