Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1508761
18 SMT007 MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2023 scrutinize electronic components and assem- blies, identifying defects and anomalies with unparalleled accuracy. We explore the multifaceted significance of automated inspection systems in the elec- tronics assembly industry. In this interview, we discuss their pivotal role in maintaining product quality, streamlining production pro- cesses, reducing costs, and enhancing over- all efficiency. Moreover, our experts share their insights into the latest advancements in automated inspection technology and how these innovations are reshaping the electronic assembly landscape. What are the primary objectives of implementing automatic inspection systems in electronics manufacturing? B r i a n D 'A m i co: Th e primar y objective of imp lement ing auto - matic inspection sys- tems is to eliminate d e f e c t s w i t h i n t h e manufacturing process. is may be accom- p l i s h e d n o t o n l y b y flagging these defects for review and rework but using the resulting inspection data to virtu- ally eliminate the opportunity for the defect to ever occur in the first place. Joel Scutchfield: Most think the primary reason for inspection is "defect catching" at the vari- ous typical inspection points where we inspect on a standard SMT line, including post-print, post-placement/pre-reflow, post-reflow, X-ray, or any of the various special inspection points (pin/terminal, dispensed process, THT, etc.). Although this approach provides peace of mind in terms of quality assurance and helps to ensure that escapes do not happen (do not get to the customer), the bigger benefit and value is in the use of the data provided from each of these inspection points to correct and control the assembly process, thereby preventing the defects from happening for all future builds. Taking that to the next level, we use the inspec- tion results data to feed AI engines, which can automatically provide that control of the vari- ous processes involved, thus moving us closer to the self-healing process that is "real" Smart factory realization. Arif Virani: Automatic inspection systems aim to improve inspection quality and consistency while reducing costs. Please explain the key components and tech- nologies involved in an automatic inspection system for electronics manufacturing. D'Amico: ere are a variety of different com- ponents and technologies involved in automatic inspection systems. Most systems are config- ured with high-resolution optics and lighting systems combined with various forms of 3D inspection technology such as moiré and laser. Scutchfield: I'll speak to SPI and AOI, specif- ically. ere are multiple methods (technolo- gies) being utilized for SPI and AOI depend- ing on whether 2D or 3D is being used. When it comes to 3D, there are two basic approaches: moiré interferometry and laser. Laser, unfor- tunately, has several shortcomings as it applies to the PCB inspection world for SPI and AOI, which is the reason most providers use the moiré approach to varying degrees. at's important to note, because not all 3D is cre- ated equal. Technically, a 3D image can be gen- erated from a single moiré projector, but that image will be susceptible to back side shadows, opposite the side of the component where the moiré pattern is being projected. us, a min- imum of two projectors are needed to elimi- nate the "back side shadow phenomenon." An inspection system needs to gather the right kind of data (measurement based, parametric results) using very precise subsystems for pat- tern generation and data gathering to gather the right amount of data from a multitude of sources for superior statistical relevancy.