Selected processes on electronic equipment assembly lines (1)
The electronics industry uses many processes to manufacture equipment. These processes have a significant impact on the quality and efficiency of production. Automation of processes reduces production costs and errors. The dynamic development of technology and increasing market demands are forcing electronics manufacturers to invest in improving assembly processes, increasing productivity and reducing the risk of delivering defective products.
Robotic mechanical assembly
Mechanical assembly of a module or device from semi-finished products is worth robotizing. Often these are pick & place operations with assembly into the housing of finished PCBs and additional components such as washers, seals or spacers. SCARA-type robots prove themselves here. The advantage of such a solution is precision, repeatability and speed. The appropriate design of the robot gripper allows it to match the type of product and integrate various operations in a small space. The gripper is equipped with manipulators, vision systems for guidance or verification, and screwdrivers and screw feeding systems. The robotic stations can be designed to operate independently or in line with a conveyor system. The right number of robotic stations and the right software to manage the movement of transport pallets allows production to be optimized over time.
Applying adhesives and sealants
Depending on the type of component parts and the purpose of the product, it is necessary to dose and apply substances with different properties. These can include adhesives, sealants, thermally and electrically conductive compounds. In the assembly line of components for PTC heaters, dispensing of thermally conductive adhesive with compensation of the actual position of the component on the pallet was used. The solution, based on a vision system, servo drive and scales, allows correct application of the layer with a precision of ±0.0125g and a droplet diameter of about 1.9mm. The correct adhesive composition is ensured by a dispensing needle system with a mixing tube with a constant mixing ratio. Servo-controlled dispensing pistons feed the substrates into the mixing tube. The combination is stablized at a thermal fixation station by heating the component to about 100-120°. A second automatic glue application system, handles the sides of the component with a dispensing precision of ± 0.005g.
Infrared welding
Infrared welding is a clean process for assembling plastic components, using a special moving head with a lamp and a reflective inner surface. The head is slid onto a plastic pin that positions the parts to be attached. The reflective interior of the head focuses the infrared energy from the lamp onto the plastic peg and heats it up. The plastic becomes soft, so the tip inside presses down on it, which flattens and molds the peg, fixing the parts.
ELPLC SA machines and lines
We specialize in designing and building machines, complete robotic assembly lines and developing software for industry. We offer our expertise to many industries. We provide Industry 4.0 / Smart Factory solutions.
