QUALITY ASSURANCE IN TRANSITION: THE STEP TO 3D-AOI
Due to the constant progress in production technology and the ongoing change in market requirements, we have expanded our machinery and invested in a 3D AOI. The aim of this change is to further increase the quality of our production and optimize our manufacturing process.
AOI – AUTOMATIC OPTICAL INSPECTION
Automatic optical inspection, or AOI for short, is an advanced technology used in electronics production to check the quality of SMD assemblies. By using different cameras, the presence of the components, the correct polarity, the quality of the solder joints and the exact positioning of the individual components can be checked.
In addition to capturing 1D and 2D codes to ensure the correctness of the labeling, the AOI can also perform a character check on labeled components to ensure that the labeling is correct. Faulty PCBs are classified and sorted directly into good and bad. If possible, the poorly classified PCBs are repaired directly.
With the move to 3D AOI, we have expanded our inspection options. The moiré stripe grid projection, supported by lateral 3D cameras, provides us with additional height information. This enables a comprehensive view from different angles, which in turn leads to a more precise detection of the components and improves reliability when identifying defects or irregularities in the component.
WHAT IS THE MOIRÉ STRIPE GRID PROJECTION?
The moiré effect occurs when two grids are superimposed on each other, creating a new pattern known as a moiré pattern. In the moiré stripe grid projection, such a pattern is projected onto the object to be examined. The surface of the object causes distortions in the projected pattern that are directly proportional to the local height changes on the surface of the object. Lateral cameras capture the projected pattern together with the distortions. By analyzing these distortions, precise information about the three-dimensional structure of the object is obtained.
COMMON ERRORS IN ELECTRONICS PRODUCTION
In electronics production, there are numerous sources of error that can affect the quality of the manufactured assemblies. By using 3D AOI, many of these sources of error can be reduced or completely eliminated. Frequent sources of error:
- One component has not been fitted.
- A component has reversed polarity and is sitting on the circuit board in the opposite direction.
- Unstable connections due to defective solder joints.
- Bent IC pins, which can lead to malfunctions.
- Solder bridges caused by too much solder, which can lead to short circuits.
THE POSITIVE ASPECTS OF AUTOMATIC OPTICAL INSPECTION (AOI)
Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI) makes a decisive contribution to improving production quality and productivity by offering a wide range of benefits:
Higher quality level
The use of various cameras enables more precise troubleshooting, which leads to an overall higher quality of the manufactured products.
Analysis of disturbance variables
By examining potential sources of error in detail, causes are identified and targeted measures can be taken. This enables continuous improvement of the production process by avoiding recurring problems.
Earlier and better fault detection
The early identification of errors enables appropriate measures to be taken to reduce the error rate. This has a positive impact on overall efficiency and enables more effective use of resources and manpower.
Safeguarding the supply chain
The AOI plays an important role in securing the supply chain by ensuring that the assemblies meet quality standards and are delivered correctly.
Baudisch Electronic GmbH
Im Gewerbegebiet 19
73116 Wäschenbeuren