In a recent example of this, Automationpro has developed a machine that inspects the height of pressed-in contact pins on PCBs, (Press Fit Technology) inline, immediately following the pressing-in process. Clearly, if the inserted pins are not completely pressed through the openings, it is not possible to establish a contact with other components, which may cause a failure.
To help overcome this possibility and identify that the pins are indeed properly installed and in contact, a scanCONTROL laser profile sensor from Engineering Materials Live exhibitor Micro Epsilon scans each PCB in three dimensions. During the pin installation pressing process, the PCBs are fixed on a rotary table which moves the freshly assembled module from the press-in position direct to the scanning position.
The scanCONTROL laser unit is moved by an actuator which is connected to an encoder, and this triggers the line scanner to ensure regular profile distances. Depending on the cycle time of the process, the component undergoes a complete scan within seven seconds, generating 1,280 points per profile to confirm the absolute accuracy of the pins in the workpiece.
ScanCONTROL and many other popular devices and equipment for precision production purposes may be seen and discussed on the Micro Epsilon stand at the forthcoming Engineering Materials Live event on March 12th.
Entry to the Engineering Materials Live event is free of charge by pre-registration. The show takes place at the acclaimed British Motor Museum on 12th March next year: the venue is located adjacent to the Aston Martin and JLR plants south of Warwick and just 1 minute from the M40. There is abundant free parking, and for visitors arriving before 10:30, a free bacon roll and brew too. Tea and coffee is provided free of charge all day at the event, and pre-registered exhibition visitors can also visit the superb British Motor Museum, with almost 300 fascinating cars on show, free of charge too (standard adult entry fee otherwise is £14.50).
