A separation and testing device and method for FPC flexible printed circuit boards

Abstract

This invention discloses an FPC flexible circuit board separation and detection device and method, relating to the field of FPC flexible circuit board detection technology. It includes: a pushing mechanism comprising a first clamping fixture, a second clamping fixture, and a first moving module, wherein the first and second clamping fixtures are used to clamp both ends of a multilayer FPC flexible circuit board, forming a detection area for the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board between the first and second clamping fixtures; an adsorption separation mechanism comprising a third moving module connected to a first adsorption element, wherein the third moving module is used to drive the first adsorption element closer to the detection area and adsorb the surface layer of the FPC flexible circuit board; and an image detector for capturing and detecting the separation state of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board in the detection area. This allows for detection of the separation state after each layer of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board has been separated. The image detector utilizes a visual algorithm for rapid identification and detection during image capture, thereby improving detection accuracy, precision, and efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of FPC flexible printed circuit board (FPC) testing technology, and in particular to an FPC flexible printed circuit board separation and testing device and method. Background Technology

[0002] Flexible printed circuit boards (FPCs) refer to circuit boards made using flexible materials as the substrate. These circuit boards can be freely bent, folded, and even twisted without affecting their electrical performance. Multilayer FPCs, on the other hand, are a more complex technology developed based on single-layer or multi-layer rigid boards. They are formed by stacking and connecting multiple layers of flexible circuit boards in a specific way to create a unified structure. This approach increases the density and complexity of the circuit board while maintaining the advantages of flexible boards.

[0003] In most designs, the layers of a multilayer FPC circuit board are bonded together. However, in some specific application areas, in order to meet specific functional requirements, multilayer FPC circuit boards with partially separated states are designed to meet market demands.

[0004] After the separated multilayer FPC circuit boards are manufactured, the separated areas still need to be inspected to improve product quality and prevent unseparated products from being released. However, the current inspection of the separated areas of multilayer FPC circuit boards usually involves observing the separated areas with equipment such as microscopes that have image magnification functions to determine the separation status of the multilayer FPC circuit boards. However, since the spacing between the FPC circuit boards of each layer is very small, and some areas are even in contact with each other, relying solely on image magnification equipment for inspection will result in poor accuracy and inaccurate detection.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to propose a new technical solution to address the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To overcome the shortcomings mentioned above, the present invention aims to provide a technical solution that can solve the above problems.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing device, comprising:

[0008] The arching mechanism includes a first clamping fixture, a second clamping fixture, and a first moving module. The first and second clamping fixtures are used to clamp the two ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board, so that a detection area of ​​the multilayer FPC flexible board is formed between the first and second clamping fixtures. The first moving module is used to drive the first clamping fixture to move towards the second clamping fixture, so that the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area forms an arch shape.

[0009] The adsorption separation mechanism includes a third moving module, which is connected to a first adsorption element. The third moving module is used to drive the first adsorption element close to the detection area and adsorb the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board, and then move away from the detection area to separate the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0010] The image detector is used to capture and detect the separation state of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board in the detection area after separation.

[0011] As a further aspect of the present invention: the pushing mechanism further includes a second moving module for driving the second clamping fixture to move towards the first clamping fixture, the first moving module and the second moving module respectively driving the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture, so that the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture can move closer to or further away from each other.

[0012] As a further embodiment of the present invention: the adsorption separation mechanism further includes a fourth moving module and a second adsorption element arranged opposite to the third moving module and the first adsorption element. The third moving module and the fourth moving module can respectively drive the first adsorption element and the second adsorption element to approach the detection area to adsorb the surface FPC flexible boards on opposite sides of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0013] As a further embodiment of the present invention: when the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area is in a flat state, the third moving module drives the first adsorption member to first contact and adsorb one side of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area, or the fourth moving module drives the second adsorption member to first contact and adsorb the other side of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area.

[0014] As the first and second moving modules drive the first and second clamping fixtures to move closer to each other, the third moving module drives the first adsorption component to move away from the detection area, or the fourth moving module drives the second adsorption component to move away from the detection area, thereby controlling the arching direction of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area.

[0015] As a further aspect of the present invention: both the first adsorption element and the second adsorption element include a suction rod and a suction nozzle;

[0016] The suction rod is a telescopic suction rod.

[0017] As a further aspect of the present invention: the first clamping fixture includes a first fixture plate and a first flip cover that is folded and connected to the first fixture plate by a rotating connection structure;

[0018] The second clamping fixture includes a second fixture plate and a second flip cover that is folded and connected to the second fixture plate by a rotating connection structure.

[0019] As a further aspect of the present invention: a plurality of positioning pins are provided on both the first fixture plate and the second fixture plate, and the first flip cover and the second flip cover are provided with clearance holes corresponding to the plurality of positioning pins, and the plurality of positioning pins are provided along the edge of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0020] As a further aspect of the present invention: when the first and second flip covers are closed, soft rubber strips are provided at the ends of the contact surfaces with the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0021] As a further aspect of the present invention: the first fixture plate is provided with a material shortage sensor and a flip cover sensor on the side away from the first flip cover, and the first fixture plate has through holes corresponding to the material shortage sensor and the flip cover sensor.

[0022] The material shortage sensor is located in the area where the first flip cover overlaps with the multi-layer FPC flexible board, and the flip cover sensor is located in the area outside the area where the first flip cover covers the multi-layer FPC flexible board but does not overlap with it.

[0023] This invention provides the following technical solution: a separation and detection method, applied to the aforementioned FPC flexible circuit board separation and detection equipment, for detecting separated multilayer FPC flexible circuit boards, the method comprising:

[0024] The algorithm creates a reference by matching the fixed feature positions of the first and second clamping fixtures. After finding the template, the matching position generates the reference point one corresponding to the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture and the reference point two corresponding to the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture.

[0025] Based on reference point one, distance offset is performed, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture, the root search area one is generated by algorithm matching. Based on reference point two, distance offset is performed, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture, the root search area four is generated by algorithm matching. After finding area one and area four, the thickness of the FPC flexible board is measured using edge pairs, and only the width of the first pair of edge pairs is searched. By setting the upper and lower limits of the FPC flexible board thickness tolerance, it is determined whether the multilayer FPC flexible boards are bonded.

[0026] Based on reference point one and reference point two, the positioning is matched and the arc angle is found. Based on the real-time arc angle, edge pairs with the same angle are generated to measure area two and area three. The measurement area can be moved or added according to the actual working conditions. The edge pair width measurement algorithm outputs the FPC flexible board thickness of area two and area three. The upper and lower limits of FPC flexible board thickness tolerance are set to determine whether the multi-layer FPC flexible boards are bonded.

[0027] In this case, if the product thickness measured in Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, and Zone 4 is the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is judged as OK. If the product thickness measured is the thickness of two or three layers of FPC, which is greater than the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is judged as NG.

[0028] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows:

[0029] First, the two ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board are fixed by the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture. The first moving module drives the first clamping fixture to naturally form an arch shape on the separation part of the multilayer FPC flexible board. Then, the third moving module causes the first adsorption member to adsorb the surface FPC flexible board on the concave surface of the arch shape. The third moving module then causes the first adsorption member to pull and separate the surface FPC flexible board of the separation part of the multilayer FPC flexible board. Finally, the separation part of the multilayer FPC flexible board is photographed and detected by the imaging detector.

[0030] By adding a second moving module, a fourth moving module, and a second suction component, the separation section of the multilayer FPC flexible board is tested twice. The first test involves the separation section forming a downward-facing arch shape. The first suction component holds the upper layer of the separation section and pulls it upwards to separate it from the middle layer. A detector then checks whether one or two layers are being pulled upwards. Pulling upwards will result in two outcomes: First, if it's a single-layer board, the test is OK; second, if it's two-layer board or there's no separation in the middle, the test is NG. The second test involves the separation section forming a downward-facing arch shape. The second suction component holds the lower layer of the separation section and pulls it downwards to separate it from the middle layer. A detector then checks whether one or two layers are being pulled downwards. Pulling downwards will also result in two outcomes: First, if it's a single-layer board, the test is OK; second, if it's two-layer board or there's no separation in the middle, the test is NG.

[0031] Therefore, the separation status of the upper and middle layers and the lower and middle layers of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board can be detected by two separate tests, thereby realizing the separation test of three-layer products. In the test of multilayer FPC flexible circuit boards, each layer of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board can be separated and the separation status can be tested, thereby improving the test accuracy, test precision and test efficiency.

[0032] When the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area is in a flat state, the third moving module drives the first adsorption component to contact and hold one side of the separation part, or the fourth moving module drives the second adsorption component to contact and hold the other side of the separation part. While the first moving module and the second moving module drive the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture to move closer to each other to push and arch the separation part, the third moving module simultaneously drives the first adsorption component to move away from the detection area to apply a pulling force to the separation part, or the fourth moving module simultaneously drives the second adsorption component to move away from the detection area to apply a pulling force to the separation part. The arching direction of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area is controlled, so that in the two separation tests, the separation part is controlled to form an arch shape in opposite directions.

[0033] Meanwhile, the vision algorithm uses the distance offset between the first reference point on the first clamping fixture and the second reference point on the second clamping fixture to match and generate Region 1, Region 2, Region 3 and Region 4. During the two separation detection processes of the multilayer FPC flexible board, the edge pair measurement algorithm is used to measure the thickness of the FPC flexible board in Region 1, Region 2, Region 3 and Region 4. Finally, based on the set upper and lower tolerance limits of the flexible board thickness, it is determined whether the upper and middle layers and the lower and middle layers of the multilayer FPC flexible board are completely separated.

[0034] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first moving module and the second moving module of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third and fourth moving modules of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the measurement reference positioning principle of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of upper and middle layer separation measurement in this invention;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of separating the lower and middle layers in this invention.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the OK test product of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the detection of NG products according to the present invention;

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the detection of NG products according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the detection of NG products according to the present invention;

[0047] The corresponding labels in the attached diagram are explained as follows:

[0048] 1. First moving module; 2. First clamping fixture; 201. First fixture plate; 202. First flip cover; 3. Second clamping fixture; 301. Second fixture plate; 302. Second flip cover; 4. Third moving module; 5. First suction element; 6. Image detector; 7. Second moving module; 8. Fourth moving module; 9. Second suction element; 10. Nozzle rod; 11. Nozzle; 12. Positioning PIN; 13. Material shortage sensor; 14. Flip cover sensor; 15. Soft rubber strip; 16. Barcode scanner. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0050] Please see Figure 1-4 An FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing device, comprising:

[0051] Example 1:

[0052] The arching mechanism includes a first clamping fixture 2, a second clamping fixture 3, and a first moving module 1. The first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 are used to clamp the two ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board, so that a detection area of ​​the multilayer FPC flexible board is formed between the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3. The first moving module 1 is used to drive the first clamping fixture 2 to move towards the second clamping fixture 3, so that the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area forms an arch shape.

[0053] The adsorption separation mechanism includes a third moving module 4, which is connected to a first adsorption element 5. The third moving module 4 is used to drive the first adsorption element 5 close to the detection area and adsorb the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board, and then move it away from the detection area to separate the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board. In order to improve the stability of adsorption, the first adsorption element 5 is preferably configured to adsorb the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board at an angle perpendicular to the separated part of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0054] The image detector 6 is used to image and detect the separation state of the multilayer FPC flexible board separation section in the detection area after separation.

[0055] In this embodiment, the operator places both ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board on the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3, so that the separation part of the multilayer FPC flexible board (hereinafter referred to as the "separation part") is in the detection area between the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3. The first moving module 1 drives the first clamping fixture 2 to move towards the second clamping fixture 3, so that the separation part naturally forms an arch shape in the detection area. Then, the third moving module 4 drives the first adsorption member 5 to approach the detection area and adsorb the surface FPC flexible board of the separation part. After the first adsorption member 5 adsorbs the surface FPC flexible board, the third moving module 4 drives the first adsorption member 5 to move away from the detection area, so that the surface FPC flexible board is pulled away from the separation part and forms a separation state. Then, the separation state of the separation part is photographed and detected by the imaging detector 6. Thus, in the detection of multilayer FPC flexible boards, the surface FPC flexible board of the separation part can be separated before the separation state is detected, thereby improving the detection accuracy, detection precision and detection efficiency.

[0056] Among them, such as Figure 1As shown, to make the captured images clearer, the imaging detector 6 preferably uses a CCD camera with a high-definition telecentric lens. The imaging detector 6 is preferably installed vertically facing the side of the separation part, so that the captured image shows the separation state between the layers of the separation part. At the same time, the imaging detector 6 is also connected to an external signal transmission display device. The imaging detector 6 transmits the captured image and detection results to the display device for display, which is convenient for the operator to view. Furthermore, a backlight is installed on the other end of the multilayer FPC flexible board, opposite to the imaging detector 6. The backlight can provide uniform background illumination, which enhances the contrast between the layers of the separation part, makes it easier to observe the fine layering, and reduces shadows caused by uneven or curved surfaces, making the image of the detection area clearer and thus making the measurement more accurate. At the same time, a lifting cylinder for adjusting the height of the backlight is added to adjust the height of the backlight so that the backlight is aligned with the imaging detector 6.

[0057] When the separation part forms an arch shape, it has an arched surface and an inner concave surface. The first adsorption member 5 preferably adsorbs the surface FPC soft board of the inner concave surface of the separation part. When the separation part arches, there is arched stress, and the surface FPC soft board at the arched end can no longer be pulled. Forcibly pulling can easily cause tearing damage to the FPC soft board. At this time, the first adsorption member 5 adsorbs the surface FPC soft board of the inner concave surface of the separation part, which can pull the upward arched surface FPC soft board in the opposite direction of the arch, thereby changing the arching direction of the surface FPC soft board. This can not only improve the separation effect of the separation part, but also avoid tearing the product when pulling.

[0058] Example 2:

[0059] The pushing mechanism also includes a second moving module 7 for moving the second clamping fixture 3 toward the first clamping fixture 2. The first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 respectively move the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3, so that the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 can move closer to or further away from each other.

[0060] In this embodiment of the solution, when the first moving module 1 moves the first clamping fixture 2 toward the second clamping fixture 3, since it is a unidirectional movement, it is easy to cause stress shift when the separated part forms an arch shape. The two ends cannot be subjected to force at the same time, which may cause damage to the connection between the separated part of the multilayer FPC flexible board and other parts.

[0061] By adding a second moving module 7, the second clamping fixture 3 is moved toward the first clamping fixture 2. Through the cooperation of the first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7, the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 can move closer to each other synchronously to avoid damage to the connection between the separated part of the multilayer FPC flexible board and other parts.

[0062] Example 3:

[0063] To handle the adsorption and separation detection of three-layer multilayer FPC flexible boards, the adsorption and separation mechanism also includes a fourth moving module 8 and a second adsorption component 9 arranged opposite to the third moving module 4 and the first adsorption component 5. The third moving module 4 and the fourth moving module 8 can respectively drive the first adsorption component 5 and the second adsorption component 9 to approach the detection area to adsorb the surface FPC flexible boards on the opposite sides of the separation part of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0064] In practice, the separation portion of the multilayer FPC flexible board is tested twice. During the first test, the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 are used to clamp both ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board. The first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 respectively move the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 closer together, causing the separation portion to form a downward-arched shape. At this time, the fourth moving module 8 moves the second adsorption member 9 to adhere to and fix the arched surface of the separation portion. The third moving module 4 moves the first adsorption member 5 to separate the surface layer of the concave inner surface of the separation portion. The FPC flexible board (i.e., the upper FPC flexible board of the separation section) is then moved away from the detection area by the third moving module 4 to pull the upper FPC flexible board away from the separation section. The imaging detector 6 detects whether the number of layers pulled upward is one or two. There are two detection results when the upper FPC flexible board is pulled upward: First: if it is one FPC flexible board facing upward, the detection is OK; Second: if it is two FPC flexible boards facing upward, or if the middle of the separation section is not separated, the detection is NG.

[0065] During the second test, the first adsorption component 5 and the second adsorption component 9 are retracted to their original positions by the third moving module 4 and the fourth moving module 8, respectively. The first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 drive the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 away from each other, straightening the separated part again. Then, the first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 drive the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 closer together, causing the separated part to form an upward-arched shape. At this time, the upper end surface of the separated part is an arched surface, and the lower end surface is a concave surface. The first adsorption component... 5. Hold the arched surface of the separation part in place and fix it in place. Then, the second suction element 9 approaches and pulls down the surface layer of the FPC flexible board (i.e., the lower layer of the separation part) on the concave surface of the separation part to separate the lower layer of the FPC flexible board from the separation part. The imaging detector 6 detects whether the number of layers pulled down is one or two. There are two detection results when the lower layer of the FPC flexible board is held down and pulled down: First: If it is one layer of FPC flexible board facing down, the detection is OK; Second: If it is two layers of FPC flexible board facing down, or if the middle of the separation part is not separated, the detection is NG.

[0066] Thus, based on two separate tests, the separation status of the upper and middle layers of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board, and the lower and middle layers of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board, can be detected, thereby achieving separation detection of the three-layer FPC flexible circuit board.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment of this solution, before the first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 respectively drive the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 to move closer together to form an arch shape in the separated part, i.e., when the separated part is in a flat state, the third moving module 4 drives the first adsorption member 5 to first contact and adsorb one side of the separated part, or the fourth moving module 8 drives the second adsorption member 9 to first contact and adsorb the other side of the separated part; while the first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7 respectively drive the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 to move closer together to push the separated part into an arch shape.

[0068] The third moving module 4 synchronously drives the first adsorption member 5 to move away from the detection area to apply a pulling force to the separation part, thereby controlling the separation part to form an arch shape that arches towards the first adsorption member 5. Then, the fourth moving module 8 drives the second adsorption member 9 to pick up the surface FPC flexible board on the side of the separation part away from the first adsorption member 5, and then drives the second adsorption member 9 to move away from the detection area, thereby separating the surface FPC flexible board picked up by the second adsorption member 9 from the separation part.

[0069] Alternatively, the fourth moving module 8 can simultaneously drive the second adsorption member 9 to move away from the detection area to apply tension to the separation part, thereby controlling the separation part to form an arch shape that arches towards the second adsorption member 9. Then, the third moving module 4 can drive the first adsorption member 5 to pick up the surface FPC flexible board of the separation part away from the second adsorption member 9, and then drive the first adsorption member 5 to move away from the detection area, thereby separating the surface FPC flexible board picked up by the first adsorption member 5 from the separation part.

[0070] Therefore, when the separation part is in a flat state, the third moving module 4 drives the first adsorption member 5 to adsorb one side of the separation part, or the fourth moving module 8 drives the second adsorption member 9 to adsorb the other side of the separation part. This can control the arching direction when the separation part forms an arch shape, thereby controlling the separation part to form an arch shape in opposite directions during the two separation tests.

[0071] In this solution, the first moving module 1, the second moving module 7, the third moving module 4, and the fourth moving module 8 can all be composed of servo motors, slide rails, lead screws, and sliders. The sliders are slidably connected to the slide rails, the lead screws are located inside the slide rails, and the sliders are screwed to the lead screws. The servo motors drive the lead screws, causing the sliders to slide within the slide rails, thereby moving the first clamping fixture 2 / second clamping fixture / first adsorption component 5 / second adsorption component 9. The precision servo motor module makes the separation distance of the multi-layer FPC flexible board separation part adjustable. At the same time, this solution is equipped with an integrated vacuum generator to provide vacuum suction for the first adsorption component 5 and the second adsorption component 9, and a filter is installed to filter the intake air, thereby protecting the multi-layer FPC flexible board. This solution also includes a tooling plate, a vertical plate, and a mounting bracket. The tooling plate is used for the installation of the imaging detector 6, the mounting bracket can be used for the installation and fixation of the third moving module 4 and the fourth moving module 8, and the vertical plate is used for the installation and fixation of the first moving module 1 and the second moving module 7.

[0072] Preferably, both the first adsorption element 5 and the second adsorption element 9 include a suction rod 10 and a suction nozzle 11;

[0073] Among them, the suction rod 10 is a telescopic suction rod 10, and the suction nozzle 11 is made of soft rubber material.

[0074] Specifically, the retractable nozzle rod 10 is composed of a sleeve and a telescopic rod. The telescopic rod is slidably connected inside the sleeve, and a telescopic spring is connected between the sleeve and the telescopic rod. The telescopic rod is connected to the nozzle 11, so that when the nozzle contacts the multilayer FPC flexible board and is subjected to pushing or pulling forces, it can perform telescopic movement. The retractable nozzle rod 10 can ensure that the nozzle 11 makes gentle contact with the surface of the multilayer FPC flexible board, reducing scratches, and provides a buffering effect when pulling the multilayer FPC flexible board, avoiding the risk of mechanical damage such as tearing.

[0075] Secondly, the suction nozzle 11 is a custom-made silicone nozzle 11, which can prevent scratching of the multi-layer FPC flexible board during adsorption.

[0076] In an embodiment of this solution, the first clamping fixture 2 includes a first fixture plate 201 and a first flip cover 202 that is folded and connected to the first fixture plate 201 by a rotating connection structure.

[0077] The second clamping fixture 3 includes a second fixture plate 301 and a second flip cover 302 that is folded and connected to the second fixture plate 301 by a rotating connection structure;

[0078] The rotating connection structure includes a rotating shaft block 1 disposed on the first fixture plate 201, and the first flip cover 202 is rotatably connected to the rotating shaft in the rotating shaft block 1, so that the first flip cover 202 can be flipped and folded on the first fixture plate 201.

[0079] The second hinge block 2 is set on the second fixture plate 301, and the second flip cover 302 is rotatably connected to the hinge in the second hinge block 2, so that the second flip cover 302 can be flipped and folded on the second fixture plate 301.

[0080] Specifically, when placing the multilayer FPC flexible board to be tested, both ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board can be placed on the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301. Then, the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are flipped over respectively to cover the non-testing part of the multilayer FPC flexible board, thereby fixing the multilayer FPC flexible board and preventing the position of the multilayer FPC flexible board from shifting during the movement, which would cause the various aspects of the separation part to be unable to be aligned with the first adsorption member 5, the second adsorption member 9 and the imaging detector 6.

[0081] In order to avoid the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 affecting the detection of the image detector 6, when the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are flipped to cover the multilayer FPC flexible board, they are preferably aligned with the end faces of the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301 respectively, which can prevent the protrusion of the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 from affecting the detection accuracy of the image detector 6.

[0082] Preferably, the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 can be further provided with adsorption magnets, and the first jig plate 201 and the second jig plate 301 are provided with corresponding adsorption blocks, such as iron, that can be attracted by the adsorption magnets. This allows the adsorption magnets to be magnetically attracted and fixed to the adsorption blocks when the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are flipped over to cover the multilayer FPC flexible board. This avoids the inertia and shaking that occur during the movement, which could cause the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 to shake and sway slightly, resulting in a loose gap and positional displacement of the multilayer FPC flexible board that is covered.

[0083] More preferably, both the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301 are provided with a plurality of positioning pins 12, and both the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are provided with clearance holes corresponding to the plurality of positioning pins 12. The plurality of positioning pins 12 are arranged along the edge of the multilayer FPC flexible board. When the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are closed on the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301 and press against the multilayer FPC flexible board, the clearance holes coincide with the positioning pins 12. Figure 4 As shown, the number of positioning PIN12 is 4 on the first fixture plate 201 and 6 on the second fixture plate 301.

[0084] The use of multiple positioning pins 12 ensures that the circuit board can be placed in the same position on the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301 during each test, ensuring the consistency and comparability of the test results. It can also quickly position the multilayer FPC board in the correct position, reducing operation time and complexity. At the same time, it can keep the multilayer FPC board stable on the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301, reducing the test error caused by displacement of the multilayer FPC board when the first fixture plate 201 and the second fixture plate 301 move or vibrate.

[0085] Furthermore, when the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 are closed, soft rubber strips 15 are provided at the ends of the contact surfaces with the multilayer FPC flexible board.

[0086] The edge of the soft rubber strip 15 is aligned with the edge of the non-detection part of the multilayer FPC flexible board near the separation part. By pressing the soft rubber strip 15, the local stress generated between the edge of the separation part and the non-detection part can be dispersed when the separation part forms an arch shape, reducing stress concentration and thus reducing damage to the multilayer FPC flexible board caused by bending. At the same time, the soft rubber strip 15 can also prevent the FPC flexible board from directly contacting the surface of the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302 during bending, thus avoiding the appearance of scratches.

[0087] Preferably, a steel clamp is installed at the edge of the non-detection part of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board near the separation part, wherein the edge of the flexible strip 15 extends beyond the steel clamp by 0.1mm to avoid affecting the detection of the separation part. At the same time, it can effectively reduce the wear and tear between the edge and the steel clamp during the formation of the arch shape of the separation part, providing additional protection to prevent the edge of the steel clamp from cutting or scratching the circuit flexible circuit board.

[0088] In an embodiment of this solution, a material shortage sensor 13 and a flip cover sensor 14 are provided on the side of the first fixture plate 201 away from the first flip cover 202, and the first fixture plate 201 has through holes corresponding to the material shortage sensor 13 and the flip cover sensor 14.

[0089] Among them, the material shortage sensor 13 is located in the overlapping area of ​​the first flip cover 202 and the multi-layer FPC flexible board, and the flip cover sensor 14 is located in the area outside the overlapping area of ​​the first flip cover 202 and the multi-layer FPC flexible board after the first flip cover 202 covers the multi-layer FPC flexible board.

[0090] Similarly, the second fixture plate 301 can be equipped with a material shortage sensor 13 and a flip-top sensor 14 similar to the first fixture plate 201, which will not be elaborated on here.

[0091] The first jig plate 201 and the second jig plate 301 are each provided with a material shortage sensor 13 and a flip cover sensor 14 on the side away from the first flip cover 202 and the second flip cover 302. The first jig plate 201 and the second jig plate 301 are each provided with perforations corresponding to the material shortage sensor 13 and the flip cover sensor 14.

[0092] Specifically, during the inspection of multi-layer FPC flexible boards, the material shortage sensor 13 can detect whether a multi-layer FPC flexible board is placed on the first fixture plate 201, and the flip sensor 14 can detect whether the first flip cover 202 covers the multi-layer FPC flexible board. When both the material shortage sensor 13 and the flip sensor 14 detect the object, the equipment is started to perform the inspection work by pressing the start button. Similarly, the material shortage sensor 13 can detect whether a multi-layer FPC flexible board is placed on the second fixture plate 301, and the flip sensor 14 can detect whether the second flip cover 302 covers the multi-layer FPC flexible board. Further details are omitted here.

[0093] In an embodiment of this solution, the first fixture plate 201 or the second fixture plate 301 is provided with an identification hole corresponding to the identification code of the multilayer FPC flexible board. The first fixture plate 201 or the second fixture plate 301 is also equipped with a barcode scanner 16. The barcode scanner 16 scans and records the identification code of the multilayer FPC flexible board through the identification hole.

[0094] Specifically, before the inspection begins, the barcode scanner 16 is used to scan the identification code (barcode or QR code) on the multilayer FPC flexible board, read the unique identifier of the multilayer FPC flexible board, associate the read identifier with the inspection result, and automatically record it in the inspection system. After the inspection result is obtained, the inspection result is input into the inspection system, associated with the unique identifier of the multilayer FPC flexible board, and finally the data is stored in the database.

[0095] This enables automated data recording, reduces errors and time spent on manual recording, improves testing efficiency, and facilitates centralized management of testing data, making it easier to query and analyze, which is beneficial for quality control and continuous improvement.

[0096] Please see Figure 1-11 Based on the above embodiments, this embodiment also proposes a separation detection method for detecting separated multilayer FPC flexible boards. The method includes:

[0097] A reference is created by template matching using the fixed feature positions of the first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3. After the algorithm finds the template, the matching position generates reference point one corresponding to the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture 2 and reference point two corresponding to the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture 3. Figure 5The first clamping fixture 2 and the second clamping fixture 3 shown have protruding fixed features on opposite sides. The visual algorithm finds the two fixed features by capturing images captured by the detector 6 and matches them to generate the first reference point and the second reference point.

[0098] Based on reference point one, a distance offset is made, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture 2, the offset distance is 0.05mm. The root search area one is generated by algorithm matching. Based on reference point two, a distance offset is made, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture 3, the offset distance is 0.05mm. The root search area four is generated by algorithm matching. After finding area one and area four, the thickness of the FPC flexible board in area one and area four is measured by edge pair, and only the width of the first pair of edge pairs is searched. The upper and lower limits of the FPC flexible board thickness tolerance are set to determine whether the multilayer FPC flexible boards are bonded.

[0099] Based on reference point one and reference point two, the positioning is matched, the arc angle is found, and edge pairs with the same angle are generated according to the real-time arc angle to measure area two and area three. The measurement area can be moved or added according to the actual working conditions. The edge pair width measurement algorithm outputs the PFC flexible board thickness of area two and area three. The upper and lower limits of the PFC flexible board thickness tolerance are set to determine whether the multi-layer FPC flexible boards are bonded.

[0100] In Zones 1, 2, 3, and 4, if the measured product thickness is the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is considered OK for separation. If the measured product thickness is the thickness of two or three layers of FPC, which is greater than the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is considered NG. The thickness of the FPC flexible board with OK separation is 0.05mm, and the thickness of the FPC flexible board with NG separation is 0.1mm for two layers and 0.15mm for three layers. In other words, if the thickness of the FPC flexible board is greater than 0.05mm, it is considered NG.

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown, the visual algorithm uses the distance offset between the first and second reference points to match and generate Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, and Region 4. During the first detection, after the upper layer of the separation part is separated by adsorption and pulling of the separation device, the thickness of the FPC flexible board in Region 1 and Region 4 is measured using the edge pair measurement algorithm. For Region 2 and Region 3, the measurement area is captured in real time according to the arc angle formed by the upper layer, and then the thickness of the FPC flexible board in Region 2 and Region 3 is measured again using the edge pair measurement algorithm. Finally, the upper and middle layers of FPC flexible boards are judged to be completely separated according to the set upper and lower limits of the flexible board thickness. That is, the FPC flexible board thickness in Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, and Region 4 is judged to be OK if the thickness of the FPC flexible board does not exceed 0.05mm of a single layer, and NG if the thickness is greater than 0.05mm.

[0102] like Figure 7 As shown, a second test is then performed. After the lower layer of the multi-layer FPC flexible board is separated by adsorption and pulling using a separation device, the thickness of the FPC flexible board in Region 1 and Region 4 is measured using an edge pair measurement algorithm. For Region 2 and Region 3, the measurement area is captured in real time based on the arc angle formed by the lower layer. Then, the thickness of the FPC flexible board in Region 2 and Region 3 is measured again using the edge pair measurement algorithm. Finally, the lower and middle layers of the FPC flexible board are judged to be completely separated based on the set upper and lower tolerance limits of the flexible board thickness. That is, the FPC flexible board thickness in Region 1, Region 2, Region 3 and Region 4 is judged to be OK if the thickness of the FPC flexible board does not exceed 0.05mm of a single layer, and NG if the thickness is greater than 0.05mm.

[0103] Finally, based on the results of the two tests, a final conclusion is drawn: if the measurement results for regions one, two, three, and four are all OK in both tests, it indicates that the layers in the separation section of the multilayer FPC flexible board have been completely separated. Figure 8 The diagram shows a confirmed OK result for the separation of layers in a multilayer FPC flexible circuit board. If at least one measurement result in regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 from two separate tests indicates that the layers in the separation section of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board are not completely separated. Figure 9-11 The diagram shown illustrates a no-go (NG) test for incomplete separation of a multilayer FPC flexible circuit board.

[0104] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered in all respects as exemplary and non-limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within the present invention. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing device, characterized in that, include: The arching mechanism includes a first clamping fixture, a second clamping fixture, and a first moving module. The first and second clamping fixtures are used to clamp the two ends of the multilayer FPC flexible board, so that a detection area of ​​the multilayer FPC flexible board is formed between the first and second clamping fixtures. The first moving module is used to drive the first clamping fixture to move towards the second clamping fixture, so that the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area forms an arch shape. The adsorption separation mechanism includes a third moving module, which is connected to a first adsorption element. The third moving module is used to drive the first adsorption element close to the detection area and adsorb the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board, and then move away from the detection area to separate the surface layer of the multilayer FPC flexible board. The imaging detector is used to capture and detect the separation state of the multilayer FPC flexible circuit board in the detection area after separation. The pushing mechanism further includes a second moving module for driving the second clamping fixture to move towards the first clamping fixture. The first moving module and the second moving module respectively drive the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture, so that the first clamping fixture and the second clamping fixture can move closer to each other or further away from each other. The adsorption separation mechanism also includes a fourth moving module and a second adsorption component that are arranged opposite to the third moving module and the first adsorption component. The third moving module and the fourth moving module can respectively drive the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component to approach the detection area to adsorb the surface FPC flexible board on both opposite sides of the multilayer FPC flexible board. When the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area is in a flat state, the third moving module drives the first adsorption member to first contact and adsorb one side of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area, or the fourth moving module drives the second adsorption member to first contact and adsorb the other side of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area. As the first and second moving modules drive the first and second clamping fixtures to move closer to each other, the third moving module drives the first adsorption component to move away from the detection area, or the fourth moving module drives the second adsorption component to move away from the detection area, thereby controlling the arching direction of the multilayer FPC flexible board in the detection area.

2. The FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first and second adsorption components include a suction rod and a suction nozzle; The suction rod is a telescopic suction rod.

3. The FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first clamping fixture includes a first fixture plate and a first flip cover that is folded together by a rotating connection structure. The second clamping fixture includes a second fixture plate and a second flip cover that is folded and connected to the second fixture plate by a rotating connection structure.

4. The FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first fixture plate and the second fixture plate are each provided with a plurality of positioning pins. The first flip cover and the second flip cover are each provided with clearance holes corresponding to the plurality of positioning pins, and the plurality of positioning pins are provided along the edge of the multilayer FPC flexible board.

5. The FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first and second flip covers have soft rubber strips at the ends of their contact surfaces with the multilayer FPC flexible board when closed.

6. The FPC flexible circuit board separation and testing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first fixture plate is provided with a material shortage sensor and a flip cover sensor on the side away from the first flip cover, and the first fixture plate has through holes corresponding to the material shortage sensor and the flip cover sensor. The material shortage sensor is located in the area where the first flip cover overlaps with the multi-layer FPC flexible board, and the flip cover sensor is located in the area outside the area where the first flip cover covers the multi-layer FPC flexible board but does not overlap with it.

7. A separation and detection method, characterized in that, The method for testing separated multilayer FPC flexible boards using the FPC flexible board separation and testing equipment described in any one of claims 1-6 includes: The algorithm creates a reference by matching the fixed feature positions of the first and second clamping fixtures. After finding the template, the matching position generates the reference point one corresponding to the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture and the reference point two corresponding to the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture. Based on reference point one, distance offset is performed, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the first clamping fixture, the root search area one is generated by algorithm matching. Based on reference point two, distance offset is performed, and then at a certain distance from the fixed feature position of the second clamping fixture, the root search area four is generated by algorithm matching. After finding area one and area four, the thickness of the FPC flexible board is measured using edge pairs, and only the width of the first pair of edge pairs is searched. By setting the upper and lower limits of the FPC flexible board thickness tolerance, it is determined whether the multilayer FPC flexible boards are bonded. Based on reference point one and reference point two, the positioning is matched and the arc angle is found. Based on the real-time arc angle, edge pairs with the same angle are generated to measure area two and area three. The measurement area can be moved or added according to the actual working conditions. The edge pair width measurement algorithm outputs the FPC flexible board thickness of area two and area three. The upper and lower limits of FPC flexible board thickness tolerance are set to determine whether the multi-layer FPC flexible boards are bonded. In this case, if the product thickness measured in Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, and Zone 4 is the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is judged as OK. If the product thickness measured is the thickness of two or three layers of FPC, which is greater than the thickness of a single-layer FPC, it is judged as NG.

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