Dual track printing apparatus and method

Abstract

This application discloses a dual-track printing equipment and method. The dual-track printing equipment includes: a plate inlet; a first printing machine, including a first printing track and a first plate guide track; a transfer dock, including a first connecting track and a second connecting track; a second printing machine, including a second plate guide track and a second printing track; and a plate outlet. The first printing machine is equipped with a first control module for controlling the operation of the first printing track, the first connecting track, and the second plate guide track respectively; the second printing machine is equipped with a second control module for controlling the operation of the first plate guide track, the second connecting track, and the second printing track respectively. This application, through the division of labor and cooperation between the first and second control modules, ensures precise control of each track operation while avoiding the risk of overall machine downtime due to a single printing machine malfunction, thus improving printing efficiency and reliability. By setting up a transfer dock, maintenance space is increased, system downtime is significantly reduced, and production continuity and maintenance convenience are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of SMT surface mount technology, and more particularly to a dual-track printing equipment and method. Background Technology

[0002] Solder paste printing is a core process in SMT production. Its printing accuracy, production continuity, and changeover efficiency directly determine the overall capacity and yield of the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) production line. To improve PCB processing capacity per unit time, the industry widely adopts a dual-track printer layout, where two printers work in parallel to achieve synchronous printing of dual-track PCBs, adapting to the needs of large-scale PCB production.

[0003] However, the existing dual-track printing press's side-to-side printing mode has significant defects and shortcomings in actual production: First, the equipment has extremely poor fault tolerance; a single machine failure can easily lead to a complete line shutdown. Because the two printing presses are closely spaced, when one of them fails, not only can that machine not complete its printing operation, but the PCB boards processed by the other printing press also cannot complete the board transfer process. Ultimately, this results in both printing presses being unable to operate normally, severely disrupting the continuous operation capability of the production line. At the same time, the close proximity of the two machines means that the faulty equipment must be pulled out of the line for inspection and maintenance, making maintenance difficult and causing long downtime, further reducing production efficiency.

[0004] Secondly, the automation level of product changeover is low, and fully automated line switching cannot be achieved. Significant manual intervention is required, and line switching is time-consuming, making it unsuitable for the flexible production needs of multi-variety, small-batch PCBs, severely restricting the automation level of the production line. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a dual-track printing equipment and method, which solves the problems of existing dual-track printing machines in side-by-side printing mode, where single-machine failure can easily lead to the shutdown of both printing machines, inconvenient equipment maintenance and operation, and poor continuous operation capability of the production line; at the same time, it cannot achieve fully automatic linkage line change, requires a lot of manual intervention, and has insufficient equipment automation rate.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is to provide a dual-track printing equipment, comprising: a board inlet for receiving PCB boards to be processed; a first printing machine including a longitudinally arranged first printing rail and a first board guide rail, the first printing rail and the first board guide rail being respectively connected to the board inlet, the first printing rail being used for transporting, fixing and carrying the PCB board, and the first board guide rail being used for transporting the PCB board; a transfer dock including a longitudinally arranged first docking rail and a second docking rail, the first docking rail being movably connected to the first printing rail, and the second docking rail being movably connected to the first board guide rail, both the first docking rail and the second docking rail being used for transporting PCB boards; and a second printing machine including a longitudinally arranged second board guide rail and a second printing rail, the second board guide rail being movably connected to the first docking rail, and the second printing rail being movably connected to the second docking rail. The system consists of a movable track, a second PCB conveyor track for transporting PCBs, and a second printing track for transporting, fixing, and supporting PCBs. An output port connects to both the second PCB conveyor track and the second printing track, outputting the finished PCBs. The inlet, first printing machine, transfer dock, second printing machine, and output port are arranged sequentially along the PCB transport direction. The first printing machine is equipped with a first control module, which is electrically connected to the first printing track, the first transfer track, and the second PCB conveyor track, controlling their operation. The second printing machine is equipped with a second control module, which is also electrically connected to the first PCB conveyor track, the second transfer track, and the second printing track, controlling their operation as well.

[0007] In some embodiments, a board feeding dock is further included. The board feeding dock is disposed between the board inlet and the first printing machine. The board feeding dock includes a first board feeding rail and a second board feeding rail arranged longitudinally. The board feeding end of the first board feeding rail is connected to the board inlet, and the board output end of the first board feeding rail is movably connected to the first printing rail. The board feeding end of the second board feeding rail is connected to the board inlet, and the board output end of the second board feeding rail is movably connected to the first board conveyor rail. Both the first board feeding rail and the second board feeding rail are used to transport PCB boards.

[0008] In some embodiments, a board ejection docking station is further included. The board ejection docking station is disposed between the second printing press and the board ejection port. The board ejection docking station includes a first board ejection rail and a second board ejection rail arranged longitudinally. The board inlet end of the first board ejection rail is movably connected to the second board ejection rail, and the board ejection end of the first board ejection rail is connected to the board ejection port. The board inlet end of the second board ejection rail is movably connected to the second printing rail, and the board ejection end of the second board ejection rail is connected to the board ejection port. Both the first board ejection rail and the second board ejection rail are used to transport PCB boards.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first printing machine further includes a first operating table, which is disposed above the first printing rail and electrically connected to the first control module. The first operating table is used for printing PCB boards. The second printing machine further includes a second operating table, which is disposed above the second printing rail and electrically connected to the second control module. The second operating table is used for printing PCB boards.

[0010] In some embodiments, a first barcode scanning and recognition module is provided at the exit end of the first board inlet rail, and a second barcode scanning and recognition module is provided at the exit end of the second board inlet rail. The first barcode scanning and recognition module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the second barcode scanning and recognition module is electrically connected to the second control module. Both the first barcode scanning and recognition module and the second barcode scanning and recognition module are used to scan and recognize the QR code on the PCB board in front of the printed PCB board.

[0011] In some embodiments, a detection module is further included. The detection module is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The detection module is used to detect whether there is a PCB board on the first board guide rail, the first connecting rail, the second connecting rail, and the second board guide rail respectively.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first printing press is equipped with a first track adjustment mechanism, which is electrically connected to a first control module and a second control module, and is also connected to a first printing track and a first guide track, and is used to adjust the width of the first printing track and the first guide track; a second track adjustment mechanism is installed on the transfer dock, which is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module, and is also connected to a first connecting track and a second connecting track, and is used to adjust the width of the first connecting track and the second connecting track; the second printing press is equipped with a third track adjustment mechanism, which is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module, and is also connected to a second guide track and a second printing track, and is used to adjust the width of the second guide track and the second printing track.

[0013] This invention also provides a dual-track printing method, applied to the aforementioned dual-track printing equipment. The method includes a first-path printing method and / or a second-path printing method. The first-path printing method includes the following steps: S1: A first PCB board flows through the inlet to the first inlet rail, where it is scanned for identification and in-station verification; S2: A first control module receives a first printing instruction, retrieves the target printing program, and controls the first printing rail to adjust its working state; the first PCB board is transferred to the first printing rail, and the first control module controls the first operating table to print on the first PCB board, while simultaneously activating the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail; S3: After the first PCB board printing is completed, out-of-station verification is performed; when the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the first connecting rail; S4: The first control module activates the track width adjustment thread of the second board-passing rail, and after the track width adjustment thread of the second board-passing rail is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the second board-passing rail; S5: The first control module receives a first out-of-board instruction. After the command, the first PCB board is transferred to the exit port via the first exit rail to complete the board exit; the second path printing method includes the following steps: T1: The second PCB board flows to the second entry rail via the entry port, and is scanned and verified on the second entry rail; T2: The second control module receives the second printing command, retrieves the target printing program, and starts the track width adjustment thread of the first board entry rail; after the track width adjustment thread of the first board entry rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the first board entry rail, and the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is started at the same time; T3: when the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the second connecting rail, and the second control module controls the second printing rail to adjust its working state; T4: the second PCB board is transferred to the second printing rail, and the second control module controls the second operating table to print on the second PCB board; T5: after the second PCB board is printed, exit verification is performed; after receiving the second board exit command, the second control module transfers the second PCB board to the exit port via the second exit rail to complete the board exit.

[0014] In some embodiments, the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail includes: receiving a first connecting rail width adjustment signal, detecting whether there is a PCB board on the first connecting rail; if there is, waiting for the PCB board on the first connecting rail to be ejected; if not, adjusting the track width of the first connecting rail; after adjustment, outputting a width adjustment completion signal, and simultaneously outputting a second board-passing rail width adjustment signal; the track width adjustment thread of the second board-passing rail includes: receiving a second board-passing rail width adjustment signal, detecting whether there is a PCB board on the second board-passing rail; if there is, waiting for the PCB board on the second board-passing rail to be ejected; if not, adjusting the track width of the second board-passing rail; after adjustment, outputting a width adjustment completion signal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail includes: receiving a first board guide rail width adjustment signal, detecting whether there is a PCB board on the first board guide rail; if there is, waiting for the PCB board on the first board guide rail to exit; if not, adjusting the track width of the first board guide rail; after adjustment, outputting a width adjustment completion signal, and simultaneously outputting a second connecting rail width adjustment signal; the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail includes: receiving a second connecting rail width adjustment signal, detecting whether there is a PCB board on the second connecting rail; if there is, waiting for the PCB board on the second connecting rail to exit; if not, adjusting the track width of the second connecting rail; after adjustment, outputting a width adjustment completion signal.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this application are: 1. Significantly improves the fault tolerance and continuous operation stability of the production line. This invention adds a transfer station between two printing presses and adopts a cross-control logic architecture. The first control module of the first printing press controls the power and signals of its own first printing rail, the second board guide rail of the second printing press, and the first transfer rail. The second control module of the second printing press controls the power and signals of its own second printing rail, the first board guide rail of the first printing press, and the second transfer rail. When one printing press fails, the control module of the other printing press can still control the corresponding board guide rail and transfer rail normally, ensuring the normal operation of its printing and PCB board board process, and completely avoiding the problem of the entire line being shut down due to a single machine failure. At the same time, the transfer station added between the two printing presses provides ample space for maintenance operations. The faulty machine can be inspected and repaired without dragging the equipment out of the line, which greatly reduces the difficulty of maintenance, shortens the downtime, and significantly improves production efficiency.

[0017] 2. Achieve fully automated, linked line changeover for product switching, improving equipment automation. This invention optimizes the automatic line changeover control logic, linking core processes such as PCB board barcode verification, automatic printing program invocation, automatic ejector pin retraction and extension, automatic track width adjustment, and automatic stencil replacement. While the printing press performs printing track line changeover adjustments, it simultaneously triggers the width adjustment threads of downstream connecting rails and corresponding board-passing rails, achieving synchronous linkage of track adjustments throughout the dual-track printing process. The entire line changeover process requires no manual intervention, automatically completing product program switching and full track adaptation adjustments, significantly reducing product changeover time. It perfectly adapts to the flexible production needs of multi-variety, small-batch PCBs, significantly improving the automation level of the production line. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention 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.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dual-track printing device according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the first path printing method in a dual-track printing method of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of the second path printing method in a dual-track printing method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 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, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. 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.

[0021] It should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "adjacent to," "connected to," or "coupled to" other components or layers, it may be directly on, adjacent to, connected to, or coupled to other components or layers, or there may be intervening components or layers. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly on," "directly adjacent to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" other components or layers, there are no intervening components or layers.

[0022] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or portion from another element, component, area, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this invention, the first element, component, area, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or portion.

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the dual-track printing equipment of the present invention includes an inlet, a first printing machine 1, a transfer dock 3, a second printing machine 2, and an outlet arranged sequentially along the transmission direction of the PCB board.

[0024] The inlet is used to receive PCB boards to be processed. The first printing machine 1 includes a vertically arranged first printing rail 11 and a first board-passing rail 12, which are respectively connected to the inlet. The first printing rail 11 is used to transport, fix, and support the PCB board, and the first board-passing rail 12 is used to transport the PCB board. The transfer dock 3 includes a vertically arranged first connecting rail 31 and a second connecting rail 32. The first connecting rail 31 is movably connected to the first printing rail 11, and the second connecting rail 32 is movably connected to the first board-passing rail 12. Both the first connecting rail 31 and the second connecting rail 32 are used to transport PCB boards. The second printing machine 2 includes a vertically arranged second board-passing rail 21 and a second printing rail 22. The second board-passing rail 21 is movably connected to the first connecting rail 31, and the second printing rail 22 is movably connected to the second connecting rail 32. The second board-passing rail 21 is used to transport the PCB board, and the second printing rail 22 is used to transport, fix, and support the PCB board. The output port is connected to the second guide rail 21 and the second printing rail 22 respectively, and is used to output the processed PCB board.

[0025] Furthermore, the first printing press 1 is equipped with a first control module, which is electrically connected to the first printing rail 11, the first connecting rail 31, and the second guide rail 21, respectively. The first control module is used to control the operation of the first printing rail 11, the first connecting rail 31, and the second guide rail 21, respectively. The second printing press 2 is equipped with a second control module, which is electrically connected to the first guide rail 12, the second connecting rail 32, and the second printing rail 22, respectively. The second control module is used to control the operation of the first guide rail 12, the second connecting rail 32, and the second printing rail 22, respectively.

[0026] The dual-track printing equipment of this application controls the operation of the first printing track 11, the first connecting track 31 of the first printing machine 1, and the second board guide track 21 of the second printing machine 2 involved in the first printing path through a first control module, so that the PCB board can be printed normally along the first printing path without being affected. It also controls the operation of the first board guide track 12, the second connecting track 32 of the first printing machine 1, and the second printing track 22 of the second printing machine 2 involved in the second printing path through a second control module, so that the PCB board can be printed normally along the second printing path without being affected. The two paths are independent of each other and do not affect each other. When one printing machine malfunctions and cannot print, it does not affect the normal operation of the other printing machine on the other printing path. Through the division of labor and cooperation between the first and second control modules, precise control of each track operation is ensured, and the risk of overall shutdown due to a single printing machine failure is avoided, thus optimizing the reliability of the equipment and greatly improving printing efficiency. Meanwhile, by setting up a transfer dock 3 between the first printing machine 1 and the second printing machine 2, when a device on one printing path needs maintenance, there is ample space for repair, eliminating the need to remove it from the production line. Devices on the other printing path can continue normal printing operations, significantly reducing system downtime and improving production continuity and maintenance convenience. This application effectively improves printing efficiency and product quality by rationally planning the board feeding, printing, transfer, and board output processes, meeting the needs of large-scale industrial production.

[0027] The following is combined Figures 1 to 3 The present application will be further described in detail with reference to specific embodiments.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, this application also includes a board feeding dock 4, which is disposed between the board inlet and the first printing machine 1. The board feeding dock 4 includes a first board feeding rail 41 and a second board feeding rail 42 arranged longitudinally.

[0029] The first board inlet rail 41 has its board inlet end connected to the board inlet, and its board outlet end connected to the first printing rail 11. The second board inlet rail 42 has its board inlet end connected to the board inlet, and its board outlet end connected to the first board guide rail 12. Both the first board inlet rail 41 and the second board inlet rail 42 are used to transport PCB boards.

[0030] Furthermore, a first barcode scanning module is provided at the exit end of the first infeed rail 41, and a second barcode scanning module is provided at the exit end of the second infeed rail 42. The first barcode scanning module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the second barcode scanning module is electrically connected to the second control module. Both the first and second barcode scanning modules are used to scan and recognize the QR code on the PCB board before printing, verifying whether it is the target PCB board model corresponding to the current printing task.

[0031] Furthermore, this application also includes a plate ejection docking station 5, which is disposed between the second printing press 2 and the plate ejection port. The plate ejection docking station 5 includes a first plate ejection rail 51 and a second plate ejection rail 52 arranged longitudinally.

[0032] The first board exit rail 51 has its board inlet end connected to the second board through rail 21, and its board exit end is connected to the board exit port. The second board exit rail 52 has its board inlet end connected to the second printing rail 22, and its board exit end is connected to the board exit port. Both the first board exit rail 51 and the second board exit rail 52 are used to transport PCB boards.

[0033] Furthermore, the five board output docking stations are equipped with outgoing verification modules to check whether the printing quality of the PCB boards meets the standards. If the quality meets the standards, the boards are output normally; if the quality does not meet the standards, they are diverted to the defective products area to ensure the pass rate of the products leaving the factory.

[0034] Furthermore, this application also includes a detection module, which is installed inside the dual-track printing equipment. The detection module is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module, respectively. The detection module is used to detect whether there are PCB boards on the first board-passing track 12, the first connecting track 31, the second connecting track 32, and the second board-passing track 21. When there are still PCB boards on the tracks, the detection module sends a track occupancy signal to the corresponding control module. The control module suspends the currently executed track width adjustment or transmission command and enters a waiting state. After the detection module detects that the PCB board on the track has completely exited, it sends a track free signal. The control module resumes the execution of the original command and continues to complete the track width adjustment or PCB board transmission process, ensuring the safety of track operation and the continuity of the process, and avoiding PCB board collisions or equipment failures due to track occupancy.

[0035] In this embodiment, the first printing machine 1 further includes a first operating table 13, which is disposed above the first printing rail 11. The first operating table 13 is electrically connected to the first control module and is used to print PCB boards.

[0036] As an example, the first printing machine 1 is equipped with a first track adjustment mechanism. The first track adjustment mechanism is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The first track adjustment mechanism is connected to the first printing track 11 and the first board guide track 12 respectively. The first track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the first printing track 11 and the first board guide track 12 to accommodate PCB boards of different models and sizes.

[0037] As an example, the transfer dock 3 is equipped with a second track adjustment mechanism. The second track adjustment mechanism is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The second track adjustment mechanism is connected to the first connecting rail 31 and the second connecting rail 32 respectively. The second track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the first connecting rail 31 and the second connecting rail 32 to accommodate PCB boards of different models and sizes.

[0038] In this embodiment, the second printing machine 2 further includes a second operating table 23, which is disposed above the second printing rail 22. The second operating table 23 is electrically connected to the second control module and is used to print PCB boards.

[0039] As an example, the second printing press 2 is equipped with a third track adjustment mechanism. The third track adjustment mechanism is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module, respectively. The third track adjustment mechanism is connected to the second guide rail 21 and the second printing rail 22, respectively. The third track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the second guide rail 21 and the second printing rail 22 to accommodate PCB boards of different models and sizes.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first feed rail 41 and the second feed rail 42 are parallel to each other; the first printing rail 11 and the first guide rail 12 are parallel to each other; the first connecting rail 31 and the second connecting rail 32 are parallel to each other; the second guide rail 21 and the second printing rail 22 are parallel to each other; and the first exit rail 51 and the second exit rail 52 are parallel to each other.

[0041] In summary, as Figure 1 As shown, the workflow of the dual-track printing equipment of this application is as follows: Print along the first printing path: First, the first PCB board 6 flows through the inlet to the first inlet rail 41 of the inlet docking station 4. The first barcode scanning module scans and identifies the barcode on the first inlet rail 41, and uploads the identification result to the system's data center for inlet verification.

[0042] After the data center verifies the print job, it sends a first printing instruction to the corresponding first control module. Based on the first printing instruction, the first control module automatically retrieves the target printing program for the first PCB board 6 and controls the first printing track 11 of the first printing machine 1 to adjust its working state. This adjustment includes automatically raising and lowering the ejector pins, automatically adjusting the track width, and automatically changing the stencil.

[0043] Furthermore, after the adjustment is completed, the first PCB board 6 is transferred to the first printing rail 11; the first control module controls the first operating table 13 to print on the first PCB board 6, and at the same time starts the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail 31 of the transfer connecting table 3.

[0044] Specifically, the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting track 31 includes: The first control module sends a width adjustment signal for the first connecting rail 31 to the second track adjustment mechanism and the detection module. Subsequently, the detection module checks whether a PCB board is on the first connecting rail 31. If so, it waits for the PCB board to exit the first connecting rail 31; otherwise, the second track adjustment mechanism adjusts the width of the first connecting rail 31 to match the current width of the first PCB board 6. After the second track adjustment mechanism completes the adjustment, it outputs a width adjustment completion signal and simultaneously outputs a width adjustment signal for the second board-passing rail 21.

[0045] Furthermore, after the first PCB board 6 is printed, it is uploaded to the data center for outbound verification. Once the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail 31 is completed and the outbound verification of the data center is qualified, the first PCB board 6 is transmitted to the first connecting rail 31.

[0046] Furthermore, the first control module activates the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide 21 of the second printing press 2. After the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide 21 is completed, the first PCB board 6 is transferred to the second board guide 21.

[0047] Specifically, the track width adjustment thread for the second overpass track 21 includes: The third track adjustment mechanism and detection module receive the width adjustment signal from the second PCB guide rail 21. The detection module checks whether there is a PCB board on the second PCB guide rail 21. If there is, it waits for the PCB board on the second PCB guide rail 21 to be ejected; if not, the third track adjustment mechanism adjusts the track width of the second PCB guide rail 21 to match the current width of the first PCB board 6. After adjustment, it outputs a width adjustment completion signal.

[0048] Furthermore, after receiving the first board ejection command, the first control module transmits the first PCB board 6 to the ejection port via the first ejection rail 51 to complete the board ejection.

[0049] Print along the second printing path: First, the second PCB board 7 flows through the inlet to the second inlet rail 42 of the inlet docking station 4. The second barcode scanning module scans and identifies the barcode on the second inlet rail 42, and uploads the identification result to the system's data center for inlet verification.

[0050] After the data center verifies the data, it sends a second printing instruction to the corresponding second control module. The second control module automatically retrieves the target printing program for the second PCB board 7 according to the second printing instruction and starts the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail 12 of the first printing machine 1.

[0051] Specifically, the track width adjustment thread for the first track 12 includes: The second control module sends a width adjustment signal to the first guide rail 12 to the first track adjustment mechanism and the detection module. Subsequently, the detection module checks if there is a PCB board on the first guide rail 12. If there is, it waits for the PCB board on the first guide rail 12 to be ejected; if not, the first track adjustment mechanism adjusts the width of the first guide rail 12 to match the current width of the second PCB board 7. Then, after the first track adjustment mechanism completes the adjustment, it outputs a width adjustment completion signal and simultaneously outputs a width adjustment signal for the second connecting rail 32.

[0052] Furthermore, after the track width adjustment thread of the first board-passing rail 12 is completed, the second PCB board 7 is transferred to the first board-passing rail 12, and at the same time, the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail 32 of the transfer connecting platform 3 is started.

[0053] Specifically, the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail 32 includes: The second track adjustment mechanism and detection module receive the width adjustment signal of the second connecting rail 32. The detection module detects whether there is a PCB board on the second connecting rail 32. If there is, it waits for the PCB board on the second connecting rail 32 to be unloaded; if not, the second track adjustment mechanism adjusts the track width of the second connecting rail 32 to match the current width of the second PCB board 7. After adjustment, it outputs a width adjustment completion signal.

[0054] Furthermore, after the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail 32 is completed, the second PCB board 7 is transferred to the second connecting rail 32. The second control module controls the second printing rail 22 of the second printing machine 2 to adjust its working state. The adjustment of the working state includes automatic retraction and extension of ejector pins, automatic adjustment of track width, and automatic replacement of stencil.

[0055] Furthermore, after the adjustment is completed, the second PCB board 7 is transferred to the second printing track 22; the second control module controls the second operating table 23 to print on the second PCB board 7.

[0056] Furthermore, after the second PCB board 7 is printed, it is uploaded to the data center for outbound verification. After the outbound verification is successful, the second control module receives the second outbound command and transmits the second PCB board 7 to the outbound port via the second outbound rail 52 to complete the outbound process.

[0057] The first and second printing paths of this application can operate simultaneously. However, in the event of a malfunction, such as a failure of the first printing track 11 of the first printing machine 1, the first printing path cannot function normally, but the second printing path can continue printing. Similarly, if the second printing track 22 of the second printing machine 2 fails, the second printing path cannot function normally, but the first printing path can continue printing. This effectively improves the printing efficiency and operational stability of the production line.

[0058] In summary, the beneficial effects of this application are: 1. Significantly improves the fault tolerance and continuous operation stability of the production line. This invention adds a transfer station 3 between two printing presses and adopts a cross-control logic architecture. The first control module of the first printing press 1 controls the power and signals of its first printing rail 11, the second board guide rail 21 of the second printing press 2, and the first transfer rail 31. The second control module of the second printing press 2 controls the power and signals of its second printing rail 22, the first board guide rail 12 of the first printing press 1, and the second transfer rail 32. When one printing press fails, the control module of the other printing press can still control the corresponding board guide rail and transfer rail normally, ensuring the normal operation of its printing and PCB board board process, and completely avoiding the problem of the entire line being shut down due to a single machine failure. At the same time, the transfer station 3 added between the two printing presses provides sufficient space for maintenance operations. The faulty machine can be inspected and repaired without dragging the equipment out of the line, which greatly reduces the difficulty of maintenance, shortens the downtime, and significantly improves production efficiency.

[0059] 2. Achieve fully automated, linked line changeover for product switching, improving equipment automation. This invention optimizes the automatic line changeover control logic, linking core processes such as PCB board barcode verification, automatic printing program invocation, automatic ejector pin retraction and extension, automatic track width adjustment, and automatic stencil replacement. While the printing press performs printing track line changeover adjustments, it simultaneously triggers the width adjustment threads of downstream connecting rails and corresponding board-passing rails, achieving synchronous linkage of track adjustments throughout the dual-track printing process. The entire line changeover process requires no manual intervention, automatically completing product program switching and full track adaptation adjustments, significantly reducing product changeover time. It perfectly adapts to the flexible production needs of multi-variety, small-batch PCBs, significantly improving the automation level of the production line.

[0060] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a dual-track printing method, applied to the aforementioned dual-track printing equipment, such as... Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the method includes a first path printing method and / or a second path printing method.

[0061] Among them, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first path printing method includes the following steps: S1: The first PCB board flows through the inlet to the first board inlet rail, where it is scanned for identification and verified upon entry.

[0062] S2: The first control module receives the first printing instruction, retrieves the target printing program, and controls the first printing rail to adjust its working state; the first PCB board is transferred to the first printing rail, and the first control module controls the first operating table to print on the first PCB board, while simultaneously starting the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail.

[0063] S3: After the first PCB board is printed, outgoing verification is performed; after the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the first connecting rail.

[0064] S4: The first control module starts the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide. After the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the second board guide.

[0065] S5: After receiving the first board ejection command, the first control module transmits the first PCB board to the ejection port via the first ejection rail to complete the board ejection.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the second path printing method includes the following steps: T1: The second PCB board flows through the inlet to the second board inlet rail, where it is scanned for identification and verified upon entry.

[0067] T2: The second control module receives the second printing instruction, retrieves the target printing program, and starts the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail; after the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the first board guide rail, and the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is started at the same time.

[0068] T3: After the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the second connecting rail, and the second control module controls the second printing rail to adjust its working status.

[0069] T4: The second PCB board is transferred to the second printing track, and the second control module controls the second operating table to print on the second PCB board.

[0070] T5: After the second PCB board is printed, the outgoing verification is performed; after the second control module receives the second board output command, it transmits the second PCB board to the output port via the second board output rail to complete the board output.

[0071] Furthermore, in step S2, The track width adjustment thread for the first connecting rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the first connecting rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the first connecting rail.

[0072] If yes, wait for the PCB board to be ejected from the first connecting rail; if not, adjust the width of the first connecting rail.

[0073] After adjustment, a width adjustment completion signal is output, and a second overpass rail width adjustment signal is also output.

[0074] In step S4, the track width adjustment thread for the second overpass rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the second board guide rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the second board guide rail.

[0075] If yes, wait for the PCB board to exit from the second board guide rail; if not, adjust the width of the second board guide rail.

[0076] After adjustment, output a width modulation completion signal.

[0077] In step T2, the track width adjustment thread for the first overpass rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the first board guide rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the first board guide rail.

[0078] If so, wait for the PCB board on the first board guide rail to exit; if not, adjust the width of the first board guide rail.

[0079] After adjustment is completed, a width adjustment completion signal is output, and a second rail width adjustment signal is also output.

[0080] The track width adjustment thread for the second connecting rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the second connecting rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the second connecting rail.

[0081] If yes, wait for the PCB board to be ejected from the second connecting rail; if not, adjust the width of the second connecting rail.

[0082] After adjustment, output a width modulation completion signal.

[0083] In this application, the other technical features of the above-described dual-track printing method are the same as those disclosed in the embodiments of the aforementioned dual-track printing equipment, and will not be repeated here.

[0084] Therefore, this invention discloses a dual-track printing equipment and method. The dual-track printing equipment includes: a board inlet; a first printing machine, including a longitudinally arranged first printing track and a first board guide track; a transfer dock, including a longitudinally arranged first docking track and a second docking track; a second printing machine, including a longitudinally arranged second board guide track and a second printing track; and a board outlet. The first printing machine is equipped with a first control module, which controls the operation of the first printing track, the first docking track, and the second board guide track respectively. The second printing machine is equipped with a second control module, which controls the operation of the first board guide track, the second docking track, and the second printing track respectively. The dual-track printing equipment of this application controls the operation of the first printing track, the first docking track, and the second board guide track of the first printing machine involved in the first printing path through the first control module, allowing the PCB board to complete printing normally along the first printing path without being affected; it also controls the operation of the first board guide track, the second docking track, and the second printing track of the first printing machine involved in the second printing path through the second control module, allowing the PCB board to complete printing normally along the second printing path without being affected; the two paths are independent and do not affect each other. When one printing press malfunctions and cannot print, it does not affect the normal operation of the other printing press on the other printing path. Through the division of labor and cooperation between the first and second control modules, precise control of each track operation is ensured, while avoiding the risk of a single printing press failure causing a complete shutdown, thus optimizing equipment reliability and significantly improving printing efficiency. Simultaneously, by setting up a transfer station between the first and second printing presses, when components on one printing path require maintenance, there is ample space for repairs without having to be pulled out of the production line, while components on the other printing path can continue printing normally, significantly reducing system downtime and improving production continuity and maintenance convenience. This application, through the rational planning of the board feeding, printing, transfer, and board output processes, effectively improves printing efficiency and product quality, meeting the needs of large-scale industrial production.

[0085] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A dual-track printing device, characterized in that, include: The board inlet is used to receive PCB boards to be processed. The first printing machine includes a first printing rail and a first board guide rail arranged vertically. The first printing rail and the first board guide rail are respectively connected to the board inlet. The first printing rail is used to transport, fix and carry the PCB board, and the first board guide rail is used to transport the PCB board. The transfer dock includes a first connecting rail and a second connecting rail arranged longitudinally. The first connecting rail is movably connected to the first printing rail, and the second connecting rail is movably connected to the first board-passing rail. Both the first connecting rail and the second connecting rail are used to transfer the PCB board. The second printing machine includes a second guide rail and a second printing rail arranged longitudinally. The second guide rail is movably connected to the first connecting rail, and the second printing rail is movably connected to the second connecting rail. The second guide rail is used to transport the PCB board, and the second printing rail is used to transport, fix and support the PCB board. The output port is connected to the second board guide rail and the second printing rail respectively, and is used to output the processed PCB board; The board inlet, the first printing machine, the transfer dock, the second printing machine, and the board outlet are arranged sequentially along the transmission direction of the PCB board. The first printing press is equipped with a first control module, which is electrically connected to the first printing rail, the first connecting rail and the second guide rail respectively, and is used to control the operation of the first printing rail, the first connecting rail and the second guide rail respectively. The second printing press is equipped with a second control module, which is electrically connected to the first guide rail, the second connecting rail, and the second printing rail, respectively, and is used to control the operation of the first guide rail, the second connecting rail, and the second printing rail.

2. The dual-track printing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a board feeding dock, which is disposed between the board inlet and the first printing machine. The board feeding dock includes a first board feeding rail and a second board feeding rail arranged longitudinally. The inlet end of the first inlet rail is connected to the inlet port, the outlet end of the first inlet rail is movably connected to the first printing rail, the inlet end of the second inlet rail is connected to the inlet port, and the outlet end of the second inlet rail is movably connected to the first through rail; both the first inlet rail and the second inlet rail are used to transport the PCB board.

3. The dual-track printing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a plate feeding dock, which is disposed between the second printing machine and the plate feeding port. The plate feeding dock includes a first plate feeding rail and a second plate feeding rail arranged longitudinally. The inlet end of the first board exit rail is movably connected to the second board through rail, the outlet end of the first board exit rail is connected to the outlet, the inlet end of the second board exit rail is movably connected to the second printing rail, and the outlet end of the second board exit rail is connected to the outlet; both the first board exit rail and the second board exit rail are used to transport the PCB board.

4. The dual-track printing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first printing machine further includes a first operating table, which is disposed above the first printing rail. The first operating table is electrically connected to the first control module and is used to print the PCB board. The second printing machine also includes a second operating table, which is disposed above the second printing rail. The second operating table is electrically connected to the second control module and is used to print the PCB board.

5. The dual-track printing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first board feed rail is equipped with a first barcode scanning module at its exit end, and the second board feed rail is equipped with a second barcode scanning module at its exit end. The first barcode scanning module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the second barcode scanning module is electrically connected to the second control module. Both the first and second barcode scanning modules are used to scan and recognize the QR codes on the PCB board before printing.

6. The dual-track printing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a detection module, which is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The detection module is used to detect whether the PCB board is on the first board guide rail, the first connecting rail, the second connecting rail, and the second board guide rail respectively.

7. The dual-track printing equipment according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first printing press is equipped with a first track adjustment mechanism. The first track adjustment mechanism is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The first track adjustment mechanism is connected to the first printing track and the first guide rail respectively. The first track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the first printing track and the first guide rail. The transfer platform is equipped with a second track adjustment mechanism. The second track adjustment mechanism is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module respectively. The second track adjustment mechanism is connected to the first connecting rail and the second connecting rail respectively. The second track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the first connecting rail and the second connecting rail. The second printing press is equipped with a third track adjustment mechanism, which is electrically connected to the first control module and the second control module, and is connected to the second guide rail and the second printing rail, respectively. The third track adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the width of the second guide rail and the second printing rail.

8. A dual-track printing method, characterized in that, The method is applied to the dual-track printing equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises a first path printing method and / or a second path printing method; The first path printing method includes the following steps: S1: The first PCB board flows through the inlet to the first board inlet rail, where it is scanned and verified for entry. S2: The first control module receives the first printing instruction, retrieves the target printing program, and controls the first printing rail to adjust its working state; the first PCB board is transferred to the first printing rail, and the first control module controls the first operating table to print on the first PCB board, while simultaneously starting the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail. S3: After the first PCB board is printed, outbound verification is performed; when the track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the first connecting rail. S4: The first control module starts the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide. After the track width adjustment thread of the second board guide is completed, the first PCB board is transferred to the second board guide. S5: After receiving the first board ejection command, the first control module transmits the first PCB board to the ejection port via the first board ejection rail to complete the board ejection. The second path printing method includes the following steps: T1: The second PCB board flows through the inlet to the second inlet rail, where it is scanned and verified upon entry. T2: The second control module receives the second printing instruction, retrieves the target printing program, and starts the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail; after the track width adjustment thread of the first board guide rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the first board guide rail, and the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is started at the same time. T3: After the track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail is completed, the second PCB board is transferred to the second connecting rail, and the second control module controls the second printing rail to adjust its working status; T4: The second PCB board is transferred to the second printing track, and the second control module controls the second operating table to print on the second PCB board; T5: After the second PCB board is printed, an outgoing verification is performed; after receiving the second outgoing command, the second control module transmits the second PCB board to the outgoing port via the second outgoing rail to complete the outgoing process.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The track width adjustment thread of the first connecting rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the first connecting rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the first connecting rail; If yes, wait for the PCB board on the first connecting rail to be ejected; if not, adjust the width of the first connecting rail. After adjustment is completed, a width adjustment completion signal is output, and a second overpass rail width adjustment signal is also output. The second track width adjustment thread for the over-plate rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the second board guide rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the second board guide rail; If yes, wait for the PCB board on the second board guide rail to exit; if no, adjust the width of the second board guide rail. After adjustment, output a width modulation completion signal.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first track width adjustment thread for the over-plate rail includes: Receive the first board guide width adjustment signal and detect whether there is a PCB board on the first board guide; If yes, wait for the PCB board on the first board guide rail to exit; if no, adjust the width of the first board guide rail. After adjustment is completed, a width adjustment completion signal is output, and a second rail width adjustment signal is also output. The track width adjustment thread of the second connecting rail includes: Receive the width adjustment signal of the second connecting rail and detect whether there is a PCB board on the second connecting rail; If yes, wait for the PCB board on the second connecting rail to be ejected; if not, adjust the width of the second connecting rail. After adjustment, output a width modulation completion signal.

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