A PCB board developing device

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of PCB board processing technology, specifically to a PCB board developing device, including a frame, a conveying mechanism mounted on the frame for transporting PCB boards, and a spraying mechanism mounted on the frame. The spraying mechanism has spraying components located above and below the conveying mechanism. The device is characterized by a liquid suction mechanism mounted on the frame, with several suction boxes horizontally arranged across the upper and lower sides of the conveying mechanism. Each suction box has a suction groove along its length on the side facing the conveying mechanism. Elastic sheets are arranged outwardly on both sides of the suction groove's outward opening. The two elastic sheets are in contact with each other, with suction gaps existing in some areas. The outward sides of both elastic sheets can abut against the corresponding surface of the PCB board being transported by the conveying mechanism. This PCB board developing device can efficiently remove residual developing solution from the board surface while simultaneously spraying and developing, reducing solution residue and improving developing quality and solution utilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of PCB board processing technology, and specifically to a PCB board developing device. Background Technology

[0002] In the PCB manufacturing process, development is a key step. Its function is to dissolve and remove the uncured portions of the exposed photoresist layer by spraying developing solution, thereby forming the desired circuit pattern. Currently, common developing equipment typically uses an up-and-down spray method to develop the PCB board during transport. After spraying, a large amount of developing solution remains on the board surface. If it is not removed in time, it will not only waste the solution and pollute the working environment, but may also lead to overdevelopment or leave stains after the droplets dry, affecting the pattern accuracy and board surface quality.

[0003] While existing technologies include simple liquid receiving tanks or suction ports, such as the precision developing machine disclosed in patent CN203365922U, this patent uses a suction nozzle to remove residual developing solution from the PCB board surface. However, the patent does not disclose the specific structure of the suction nozzle, and conventional suction nozzles are difficult to conform to the dynamic changes of the board surface, resulting in limited effectiveness in removing liquid films adhering to the board surface. This is especially true for uneven board surfaces, protruding components, or high-speed transport, where existing devices often suffer from incomplete liquid removal and solution waste. Therefore, this application proposes an improved design based on these issues. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome one of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a PCB board developing device. This PCB board developing device can efficiently remove residual developing solution from the board surface while spraying developing solution, reduce chemical residue, and improve developing quality and chemical utilization rate.

[0005] To solve the above problems, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0006] A PCB board developing apparatus includes a frame, a conveying mechanism mounted on the frame for conveying PCB boards, and a spraying mechanism mounted on the frame. The spraying mechanism has spraying components located above and below the conveying mechanism. The apparatus is characterized by a liquid suction mechanism mounted on the frame, with several suction boxes spanning across the upper and lower sides of the conveying mechanism. Each suction box has a suction groove along its length on the side facing the conveying mechanism. Elastic sheets are arranged outwards on both sides of the outward-opening suction groove. Two elastic sheets are in contact with each other, with suction gaps existing in certain areas. The outward-facing sides of both elastic sheets can abut against the surface of the corresponding side of the PCB board conveyed by the conveying mechanism.

[0007] In some possible implementations, the width of the elastic sheet near the discharge side of the conveying mechanism is greater than the width of the other elastic sheet. The outward sides of both elastic sheets bend and deform after contacting the surface of the PCB board being conveyed by the conveying mechanism. The bending deformation direction of the two elastic sheets is towards the output direction of the conveying mechanism.

[0008] In some possible implementations, a plurality of grooves or protrusions are provided on the side where the two elastic sheets are in contact with each other, and the length direction of the grooves or protrusions is perpendicular to the opening direction of the suction groove.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the two ends of the two elastic sheets are bonded together and fixed in place.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the liquid aspiration mechanism includes a suction pump, a collection tank, and a suction tube. The suction pump is mounted on a frame, one end of the suction tube is connected to the suction end of the suction pump, and the other end of the suction tube is connected to the suction box via a branch pipe. The discharge end of the suction pump is connected to the collection tank.

[0011] In some possible implementations, each of the branch pipes is equipped with a regulating valve.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the collection box is equipped with a filter grid, the suction pump's extraction end is inserted into the collection box through a discharge pipe, the filter grid is positioned in front of the discharge pipe, the collection box is equipped with several layers of condensation mesh above the grid, and a confluence baffle is also provided above the condensation mesh.

[0013] In some possible implementations, each of the spraying components includes a supply pipe and a plurality of spray pipes connected to the supply pipe, the supply pipe being mounted on the frame, the other end of the supply pipe in each of the spraying components being connected to a developer supply component, all the spray pipes being arranged in parallel and respectively mounted above and below the conveying mechanism, and the suction box being provided on both sides of each spray pipe.

[0014] In some possible implementations, each of the spray pipes is provided with several nozzles, and the direction of the developing solution sprayed by all the nozzles is perpendicular to the surface of the PCB board.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the conveying mechanism includes a plurality of drive rollers rotatably mounted on a frame and a drive chain that drives all of the drive rollers to rotate, wherein a conveying motor for driving the drive chain to rotate is provided on the frame.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0017] This invention features a suction box with an elastic sheet seal behind the spray area of ​​the spray mechanism. The elastic sheet flexibly abuts against the PCB board surface, creating a relatively sealed suction area between the two sheets. The elastic sheet can adapt to PCBs of varying thicknesses or slight warping, ensuring a consistent and continuous suction process. The deformable design of the elastic sheet removes developer droplets from the PCB surface, preventing residue. When the suction pump operates, negative pressure is generated through the suction gap to efficiently remove residual developer from the board surface, significantly reducing residue and dripping. Furthermore, the suction mechanism can recover the developer, which can be filtered and potentially recycled or centrally processed, saving costs and meeting environmental protection requirements.

[0018] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a front view of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a left view of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the suction box in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0023] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0024] Rack 10;

[0025] Conveying mechanism 20, drive roller 21, drive chain 22, conveyor motor 23;

[0026] Spraying mechanism 30;

[0027] Spray assembly 40, supply pipe 41, spray pipe 42, developer supply assembly 43, nozzle 44;

[0028] Liquid suction mechanism 50, suction box 51, suction groove 52, elastic sheet 53, suction slit 54, protruding rib 55, suction pump 56, collection box 57, suction pipe 58, branch pipe 59, regulating valve 5a, filter grid 5b, condensate screen 5c, manifold baffle 5d. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0030] Reference Figures 1 to 4 As shown, this utility model provides a PCB board developing device, including a frame 10, a conveying mechanism 20 disposed on the frame 10 for conveying PCB boards, and a spraying mechanism 30 disposed on the frame 10. The spraying mechanism 30 is provided with spraying components 40 above and below the conveying mechanism 20. The device is characterized in that a liquid suction mechanism 50 is provided on the frame 10. The liquid suction mechanism 50 is provided with a plurality of suction boxes 51 spanning across the upper and lower sides of the conveying mechanism 20. Each suction box 51 has a suction groove 52 along its length on the side facing the conveying mechanism 20. Elastic sheets 53 are provided on both sides of the suction groove 52 that open outward. The two elastic sheets 53 are in contact with each other and there is a suction gap 54 between some areas. The outward side of the two elastic sheets 53 can abut against the surface of the corresponding side of the PCB board conveyed by the conveying mechanism 20.

[0031] Specifically, the conveying mechanism 20 is used to carry and horizontally transport the PCB board through the spraying area and the liquid absorption area. In this application, several sets of spraying components 40 are arranged side-by-side above and below the conveying mechanism 20, and several sets of suction boxes 51 can also be arranged to further increase the liquid absorption capacity. The alternating arrangement of the spraying components 40 and suction boxes 51 can prevent the accumulation of developing liquid droplets and prevent the developing liquid spray from being absorbed by the developing liquid droplets before dissolving the light-curing layer. The suction boxes 51 of the liquid absorption mechanism 50 are arranged behind the spraying area along the conveying direction, and their number can be set according to the length of the developing section. The elastic sheet 53 is preferably made of a corrosion-resistant, wear-resistant material with a certain degree of elasticity and flexibility, such as silicone rubber, fluororubber, or polyurethane. In its natural state, the sides of the two elastic sheets 53 are pressed together, sealing the opening of the suction groove 52. When the PCB board passes through, the board surface pushes the two elastic sheets 53 outward, causing their sides to press tightly against the board surface and undergo bending deformation, thereby forming a narrow suction gap 54 extending along the board surface between the board surface and the suction box 51. The suction gap 54 is located between the mating surfaces of the two elastic sheets 53, and its width can be controlled by design to ensure that under negative pressure, the airflow can effectively drive the liquid film on the PCB board surface into the suction groove 52.

[0032] In one embodiment of this utility model, the conveying mechanism 20 includes a plurality of drive rollers 21 rotatably mounted on a frame 10 and a drive chain 22 driving all the drive rollers 21 to rotate. A conveying motor 23 is provided on the frame 10 to drive the drive chain 22 to rotate. The surface of the drive rollers 21 may be covered with corrosion-resistant rubber or plastic to provide friction and protect the bottom of the PCB board. The conveying speed can be steplessly adjusted by the conveying motor 23 to adapt to different developing time requirements. In fact, the above design is a conventional design and will not be described in detail here.

[0033] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of this utility model, the width of the elastic sheet 53 near the discharge side of the conveying mechanism 20 is greater than the width of the other elastic sheet 53. Both elastic sheets 53 bend and deform after their outward sides come into contact with the surface of the PCB board being conveyed by the conveying mechanism 20. The bending deformation direction of both elastic sheets 53 is towards the output direction of the conveying mechanism 20. It should be noted that the width direction of the elastic sheet 53 refers to the direction towards the PCB board, while the length direction of the elastic sheet 53 refers to the direction parallel to the PCB board surface and perpendicular to the PCB board conveying direction. The wider elastic sheet 53, located on the discharge side of the PCB board, has a longer cantilever structure that makes it easier to bend in a guiding manner under the push of the PCB board surface. The deformation direction is consistent with the movement direction of the PCB board, which helps guide the residual liquid to the suction gap 54 and reduces frictional resistance to the board surface.

[0034] Furthermore, each of the two elastic sheets 53 has several grooves or protrusions 55 on the side where they are attached to each other, and the length direction of the grooves or protrusions 55 is perpendicular to the opening direction of the suction groove 52. When the two elastic sheets 53 are attached, these grooves or protrusions 55 can form a series of tiny, longitudinal flow channels between their contact surfaces, and these channels together constitute the components of the suction gap 54. This design ensures that even if the elastic sheets 53 undergo slight deformation due to manufacturing tolerances or long-term use, multiple stable airflow paths can still be maintained, preventing local blockage and improving the uniformity and reliability of liquid suction.

[0035] In an optional embodiment, both ends of the two elastic sheets 53 are bonded and fixed together. Bonding and fixing ensures that the two elastic sheets 53 are tightly fitted when not in operation to prevent air leakage. At the same time, when in operation, the middle section is pushed apart by the PCB board surface while the two ends remain connected, forming a stable structure and preventing the elastic sheets 53 from folding or misaligning.

[0036] See Figure 2In one embodiment of this utility model, in order to enable the suction box 51 to provide sufficient suction force, all suction boxes 51 can be connected to an external negative pressure device. In another embodiment, the suction mechanism 50 includes a suction pump 56, a collection box 57, and suction tubes 58. The suction pump 56 is mounted on the frame 10. One end of the suction tube 58 is connected to the suction end of the suction pump 56, and the other end of the suction tube 58 is connected to all the vertically arranged suction boxes 51 via branch pipes 59. The discharge end of the suction pump 56 is connected to the collection box 57, which is used to temporarily store the recovered developer. The suction pump 56 provides a stable negative pressure source, and the suction force generated by each suction box 51 is uniformly collected through the network of pipes formed by the suction tubes 58 and branch pipes 59.

[0037] To further independently adjust the suction force of each suction box 51 to adapt to different positions or plate conditions, each of the aforementioned branch pipes 59 is equipped with an adjusting valve 5a. The adjusting valve 5a can be a manual ball valve, a needle valve, or an electric proportional valve, which facilitates precise control of the negative pressure at each suction point according to process requirements.

[0038] In terms of recycling, a filter grid 5b is installed inside the collection box 57. The suction pump 56 is inserted into the collection box 57 through a discharge pipe. The filter grid 5b is positioned in front of the discharge pipe to intercept sucked-in solid particles, such as detached photoresist debris. Several layers of condensation mesh 5c are installed above the filter grid 5b in the collection box 57, and a confluence baffle 5d is also installed above the condensation mesh 5c. The flow rate of the sucked-in mist developer decreases within the collection box 57. When it encounters the multiple layers of condensation mesh 5c, the droplets collide and condense into larger droplets before falling. The condensation mesh 5c can be made of, for example, metal wire mesh or plastic packing. The confluence baffle 5d can directly guide larger droplets entrained in the airflow to the bottom of the box, reducing secondary entrainment by the airflow, improving gas-liquid separation efficiency, making the discharged gas drier, protecting the suction pump 56, and reducing odor diffusion.

[0039] See you again Figures 1 to 4In one embodiment of this utility model, each spray assembly 40 includes a supply pipe 41 and a plurality of spray pipes 42 connected to the supply pipe 41. The supply pipe 41 is mounted on the frame 10, and the other end of the supply pipe 41 in each spray assembly 40 is connected to a common developer supply assembly 43. The developer supply assembly 43 may include a structure or supply device composed of a storage tank, a circulation pump, a heater, a filter, etc. All the spray pipes 42 are arranged in parallel and respectively mounted above and below the conveying mechanism 20, wherein the spray pipes 42 are perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveying mechanism 20, and the suction box 51 is provided on both sides of each spray pipe 42. Preferably, the spray pipe 42 and the suction box 51 are arranged alternately or in pairs, so that the PCB board surface can immediately enter the adjacent liquid absorption area after being sprayed, achieving spray-and-absorption, minimizing the residence time of the liquid on the board surface, and preventing the developer droplets from absorbing the developer spray. This would prevent the developer spray near the droplets from being absorbed and unable to dissolve the photoresist-formed photocurable layer in time, resulting in uneven dissolution of the photoresist and affecting the dissolution quality.

[0040] Furthermore, each of the spray pipes 42 is equipped with several nozzles 44, and the direction of the developer sprayed by all the nozzles 44 is perpendicular to the surface of the PCB board. Vertical spraying helps to form a uniform liquid film coverage, and the impact force also helps to dissolve uncured photoresist. The nozzles 44 can be fan-shaped or conical nozzles, arranged according to the board width to ensure coverage of the entire board surface.

[0041] The working principle of this utility model is as follows: The PCB board is driven by the transmission roller 21 of the conveying mechanism 20 and passes through the developing zone at a uniform speed. First, the nozzles 44 on the upper and lower spray pipes 42 spray developing solution evenly onto the upper and lower surfaces of the PCB board to carry out the developing reaction. Subsequently, the PCB board surface carrying the residual solution continues to move forward and enters the liquid suction zone composed of the upper and lower suction boxes 51. The PCB board surface pushes open the two elastic sheets 53 at the opening of the suction box 51, causing them to bend and deform and adhere tightly to the PCB board surface. The elastic sheets 53 can scrape and spread the accumulated developing solution droplets, so that large volume developing solution droplets can be quickly spread evenly along the length direction of the elastic sheets 53. Under the negative pressure generated by the suction pump 56, external air enters the suction tank 52 through the suction gaps 54 between the elastic sheets 53, and at the same time, the residual developing solution film adhering to the board surface is carried into the suction tank 52 by scraping and suction. The aspirated liquid and a small amount of air mixture converge through suction pipe 58 and branch pipe 59, and are then pumped into collection tank 57 by suction pump 56. Inside collection tank 57, after filtration, condensation, and gas-liquid separation, the liquid is collected, while the gas can be discharged through the exhaust port or further processed. The residual solution on the PCB board surface is significantly reduced after the liquid aspiration treatment, and the board is sent out of the developing unit in a relatively dry state for subsequent processes.

[0042] The above embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of this utility model and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. Any non-substantial changes and substitutions made by those skilled in the art based on this utility model shall fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

Claims

1. A PCB developing apparatus comprising a frame, a conveying mechanism provided on the frame and used for conveying a PCB board, and a spraying mechanism provided on the frame, wherein the spraying mechanism is provided with spraying assemblies above and below the conveying mechanism, characterized in that, The frame is equipped with a liquid suction mechanism. Several suction boxes are arranged across the upper and lower sides of the conveying mechanism. Each suction box has a suction groove along its length on the side facing the conveying mechanism. Elastic sheets are arranged outward on both sides of the suction groove opening. The two elastic sheets are in contact with each other and there is a suction gap between some areas. The outward side of the two elastic sheets can abut against the surface of the corresponding side of the PCB board conveyed by the conveying mechanism.

2. The PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The width of the elastic sheet near the discharge side of the conveying mechanism is greater than the width of the other elastic sheet. The outward sides of both elastic sheets bend and deform after contacting the surface of the PCB board being conveyed by the conveying mechanism. The bending and deformation direction of the two elastic sheets is towards the output direction of the conveying mechanism.

3. The PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that: On the side where the two elastic sheets are in contact with each other, there are several grooves or protrusions, and the length direction of the grooves or protrusions is perpendicular to the opening direction of the suction groove.

4. The PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The two ends of the two elastic sheets are glued and fixed together.

5. A PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid suction mechanism includes a suction pump, a collection box, and a suction tube. The suction pump is mounted on the frame. One end of the suction tube is connected to the suction end of the suction pump, and the other end of the suction tube is connected to the suction box via a branch pipe. The discharge end of the suction pump is connected to the collection box.

6. A PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that: Each of the aforementioned branch pipes is equipped with a regulating valve.

7. A PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that: The collection box is equipped with a filter grid. The suction pump is inserted into the collection box through a discharge pipe. The filter grid is placed in front of the discharge pipe. The collection box is equipped with several layers of condensation mesh above the grid. A confluence baffle is also provided above the condensation mesh.

8. A PCB board developing apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that: Each of the spraying components includes a supply pipe and a plurality of spray pipes connected to the supply pipe. The supply pipe is mounted on the frame. The other end of the supply pipe in each spraying component is connected to the developer supply component. All the spray pipes are arranged in parallel and are respectively mounted above and below the conveying mechanism. Each spray pipe has a suction box on both sides.

9. A PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that: Each of the spray pipes is equipped with several nozzles, and the direction of the developing solution sprayed by all the nozzles is perpendicular to the surface of the PCB board.

10. A PCB board developing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The conveying mechanism includes a plurality of drive rollers rotatably mounted on a frame and a drive chain that drives all of the drive rollers to rotate. A conveying motor for driving the drive chain to rotate is provided on the frame.

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