Gimbal Camera Inspection for PCB Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical inspection systems for printed circuit boards (PCBs) and printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) lack the necessary adjustability for the camera view, limiting the ability to inspect components accurately, especially when components are obstructed or require unusual angles of incidence and approach, and often require manual handling that can damage the boards.
Innovation Solution
A system with a two-axis gimbal and motor-controlled positioning system allows for precise adjustment of the camera's line of sight in terms of angle of incidence, angle of approach, and Z-height, enabling automated or manual inspection of PCBs by positioning the camera to view any point of interest on the board with selected angles and coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual inspection with physical handling is used, then inspection flexibility is improved, but board damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to create a visual copy (image) of the PCB board for inspection purposes, replacing the need for physical handling. The imaging device captures optical information about the board's components and surface, allowing inspectors to examine the board remotely without touching it, thus eliminating static shock and displacement risks while maintaining inspection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary tool between the inspector and the PCB board. This intermediary device transmits visual information about the board's components and surface features, enabling inspection without direct physical contact. The camera acts as a mediator that conveys board information to the inspector through an image display system
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed camera position is used, then device complexity is reduced, but inspection coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a motor-controlled positioning system that enables the camera to dynamically adjust its position and orientation. The system includes motors that can rotate and translate the camera to various angles and locations, allowing inspection of different board areas and perspectives. This dynamic positioning capability provides versatile inspection coverage while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated control
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed cameras are used, then inspection coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single camera that is motor-controlled to perform multiple functions by adjusting its position and orientation. Instead of using multiple fixed cameras for different viewing angles, one camera is positioned and oriented through motor control to capture images from various perspectives. This universal approach reduces system complexity while maintaining comprehensive inspection coverage
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection system inspects points of interest on an item. A two-axis gimbal holds the item and is controlled to adjust an angle of incidence and angle of approach of a line of sight of an imaging device with respect to the point of interest. A Y-axis actuator adjusts a position of the imaging device along a Y-axis of the item, and an X-axis actuator adjusts a position of the imaging device along an X-axis of the item. A controller controls the gimbal, the Y-axis actuator and the X-axis actuator. Upon selecting a point of interest, angle of incidence, and angle of approach, the imaging device displays and/or captures an image, and the image can be inspected by a human inspector or automated inspection system.