Dual-Camera Laser Processing for Precise PCB Residue Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manual removal of residual photoresist on printed circuit boards is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and often damages other elements, hindering the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

Innovation Solution

A laser processing system equipped with dual image capturing devices and a laser module, where the first device provides a wide field of view for initial scanning and the second device with higher resolution performs precise identification and processing, allowing for automated detection and removal of residues without damaging surrounding components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual inspection and removal of residues is performed, then labor intensity and time consumption increase, but damage to other elements is reduced compared to automated methods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresidue removal efficiencyVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines inspection and removal operations into a single integrated automated system. The laser processing system incorporates both imaging devices for detection and laser modules for removal, allowing simultaneous execution of both functions without manual intervention, thereby resolving the contradiction between productivity improvement and operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical removal operations with an automated laser-based system. The laser module precisely removes residues through non-contact ablation, eliminating the need for manual mechanical tools that could damage surrounding elements while significantly improving productivity and reducing labor intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of time

If manual removal methods are used, then time consumption increases, but precision in avoiding damage to other elements is maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresidue inspection and removal timeVSAvoidprecision of residue removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the imaging device continuously monitors the workpiece surface, identifies residue locations with high precision, and provides real-time feedback to the laser module. This closed-loop control system ensures precise removal of residues while avoiding damage to surrounding elements, simultaneously reducing time loss and maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary inspection and identification of residues before removal begins. The imaging system scans the workpiece surface in advance, creates a digital map of residue locations, and plans the laser processing path beforehand. This preliminary action enables precise and rapid removal without time loss, as the system is already positioned and configured for immediate precise processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If automated laser processing is implemented, then productivity increases, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomated residue removal rateVSAvoidlaser processing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the laser processing system with multi-functionality, where the same platform performs both inspection (through integrated imaging devices) and removal (through laser modules). This universal system handles multiple operations within a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If high-resolution imaging is used for precise residue identification, then measurement precision improves, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresidue detection resolutionVSAvoidimage acquisition and processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the imaging process into multiple stages with different resolution requirements. A lower-resolution wide-field imaging mode is used for initial scanning and coarse residue location identification, followed by high-resolution imaging only for confirmed residue areas. This segmented approach maintains measurement precision for critical measurements while minimizing overall processing time by avoiding unnecessary high-resolution scanning of entire surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This method significantly reduces manpower and time required for residue removal, ensuring the integrity of printed circuit boards and enhancing manufacturing yield by enabling precise and efficient laser processing.

Implementation Method 1

The main control device controls the laser module to perform a laser process on the workpiece based on a result of the feature identification step

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Data Source

PatentUS20230415280A1Laser processing equipment and method
Publication Date: 2023.12.28 NAT CENT UNIV
  • US20230415280A1 patent drawing
  • US20230415280A1 patent drawing
  • US20230415280A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Laser processing equipment includes a base, a platform, a first image capturing device, a main control device, a second image capturing device and a laser module. The platform, the first and second image capturing device and the laser module are arranged on the top surface of the base and are electrically connected with the main control device. The first image capturing device shoots a workpiece and generates a first image. The main control device searches a target area in the workpiece based on the first image, and the target area includes specific features. The second image capturing device shoots the target area and generates a second image. The main control device performs a feature identification step for specific features based on the first or second image and controls the laser module to process the workpiece based on the result of identification. The invention also provides a laser processing method.