Multi-Width Solder Nozzle for Switching-Free Point Soldering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current soldering technologies require multiple nozzles for different soldering operations, leading to production delays due to the need to switch between them, especially in point-to-point soldering processes.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle design with multiple over-flow sections of varying widths, allowing a single nozzle to produce streams of solder with different widths by adjusting the relative orientation between the nozzle and the component, eliminating the need for nozzle switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nozzles are used for different soldering operations, then different solder stream widths can be achieved, but production delays occur due to the need to switch between nozzles
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle outlet is divided into multiple overflow sections (first overflow section and second overflow section) with different widths. Each overflow section can independently produce solder streams of different widths, allowing the single nozzle to serve multiple soldering requirements without physical switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle design allows dynamic selection of different overflow sections by changing the relative orientation between the nozzle and the component. This enables the system to adapt between different solder stream widths during operation without replacing the nozzle, thereby eliminating production delays.
2Productivity
If a single nozzle is used for all soldering operations, then nozzle switching is eliminated, but the ability to produce different solder stream widths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single nozzle is designed with multiple overflow sections of varying widths, making it a multi-functional tool. The same nozzle body can produce different solder stream widths by utilizing different overflow sections, thereby achieving both productivity improvement and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of varying nozzle width in one dimension, the invention adds another dimension by creating multiple overflow sections at different orientations. This allows the nozzle to produce different solder stream widths by changing the relative orientation angle between the nozzle and component, rather than requiring physical nozzle replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple solder pots with different nozzle sizes are used, then fine pitch and large pitch components can be soldered, but production must be stopped to switch between nozzles
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle outlet is segmented into multiple overflow sections with different effective widths. The first overflow section is suitable for fine pitch components while the second overflow section is suitable for larger pitch components. This segmentation allows a single nozzle to replace multiple specialized nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic adaptation between different soldering applications by changing the relative orientation between the nozzle and component. This allows operators to switch between fine pitch and large pitch soldering modes without stopping production to change nozzles, maintaining continuous workflow.
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
Enables quicker and more efficient soldering processes by reducing delays associated with nozzle changes, enhancing production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a pump apparatus, configured to pump solder from the solder supply to the nozzle
Implementation Method 2
the outlet portion is adapted to be arranged above the inlet, such that, in use, solder flows from the inlet to the outlet portion along the at least one channel in a generally upward direction
Data Source
AI summary
A nozzle for directing a stream of solder during a soldering operation is disclosed. The nozzle comprising a body portion having an inlet for receiving a supply of solder; an outlet portion having one or more outlets for dispensing solder therefrom; and at least one channel fluidly coupling the inlet to the one or more outlets. Therein the outlet portion is adapted to be arranged above the inlet, such that, in use, solder flows from the inlet to the outlet portion along the at least one channel in a generally upward direction. The outlet portion has first and second over-flow sections, each over-flow section being integral with, or connected to, a peripheral edge of an outlet of the one or more outlets, such that in use, the solder is dispensed from an outlet of the one or more outlets and flows over the first and/or second over-flow section. At least a portion of the first over-flow section has a first width, such that in use, solder flowing over the first over-flow section produces a stream of solder with a width substantially corresponding to the first width. At least a portion of the second over-flow section has a second width, different to the first width, such that in use, solder flowing over the second over-flow section produces a stream of solder with a width substantially corresponding to the second width. A method of manufacturing a nozzle of this type and a method of soldering a component with a nozzle of this type are also disclosed.