Mechanical PCB Solder Printing Fixture for Precise Template-Free Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solder printing apparatuses for PCBs require large workspaces and extensive template inventories to accommodate various PCB sizes, and are prone to power-dependent suction mechanism failures.
Innovation Solution
A non-powered mechanical system with a clamping mechanism featuring adjustable height stoppers, micrometer-scale turn knobs, and a rack and pinion mechanism for precise positioning and clamping of substrates, eliminating the need for multiple templates and power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a suction mechanism is used to hold the PCB in position, then positioning precision is improved, but the system becomes dependent on power supply and susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the suction mechanism (pneumatic system) with a purely mechanical clamping system consisting of clamps, clamp arms, and positioning members. This mechanical system does not require power supply and is not susceptible to leaks or power failures, thereby improving reliability while maintaining positioning capability through precise mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical clamping system is designed to be self-contained and self-regulating, using spring-loaded clamps and adjustable positioning members that automatically maintain contact and pressure on the PCB without requiring external power or control systems, making the system self-sufficient and more reliable.
2Device complexity
If simple clamping mechanisms are used to hold PCBs, then device complexity is reduced, but workspace requirements increase due to large clamp displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through adjustable positioning members and micrometer-scale turn knobs that allow the clamp arms to adapt to different PCB sizes. This dynamic adjustment enables the clamps to maintain effective positioning with minimal displacement, reducing the workspace area required while preserving the simplicity of the mechanical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows change in geometric parameters of the clamping configuration through adjustable positioning members that can be repositioned along the clamp arms. This enables the same simple clamping mechanism to accommodate various PCB dimensions without requiring large workspace or complex reconfiguration, maintaining both simplicity and compactness.
3Measurement precision
If templates are used to position PCBs, then positioning precision is improved, but storage space requirements increase due to template inventory
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical clamping system with adjustable positioning members serves multiple functions: it provides precise positioning for different PCB sizes, acts as a clamping mechanism, and eliminates the need for multiple specialized templates. This universal system replaces the entire template inventory with a single multi-functional apparatus, significantly reducing storage space requirements while maintaining positioning precision through adjustable mechanical components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable positioning mechanisms are added to accommodate various PCB sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism is segmented into independent adjustable components: separate positioning members for X and Y directions, micrometer-scale turn knobs for precise adjustment, and independently adjustable clamps. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in itself while the combination provides comprehensive adaptability for various PCB sizes, managing overall system complexity through modular design.
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 quick and precise adjustments for clamping and positioning of PCBs of varying sizes without requiring extensive workspace or power, reducing storage needs and minimizing the risk of mechanical failures.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping mechanism comprises a mounting base, a lead screw, one or more clamp base
Implementation Method 2
each having a turn knob with a micrometer scale, as well as, a position indicator
Implementation Method 3
A non-powered mechanical system with a clamping mechanism featuring adjustable height stoppers, micrometer-scale turn knobs, and a rack and pinion mechanism for precise positioning
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention presents a solder printing apparatus comprising a clamping mechanism (100), and a position adjusting mechanism. The clamping mechanism (100) comprises a mounting base (130), a lead screw (142), one or more clamp base (110), and one or more adjustable height stopper (120) for locating and clamping. The position adjusting mechanism comprises an adjustment for X direction positioning (150), an adjustment for Y direction positioning (160), an adjustment for Z direction positioning (170), and an adjustment for rotation position about the Z axis (180), each having a turn knob with a micrometer scale, as well as, a position indicator (152, 162, 172).