Removable Inspection Unit for Modular Component Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing module-type component mounting systems require a dedicated inspection machine module, increasing costs and operational complexity due to the need for size and structure adjustments, and struggle with high-resolution image processing, which affects inspection accuracy and system efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The system allows for a removable inspection camera unit and image processing unit to be mounted on existing mounting machines, eliminating the need for a dedicated inspection module and distributing the image processing load, enabling high-resolution inspections and simplifying operational changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated inspection machine module is manufactured with customized size and installation structure to match the mounting machine module, then the inspection machine can be mounted on the base of the module-type component mounting system, but the cost increases due to custom manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the inspection machine module with standardized dimensions and installation structures that match the mounting machine modules. This allows the inspection machine to be mounted on the base of the module-type component mounting system without custom manufacturing, reducing costs while maintaining compatibility. The standardized interface enables the inspection module to function as a universal component within the modular system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the positions of the mounting machine module and inspection machine module are exchanged to change the inspection position according to production job requirements, then the inspection timing can be adjusted, but the operation rate decreases due to the trouble of handling position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the inspection machine module position adjustable along the conveyor direction. The inspection machine module can be moved to different positions (first, second, or third positions) depending on the production job requirements. This dynamic positioning capability allows flexible inspection timing without requiring complete module exchange, maintaining high operation rates while adapting to different inspection needs.
3Measurement precision
If the control computer of the mounting machine performs both mounting operation control and high-resolution image processing concurrently, then inspection accuracy can be maintained, but the arithmetic operation load becomes too high for the control computer to handle at high speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the image processing function from the mounting machine's control computer. A dedicated image processing device is introduced to handle high-resolution image processing tasks, while the control computer focuses on mounting operation control. This segmentation reduces the arithmetic operation load on the control computer, enabling high-speed operation while maintaining high inspection accuracy through specialized image processing hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A component mounting system including mounting machines along a direction of conveying a circuit board; a feeder mount base in each of the mounting machines; a feeder removably mounted on the feeder mount base of each of the mounting machines; a mounting head in each of the mounting machines, the mounting head sucking a component supplied from the feeder for mounting on the circuit board; a moving mechanism in each of the mounting machines, the moving mechanism configured to removably mount and move the mounting head; an inspection camera unit configured to image an inspection target part of the circuit board; and an inspection image processing unit mounted, replaceably with the feeder, on the feeder mount base where the inspection camera unit is mounted, the inspection image processing unit processing an image signal output from the inspection camera unit to inspect the inspection target part.