Rotatable Solder Nozzle With Multi-Width Overflow Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Point-to-point soldering processes require multiple nozzles of different sizes, leading to inefficiencies and production delays due to the need to stop and switch between them during the soldering of components with varying pitch sizes.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle design featuring multiple over-flow sections of varying widths, integrated into the outlet portion, allows for the production of streams of solder with different widths, enabling the same nozzle to be used for components of different pitches by adjusting the relative orientation between the nozzle and the component, reducing the need for multiple nozzles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple nozzles of different sizes are used for components with varying pitch sizes, then the soldering precision for different pitch components is improved, but the production efficiency deteriorates due to the need to stop and switch between nozzles
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is designed with multiple overflow sections of different widths (first overflow section with first width, second overflow section with second width) that can be selectively used by rotating the nozzle to different orientations. This allows a single nozzle to perform multiple functions - soldering both fine pitch and larger pitch components - thereby eliminating the need to switch between multiple specialized nozzles and maintaining continuous production flow
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nozzles are used for different pitch components, then the adaptability to different component types is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple nozzles and switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple overflow sections (first overflow section and second overflow section) with different widths, where each section can be independently positioned at the outlet by rotating the nozzle to different orientations. This segmentation allows the single nozzle to adapt to different pitch requirements without requiring multiple complete nozzle assemblies or complex switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle incorporates rotational capability that allows dynamic repositioning between different overflow sections during operation. By rotating the nozzle to different orientations, the system can dynamically adapt to different pitch requirements without requiring physical replacement of nozzles or complex mechanical switching devices
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 design enhances the efficiency of the soldering process by minimizing the need for nozzle switching, thereby reducing production delays and allowing for quicker, more efficient soldering of components with varying pitch sizes.
Implementation Method 1
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
Implementation Method 2
solder is dispensed from an outlet of the one or more outlets and flows over the first and/or second over-flow section, wherein 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
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
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.