Rapid product change-overs and various component manufacturers in the electronics production demand a flexible automatic optical inspection in double respects: Simple switch between existing inspection programs and easy development of new inspection programs. With the software, these tasks are much easier and significantly faster. This is why a new inspection pattern tool for NPI (New Product Introduction) was developed to handle new component types. This tool effectively uses existing libraries as well as the 3D technology of AOI systems to automatically assign components in the new layout to existing inspection patterns. With this approach, time for inspection program creation is reduced to a minimum.
According to Dipl.-Ing. Robert Döhring-Köhler, Manager of software development, „This advanced development also contains the automatic adaptation of the geometry parameters. The geometry settings of the currently used components are transferred during the automatic inspection pattern assignment from the library. Another innovation is the Quick Select function, with which the user can smoothly switch back and forth between the inspection programs.”
„Solutions that arose from the requirement for a more efficient and flexible personnel deployment were integrated into our new vVision update,“ adds Döhring-Köhler. On the verification station (vVerify), the visual inspectors are supported by the software so that the inspection results can be correctly confirmed without extensive previous knowledge or longer orientation periods.
In addition to an evaluated defect image in the center, optional good and bad examples are presented for comparison to aid decision. Further, the defect site and additional information can be displayed on a second monitor or with the shift key. Based on the images from the cameras (up to nine) and the 3D height measurement, with the 360-degree viewing function (360View), the components can be examined from all perspectives. This avoids inaccuracy on the sides or shadowing; the texture from all viewing directions – including the side views – ensures that the inspected component is represented as fully modeled and true to life. Inspection results from special components can be visually checked for detected defects and faulty solder joints, without errors.
To support traceability, now screenshots and 3D images can be directly saved at any time with the integrated Live Snapper so that they can be logged and used in a quality report. Clearly identifiable character recognition of component designations is indispensable for unambiguous identification of correct components. The software solves this task through the integration of new, ultra-modern OCR recognition, which uses intelligent algorithms to ensure automatic reading and a reliable evaluation.
