The state-of-the-art solutions from VJ Electronix, a VJ Technologies company, include proven X-ray inspection technology to identify defects and errors plus high-speed automated rework systems for fast and precise repair. The result is more accurate inspection, higher throughput and quality and better feedback to control the process. Don Naugler talks to EPP Europe over the news and systems of the company.
VJ Electronix has a New Business Development group to supply non-standard X-ray products and tools. What exactly does this entail?
We would like to think we have a turnkey solution for any application that our customers can dream up. There always will be cases where a standard product cannot meet desired throughput requirements or perform a desired function. In such cases, we look to leverage our technology in new, innovative ways. We are not looking to invent something totally new. Rather, we implement standard technology in new ways. For instance, we may modify an X-ray system with custom material handling or combine existing heating components with new methods of control. We have recently developed processes and equipment to inspect odd-form assemblies delivered in trays. Another application involved a special manipulator for cylindrical samples that were presented in a random orientation but required X-ray to align the component prior to the start of the inspection process. We also have built low-volume pick-and-place systems and custom hot air selective soldering systems.
The Summit Rework system has long been regarded as the ‘workhorse’ for surface mount rework. The Versa has captured the long-proven Summit rework capability in a new, flexible and versatile platform. How was this accomplished?
The Summit 1100 platform, as with most rework systems, is based on a fixed rework head and a moveable board support table. This approach simplifies the structure needed to ensure mechanical stability, which is challenging when combining precision motions with a thermal process tool. The downside of this approach is a system with a relatively large footprint since the board must be moved to the rework head. The Versa uses the gantry approach where the board is fixed and the head moves. We have been careful not to lose the integrity of the mechanics. This change simplifies the addition of extra features such as dual heads and component feeders while maximizing the ratio of work envelope (maximum board size) to floor space. While the platform of the Versa is much different than the rest of the Summit line, the features that make the Summit a true workhorse are incorporated in the Versa and have not changed. The reliable pick-and-place mechanism remains the same. The heating remains the same. The software and tooling also remain the same. Someone that has a new, unique application now has a new approach with added flexibility. Someone looking to add automation or move to high-volume in-line rework for an existing Summit application can readily transfer their process to a new set of equipment. Training, profiles, and tooling investments are directly compatible.
The Summit 2200 is also a fully automated and programmable rework system. What features are available on this system and what competitive advantage does it provide for customers?
The Summit 2200 has two independent rework heads and programmable board positioning. One of the rework heads has standard rework capability – the ability to provide localized heating combined with pick-and-place to remove and replace components. The second head is a specialized mechanism for removal of residual solder. Having two heads allows the discrete steps of faulty component removal, scavenging, and component replacement to be performed in one continuous operation. Having a continuous operation has two benefits. First, and most obvious, is throughput. Pre-heating of the board can be the most time consuming part of the rework process. Typically, this is performed before each of the steps. In a continuous process, the pre-heat only needs to be done once. The second benefit has to do with reliability. Each rework step puts the board through a thermal cycle. The continuous process reduces both the thermal excursion and the total time the board is exposed to elevated temperatures.
The Vertex Series-A is a versatile, all purpose X-ray system with a new modular design based on solid SRT engineering. What is the benefit of modularity and the technology borrowed from SRT?
The legacy of SRT includes modularity, flexibility, and upgradeability. We know that our customers’ needs are changing. Our goal is to make systems capable of evolving to meet these changing needs. System modularity allows us to configure systems to match a variety of applications. The Vertex is designed to accept X-ray sources ranging from 75 to 150 kV (or higher with some additional shielding). We also incorporate various detectors including multiple Image Intensifiers and digital panels. This flexibility allows us to build a system for moderate resolution to high resolution, low to high mass samples, and low to high magnification. And if the customer’s needs change again, we can easily retrofit these options in the field. Software and controls also add to the flexibility. The control architecture lends itself to hardware modularity by allowing us to easily add or subtract axes of sample manipulation and features such as marking systems. The software is designed for ease of use for operators but allows process engineers incredible flexibility. System operation and inspection sequences can be edited by the user, allowing high levels of customization without having to recompile code or to request factory support. When asked if we can build a system, the answer is almost always yes.
EPP Europe 407
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