Manufacturer of AOI technologies, Mek Japan (Marantz Electronics Kabushiki Kaisha), has unveiled a new full 3D AOI system with Artificial Intelligence for high-end electronics assembly. The company says the ISO-Spector M2 is a “true, full range, no compromises, fast to program 3D AOI” which features the electronics industry’s most advanced hardware specifications as well as an exceptionally fast automatic programming method while, at the same time, achieving production-ready inspection results with very short cycle times.
According to Mek, the new system builds on its bestselling M1 AOI. “Inspection performance and speed has been greatly improved while advancing previous levels of convenience and functionality,” the company said in a press release. “By adopting a completely redesigned chassis, the M2 can accommodate larger boards, (510mm x 460mm / 20” x 18”) including optional angular camera in a significantly smaller machine footprint. The newly developed conveyor system with pneumatic drives minimizes PCB transport, reducing handling times by 27%.
“Hardware and software optimizations deliver 20% faster inspection times with the optical unit featuring high resolution 25MP camera with advanced lens optics, large FoV 69mm x 69mm (2.72” x 2.72”) and 4x multi frequency Moiré projectors. With the optional 8 micron lens the system is able to reliably inspect 0201mm (008004”) components and solder joints.”
Programming
“Programming takes just half the time of the systems’ predecessor thanks to changes to the way the data is imported and enhanced automatic component package recognition. ODB++ files can now be loaded in a single step.
“The Artificial Intelligence aspect of the system learns the production process values of assembled and reflowed PCBs and then recognizes defects based on hundreds of pre-set parameters. This is particularly significant in the inspection of solder joints, which are typically the most difficult and time consuming to program in AOIs. Offline programming is also possible. A new auto debugging function minimizes programmer intervention during production.”
Connected systems
Smart factories demand that all systems in the production line are connected not only ‘horizontally’ but also ‘vertically’ – through data management centres (servers, cloud and so on), and can communicate with each other via MES or ERP systems, to improve operations. Mek says its new ISO-Spector M2 integrates fully with Industry 4.0 specifications via the FIBER system for classification, repair, traceability and SPC and is compatible with integrated line management systems such as Panasonic iLNB and FUJI Nexim and Next-Gen Standards support like IPC-CFX, allowing users to analyze information from the inspection machine and entire production line to inform when to perform predictive maintenance.
“All ISO-Spector M2 systems are equipped with sophisticated computer backup systems which guarantee that combined with the reliable, 100% Japanese built hardware, high volume production can continue without interruption,” the company added.
