Vision measuring machines are extensively used in the electronics industry. These machines, also known as vision inspection systems or optical measuring machines, play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and precision of electronic components and assemblies. There are several critical tasks that can be performed using vision-based systems.
In its simplest forms Vision/inspection systems are used for solder joint inspection to detect defects such as insufficient solder, bridging and voids to ensure mechanical strength and electrical conductivity Also they are used to inspect printed circuit boards (PCBs) for defects such as misaligned components, solder joint issues, and missing components.
These checks are typically carried out using manual vision systems or zoom microscopes.
Another check on PCB’s, is to check for correct orientation, positioning, and alignment. It is in this area the latest automated optical Inspection (AOI) solutions are used for real time inspection during the production process, they provide immediate feedback allowing for quick identification and correction of defects. These checks require more advanced vision systems that combine vision with measurement or comparative solutions where a good part is stored and compared against the manufactured product for comparison.
When we move into microelectronics and Semiconductors the requirement becomes more critical as we need to look at wafer surfaces, find and size defects and measure critical dimensions at the microscopic level and this requires
The AVR300 system Starrett UK Metrology is an example of the type of measurement system used for these tasks.
The AVR300 CNC Automatic Vision Metrology System is ideal for repetitive measurements and automatic comparison to CAD files. Systems are available with interchangeable telecentric or dedicated zoom lenses for micron-level resolution and accurate field-of-view (FOV) measurements. With a maximum FOV of 0.93″ (24mm), the AVR300 is capable of measuring parts with a length up to 300mm. A large 2.36″ (60mm) FOV-dedicated 0.14X lens is now available.
The operator interface is the MetLogix™ M3 software that displays a live video image of the part plus geometry tools and digital readings. The image of the part can be resized using zoom and measurements can be taken by simply touching a feature on the touch-screen monitor. M3 software capabilities also include 3-axis measurements and 2D geometric constructs (points, lines, angles, rectangles, slots, blobs). Systems are also touch probe compatible.
Starrett Vision Systems are available in the UK from Optimax Imaging and Inspection www.optimaxonline.com
