The wider adoption of high-performance
absolute encoder systems will allow SMT placement equipment manufacturers to
keep up with the increasing technological demands of the electronics industry.
Encoder technology employed within SMT placement equipment is directly
responsible for improving placement accuracy and repeatability as well as
increasing the speed of each axis, thereby boosting machine throughput to
higher levels.
Get top quality Pick and place machines are also
increasingly using linear motors on the X and Y axes, to enhance accuracy,
speed, and servo-loop stiffness. Absolute optical encoders output reliable
signals of high fidelity that permit higher servo-loop gain levels. High
servo-loop gain allows increased axis acceleration and deceleration, faster
settling times and reduced induction motor heating - enabling the machine to
run harder and for longer while reducing the number of scheduled stoppages
required for cooling. Absolute encoders further allow correct commutation to be
found immediately without reference returns; enabling simpler servo-design and
a reduction of assembly complexity when compared with incremental encoder-based
systems, which require additional sensors, e.g. Hall Effect sensors, to
commutate the linear motor.
Fast-moving commercial markets, which
demand a succession of sophisticated high-technology products, are dominating
the electronics manufacturing scene. This trend is compelling manufacturers to
keep pace with the continuous miniaturization and convergence of different
technologies by developing increasingly flexible, modular SMT placement
equipment. In addition, the use of wireless technology in medical devices is
growing rapidly – requiring high-mix production, with smaller batch sizes, and
resulting in heightened demand for flexible SMT placement equipment.
Technology will be a crucial driver for
SMT equipment demand with manufacturers likely to emphasize the need for low
cost-of-ownership and high return on investment. Product innovations and
differentiators will be the ultimate decision factor in addition to price
considerations for customers.
Customers will increasingly demand SMT
placement equipment that can maximize throughput, communicate with other SMT
equipment on the factory-line, and drive efficiencies so that their production
processes continue to remain competitive and viable.
Comments
Post a Comment