Measurement Sensors for the Electronics Systems Industry

The electronics industry’s massive development since the invention of the transistor shrunk many components in size while increasing their effectiveness. This gave birth to several new branches with the word “micro” in their name, including micro components in various electronic systems.

These components are incredibly small (some smaller than a poppy seed), and in the electronics industry, they’re mostly handled and inspected by robots. These robots rely on numerous sensors to ensure every component is in the right spot. Such components are usually placed onto boards by pick-and-place robots that arrange and align them onto pads at fantastic speeds, often multiple at a time.

After placing components, machines use precision measurement sensors to check for possible misalignments. This takes place before the components go to soldering and ensures that everything is positioned correctly.

Correct position and orientation of components and defective component detection are crucial, as they ensure the quality of the electronic system and increase the effectiveness of the entire process by eliminating human operators, who are more prone to error.

Bigger components, such as ICs and various chips with SON and TSOP footprints, might get misaligned during pickup and placement. In order to avoid product failure due to misalignment, the electronics industry frequently relies on 2D laser profilers such as the LJ-X8000 Series to detect misalignment and trigger a warning or other appropriate automated action.

Once the components are positioned and checked for alignment, they are transferred to the reflow oven, where the solder is melted. This crucial step requires that all components on the electronic system board are precisely aligned.

After the solder finishes melting, component alignment and the quality of the solder joints are checked using 2D laser profilers once again. Their single-digit µm accuracy allows them to detect misaligned components or cracks in solder joints, which are most likely to expand and lose connection once the electronic system heats up during operation.

This type of inspection typically relies on sensors like the aforementioned LJ-X8000 Series laser profiler paired with a data logger. This allows for accurate measurement and data storage, resulting in more effective quality control.

As previously explained, the electronics industry relies on several different measurement sensors. Measurement sensors are used to inspect component placement and solder quality, with defect detection at an enviable µm scale. Laser displacement sensors are particularly useful in automated assemblies as they also ensure precise component placement.

If you want to learn more about precision measurement in electronics or how to increase the effectiveness of your manufacturing process while simultaneously cutting down on various costs associated with revisions and downtime, ask KEYENCE. Our trained and professional staff will respond to any inquiries you might have.