Understanding the Future Demand for Pick-and-Place Machine Nozzle Shaft Vision Systems

Automatic Programming Capability

For highly specialized components, the new generation of nozzle shaft vision software tools should feature automatic "learning" capabilities. Users do not need to manually input parameters into the system or create component descriptions from scratch. They only need to place the component in front of the vision camera for imaging, and the system will automatically generate a comprehensive CAD-like description. This technology improves the accuracy of component descriptions, reduces operator errors, accelerates component library creation—especially in scenarios involving frequent introduction of new components or use of uniquely shaped components—and thereby enhances production efficiency.

Reliable Nozzle Avoidance Capability

SMD component placement by pick-and-place machines typically uses front lighting, backlighting, or a combination of both. Backlighting creates a background for the component, producing an image similar to a binary image that allows the vision system to identify the component more easily. It is commonly used for recognizing simple components such as chip resistors and capacitors. However, backlighting also poses challenges for the vision system: the background of the nozzle picking up the component often protrudes behind the component or partially shields the chip. Although front lighting technology can prevent this phenomenon, the pixel grayscale value of the nozzle itself may prevent the vision system from reliably distinguishing between the nozzle and the component. Selecting a vision system that can identify the shape difference between the component and the picking nozzle enables the system to tolerate partial nozzle shielding, thereby improving component alignment accuracy and preventing misplacement due to vision errors.

Capability to Recognize Fine-Pitch Components and Components with White Ceramic Surfaces

To accurately identify various components such as BGAs, flip chips, or CSPs, and inspect pin deviations, the vision system must be able to precisely locate each component. The vision system should also reliably recognize components with white ceramic surfaces, whose low-contrast reflective properties can render traditional vision technologies ineffective. These functions should be verified, and the testing software should be able to distinguish between different objects.

Capability to Recognize Non-Standard Components

The nozzle shaft machine vision system should reliably identify the outlines of various non-standard components, regardless of how unusual their shapes are. Existing placement alignment software is equipped with built-in geometric pattern search tools that can "learn" the geometric attributes of components. Even for irregularly shaped components, the system can achieve accurate recognition.