Product category:
PCB Assembly Equipment and Tools
News Release from: Universal Instruments | Subject: NPI utility
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 05 November 2004
Software for fast, efficient NPI
A new NPI utility enables easier and faster error correction ahead of first article build, with post-placement inspection assistance to facilitate fine-tuning and troubleshooting.
Universal Instruments has introduced new software to enhance new product introduction for its customers The new NPI utility enables easier and faster error correction ahead of first article build, with post-placement inspection assistance to facilitate fine-tuning and troubleshooting
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 17 Jul 2002 at 8.00am (UK)
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Features for faster verification of feeder and fiducial settings, as well as pre-placement inspection allow prototyping and high-mix specialists to drive up productivity and utilization, and reduce operator training.
NPI's feeder inspection mode uses the Universal placement machine's downward looking cameras to inspect each feeder prior to commencing first article build.
It provides a graphic overlay and orientation marks, allowing the operator to adjust rotation and pick point independently for each feeder.
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The operator can also cycle the feeder from the monitor to ensure that there are components available for pick and to ensure correct pitch setting.
After the board enters the machine the NPI fiducial find feature allow the operator to resize or reshape fiducials, modify lighting values and change the CAD position as required.
After quickly establishing feeder and fiducial settings, NPI's pre-placement inspection mode helps establish the reference frame on the board.
The downward looking cameras allow pad sites to be compared directly with an overlay of the board to verify part identification and orientation, highlighting any further adjustments necessary.
Features such as a "hot" button allowing the operator to select a single reference I from each component ID, and an "auto" option that cycles through each location automatically unlock further power in this mode.
Updating the file is also easy, by pausing the pre-placement mode to correct errors as they are detected.
With placements, feeders, and fiducials dialed-in, and the board ready for production, NPI's edit on the fly capability takes the operator directly into the definition for any component that causes vision failure.
The operator can then quickly correct parameters, re-inspect, and place the component when corrected.
This allows the first article to be built without removing the board from the machine.
It also minimizes scrap by keeping the part on the nozzle until it is ready to be placed.
After the board has been built, NPI also supports manual optical inspection of component placements as they sit in the paste.
This allows the operator to verify that all parts are placed, in the correct location and orientation, delivering a comprehensive solution for rapid new product introductions.
The NPI software complements the features native to Universal's UPS+ machine operating software, and is automatically activated as a free 60 days trial version on all Universal 4- and 7-spindle AdVantis and GSM Genesis platform-based machines.
Upon expiration of the trial, users can permanently reactivate the NPI software by purchasing a license from Universal.
UPS+ features support the functions of the NPI software by providing over 1200 industry standard shape codes and JEDEC tray definitions, flexible component definition capabilities, intuitive CAD import, image capture tools for real-time debug analysis, and powerful querying capabilities allowing multiple parameter changes against multiple component definitions.
Tightly integrated hardware enhancements further extend the advantages of the NPI and UPS+ software capabilities.
Extra cost options include adjustable feeders, self-ID feeders, bank change feeders, the Universal Magellan camera with increased field-of-view and higher magnification, adjustable grippers for 7-spindle heads, and Dimensions Line Control software for auto-programming.
By adding the NPI tools and selected hardware options to the machine's base configuration and UPS+ capabilities, users can perform prototyping, first article build, NPI and high-mix manufacturing more quickly and with significantly lower effort than competitive offerings.
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