The application of machine vision in SMT automatic feeding process

SMT (Surface Mount Technology) automatic feeding is a core process in electronic manufacturing, and its accuracy and efficiency directly affect product performance. The traditional feeding methods are mainly manual or semi-mechanical, which are difficult to meet the requirements of high-density and miniaturized component mounting. The automatic feeding technology based on machine vision, with visual alignment and visual guidance as the core, combined with a convenient operation interface, is becoming the key technology for the upgrade of SMT.

SMT Loading Method: 
Manual component placement: The operator manually places the components onto the tape or tray. This method is inefficient and prone to positional errors due to fatigue. For components with a spacing of less than 0.3mm, the misalignment rate can reach as high as 5%. 
2. Belt conveyor line: Continuous supply of components is achieved through belt transmission, but the positioning accuracy is low (with an error of more than ±1mm), and additional correction stations need to be added, occupying production line space. 
3. Tape feeding: High-precision electric structure, capable of handling tapes ranging from 8mm to 52mm. Achieves millimeter-level feeding accuracy through visual recognition of positioning holes. 
4. Tray feeding: For IC components (such as BGA and QFP), the vision system locates the positions of the components within the tray, guiding the robotic arm to accurately pick them up, with the error controlled within ±0.05mm. 
5. Flexible feeding: The flexible vibrating disc works in conjunction with vision, capable of accommodating irregular and tiny components (such as medical rubber bands), with a compatibility rate of 99%, and supporting rapid model changes.

The core challenge in SMT component loading lies in the high-precision alignment of components and pads. Traditional mechanical positioning relies on fixed fixtures, and when dealing with irregular-shaped components or those with small pitch, the error rate significantly increases. The machine vision-driven SMT automatic feeding technology breaks through the limitations of traditional manual and mechanical methods, achieving ±0.03mm ultra-high precision alignment, and is compatible with irregular components and rapid model changes. It has become the core engine for the intelligent upgrade of electronic manufacturing.