PCB milling machine for middle-sized to high volume production lots
The FlexRouter II addresses middle-sized to high volume production lots featuring a high variety of different PCB versions, demanding high-mix depaneling tasks based on short machine set-up procedures. Despite the very small footprint (machine width is only 500 mm), boards with sizes of up to 330x500mm can be processed without difficulties. Four of the seven machine axes in total are integrated as extremely precise linear drives of latest technology. In the FlexRouter II the PCB panel will be fed in, securely clamped and its position precisely identified and adjusted by use of a precise measurement system. Since a freely programmable servo-gripper is used for clamping during the cutting operations a panel-specific gripper is usually not needed, and there are no additional gripper-tooling costs.
The gripper mechanism features a Cartesian 3-axes system assembled on a rotating axis. The milling spindle under the panel is also positioned by a Cartesian 3-axes system and can be equipped with different spindle types. Gripper fingers are exchanged automatically for the change-over from one product to another is remarkably fast and easy. After the milling spindle has cut a single PCB from the panel the board is set aside clamped by the gripper. For this step, a wide variety of different PCB stacking options are available, such as dual and single tape conveyor feeder, tray module to a maximum size of 600x400mm, work-piece holder, linear shuttle or rotating table for the subsequent and individual customer procedures. Also available as an option is the accurate measuring of the singulated PCB by AOI (automated optical inspection) technology.
The generation of new routing programs is made faster through the use of a camera-based system or the integrated dxf converting software which supports the fast and uncomplicated CAD data acquisition. The machine user-interface is designed for the intuitive and easy execution of all necessary functions of the FlexRouter II. Other special standard features implemented in the new FlexRouter II include a provision for the usage of various sections of the milling head in order to reduce the costs for this consumable, the automated exchange of milling tools and a detection function for their possible break down.
Visit IPTE Factory Automation NV at www.ipte.com
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