PCB Testing with Tailored Robotics and Software
In electronics manufacturing, every minute counts. PT-Elektrik understands this very well. That’s why they have decided to optimize their quality assurance processes with advanced robotics and innovative software solutions to meet increasing demands. The safety system sBot Speed URCap is making their processes not only more efficient, but also safer.
Operators in the danger zone
PT-Elektrik, a leader in automation and quality assurance, utilizes a universal robot e-series (also known as a URe robot) to set new standards in its quality assurance process for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Because the robot’s working area is near to other test stations used by people, the area around the robot needed to be safeguarded. The solution had to be simple, and quick to implement.
sBot Speed in action
The quality assurance process begins with the robot picking up the electronic boards and loading them into the test station, where they undergo comprehensive quality checks. The URe robots at the test stations run a software tool provided with the SICK sBot Speed – URCap system. The graphical user interface (GUI) of URCap makes it possible to quickly and easily configure the protective fields of the laser scanner. The sBot Speed – URCap uses a nanoScan3 safety laser scanner with a range of up to three meters and a resolution of 0.1 degrees. This scanner is mounted directly connected to the robot controller, enabling precise object detection.
“The implementation of the sBot Speed – URCap technology has significantly improved our production processes”
Pavel Troják, CEO at PT-Elektrik
When the PCBs are in place, several systems from SICK get to work inspecting them. An Inspector P61x 2D vision sensor checks the position and orientation of the chips in a blister. These cameras run 40 tests in one picture. Meanwhile, the GTB2F photoelectric sensor detects the presence of loaded parts in the carousel rotation. Once the electronic boards have been successfully tested, the robot carefully places them onto a paint palette, ready for the next production step.
Protecting the risk area with sBot Speed – URCap technology
The safety system is connected and configured directly via the robot hardware, without the need for a computer. This significantly simplifies and speeds up the setup process, specifically through the “nanoScan3 Tool” configuration software. Thanks to the use of sBot Speed – URCap technology, the risk area close to the robot is properly protected.
“Since introducing the new technology, we have reduced downtime and increased production rates.”
Pavel Troják, CEO at PT-Elektrik
The robot movements automatically slow down when a person is detected by the nanoScan3 laser scanner, rather than coming to an immediate stop. Slowing down in this way increases the safety of employees and reduces the risk of accidents. The machine restarts its operation automatically if the risk area is clear.
Dual benefits: safety and efficiency
This advanced solution enables PT-elektrik to optimize their production processes while ensuring the safety of their employees. Users require no knowledge of scanners to operate the URCap system. This is because the safety systems have pre-defined functions that depend on pre-selected devices and a single GUI, which is used to configure an application. As a result, the system can be set up quickly and is easy to use.
Strong Partnership and Deep Process Understanding
When PT-Elektrik mentioned their upcoming UR robot project during a meeting, the SICK sales team knew the URCap sBot Speed system would be perfect for the job. Their customer was impressed with how intuitive and pleasant the software environment is. Thanks to this project, the close cooperation between PT-Elektrik and SICK has grown stronger.
More increases in safety to come
Having ordered four such solutions from SICK, PT-Elektrik is already planning to order more. The sBot Speed – URCap technology will be implemented in additional production lines, and additional safety features will be integrated. And beyond this application, SICK will continue to serve as a reliable partner and single source of advice and technology.
