Yamaha Robotics Europe SMT Section has introduced instantaneous 3D component update, included with the latest software release for YRi-V automatic optical inspection (AOI) systems, letting users optimise inspection programs without stopping production.
“Many AOI systems need to reload the board data any time the inspection program is modified, for the change to take effect,” commented Kamil Stasiak, Product Marketing Manager, Yamaha Robotics Europe, SMT Section. “With our latest software update, Yamaha YRi-V users are free to adjust and fine-tune their programs at any time and apply updates without stopping the machine. They can thus benefit immediately from improvements such as faster cycle time and greater inspection accuracy, while maintaining full productivity.”
The new 3D component update feature addresses a common challenge when inspecting boards that contain dissimilar components, such as small surface-
mount devices (SMD) and large through-hole connectors. This is a situation often encountered when building automotive control boards, as well as some networking backplanes, telecom linecards, and similar assemblies. Underlying settings, such as the illuminating projection system, are typically optimized by default for inspecting surface-mount components and are sub-optimal for other parts. This may be discovered only after production has begun. Results can include lower than planned inspection yield with an increased rate of false NG results. Faced with the prospect of stopping inspection to reload the board data, the production team may be inclined to continue production and accept the burden of rechecking larger numbers of incorrectly rejected boards.
Yamaha’s new software update now breaks past these widely accepted limitations, making the YRi-V one of the first 3D AOI systems in the market to deliver such flexibility. Users can now prepare and upload new programs to the YRi-V, working offline while inspection continues uninterrupted at the line rate. The new program can be uploaded as soon as it is ready and replaces the old routine as the next board enters, letting production continue without stopping.
The latest software update is available free of charge for all Yamaha YRi-V users. The update is also compatible with older Yamaha YSi-V systems already in service.
About Yamaha Robotics SMT Section
Yamaha Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Section, a subdivision of Yamaha Motor Robotics Business Unit in Yamaha Motor Corporation, produces a complete selection of equipment for high-speed inline electronic assembly. This 1 STOP SMART SOLUTION includes solder paste printers, component mounters, 3D solder paste inspection machines, 3D PCB inspection machines, dispensers, and management software.
Bringing the Yamaha way to electronics manufacturing, these systems prioritize intuitive operator interaction, efficient coordination between all inline processes, and modularity enabling users to meet the latest manufacturing demands. Group competencies in servo-motor control and image recognition for vision (camera) systems ensure extreme accuracy with high speed.
The current product line includes the latest YR equipment generation, with advanced automated features for programming, setup, and changeovers, and new YSUP management software with state-of-the-art graphics and built-in data analytics.
Combining design and engineering, manufacture, sales, and service competencies, Yamaha SMT Section ensures operational efficiency and easy access to support for customers and partners. With regional offices in Japan, China, Southeast Asia, Europe and North America, the company provides truly global presence.
