Quality Control News

Camera Link®, GigE Vision™, IEEE 1394 — that's just a sampling of interfaces for machine vision. Advanced Imaging discusses key factors in selecting the best interface for your application, including image fidelity, bandwidth, compactness and cables, determinism, and responsiveness. Camera sensors play the biggest role in such decisions. Other factors include: application time constraints and the distance between cameras and the PC-based controller.

New sensors offer built-in lighting, variable working distance, and high-speed inspection capability beyond 6000 parts/min., reports Metrology World. These latest photoelectric sensors detect parts by finding an actual feature like a product graphic. They can also check code printed on labels and inspect multiple parts simultaneously, such as candies in a blister pack.

A new universal X-ray and CT system solves inspection headaches for large, complex electronic assemblies in automotive, aerospace, medical, and machine-tool industries. The system generates real-time 3D images of up to 66 lb test objects. Defects recognized include: cracks, fractures, voids, foreign bodies, and incorrect positioning. Hidden solder joints in electronic assemblies can also be examined.

After setting up the system with test/balance coils and sample parts, a new eddy current comparator runs automatically. The device tests metal parts, bar, wire, and tubing for physical characteristics, including alloy, hardness, and heat treatment. Featuring a broader 100 Hz to 2 MHz frequency range, the tester can operate with a gate system, sorting parts at high speeds into "acceptable," "below spec," and "above spec" tracks.

Designed to detect wafer defects 0.5 micron and larger — created during manufacturing, probing, bumping, dicing, or general handling — a new automated macro defect inspection system handles wafers up to 200 mm at throughputs up to 88 wph. When the system detects yield-robbing defects, it transfers the data to a yield-management program.

A more capable electronic nose (e-nose) is now available for quality assurance in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. LabTechnologist reports that the latest version features user-friendly software in a wider language range to help labs conform to government/industry regulations. E-nose features an array of chemical sensors that undergo an electrical resistance or frequency change in the presence of volatile compounds and other undesired chemicals.

You can avoid disappointment in the EMC lab if you first model your circuitry via software for potential EMI/RFI problems, reports Test & Measurement World. A case in point is a program that produces simulated oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer displays of currents in printed circuit boards to provide emission estimates. It also helps to use software that simulates thermal performance in conjunction with software that models EMC and other susceptibility issues.

With most of its customers in demanding auto-related industries, FAS Controls could no longer rely on home-grown software to manage its wide line of actuators, sensors, and switches. The solution was a Manufacturing Performance System (MPS) suite with over 350 functional modules. On a single Web browser, FAS can now manage such key areas as quality assurance, enterprise resource planning, manufacturing execution systems, and customer relationships.

If you're charged with implementing a vision system, you'll probably want to attend the "Machine Vision in European Manufacturing" conference, September 13-14 in Cambridge, England. Blue-chip companies will describe systems they've adopted and subsequent cost savings, efficiency, and product quality. Also addressed: how to prepare a system recommendation report and tips on choosing integrators and monitoring installation.

Undergoing tests at Sandia National Lab, a new separator material could prevent lithium-ion battery failures like those that triggered huge and costly recalls last year. Developed by Tonen Chemical (an affiliate of ExxonMobil), the material slows chemical reactions, allowing the battery to cool rather than bursting into flames. Safer lithium batteries are vital for many future applications, including hybrid cars.