Safely Handling PCB Boards with Robotics

Industrial robots have become indispensable in PCB (printed circuit board) handling, where precision and efficiency are paramount. Leveraging DADISICK's GFL-Z series laser displacement sensors, this solution offers advanced positioning, posture detection, and real-time feedback, setting a new standard in reliable PCB handling processes.

Before the robotic arm picks up the PCB, the GFL-Z series laser displacement sensor accurately measures the PCB’s position on the surface, identifying any deviation relative to the robot’s pre-set pickup location. Based on the triangulation measurement principle, the sensor achieves a repeatability accuracy of 10 µm within a 25 to 35 mm measurement range. By detecting the PCB’s coordinate deviation in the X-Y plane, the sensor provides precise positioning data, ensuring accurate grasping actions and preventing PCB damage caused by incorrect positioning.

When the robotic arm transports the PCB to the target location, the laser displacement sensor plays a critical role again, detecting the precise coordinates of the target location. This ensures the PCB is placed at the predefined position with micron-level precision. Such accuracy is essential for subsequent processing steps (e.g., component insertion, soldering), enhancing production efficiency and significantly reducing defects caused by positional errors.

During transportation, the PCB may experience tilting or rotational changes. The laser displacement sensor detects posture changes by measuring height differences at various points on the PCB. For instance, if the sensor identifies that one corner is significantly lower than the others, it can infer that the PCB is tilted. The robotic arm can then adjust its grasping and placement actions accordingly, ensuring proper posture during handling.

Due to material properties or external factors (e.g., temperature, pressure), the PCB may deform. The GFL-Z series laser displacement sensor scans the PCB surface and compares the data with standard models to quickly detect deformations. If deformation is detected, the system can take actions such as halting transportation, issuing alerts, or adjusting handling strategies to prevent faults in subsequent processes caused by deformation.

During the handling process, the laser displacement sensor continuously monitors the relative position of the PCB and its surrounding environment. For example, if the sensor detects a few millimeters of displacement along the Z-axis, the control system can immediately adjust the robotic arm’s movement parameters to maintain positional accuracy throughout transportation.

Based on real-time data from the sensor, the robotic arm’s path planning system dynamically adjusts the transportation route. If obstacles are detected along the predefined path or the PCB’s position deviates, the system recalculates a safe and efficient route. This enhances the robotic arm’s flexibility and adaptability in complex production environments.