Abstract: A method and structure are provided for aligning SMDs to a substrate. The body of an SMD and that portion of a substrate encircled by the electrical interconnect pads each have a mating physical structure such that the SMD may be quickly placed in the general vicinity of its proper location and the mating physical features cause a precise alignment. In one embodiment, the physical features are nonsymmetrical, thereby preventing accidental placement of the SMD in an undesired rotation. In another embodiment, the physical features vary among device types, thereby ensuring that an improper device is not placed in a particular location on the substrate. In another embodiment, a component carrier is provided which includes depressions for the placement of the SMDs. A vacuum is applied to the carrier which holds each of the SMDs in place. The carrier is then placed in a desired physical relationship with the substrate such that each of the devices held in the carrier is properly aligned with the substrate.

Abstract: An automatic lead sensing and fine-forming system is disclosed for preparing the leads of electronic components so that they are ready to be inserted by robots into holes on printed circuit boards. The positions of the lead tips and the positions of the holes are sensed and compared to determine if any leads need to be bent. These leads are then bent and the force on the leads and their displacement are sensed and recorded during the process. The data recorded in then used for subsequent bendings, where necessary, for bending the leads to the target locations so that all the leads fit simultaneously into the holes. To simplify image processing, the lead tips are illuminated by light originating from substantially isotropic directions from locations substantially coplanar with the region of the lead tips.

Abstract: An automatic lead sensing and fine-forming system is disclosed for preparing the leads of electronic components so that they are ready to be inserted by robots into holes on printed circuit boards. The positions of the lead tips and the positions of the holes are sensed and compared to determine if any leads need to be bent. These leads are then bent and the force on the leads and their displacement are sensed and recorded during the process. The data recorded is then used for subsequent bendings, where necessary, for bending the leads to the target locations so that all the leads fit simultaneously into the holes. To simplify image processing, the lead tips are illuminated by light originating from substantially isotropic directions from locations substantially coplanar with the region of the lead tips.

Abstract: An automatic lead sensing and fine-forming system is disclosed for preparing the leads of electronic compnents so that they are ready to be inserted by robots into holes on printed circuit boards. The positions of the lead tips and the positions of the holes are sensed and compared to determine if any leads need to be bent. These leads are then bent and the force on the leads and their displacement are sensed and recorded during the process. The data recorded is then used for subsequent bendings, where necessary, for bending the leads to the target locations so that all the leads fit simultaneously into the holes. To simplify image processing, the lead tips are illuminated by light originating from substantially isotropic directions from locations substantially coplanar with the region of the lead tips.