Abstract: A combined radiative and convective rework system is provided for repair, replacement, removal and rework of an electronic component on a printed circuit board. The system includes a guide for guiding heat-inducing radiation and heated gas towards at least one lead of the electronic component, and for preventing the heat-inducing radiation from damaging the body of the component. A heater, including a source of infrared radiation, provides the heat-inducing radiation and the heated gas. In one embodiment, the guide includes a single funnel cooperative with apparatus for reducing component body heating. In second and third embodiments, the guide includes two concentric funnels which form a volume which is traversed by the heat-inducing radiation and heated gas, and which provide at least one narrow region of heat energy to at least one of the leads, but not directly to the component body.

Abstract: A variable parameter heater for applying heat in a predetermined profile to a work surface. The heater has a plurality of elongated members which are interconnected to form a frame. Elongated members are slidingly adjustable to provide the intended heat profile. Each elongated member contains first and second rows of apertures. Heated air is delivered to the work surface past selectively energized heating elements disposed in the first row of apertures. Cool air where required is delivered to the work surface through the second row of apertures. The heater may include a vacuum probe for depositing or removing components relative to the work surface. The vacuum probe may also direct cool air to the work surface. Mirrors may be mounted upon elongated members to provide enhanced viewing of the work surface. In case of disablement, elongated members are individually removeble for repair or replacement.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for viewing the aligning and soldering of an electrical component to a printed circuit board. The novel system provided the operator with a clear, close up view of the work area allowing the operator to accurately position electrical components on the work surface. Images of different sectors of the work area are received by a viewing device such as a video camera, are processed and electronically transferred to the operator's display terminal. The multiple images are displayed simultaneously on the operator's terminal. By viewing the display terminal, the operator is able to observe simultaneously the critical sectors of the work area while manipulating the electrical component with a pick-and-place head to accurately align and place the component in a pre-determined position.

Abstract: An electronic circuit board rework and repair system having a carriage manually movable to successive station positions and having a table thereon movable along mutually orthogonal axes for positioning of a circuit board clamped to the table. At a first station, a circuit board is loaded onto the table, and a microscope can be swung into position for inspection of the loaded board. At a second station, an intended component or circuit board site can be aligned by way of a visual image of the component and site, and the table locked in position. At a third station, the selected component or circuit board site is automatically in alignment with a programmable heater for selected heating of the component contacts and removal of the component by a pickup probe associated with the heater. The system is calibrated such that there is alignment between a visually established position at the second station and that component position under the heater at the third station.