Vision-Guided Automated Laser Soldering Systemfor PCB Assembly

Project Objectives

A compact laser-soldering workstation using stored product recipes, CCD solder-point positioning, automatic solder feeding, and three-axis motion control to support multiple PCB configurations.

The project aimed to replace repetitive manual point-by-point soldering with a fixture-based automated process while retaining simple manual loading and unloading. The system also needed to support several PCB types without rebuilding the complete workstation for each product.

Automatically locate solder points and guide the laser-soldering head.
Store separate soldering coordinates and parameters for different PCB models.
Integrate automatic solder feeding with three-axis positioning.
Operate with one person responsible for fixture loading and unloading.

Our Solution

Fixture-Based Multi-Product Changeover

PCB boards and their components are loaded into dedicated fixtures. The locating platform accepts different fixtures, while the industrial PC stores the soldering coordinates and process settings for each PCB model. Operators select the corresponding recipe through the interface when changing products.

Vision-Guided Laser Soldering

The CCD system identifies the actual solder-point location. A three-axis platform positions the semiconductor laser head, while the automatic solder feeder supplies solder to the target point. This arrangement reduces dependence on fixed mechanical coordinates alone.

Compact Standalone Workstation

The soldering mechanism, fixture platform, industrial control system, and safety enclosure are integrated into one standalone cabinet. Dual confirmation buttons are included for controlled cycle start during manual fixture loading.

Process Flow

The operator loads the fixture, selects the stored PCB recipe, and starts the cycle. The CCD locates the solder points, after which the motion platform, laser head, and solder feeder complete the programmed soldering path.

Key Equipment Solutions

No.	Equipment Solution	Role in the System
1	Fixture Loading and Positioning Platform	Secures the PCB fixture in a repeatable position and supports changeover between different PCB models and component configurations.
2	CCD Vision Positioning System	Identifies the actual solder-joint coordinates and guides the soldering head to compensate for PCB, fixture, and component-position variations.
3	Semiconductor Laser Soldering Unit	Applies controlled laser energy to each solder joint to complete the PCB component soldering process.
4	Automatic Solder Wire Feeder	Delivers solder wire to the welding point in coordination with the laser soldering cycle.
5	Three-Axis Motion Platform	Moves the vision and soldering assembly between programmed soldering points with repeatable positioning.
6	Industrial PC and Recipe Management	Stores soldering coordinates and process programs for different PCB models, allowing operators to select the required recipe through the interface.
7	Safety Enclosure and Two-Hand Controls	Restricts access to the laser soldering area and requires deliberate operator input before the automatic cycle begins.

Specification

Specification	Value	Notes
Application	PCB Laser Soldering	Designed for vision-guided automatic soldering of different PCB models and component configurations.
Overall Dimensions	850 × 850 × 1850 mm	Reference dimensions of the main machine body, L × W × H.
Compressed Air Supply	0.5–0.6 MPa	Required operating air pressure for the machine’s pneumatic mechanisms.
Power Supply	AC 220V	Required electrical power supply for the complete soldering system.
Soldering Cycle Time	1.8 seconds per joint	Reference processing time specified for each individual solder joint.
Control System	Industrial PC	Stores soldering coordinates and process recipes for different PCB models.
Required Operators	1	One operator is required for fixture loading, program selection, and product unloading.
Positioning Method	CCD Vision + Three-Axis Motion	CCD vision identifies solder-joint coordinates and guides the three-axis platform to the programmed position.
Solder Supply	Automatic Solder Wire Feeding	Solder wire is delivered automatically in coordination with the laser soldering cycle.