X-Ray Inspection System offers automatic loading/unloading.

Press Release Summary:




Equipped with Automated Defect Recognition, FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO fits seamlessly into SMT manufacturing lines and provides quantitative analysis of PCB components using modular design. GUI and CNC allow operator to configure automation process. HDX-Ray(TM) 16-bit imaging chain captures real-time digital images with film-like quality, while True X-Ray Intensity control provides immediate and long-term stability of X-ray intensity as well as constant image contrast and brightness.



Original Press Release:



New Fully Automated X-Ray Inspection System from COMET Enhances Yield in SMT Assembly



GARBSEN, GERMANY - COMET announces the FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO X-Ray inspection system, providing manufacturers with Fully Automated X-Ray inspection capability. Featuring automatic loading and unloading and Automated Defect Recognition (ADR) technology, the FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO fits seamlessly into SMT manufacturing lines. Fully Automated X-Ray inspection is becoming pro-gressively more important, as the increasing use of BGAs and hidden solder connections in PCB as-semblies requires X-Ray inspection to detect abnormalities that may be hidden from traditional optical inspection systems.

The FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO is unique, as it is the only automated X-Ray inspection system that provides quantitative analysis of PCB components using a modular design. Used in conjunction with traditional automated optical inspection (AOI) systems, the FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO enhances yield by detecting defects that cannot be identified solely through AOI. The system features FEINFOCUS Graphical User Interface (FGUI) and advanced Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) for user-friendly programming, allowing the operator to configure the automation process.

The system utilizes a conveyor system for automatic loading and unloading of parts to be inspected. The samples are first introduced into a loading station that is fitted onto the side of the COUGAR PRO. From there the conveyor loads the sample into the pre-programmed imaging position, enabling the standard 5-axes manipulator to control the sample to be inspected with collision-free protection. After initial automated inspection, the results can be viewed on the screen or in SPC data format. Upon completion of the inspection, the sample can be inspected manually for further analysis or removed and reinserted into the production line.

The FEINFOCUS COUGAR PRO has been optimized for automatic inspection, meaning manufacturers do not have to sacrifice X-Ray image quality. Proprietary COMET ADR technology greatly reduces analysis time in the production line with fast and accurate recognition of solder voids and other abnormalities.

COMET's patented HDX-Ray(TM) 16-bit imaging chain captures real-time high-resolution digital images with film-like quality. True X-Ray Intensity (TXI) control provides immediate and long-term stability of X-Ray intensity as well as constant image contrast and brightness.

The small, ergonomic design of the system makes it ideal for any manufacturing environment, as it features a small footprint (approximately 1 m x 1 m), low system weight (approximately 1,600 kg), and convenient front- and side-door service access.

COMET is a successful international technology company in the growth markets of security, inspection, electronics and communication. As an expert in the field of applied physics, COMET provides a complete and highly flexible portfolio of components, modules, systems, and services from a single source.

COMET's Business Unit FEINFOCUS is the world's leading manufacturer of high-resolution automated X-Ray inspection systems, with more than 2,500 installations worldwide in high-productivity environments such as Electronics, Semiconductor Packaging, Automotive, Aerospace, and Medical Device. The company also offers full in-house X-Ray inspection services, such as failure analysis and component defect detection, and is a multi-year recipient of the electronics industry's prestigious Service Excellence Award. As the pioneer of Microfocus, Nanofocus, and Multifocus X-Ray inspection technologies, Business Unit FEINFOCUS has demonstrated leadership in product innovation in X-Ray inspection, including True X-Ray Intensity (TXI) control, Auto Isocentric Motion (AIM) technology for oblique inspection, and PCT/ACT imaging. The company encourages its customers to participate in on-site customer training and system demonstrations, and invites them to take full advantage of its applications development centers in Garbsen, Germany; Shanghai, China; Stamford, CT USA; and San Jose, CA USA.

COMET was founded in 1948 and is based in Flamatt near Berne, Switzerland. Production is carried out in Switzerland and Germany; the sales subsidiaries in the U.S. and China are complemented by a worldwide network of representatives.

COMET: The X-perts for security, inspection, electronics, and communication

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