Automation requires the use of robots and their electronic components. One of the most important aspects of robotics is the PCBA for electronic control and operation. With the use of robotics in many industries, it becomes more valuable to find PCBA production solutions that meet the needs of automation equipment.
PCBA provides the control system, which is one of the five main components to ensure the operation of the robot. Other major parts of the robot are sensors, motion and feedback, body and power. Since PCBA must work to control the robot, robot manufacturers cannot compromise on the design and structure of PCBA.
Design Considerations for Robot PCBA
PCBA processing starts from the schematic diagram. This design phase is critical to outlining the components and layout on the board. Be specific when designing PCB to avoid problems during evaluation or manufacturing. Various considerations during design include routing width, hole size, and package design.
PCB wiring width
The wire width determines the space available for carrying current. Both the power cord and the ground wire use routing. Both should be wide enough. In addition, you should not create any layouts that require sharp 90 degree turns in the route.
If the wiring size is not wide enough, the components on the PCB may be thermally damaged. However, the wire size shall not be too wide to interfere with other components in PCBA manufacturing. Various tools for PCB design can help you calculate the necessary width of wiring on the board.
PCB drilling size
The drilling size determines the width of the hole cut into the PCB. However, do not use the required distance when the appropriate hole size is indicated on the chart. Increase it a little. The solder will fill some of the space, reduce the required hole size and make up for any differences between the required space and the hole.
In addition, plan to ensure that the drill hole is not more than 0.010 inch from the routing, plane, or pad. In addition, the diameter of the hole shall not be less than 0.008 inch.
Packaging Design of PCBA
During the design process, be sure to unpack the view created. Generally, you want to generate the bottom view of the PCBA manufacturer’s package. If you use it at the top, mirror the design to ensure component symmetry.
Due to the limited space on the package, please consider using both sides. For example, place a surface mount device on the bottom and a through-hole assembly on the top. In addition, if necessary, use more compact connectors to save space.
Challenges Faced by Robot PCBA
Robotic circuit boards face multiple challenges to ensure their normal operation. To ensure the operation of the robot, PCB must be of high quality. Risk avoidance is essential, especially for robot applications that endanger people’s lives or safety.
Quality of robot PCBA
The quality of PCB means using circuit boards that follow the quality assurance process in the manufacturing process. Seek ISO9001: 2015 certification from PCB suppliers. Your robot PCB supplier should also comply with industry specific certification requirements, such as IPC-6012 and IPC-A-600. Compliance with established standards helps to ensure the quality of the finished plate.
Risk management in PCBA design
Mitigating the risk of PCBA is another challenge facing robotics. It is essential for PCBA chip processing plants to check the design of the circuit board to ensure manufacturability and avoid problems. For example, a design review prior to engineering using a design rule check ensures that the overall design is effective. It checks the space and wiring, aspect ratio, open circuit or short circuit in PCB design. After reminding the customer, we can have time to solve these problems and avoid the risk of improper design of PCBA.
