Development of placement time estimator function for a turret style surface mount placement machine

Abstract Efficiently placing printed circuit board (PCB) components is critically important in the highly competitive electronics industry. Previous research has focused on algorithms to determine feeder arrangement and placement sequencing for placement machines. However, consistent machine models do not exist that can be used to compare the results of these algorithms. A conceptual model of a placement time estimator function is constructed for turret style surface mount technology (SMT) placement machines. Empirical data is then used to develop the estimator function for the Fuji CP4-3 machine. Results for eight commercial PCB designs indicate that there is no statistical difference between the actual and the estimated placement times. Thus, the placement time estimator function developed in this research provides an accurate method to estimate component placements times on a PCB by a Fuji CP4-3. The placement time estimator function presented here can be used as part of a computer integrated manufacturing system to facilitate process planning and improve cycle time estimates for production planning purposes.