Patent ID: 6352025
Filing Date: 2002-03-05
Classification: B41F,H05K

Abstract:
A solder printing apparatus for use within a solder printer having a z-axis plate and a solder stencil for printing solder on a flexible circuit contained with a flexible tape, the solder printing apparatus comprising:a vision and alignment mechanism for controlling the position of the flexible tape, wherein the vision and alignment mechanism sends a signal to a steering mechanism; a theta steering platform for compensating the change of direction of the flexible tape; the steering mechanism, mechanically coupled to the theta steering platform, wherein the steering mechanism adjusts the position of the flexible tape in response to receiving the signal from the vision and alignment mechanism; a printing platform, mechanically mounted on the theta steering platform, wherein the printing platform is lifted up using the z-axis plate in response to the steering mechanism adjusting the position of the flexible tape; a vacuum conveyer, mechanically mounted on the theta steering platform, wherein the vacuum conveyer holds and advances the flexible tape, and further wherein the vacuum conveyer moves along a circular pair of tracks when the printing platform is lifted; and a tension roller assembly for maintaining tension in the flexible tape while the z-axis plate moves the printing platform and the flexible tape upwards towards the solder stencil.