New setup concept: Siplace Split Table Mode

At the SMT/Hybrid/Packaging trade show in Nuremberg (June 8-10, 2010) equipment maker Siemens Electronics Assembly Systems (SEAS) will present a new, software-based setup concept for SIPLACE placement machines with intelligent X-feeders. The SIPLACE Split Table Mode splits the component tables at the SMT line virtually and assigns their feeder positions to two consecutive setups. That way, one area can be used to manufacture a previously optimized product while the other area is used to prepare for the next product without having to stop the line. This new “floating” setup concept is especially useful for electronics manufacturer with great product diversity and relatively few component overlaps. They can now execute their product changeovers with no downtime, reduce their investment in component tables and insert rush orders into their production schedule more quickly and easily.

The new "floating” SIPLACE Split Table Mode makes it possible to change setups while the line keeps running and without having to invest in a second set of component tables. The software splits the existing component tables on line virtually in the SIPLACE setup optimizer. The software-based optimization and subsequent setup of the X-feeders for a particular product therefore applies only to a defined area of each component tables. The remaining areas and feeder slots can thus be used to set up the next product without having to interrupt the line. As a result, the changeover from one product to the next can be executed with no downtime.

SIPLACE placement machines with one gantry offer additional options:

With SIPLACE machines with one gantry, the user can additionally set up in “single side mode”. With this option, the software-based optimization assigns the product setup to component tables on the left or right side of the line. While the production line manufactures the product with the tables on one side of the line, the operators can set up the next product or product family on the tables on the other side.

With these floating, no-stop changeovers, products whose placement volume requires only part of the line’s feeder capacity can now be manufactured much more efficiently than before – and without having to invest in additional component carts. The virtual split technique also makes it easier to insert rush orders into the production schedule. This is particularly useful for electronics manufacturers who want to produce small and medium-sized lots of various products with speed and efficiency for their customers.