Enabling manufacturers to flexibly incorporate the digital efficiency and production quality allowed by automated systems, ASM will unveil software and hardware solutions for the integrated smart factory from Booth 2800 at the January 25 – 27 IPC APEX EXPO (APEX) in San Diego, CA. Taking control of manufacturing lines shouldn’t be restricted to proprietary systems but, rather, should rely on open automation that leverages universal interfaces to allow communication up and down the line, throughout the factory and across the global enterprise, always with an eye on the return-on-investment. This is Open Automation and what ASM will reveal at APEX.

Total Automation, Regardless of Platform

With the Open Automation concept, current production lines can be integrated for a seamless approach while enabling future scalability. Hermes and IPC-CFX open interfaces facilitate machine-to-machine communication regardless of equipment manufacturer, and MES solutions like those from ASM’s sister company Critical Manufacturing deliver total enterprise connectivity, automation and traceability for implementation of Industry 4.0. And, with ASM Works Command Center, even management of personnel resources can be modernized for all systems in the factory. Transforming from reactive to proactive line oversight, Command Center pushes notifications about machine conditions directly to operators via an Android-based PDA. Tasks are prioritized based on urgency and operator skill level so that staff can be allocated accordingly, allowing manufacturers to optimize workforce efficiency. Throughout the three-day event, ASM Open Automation applications will be shown on a life-sized video wall and on the line in the ASM booth.

No Trade-Offs: Flexibility and Speed

At the center of the display, ASM’s most powerful printing and placement technologies will highlight the company’s equipment innovation leadership. Seven systems including a DEK NeoHorizon 03iX printer, high-precision ASM ProcessLens solder paste measurement machine, three high-speed SIPLACE TX placement systems, and the workhorse SIPLACE SX2 combine to showcase the breadth of options for a modular, connected factory. New on the SIPLACE SX2 is the incorporation of odd-shaped and through-hole component placement with clinching capability, as well as new grippers that can be integrated on the SIPLACE MultiStar placement head. Also on show is the latest DEK platform, the ultra-fast and accurate DEK TQ, designed for uninterrupted printing of the most advanced assemblies. The DEK TQ sets new standards in performance, efficiency, and precision. With dual-covers for non-stop paste replenishment, eight-hour consumables supply for a full shift run with no stoppages, wet print accuracy of 17.5 µm @ 2 Cpk and 5-second cycle time capability, the DEK TQ takes stencil printing to a new level. Features of the DEK TQ also include All-Purpose Clamping (APC), smart pin placement and a host of productivity tools -- all in a small, 1.3 square meter footprint.

Sophisticated platforms for the midspeed sector round out ASMs equipment showing at the event; show delegates can see the E by DEK and E by SIPLACE systems in Technica Booth 2611.

ASM Works: Shop Floor Management

Featured in a dedicated off-line space within the ASM booth is ASM Works, the modular shop floor management software suite that incorporates planning, material management, factory monitoring, traceability and much more. Manufacturers can select the elements that are relevant to their production requirements, and even integrate third-party hardware for some features such as ASM Command Center. ASM Works will be presented throughout various booth stations, highlighting its modularity within different workflows.

Experience it All, In-Person and On-Camera

Much like its open automation approach, ASM’s presence at APEX will allow SMT specialists to take part in the event however it works best for them: in-person or connected online. A live, state-of-the-art broadcast studio inside ASM’s booth is set to host expert panelists discussing everything from pandemic response to connectivity standards to transformative service and support models. Details and live viewing links will be shared with customers in mid-January.

ASM looks forward to welcoming guests and helping them develop a customized solution for the integrated smart factory. APEX attendees can register to visit the show here. Those interested in scheduling demonstrations with an ASM technical specialist can send an email to: ogden.mark@asmpt.com.