Speedline Technologies Inc. (Franklin, MA), announced it has entered into an exclusive agreement with the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech, Atlanta, GA) for the license of patent-pending closed-loop printing technology.  The intellectual property facilitates the closing of the loop between an automated optical inspection (AOI) system and a printer with the intent to optimize the volume of printed paste deposits.

"The agreement governs the terms for commercial development of this intellectual property for ultimate product sale," said Robert Boyes, product marketing manager, Speedline Technologies. "We are honored to join with Georgia Tech to develop product technologies that will generate profound benefits for printed circuit board manufacturers. The goal of this partnership is to advance process control technology for the printing
process, which will ultimately provide improved yield opportunities for customers."

The closed-loop printing technology was developed by Georgia Tech at the Center for Board Assembly Research (CBAR). Recent proof of concept testing conducted at Speedline validated Georgia Tech's findings. The technology embodies algorithms that utilize hybrid data-driven control techniques for calculating independent variable modifications. This effectively changes machine parameters in real time and improves process yields and product reliability.  

"Data-driven closed loop control is essential for electronics manufacturing industry," said Alex Goldstein, director of operations and infrastructure at CBAR.  "With help from the industry, CBAR will continue this work for different processes in electronics manufacturing."

Georgia Tech recognized Speedline as a valued CBAR partner at APEX 2004 in
February in Anaheim, CA.
 
 www.speedlinetech.com

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