Traqu, the new 3D measurement system from Essemtec, delivers more than traditional AOI systems. A tomographic infrared probe creates a digital 3-D model of an object with an accuracy of a nanometer. Using this model, any type of measurement can be made later: volumes, heights, distances, surface roughness and more. The measuring principle works with any kind of surface, reflective or matte.
A PCB or a component can long be used, processed and delivered to the customer but it is still possible to verify, if it had been within specifications. The Traqu scans the surface of an object in 3-D. It is so accurate that all measurements and analyses can be made on the digital model at a later date and even in a different location.
Users can freely define any required measurements. For example, the Traqu can analyze the surface profile along a given line, calculate volumes, determine distances or even measure the surface roughness in a given area. The device also can determine layer thickness because the tomographic infrared probe works very similarly to an ultrasound probe. The scanner can resolve details down to nanometer resolution.
Because of its flexibility and independence, Traqu is ideal for analysis and documentation in the development process, for tasks in quality control or for inspection of incoming goods. The measurement system works extremely quickly, up to a million frames per second. Additionally, it can even be used as a handheld device, eliminating the need for a heavy granite plate.
The 3-D scanner is mounted on a precise XY portal and can digitize surfaces up to 400 x 300 mm. Therefore, it can scan a complete PCB at once, even with components on it. There are no shadows, parallax errors or damages because the scanning beam is vertical and low energy.
