SOLDAR: Supporting Low-Volume PCB Prototyping Using Collaborative Robots and Augmented Reality

Abstract

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are fundamental to modern electronics and are present in almost every electronic device. However, despite their ubiquity, current PCB assembly methods can be time-consuming and lack flexibility for one-off designs. This poster investigates how low-volume PCB prototyping can be enhanced by integrating collaborative robots (cobots) and Augmented Reality (AR). Specifically, we introduce SOLDAR, a system that facilitates the soldering of electronic through-hole components on PCBs. By using a cobot for optimal PCB positioning and AR glasses for step-by-step guidance, SOLDAR aims to streamline the assembly process. The expected outcomes are increased efficiency, reduced assembly time, and greater flexibility for low-volume PCB prototyping designs. To validate these hypotheses, user experiments are necessary.