3D AOI measures visible surface heights to assess lifted leads, raised components and relative coplanarity. Results depend on the reference plane, reflectivity, occlusion and calibration. A picking pose from a robot camera is a different output from an AOI defect decision.
How to validate
Define datums and tolerances, then test tall-component shadows, board warpage and reflective finishes. Use reference artefacts and repeated measurements to assess repeatability, followed by production-board trials. Diced chips and bare dies need a separately qualified imaging and handling setup.
Project evaluation checklist
- Define the item, visible inspection surfaces and minimum defects; separate appearance, internal structure and electrical or functional checks.
- Prepare verified good, defective and borderline samples across lots; separate training and acceptance sets.
- Report escapes and false calls by defect class, with review workload, complete cycle time and repeatability.
- Confirm program versions, permissions, retention and traceability fields; approve production only after trials pass.
Continue with
2D AOI machines
Visible appearance, components and markings.
→3D AOI machines
Visible surface height and coplanarity.
→AOI software
Programming, review, model management and traceability.
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