Count On Tools Inc (COT) of Gainesville, GA, USA, a provider of precision components and SMT spare parts, has been invited to take part in the Cree Solution Provider program (CSP). The CSP network was created by LED chip, lamp and lighting fixture maker Cree Inc of Durham, NC, USA in late 2007 to help lighting manufacturers find complementary components from third-party manufacturers that work with Cree's LED products. The CSP program aims to help lighting manufacturers by enabling a shorter design cycle to get products to market faster.
Count On Tools says that, recognizing concerns with LED component handling during the pick-and-place process, it developed a new nozzle platform designed to overcome the tackiness or stickiness of the LED substrates (flashing). The firm's SMT nozzle designs for Cree LEDs avoid placing mechanical stress on the LED lens by limiting contact with the optical surface during component picking or placement processes, eliminating the possibility of degraded performance from the LED after the circuit board is assembled.
Count On Tools' new technology uses an exclusive urethane material to create a vacuum bond with components that is guaranteed to improve placement accuracy and reliability with LED components while overcoming issues with the substrate. The new design also improves LED component release onto the board, preventing misplaced LEDs, lost components or miss-picks.
Cree understands that for solid-state lighting products to be successful, not only are the best and brightest LEDs on the market required, but the knowledge and support to handle these components in a high-speed, accurate manufacturing process is critical.
"Alliances with companies like Count On Tools are an essential part of delivering energy-efficient, high-quality Cree LED lighting solutions to the market," says David Cox, director of alliance development with Cree. "Their latest pick-and-place designs can help lighting manufacturers accurately and consistently place Cree LED components using their existing SMT equipment."
Count On Tools also understands that, in order for their customers to remain competitive in today's market, they must be able to cut costs while simultaneously maximizing the capabilities of SMT assembly equipment in order to prevent costly investments in new equipment or increased labor from hand placements of odd-form components. The new line of LED nozzles for Cree LEDs enables better placement with odd-form components in machines while saving money, Count On Tools claims.
