How to Achieve Uninterrupted Production of Multiple Component Types Using the YY1 Automatic Nozzle Change Function?

Introduction

In small-batch, high-mix electronics manufacturing environments, efficiency and flexibility are the two core factors determining success or failure. Imagine this scenario: you're placing components on a PCB that mixes 0201 resistors, 0805 capacitors, SOT23 transistors, and QFP-44 chips. Each time you switch component types, stopping the machine and manually changing tips is not only time-consuming but also prone to human error. The NeoDen YY1's ANC system was designed precisely for this scenario—it enables fully automatic switching between up to four different tip models without interrupting the placement process, truly achieving “one machine handles the entire board.”

This article combines the NeoDen YY1 user manual with practical experience to deeply analyze how to efficiently utilize the ANC function and maximize your SMT production efficiency.

I. Why is ANC so crucial for small-batch production?

In traditional manual placement or low-end SMT placement machines, nozzle changes rely entirely on manual labor. When a PCB contains multiple package sizes, the “stop-change-adjust-test” cycle severely drags down overall efficiency.

NeoDen YY1 resolves this pain point through its ANC system:

• No manual intervention: Nozzle changes are automatically triggered by software, ensuring seamless placement flow.
• Supports mixed-size placement: Handles everything from 0201 micro-components to large ICs with sides >12mm in one continuous operation.
• Enhances placement consistency: Reduces human error, preventing placement failures caused by misaligned nozzles or contamination.

Simply plan your suction nozzle layout in advance, and NeoDen YY1 intelligently dispatches the required tools.

II. Hardware Structure and Working Principle of NeoDen YY1 ANC System

To utilize ANC efficiently, first understand its hardware components:

1. Dual-head design

NeoDen YY1 features two independent placement heads (Head 1 & Head 2), each capable of mounting one nozzle, totaling two online nozzles.

2. ANC Station

Located at the front left of the workstation, it features two nozzle slots for storing spare nozzles.

3. Supports Up to 4 Simultaneous Nozzle Types

• Placement Heads: CN040 (0402 dedicated) + CN100 (0805/1206 universal)
• Replacement Station: CN220 (SOP/SOT89) + CN400 (5–12mm IC)

When switching from 0805 capacitor placement to QFP chip placement, YY1 automatically:

• Returns the current nozzle (CN100) to an empty slot in the replacement station
• Retrieves CN400 from the replacement station
• Continue placement without any downtime.

Note: ANC actions are triggered by software automatically inserting “nozzle change commands.” Users only need to configure them correctly in the placement file.

III. Practical Strategy: How to Efficiently Configure ANC for Uninterrupted Production?

Step 1: Analyze BOM, Plan Nozzle Allocation

Not all nozzles need to be placed on the exchange rack. The priority strategy is as follows:

Example:

A board contains:

• 0402 resistors/capacitors (60 pieces) → CN040 (mounted on placement head)
• 0805 Inductors (20 pcs) → CN100 (Mounted on pick-and-place head)
• SOT23 Transistors (5 pcs) → CN140 (Placed in changeover station)
• QFP-32 Chip (1 pc) → CN400 (Placed in changeover station)

This configuration ensures over 90% of components require no nozzle change, triggering an ANC action only during placement of the final few components.

Step 2: Set Nozzle and Replacement Commands in the Placement File

Enter the 【Component Edit】 page for YY1:

• Specify the nozzle model for each component type (e.g., SOT23 → CN140);
• The system will automatically insert nozzle change commands at component type transitions;

Enter the 【Nozzle Change Settings Page】 and confirm the following:

• Before which component number to change the nozzle (e.g., change CN100 → CN140 before component #86)
• Corresponding placement head number (Head 1 or 2)
• Which station to return the original nozzle to (must be empty!)
• Which station the new nozzle will be retrieved from

Critical Safety Notice:

The NeoDen YY1 user manual explicitly warns: “When setting the original nozzle from the placement head to a specific nozzle station, ensure that station is empty to prevent collision damage to the nozzle and placement head.”

It is recommended to test all nozzle change actions using “Single-Step Mode” before formal placement.

Step 3: Optimize Placement Paths to Reduce Nozzle Change Frequency

Although the NeoDen YY1 supports ANC, each nozzle change still takes 3–5 seconds. Therefore:

• Group components by nozzle type: When exporting the placement file from EDA, arrange components requiring the same nozzle together.
• Utilize the “Placement Order Adjustment” feature: Manually reorder components in the YY1 software to consolidate similar items.

This not only reduces nozzle changes but also minimizes mechanical wear, extending equipment lifespan.

IV. ANC Function Maintenance and Failure Prevention

Even with perfect configuration, ANC may fail without proper maintenance:

1. Nozzle Cleaning

• Daily Inspection: Strictly prevent solder paste, dust, or oil residue on the nozzle tip.
• Cleaning Method: Wipe the inner bore with alcohol-dampened lint-free cloth. For micro nozzles like CN030, use a fine needle to clear the bore.

2. Positioning Accuracy of Replacement Holders

• Regularly inspect for loose nozzle holders.
• Ensure nozzles are inserted vertically without tilt, as misalignment may cause pickup failure or machine collisions.

3. Vacuum Detection Coordination

NeoDen YY1 features a real-time vacuum detection module that automatically verifies suction status after nozzle changes. If the indicator bar remains off:

• Nozzle clogging
• Seal ring deterioration
• Air tube leakage

Immediately halt operation for troubleshooting to prevent empty picks or component drops.

V. How Does ANC Enhance Your Overall Production Efficiency?

Properly utilizing ANC enables

• 20%–40% placement efficiency boost: Reduced manual intervention and downtime
• Improved first-piece yield: Eliminates misplaced tips from manual changes
• Support for more complex BOMs: Eliminate task splitting due to “insufficient nozzles”
• Lowered operational barriers: Novices can handle mixed-product placement tasks

For makers, R&D teams, and SME EMS manufacturers, this translates to

• Faster prototyping and validation
• Shorter lead time responses
• Higher equipment ROI

VI. Conclusion

NeoDen YY1's Automatic Nozzle Change (ANC) function is far more than a “convenience feature”—it represents a critical leap from merely ‘functional’ to “efficient, intelligent, and flexible” equipment.

By implementing the strategies outlined in this article

• Scientifically allocate the 4 nozzle positions
• Precisely configure change commands
• Optimize placement paths
• Maintain consistent daily upkeep

For ANC setup templates or technical support, contact NeoDen team. Flexible manufacturing begins with one smart nozzle change!