Evolution of a System for the Production of Electronics Equipment-Mechanization of All Lot Sizes

It is reported that as of last year, an estimated 627,000,000 component parts have been mechanically assembled into 26,000,000 printed wiring boards. It is stated that the production equipment requirements and desires of the various assemblers of electronics equipment vary from a single bench-mounted inserting machine (for small lots), to the punched-card-controlled automatic-assembly machine, or even the automatic conveyor. It is pointed out that there is no one piece of equipment that will satisfy the needs of all assemblers; but that the DYNASERT system described can satisfy most. The paper includes a discussion of: a) factors governing the choice of a system, b) development of the DYNASERT machine system, including machines for component-part preparation, insertion---4 types, and conveying--up to 48 stations, c) varying the system to meet changing production demands, d) considerations affecting design for mechanical assembly, and e) benefits of mechanized assembly. An account is given of five users, making from 20 to 7000 panels per day, where all showed a considerable saving through mechanization. It is concluded that nearly all assemblers can utilize mechanized assembly to advantage, with the choice and size depending upon many factors. It is stressed that Military designs should be made compatible with mechanized assembly to provide for expansion in a National emergency. Finally, it is emphasized that mechanical assembly offers a means of increasing production in the face of a reduced labor force as related to the increasing popu- lation.