Precision Fluid Dispensing in Compact Camera Module Assembly

How to Increase the Production and Performance of CCMs

Camera module technology has been rapidly evolving since the 1800s — from the very first pinhole camera to the 4K cameras in mobile devices we see today. The demand for compact cameras with the highest image quality, best pixel size, and optimal camera type have created exponential growth in the compact camera module (CCM) market.

As camera module manufacturers continue to improve processes as the technology advances, they will continue to face challenges. Some frequent roadblocks include the miniaturization of image sensors and the high cost of camera modules. Therefore, preventing fluid waste and rework will continue to be important production goals.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how Nordson EFD precision fluid dispensing solutions improve the production and performance of compact camera modules to meet growing demand.

Lens Module Application

Application #1. Lens to lens barrel bonding

Fluids used:

• UV-cure adhesives
• Thermal-cure adhesives

Application Requirements:

Lens bonding applications require uniform deposits and precise deposit placement. Fluid should not migrate onto the surface of the lens. Migration can impact the amount of light that is filtered through the lens, which impacts image quality. Precise deposit placement is required in hard-to-reach places like the edge of the barrel wall to hold the lens in place.

Dispensing Solutions:

• PICO Pµlse jet valve
• PROPlus Series automated dispensing system

The PICO Pµlse jetting system provides the greatest accuracy at the highest speeds to dispense precise amounts of adhesive at the edge of the barrel wall. This valve applies micro-deposits as small as 0.5 nL at up to 1000Hz (cycles per second) continuous.

When integrating the PICO Pµlse valve with the PROPlus Series dispensing robot, this valve meets the exact deposit placement requirements for lens module assembly. The PROPlus increases CCM first-pass yields with specialized trigger mark commands.

Voice Coil Motor (VCM) Module Application

Application #1. Magnets to yoke bonding

Fluids Used:

• UV-cure adhesives
• Epoxies

Application Requirements:

This application requires precise, repeatable dispensing and exact fluid deposit placement.

Dispensing Solutions:

• PICO Pµlse jet valve
• xQR41 needle valve
• UltimusPlus fluid dispensers
• PROPlus automated dispensing system

The PICO Pµlse jetting system allows dispensing onto uneven surfaces and into hard-to-reach areas without ever contacting the workpiece. It can meet exact micro-deposit tolerances at ± 1% repeatedly for precise process control.

xQR41 provides consistent microdots as small as 150 µm wide. It’s 60% smaller form factor allows it to dispense into tight spaces at more complex angles. This valve also features Quick Release technology for simplified maintenance and an interchangeable design for high levels of modification.

UltimusPlus fluid dispensers provide repeatable dispensing for applications that don’t require strict deposit tolerances. They also compensate for the full-to-empty effect in syringe barrels. This means they prevent variation in deposit size as fluid volume inside the syringe barrel decreases.

The PROPlus automated dispensing system is EFD’s most advanced dispensing robot. It is designed and configured for the highest deposit placement precision and simplified usability. It delivers best-in-class repeatability at +/- 0.003 mm.

Image Sensor Application

Application #1. Die attach

Fluids Used:

• Silver epoxies (heat cure)
• Heat-cure adhesives

Application Requirements:

Repeatable fluid deposits are necessary when bonding the image sensor die to ensure the substrate will accept the die without any rejects. Easy clean up and maintenance are also required to sustain high throughput.

Dispensing Solutions:

• UltimusPlus fluid dispensers
• PROPlus automated dispensing system

The UltimusPlus fluid dispensers provide the easiest maintenance for abrasive pastes such as silver epoxies. Since these units dispense through a dispensing tip attached to a syringe barrel, there is no maintenance required aside from discarding the syringe barrel and dispense tip after use. This helps manufacturers achieve the high throughput required for these types of applications.

The PROPlus automated dispensing system features closed-loop encoding, along with smart vision and laser height sensing capabilities. These features allow the system to adjust programs automatically to compensate for both surface height changes and variations in product orientation.

Final Assembly Application

Application #1. Enclosure bonding

Fluids Used:

• UV-cure adhesives

Application Requirements:

This application requires a smooth, consistent line of material with even thickness and repeatable dispensing patterns.

Dispensing Solutions:

• 794 auger valve
• PROPlus automated dispensing system

The 794 Series auger valve system is designed to make precise, repeatable deposits of fluid. By integrating screw feed technology with precise control of dispense time, syringe pressure, and auger speed, the 794 Series system ensures consistent deposits.

The PROPlus automated dispensing system provides market-leading fluid placement accuracy, even over rough or uneven surfaces.

It’s important to note that Nordson EFD provides a solution for just about every CCM application. Download our Compact Camera Module Dispensing Guide for more information.

Watch this video to see an overview of Nordson EFD’s CCM applications.

If you have any questions about our dispensing equipment or how to improve your process, don’t hesitate to email us at [email protected].