<title>Algorithm design for use in cross-sectional x-ray image analysis of solder joints</title>

Abstract

This paper introduces algorithm design concepts that have proven useful in real-time X-ray solder joint inspection systems. Real-time industrial inspection systems face tremendous challenges, which are not always obvious when first designing such systems. The goal of this paper is to introduce a few of these challenges, as well as software and algorithm methodologies that effectively deal with some of these challenges. Specific examples included involve the real-time inspection of circuit board solder joints using cross-sectional X-ray images. Methods for dealing with solder joint orientations, utilities preserving subpixel and subgray level accuracy, and designs enabling code sharing are presented.