Polaris Junior Assembly Cell – Scalable, Single-Process Automation

July 2, 2015

July 2, 2015 – Universal Instruments’ Polaris Junior features multiple standard cell widths with common controls, side covers, and frame structure for a low-cost solution with faster lead times than custom cells. This flexible solution enables cost effective, high-yielding automation of a wide range of mechanical assembly processes for electronics assemblies such as medical monitoring devices, automotive sensors, hybrid, and semiconductor packages.

Scalable size for the application

Scalable Cover Package Design

  • Common side covers and frame structure
  • Cross members grow to match application needs
  • Machine widths from 750mm to 1500mm
  • Touch screen user interface front (rear optional)

Control Cabinet Flex Mounting

  • The control cabinet can be mounted on the floor or hanging from the back of the machine

Configuration

Gantry Overhangs Conveyors

  • Allows for compatibility with wide range of conveyors
  • Allows for easy installation and relocation

PLC Control

  • Omron PLC control
  • Network capable
  • PC can be easily added for traceability, file storage, or messaging

Head Interface

  • Same interface as Polaris Multi-process
  • Any tool created for that interface will be capable of adapting to this cell

Proven Positioning System

  • NSK Sealed, lead screw drive
  • Servo Driven X and Y axis offered in multiple lengths
  • X: 750mm, 1000mm, 1250mm, 1500mm. Y: 800mm
  • Pneumatic slides available for simple stroke
  • Combinations of Pneumatic and servo are possible

a2

Polaris Junior Application

1000mm Junior with Screwdriver

  • This machine is a three axis servo machine
  • Equipped with a Webber, Electric Screw driver
  • The conveyor that the customer selected was MagStar

a3a4

In-Line Press Platform

  • This application is built on Universal’s press platform
  • This machine is equipped with a servo press from Schmidt technologies
  • The press is capable of sensing pressure in 2 oz increments with a maximum of 300lbs
  • The structure is capable of pressures up to 2000 lbs

a5

1500mm Polaris Junior

  • This application is built on Universal’s Polaris Junior Platform
  • The function will be a test handling application
  • There will be 5 test nests that the machine will have access to load and unload
  • The stages are micro positioning stages for the test nest
  • Each stage will precisely position the product using a camera, before applying the probes

a6a7

a8a9

1500mm Polaris Junior

  • Large Work area for applications

[icon icon=”film” size=”small” style=”simple” shape=”inherit”][/icon] Video: Junior with RF & Shaker

a10

Contact Stan Earley by +1-607-725-5129 or earleys@uic.com or go to our website https://www.uic.com/solutions/automation/ for more information on Automation.

More Related Posts

The Agile Learner: An Ode to e-Learning

In April 2025, I took my first e-Learning course: Surface Mount Operator Suite. I have no formal education in precision automation solutions for the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing industry. With this being said, I was unsure if I’d be able to comprehend the course material, much less keep up with it. After diving in and now completing the course, I can honestly say it is suitable for anyone with the capacity to learn, and it is more user-friendly than I could’ve anticipated.

“Moore” Is Better with Heterogeneous Integration

As Moore’s Law slows, Heterogeneous Integration (H.I.) is emerging as the smarter path forward—combining multiple specialized dies (logic, memory, RF, power) into one compact, high-performance package. This blog explores how H.I. is transforming everything from smartphones to datacenters, and how advanced platforms like FuzionSC™ + High-Speed Wafer Feeder are simplifying complex multi-die assembly. The result? Faster development, lower costs, and better chips—built for the future.

“Fish-Eyed” Press-Fit Pins Challenges & Solutions

Traditional inspection methods fall short when it comes to next-gen “fish-eyed” press-fit pins—whose flared, asymmetrical geometry makes them nearly impossible to evaluate with 2D vision systems. One misaligned pin on a $15K board can mean catastrophic failure down the line. That’s why we’ve implemented precision 3D laser inspection across our platforms—combining upward and downward vision, sub-micron accuracy, and custom tooling to catch defects in real time and ensure flawless placement the first time, every time.