block diagram represents an automated PCB etching
machine equipped with a timer to enhance precision
and safety in the PCB production process. Here’s an
explanation of the blocks in the diagram, as they align
with the abstract and image: AC Supply: This
provides the initial electrical power re quired for the
entire system. Transformer: Converts the AC supply
into a lower voltage level suitable for the components
in the circuit. Rectifier: Converts the AC voltage into
DC voltage to power electronic components such as
the micro-controller. Regulator: Ensures the DC
voltage remains stable and within the range required
by the system components, protecting them from
fluctuations. Micro-controller: Serves as the core
processing unit of the system. It controls the operation
of the etching machine, including timing and safety
functions. It interfaces with other components like the
LCD display, buzzer, relay, and DC motor to
automate the etching process.
LCD Display: Provides a user interface to display
real-time information, such as the etching time and
operational status. Buzzer: Alerts the user when the
etching process is complete or in case of any errors,
improving safety and usability. Relay: Acts as a
switch controlled by the micro controller to regulate
the power supply to the DC motor, which is
responsible for operating the etching mechanism. DC
Motor: Drives the mechanical components of the etch
ing machine, such as agitation or movement of the
PCB during the etching process, ensuring uniform
results The diagram shows a micro controller-based
system that controls various components. AC power
is stepped down by a transformer, converted to DC by
a rectifier, and regulated for stability. The micro
controller runs the system, displaying info on the
LCD, controlling a DC motor via relays, and
triggering a buzzer for alerts. The entire process is
programmed.
5 METHODOLOGY
The methodology for developing a ”smart timer-
controlled PCB etching system for next-generation
precision manufacturing” is designed to incorporate
high-precision timing control and programmable
settings and integrate with the internet of things in the
goal of optimizing the etching process. A micro
controller-based system, such as Arduino or STM32,
would be used at the base level to ensure precise
timing and control over the etching process. These
micro controllers will perform the core functions,
including controlling etching time along with
temperatures and agitation of the solution to achieve
uniform etch. According to previous works, this
mechanism was enabled in the system under
construction. This will make possible flexible
essential parameters, namely, etching time,
temperature, and stage setting, for several designs and
various materials used in PCBs. This is along the
principles of automation with flexibility and
personalization in the manufacturing system of PCB
that takes center stage. The fact that the system is
programmable means that it incorporates features and
suitability for varying etching needs which do not
require manual readjustment, ensuring efficiency and
precision. It will be Io T-capable for real-time
monitoring and control of the system based on the
model constructed by continuous data accumulation
from parameters such as temperature and etching
progress, so that adjustments may be done remotely
through a dedicated interface in terms of the real-time
feed back and control strategy. In addition, automated
calibration techniques will be incorporated into it,
ensuring uniform performance and avoiding down
times, with maintenance reminders to the users.
Another benefit is that it will include multi-step
etching features to manage intricate PCB designs.
These characteristics will enable the etching of
intricate designs for the highest caliber of results.
Finally, as previous research has shown the
importance of safety and simplicity of integration into
a manufacturing system, safety features and
adaptability will be established.
Ferric Chloride (FeCl3) for PCB Etching Ferric
chlo ride(FeCl3) is one of the most commonly used
et-chants for printed circuit board (PCB) etching due
to its affordability, efficiency, and widespread
availability. The chemical reaction involved in the
etching process is: The chemical reaction is: CuCl2
+Cu− >2CuCl (1) In this reaction, copper reacts with
ferric chloride, producing copper chloride (CuCl2)
and ferrous chloride (FeCl2). The ferric chloride
oxidizes the copper, effectively removing un wanted
areas and exposing the desired circuit pattern. This
reaction is efficient and provides reliable results, mak
ing ferric chloride a popular choice in both hobbyist
and professional PCB fabrication. In preparation for
the etching solution, dissolve 1 part ferric chloride in
2 parts water. Add the ferric chloride to the water
slowly, and not the other way around, so that the
solution is not splashed and a burn is not experienced.
Heating the solution to 40-50°C increases the
reaction, reducing the etching time to 10-20 minutes.
The process is agitated gently so that copper is
removed uniformly and does not etch unevenly.
Despite its efficacy, ferric chloride has some
disadvantages. It permanently stains surfaces and