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The Amp Hour Electronics Podcast
#686 – A Benchtop Pick and Place with Stephen Hawes
Jan 21, 2025
Stephen Hawes, founder of Opulo and creator of the Lumen pick and place machine, shares insights from his journey in open-source hardware. He discusses the challenges faced in developing the Lumen, its unique dual-nozzle system, and how it compares to other assembly methods. Topics include the calibration process of machines using OpenPNP, innovative uses of vacuum sensors, and the importance of community engagement in open-source projects. Stephen also reflects on the evolution of PCB manufacturing and encourages exploring new DIY innovations.
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Quick takeaways
- Stephen Hawes created the Lumen PNP to address a market gap for accessible desktop pick and place machines for small batch productions.
- The open-source nature of Lumen PNP fosters community collaboration, allowing users to contribute enhancements and maintain control over their projects.
Deep dives
The Genesis of Lumen PNP
In 2020, Stephen Hawes identified a gap in the market for an accessible desktop pick and place machine, which stemmed from his personal experience with a problematic Kickstarter project. The initial idea of building a pick and place machine originated from a challenging phase where he had to assemble a hundred light-up bow ties manually, which was unfeasible for profit. This realization pushed him to create Lumen PNP as an open-source solution to streamline the assembly process. Despite his initial naivety about the complexity of developing such a machine, continuous learning and community support allowed him to successfully navigate the journey.
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