A Novel Non-Contact Soldering Iron/Heat Gun for Electronics Fabrication

While contact-based soldering irons have been sufficient for the Navy"s needs for a number of years, the need to support new lead-free and older leaded solders is impossible with the current soldering irons without risk of cross-contamination. In addition, the combination of the soldering iron and heat gun into one device would reduce costs and operational constraints. Creare"s innovation is a novel Non-Contact Soldering Iron (NCSI) that can solder electrical connections and also function as a heat gun. The total weight of our battery-powered NCSI is approximately 3.4 lb and is similar to that of a common household flashlight. We have used low cost components such that the final parts cost of our NCSI will be approximately $230. In Phase I, we established the feasibility of our approach by completing critical soldering and heat shrinking operations with our proof-of-concept NCSI. During Phase II, we will develop a Functional Prototype for testing at Creare and Fieldable Prototypes for evaluation by the Navy and will execute our commercialization and transition plans. Creare will work closely with the Navy and the program offices during Phases II and III to ensure that we are responsive to the needs of DoD maintenance and flight-line efforts.