HMGCC Challenge: Assurance of Printed Circuit Boards using Machine Vision (UK)

When national security organizations use electronic equipment in sensitive environments, they must be sure every element has been properly assured. In its latest challenge, HMGCC Co-Creation wants organizations to get involved in a five-month project, developing ways to robustly assure printed circuit boards (PCBs).

All organizations associated with national security undertake sensitive and classified daily tasks, and there is the invariable need to use electronic equipment. Sensitive equipment may be sourced from a range of suppliers varying from bespoke construction by HMGCC to less well-established third-party routes. With all routes, there is a requirement to conduct due diligence on the constituent parts of an electronic system ensuring functionality and security.

Project Scope

• Proposals should be focused on a proof of concept at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2-4, to be demonstrated towards the end of the five-month project, with a view to further development in future phases of work.
  • Desirable functions:
    • Method can image copper traces throughout multi-layered FR4 based PCBs.
    • Method works around possible shadowing or blocking effect from attached components.
    • Machine vision and machine learning processes to interpret images.
    • Direct and easy comparison of imaged PCB against original design files.
    • Easy to use and minimal training required.
    • Reasonably fast process (less than one day per PCB).
    • Equipment must be useable within a normal lab setting, i.e. not be prohibitively large or hazardous.
  • What they don’t want:
    • Horizon scanning.
    • Report of theoretical techniques.
    • Technology available more than 5 years from now.

Funding Information

• Budget per single organization, up to £80,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• This challenge is open to sole innovators, industry, academic and research organizations of all types and sizes. There is no requirement for security clearances.

Ineligibility Criteria

• Solution providers or direct collaboration from countries listed by the UK government under trade sanctions and or arms embargoes, are not eligible for HMGCC Co-Creation challenges.

Selection Criteria

• All proposals, regardless of the application route, will be assessed by the HMGCC Co-Creation team. Proposals will be scored 1–5 on the following criteria:
  • Scope: Does the proposal fit within the challenge scope, taking into consideration cost and benefit?
  • Innovation: Is the technical solution credible, will it create new knowledge and IP, or use existing IP?
  • Deliverables: Will the proposal deliver a full or partial solution, if a partial solution, are there collaborations identified?
  • Timescale: Will the proposal deliver a minimum viable product within the project duration?
  • Budget: Are the project finances within the competition scope?
  • Team: Are the organization delivery team credible in this technical area?

For more information, visit Connected Places Catapult.