Quality Assurance

Böning Automationstechnologie GmbH & Co. KG is certified in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, fulfilling high quality standards. Our quality management reaches across and includes all in-house areas. We place a special focus on our internal production. Consistent quality of our products at a high level is our highest goal.
To satisfy these high standards, we have implemented various interlocking test sequences. This begins in the development phase, but also includes production support tests, final assembly, as well as system and burn-in tests.

Even with carefully calibrated production processes, occasional deviations for modules, such as inadequate solder joints or registration errors, cannot be fully eliminated. This is why every component is examined early in the production process and filtered out in “case of doubt.”

A system for the automatic optical inspection (AOI system) is an essential building block of our quality management. The component to be examined is fed into the AOI system where it is first photographed from different angles. Internally, twelve cameras, whose images are evaluated with extensive image processing software, are used. A module’s required properties are extracted from the circuit diagram data or are predefined by reference photographs. Every possible deviation from the target is detected and alerted. The optical inspection is usually applied three times to each module. Separate test runs are designated for SMD-mounting, THT-mounting (wired parts), as well as the bottom of the PCB. The AOI test system has a modular design, and it is capable of learning. The facility’s current technical state is secured by continuously enhancing the component library as well as upgrading the software periodically.

At Böning, we have an extensive EMV lab at our disposal, which enables us to attain the CE marking and pass the most important test of the classification societies during the development process. In addition to the testing procedures ESD, burst, surge and high frequency energizing current, our equipment also includes a so-called GTEM-cell for the irradiation of the test objects in the high frequency range as well as measuring of interference emissions.

A programmable climatic chamber is available for further environmental tests. The functionality of the test components can be examined under predefined heat/cold conditions. Most modules generally have an operating temperature, ranging from von -30°C to +70°C. Additionally, instruments for outdoor-use are tested in a daylight simulator, where they are exposed to high doses of UV light. The effects of powerful solar radiation can be made visible in a short amount of time.
 

To ensure the longevity and reliability of our products, a multitude of components and systems undergoes a long-term test after final assembly. The testing facilities built for this purpose simulate actual on-board use. Thus possible errors which could occur during installation or operation are recognized early and can be corrected in advance. This process ensures that only fully functional instruments leave production.

All safety-relevant devices by Böning are classified according to the policies of the ship classification societies. In addition to individual acceptances or type certificates for individual instruments or systems, there are also diverse certifications for various factory acceptance tests. The certificate of a component or system attests to the general conformity with the policies of the respective classification society. For this, extensive tests must be conducted in accredited laboratories. All safety related functionalities are monitored. Every component must meet the predefined requirements for its use. Today, we are in the position to offer integrated systems that are fully tested and approved.

We continually strive for a close cooperation with the classification societies. The safe operation of ships and reliability of our products are our top priority. Böning Automationstechnologie GmbH & Co. KG regularly collaborates with the following societies:

• American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), USA
• Bureau Veritas (BV), France
• DNV (Det Norske Veritas), Norway
• Lloyd’s Register of Shipping (LRS), United Kingdom
• Registro Italiano Navale (RINA), Italy
• Maritime Register of Shipping (RMRS), Russia

Testing and licensing of navigational and broadcasting equipment is governed by among others DNV. Here, Böning’s monitors which are used to display radar images or electronic sea charts are tested and approved.