Parts handling components

Abstract

According to the present invention, a component handling assembly is provided, which includes: a conveying system, which includes a track and a plurality of shuttles, wherein each of the shuttles can be driven along the track individually and independently of each other; and wherein each of the shuttles includes a picking head that can hold a component; a plurality of stations located near the track, the plurality of stations including: a picking station, at which a picking head on the shuttle can pick up a component from a pallet located in the picking station; at least one visual inspection station, which includes one or more cameras, at which a component that has been picked up from the picking station and transferred to the visual inspection station can be inspected; and at least one of a placement station and / or a belt station, at which a picking head on the shuttle can place a component on a pallet, and at which a picking head on the shuttle can place a component in a recess of a belt.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a component handling assembly, and in particular to a component handling assembly comprising the following parts: a plurality of shuttles, each of which can be moved independently of each other along a track, wherein each of the shuttles includes a pick-up head that can hold a component; a pick-up station, at which the pick-up head on the shuttle can pick up the component; a visual inspection station, in which the component held by the pick-up head on the shuttle can be inspected; and at least one of a placement station and / or a belt station, the placement station including at least one tray into which the component can be delivered by the pick-up head on the shuttle, and the belt station including a belt, which includes a recess into which the pick-up head of the shuttle can place the component. Background Art

[0002] In existing component handling assemblies, processing steps such as picking up components from a tray, placing components onto a tray, sorting rejected components from one tray to another, or placing components into pockets in a belt are performed at fixed locations within the assembly. As a result, delays occur due to the necessity to replace rejected equipment with good equipment in a tray; the necessity to replace a tray that supplies components for picking up at a picking station and has become empty; the necessity to replace a tray that is to receive components and has become full; and / or the necessity to replace a belt (which has pockets that can receive components) that has become full. Delays lead to reduced flow (continuity) within the assembly and, therefore, reduced throughput.

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages associated with existing component handling assemblies. Summary of the invention

[0004] These objects are achieved by the component handling assembly of the present invention, wherein non-limiting specific embodiments of the component handling assembly of the present invention will be clearly described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description of embodiments given by way of example and illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0006] Figure 1a shows a plan view of a component handling assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 1b It shows that Figure 1a a plan view of one of the shuttles used in the component handling assembly of;

[0007] Figure 2a A possible implementation of a vacuum system is provided. Figure 1aA perspective view of an embodiment of a component handling assembly; Figure 2b An enlarged view of the shuttle and its corresponding vacuum inlet is provided; Figure 2c shows a cross section of the vacuum ring 103 of the component handling assembly;

[0008] Figure 3a A perspective view of an embodiment of a component handling assembly including another possible implementation of a vacuum system is provided; Figure 3b Provided in Figure 3a A perspective view of a shuttle used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly; Figure 3c Provided in Figure 3a A plan view of a vacuum system used in the component handling assembly embodiment; and Figure 3d Provided in Figure 3a a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly;

[0009] Figure 4 Provided in Figure 3a A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a sliding member of a shuttle used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly;

[0010] Figure 5 Provided in Figure 3a A cross-sectional view of a portion of a plate member and a sliding member of a shuttle used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly;

[0011] Figure 6a A perspective view of a component handling assembly including yet another possible implementation of a vacuum system is provided; Figure 6b Provided in Figure 6a A side view of a portion of a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly and Figure 6a A perspective view of a shuttle used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly; Figure 6c Provided in Figure 6a A plan view of a vacuum system used in the component handling assembly embodiment; and Figure 6d Provided in Figure 6a A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly of Figure 6a A perspective view of a shuttle used in a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly; and Figure 6e Provided in Figure 6a A cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly.

[0012] Figure 7 Provided in Figure 6a A cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly Figure 6aA perspective view of a carriage for a shuttle used in an embodiment of the component handling assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Figure 1a A plan view of a component handling assembly 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0014] The component handling assembly 1 comprises a conveying system 2, which comprises a track 2a and a plurality of shuttles 2b. The conveying system is configured so that each of the shuttles 2b can be driven individually and independently of each other along the track 2a. Such a conveying system 2 is known in the art, and its implementation can take any suitable form: for example, US9533785 discloses a device for conveying objects, and the conveying system 2 of the present invention can be implemented in the same or similar manner as the device disclosed in US9533785. However, the only essential feature of the conveying system 2 is that it comprises some kind of track 2a and a plurality of shuttles 2b; and each of the shuttles 2b can be driven individually and independently of each other along the track 2a. Figure 1a , the direction of movement of the shuttles 2b on the track is shown by arrow 50; all shuttles 2b move in the same direction on the track 2a.

[0015] It will be appreciated that the track 2a may have any shape. Most preferably, the track is configured in the form of a ring (ie, follows a ring), such as Figure 1a As is the case in the track 2a of the illustrated component handling assembly 1. It will be appreciated that the track may, for example, be in a circular form (i.e., the track may be annular or circular) or in an elliptical form (i.e., elliptical); or in a rectangular form (i.e., rectangular) or in a square form (i.e., square), or may be in a form having two straight sections connected by two curved sections.

[0016] Importantly, in the present invention, each of the shuttles 2b includes at least one pick-up head 3b that can hold a component. In this embodiment, each of the shuttles 2b includes a pick-up head 3b that can hold a component. However, it should be understood that some or all of the shuttles 2b may include any number of pick-up heads (e.g., more than one pick-up head 3b); for example, the plurality of shuttles 2b may include a shuttle 2b that includes two pick-up heads. Each of the pick-up heads 3b on the shuttle 2b is configured to use a vacuum to hold a component; the vacuum is supplied to the pick-up head 3b by a vacuum system 100. As will be described in more detail below, the vacuum system 100 may have a variety of different implementations (vacuum systems 100a-100c) without departing from the scope of the present invention. However, it should be understood that each of the component handling assembly embodiments described in this specification has a component handling assembly having a vacuum system 100. Figure 1a and Figure 1bFeatures shown in .

[0017] As will be described in more detail below, the design of the shuttle 2b will vary depending on the implementation of the vacuum system 100. However, for each implementation of the vacuum system 100 (vacuum systems 100a-100c), each of the shuttles 2b included in each vacuum system implementation 100a-100c will include at least Figure 1b Features shown in . Figure 1b A plan view of a portion of a shuttle 2b that can be used in a component handling assembly 1 is shown; the shuttle 2b includes a pick-up head 3b, and the pick-up head 3b on each shuttle 2b is configured to use vacuum to hold the component. Each shuttle 2b includes a carriage 3a that cooperates with a track 2a and is configured to move along the track 2a; the pick-up head 3b is attached to the carriage 3a. As mentioned, the pick-up head 3b is configured to use vacuum to hold the component, and Figure 1b In the figure, the opening 7 in the pick-up head can be seen, through which opening 7 the vacuum is provided to the surface of the component.

[0018] The carriage 3a comprises magnets 4 which can be used to control the speed of movement of the shuttles 2b along the track 2a. The track 2a typically comprises electromagnets (positioned along the track 2a) which can be selectively activated to provide a magnetic field; when the electromagnets on the portion of the track occupied by the shuttles 2b are activated, the magnets on the track 2a repel the magnets 4 on the shuttles 2b to push the shuttles 2b away from the track 2a, also serving to move the "floating" shuttles 2b along the track 2a (similar to magnetic levitation). The carriage 3a also comprises encoders and / or sensors 5 which can be used to detect the position of the shuttles 2b on the track 2a, thereby enabling the position of each shuttle 2b relative to the other shuttles 2b on the track to be determined, and thus enabling the movement (i.e., speed) of the shuttles 2b to be controlled to avoid the shuttles 2b on the track 2a from colliding with each other (in the same manner as the device disclosed in US9533785 performs).

[0019] As mentioned above, the component handling assembly 1 includes a vacuum system 100. The vacuum system 100 is operable to supply vacuum to the pick-up head 3b of each shuttle 2b in the assembly; further, the vacuum system 100 is operable to supply vacuum to the pick-up head 3b of each shuttle 2b in the assembly as the shuttles 2b move around the track 2a. It should be understood that the vacuum system 100 can be implemented in a variety of different ways, thereby producing a variety of different assembly 100 embodiments. Three different vacuum systems 100a-100c will be described, producing corresponding three assembly embodiments.

[0020] Figure 2aA perspective view of an assembly 100 having a first exemplary implementation of a vacuum system 100 is provided; the assembly 100 includes a vacuum system 100a.

[0021] Figure 2a The vacuum system 100a of the assembly 100 shown includes: a vacuum generating device 101, which is operable to generate a vacuum; a vacuum ring 103, which defines a chamber 103a (such as Figure 2c It can be seen that Figure 2c 103 ), wherein chamber 103a is fluidly connected to a vacuum generating device so that the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device will generate a vacuum in chamber 103a of vacuum ring 103; a rotatable disk 105 (which is rotatable about a rotation axis) comprising a plurality of primary conduits 107, each of which is fluidly connected to chamber 103a of vacuum ring 103 and arranged to extend radially from vacuum ring 103. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of primary conduits 107 is integral with rotatable disk 105, while in another embodiment, each of the primary conduits 107 is defined by a corresponding conduit, and the conduit is attached to rotatable disk 105.

[0022] Figure 2c A cross section of the vacuum ring 103 is shown. Figure 2a and Figure 2c , it can be seen that in this embodiment, the vacuum ring 103 defines a single chamber 103a, and each of the plurality of primary conduits 107 is fluidly connected to the single chamber. Importantly, the rotatable disk 105 is rotatable, and throughout the rotation of the disk 105, each of the plurality of primary conduits 107 will remain continuously fluidly connected to the single chamber defined by the vacuum ring 103 (this ensures that the vacuum supply to each of the primary conduits 107 is not interrupted even when the rotatable disk 105 rotates about the rotation axis).

[0023] In one embodiment, the rotatable disk 105 is freely rotatable around the rotation axis; however, in another embodiment, the component handling assembly 1 further includes a drive motor that can drive the rotatable disk 105 to rotate around the rotation axis.

[0024] The vacuum system 100a also includes: a plurality of outlets 109 arranged at the periphery of the rotatable disk 105, and wherein each primary conduit 107 is fluidly connected to a corresponding outlet 109; and a plurality of secondary conduits 110, wherein each secondary conduit 110 is fluidly connected between a corresponding outlet 109 and a corresponding vacuum inlet 120 on a corresponding shuttle 2b. Most preferably, each of the secondary conduits 110 is formed of a flexible material, for example, each secondary conduit 110 may be defined by a corresponding rubber tube. In an embodiment, each of the secondary conduits 110 is formed of a material that is both elastic and flexible, so that each secondary conduit 110 can be stretched to increase the length, and can elastically return to its original length after the force stretching the secondary conduit is removed.

[0025] Figure 2b An enlarged view of a shuttle 2b used in an assembly 100 including a vacuum system 100a is provided. The shuttle 2b includes a vacuum inlet 120. The vacuum inlet 120 of each respective shuttle 2b is fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b. In this embodiment, the vacuum inlet 120 is fluidly connected to an intermediate conduit 125 via a chamber defined within an upper member 122 of the shuttle 2b; and wherein the intermediate conduit 125 is fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b. However, it should be understood that the vacuum inlet 120 of the shuttle 2b can be fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b using any other suitable means.

[0026] The vacuum system 100a is operable to provide vacuum to the pick-up head 3b on each shuttle 2b, so that each shuttle 2b can hold the corresponding component at the pick-up head 3b by vacuum: the vacuum generating device 101 is operated to generate vacuum; the generated vacuum will generate vacuum in the single chamber defined by the vacuum ring 103, which in turn generates vacuum in each of the primary conduits 107 in the rotatable disk 105 (because each of the primary conduits 107 is fluidically connected to the same single chamber defined by the vacuum ring 103, and because the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device 101 is continuous, the primary conduits 107 are continuously moved even when the rotatable disk 105 rotates). 7 will also be continuous); the vacuum in each of the primary ducts 107 in turn creates a vacuum at each of the multiple outlets 109 at the periphery of the rotatable disk 105; the vacuum created at each of the multiple outlets 109 in turn creates a vacuum in each of the multiple secondary ducts 110, which in turn creates a vacuum at each of the vacuum inlets 120 of each corresponding shuttle 2b; the vacuum at the vacuum inlet 120 of each corresponding shuttle 2b in turn creates a vacuum at the pick-up head 3b of the corresponding shuttle 2b, and the vacuum at the pick-up head 3b of the corresponding shuttle 2b is used to hold the parts on the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b.

[0027] As mentioned in one embodiment, the rotatable disk 105 is configured so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis; in such an embodiment, when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a, the secondary ducts 110 (each of which is connected to a corresponding outlet 109 at the periphery of the rotatable disk 105 at one end and is connected to a corresponding shuttle 2b (specifically connected to the vacuum inlet 120 of the shuttle 2b) at its opposite end) will pull the rotatable disk 105 (specifically will pull the corresponding outlet 109 at the periphery of the rotatable disk 105); the pulling force applied by the secondary ducts 110 will cause the rotatable disk 105 to rotate around the rotation axis (i.e., rotate freely), so that the rotatable disk 105. Since the rotatable disk 105 is configured to rotate freely, the rotatable disk 105 will not prevent the shuttle 2b from moving around the track 2a; specifically, the rotatable disk 105 will rotate freely around the rotation axis, in the same direction as the shuttle moves around the track 2a (i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise) and at a speed determined by the tension applied to the rotatable disk 105 by the secondary conduit 110. In this way, the vacuum system 100a can continue to provide vacuum to the pick-up head 3b of each shuttle 2b even when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a. In addition, the secondary conduit 110 will not become tangled when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a.

[0028] As mentioned in another embodiment, the component handling assembly 1 further comprises a drive motor that can drive the rotatable disk 105 to rotate around the rotation axis; in other words, in this embodiment, the movement of the rotatable disk 105 to rotate around the rotation axis is motorized (unlike the previously mentioned embodiment in which the rotatable disk 105 is configured to rotate freely around the rotation axis). In this embodiment, the drive motor is operated to rotate the rotatable disk 105 around the rotation axis in the same direction as the direction in which the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a (i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise), and at a speed that ensures that the secondary conduits 110 do not restrict (i.e., prevent) the shuttle 2b from moving on the track 2a (i.e., ensure that each corresponding secondary conduit 110 does not apply a force to the corresponding shuttle 2b in a direction opposite to the direction in which the shuttle moves around the track 2a); this can be achieved, for example, by rotating the rotatable disk 105 around the rotation axis at a speed that ensures that the plurality of outlets 109 at the periphery of the rotatable disk 105 are substantially synchronized with the moving shuttle 2b. In this way, even when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a, the vacuum system 100 can continue to provide vacuum to the pick-up head 3b of each shuttle 2b. In addition, when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a, the secondary conduit 110 will not become tangled.

[0029] Figure 3a A perspective view of an assembly 100 having a second exemplary implementation of a vacuum system 100 is provided; Figure 3a The assembly 100 includes a vacuum system 100b. Figure 3b A perspective view of a shuttle 2b used in the described part handling assembly embodiment including a vacuum system 100b is provided; Figure 3c A plan view of a portion of a vacuum system 100b is provided; and Figure 3d A perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system 100b and a perspective view of a shuttle 2b used in the described part handling assembly embodiment including the vacuum system 100b are provided.

[0030] refer to Figure 3a to Figure 3d , the vacuum system 100b includes a vacuum generating device 501, which is selectively operable to generate a vacuum; a vacuum chamber 303, which is fluidly connected to the vacuum generating device 501 (via a conduit 502), so that the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device 501 will generate a vacuum in the vacuum chamber 303; a plate member 304, which has one or more openings 305 defined therein, wherein the one or more openings 305 are each fluidly connected to the vacuum chamber 303. In this example, the plate member 304 has a plurality of openings 305 defined therein, wherein the plurality of openings 305 are arranged continuously parallel to the track 2a. (In another embodiment, instead of a plurality of openings 305 arranged continuously, the plate member 304 may have a single opening (i.e., a continuous channel) extending parallel to the track 2a).

[0031] For the sake of clarity, Figure 3a The vacuum system 100b is shown extending along only a portion of the track 2a (e.g., the plurality of openings 305 are arranged continuously along only a portion of the track 2a); however, it should be understood that the vacuum system 100b preferably extends along the entire length of the track 2a. In other words, preferably, the plate member 304 has openings 305 defined therein (each opening being fluidly connected to the vacuum chamber 303), and the openings 305 are positioned along the entire length of the track 2a (i.e., the plurality of openings 305 are arranged continuously around the entire ring of the track 2a; for example, preferably, the plate member 304 is shorter than the plate member 304). Figure 3a Preferably, the plate member 304 is large enough to extend along the entire length of the inside (or outside) of the loop around the track 2a so that multiple openings 305 are arranged continuously to form a loop inside the loop of the track parallel to the track 2a).

[0032] In an embodiment of a component handling assembly including a vacuum system 100b, each of the plurality of shuttles 2b includes a sliding member 307 disposed around a surface 308 (preferably a flat surface 308) of the plate member 304 and configured to slide on the surface 308 when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a. Figure 3dAs shown, the sliding member 307 of each shuttle 2b has a channel 309 defined therein, wherein the channel 309 has an inlet 310 and an outlet 311, wherein the outlet 311 is fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b (in this example, the outlet 311 is fluidly connected to the output nozzle 312, and the output nozzle 312 is in turn fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b via a conduit 313. However, it should be understood that the outlet 311 can be fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b using any means). The inlet 310 is aligned with at least one of the plurality of openings 305 defined in the plate member 304; importantly, when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, as the sliding member 307 slides along the surface 308 of the plate member 304, the inlet remains aligned with at least one of the plurality of openings 305 defined in the plate member 304, so that when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a, vacuum can be supplied to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b.

[0033] Figure 4 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sliding member 307 of the shuttle 2b is provided; as shown, the inlet 310 is large enough to extend over more than one of the openings 305 defined in the plate member 304; specifically, in this example, the inlet 310 extends over three consecutive openings 305 defined in the plate member 307 (however, the inlet 310 may be configured to extend over any number of consecutive openings 305 defined in the plate member 307, for example, the inlet 310 may be configured to extend over two consecutive openings 305 defined in the plate member 307). Most preferably, in embodiments where the plate member 304 has a plurality of openings 305 defined therein, the inlet 310 of the sliding member 307 is large enough to extend over at least two of the openings (e.g., the inlet is longer than, or has a length at least equal to, the total length of the diameters of two consecutive openings); advantageously, this will ensure that the vacuum supply to the pickup head 3b of the shuttle 2b is not interrupted as the shuttle 2b moves about the track 2a (if the inlet 310 of the sliding member 307 is sized to extend over only one opening, the vacuum supply to the pickup head 3b of the shuttle 2b would be interrupted as the sliding member 307 slides from a position where the inlet 310 is aligned over one opening defined in the plate member 304 to a position where the inlet 310 is aligned over the next consecutive opening defined in the plate member 304).

[0034] like Figure 3b and Figure 3d as well as Figure 4As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 3 , the sliding member 307 is semi-cylindrical, with a flat surface 307a of the sliding member 307 arranged to abut a surface 308 of the plate member 304; an inlet 310 is defined in the flat surface 307a of the sliding member 307. The abutment between the flat surface 307a of the sliding member 307 and the surface 308 of the plate member 304 ensures that little or no vacuum escapes at the interface between the sliding member and the plate member 304, and therefore ensures that the vacuum generated in the chamber 303 is transferred to the channel 309 in the sliding member 307.

[0035] Moreover, if Figure 3c and Figure 4 As can be seen in the figure, each sliding member 307 has curved cutouts 307b, 307c at opposite sides of the sliding member 307; the curved cutouts 307b, 307c are aligned with and arranged on opposite sides of the inlet 301, so that the curved cutouts 307b, 307c and the inlet 310 are all located on the same axis 315. Each of the curved cutouts 307b, 307c is aligned on the opening 305 defined in the plate member 304.

[0036] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the sliding member 307 and the plate member 304 is shown. As shown, the flat surface 307a of the sliding member 307 abuts the surface 308 of the plate member 304. The sliding member 307 also includes a step 318 adjacent to the flat surface 307a; the step 318 is at the intersection between the flat surface 307a abutting the surface 308 of the plate member 304 and a second surface 307d, the second surface 307d being parallel to the flat surface 307a but located on a plane higher than the plane of the flat surface 307a, so that there is a gap 319 between the second surface 307d and the surface 308 of the plate member 304. This gap 319 allows for a reduction in friction between the sliding member 307 and the plate member 304, so that the sliding member 307 can slide more easily on the plate member 304 when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a.

[0037] Figure 6a A perspective view of an assembly 100 having a third exemplary implementation of a vacuum system 100 is provided; Figure 6a The assembly 100 includes a vacuum system 100c; Figure 6b A perspective side view of a portion of a vacuum system 100c and a perspective view of a shuttle 2b used in the described part handling assembly embodiment including the vacuum system 100c are provided; Figure 6c A plan view of vacuum system 100c is provided; and Figure 6dprovides a cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system 100c and a perspective view of a shuttle 2b used in the described part handling assembly embodiment including the vacuum system 100c; and Figure 6e A cross-sectional view of a portion of a vacuum system 100c is provided. Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the vacuum system 100c and a perspective view of the carriage 615 of the shuttle 2b are provided.

[0038] refer to Figures 6a to 6e and Figure 7 , the vacuum system 100c includes: a vacuum generating device 501, which can be selectively operated to generate a vacuum; and a vacuum chamber 603, which is fluidically connected to the vacuum generating device 501 (via a conduit 502), so that the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device 501 will generate a vacuum in the vacuum chamber 603. Figure 6e and Figure 7 As can be seen most clearly in the figure, the vacuum chamber 603 is defined by a volume between an upper plate member 604 and opposing sealing members 605a, 605b protruding below the upper plate member 604; each of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b has a corresponding first end 606a attached to the upper plate member 604 and a second free end 606b.

[0039] For the sake of clarity, Figure 6a The vacuum system 100c is shown extending along only a portion of the track 2a; however, it should be understood that the vacuum system 100c preferably extends along the entire length of the track 2a. In other words, preferably, the upper plate member 604 and the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b are located above the track 2a and extend in a loop (preferably parallel to the track 2a) over the entire length of the track 2a (i.e., extend all the way around the track 2a).

[0040] The upper plate member 604 includes a plurality of vacuum inputs 624, each of which is fluidly connected to the vacuum chamber 603. Each vacuum input 624 is fluidly connected to the vacuum generating device 501 (via the conduit 502). In this embodiment, the plurality of inputs 624 are evenly distributed along the upper plate member 604, so that the vacuum supplied by the vacuum generator is substantially evenly distributed in the vacuum chamber 603.

[0041] The sealing members 605a, 605b are arranged so that the second free ends 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b abut against each other to seal the vacuum chamber 603. In this embodiment, the second free ends 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b are elastically biased toward abutting against each other to seal the vacuum chamber 603. The second free end 606b of each sealing member 605a, 605b is configured to have a circular cross-section (however, this is not an essential feature of the present invention, and the second free end 606b may have any suitable shape or configuration). The sealing members 605a, 605b include an elastic material so that the second free end 606b of each sealing member 605a, 605b may be elastically squeezed.

[0042] In this embodiment, the relative sealing members 605a, 605b each include a rubber material, which allows the second free end 606b to be easily elastically squeezed (however, it should be understood that the relative sealing members 605a, 605b may include any suitable material; most preferably, at least the second free end 606b of the relative sealing members 605a, 605b will include an elastic and flexible material). In addition, in this embodiment, the second free end 606b of each sealing member 605a, 605b is configured to have a circular cross-section; when a squeezing force is applied to the second free end 606b, the circular cross-section allows the second free end 606b to be squeezed more easily.

[0043] In this embodiment, the vacuum system 100c also includes a limiter member 607, which is arranged adjacent to the corresponding second free end portions 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b; the limiter member 607 limits the movement of the corresponding second free end portions 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b away from each other (however, it should be understood that the limiter member is an optional feature; for example, the limiter member may not be provided (where the elastic bias of the relative sealing members toward abutment with each other is used as the only means to limit the movement of the second free end portions 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b away from each other; or the wall of the upper plate member 604 may be used to limit the movement of the second free end portions 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b away from each other)).

[0044] As in Figure 6e and Figure 7As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 6 , each of the plurality of shuttles 2b includes a carriage 615 having an anchor portion 611 and a rod portion 610 having a first end 610a attached to the anchor portion 611 and a second free end 610b. The carriage 615 is arranged so that the rod portion 610 protrudes between the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b, so that the second free ends 610b of the rod portions 610 are located within the vacuum chamber 603, and so that the anchor portion 611 of the carriage is outside the vacuum chamber 603 below the second free ends 606b of the sealing members 605a, 605b.

[0045] The carriage 615 has a channel 625 defined therein that fluidly connects an inlet 620 and an outlet 621 ; the inlet 620 is defined in the second free end 610 b of the rod portion, and the outlet 621 is defined in the anchor portion 611 of the carriage 615 .

[0046] The outlet 621 is fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b. In this example, the outlet 621 is fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b through a conduit 627, however, it should be understood that the outlet 621 can be fluidly connected to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b using any suitable means.

[0047] Since the second free end 610b of the rod portion 610 is located in the vacuum chamber 603, the inlet 620 fluidly connects the channel 625 with the vacuum chamber 603. When the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, the second free end 610b of the rod portion 610 remains continuously located in the vacuum chamber 603; when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, the second free end 610b of the rod portion 610 will move through the vacuum chamber 603. Therefore, when the shuttle 2b moves around the track 2a, vacuum can be supplied to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b (specifically, the vacuum is transferred from the vacuum chamber 603 to the inlet 620 and transferred to the outlet 621 via the channel 625 in the carriage 615; and then the vacuum is transferred from the outlet 621 to the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle 2b via the conduit 627).

[0048] As mentioned, when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, the second free end 610b of the rod portion 610 remains continuously located in the vacuum chamber 603; when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, the second free end 610b of the rod portion 610 moves through the vacuum chamber 603; when the shuttle 2b moves along the track 2a, the rod portion 610 of the slide protruding between the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b squeezes the continuous portion of the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b. When the shuttle 2b occupies a position on the track 2a, the rod portion 610 of the slide 615 of the shuttle 2b (which protrudes between the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b) will squeeze the portions of the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b at the position; the portions of the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b at the position occupied by the rod portion 610 will abut against the opposite sides of the rod portion 610 to form a substantially fluid-tight abutment, thereby preventing the vacuum in the vacuum chamber 603 from escaping at the junction between the rod portion 610 and the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b.

[0049] In addition, since the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b are elastically biased toward abutting each other, the portions of the second free ends 606b of the opposing sealing members 605a, 605b on either side of the position occupied by the rod portion 610 of the slide 615 will abut each other to form a substantially fluid-tight abutment to seal the vacuum chamber 603.

[0050] Reference again Figure 1a , the component handling assembly 1 also includes a plurality of stations located near the track 2a. It should be understood that the stations can take any suitable form. In this example, the plurality of stations include a pick-up station 12, a plurality of visual inspection stations 13a-d, a placement station 14, a belt station 15, and a discard station 16. It should be understood that the assembly 1 may include any number of visual inspection stations, for example, the assembly 1 may include only a single visual inspection station. It should also be understood that the assembly may include only one of the placement station or the belt station.

[0051] The pick-up station 12 is a station where the pick-up head 3b on the shuttle 2b can pick up components from a tray located in the pick-up station 12. In this example, the pick-up station 12 includes two trays: a first tray and a second tray 12b; each tray includes components to be delivered to the discard station 16, the placement station 14 or the belt station 15. In one example, the shuttle 2b that arrives at the pick-up station 12 pauses at a position on the track 2a opposite the first tray, and the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b then picks up components from the first tray; this occurs for each shuttle 2b that arrives at the pick-up station 12 until all components in the first tray have been picked up (i.e., until the first tray is empty). When the first pallet is empty, the shuttle 2b that subsequently arrives at the picking station 12 pauses at a position on the track 2a opposite the second pallet 12b, and the picking head on the shuttle 2b then picks up components from the second pallet 12b; this occurs for each shuttle 2b that arrives at the picking station 12 until all components in the second pallet 12b have been picked up (i.e., until the second pallet 12b is empty). While picking up components from the second pallet 12b, the empty first pallet is replaced by another pallet filled with components; thus, when the second pallet 12b is empty, components are picked up again from the first pallet. Advantageously, the assembly 1 does not need to be interrupted when the pallet at the picking station 12 becomes empty.

[0052] A plurality of visual inspection stations 13a-d are used to inspect components for defects. Specifically, the plurality of visual inspection stations 13a-d include one or more cameras that capture images of components (e.g., images of component surfaces), and these images are then processed to detect whether there are defects—e.g., cracks on the surface of the component, damage to the pins, contact pads, or balls on the component, etc. Most preferably, each of the plurality of visual inspection stations 13a-d is configured to perform inspection of the component while the component is held by the component handling head 3b of the corresponding shuttle 2b. In this example, the assembly 1 includes a first 2D inspection station 13a, a 3D inspection station 13b, a 5S inspection station 13c, and a second 2D inspection station 13d.

[0053] At the first 2D inspection station 13a, an inspection of the component held on the pickup head of the shuttle 2b is performed by a camera providing a two-dimensional image. For example, a camera providing a two-dimensional image can be used to inspect the lead(s) of the component, the contact pad(s) of the component, and / or the 2-D ball(s) disposed on the surface of the component. Specifically, the lead(s), contact pad(s), and / or 2-D ball(s) disposed on the surface of the component can be inspected for defects such as breakage, bending, or cracks.

[0054] At the 3D inspection station 13b, an inspection of the components held on the pickup head of the shuttle 2b is performed using a camera providing a three-dimensional image. For example, the height of the components can be inspected at this station 13b; using said camera providing a three-dimensional image, the coplanarity of the leads of the components, and / or the coplanarity of the contact pads of the components, and / or the coplanarity of the balls of the components can be inspected for defects. For example, the defects may be that the contact pads of the components are not coplanar; and / or the leads (one or more) of the components are not coplanar; and / or the balls of the components are not coplanar; and / or the height of the components is insufficient due to, for example, depressions or damage on the surface of the components.

[0055] At the 5-S inspection station 13c, an optical device and an inspection module as described in the application WO2004079427 are provided. Specifically, the 5-S inspection station 13c is a five-sided inspection station, which is configured to provide images of at least five surfaces of a component simultaneously (by means of a camera and prisms and / or mirrors). Here, the five surfaces are inspected for defects such as cracks or damage.

[0056] If a defect in a component is detected while inspecting at any one of the first 2D inspection station 13a, the 3D inspection station 13b, and / or the 5-S inspection station 13c, the component is considered to be a defective component, otherwise it is considered to be a good component.

[0057] The second 2D inspection station 13d includes a camera for detecting the current position and current orientation of the component on the pick-up head of the shuttle 2b. The second 2D inspection station 13d preferably also includes a re-centering module that moves the component from its current position and current orientation on the pick-up head to a predetermined position and predetermined orientation on the pick-up head. It should be understood that the rotation of the component can be completed on the re-centering module, or by an embodiment integrated into the pick-up head itself actuated by an external motor. The predetermined position and orientation help the pick-up head to place the component into a tray at a placement station or a discard station, or into a pit of a belt at a belt station; when placing the component into a tray at a placement station or a discard station, or into a pit of a belt at a belt station, it reduces the risk of damaging (e.g., bending) the leads of the component and damaging the balls of the component.

[0058] As mentioned, the assembly 1 also comprises a deposit station 14 and a strip station 15 as well as a discard station 16 .

[0059] The reject station 16 includes a first reject tray 16a and a second reject tray 16b. If the component is determined to be defective (i.e., hereinafter referred to as a defective component) at the inspection station 13a-d, the shuttle 2b carrying the defective component will stop opposite the first reject tray 16a, and the handling head 3b on the shuttle 2b will place the defective component into the first reject tray 16a; the same steps will occur for each subsequent shuttle 2b that arrives at the reject station 16 and carries the defective component until the first reject tray 16a is full.

[0060] When the first product tray 16a is full of defective parts, the shuttle 2b carrying the defective parts (which arrives at the discarding station 16) will stop opposite the second product tray 16b, and the handling head 3b on the corresponding shuttle 2b will place the corresponding defective parts into the second product tray 16b. At the same time, the first product tray 16a full of defective parts is replaced by an empty first product tray, so that when the second product tray 16b is full of defective parts, the shuttle carrying the defective parts places these defective parts into the empty first product tray. Similarly, before the empty first product tray is full of defective parts, at the same time, the full second product tray is replaced by an empty second product tray. Advantageously, when the defective tray at the discarding station 16 becomes full of defective parts, the assembly 1 does not need to be interrupted.

[0061] If the component is determined to be non-defective (ie, referred to as a good component hereinafter) at the inspection station 13 a - d , the good component is placed into a tray in the placement station 14 or into a pocket of a tape in the tape station 15 .

[0062] In this example, the assembly 1 can selectively operate in a first operating mode or a second operating mode (the user can select the operating mode); this is because the assembly in this example has both a placement station 14 and a tape station 15. However, in another embodiment, the assembly has either a placement station or a tape station (not both), in which case there will be no option to operate in two modes, rather, if the assembly includes a placement station, the assembly will only operate in the first mode; and if the assembly includes a tape station, it will only operate in the second mode.

[0063] In all modes of operation, the vacuum system 100 will be operated to provide vacuum to the pick-up head of each shuttle 2b in the assembly.

[0064] In the first operation mode, the parts that have been picked up from the picking station 12 and have passed the visual inspection stations 13a-d and are determined to be good parts are finally placed by the picking head on the shuttle 2b in the tray of the placement station 14; in the second mode, the parts that have been picked up from the picking station 12 and have passed the visual inspection stations 13a-d and are determined to be good parts are finally placed by the picking head on the shuttle 2b into the pits of the belt in the belt station 15. Therefore, whether the good parts are finally placed by the picking head on the shuttle 2b into the tray in the placement station 14 or into the pits of the belt at the belt station 15 depends on the operation mode of the assembly 1 selected by the user.

[0065] The placement station 14 includes at least two trays, so that when one of the trays is full of good parts, the pick-up head 3b on the shuttle 2b can place the parts into the other tray located in the pick-up station, while replacing the full tray with another empty tray. In this example, the placement station 14 includes a first good tray 14a and a second good tray 14b, in which the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b can place the held parts.

[0066] If the component is determined to be non-defective (i.e., determined to be a good component) at the inspection station 13a-d, and the assembly is in its first operating mode, the shuttle 2b carrying the good component will stop opposite the first good product tray 14a, and the handling head 3b on the shuttle 2b will place the good component into the first good product tray 14a; the same steps will occur for each subsequent shuttle 2b that arrives at the placement station 14 and carries the good component.

[0067] When the first good product pallet 14a is full of good parts, the shuttle 2b (which arrives at the placement station 14) for transporting good parts will stop opposite the second good product pallet 14b, and the handling head 3b on the corresponding shuttle 2b will place the corresponding good parts into the second good product pallet 14b. At the same time, the first good product pallet 14a full of good parts is replaced by the empty first good product pallet, so that when the second good product pallet 14b is full of good parts, the shuttle 2b for transporting good parts places these good parts into the empty first good product pallet. Similarly, before the empty first good product pallet is full of good parts, at the same time, the second good product pallet is replaced by the empty second good product pallet when it is full of good parts. Advantageously, when the good product pallet at the placement station 14 is full of good parts, the assembly 1 does not need to be interrupted.

[0068] On the other hand, if the user has selected the assembly to operate in the second operating mode, the parts determined to be free of defects (i.e., determined to be good parts) at the inspection stations 13a-d will be placed by the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b that transports the parts into the pockets of the belt at the belt station 15 (rather than one of the trays 14a, 14b in the placement station 14). Specifically, the parts determined to be free of defects (i.e., determined to be good parts) at the inspection stations 13a-d will be placed directly into the pockets of the belt located at the belt station 15 by the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b.

[0069] In this example, the belt segment 15 includes a first front-belt module 15a, a first in-belt module 15b, a first sealing module 15c, and a first belt 30a, wherein the first belt 30a has a plurality of recesses, each of which can accommodate a component; and a second front-belt module 25a, a second in-belt module 25b, a second sealing module 25c, and a second belt 30b, wherein the second belt 30b has a plurality of recesses, each of which can accommodate a component.

[0070] In order for the pick-up head 3b on the shuttle 2b to be able to place the component it holds into the pocket of the tape 30a, 30b, the pocket must be in a predetermined position relative to the shuttle 2b (or at least within a predetermined range of positions relative to the shuttle 2b). The first pre-tape module 15a and the second pre-tape module 25a each include a camera configured to detect the position of the pocket in the tape into which the component is to be placed and to determine the position of the component on the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle based on image data provided by one or more of the inspection stations 13a-d. Using this data, the first pre-tape module 15a and the second pre-tape module 25a can each determine the relative position of the component on the shuttle relative to the pocket; if the relative positioning is not equal to the predetermined relative positioning required to enable the pick-up head to correctly place the component it holds into the pocket of the tape (or is not within a predetermined relative positioning range), the position of the pocket is adjusted (e.g., by a position adjustment module that moves the position of the tape, for example, by rolling the tape in either direction) so that the relative positioning is equal to the predetermined relative positioning (or within a predetermined relative positioning range). Once the tape has been moved so that the recesses are in said predetermined position relative to the position of the component on the pick-up head 3b of the shuttle, the pick-up head 3b can then place the component directly into the recess of the tape.

[0071] The first in-band module 15b and the second in-band module 25b each include a camera configured to detect the position of the component in the pit after the component has been placed in the pit by the pickup head 3b; before the pit is sealed, the component must be correctly (i.e., in a predetermined orientation) placed in the pit. In addition, the cameras of the first in-band module 15b and the second in-band module 25b are used to perform a final inspection of the component to determine whether the component has been damaged.

[0072] The first sealing module 15c and the second sealing module 25c each comprise means for sealing the recesses of their respective strips 30a, 30b after the components have been placed in the recesses.

[0073] If the component is determined to be non-defective (ie determined to be good) at the inspection stations 13a-d, and the assembly 1 is in its second operating mode, the shuttle 2b carrying the good component will stop opposite the first pre-belt module 15a.

[0074] The first pre-tape module 15a will detect the position of the well in the first tape 30a where the component will be placed (using its camera) and will determine the position of the component on the component handling head 3b of the shuttle based on the image data provided by one or more of the inspection stations 13a-d. Using this data, the first pre-tape module 15a will determine the relative position of the component on the shuttle with respect to the well in the first tape 30a into which it will be placed. If the relative positioning is not equal to the predetermined relative positioning (or is not within the predetermined relative positioning range), the first pre-tape module will adjust the position of the well (e.g., by rolling the tape in one direction or the other) so that the position of the well in the first tape 30a relative to the position of the component on the pick-up head 3b on the shuttle 2b is equal to the predetermined relative positioning (or is within the predetermined relative positioning range). The pick-up head 3b on the shuttle 2b then places the component directly into the well of the first tape 30a.

[0075] Then, after the component has been placed in the pit by the pick-up head 3b, the first in-band module 15b uses its camera to check the position of the component in the pit of the first belt 30a. In addition, the first in-band module 15b will perform a final inspection on the component to determine whether the component has been damaged. If the component is correctly placed in the pit of the first belt 30a and it is determined that the component is not damaged, the first sealing module 15c seals the pit.

[0076] The steps in the preceding paragraphs are performed for each good component until all the pockets in the first belt 30a are filled. Thereafter, the good components are filled into the pockets of the second belt 30b by performing the same steps, but using the second belt front module 25a, the second belt in-module 25b, and the second sealing module 25c. Of course, if the good components are to be filled into the pockets of the second belt 30b, the corresponding shuttle 2b that transports the good components will stop opposite the second belt front module 25a (rather than opposite the first belt front module).

[0077] Before all the pockets in the second belt 30b are filled with good parts, in the meantime, the first belt 30a, now full of good parts, is replaced by another new first belt with empty pockets. When all the pockets in the second belt 30b are full of good parts, the parts are then placed in the pockets of the new first belt; likewise, before all the pockets in the new first belt are filled with good parts, the second belt full of good parts is replaced by another new second belt with empty pockets. Advantageously, the assembly 1 does not need to be interrupted when all the pockets in the belt are full of good parts.

[0078] The assembly 1 also includes a tray transfer module 31 that can automatically transfer trays between the tray stacking station 35 and the picking station 12 and the placement station 14 and the discarding station 16. Thus, for example, when the first good tray 14a at the placement station becomes full of good parts, the tray transfer module will transfer the first good tray away from the placement station and will transfer a new empty first tray to the placement station to replace the full first tray. Most preferably, the tray transfer module 31 handles all full tray replacement or empty tray replacement described in this specification.

[0079] In this example, the tray stacking station 36 includes at least the following stacks: a first stack of trays 35a, which include trays filled with components and to be transferred to the picking station by the conveying module 31; a second stack of trays 35b, which include empty trays that the conveying module 31 has retrieved from the picking station 12; a third stack of trays 35c, which include trays filled with defective components retrieved from the discarding station 16 by the conveying module 31; and a fourth stack of trays 35d, which include components filled with good components that the conveying module 31 has retrieved from the placing station 14.

[0080] In the present invention, because the shuttles 2b can be driven individually and independently of each other along the track 2a, this allows for increased flexibility in operation, which results in improved flow and throughput when operating the assembly 1. For example, when the first pallet at the pick station 12 becomes empty (because the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b that has entered the placement station has already picked up all the components from the first pallet), then the next shuttle 2b that arrives at the pick station 12 can stop opposite the second pallet 12b, so that the pick-up head on the shuttle 2b can immediately pick up components from the second pallet 12b (without having to wait for the first pallet to be replaced by another pallet full of components, or without having to wait for the second pallet 12b (full of components) to be moved to the position previously occupied by the first pallet in the pick station 12). In other words, the location within the assembly where the picking of components occurs within the assembly is flexible. Similarly, the location of good parts placed into the assembly in the tray at the placement station is flexible; and the location of defective parts placed into the assembly in the tray at the scrap station is flexible; and the location of parts placed into the assembly in the pit of the belt at the belt station is flexible. This flexibility allows for increased flow in the assembly, thereby allowing increased throughput to be achieved.

[0081] Various modifications and variations of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention claimed should not be overly limited to such specific embodiments.

Claims

1. A component handling assembly, comprising: A conveyor system comprising: a track and a plurality of shuttles, wherein each of the shuttles can be driven along the track individually and independently of one another, and wherein each of the shuttles includes at least one pick-up head capable of holding a component; and A plurality of workstations located near the track, the plurality of workstations comprising: a pick-up station at which the pick-up head on the shuttle is capable of picking up a component from a tray located in the pick-up station; at least one vision inspection station including one or more cameras at which parts can be inspected; and at least one of a placement station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component onto the tray and / or a tape station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component into a pocket on the tape; and wherein the assembly further comprises a vacuum system configured to supply vacuum to the pick-up head of each respective shuttle as the shuttle moves around the track, and Wherein, the vacuum system comprises a vacuum generating device operable to generate a vacuum; a vacuum ring defining a chamber, wherein the chamber is fluidly connected to the vacuum generating device such that a vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device will create a vacuum in the chamber of the vacuum ring; a rotatable disk rotatable about a rotation axis, the rotatable disk comprising a plurality of primary conduits, each primary conduit being fluidly connected to the chamber of the vacuum ring and arranged to extend radially from the vacuum ring; a plurality of outlets arranged at a periphery of the rotatable disk, and wherein each primary conduit is fluidly connected to a respective outlet; A plurality of secondary conduits, wherein each secondary conduit is fluidly connected between a respective outlet and a respective shuttle such that vacuum can be supplied to the pick-up head of the respective shuttle.

2. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The track is in the form of a ring.

3. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The component handling assembly also includes a discard station, at which the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component determined to be defective onto a pallet, the discard station including at least two pallets, and the component determined to be defective can be placed in the at least two pallets by the pick-up head of the shuttle, wherein the position along the track at which the pick-up head of the shuttle can place the component in one of the pallets is different from the position along the track at which the pick-up head of the shuttle can place the component in another of the pallets.

4. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The picking station includes at least two pallets, and the picking head on the shuttle is capable of picking components from the at least two pallets, wherein the position along the track at which the picking head of the shuttle is capable of picking a component from one of the pallets is different from the position along the track at which the picking head of the shuttle is capable of picking a component for another of the pallets.

5. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The placement station comprises at least two trays in which the components held by the pick-up heads on the shuttle can be placed.

6. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The belt station includes at least two belts, each of the at least two belts including pockets into which components held by a pick-up head on a shuttle can be placed, wherein the position along the track at which the pick-up head of the shuttle can place a component into a pocket in one of the belts is different from the position along the track at which the pick-up head of the shuttle can place a component into a pocket in another of the belts.

7. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The at least one visual inspection station also includes a 2-D inspection station, which includes a camera for detecting a current position and a current orientation of the component on the pick-up head of the shuttle, and wherein the image from the 2-D inspection station is used by a re-centering module or by an embedded pick-up head rotation system to move the component from its current position and current orientation to a predetermined position and predetermined orientation on the component handling head.

8. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The belt station comprises: a pre-tape module configured to determine the position of the component on the pick-up head relative to the position of the pocket on the tape into which the component is to be placed, and to move the tape so that the pocket is in a position where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component it holds directly into the pocket on the tape; an in-band module configured to check whether the component having been placed in the recess of the band has a predetermined orientation in the recess; and A sealing module is configured to seal the recess into which the component has been placed.

9. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotatable disk is configured to freely rotate about the rotation axis.

10. The component handling assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The vacuum system also includes a drive motor capable of driving the rotatable disk to rotate about the rotation axis.

11. A component handling assembly comprising: A conveyor system comprising: a track and a plurality of shuttles, wherein each of the shuttles can be driven along the track individually and independently of one another, and wherein each of the shuttles includes at least one pick-up head capable of holding a component; and A plurality of workstations located near the track, the plurality of workstations comprising: a pick-up station at which the pick-up head on the shuttle is capable of picking up a component from a tray located in the pick-up station; at least one vision inspection station including one or more cameras at which parts can be inspected; and at least one of a placement station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component onto the tray and / or a tape station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component into a pocket on the tape; and wherein the assembly further comprises a vacuum system configured to supply vacuum to the pick-up head of each respective shuttle as the shuttle moves around the track, and Wherein, the vacuum system comprises a vacuum generating device operable to generate a vacuum; a vacuum chamber fluidly connected to the vacuum generating device such that the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device will create a vacuum in the vacuum chamber; A plate member has one or more openings defined therein, wherein the one or more openings are fluidly connected to the vacuum chamber.

12. The component handling assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of shuttles includes a sliding member arranged to abut a surface of the plate member and configured to slide on the surface as the shuttle moves along the track; wherein the sliding member has a channel defined therein, wherein the channel has an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet is fluidly connected to the pick-up head of the shuttle, and wherein the inlet is aligned with the one or more openings defined in the plate member so that vacuum can be supplied to the pick-up head of the shuttle as the shuttle moves around the track.

13. A component handling assembly comprising: A conveyor system comprising: a track and a plurality of shuttles, wherein each of the shuttles can be driven along the track individually and independently of one another, and wherein each of the shuttles includes at least one pick-up head capable of holding a component; and A plurality of workstations located near the track, the plurality of workstations comprising: a pick-up station at which the pick-up head on the shuttle is capable of picking up a component from a tray located in the pick-up station; at least one vision inspection station including one or more cameras at which parts can be inspected; and at least one of a placement station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component onto the tray and / or a tape station where the pick-up head on the shuttle can place the component into a pocket on the tape; and wherein the assembly further comprises a vacuum system configured to supply vacuum to the pick-up head of each respective shuttle as the shuttle moves around the track, and Wherein, the vacuum system comprises a vacuum generating device operable to generate a vacuum; a vacuum chamber fluidly connected to the vacuum generating device such that the vacuum generated by the vacuum generating device will create a vacuum in the vacuum chamber; Opposing sealing members are resiliently biased toward abutment with each other to seal the vacuum chamber.

14. The component handling assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of shuttles includes a carriage having a rod portion and an anchor portion, wherein the rod portion protrudes from the anchor portion between the opposing sealing members and into the vacuum chamber; the rod portion has a free end portion located in the vacuum chamber; and wherein the carriage has a channel defined therein, wherein the channel has an inlet defined in the free end portion and an outlet defined in the anchor portion, wherein the outlet is fluidly connected to the pick-up head of the shuttle so that vacuum can be supplied to the pick-up head of the shuttle as the shuttle moves around the track.

15. The component handling assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: The vacuum chamber is defined by an upper plate and the opposing sealing members, and wherein each of the opposing sealing members has a first end attached to the upper plate and a second free end; wherein the second free ends of the opposing sealing members abut each other to seal the vacuum chamber.

Images