Vibrating conveyor and multi-row vibrating conveyor system having the same

Abstract

In a case where a force acts in a lateral direction on a groove having a linear conveying surface, the groove is inhibited from swinging in the lateral direction. A vibrating conveying device of the present invention is a vibrating conveying device that conveys a conveying object on a linear conveying surface by vibration, and includes a first mass body having the linear conveying surface, a second mass body that vibrates in a phase opposite to the first mass body, a drive elastic body that connects the first mass body and the second mass body, a base that has a support surface disposed above a central portion in a height direction of a vibrating body including the first mass body, the second mass body, and the drive elastic body, on an upstream side in a conveying direction and a downstream side in the conveying direction of the vibrating body, and a vibration-proof elastic body that connects the vibrating body and the support surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibratory conveying device capable of conveying a conveying object in a predetermined direction, and a multi-track vibratory conveying system having the vibratory conveying device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, vibratory conveying devices are known that can transport workpieces or other objects along a conveying surface to a predetermined transport destination via vibration. One such vibratory conveying device (see, for example, Patent Document 1) includes: an inertial mass fixed to the upper surface of an exciter arranged laterally; an exciter mounting member fixed to the lower surface of the exciter; and a conveying body connected to the exciter mounting member via a first connecting member erected at an angle. In this vibratory conveying device, the first connecting member undergoes flexural vibration due to displacement vibration caused by the exciter, and this flexural vibration is transmitted to the conveying body, thereby transporting the workpiece along the conveying surface in a predetermined direction. Here, the flexural vibration includes vibration components in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Furthermore, in this vibratory conveying device, a connecting member support plate is fixed at the midpoint of the first connecting member along its length, and the connecting member support plate is connected to a base via a second connecting member. In this way, by fixing the connecting component support plate to the part that becomes the middle part (the node of the vibration amplitude) in the length direction of the first connecting component, the vibration transmitted from the base to the mounting surface is greatly reduced.

[0003] Furthermore, as described in Patent Document 1, in order to further reduce vibrations transmitted from the base to the mounting surface, vibration-absorbing materials such as Al-based alloys with Al and Zn as the matrix, Ni-based alloys with Ni and Co as the matrix, and Fe-based alloys with Fe and Cr as the matrix are considered as the second connecting component. In this structure of Patent Document 1, a vibration-damping effect is achieved that significantly reduces horizontal vibrations transmitted from the base to the mounting surface.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-91928 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] As described above, the vibration in such a vibratory conveying device has vibration components in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Therefore, in order to further improve the vibration damping effect, it is desirable to reduce the vertical component in addition to reducing the horizontal component. For example, in Patent Document 1, it is considered to make the connecting member support plate of an elastomer and to make the thickness of the connecting member support plate thinner, thereby reducing the vertical component.

[0009] However, by thinning the support plate of the connecting component, the rigidity in the rotational direction centered on the connection point between the base and the second connecting component is weakened. Normally, the conveyor body that transports the object is in a position accessible to the operator at the upper end of the device. Therefore, as described above, if the support plate of the connecting component is thinned, for example, when the operator presses the side of the conveyor body laterally during operation, there is a problem that the conveyor body will swing laterally about the connection point between the base and the second connecting component as its rotation axis.

[0010] Such problems are particularly pronounced in multi-column vibratory conveyor systems where multiple vibratory conveying devices are arranged side-by-side in the width direction, with the multiple linear conveying surfaces being approximately parallel. Here, we cite the case of Patent Document 1, which describes a multi-column vibratory conveyor system comprising multiple vibratory bodies consisting of an inertial mass, an exciter mounting component, a conveyor body, and a first connecting component. In this multi-column vibratory conveyor system, it is not limited to the simultaneous driving of all vibratory bodies; there are cases where only a portion of the vibratory bodies are driven. Generally, vibratory bodies used in vibratory conveyor systems vibrate at or near their resonant frequency to obtain a large amplitude. As mentioned above, the vibration in such a vibratory conveyor system has both horizontal and vertical components; if both are not attenuated, the vibration damping effect transmitted from the base to the mounting surface cannot be fully utilized. Especially in multi-column vibratory conveyor systems, because their resonant frequencies are consistent, the following problem exists: the vibration component of a vibrating vibratory body is transmitted to other vibratory bodies that are stopped or need to be stopped, and due to resonance, it is amplified, causing unexpected conveying.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a vibrating conveying device and a multi-row vibrating conveying system having the vibrating conveying device, which can exert the anti-vibration effect of the vertical component, and can suppress the lateral swaying of the conveying component even when the force is applied to the conveying component from the lateral direction.

[0012] Methods for solving problems

[0013] That is, the vibration conveying device of the present invention is a vibration conveying device that conveys an object on a linear conveying surface by vibration, characterized in that it comprises: a first mass body having the linear conveying surface; a second mass body that vibrates with a phase opposite to that of the first mass body; a driving elastic body connecting the first mass body and the second mass body; a base having a support surface disposed above the center of the vibrating body in the height direction or the center of gravity of the vibrating body on an upstream side and a downstream side in the conveying direction relative to the vibrating body comprising the first mass body, the second mass body and the driving elastic body; and a vibration damping elastic body connecting the vibrating body to the support surface.

[0014] Therefore, in the vibratory conveying device of the present invention, the support surface supporting the vibrator is positioned above the center of the vibrator in the height direction or above the center of gravity of the vibrator. Thus, even when the damping elastomer of the vertical component is made flexible to maximize the attenuation rate, the distance between the point of application of the force acting laterally on the side portion of the conveying member and the fixed point (rotation axis) of the vibrator and the base is relatively small. Consequently, the torque acting laterally on the conveying member is reduced, suppressing lateral swaying of the conveying member. Therefore, in a multi-row vibratory conveying system with multiple vibratory conveying devices, collisions between the conveying member and surrounding components can be reduced, and when conveying members are arranged side-by-side, the gap between the conveying members can be reduced.

[0015] In the vibration conveying device of the present invention, the vibration damping elastomer has: a first arm portion mounted on the support surface to attenuate the vertical component of vibration; and a second arm portion disposed perpendicular to the first arm portion and mounted on the vibrating body.

[0016] Therefore, in the vibration conveying device of the present invention, the elastic coefficient in the parallel direction and the elastic coefficient in the vertical direction can be adjusted independently in the vibration damping elastomer used to further reduce the vibration transmitted from the base to the setting surface.

[0017] In the vibration conveying device of the present invention, the vibration damping elastomer is characterized by having: a first arm portion mounted on the support surface to attenuate the vertical component of vibration; a second arm portion disposed perpendicular to the first arm portion and mounted on the vibrating body; and a bending portion connecting the first arm portion and the second arm portion and bending into a convex shape.

[0018] Therefore, in the vibratory conveying device of the present invention, the elastic coefficient in the parallel direction and the elastic coefficient in the vertical direction can be independently adjusted in the vibration damping elastomer used to further reduce vibration transmitted from the base to the mounting surface. Furthermore, when a force acts laterally on the side portion of the conveying member, the lateral swaying of the conveying member can be effectively suppressed.

[0019] In the vibration conveying device of the present invention, the first fixing part of the vibrating body and the vibration damping elastomer is disposed below the support surface and the second fixing part of the vibration damping elastomer.

[0020] Therefore, in the vibration conveying device of the present invention, since the vibrating body is supported in a manner that is suspended relative to the base, the vibration of the vibrating body is stable even when the vibrating body is large.

[0021] In the multi-column vibrating conveyor system of the present invention, the feature is that it has a plurality of vibrating conveying devices as described in any of the above inventions, the plurality of linear conveying surfaces being arranged substantially in parallel.

[0022] Therefore, in the multi-column vibrating conveyor system of the present invention, even when a force is applied laterally to the conveying component of the vibrating conveyor, the lateral swaying of the conveying component can be suppressed. Thus, damage due to collision with adjacent conveying components can be prevented.

[0023] Invention Effects

[0024] According to the present invention, even when a force is applied laterally to a conveying member having a conveying surface, it is possible to suppress the lateral swaying of the conveying member. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a top view of a multi-row vibrating conveyor system having the vibrating conveyor device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of the vibratory conveyor.

[0027] Figure 3 Is Figure 2 A diagram showing the connecting plate near the front of the paper after it has been removed.

[0028] Figure 4 It means Figure 2 A diagram of the mounting section of the trough and trough support platform of the vibrating conveyor.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a side view of the vibration conveying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a side view of the vibration conveying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a side view showing a modified example of the vibration conveying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a vibratory conveying device according to a reference example of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a side view of the vibrating conveyor.

[0034] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of a vibrating conveyor.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the vibratory conveyor with the cover components removed.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a side view of the vibratory conveyor with the cover components removed.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a flexible substrate before it is bent in three dimensions.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a flexible substrate that has been bent three-dimensionally.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a diagram representing the first transition section.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a diagram representing the second transition section.

[0041] Figure 17 This is a diagram representing the third transition section. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] (First Implementation)

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the multi-column vibrating conveyor system of this embodiment has multiple vibrating conveying devices 1. The multiple vibrating conveying devices 1 are arranged side by side, and the multiple grooves 8 (linear conveying surfaces 8t) are arranged substantially parallel to each other. The vibrating conveying device 1 is, for example, a linear feeder that uses vibration to move workpieces such as electronic components on a straight linear conveying surface 8t and convey them to a predetermined conveying destination.

[0045] Furthermore, the upper rear surface of the linear conveying surface 8t is kept in a state where workpieces are always accumulated through a funnel or the like (illustration omitted). Therefore, when the vibrating conveyor 1 starts conveying, it can convey the workpiece to the end of the linear conveying surface 8t and supply it to the predetermined conveying destination.

[0046] The following description focuses on one vibrating conveyor device 1, but multiple vibrating conveyor devices 1 have roughly the same structure. Figure 2 This is a side view of the vibrating conveyor. Figure 3 From Figure 2 The diagram shows the connecting plate near the front of the paper removed from the vibrating conveyor.

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the vibrating conveyor 1 has: a base 2 fixed on the ground; a movable part 5 disposed above the base 2; a fixed part 6 disposed above the movable part 5; and a groove 8 having a linear conveying surface 8t for conveying workpieces above the fixed part 6.

[0048] The base 2 has: a horizontal base portion 2a extending along a linear conveying surface 8t; and two vertical base portions 2b respectively mounted on the upstream end and downstream end of the horizontal base portion 2a in the conveying direction. The horizontal base portion 2a is a component extending in the horizontal direction, and in contrast, the two vertical base portions 2b are components extending in the vertical direction.

[0049] Two vertical base sections 2b are connected at their lower ends to the upstream and downstream ends of the horizontal base section 2a in the conveying direction, respectively, and their upper ends are positioned near the lower surface of the groove 8. Each of the two vertical base sections 2b has a flat support surface 2c disposed at its upper end. The support surface 2c is where the anti-vibration spring 50 is mounted, and it is inclined such that the upstream end in the conveying direction is positioned below the downstream end in the conveying direction.

[0050] The movable part 5 and the fixed part 6 are connected at two locations in the front-rear direction by using a pair of drive springs 10 of leaf springs. The lower end of the pair of drive springs 10 is fixed to the front-rear end face of the movable part 5 by fastening bolts 10a, and the upper end is fixed to the front-rear end face of the fixed part 6 by fastening bolts 10b.

[0051] The drive spring 10 is a flat spring (leaf spring). A piezoelectric element 11, which functions as an excitation source, is attached to the drive spring 10. By applying a charge to the piezoelectric element 11, the drive spring 10 vibrates due to elastic deformation. The movable part 5 and the fixed part 6 vibrate in opposite phases.

[0052] In this embodiment, the drive spring 10 is installed in its normal, non-elastically deformed position, which is tilted relative to the vertical direction. A pair of drive springs 10 are fixed to the movable part 5 and the fixed part 6 in a manner that is approximately parallel to each other. The spring constant of the drive spring 10 and the piezoelectric element 11 is appropriately selected based on the conditions of any resonant frequency determined by factors such as the weight and size of the component to be transported and the weight of the slot 8.

[0053] In addition, a drive unit (not shown) is provided inside the fixed part 6 to vibrate a pair of drive springs 10. The drive unit has a drive source such as a piezoelectric element 11, which enables the movable part 5 to vibrate relative to the fixed part 6.

[0054] The groove 8 is connected to the groove support platform 12 disposed above the fixed part 6. The groove support platform 12 is connected to the movable part 5 via the connecting plate 16 and vibrates synchronously with the movable part 5. The connecting plate 16 is connected to the groove support platform 12 via fastening bolt 16a, and to the movable part 5 via connecting bolt 16b.

[0055] like Figure 4As shown, a locking portion 30 (hook portion) is formed on the lower surface of the front end side portion of the groove 8. The locking portion 30 has: a protrusion 31 that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the groove 8; and an end protrusion 32 that extends upstream from the end of the protrusion 31 in the conveying direction.

[0056] A locking recess 12a is formed at the front end of the slot support 12 to lock the end protrusion 32 of the locking portion 30 of the slot 8. Therefore, by locking the end protrusion 32 of the locking portion 30 into the locking recess 12a of the slot support 12, the front end portion of the slot 8 is fixed to the front end of the slot support 12. With the locking portion 30 locked to the front end of the slot support 12, the rear end of the slot 8 is fixed to the rear end of the slot support 12 by bolts 8a.

[0057] A downwardly protruding support portion 33 is formed at the rear end of the lower surface of the groove 8, and a downwardly protruding support portion 34 is formed on the upstream side of the locking portion 30 in the conveying direction. When the groove 8 is installed on the groove support table 12, the lower surfaces of the support portions 33 and 34 are in contact with the upper surface of the groove support table 12.

[0058] A hard rubber 35 is disposed between the lower surface of the groove 8 and the upper surface of the groove support 12. The hard rubber 35 is disposed in the approximately central portion between the support portion 33 and the support portion 34. The hard rubber 35 is a plate-shaped component with a generally rectangular shape and having a width approximately the same as that of the groove 8. The predetermined thickness of the hard rubber 35 is approximately the same as the protrusion of the support portion 33 and the support portion 34.

[0059] With the groove 8 installed on the groove support 12, gaps are formed between the support part 33 and the hard rubber 35, and between the support part 34 and the hard rubber 35. Therefore, the lower surface of the groove 8 is supported relative to the upper surface of the groove support 12 at three locations: the support part 33, the hard rubber 35, and the support part 34.

[0060] In this embodiment, the movable part 5, the connecting plate 16, the groove support platform 12, and the groove 8 are the first mass body of the present invention, the fixed part 6 is the second mass body of the present invention, the drive spring 10 is the drive elastic body of the present invention, and the anti-vibration spring 50 is the anti-vibration elastic body of the present invention. Therefore, the vibrating body T is constructed by including the movable part 5, the connecting plate 16, the groove support platform 12, the groove 8, the fixed part 6, and the drive spring 10.

[0061] The vibrating body T is supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50, which act as leaf springs, on the support surfaces 2c of the vertical portions 2b of the two bases. Each anti-vibration spring 50 has: a first arm 51 mounted on the support surface 2c to attenuate the vertical component of the vibration; and a second arm 52 disposed perpendicularly to the first arm 51. The first arm 51 and the second arm 52 are integrally formed, and the anti-vibration spring 50 is a flat, L-shaped elastic component (L-shaped spring).

[0062] The anti-vibration spring 50 is fixed to the support surface 2c by a fastening bolt 51a at its first arm 51, and fixed to the drive spring 10 by a fastening bolt 52a at its second arm 52. Here, a pair of anti-vibration springs 50 are mounted on the support surface 2c in a parallel arrangement of their first arms 51, and are mounted on a pair of drive springs 10 in a parallel arrangement of their second arms 52.

[0063] Furthermore, the first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged perpendicularly to the drive spring 10, and the second arm 52 is arranged parallel to the drive spring 10. Therefore, the first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is parallel to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10, and the second arm 52 is arranged perpendicular to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10. In this embodiment, the direction of the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10 is defined by the mounting angle of the drive spring 10. "The first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged parallel to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10" means that the first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged along a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10. "The second arm 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged perpendicular to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10" means that the second arm 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged along a direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10 (relative to the normal direction of the elastic main axis).

[0064] In this embodiment, a protrusion 53 is provided in the section of each of the pair of drive springs 10 where there is no displacement in the horizontal or vertical direction, and the end portion of the second arm portion 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is fixed to the protrusion 53. Furthermore, the drive spring 10 has a structure in which both ends (upper end and lower end) are fixed to the fixed portion 6 and the movable portion 5 respectively (both ends are fixedly supported), therefore, the section is the central portion in the length direction of the drive spring 10.

[0065] The segment of the drive spring 10 can be understood as a point. The area in the drive spring 10 where the protrusion 53 is provided is a predetermined area containing the segment of the drive spring 10 (the segment and the area near the segment). An internal threaded hole is provided in the protrusion 53 (not shown).

[0066] The second arm 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 has a bolt insertion hole (not shown) that communicates with the internal threaded hole of the protrusion 53. By screwing the bolt 52a inserted into the bolt insertion hole into the internal threaded hole of the protrusion 53, the second arm 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 can be fixed to the protrusion 53 of the drive spring 10.

[0067] The support surface 2c, located at the upper end of the vertical portion 2b of the two bases, is positioned above the center portion in the height direction of the vibrating body T. Therefore, when a force acts laterally on the side portion of the groove 8, Figure 2 In this embodiment, the vibrating body T is intended to oscillate around a straight line passing through the two support surfaces 2c as its rotation axis. However, compared to the case where the support surfaces 2c are positioned below the center of the vibrating body T in the height direction, the distance between the point of force application and the rotation axis is smaller, resulting in a smaller torque acting laterally on the groove 8. In this embodiment, the height of the vibrating body T is the vertical distance between the upper end of the groove 8 and the lower end of the movable part 5.

[0068] With the vibrating body T supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50 on the support surface 2c of the vertical portion 2b of the two bases, the second arm portion 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 extends downward from the end of the first arm portion 51. The first fixing portion A1 of the vibrating body T and the second arm portion 52 is disposed below the support surface 2c and the second fixing portion A2 of the first arm portion 51.

[0069] Therefore, the two support surfaces 2c are respectively positioned on the upstream and downstream sides of the conveying direction relative to the vibrator T, and the vibrator T is supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50 in a manner that suspends it relative to the support surfaces 2c of the two vertical portions 2b of the base. Furthermore, in order to prevent lateral forces from acting on the side portion below the groove 8 of the vibrator T, a cover component can be installed on the side of the base 2 to cover the side portion below the groove 8 of the vibrator T.

[0070] The main function of the vibratory conveyor 1 will be explained. With the vibratory conveyor 1 fixed to the ground, a workpiece is placed on the upper surface of a groove 8 that is set to be approximately horizontal. In this state, the movable part 5 and the fixed part 6 vibrate by activating the drive spring 10. Here, the drive spring 10, which connects the movable part 5 and the fixed part 6, is tilted in the conveying direction, thus vibrating with a component in the conveying direction and a vertical component perpendicular to the conveying direction, depending on the tilt angle. This vibration is transmitted to the groove 8 via the connecting plate 16, and from the groove 8 to the workpiece, thereby conveying the workpiece on the upper surface of the groove 8.

[0071] At this time, the center of gravity of the fixed part 6 is located approximately near the center of the fixed part 6. Furthermore, the center of gravity obtained by combining the center of gravity of the movable part 5, the center of gravity of the connecting plate 16 which vibrates as an integral part of the movable part 5, and the center of gravity of the groove 8, is located near the center of gravity of the fixed part 6 because the movable part 5 and the groove 8 are integrated across the fixed part 6. Therefore, the vibrations of the two parts cancel each other out, and combined with the action of the anti-vibration spring 10, effectively attenuates the vibrations transmitted to the base 2 and the ground.

[0072] In the multi-row vibrating conveyor system of this embodiment, the grooves 8 of multiple vibrating conveying devices 1 are arranged side by side. Therefore, the width of the grooves 8 is very small, making it difficult to fix multiple parts between the front end and the rear end of the grooves 8 to the groove support platform 12 from above using bolts. Therefore, the front end of the grooves 8 is fixed to the groove support platform 12 using the locking part 30.

[0073] For example, when the front end portion of the groove 8 is fixed to the groove support 12 from below the front end using bolts, a threaded portion needs to be formed in the groove 8. As a result, the thickness of the groove 8 increases, leading to an increase in the weight of the groove 8 and a decrease in its conveying capacity. In contrast, in this embodiment, the front end portion of the groove 8 is fixed to the groove support 12 by the locking portion 30, so it is not necessary to form a threaded portion in the groove 8.

[0074] Furthermore, when the groove 8 is fixed to the groove support platform 12 at both the front and rear ends, the distance between the fixed parts increases, and the portion of the groove 8 between the fixed parts is not supported by the groove support platform 12. Therefore, the resonant frequency of the groove 8 between the fixed parts decreases, resulting in uneven vibration distribution. In contrast, in this embodiment, the groove 8 is fixed to the groove support platform 12 at both the front and rear ends, and the portion of the groove 8 between the front and rear ends is fixed to the groove support platform 12 by a rigid rubber 35. Therefore, there is no problem of reduced conveying capacity or uneven vibration distribution. In addition, in this embodiment, when one rigid rubber 35 is placed between the front and rear ends of the groove 8, the lower surface of the groove 8 is supported by the groove support platform 12 at three locations. However, when two rigid rubber 35s are placed between the front and rear ends of the groove 8, the lower surface of the groove 8 is supported by the groove support platform 12 at four locations. In either case, there is no problem of uneven vibration distribution.

[0075] As described above, the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment is a vibration conveying device that conveys a conveying object on a linear conveying surface 8t by vibration. It includes: a first mass body (movable part 5, connecting plate 16, groove support platform 12, and groove 8) having a linear conveying surface 8t; a second mass body (fixed part 6) that vibrates in a phase opposite to that of the first mass body; a driving elastic body (a pair of driving springs 10) that connects the first mass body and the second mass body; a base 2 that has a support surface 2c disposed above the center of the vibrating body T in the height direction relative to the vibrating body T, which includes the first mass body, the second mass body, and the driving elastic body, on the upstream side and the downstream side in the conveying direction; and a vibration damping elastic body (a pair of vibration damping springs 50) that connects the vibrating body T to the support surface 2c.

[0076] Therefore, in the vibratory conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the support surface 2c of the vibratory body T (the second fixing point A2 between the vibratory body T and the base 2) is positioned above the center of the vibratory body T in the height direction. Thus, even when the damping spring 50 of the vertical component is made flexible to maximize the attenuation rate, the distance between the point of application of the force acting laterally on the side of the groove 8 and the fixing point (rotation axis) of the vibratory body T and the base 2 is relatively small. Consequently, the torque acting laterally on the groove 8 is reduced, suppressing the lateral swaying of the groove 8. Therefore, in a multi-row vibratory conveying system having multiple vibratory conveying devices 1, collisions between the groove 8 and surrounding components can be reduced, and when the grooves 8 are arranged side-by-side, the gap size between the grooves 8 can be reduced.

[0077] In the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the anti-vibration spring 50 has: a first arm 51, which is mounted on the support surface 2c to attenuate the vibration of the vertical component; and a second arm 52, which is arranged perpendicularly to the first arm 51 and mounted on the vibrating body T.

[0078] Therefore, in the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the anti-vibration spring 50, which is used to further reduce the vibration transmitted from the base 2 to the setting surface, can independently adjust the elastic coefficient in the parallel direction and the elastic coefficient in the vertical direction.

[0079] In the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the vibrating body T and the first fixing part A1 of the anti-vibration spring 50 are arranged below the support surface 2c and the second fixing part A2 of the anti-vibration spring 50.

[0080] Therefore, in the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the vibrating body T is supported in a manner that is suspended relative to the vertical portion 2b of the base 2, so that even when the vibrating body T is large, the vibration of the vibrating body T is stable.

[0081] The multi-column vibrating conveyor system of this embodiment has multiple vibrating conveying devices 1 and multiple linear conveying surfaces 8t arranged in approximately parallel.

[0082] Therefore, in the multi-row vibrating conveyor system of this embodiment, even when the force acts laterally on the groove 8 of the vibrating conveyor 1, the swaying of the groove 8 in the lateral direction can be suppressed, thus preventing the component from being damaged by collision with adjacent grooves 8.

[0083] (Second Implementation)

[0084] The difference between the vibration conveying device 101 of this embodiment and the vibration conveying device 1 of the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the first fixing part A1 of the vibrating body T and the second arm 52 of the anti-vibration spring 50 is disposed below the support surface 2c and the second fixing part A2 of the first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50. In contrast, in this embodiment, the first fixing part A1 of the vibrating body T and the second arm 152 of the anti-vibration spring 150 is disposed above the support surface 2c and the second fixing part A2 of the first arm 151 of the anti-vibration spring 150. Furthermore, in the vibration conveying device 101 of this embodiment, the description of structures identical to those in the vibration conveying device 1 of the first embodiment is omitted.

[0085] like Figure 5 As shown, the vibrating conveyor 101 includes: a base 2 fixed to the ground; a movable part 5 disposed above the base 2; a fixed part 6 disposed above the movable part 5; and a groove 8 having a linear conveying surface 8t for conveying workpieces above the fixed part 6.

[0086] In this embodiment, the movable part 5, the connecting plate 16, the groove support platform 12, and the groove 8 are the first mass body of the present invention, the fixed part 6 is the second mass body of the present invention, the drive spring 10 is the drive elastic body of the present invention, and the anti-vibration spring 150 is the anti-vibration elastic body of the present invention. Therefore, the vibrating body T is constructed by including the movable part 5, the connecting plate 16, the groove support platform 12, the groove 8, the fixed part 6, and the drive spring 10.

[0087] The vibrating body T is supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 150, which act as leaf springs, on the support surfaces 2c of the vertical portions 2b of the two bases. Each anti-vibration spring 150 has a first arm 151 and a second arm 152 arranged perpendicularly to the first arm 151. The first arm 151 and the second arm 152 are formed as one piece, and the anti-vibration spring 150 is a flat L-shaped elastic component (L-shaped spring).

[0088] The vibration damping spring 150 is fixed to the support surface 2c by a fastening bolt 51a at its first arm 151 and to the fixing part 6 by a fastening bolt 10b at its second arm 152. A pair of vibration damping springs 150 are mounted on the support surface 2c in a parallel arrangement of their first arms 151 and on the fixing part 6 in a parallel arrangement of their second arms 152.

[0089] With the vibrating body T supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 150 on the support surface 2c of the vertical portion 2b of the two bases, the second arm 152 of the anti-vibration spring 150 extends upward from the end of the first arm 151. Therefore, the first fixing part A1 of the vibrating body T and the second arm 152 of the anti-vibration spring 150 is positioned above the support surface 2c and the second fixing part A2 of the first arm 151 of the anti-vibration spring 150.

[0090] The support surface 2c, which is located at the upper end of the vertical part 2b of the two bases, is positioned above the center of the vibrating body T in the height direction, relative to the upstream side and downstream side of the vibrating body T in the conveying direction.

[0091] As described above, the same effects as those of the vibration conveying device 1 in this embodiment can be obtained in the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment.

[0092] (Third Implementation)

[0093] The difference between the vibration conveying device 201 of this embodiment and the vibration conveying device 1 of the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the vibrating body T has a first mass, a second mass, and a driving elastic body, while in this embodiment, the vibrating body T has a first mass, a second mass, and a driving elastic body, and has a third mass connected to the second mass via the driving elastic body. Furthermore, in the vibration conveying device 201 of this embodiment, descriptions of structures identical to those in the vibration conveying device 1 of the first embodiment are omitted.

[0094] like Figure 6 As shown, the vibrating conveyor 201 has: a base 2 fixed on the ground, a main block 213a and a secondary block 213b disposed above the base 2, a main block 212a and a secondary block 212b disposed above the base 2, and a groove 8 having a linear conveying surface 8t for conveying workpieces above the groove.

[0095] The main block 212a and the secondary block 212b are fixed together as a whole, and the main block 213a and the secondary block 213b are fixed together as a whole.

[0096] The slot support platform 12 and the main block 212a, which are connected to the slot 8, are connected at two points in the front-rear direction by using a pair of drive springs 10 of leaf springs. The pair of drive springs 10 are fixed at the lower end to the front-rear end face of the main block 212a by fastening bolts 10a, and at the upper end to the front-rear end face of the slot support platform 12 by fastening bolts 10b.

[0097] Sub-blocks 212b and 213b are connected at two locations in the front-rear direction using a pair of drive springs 210 of leaf springs. The pair of drive springs 210 are fixed at their lower ends to the front-rear end face of sub-block 213b by fastening bolts 210a, and at their upper ends to the front-rear end face of sub-block 212b by fastening bolts 210b.

[0098] Drive spring 10 and drive spring 210 are flat springs (leaf springs). Piezoelectric elements (not shown) that function as excitation sources are attached to drive spring 10 and drive spring 210. By applying a charge to the piezoelectric elements, drive spring 10 and drive spring 210 elastically deform and generate vibration.

[0099] In this embodiment, the groove 8 and the groove support platform 12 are the first mass bodies of the present invention, the main block 212a and the auxiliary block 212b are the second mass bodies of the present invention, the drive spring 10 is the drive elastic body of the present invention, and the anti-vibration spring 50 is the anti-vibration elastic body of the present invention.

[0100] The vibration conveying device 201 of this embodiment has a main block 213a and a secondary block 213b (third mass body) connected to the second mass body of the present invention via a pair of drive springs 210. Therefore, the vibrating body T is constructed by including a groove 8, a groove support 12, a main block 212a, a secondary block 212b, a main block 213a, a secondary block 213b, drive springs 10 and 210.

[0101] Similar to the first embodiment, the vibrating body T is supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50, which are leaf springs, on the support surfaces 2c of the vertical portions 2b of the two bases.

[0102] The support surface 2c, which is located at the upper end of the vertical part 2b of the two bases, is positioned above the center of the vibrating body T in the height direction, relative to the upstream side and downstream side of the vibrating body T in the conveying direction.

[0103] With the vibrating body T supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50 on the support surface 2c of the vertical part 2b of the two bases, the first fixing part A1 of the second arm 52 of the vibrating body T and the anti-vibration spring 50 is arranged below the support surface 2c and the second fixing part A2 of the first arm 51 of the anti-vibration spring 50.

[0104] Therefore, the two support surfaces 2c are respectively positioned on the upstream side and the downstream side of the conveying direction relative to the vibrating body T, and the vibrating body T is supported by a pair of anti-vibration springs 50 in a manner that suspends it relative to the support surfaces 2c of the two vertical parts 2b of the base.

[0105] As described above, the vibration conveying device 201 of this embodiment can achieve the same effect as the vibration conveying device 1 of this embodiment.

[0106] The vibration conveying device 201 of this embodiment is configured such that the resonant frequencies of the drive spring 10 and the drive spring 210 are different from each other, and it can switch between an excitation state in which the drive spring 10 vibrates and an excitation state in which the drive spring 210 vibrates via the drive unit (not shown).

[0107] In the vibrating conveyor 201 of this embodiment, the tilting posture (orientation, angle) of the drive spring 10 is different from that of the drive spring 210. Specifically, in this embodiment, the tilting direction of the drive spring 210 is set to be opposite to the tilting direction of the drive spring 10 (the direction in which the upper end of the drive spring 10 faces). In the vibrating conveyor 201 of this embodiment, the vibration angles of the drive spring 10 and the drive spring 210 are different, and the conveying direction of the conveyed object on the linear conveying surface when the drive spring 10 vibrates is set to be opposite to the conveying direction of the workpiece on the linear conveying surface when the drive spring 210 vibrates (forward and backward directions).

[0108] Furthermore, the specific structure is not limited to the implementation methods described above.

[0109] For example, in the first to third embodiments described above, the anti-vibration springs 50 and 150 are flat L-shaped elastic components (L-shaped springs), but the shape (length, area, thickness, etc.) of the anti-vibration springs 50 and 150 is arbitrary. The anti-vibration springs 50 and 150 are not limited to the structure in which the first arm portion 51, 151 and the second arm portion 52, 152 are integrally formed.

[0110] For example, the first arms 51, 151 and the second arms 52, 152 may also be connected via other elastic components. The anti-vibration springs 50, 150 are not limited to a structure having first arms 51, 151 arranged parallel to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10 and second arms 52, 152 arranged perpendicular to the elastic main axis of the drive spring 10. The anti-vibration springs 50, 150 may also be springs other than L-shaped springs (e.g., springs connecting the base ends of I-shaped springs to each other, T-shaped springs, etc.) or elastic materials other than springs (rubber, etc.).

[0111] For example, such as Figure 7As shown, the vibration damping spring 350 may also have: a first arm 351, which is mounted on the support surface 2c to attenuate the vibration of the vertical component; a second arm 352, which is arranged perpendicularly to the first arm 351 and mounted on the vibrating body T; and a bending portion 353, which connects the first arm 351 and the second arm 352 and is convexly bent.

[0112] Therefore, in the vibratory conveying device of this modified example, the anti-vibration spring 350, which is used to further reduce the vibration transmitted from the base 2 to the mounting surface, can independently adjust the elastic coefficient in the parallel direction and the elastic coefficient in the vertical direction. In addition, when a force is applied laterally to the side portion of the groove 8, the lateral swaying of the groove 8 is effectively suppressed.

[0113] In the first to third embodiments described above, examples of vibrating bodies are shown, but the structure of the vibrating body is not limited thereto. Therefore, the vibrating body of the present invention may also include a first mass body, a second mass body, and a driving elastic body, and may include other components as well.

[0114] In the first to third embodiments described above, the support surfaces 2c of the two vertical portions 2b of the base are arranged above the center portion in the height direction of the vibrating body T. However, even if the support surfaces 2c of the two vertical portions 2b of the base are arranged above the center of gravity of the vibrating body T, the effects of the present invention can still be obtained.

[0115] In the first to third embodiments described above, the excitation source of the drive spring 10 is a piezoelectric element, but the excitation source can also be a component other than a piezoelectric element. In addition, the conveyed object by the vibration conveying device can be various LEDs such as LEDs, electronic components other than LEDs, or components other than electronic components such as food.

[0116] In the first embodiment described above, instead of placing one or two hard rubbers 35 between the front end portion and the rear end portion of the groove 8, one or two protrusions protruding downward from the lower surface of the groove 8 can be formed between the front end portion and the rear end portion of the groove 8. Alternatively, one or two protrusions protruding upward from the upper surface of the groove support 12 can be formed between the front end portion and the rear end portion of the groove 8.

[0117] In the first embodiment described above, instead of using the locking part 30 to fix the front end of the groove 8 to the groove support 12, the rear end of the groove 8 can also be fixed to the groove support 12 with bolts.

[0118] Furthermore, the specific structure of each part is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0119] The invention described below is based on reference examples of the present invention.

[0120] Various types of vibratory conveying devices are known. For example, the device disclosed in document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-160099) is configured to convey an object to be conveyed on a conveying surface by vibrating a mass body (movable body) elastically supported relative to a base. Furthermore, the device disclosed in document 2 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-168936) is configured to have a pair of mass bodies (movable part and counterweight part) connected via an elastic member, and convey an object to be conveyed on a conveying surface by vibrating them in opposite phases.

[0121] In these vibratory conveying devices, the excitation unit for vibrating the mass is constructed by including a piezoelectric element and an electromagnet. By applying a predetermined driving voltage to the piezoelectric element and the electromagnet from a control drive circuit, a predetermined vibration is excited in the mass, thereby realizing a predetermined conveying mode.

[0122] In the aforementioned vibration conveying device, a wiring structure is naturally required to electrically connect the control drive circuit to the piezoelectric element and electromagnet. However, the control drive circuit is mostly located in a different position from the main structure (the main body of the device), such as the mass or base. Therefore, this wiring structure is connected at one end to the piezoelectric element or electromagnet located inside the main structure, laid along the surface of the mass, or, as needed, inserted through a through-hole provided in the mass and led out to the outside of the main structure, connecting to the drive circuit at the other end.

[0123] In conventional vibratory conveyor systems, round cables are used to form this wiring structure. Furthermore, to facilitate the laying of these round cables and to protect them from damage or breakage, grooves for wiring are formed on the surface of the mass body, along which the round cables are laid. However, since leaving the round cables laid along the surface of the mass body exposed poses a danger, a cover is sometimes installed from above.

[0124] In such a structure, the following problem exists: when the mass is excited, the round cable rubs against the slot and cover, causing torsion, thus acting as a damper to reduce vibration. To avoid this, the depth and width of the slot for wiring need to be sufficiently large relative to the outer diameter of the round cable being laid.

[0125] On the other hand, in order to ensure sufficient amplitude and achieve stable conveying in a vibratory conveying device, it is essential to ensure the weight of the mass body, especially the mass body that functions as a counterweight. However, as the depth and width of the wiring grooves formed on the surface of the mass body increase, the weight of the mass body lost due to the grooves (missing mass) increases, making it difficult to ensure the weight of the mass body.

[0126] Thus, when increasing the grooves formed on the surface of the mass to prevent the vibration from being weakened by the round cable, the weight of the mass cannot be guaranteed, resulting in a decrease in amplitude. Manufacturers of vibratory conveyors are often troubled by this problem. Especially in recent years, with the increasing functionality of vibratory conveyors, the number of piezoelectric elements and other components has been increasing. That is, the number of wires is also increasing. Therefore, this problem is even more serious.

[0127] The purpose of this invention is to achieve a wiring structure in a vibrating conveyor that does not easily damage its conveying performance.

[0128] In order to achieve the above objectives, the invention of this reference example adopts the following means.

[0129] That is, the invention of this reference example is a vibration conveying device, comprising: a structure comprising a mass body that is elastically supported; and an excitation unit that causes the mass body to vibrate, the excitation unit being configured to convey a conveying object by causing the mass body to vibrate, the vibration conveying device being characterized in that at least a portion of the connecting wires connecting a connecting object component disposed inside the structure body and a connected component disposed outside the structure body are formed using a flexible substrate, at least a portion of the flexible substrate being disposed along the surface of the mass body.

[0130] According to this structure, there is no need to create deep grooves on the surface of the mass to prevent vibration from being weakened by the connecting wiring. Therefore, the weight of the mass will not be damaged. That is, the aforementioned problems are eliminated, and the situation where the conveying performance is impaired due to the connecting wiring is avoided.

[0131] Preferably, in the vibratory conveying device, the flexible substrate has a transition portion provided throughout between components that move relatively through vibration, and the transition portion is provided with a relaxation portion that allows relative movement between the components.

[0132] According to this structure, when relative movement occurs between components due to vibration, the flexible substrate does not function like a damper to reduce vibration.

[0133] Preferably, in the vibratory conveying device, the structure has a plurality of mass bodies, and the transition portion is provided between the plurality of mass bodies.

[0134] According to this structure, when multiple masses move relative to each other due to excitation, the flexible substrate does not function like a damper to reduce vibration.

[0135] Preferably, in the vibratory conveying device, the transition portion is provided between the mass body and the connecting object component.

[0136] According to this structure, when the mass and the connected components move relative to each other due to vibration, the flexible substrate does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0137] Preferably, in the vibration conveying device, the structure has an elastic body disposed on the mass body, the excitation part has a piezoelectric element disposed on the elastic body for excitation and an excitation control part for applying a driving voltage to the piezoelectric element, the connecting object part is the piezoelectric element for excitation, and the connected part is the excitation control part.

[0138] According to this structure, the piezoelectric element for excitation can be connected to the excitation control unit without compromising the conveying performance.

[0139] Preferably, in the vibration conveying device, the structure has an elastic body disposed on the mass body, the excitation unit has a piezoelectric element disposed on the elastic body for detection and an excitation control unit for obtaining a detection voltage from the piezoelectric element, the connected component is the piezoelectric element for detection, and the connected component is the excitation control unit.

[0140] According to this structure, the piezoelectric element for detection can be connected to the excitation control unit without compromising the conveying performance.

[0141] According to the invention of this reference example, a wiring structure can be realized in which the conveying performance of the vibrating conveyor is not easily damaged.

[0142] The invention of this reference example will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0143] <1. Structure of Vibrating Conveyor>

[0144] Reference Figures 8-10 The structure of the vibratory conveying device in this reference example will be described. Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the vibration conveying device 1100 of this reference example. Figure 9 This is a side view of the vibrating conveyor 1100. Figure 10 This is an exploded view of the vibrating conveyor device 1100.

[0145] The vibratory conveyor 1100 is a device that uses vibration to convey objects (specifically, various workpieces such as IC chips, tiny coils, etc.).

[0146] The vibratory conveying device 1100 includes: a structure X, which is composed of masses 1001a, 1001b, 1001c, elastic bodies 1002a, 1002b, a base 1003, a cover member 1004, etc.; and an excitation unit Y, which is composed of piezoelectric elements 1005p, 1005q, an excitation control unit 1006, connecting wiring 1007, etc. The excitation unit Y conveys the conveying object by vibrating the masses 1001a, 1001b, 1001c of the structure X.

[0147] like Figure 10 As shown, the first mass body 1001a has an upper block portion 1011a and a lower block portion 1012a. The upper block portion 1011a is a long, block-shaped component. On the other hand, the lower block portion 1012a is a block-shaped component shorter than the upper block portion 1011a, and is fixed to the lower surface of the upper block portion 1011a from its upper surface. The lower block portion 1012a can be fixed to the upper block portion 1011a by bolts or the like, or it can be integrally formed with the upper block portion 1011a.

[0148] A straight conveying surface (linear conveying surface) L is formed on the upper surface of the first mass body 1001a (i.e., the upper surface of the upper block 1011a), and the vibrating conveying device 1100 is arranged with this linear conveying surface L as a horizontal plane. Hereinafter, the extension direction (length direction) of the linear conveying surface L will be referred to as the "front-back direction", and the direction orthogonal to the front-back direction in the horizontal plane (i.e., the width direction (short side direction) of the linear conveying surface L) will be referred to as the "left-right direction".

[0149] The second mass body 1001b has a main block that is generally door-shaped, consisting of a block-shaped portion (front block portion) 1011b disposed at the front and a block-shaped portion (rear block portion) 1012b disposed at the rear, connected at their respective upper ends by a connecting portion 1013b extending along the front and rear. Additionally, the second mass body 1001b has a sub-block portion 1014b that is fixed to the lower surface of the connecting portion 1013b by bolts.

[0150] The third mass body 1001c has a main block that is shaped like an inverted door, consisting of a block-shaped portion (front block portion) 1011c disposed at the front and a block-shaped portion (rear block portion) 1012c disposed at the rear, connected at their respective lower ends by a connecting portion 1013c extending along the front and rear. Additionally, the third mass body 1001c has a sub-block portion 1014c that is fixed to the upper surface of the connecting portion 1013c by bolts.

[0151] like Figure 9As shown, the first mass 1001a is connected to the second mass 1001b via a pair of first elastic bodies 1002a, 1002a that are arranged front-to-back and extend parallel to each other, thereby being elastically supported relative to the second mass 1001b. Similarly, the second mass 1002b is connected to the third mass 1001c via a pair of second elastic bodies 1002b, 1002b that are arranged front-to-back and extend parallel to each other, thereby being elastically supported relative to the third mass 1001c. Furthermore, the third mass 1002c is connected to the base 1003 via a pair of anti-vibration springs 1030, 1030 that are arranged front-to-back and extend parallel to each other, thereby being elastically supported relative to the base 1003. However, the first elastic bodies 1002a, the second elastic bodies, and the anti-vibration springs 1030 are all flat, elastic components, such as leaf springs. In addition, the base 1003 is a block-shaped component with long strips at the front and back, which is placed on the ground or other surfaces at the site where the vibrating conveyor 1100 is installed.

[0152] The connection method of the first elastomer 1002a will be described in more detail. For example... Figure 10 As shown, upper bolt holes H1001a are provided on the front and rear end faces of the lower block portion 1012a of the first mass body 1001a. Lower bolt holes H1002a are provided near the lower end of the front surface of the front block portion 1011b and near the lower end of the rear surface of the rear block portion 1012b of the second mass body 1001b. Furthermore, one type of first elastic body 1002a is bolted to the front surface of the lower block portion 1012a of the first mass body 1001a at its upper end and bolted to the front surface of the front block portion 1011b of the second mass body 1001b at its lower end. Conversely, another type of first elastic body 1002a is bolted to the rear surface of the lower block portion 1012a of the first mass body 1001a at its upper end and bolted to the rear surface of the rear block portion 1012b of the second mass body 1001b at its lower end. Thus, the first mass body 1001a is connected to the second mass body 1001b via a pair of first elastic bodies 1002a, 1002a.

[0153] The connection method of the second elastomer 1002b will be described in more detail. For example... Figure 10As shown, upper bolt holes H1001b are provided near the upper end of the rear surface of the front block portion 1011b of the second mass body 1001b and near the upper end of the front surface of the rear block portion 1012b. Lower bolt holes H1002b are provided near the lower end of the rear surface of the front block portion 1011c and near the lower end of the front surface of the rear block portion 1012c of the third mass body 1001c. Furthermore, one type of second elastic body 1002b is bolted to the rear surface of the front block portion 1011b of the second mass body 1001b at its upper end and bolted to the rear surface of the front block portion 1011c of the third mass body 1001c at its lower end. Conversely, another type of second elastic body 1002b is bolted to the front surface of the rear block portion 1012b of the second mass body 1001b at its upper end and bolted to the front surface of the rear block portion 1012c of the third mass body 1001c at its lower end. Thus, the second mass body 1001b is connected to the third mass body 1001c via a pair of second elastic bodies 1002b, 1002b.

[0154] The connection method of the anti-vibration spring 1030 will be explained in more detail. For example... Figure 10 As shown, upper bolt holes H1301 are provided on the front surface of the front block portion 1011c and the rear surface of the rear block portion 1012c of the third mass body 1001c. Lower bolt holes H1302 are provided on the front and rear end faces of the base 1003. One anti-vibration spring 1030 is bolted to the front surface of the third mass body 1001c at its upper end and to the front surface of the base 1003 at its lower end. The other anti-vibration spring 1030 is bolted to the rear surface of the third mass body 1001c at its upper end and to the rear surface of the base 1003 at its lower end. Thus, the third mass body 1001c is connected to the base 1003 via a pair of anti-vibration springs 1030.

[0155] Thus, the vibration conveying device 1100 has a second mass body 1001b elastically supported by a second elastic body 1002b disposed on a third mass body 1001c provided on the base 3 via a vibration damping spring 1030, and a first mass body 1001a elastically supported by a first elastic body 1002a disposed thereon. When these are likened to a building, this constitutes a two-layer structure: a second mass body 1001a constituting a first layer is disposed on the third mass body 1001c constituting the base, and a first mass body 1001a constituting a second layer is disposed thereon.

[0156] However, the first elastic body 1002a and the second elastic body 1002b are tilted in opposite directions. That is, as Figure 9As shown, the first elastic body 1002a disposed between the first mass body 1001a and the second mass body 1001b is inclined in a forward-facing posture as it tends to move downward, and the second elastic body 1002b disposed between the second mass body 1001b and the third mass body 1001c is inclined in a rearward-facing posture as it tends to move downward.

[0157] Furthermore, the first elastomer 1002a and the second elastomer 1002b are configured to have different resonant frequencies. For example, the resonant frequency of the first elastomer 1002a is set to 500Hz, and the resonant frequency of the second elastomer 1002b is set to 200Hz.

[0158] The first elastic body 1002a and the second elastic body 1002b act as excitation springs to vibrate the masses 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c. Each elastic body 1002a and 1002b is provided with a piezoelectric element (excitation piezoelectric element) 1005p for vibrating due to elastic deformation. Additionally, each elastic body 1002a and 1002b is provided with a piezoelectric element (detection piezoelectric element) 1005q for detecting the degree of elastic deformation. The excitation piezoelectric elements 1005p are provided on both sides of the two first elastic bodies 1002a and 1002a and the two second elastic bodies 1002b and 1002b. That is, a total of eight excitation piezoelectric elements 1005p are provided. On the other hand, the detection piezoelectric elements 1005q are provided on one side of the first elastic body 1002a located at the rear and the second elastic body 1002b located at the front. That is, a total of two piezoelectric elements 1005q are set for testing.

[0159] like Figure 17 As shown, wiring components 1050 are mounted on each excitation piezoelectric element 1005p and each detection piezoelectric element 1005q. The wiring component 1050 has a portion that integrally winds together the elastomers 1002a and 1002b and two excitation piezoelectric elements 1005p (or one detection piezoelectric element 1005q on one side of the elastomer) disposed on both sides of the elastomer, and a U-shaped bend extending from this portion. Leads extending from the piezoelectric elements 1005p and 1005q are laid in the U-shaped bend of the wiring component 1050, and one end of a connecting wiring 1007 is connected thereto. The other end of the connecting wiring 1007 is connected to the excitation control unit 1006, thereby electrically connecting each piezoelectric element 1005p and 1005q to the excitation control unit 1006.

[0160] The vibration control unit 1006 is a functional unit that performs vibration control to cause the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c to vibrate so as to transport the transport object on the linear transport surface L in a predetermined transport manner, and is realized by a drive circuit or the like.

[0161] <2. Operation of the Vibrating Conveyor>

[0162] Next, continue to refer to Figures 8-10 The conveying method implemented by the vibrating conveyor 1100 will be described.

[0163] In the vibrating conveyor 1100, it is possible to switch between conveying a workpiece forward on the linear conveying surface L (feed conveying) and conveying a workpiece backward (return conveying).

[0164] During feeding and conveying, the excitation control unit 1006 applies a driving voltage to each excitation piezoelectric element 1005p disposed on each of the first elastic bodies 1002a, causing each of the first elastic bodies 1002a to vibrate at its resonant frequency. Thus, the first mass body 1001a and the second mass body 1001b vibrate in opposite phases. However, since the first elastic bodies 1002a are tilted downwards and forwards, the linear conveying surface L vibrates in both the upward-forward tilting direction and its opposite direction. This allows the workpiece on the linear conveying surface L to be conveyed forwards.

[0165] On the other hand, during return transport, the excitation control unit 1006 applies a driving voltage to each excitation piezoelectric element 1005p disposed on each of the second elastic bodies 1002b, causing each second elastic body 1002b to vibrate at its resonant frequency. Thus, the second mass body 1001b and the third mass body 1001c vibrate in opposite phases. However, since the second elastic bodies 1002b are tilted downwards and backwards, the linear transport surface L vibrates in both the upward and backward tilting direction and its opposite direction. This allows the workpiece on the linear transport surface L to be transported backwards.

[0166] Thus, in the vibration conveying device 1100, the excitation control unit 1006 switches the vibration state of the first elastic body 1002a and the second elastic body 1002b by switching the excitation piezoelectric element 1005p to which the driving voltage is applied. As a result, the vibration mode of the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c is switched, and the feed conveying and return conveying are switched.

[0167] Furthermore, the vibration control unit 1006 applies a driving voltage to the vibration excitation piezoelectric element 1005p via the connecting wire 1007, and on the other hand, obtains a detection voltage from the detection piezoelectric element 1005q via the connecting wire 1007. That is, the detection piezoelectric element 1005q outputs the voltage generated by the deformation of each elastic body 1002a, 1002b as the detection voltage, and the vibration control unit 1006 obtains this detection voltage. Based on the obtained detection voltage, the vibration control unit 1006 performs corrections, etc., of the driving voltage applied to the vibration excitation piezoelectric element 1005p.

[0168] As described above, the resonant frequencies of the first elastomer 1002a and the second elastomer 1002b are set to different values. Therefore, when one of the first elastomer 1002a and the second elastomer 1002b vibrates at its resonant frequency and is transported in a predetermined direction, the other elastomer will not obstruct the transport.

[0169] That is, when the first elastic body 1002a vibrates at the resonant frequency, the second elastic body 1002b will not undergo large elastic deformation like the first elastic body 1002a, and will not hinder the forward conveying of the workpiece. Since the second elastic body 1002b does not undergo large elastic deformation, the second mass body 1001b and the third mass body 1001c connected via the second elastic body 1002b vibrate like a single rigid body. At this time, the second mass body 1001b functions as a counterweight, and the second elastic body 1002b functions as an auxiliary anti-vibration spring.

[0170] Furthermore, when the second elastic body 1002b vibrates at the resonant frequency, the first elastic body 1002a does not undergo significant elastic deformation like the second elastic body 1002b, thus not hindering the rearward transport of the workpiece. Since the first elastic body 1002a does not undergo significant elastic deformation, the first mass body 1001a and the second mass body 1001b, connected via the first elastic body 1002a, vibrate like a single rigid body. At this time, the third mass body 1001c functions as a counterweight, and the first mass body 1001a and the second mass body 1001b can be considered as a single unit, vibrating in a manner that transports the workpiece rearward.

[0171] As a specific application example of the vibrating conveyor 1100, a structure in which a hopper feeder is connected to the rear end of the linear conveying surface L can be envisioned. In this case, the workpiece supplied from the hopper feeder can be conveyed forward by feed conveying. On the other hand, for example, the lower block portion 1012a of the first mass body 1001a can function as a shoot stand, and the workpiece falling onto the shoot stand can be returned to the hopper feeder by return conveying.

[0172] In conventional vibratory conveying devices, to switch between feed conveying and return conveying, for example, two device units are arranged side by side. Each device unit consists of a structure comprising a mass body with a linear conveying surface and an excitation unit for vibrating the structure. Feed conveying is performed by exciting the linear conveying surface on one side of the structure using one excitation unit, and return conveying is performed by exciting the linear conveying surface on the other side of the structure using the other excitation unit. Compared to such conventional vibratory conveying devices, the vibratory conveying device 1100 of this reference example is configured with only one structure X and one excitation unit Y, and can perform both feed conveying and return conveying. Therefore, compared to conventional vibratory conveying devices, the size of the device (especially the width) can be approximately half that of conventional devices. Therefore, it can be easily implemented even in space-constrained environments. Furthermore, when multiple rows of vibrating conveyor devices 1100 are configured for use, the number of vibrating conveyor devices 1100 can be doubled compared to conventional vibrating conveyor devices, thus doubling the conveying efficiency.

[0173] <3. Connection wiring>

[0174] Next, refer to Figure 11 , Figure 12 The connection wiring 1007 of the vibratory conveyor 1100 will be described. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the vibratory conveyor 1100 with the cover component 1004 removed. Figure 12 This is a side view of the vibration conveying device 1100 with the cover component 1004 removed. Furthermore, hereinafter, without distinguishing between the excitation piezoelectric element 1005p and the detection piezoelectric element 1005q, it will be simply referred to as "piezoelectric element 1005".

[0175] The connecting wiring 1007 is a wiring that connects the piezoelectric elements 1005 as the connection target and the vibration control unit 1006 as the connection subject, connecting the two 1005 and 1006. As described above, in the vibration conveying device 1100, a structure X is constructed by including mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, 1001c, elastic bodies 1002a, 1002b, a base 1003, a cover member 1004, etc., and the vibration control unit 1006 is provided on the outside of the structure X. On the other hand, as described above, each piezoelectric element 1005 is mounted on the elastic bodies 1002a, 1002b. That is, it is provided inside the structure X. That is, the connecting wiring 1007 is connected at one end to the piezoelectric element 1005 provided inside the structure X, leads out to the outside of the structure X, and is connected to the vibration control unit 1006 at the other end.

[0176] A portion of the connecting wiring 1007 is constructed using a flexible substrate F. Specifically, the terminal 1060 of the cable extending from the excitation control unit 1006 is led out to the upper surface of the base 1003 via a through portion 1031 formed on the base 1003. Figure 10 The portion of the connecting wiring 1007 that connects the terminal 1060 to each piezoelectric element 1005 is constructed using a flexible substrate F.

[0177] Apart from Figure 11 , Figure 12 In addition, refer to Figure 13 , Figure 14 The flexible substrate F that forms part of the connection wiring 1007 will be described. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the flexible substrate F before it is bent in three dimensions. Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a flexible substrate F that has been bent three-dimensionally.

[0178] The flexible substrate F differs from a rigid substrate in that it is a substrate with wiring patterns formed on a thin-walled base film that has flexibility. It is also called a flexible printed wiring board, FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), etc. Here, a flexible substrate F with wiring patterns formed on both sides of a base film made of insulating materials such as polyimide is used to form part of the connecting wiring 1007 by using copper foil or the like. The flexible substrate forming the wiring (cable) is also called a flexible cable.

[0179] The flexible substrate F has a shape that branches from a pair of base ends F1 toward six end portions F2. Terminal portions 1070 are provided at each end F1, F2, and wiring patterns that connect the terminal portions 1070 on the base end F1 side to the terminal portions 1070 on the end portion F2 side are formed on the front and back sides of the substrate.

[0180] The flexible substrate F has bending properties, from Figure 13 Starting from the planar shape shown, it bends at a predetermined position and then curves again at a predetermined position, thereby becoming a three-dimensional shape corresponding to the shape of the structure X. Figure 14 ), installed on construct X ( Figure 11 , Figure 12 At this time, the terminal portion 1070 provided at each base end F1 is connected to the terminal 1060 of the excitation control unit 1006, and the terminal portion 1070 provided at each end F2 is connected to the piezoelectric element 1005. After the flexible substrate F is installed, the cover member 1004 is arranged to cover the flexible substrate F. Figure 11 ).

[0181] When mounted on the structure X, portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 of the flexible substrate F are arranged along the sides of the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c (hereinafter referred to as "alongside portions"). Additionally, other portions 1721, 1722, and 1723 (hereinafter referred to as "transition portions") are provided throughout the components that move relative to each other due to vibration. The alongside portions and transition portions will be described below.

[0182] (along the designated section)

[0183] The flexible substrate F is provided with: a lower side edge portion 1711 disposed along the side of the third mass body 1001c, a front side edge portion 1712 disposed along the side of the front block portion 1011b of the second mass body 1001b, and a rear side edge portion 1713 disposed along the side of the rear block portion 1012b of the second mass body 1001b.

[0184] Each of the following portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 is shaped to be housed within the surface of the side of the mass bodies 1001c and 1001b, and is arranged along the side and fixed to the side using double-sided tape or the like.

[0185] (First Transition Section)

[0186] The flexible substrate F has two transition portions (first transition portions) 1721 disposed between the second mass body 1001b and the third mass body 1001c. One first transition portion 1721 is disposed between the lower edge portion 1711 and the front edge portion 1712 in the flexible substrate F. Figure 13 , Figure 14 When installed on structure X, it is positioned between the front block portion 11b of the third mass body 1001c and the second mass body 1001b. Figure 12 Additionally, another first transition portion 1721 is disposed between the lower edge portion 1711 and the rear edge portion 1713 in the flexible substrate F. Figure 13 , Figure 14 When installed on construct X, it is positioned between the rear block portion 1012b of the third mass body 1001c and the second mass body 1001b. Figure 12 ).

[0187] Reference Figure 15 The first transition section 1721 will be explained. Figure 15 The image shows a first transition portion 1721 located on the rear side, but the first transition portion 1721 located on the front side also has the same structure.

[0188] The first transition section 1721 is a strip-shaped portion that extends in a straight line before being bent three-dimensionally. Figure 13 In its three-dimensional shape, the boundary 1730 of the portions 1711, 1713 (1712) bends at approximately 90°, and the approximately central portion of the first transition portion 1721 bends into a U-shape. Figure 14 Furthermore, the first transition portion 1721, bent into a U-shape, is inserted between a pair of opposing surfaces S1 and S2, that is, between the lower surface S1 of the second mass body 1001b and the upper surface S2 of the third mass body 1001c. Figure 15 ).

[0189] Therefore, the first transition portion 1721 is configured such that the portion from one end to the bend runs along the lower surface S1 of the second mass body 1001b, and the portion from the other end to the bend runs along the upper surface S2 of the third mass body 1001c. However, the first transition portion 1721 is configured such that its two ends are sandwiched between the protrusion 1041 provided on the cover member 1004 and each surface S1, S2, so that it will not float up from each surface S1, S2, but in other parts, it is not fixed relative to each surface S1, S2 and can be separated from each surface S1, S2.

[0190] Thus, the first transition portion 1721 is not linearly disposed between the two masses 1001b and 1001c, but rather has a slack portion (i.e., clearance). Therefore, when the two masses 1001b and 1001c move relative to each other due to vibration, the displacement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c is absorbed by this slack portion, thereby allowing the relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c. That is, the flexible substrate F does not hinder the relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c; in this transition portion, the flexible substrate F does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0191] In particular, during excitation, the relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c essentially includes only components in the front-back and vertical directions. However, the first transition portion 1721 can be flexibly deformed in these directions, thereby allowing sufficient relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c in these directions. That is, the first transition portion 1721 is bent into a U-shape, configured along the front-back direction and with its two ends overlapping vertically. Therefore, by deforming in a manner that changes the position of the bent portion, the first transition portion 1721 can widely follow the relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c in the front-back direction, and by deforming in a manner that changes the bending angle, it can also widely follow the relative movement of the two masses 1001b and 1001c in the vertical direction.

[0192] (Second Transition Section)

[0193] The flexible substrate F has two transition portions (second transition portions) 1722, 1722 disposed between the third mass body 1001c and the terminal 1060 of the excitation control unit 1006. Each second transition portion 1722 is disposed between the base end F1 and the lower edge portion 1711 in the flexible substrate F. Figure 13 , Figure 14 When installed on structure X, it is positioned back and forth between the third mass body 1001c and the base 1003. Figure 12 ).

[0194] Reference Figure 16 The second transition section 1722 is explained. Figure 16 The second transition portion 1722 at the rear is shown, but the second transition portion 1722 at the front also has the same structure.

[0195] The second transition section 1722 is a strip-shaped portion that extends in a straight line before being bent three-dimensionally. Figure 13 In its three-dimensional shape, the lower edge of the portion 1711 bends at approximately 90° to the boundary 1730, and the central portion of the second transition portion 1722 bends into a U-shape. Figure 14 Furthermore, the second transition portion 1722, bent into a U-shape, is inserted between a pair of opposing surfaces S1 and S2, that is, between the lower surface S1 of the third mass body 1001c and the upper surface S2 of the base 3. Figure 16 Then, the terminal portion 1070 provided at the base end F1 is connected to the terminal 1060 of the excitation control section 1006 led out to the upper surface of the base 1003.

[0196] Therefore, the second transition portion 1722 is configured such that the portion from one end to the bend runs along the lower surface S1 of the third mass body 1001c, and the portion from the other end to the bend runs along the upper surface S2 of the base 1003. However, the second transition portion 1722 is configured such that its end connected to the terminal 1060 is fixed to the upper surface S2 of the base 1003, but in other portions, it is not fixed relative to each surface S1, S2, and can be separated from each surface S1, S2.

[0197] Thus, the second transition portion 1722 is not linearly disposed between the third mass 1001c and the base 1003, but rather has a relaxation portion. Therefore, when the third mass 1001c moves relative to the base 1003 due to vibration, this relaxation portion absorbs the displacement of the third mass 1001c relative to the base 1003, thereby allowing the relative movement of the third mass 1001c. That is, the flexible substrate F does not hinder the relative movement of the third mass 1001c; in this transition portion, the flexible substrate F does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0198] In particular, during excitation, the direction of relative movement of the third mass 1001c relative to the base 1003 essentially includes only front-to-back and up-down components. The second transition portion 1722, like the first transition portion 1721, is bent into a U-shape, configured along the front-to-back direction and with its ends overlapping vertically, thus allowing for flexible deformation in these directions. Therefore, the second transition portion 1722 sufficiently allows the third mass 1001c to move relative to the base 1003 in these directions.

[0199] (Third Transitional Section)

[0200] The flexible substrate F has six transition portions (third transition portions) 1723 disposed between the second mass body 1001b or the third mass body 1001c and each piezoelectric element 1005. Each third transition portion 1723 is disposed between each end portion F2 and each along portion 1711, 1712, 1713 in the flexible substrate F. Figure 13 , Figure 14 When installed on structure X, it is positioned between mass bodies 1001b and 1001c and each piezoelectric element 1005. Figure 12 ).

[0201] Reference Figure 17 The third transition section 1723 is explained. Figure 17 The diagram shows a third transition portion 1723 disposed between the front block portion 1011c of the third mass body 1001c and the piezoelectric element 1005 (excitation piezoelectric element 1005p) disposed in front of the second elastic body 1002b, but other third transition portions 1723 also have a substantially the same structure.

[0202] The third transition section 1723 is a strip-shaped portion that extends in a straight line in the unfolded state. Figure 13 In its three-dimensional shape, the boundary 1730 of each of the adjacent portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 bends at approximately 90°, and the approximately central portion of the third transition portion 1723 bends into a U-shape. Figure 14Furthermore, the third transition portion 1723, bent into a U-shape, is inserted between a pair of opposing surfaces S1 and S2, that is, in Figure 17 In the case of the third transition portion 1723 shown, it is inserted between the rear surface S1 of the front block portion 1011c of the third mass body 1001c and the front surface S2 of the wiring member 1050 provided on the piezoelectric element 1005. Figure 17 Then, the terminal portion 1070 provided at the end portion F2 is connected to the wiring portion 1050 (and further, the piezoelectric element 1005).

[0203] Therefore, the third transition portion 1723 is configured such that the portion from one end to the bend runs along the rear surface S1 of the third mass body 1001c, and the portion from the other end to the bend runs along the front surface S2 of the wiring member 1050. However, the third transition portion 1723 is configured such that its end connected to the wiring member 1050 is fixed to the front surface S2 of the wiring member 1050, but in other portions it is not fixed relative to each surface S1, S2, and can be separated from each surface S1, S2.

[0204] Thus, the third transition portion 1723 is not linearly disposed between the second mass 1001b or the third mass 1001c and the piezoelectric element 1005, but is disposed with a relaxation portion. Therefore, when the elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b deform due to vibration, and the piezoelectric element 1005 moves relative to the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c, the displacement of the piezoelectric element 1005 relative to the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c is absorbed by this relaxation portion, thereby allowing the relative movement of the piezoelectric element 1005. That is, the deformation of the elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b is not hindered by the flexible substrate F, and in this transition portion, the flexible substrate F does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0205] In particular, during excitation, the direction of relative movement of the piezoelectric element 1005 relative to the masses 1001b and 1001c basically only includes components in the front-back and vertical directions. However, the second transition portion 1722 can be flexibly deformed in these directions, thereby allowing sufficient relative movement of the piezoelectric element 1005 relative to the masses 1001b and 1001c in these directions. That is, the third transition portion 1723 is bent into a U-shape, configured in a generally vertical manner, and configured with its two ends generally overlapping horizontally. Therefore, by deforming in a manner that changes the position of the bent portion, the third transition portion 1723 can widely follow the relative movement of the piezoelectric element 1005 in the vertical direction, and by deforming in a manner that changes the bending angle, it can also widely follow the relative movement of the piezoelectric element 1005 in the horizontal direction.

[0206] <4. Effects>

[0207] The vibration conveying device 1100 described in the above-mentioned reference example includes: a structure X, which is constructed by including mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c that are elastically supported; and an excitation unit Y, which causes the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c to vibrate. The excitation unit Y is configured to convey a conveying object by causing the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c to vibrate. Here, at least a portion of the connection wiring 1007 connecting the piezoelectric element 1005, which is a connection object component disposed inside the structure X, and the excitation control unit 11006, which is a connected component disposed outside the structure X, is formed using a flexible substrate F. At least a portion 1711, 1712, and 1713 of the flexible substrate F are disposed along the surfaces of the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c. According to this structure, it is not necessary to provide deep grooves on the surfaces of the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c to prevent vibration from being reduced by the connecting wiring 1007. Therefore, the weight of the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c is not affected. That is, the possibility of the conveying performance being compromised by the connecting wiring 1007 is avoided.

[0208] In particular, the portions of the connecting wiring 1007 arranged along the surfaces of the second mass body 1001b and the third mass body 1001c are made of a flexible substrate F. The second mass body 1001b functions as a counterweight during feed transport, and the third mass body 1001c functions as a counterweight during return transport. By ensuring the mass of these two mass bodies 1001b and 1001c, the transport performance of both feed transport and return transport can be fully guaranteed.

[0209] Furthermore, regarding the vibration conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-mentioned reference example, the flexible substrate F has transition portions 1721, 1722, and 1723 provided throughout the components that move relative to each other due to vibration, and slack portions that allow relative movement between the components are provided in the transition portions 1721, 1722, and 1723. Therefore, when relative movement between components occurs due to vibration, the flexible substrate F does not function like a damper to reduce vibration.

[0210] Furthermore, regarding the vibration conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-mentioned reference example, the structure X has multiple mass bodies 1001b and 1001c, and a transition portion (first transition portion) 1721 is provided between the multiple mass bodies 1001b and 1001c. Therefore, when the multiple mass bodies 1001b and 1001c move relative to each other due to excitation, the flexible substrate F does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0211] Furthermore, regarding the vibration conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-mentioned reference example, a transition portion (third transition portion) 1723 is provided between the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c and the piezoelectric element 1005, which is the connection object. Therefore, when the mass bodies 1001b and 1001c and the piezoelectric element 1005 move relative to each other due to excitation, the flexible substrate F does not function as a damper to reduce vibration.

[0212] Furthermore, regarding the vibration conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-described reference example, the structure X includes elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b disposed on the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c, and the excitation unit Y includes a piezoelectric element 1005p for excitation disposed on the elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b and an excitation control unit 1006 for applying a driving voltage thereto. Moreover, the component to be connected in the connection wiring 1007 is the piezoelectric element 1005p for excitation, and the component being connected is the excitation control unit 1006. Therefore, the piezoelectric element 1005p for excitation and the excitation control unit 1006 can be connected without compromising the conveying performance.

[0213] Furthermore, regarding the vibration conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-described reference example, the structure X includes elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b disposed on the mass bodies 1001a, 1001b, and 1001c, and the excitation unit Y includes a detection piezoelectric element 1005q disposed on the elastic bodies 1002a and 1002b and an excitation control unit 1006 that obtains detection voltage from them. Moreover, the connection target component in the connection wiring 1007 is the detection piezoelectric element 1005q, and the connected component is the excitation control unit 1006. Therefore, the detection piezoelectric element 1005q can be connected to the excitation control unit 1006 without compromising the conveying performance.

[0214] Furthermore, regarding the flexible substrate F, the laying operation is completed simply by bending and folding it at predetermined locations to form a three-dimensional shape, and then mounting it onto the structure X. Therefore, compared to laying round cables, the workload of the laying operation is significantly reduced.

[0215] Furthermore, in the aforementioned reference example, the portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 of the connecting wiring 1007 arranged along the surfaces of the masses 1001b and 1001c are constructed from a flexible substrate F with a thickness significantly smaller than that of round cables. For example, if a base film is formed from polyimide, which has excellent voltage resistance, the thickness of the base film can be reduced to approximately 25 μm. Alternatively, for example, if the wiring pattern is formed from copper foil, the film thickness can be reduced to approximately 18 μm. For example, if the flexible substrate F is formed using this combination, its thickness can be approximately 127 μm. Because the portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 of the connecting wiring 1007 arranged along the surfaces of the masses 1001b and 1001c are formed using such a thin flexible substrate F, the increase in the width of the device accompanying the laying of the connecting wiring 1007 can be significantly reduced compared to the case of using round cables.

[0216] In particular, regarding the vibratory conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-mentioned reference example, it is configured to switch between feed conveying and return conveying without increasing the size of the device (especially the width dimension). Thus, when realizing the introduction to the field where there is no space and the realization of high conveying efficiency based on multi-row configuration, the connection wiring 1007 constructed by including a flexible substrate F is adopted. Thus, the vibratory conveying device can be utilized to the maximum extent without compromising the advantages of the compact and thin vibratory conveying device 1100 in terms of width dimension.

[0217] Furthermore, regarding the vibratory conveying device 1100 mentioned in the above-described reference example, in order to switch between feed conveying and return conveying without increasing the size of the device, a relatively large number of elastomers 1002a and 1002b are provided in the structure X, and consequently, a relatively large number of piezoelectric elements 1005 are provided. That is, the number of connected components is large. However, if at least a portion of the connecting wiring 1007 is formed using a flexible substrate F, multiple connected components can be connected without difficulty without compromising the conveying performance of the vibratory conveying device 1100.

[0218] <5. Variations>

[0219] In the vibration conveying device 1100 described in the above-mentioned reference example, grooves corresponding to the shapes of the lateral portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 disposed along the surfaces of the mass bodies 1001c and 1001b may be formed, with each lateral portion 1711, 1712, and 1713 disposed along its respective surface in a manner that accommodates it within the corresponding groove. However, in this case, the depth of the groove need only be equivalent to the thickness of the flexible substrate F, and can be an extremely shallow depth of about a few millimeters. By forming such grooves, the laying operation of the flexible substrate F can be further simplified.

[0220] In addition, in the above-described reference example, a portion of the connection wiring 1007 connecting the piezoelectric element 1005, which is the component to be connected, and the excitation control unit 1006, which is the component to be connected, is made of a flexible substrate F, but the entire connection wiring 7 may also be made of a flexible substrate F.

[0221] Furthermore, in the aforementioned reference example, the portion of the connecting wiring 1007 where the terminal 1060 of the cable extending from the excitation control unit 1006 connects to each piezoelectric element 1005 is constituted by a single flexible substrate F. However, this portion may also be constituted by including multiple flexible substrates. For example, portions corresponding to each of the extension portions 1711, 1712, and 1713 may be constituted by separate flexible substrates, or portions corresponding to each of the transition portions 1721, 1722, and 1723 may be constituted by round cables having slack portions.

[0222] The connection wiring 1007 described in the above-described reference example can be applied to various vibration conveying devices. For example, in a vibration conveying device, there is a device configured to use an electromagnet to vibrate a mass body elastically supported relative to a base or the like, thereby conveying an object to be conveyed on a conveying surface formed on the upper surface of the mass body. In such a vibration conveying device, the connection wiring 7 described in the above-described reference example can also be applied. In this case, for example, at least a portion of the connection wiring connecting the electromagnet and the vibration control unit can be formed from a flexible substrate, and at least a portion of the flexible substrate can be disposed along the surface of the mass body.

[0223] Additionally, for example, in a vibratory conveying device, there exists a device configured to have two masses (a movable part and a counterweight) connected via an elastic body, and a conveying table connected to one of the masses. By applying a driving voltage to a piezoelectric element attached to the elastic body, the two masses vibrate in opposite phases, thereby conveying an object formed on the conveying surface of the conveying table. In such a vibratory conveying device, the connection wiring 1007 described in the above-mentioned reference example can also be used. In this case, for example, at least a portion of the connection wiring connecting the piezoelectric element and the vibration control unit can be formed from a flexible substrate, and at least a portion of this flexible substrate can be disposed along the surface of one or both of the masses.

[0224] In the above-described reference example, the connection target component in the connection wiring 1007 is a piezoelectric element 1005, but the connection target component is not limited to the piezoelectric element 1005. For example, it can also be an electromagnet as in the above-described modified example, or various sensor components, etc.

[0225] In the above reference example, the connected component in the connecting wiring 1007 is the excitation control unit 1006, but the connected component is not limited to this.

[0226] Furthermore, the substrate and wiring forming material of the flexible substrate F are not limited to the materials illustrated in the above-mentioned reference examples.

[0227] In addition, the objects conveyed in the vibratory conveyor are not limited to IC chips, tiny coils, and other workpieces.

[0228] Other structures can also be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention as described in this reference example.

[0229] Industrial availability

[0230] The present invention can be applied to a vibratory conveying device capable of conveying an object along a predetermined direction, and to a multi-track vibratory conveying system having the vibratory conveying device.

[0231] Symbol Explanation

[0232] 1. Vibrating Conveyor

[0233] 2. Base

[0234] 2c Support surface

[0235] 5. Movable part (first mass body)

[0236] 6. Fixed part (second mass body)

[0237] 8 slots (first mass body)

[0238] 8t linear conveyor surface

[0239] 10. Drive spring (drive elastomer)

[0240] 12-slot support platform (first mass body)

[0241] 50 Anti-vibration spring (anti-vibration elastomer)

[0242] 51 First Arm

[0243] 52 Second Arm

[0244] 201 Vibrating Conveyor

[0245] 210 Drive Spring

[0246] 212a Main block (second mass body)

[0247] 212b Sub-block (Second Mass Body)

[0248] 213a main block

[0249] 213b secondary block

[0250] 350 Anti-vibration spring (anti-vibration elastomer)

[0251] 351 First Arm

[0252] 352 Second Arm

[0253] 353 Bend

[0254] A1 First Fixing Part

[0255] A2 Second Fixing Part

[0256] T vibrating body

[0257] X Construct

[0258] 1001a First Mass Body

[0259] 1001b Second Mass Body

[0260] 1001c Third Mass Body

[0261] 1002a First elastic body

[0262] 1002b Second Elastomer

[0263] 1003 Base

[0264] 1004 Cover Components

[0265] Y Excitation Section

[0266] 1005 Piezoelectric element (connecting component)

[0267] 1005p piezoelectric element for excitation

[0268] 1005q Piezoelectric element for testing

[0269] 1006 Vibration Control Unit (Connected Component)

[0270] 1007 Connection Wiring

[0271] F Flexible substrate

[0272] 1711 Lower edge part

[0273] 1712 Front edge section

[0274] 1713 Rear edge section

[0275] 1721 First Transitional Section

[0276] 1722 Second Transitional Section

[0277] 1723 Third Transitional Part

[0278] 1100 Vibrating conveyor device.

Claims

1. A vibrating conveying device, which conveys an object on a linear conveying surface by vibration, characterized in that, having: a first mass body having the linear conveying surface; a second mass body vibrating in a phase opposite to the first mass body; a drive elastic body connecting the first mass body and the second mass body; a base having a support surface disposed above a central portion in a height direction of a vibrating body including the first mass body, the second mass body, and the drive elastic body, or a center of gravity of the vibrating body, on an upstream side in a conveying direction and a downstream side in the conveying direction of the vibrating body; and a vibration isolation elastic body connecting the vibrating body and the support surface, one end of the vibration isolation elastic body being connected to the support surface and the other end of the vibration isolation elastic body being connected to the drive elastic body or the second mass body.

2. The vibrating conveyor according to claim 1, wherein the vibration isolation elastic body has: a first arm portion mounted to the support surface to attenuate a vertical component of vibration; and a second arm portion disposed perpendicularly to the first arm portion and mounted to the vibrating body.

3. The vibrating conveyor according to claim 1, wherein the vibration isolation elastic body has: a first arm portion mounted to the support surface to attenuate a vertical component of vibration; a second arm portion disposed perpendicularly to the first arm portion and mounted to the vibrating body; and a curved portion connecting the first arm portion and the second arm portion and curved in a convex shape.

4. The vibrating conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the vibrating body and a first fixed portion of the vibration isolation elastic body are disposed below a second fixed portion of the vibration isolation elastic body and the support surface.

5. A multi-column vibrating conveying system, comprising: a plurality of vibrating conveyors according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the plurality of linear conveying surfaces being disposed substantially in parallel. ​ ​

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