Conveyor device

Abstract

This conveying device includes: a sliding member (30); conveying parts (1, 2) including a plurality of conveying modules (10a, 10b) for conveying the sliding member; a connecting member (50) which is separately provided from the conveying modules and connects adjacent conveying modules in a manner capable of transmitting signals; and a first display (60) which is correspondingly provided for each of the plurality of conveying modules and displays the states of the conveying modules.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conveying device, and more particularly to a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules each having a conveying slider. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules each having a conveying slider has been known. Such a conveying device is disclosed, for example, in International Publication No. 2018 / 055720.

[0003] A conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules each having a conveying slider is disclosed in the above-mentioned International Publication No. 2018 / 055720. In the conveying device of International Publication No. 2018 / 055720, a plurality of conveying modules are connected to form a conveying path.

[0004] Prior Art Documents

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2018 / 055720 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] In the conveying device of the above-mentioned International Publication No. 2018 / 055720, since a plurality of conveying modules are connected to form a conveying path, it is difficult to determine in which conveying module an abnormality has occurred, etc., when an abnormality occurs in any of the conveying modules. Therefore, a conveying device is desired that can easily determine the location where an abnormality has occurred, etc., in a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules.

[0009] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a conveying device that can easily determine the location where an abnormality has occurred, etc., in a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules when an abnormality has occurred.

[0010] Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] To achieve the above object, a conveying device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a slider; a conveying unit including a plurality of conveying modules that convey the slider; a connection member that is provided separately from the conveying modules and connects adjacent conveying modules in a manner capable of transmitting signals; and a first display provided in each of the plurality of conveying modules and displaying the state of the conveying module.

[0012] In the conveying device according to one aspect of the present invention, as described above, a first display for displaying the state of the conveying module is provided for each of the plurality of conveying modules. Thus, in the case of an abnormality or the like, the abnormality or the like can be notified by the first display provided for each conveying module, so that it is possible to easily determine in which conveying module the abnormality or the like has occurred. As a result, in a conveying device having a plurality of conveying modules, in the case of an abnormality or the like, the occurrence location of the abnormality or the like can be easily determined.

[0013] In the conveying device according to the above aspect, preferably, the first display is disposed on a side surface portion on one side of each of the side surfaces of each conveying module that extends along the conveying direction of the slider. If configured in this way, the first display can be easily confirmed from the side of the conveying module.

[0014] In this case, preferably, a second display is further provided, which is provided on the connecting member and displays the state of each conveying module, and the second display is disposed on the side surface portion on the other side of each of the side surfaces of each conveying module that extends along the conveying direction of the slider. If configured in this way, the first display can be confirmed from one side of the conveying module, and the second display can be confirmed from the other side of the conveying module, so that the state of the conveying module can be confirmed from both sides of the conveying module.

[0015] In the above structure having the second display, preferably, the connecting member includes an inclined surface that slopes downward from the conveying module toward the outside, and the second display is disposed on the inclined surface. If configured in this way, the second display disposed on the inclined surface can be easily confirmed from diagonally above, so that the state of the conveying module can be easily confirmed.

[0016] In the above structure having the second display, preferably, a pair of second displays are provided on the connecting member in such a way as to correspond to both of the adjacent conveying modules connected by the connecting member. If configured in this way, the states of both of the adjacent conveying modules can be confirmed at the connecting portion of the adjacent conveying modules.

[0017] In this case, preferably, one of the pair of second displays displays the state of one of the adjacent conveying modules and is disposed on a portion of the connecting member on the side of one conveying module, and the other of the pair of second displays displays the state of the other of the adjacent conveying modules and is disposed on a portion of the connecting member on the side of the other conveying module. If configured in this way, it is possible to easily determine which one of the adjacent conveying modules has an abnormality or the like at the connecting portion of the adjacent conveying modules.

[0018] In the above-described structure with the second display, preferably, the first display and the second display each include an indicator that displays the state of the conveying module by lighting, blinking, or color of light. If configured in this way, it is possible to easily confirm the state of the conveying module by changing the color, lighting mode, blinking mode, etc. of the light according to the state of the conveying module and displaying it on the indicator.

[0019] In the conveying device according to the above aspect, preferably, the conveying module includes: a module main body; a linear motor provided on the module main body; a control substrate provided on the module main body and controlling the drive of the linear motor; a motor power supply substrate supplying power to the linear motor; a first wiring supplying power to the control substrate; and a second wiring supplying power to the motor power supply substrate, and the control substrate, the motor power supply substrate, the first wiring, and the second wiring are built in the module main body. If configured in this way, it is possible to separately build in the module main body the first wiring supplying power to the control substrate and the second wiring supplying power to the motor power supply substrate, and thus it is possible to set the first wiring and the second wiring according to the required power of the control substrate and the motor power supply substrate, respectively.

[0020] In this case, preferably, the conveying module further includes a plurality of first terminals connected in electrical parallel, the plurality of first terminals connecting the first wiring and being arranged on side surfaces of different positions of the module main body along the conveying direction of the slider. If configured in this way, it is possible to eliminate the input and output polarities of the plurality of first terminals, and thus it is possible to make any one of the first terminals an input terminal and the other first terminals output terminals. Thereby, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the wiring connected to the first terminals, and thus it is possible to suppress the case where the wiring connected to the first terminals becomes long.

[0021] In the structure in which the above-described conveying module includes the first terminals, preferably, a plurality of second wirings are provided independently of each other in the conveying module, and the conveying module further includes a plurality of second terminals connected in electrical parallel, the plurality of second terminals connecting the second wiring and being arranged on side surfaces of different positions of the module main body along the conveying direction of the slider. If configured in this way, even when the conveying module is lengthened, it is possible to supply power to the plurality of second wirings separately according to the length. In addition, since it is possible to eliminate the input and output polarities of the plurality of second terminals, it is possible to make any one of the second terminals an input terminal and the other second terminals output terminals. Thereby, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the wiring connected to the second terminals, and thus it is possible to suppress the case where the wiring connected to the second terminals becomes long.

[0022] In this case, preferably, a connecting member is further provided, which positions and connects adjacent conveying modules respectively. A first electric wire that is connected to the first terminal and supplies power to the control substrate, a second electric wire that is connected to the second terminal and supplies power to the motor power substrate, the connecting member, and the connecting member are configured to be detachable from the conveying module independently of each other. If configured in this way, when replacing the first electric wire, the second electric wire, or the connecting member, it is possible to perform detachment and attachment independently of the connecting member that positions adjacent conveying modules respectively. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove the connecting member. As a result, it is not necessary to reposition the conveying modules that have been positioned once.

[0023] In the conveying device according to the above aspect, preferably, the connecting member includes a substrate having an electric wire for transmitting signals or a circuit path for transmitting signals. If configured in this way, the structure of the connecting member can be simplified, and thus the probability of occurrence of failures can be suppressed. As a result, maintenance of the connecting member can be easily performed.

[0024] Advantages of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, as described above, in a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules, in the case of an abnormality or the like, the occurrence location of the abnormality or the like can be easily determined. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a plan view showing a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the overall structure of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a conveying unit and a slider of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a first display and a second display of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining the wiring of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0032] Refer to Figures 1 to 5 , and the structure of a conveying device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0033] (Structure of the conveying device)

[0034] The conveying device 100 of the present embodiment is configured to convey an object to be conveyed placed on the slider 30 along the conveying parts 1 and 2. In addition, the object to be conveyed by the conveying device 100 is operated at a plurality of conveying positions. The object to be conveyed is operated by a robot or an operator.

[0035] As Figure 1 shown, the conveying device 100 includes a conveying part 1, a conveying part 2, a transfer conveying part 3, a transfer conveying part 4, and a slider 30. In addition, as Figure 2 shown, the conveying device 100 includes a control device 40. In addition, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the conveying device 100 includes a connecting member 50. In addition, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the conveying device 100 includes a first display 60. In addition, as Figure 5 shown, the conveying device 100 includes a control power supply 80 and a motor power supply 90.

[0036] The conveying part 1 includes a conveying module 10a. The conveying part 2 includes a plurality (two) of conveying modules 10b. The plurality of conveying modules 10b are connected in a straight line to form a conveying path for the slider 30. The slider 30 is conveyed in the X direction in the conveying parts 1 and 2, and is conveyed from the conveying part 1 (2) to the conveying part 2 (1) in the Y direction by the transfer conveying parts 3 and 4. That is, the slider 30 is conveyed in the order of the conveying part 1, the transfer conveying part 3, the conveying part 2, and the transfer conveying part 4 and is recycled. The conveying module 10a is formed to be longer than the conveying module 10b in the X direction. That is, the conveying module 10a is formed to be long-sized.

[0037] As Figure 2 shown, the conveying module 10a (10b) includes a linear motor stator 11, a position detection part 12, a control board 13, and a motor power supply board 14. In addition, as Figure 1 and Figure 3 shown, the conveying module 10a (10b) includes a guide rail 15. In addition, the conveying module 10a (10b) includes a cover 16. In addition, the conveying module 10a (10b) includes a module main body 101. In addition, the linear motor stator 11 is an example of the "linear motor" within the scope of protection claimed in the present invention.

[0038] As Figure 2 shown, the transfer conveying parts 3 and 4 include a conveying mechanism 20 that conveys the slider 30 in the X direction and a moving mechanism 21 that moves the conveying mechanism 20 in the Y direction. The conveying mechanism 20 has a linear motor stator 11, a position detection part 12, a control board 13, and a motor power supply board 14. The moving mechanism 21 has a guide rail and a ball screw mechanism.

[0039] As Figure 3 shown, the slider 30 includes a slider body 31, a linear motor mover 32, a guide block 33, and a magnetic scale 34. A plurality of sliders 30 are provided. In addition, the plurality of sliders 30 are configured to move independently on the conveying units 1, 2, the transfer conveying units 3 and 4, respectively.

[0040] The conveying units 1 and 2 are arranged substantially in parallel. The conveying unit 1 conveys the slider 30 in the X2 direction, and the conveying unit 2 conveys the slider 30 in the X1 direction. The conveying units 1 and 2 are fixedly arranged on the bracket. That is, the linear motor stators 11 and the guide rails 15 of the conveying units 1 and 2 are fixedly arranged.

[0041] The transfer conveying unit 3 is arranged at a position adjacent to the X2 direction side of the conveying units 1 and 2. In addition, the transfer conveying unit 4 is arranged at a position adjacent to the X1 direction side of the conveying units 1 and 2. The transfer conveying units 3 and 4 move the guide rail 15 and the linear motor stator 11 in the Y direction through the moving mechanism 21. The transfer conveying units 3 and 4 are provided for conveying the slider 30 from the conveying unit 1 (2) to the conveying unit 2 (1).

[0042] As Figure 3 shown, the linear motor stators 11 of the conveying units 1 and 2 are provided on the module body 101. In addition, the linear motor stators 11 of the transfer conveying units 3 and 4 are provided on the conveying mechanism 20 moved by the moving mechanism 21. In addition, the transfer conveying units 3 and 4 and the conveying units 1 and 2 may only have different lengths, for example. In this case, the linear motor stators 11 of the transfer conveying units 3 and 4 may also be provided on the module body 101 in the same manner as the conveying units 1 and 2.

[0043] Here, since the linear motor stator 11, the position detection unit 12, the control substrate 13, and the motor power supply substrate 14 have the same structure in the conveying units 1, ...... Figure 3 shown, the electromagnets of the linear motor stator 11 are arranged such that the cores extend along the Y direction.

[0044] The position detection unit 12 is arranged to face the magnetic scale 34 provided on the slider 30 in the Y direction. The position detection unit 12 is configured to detect the magnetism of the magnetic scale 34 to detect the position of the slider 30. The position of the slider 30 detected by the position detection unit 12 is used for the feedback control of the movement of the slider 30.

[0045] The control substrate 13 is configured to be provided on the module main body 101 and control the drive of the linear motor stator 11. Specifically, the control substrate 13 controls the power (current) supplied to the linear motor stator 11 via the motor power supply substrate 14 based on a control signal from the control device 40. As Figure 5 shown, the control substrate 13 is configured to be able to transmit and receive signals with the control device 40 via the terminals 131, the wirings 41, 42. In addition, the control substrate 13 is supplied with power from the control power supply 80 via the first wiring 13a, the first terminals 132, and the first electric wires 81, 82. That is, the first wiring 13a supplies power to the control substrate 13.

[0046] The motor power supply substrate 14 is configured to supply power to the linear motor stator 11. As Figure 5 shown, the motor power supply substrate 14 is supplied with power from the motor power supply 90 via the second wirings 14a, 14b, the second terminals 141, 141a, 141b, and the second electric wires 91, 92. That is, the second electric wires 91, 92 supply power to the motor power supply substrate 14.

[0047] The guide rails 15 are arranged to extend along the conveying direction (X direction) of the sliders 30 of the conveying units 1 and 2. A pair of guide rails 15 are provided in parallel along the Y direction. The guide blocks 33 of the sliders 30 are engaged with the guide rails 15 so as to be movable in the X direction.

[0048] The cover 16 is provided to cover the upper sides of the linear motor stator 11, the position detection unit 12, and the guide rails 15. That is, the cover 16 is provided so that the upper sides of the linear motor stator 11, the position detection unit 12, and the guide rails 15 are not exposed even when there is no slider 30.

[0049] Here, in the present embodiment, the control substrate 13, the motor power supply substrate 14, the first wiring 13a, and the second wiring 14a (14b) are built in the module main body 101. Specifically, as Figure 3 shown, the control substrate 13, the motor power supply substrate 14, the first wiring 13a, and the second wiring 14a (14b) are arranged in the space between the module main body 101 and the bracket. That is, the control substrate 13, the motor power supply substrate 14, the first wiring 13a, and the second wiring 14a (14b) are arranged below the linear motor stator 11, the position detection unit 12, and the guide rails 15. Thereby, the first wiring 13a and the second wiring 14a (14b) can be built in along the laid conveying modules 10a, 10b. In addition, only the required power can be introduced into the conveying modules 10a, 10b. Further, by using the conveying modules 10a, 10b themselves as power paths, the electric wires from the external system to the conveying modules 10a, 10b can be made the shortest. Since the electric wires outside the conveying modules 10a, 10b can be shortened, it is possible to be less affected by external noise and the like.

[0050] The slider body 31 is configured to place the object to be conveyed. In addition, as Figure 3 shown, the slider body 31 is arranged to surround the conveying portions 1 and 2 with the cover 16 when viewed from the conveying direction (X direction). A linear motor mover 32, a guide block 33, and a magnetic scale 34 are mounted on the slider body 31.

[0051] The linear motor mover 32 is arranged to sandwich the linear motor stator 11 in the Y direction. The linear motor mover 32 includes a plurality of permanent magnets arranged along the conveying direction (X direction).

[0052] The guide block 33 is guided by the guide rail 15 to perform a sliding movement. The guide block 33 has a plurality of balls that move and circulate along the moving direction.

[0053] The magnetic scale 34 is magnetized in a predetermined pattern along the conveying direction (X direction).

[0054] The control device 40 is configured to control each part of the conveying device 100. The control device 40 controls the power supplied to the linear motor stator 11 of the conveying device 100, and controls the movement of the slider 30. In addition, the control device 40 controls the driving of the moving mechanism 21 of the transfer conveying portions 3 and 4, and controls the movement of the conveying mechanism 20. The control device 40 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and the like.

[0055] The connection member 50 connects adjacent conveying modules 10a, 10b in a manner capable of transmitting signals. Specifically, as Figure 5 shown, the connection member 50 connects the terminals 131 of the adjacent conveying modules 10b to each other. The terminal 131 is configured to be able to insert the connection member 50 and connect the connection member 50. In addition, the terminal 131 is configured to be able to connect the wirings 41, 42. In addition, the connection member 50 is provided separately from the conveying modules 10a, 10b.

[0056] Here, in the present embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the first display 60 is provided on each of the plurality of conveying modules 10a, 10b. In addition, the first display 60 is configured to display the states of the conveying modules 10a, 10b. The first display 60 is disposed on a side surface portion on one side (Y2 direction side) of the side surfaces of the respective conveying modules 10a, 10b that extend along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30.

[0057] As Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the connecting member 50 is provided with a second display 51 that shows the states of the respective conveying modules 10a and 10b. The second display 51 is disposed on the side surface portion on the other side (Y1 direction side) of the side surfaces of the respective conveying modules 10a and 10b that extend along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. That is, the second display 51 is disposed on the side surface portion of the conveying modules 10a and 10b on the side opposite to the first display 60 in the Y direction.

[0058] The connecting member 50 includes an inclined surface 52 that slopes downward from the conveying modules 10a and 10b toward the outside (Y1 direction side). The second display 51 is disposed on the inclined surface 52.

[0059] As Figure 3 shown, the connecting member 50 includes a substrate 53 having a circuit path for transmitting signals. The substrate 53 is connected between the conveying modules 10a and 10b and the transfer conveying portions 3 and 4 in a manner capable of communicating control signals. In addition, a light source 512 (e.g., an LED) is provided on the substrate 53. The light emitted from the light source 512 is guided to the second display 51 by an optical guide 511. The substrate 53 is built into the connecting member 50. In addition, only circuits for communication and the light source 512 are formed on the substrate 53.

[0060] As Figure 4 shown, a pair (two sets) of second displays 51 are provided on the connecting member 50 in a manner corresponding to both of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b connected to the connecting member 50. In addition, one of the pair (two sets) of second displays 51 shows the state of one of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b. In addition, one of the pair (two sets) of second displays 51 is disposed on a portion of the connecting member 50 on one conveying module side. The other of the pair (two sets) of second displays 51 shows the state of the other of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b. In addition, the other of the pair (two sets) of second displays 51 is disposed on a portion of the connecting member 50 on the other conveying module side.

[0061] The first display 60 and the second display 51 each include an indicator that displays the status of the conveying modules 10a and 10b by lighting, flashing, or color of light. Additionally, two of each are provided for each group for the first display 60 (second display 51). The first display 60 (second display 51) includes a display showing the power status of the conveying modules 10a and 10b and a display showing the control status. Additionally, the first display 60 (second display 51) is configured to show the status of the conveying modules 10a and 10b by the lighting state (extinguished, lit, flashing) of light and the color of light (green, yellow, red, etc.). Additionally, the first display 60 (second display 51) is configured to show the status of the conveying modules 10a and 10b such as the normal state of the conveying modules 10a and 10b, the state where an error has occurred in the conveying modules 10a and 10b, the standby state, the state where standby is completed, etc. Additionally, the first display 60 (second display 51) is configured to show whether the slider is in a controlled (operating) state when the conveying device 100 is normal. Additionally, the first display 60 (second display 51) is configured to show the status of the conveying modules 10a and 10b such as the state of being ready for operation with the servo off and the motor power off, the state where standby for operation is completed with the servo off, etc.

[0062] As Figure 5 shown, the conveying modules 10a and 10b and the conveying mechanism 20 are provided with a plurality of first terminals 132 that are electrically paralleled. The plurality of first terminals 132 are connected to the first wiring 13a and are arranged on the side surfaces of the module body 101 at different positions along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. Specifically, in the conveying modules 10a and 10b and the conveying mechanism 20, the first terminals 132 are provided at two locations near one end and near the other end in the conveying direction (X direction). Since the two first terminals 132 do not have polarity, either one can be made an input terminal. Additionally, the non-input terminal side can be used as an output terminal.

[0063] The long-sized conveying module 10a is provided with two control boards 13 and two motor power supply boards 14. The two control boards 13 of the conveying module 10a are connected in a manner capable of communicating signals. Additionally, it is configured to supply power to the two control boards 13 from the common first terminal 132.

[0064] It is configured to supply power to the two motor power supply boards 14 of the conveying module 10a from the second wiring lines 14a and 14b which are independently arranged. A plurality of second terminals 141a connected in parallel are connected to the second wiring line 14a, and the plurality of second terminals 141a are arranged on the side surfaces of different positions of the module main body 101 along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. A plurality of second terminals 141b connected in parallel are connected to the second wiring line 14b, and the plurality of second terminals 141b are arranged on the side surfaces of different positions of the module main body 101 along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30.

[0065] By preparing a plurality of second terminals 141a and 141b in the long-sized conveying module 10a, it is possible to cope with the situation where the slider 30 travels densely and the situation where the conveying module 10a requires a plurality of power sources. Thus, the insufficient power capacity can be eliminated. On the other hand, in the case where large power is not required, it can be coped with by connecting the second terminals 141a and 141b with wires. Thus, wiring saving can be achieved.

[0066] One control board 13 and one motor power supply board 14 are provided in each of the conveying module 10b and the conveying mechanism 20. It is configured to supply power to the control board 13 from the common first terminal 132 via the first wiring line 13a. It is configured to supply power to the motor power supply board 14 from the common second terminal 141 via the second wiring line 14a.

[0067] The control device 40 is connected to the control boards 13 of the conveying modules 10a and 10b and the conveying mechanism 20 through the wirings 41 and 42 capable of communicating control signals. Specifically, the control device 40 is connected to one terminal 131 of the conveying mechanism 20 of the transfer conveying unit 4 through the wiring 41. The other terminal 131 of the conveying mechanism 20 of the transfer conveying unit 4 is connected to one terminal 131 of the conveying module 10a through the wiring 42. The other terminal 131 of the conveying module 10a is connected to one terminal 131 of one conveying module 10b of the conveying unit 2 through the wiring 42. The other terminal 131 of one conveying module 10b of the conveying unit 2 is connected to one terminal 131 of the other conveying module 10b of the conveying unit 2 through the connecting member 50. The other terminal 131 of the other conveying module 10b of the conveying unit 2 is connected to one terminal 131 of the conveying mechanism 20 of the transfer conveying unit 3 through the wiring 42.

[0068] The control power supply 80 is provided with one and is configured to supply power to the control boards 13 of the transfer modules 10a, 10b and the transfer mechanism 20 respectively. The control power supply 80 is connected to a first terminal 132 of the transfer mechanism 20 of the transfer unit 4 through a first wire 81. In addition, the control power supply 80 is connected to a first terminal 132 of one of the transfer modules 10a through the first wire 81. In addition, the control power supply 80 is connected to a first terminal 132 of one of the transfer modules 10b of the transfer unit 2 through the first wire 81. Another first terminal 132 of one of the transfer modules 10b of the transfer unit 2 is connected to a first terminal 132 of another transfer module 10b of the transfer unit 2 through a first wire 82. Another first terminal 132 of another transfer module 10b of the transfer unit 2 is connected to a first terminal 132 of the transfer mechanism 20 of the transfer unit 3 through a first wire 82.

[0069] The motor power supplies 90 are provided with three and are configured to supply power to the motor power supply boards 14 of the transfer modules 10a, 10b and the transfer mechanism 20 respectively. The first motor power supply 90 is connected to another second terminal 141 of the transfer mechanism 20 of the transfer unit 4 through a second wire 91. In addition, the first motor power supply 90 is connected to another second terminal 141a of the transfer module 10a through the second wire 91. The second motor power supply 90 is connected to a second terminal 141b of the transfer module 10a through the second wire 91. The third motor power supply 90 is connected to a second terminal 141 of one of the transfer modules 10b of the transfer unit 2 through the second wire 91. Another second terminal 141 of one of the transfer modules 10b of the transfer unit 2 is connected to a second terminal 141 of another transfer module 10b of the transfer unit 2 through a second wire 92. Another second terminal 141 of another transfer module 10b of the transfer unit 2 is connected to a second terminal 141 of the transfer mechanism 20 of the transfer unit 3 through a second wire 92.

[0070] As Figure 4 shown, the connecting member 70 is independently provided with respect to the connecting member 50 and is configured to position and connect adjacent transfer modules 10b (10a) respectively. Specifically, the connecting member 70 is fixed to the bracket provided with the conveying device 100 in a positioned state. The connecting member 70 is arranged at the connecting position of the transfer module 10b (10a), the end position on the side of the transfer unit 3, and the end position on the side of the transfer unit 4. Thus, even when the transfer module 10b (10a) is removed from the bracket for maintenance or the like, the connecting member 70 fixed to the bracket remains. Therefore, the transfer module 10b (10a) can be positioned again by using the connecting member 70 and installed on the bracket.

[0071] A connecting member 70 that positions and connects adjacent conveying modules 10b (10a), first electric wires 81 and 82 that are connected to a first terminal 132 and supply power to a control substrate 13, second electric wires 91 and 92 that are connected to second terminals 141, 141a, and 141b and supply power to a motor power substrate 14, and a connecting member 50 are configured to be detachable from the conveying modules 10a and 10b independently of each other.

[0072] (Effects of the present embodiment)

[0073] In the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0074] In the present embodiment, as described above, a first display 60 that displays the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b is provided for each of the plurality of conveying modules 10a and 10b. Thus, in the case where an abnormality or the like occurs in the conveying module 10a, the abnormality or the like can be notified by the first display 60 provided in the conveying module 10a, and in the case where an abnormality or the like occurs in the conveying module 10b, the abnormality or the like can be notified by the first display 60 provided in the conveying module 10b. Therefore, it is possible to easily determine in which of the conveying modules 10a and 10b an abnormality or the like has occurred. As a result, in a conveying device including a plurality of conveying modules 10a and 10b, in the case where an abnormality or the like occurs, it is possible to easily identify the location where the abnormality or the like has occurred.

[0075] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the first display 60 is disposed on a side surface portion (on the Y2 direction side) of one side of each of the conveying modules 10a and 10b that extends along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. Thus, the first display 60 can be easily confirmed from the side of the conveying modules 10a and 10b.

[0076] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, a second display 51 that displays the states of the respective conveying modules 10a and 10b is disposed on a side surface portion of the other side (on the Y1 direction side) of each of the conveying modules 10a and 10b that extends along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. Thus, the first display 60 can be confirmed from one side of the conveying modules 10a and 10b, and the second display 51 can be confirmed from the other side of the conveying modules 10a and 10b. Therefore, the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b can be confirmed from both sides of the conveying modules 10a and 10b.

[0077] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the connecting member 50 includes an inclined surface 52 that slopes downward and outward from the conveying modules 10a and 10b, and the second display 51 is disposed on the inclined surface 52. Thereby, the second display 51 disposed on the inclined surface can be easily confirmed from an obliquely upper position, and thus the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b can be easily confirmed.

[0078] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, a pair of second displays 51 are provided on the connecting member 50 in such a manner as to respectively correspond to both of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b connected by the connecting member 50. Thereby, the states of both of the adjacent conveying modules can be confirmed at the connection portion of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b.

[0079] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, one of the pair of second displays 51 displays the state of one of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b and is disposed on a portion of the connecting member 50 on one conveying module side, and the other of the pair of second displays 51 displays the state of the other of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b and is disposed on a portion of the connecting member 50 on the other conveying module side. Thereby, at the connection portion of the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b, it is easy to determine which one of the adjacent conveying modules has an abnormality or the like.

[0080] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, each of the first display 60 and the second display 51 includes an indicator that displays the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b by lighting, flashing, or color of light. Thereby, by changing the color, lighting mode, flashing mode, etc. of the light according to the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b and displaying them on the indicator, the states of the conveying modules 10a and 10b can be easily confirmed.

[0081] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the control substrate 13 that is provided on the module main body 101 and controls the driving of the linear motor, the motor power supply substrate 14 that supplies power to the linear motor, the first wiring 13a that supplies power to the control substrate 13, and the second wirings 14a and 14b that supply power to the motor power supply substrate 14 are built in the module main body 101. Thereby, the first wiring 13a that supplies power to the control substrate 13 and the second wirings 14a and 14b that supply power to the motor power supply substrate 14 can be separately built in the module main body 101, and thus the first wiring 13a and the second wirings 14a and 14b can be set according to the required power of the control substrate 13 and the motor power supply substrate 14 respectively.

[0082] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, a plurality of first terminals 132 connected in electrical parallel are provided in the conveying modules 10a and 10b. The plurality of first terminals 132 are connected to the first wiring 13a and are arranged on the side faces of different positions of the module main body 101 along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. Thus, since the polarities of the input and output of the plurality of first terminals 132 can be eliminated, any of the first terminals 132 can be made an input terminal and the other first terminals 132 can be made output terminals. As a result, the degree of freedom in arranging the wiring connected to the first terminals 132 can be increased, and thus the lengthening of the wiring connected to the first terminals 132 can be suppressed.

[0083] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, a plurality of second wirings 14a and 14b are provided independently of each other in the conveying module 10a, and a plurality of second terminals 141a and 141b connected in electrical parallel are provided in the conveying module 10a. The plurality of second terminals 141a and 141b are connected to the second wirings 14a and 14b and are arranged on the side faces of different positions of the module main body 101 along the conveying direction (X direction) of the slider 30. Thus, even when the conveying module 10a is lengthened, power can be supplied to the plurality of second wirings 14a and 14b respectively according to the length. In addition, since the polarities of the input and output of the plurality of second terminals 141a and 141b can be eliminated, any of the second terminals 141a and 141b can be made an input terminal and the other second terminals 141a and 141b can be made output terminals. As a result, the degree of freedom in arranging the wiring connected to the second terminals 141a and 141b can be increased, and thus the lengthening of the wiring connected to the second terminals 141a and 141b can be suppressed.

[0084] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the connecting members 70 that respectively position and connect the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b, the first electric wires 81 and 82 that are connected to the first terminals 132 and supply power to the control substrate 13, the second electric wires 91 and 92 that are connected to the second terminals 141, 141a, and 141b and supply power to the motor power substrate 14, and the connecting member 50 are configured to be able to be detached and attached to and from the conveying modules 10a and 10b independently of each other. Thus, when replacing the first electric wires 81 and 82, the second electric wires 91 and 92, or the connecting member 50, the detachment and attachment can be performed independently of the connecting member 70 that positions the adjacent conveying modules 10a and 10b, and thus it is not necessary to remove the connecting member 70. As a result, it is not necessary to reposition the conveying modules 10a and 10b that have been positioned once.

[0085] In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the connection member 50 includes a substrate 53 having a circuit path for transmitting signals. As a result, the structure of the connection member 50 can be simplified, and thus the probability of occurrence of a failure can be suppressed. As a result, maintenance of the connection member 50 can be easily performed.

[0086] (Modification example)

[0087] In addition, it should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not shown by the description of the above embodiments, but is shown by the scope of claims for the invention, and includes all changes (modification examples) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for the invention.

[0088] For example, in the above embodiment, an example of a structure in which one control power source for supplying power to the control substrate is provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, a plurality of control power sources for supplying power to the control substrate may also be provided.

[0089] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example of a structure in which three motor power sources for supplying power to the motor power substrate are provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, one, two, or four or more motor power sources may be provided corresponding to the length of the module or the number of sliders. In addition, one, two, or four or more motor power sources may be provided corresponding to the rated current of the motor.

[0090] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example of a structure in which two first terminals electrically connected in parallel are provided with respect to one first wiring is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, three or more first terminals electrically connected in parallel may also be provided with respect to one first wiring.

[0091] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example of a structure in which two second terminals electrically connected in parallel are provided with respect to one second wiring is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, three or more second terminals electrically connected in parallel may also be provided with respect to one second wiring.

[0092] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example of a structure in which two independent second wirings are provided with respect to one long-sized conveying module 10a is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, three or more independent second wirings may also be provided with respect to one conveying module.

[0093] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which one first wiring is provided for one transfer module is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, two or more independent first wirings may be provided for one transfer module. Further, a plurality of first wirings and second wirings may be provided independently, or only one of the first wiring and the second wiring may be provided independently in a plurality.

[0094] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the moving mechanism of the transfer unit moves the linear motor and the guide rail in the horizontal direction is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the moving mechanism of the transfer unit may also be a structure that moves the linear motor and the guide rail in the vertical direction.

[0095] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the moving mechanism of the transfer unit translates the linear motor and the guide rail is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the moving mechanism of the transfer unit may also be a structure that rotates and moves the linear motor and the guide rail.

[0096] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the connection member includes a substrate having a circuit path for transmitting signals is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the connection member may also be a structure including a wire for transmitting signals. Further, the connection member may also have a circuit path for transmitting signals other than the substrate and the wire.

[0097] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the transfer unit 1 includes one transfer module and the transfer unit 2 includes two transfer modules is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the transfer unit may also include three or more transfer modules. Further, a plurality of long transfer modules 10a may be linearly connected.

[0098] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the first display and the second display for displaying the state of the transfer module are provided in a set of two is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the first display and the second display may also be provided in a set of one or in a set of three or more.

[0099] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a structure in which the control substrate and the motor power supply substrate are separately provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the control substrate and the motor power supply substrate may also be a substrate in which a control circuit and a motor power supply circuit are formed on a common substrate. In this case, power is supplied from the first wiring to the control circuit as a part of the control substrate, and power is supplied from the second wiring to the motor power supply circuit as a part of the motor power supply substrate.

[0100] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example of the structure in which the second display is provided on the inclined surface of the connecting member is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the second display may also be disposed on the upper surface or side surface of the connecting member. Further, in order to easily confirm the second display, it is preferable to dispose the second display on the inclined surface.

[0101] Reference Numeral Explanation

[0102] 1, 2 Conveyor sections;

[0103] 10a, 10b Conveyor modules;

[0104] 11 Linear motor stator (linear motor);

[0105] 13 Control board;

[0106] 13a First wiring;

[0107] 14 Motor power supply board;

[0108] 14a, 14b Second wiring;

[0109] 30 Slider;

[0110] 50 Connecting member;

[0111] 51 Second display;

[0112] 52 Inclined surface;

[0113] 53 Board;

[0114] 60 First display;

[0115] 70 Connecting member;

[0116] 81, 82 First electric wires;

[0117] 91, 92 Second electric wires;

[0118] 100 Conveying device;

[0119] 101 Module main body;

[0120] 132 First terminal;

[0121] 141, 141a, 141b Second terminals.

Claims

1. A conveying device, comprising: A slider; A conveying unit including a plurality of conveying modules configured to convey the slider; A connecting member, separated from the conveying module and configured to connect the adjacent conveying modules in a manner capable of transmitting signals; and A first display, configured to correspond to each of the plurality of conveying modules and configured to display the state of the conveying module including at least one of the following: the state of the power supply of the conveying module, the state that the state of the conveying module is normal, the state in which an error has occurred in the conveying module, a ready state, and a ready-completed state, Among them, The first display is provided on one side surface of each of the side surfaces of the conveying module extending along the conveying direction of the slider; and The connecting member is provided on the other side surface of each of the side surfaces of the conveying module extending along the conveying direction of the slider.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein Each of the conveying modules includes: a module main body; a linear motor located in the module main body; a control substrate located in the module main body and controlling the driving of the linear motor; a motor power supply substrate configured to supply power to the linear motor; a first wiring configured to supply power to the control substrate; and a second wiring configured to supply power to the motor power supply substrate, The control substrate, the motor power supply substrate, the first wiring, and the second wiring are built in the module main body.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein The connecting member includes a wire for transmitting signals or a substrate having a circuit path for transmitting signals.

4. A conveying device, comprising: A slider; A conveying unit including a plurality of conveying modules configured to convey the slider; A connecting member, separated from the conveying module and configured to connect the adjacent conveying modules in a manner capable of transmitting signals; A first display, configured to correspond to each of the plurality of conveying modules and configured to display the state of the conveying module, the first display being located on one side surface of each of the side surfaces of the conveying module extending along the conveying direction of the slider; and A second display, the second display being located in the connecting member to display the state of each of the conveying modules, the second display being located on the other side surface of each of the side surfaces of the conveying module extending along the conveying direction of the slider.

5. The conveying device according to claim 4, wherein The connecting member includes an inclined surface that slopes downward from the conveying module toward the outside, The second display is located on the inclined surface.

6. The conveying device according to claim 4, wherein The second display includes a pair of second displays in the connecting member in a manner corresponding to both of the adjacent conveying modules connected by the connecting member.

7. The conveying device according to claim 6, wherein One of the pair of second displays is configured to display the state of one of the conveying modules adjacent to each other, and a portion on the side of one of the conveying modules of the connecting member. The other of the pair of second displays is configured to display the state of the other of the adjacent conveying modules, and a portion on the side of the other of the conveying modules of the connecting member.

8. The conveying device according to claim 4, wherein each of the first display and the second display includes an indicator that displays the state of the conveying module by lighting, flashing, or color of light.

9. A conveying device comprising: a slider; a conveying unit including a plurality of conveying modules configured to convey the slider; a connecting member separated from the conveying modules and configured to connect the adjacent conveying modules in a manner capable of signal transmission; and a first display configured to correspond to each of the plurality of conveying modules and configured to display the state of the conveying module, wherein Each of the conveying modules includes: a module body; a linear motor located in the module body; a control substrate located in the module body and controlling the driving of the linear motor; a motor power supply substrate supplying power to the linear motor; a first wiring configured to supply power to the control substrate; and a second wiring configured to supply power to the motor power supply substrate, and a plurality of first terminals in electrical parallel, the plurality of first terminals connecting the first wiring and located on side faces of different positions of the module body along the conveying direction of the slider, and the control substrate, the motor power supply substrate, the first wiring, and the second wiring are built in the module body.

10. The conveying device according to claim 9, wherein the second wiring includes a plurality of second wirings independent of each other in the conveying module, each of the conveying modules further includes a plurality of second terminals in electrical parallel, the plurality of second terminals connecting the second wiring and located on side faces of different positions of the module body along the conveying direction of the slider.

11. The conveying device according to claim 10, further comprising: a connecting member that positions and connects the adjacent conveying modules respectively, a first wire connected to the first terminal and supplying power to the control substrate, a second wire connected to the second terminal and supplying power to the motor power supply substrate, the connecting member, and the connecting member are configured to be detachably attached to and detached from the conveying module independently of each other.

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