Component mounting system and mount feeder

Abstract

A component mounting system is provided with: a plurality of component mounting machines which respectively hold component mounting tools used for mounting components on a substrate so as to be automatically replaceable at predetermined replacement positions in the machines, and which are arranged side by side to constitute a production line for substrate products; a transport device that transports the component mounting material between a storage area where the component mounting material is stored and the replacement position of the component mounting machine and between the replacement positions of the component mounting machines outside the component mounting machine or inside the machine other than the replacement positions; and a plan generation unit that generates a transfer plan for the component mounting material by the transfer device on the basis of a production plan indicating the type and production order of the substrate product and preparation information or maintenance information. The preparation information indicates, for each type of the substrate product, the type and number of the component mounting members used by each of the plurality of component mounting machines, and the maintenance information indicates the maintenance time of the component mounting members.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present specification relates to a component mounting system including a plurality of component mounting machines constituting a production line for substrate products and a mounting member feeder applicable to the component mounting system. Background Art

[0002] The technology of mass-producing substrate products by performing substrate operations on substrates formed with circuit patterns is becoming popular. Moreover, a plurality of substrate operation machines are usually arranged side by side to form a production line for substrate products. As a representative example of a substrate operation machine, there is a component mounting machine that mounts components on a substrate. Many component mounting machines use suction nozzles as component mounting parts used in the installation of components. According to each type of substrate product, the types and sizes of components to be installed are different, so the component mounting machine replaces and uses a plurality of suction nozzles that are suitable for the sizes of various components. A technology has been developed to set an automatic nozzle replacement function in a component mounting machine and a production line, and related technical examples are disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 4.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a component mounting machine, which comprises: an in-machine nozzle station that accommodates nozzles and is arranged within the moving range of a mounting head; a nozzle replacement unit that accommodates nozzles and is replaceably arranged on a feeder setting portion; and a control device that selects and executes automatic replacement of nozzles between the mounting head and the in-machine nozzle station and automatic replacement of nozzles between the mounting head and the nozzle replacement unit. In addition, a management system for a component mounting line is disclosed, which comprises: an automatic replacement device that automatically replaces the nozzle replacement unit through the feeder setting portions of a plurality of component mounting machines constituting the component mounting line; and a production management device that uses the automatic replacement device to set an empty nozzle replacement unit existing in the line when an empty nozzle replacement unit is required from one of the component mounting machines. In this way, it is possible to avoid the enlargement of the in-machine nozzle station and the nozzle replacement unit and the increase in the number of units to be installed, and it is possible to cope with the increase in the number of nozzles for replacement while meeting the requirements of space saving.

[0004] In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a cassette nozzle replacement unit as one form of the nozzle replacement unit. In addition, Patent Document 3 discloses a component supply device that replaces a part tray containing electronic components with a tool tray containing component holding tools (nozzles) and supplies the components to a component supply position. In addition, Patent Document 4 discloses a nozzle cleaning device that receives an in-machine nozzle station removed from a component mounting machine and performs nozzle maintenance.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6870070

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 6037581

[0009] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-91795

[0010] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-74447 Summary of the invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] However, in the component mounting machine of Patent Document 1, it is preferred to accommodate the suction nozzles in multiple locations (in-machine nozzle stations and nozzle replacement units) so as to cope with the increase in the number of replacement nozzles. The technical examples of Patent Documents 2 and 3 are also based on the same technical idea. However, in general, the suction nozzles need to be replaced every time the type of substrate product is changed, and the replacement frequency tends to be high, especially in a production method of multi-variety and small-scale production. Therefore, in order to cope with the increase in the number of suction nozzles, it is necessary not only to strengthen the device structure, but also to improve the operation technology that can plan and efficiently use a limited number of suction nozzles. In addition, timely maintenance of the suction nozzles is important in terms of efficient operation and maintenance of installation reliability.

[0013] Therefore, in this specification, the problem to be solved is to provide a component mounting system that can generate a transport plan for planned transport and efficient use of component mounting parts on a production line of a substrate product, and to provide a mounting part feeder that can be applied to the component mounting system and can supply component mounting parts in a replaceable manner.

[0014] Means for solving problems

[0015] The present specification discloses a component mounting system comprising: a plurality of component mounting machines, each of which holds component mounting parts used for mounting components on a substrate in a manner that allows automatic replacement at a predetermined replacement position in the machine, and is arranged side by side to form a production line for substrate products; a conveying device, which is outside the component mounting machine or inside the machine except for the replacement position, and conveys the component mounting parts between a storage area for storing the component mounting parts and the replacement position of the component mounting machine and between the replacement positions of each of the plurality of component mounting machines; and a plan generating unit, which generates a conveying plan for the component mounting parts by the conveying device based on a production plan indicating the type and production sequence of the substrate products and preparation information or maintenance information, the preparation information indicating the type and quantity of the component mounting parts used by each of the plurality of component mounting machines according to each type of the substrate products, and the maintenance information indicating the maintenance period of the component mounting parts.

[0016] In addition, this specification discloses the technical idea of ​​changing the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 1 or 2" to the "component mounting system described in any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 5" in Technical Solution 6 at the time of the application, the technical idea of ​​changing the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6" to the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6 or 7" in Technical Solution 8 at the time of the application, the technical idea of ​​changing the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6" to the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6 or 7" in Technical Solution 10 at the time of the application, the technical idea of ​​changing the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6" to the "component mounting system described in any one of Technical Solutions 6 to 11" in Technical Solution 12 at the time of the application, and the technical idea of ​​changing the "component mounting system described in Technical Solution 6" to the "component mounting system described in any one of Technical Solutions 6 to 12" in Technical Solution 13 at the time of the application.

[0017] In addition, the present specification discloses a mounting part feeder comprising: a mounting part holding unit capable of detachably holding a component mounting part used by a component mounting machine to mount components on a substrate, and having the same structure as a mounting part station configured inside the component mounting machine and capable of automatically replacing a predetermined first replacement position of the component mounting part; and a mounting part capable of detachably mounting on the component mounting machine in such a manner that the mounting part holding unit is configured at a predetermined second replacement position inside the machine.

[0018] Moreover, the present specification discloses a mounting component feeder, comprising: a mounting component holding unit, which can detachably hold a component mounting component used by a component mounting machine to mount components on a substrate; a storage bin, which accommodates a plurality of the mounting component holding units; a replacement mechanism, which selectively takes out the mounting component holding unit from the storage bin and arranges it at a predetermined replacement position inside the component mounting machine that can automatically replace the component mounting component; and a mounting portion, which is mounted on the component mounting machine.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] In the disclosed component mounting system, the plan generation unit generates a transport plan for the suction nozzle based on the production plan and preparation information or maintenance information of the substrate product. As a result, the component mounting system can generate a transport plan that plans to transport the component mounting parts of the types and quantities required by the production line, or to transport the component mounting parts that are due for maintenance in a timely manner and use them efficiently. In addition, the disclosed mounting part feeder can be applied to the component mounting machine that constitutes the component mounting system, and can supply the component mounting parts in a replaceable manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 It is a plan view showing an example of the overall structure of a component mounting machine constituting a production line for substrate products.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a side view of a tape feeder that can be detachably mounted on a component mounting machine.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a suction nozzle as one form of a component mounting tool.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a nozzle feeder (mounting material feeder) that can be detachably mounted on a component mounting machine and supplies a suction nozzle (component mounting material).

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of a nozzle holding unit (mounting member holding unit) included in a nozzle feeder.

[0026] Figure 6 It is a side cross-sectional view showing a state where a nozzle holding unit holds a nozzle.

[0027] Figure 7 It is a perspective view schematically showing a production line and a conveying device for substrate products.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a block diagram for explaining a configuration related to control of the component mounting system according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining the operation flow of the component mounting system.

[0030] Fig.10 This is a diagram illustrating a list of production plans and preparation information acquired by a plan generation unit.

[0031] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining a schematic transport plan generated by the plan generating unit.

[0032] Fig.12 This is a diagram for explaining a detailed transport plan generated by the plan generating unit.

[0033] Fig.13 This is a perspective view of a nozzle feeder as an application example.

[0034] Fig.14 It is a perspective view schematically showing the structure of a component mounting system according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] 1. Example of overall structure of component mounting machine 93

[0036] First, refer to Figure 1The overall configuration example of the component mounting machine 93 constituting the component mounting system 1 of the first embodiment will be described. The component mounting machine 93 performs a mounting operation of mounting components on the substrate K. Figure 1 The horizontal direction from the left side of the paper to the right side is the X-axis direction of the conveying substrate K, the horizontal direction from the lower side (front side) of the paper to the upper side (rear side) of the paper is the Y-axis direction, and the vertical direction is the Z-axis direction. The component mounting machine 93 is composed of a substrate conveying device 2, a component supply device 3, a component transfer device 4 and a control device 5 (see Figure 8 ) etc. are assembled on a base 10.

[0037] The substrate conveying device 2 is composed of a pair of guide rails 21, a pair of conveying belts (not shown), and a clamping mechanism 23. The pair of guide rails 21 cross the center of the upper surface of the base 10 and extend in the conveying direction (X-axis direction), and are assembled to the base 10 in parallel with each other. The pair of conveying belts rotate along the guide rails 21 while carrying the parallel sides of the substrate K, and convey the substrate K to a stop position near the center of the base 10. The clamping mechanism 23 pushes up the conveyed substrate K, clamps it between the guide rails 21, and positions it. After the component installation operation performed by the component transfer device 4 is completed, the clamping mechanism 23 releases the substrate K, and the conveying belt conveys the substrate K to the outside of the machine.

[0038] The component supply device 3 is arranged at the front part of the upper surface of the base 10 in the Y-axis direction. The component supply device 3 is composed of a pallet table 31 and a plurality of tape feeders 33. The pallet table 31 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above. The pallet table 31 has a plurality of slots 32 that are separated from each other and extend in parallel along the Y-axis direction. The plurality of tape feeders 33 are respectively inserted into the slots 32 and can be installed detachably. The tape feeder 33 feeds a carrier tape containing a plurality of components in a row toward a supply position 36 at the rear, and supplies components in a manner that can be picked up at the supply position 36. Details of the tape feeder 33 will be described later. In addition, component feeders other than the tape feeder 33, such as a tray feeder using a tray that stores a plurality of components in a two-dimensional grid shape, and a rod feeder using a cylindrical rod that stores a plurality of components in a row, can also be detachably installed on the pallet table 31.

[0039] The component transfer device 4 is composed of a Y-axis moving body 41, an X-axis moving body 42, a mounting head 43, a nozzle tool 44, a plurality of nozzles 45, a substrate camera 46, a component camera 47 and a nozzle station 48. The Y-axis moving body 41 is formed by a component that is longer in the X-axis direction, and is driven by the Y-axis driving mechanism to move in the Y-axis direction. The X-axis moving body 42 is mounted on the Y-axis moving body 41, and is driven by the X-axis driving mechanism to move in the X-axis direction. The mounting head 43 is mounted on the front surface of the X-axis moving body 42. The mounting head 43 is driven in two horizontal directions together with the X-axis moving body 42, and moves to the top of the component supply device 3 and the top of the substrate K.

[0040] A rotationally symmetrical suction nozzle tool 44 is provided at the lower side of the mounting head 43. The suction nozzle tool 44 is driven by an R-axis driving mechanism (not shown) to rotate around the vertical center axis. The suction nozzle tool 44 has a plurality of (in the case of a plurality of) nozzles that are equidistant from the vertical center axis and can be automatically replaced. Figure 1 In the example, there are 20) suction nozzles 45. The suction nozzle 45 is raised and lowered by a lifting drive mechanism (not shown), and is driven by a Q-axis drive mechanism (not shown) to rotate around a vertical axis. The suction nozzle 45 is also selectively supplied with negative pressure air and positive pressure air from the air supply mechanism. Thus, the suction nozzle 45 performs a suction process of sucking components from the component supply device 3 and a mounting process of mounting components on the substrate K in the stop position. In addition, the mounting head 43 can also omit the suction nozzle tool 44 and arrange a plurality of suction nozzles 45 in a row, or in a grid shape. In addition, component mounting parts other than the suction nozzle 45, such as a chuck-type mounting part for holding the component, can also be provided on the mounting head 43 in a manner that can be automatically replaced.

[0041] The substrate camera 46 is arranged downwardly on the X-axis movable body 42 in parallel with the mounting head 43. The substrate camera 46 photographs the position reference mark attached to the substrate K from above. The image data obtained is subjected to image processing to accurately determine the stop position of the substrate K. The component camera 47 is arranged upward on the base 10 between the substrate conveying device 2 and the component supply device 3. The component camera 47 photographs and identifies the component held by the suction nozzle 45 from below when the mounting head 43 moves from the component supply device 3 to the substrate K. In this way, the correctness of the type of the component is determined, and the position and direction of the component relative to the suction nozzle 45 are detected and reflected in the mounting process. As the substrate camera 46 and the component camera 47, a digital imaging device having an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) and a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) can be exemplified.

[0042] The nozzle station 48 (mounting station) is detachably disposed next to the component camera 47 between the substrate conveying device 2 and the component supply device 3. The nozzle station 48 can hold a plurality of nozzles 45 in an automatically replaceable manner. The mounting head 43 automatically replaces the nozzles 45 one by one in sequence by moving to the nozzle station 48. Therefore, the mounting position of the nozzle station 48 becomes the predetermined first replacement position in the machine where the mounting head 43 automatically replaces the nozzles 45. By automatically replacing and using a plurality of nozzles 45, components of various sizes can be automatically handled. The installation and removal of the nozzle station 48 are performed by the operator when the component mounting machine 93 is not in operation.

[0043] The control device 5 is assembled on the base 10, and its arrangement position is not particularly limited. The control device 5 is composed of a computer device. In addition, the control device 5 can also be composed of a plurality of CPUs dispersedly arranged in the machine and connected by communication. The control device 5 controls the substrate conveying device 2, the component supply device 3 and the component transfer device 4 based on the installation operation data generated for each type of substrate product to perform the component installation operation. The installation operation data describes the detailed sequence of the installation operation, etc.

[0044] 2. Structure of the tape feeder 33

[0045] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the tape feeder 33 is described. The tape feeder 33 is composed of various components assembled on a frame 34 including a side plate, and is thin in the width direction (X-axis direction). The tape feeder 33 includes a frame 34, a tape feeding mechanism 35, a supply position 36, a feeder control unit 37, a protrusion 38, an upper positioning pin 39, a lower positioning pin 3A, a connector 3B, and a locking mechanism 3C.

[0046] The frame 34 includes a reel storage frame 341, a storage plate 342, and an opening and closing plate 343. The reel storage frame 341 is a plurality of components that form a large circular internal space approximately in the center of the frame 34. The reel storage frame 341 stores the reel TR in the internal space so that it can rotate freely. A storage plate 342 is installed near the lower part of the reel storage frame 341 to prevent the reel TR from escaping. An opening and closing plate 343 that can be opened and closed is installed at a position higher than the middle height of the reel storage frame 341. By opening the opening and closing plate 343, the reel TR can be taken in and out. A carrier tape that stores a plurality of components in a row is wound around the reel TR.

[0047] The tape feed mechanism 35 is provided at the upper rear portion of the frame 34. The tape feed mechanism 35 pulls out the carrier tape from the tape reel TR and feeds it toward a supply position 36 provided at the rear portion of the upper surface of the frame 34. The tape feed mechanism 35 is composed of a tape guide gear engaged with the feed hole of the carrier tape and a motor for rotationally driving the tape guide gear. The feeder control unit 37 is arranged at the lower front portion of the frame 34, and may also be arranged at other positions. The feeder control unit 37 controls the tape feed mechanism 35 and monitors the state of the locking mechanism 3C. The feeder control unit 37 is connected to the control device 5 of the component mounting machine 93 via the connector 3B for communication, and is controlled according to the instructions from the control device 5.

[0048] The protrusion 38 is provided in a manner that it protrudes downward from the bottom surface of the frame 34 and extends in the Y-axis direction. The protrusion 38 is inserted into the slot 32 of the pallet table 31, thereby installing the tape feeder 33. The upper positioning pin 39 and the lower positioning pin 3A are provided separately in the upper part of the rear surface of the frame 34. The upper positioning pin 39 and the lower positioning pin 3A are inserted into the positioning hole (not shown) of the pallet table 31 to position the tape feeder 33. The connector 3B is provided between the upper positioning pin 39 and the lower positioning pin 3A. The connector 3B is responsible for the power supply and communication connection to the tape feeder 33. When the tape feeder 33 is positioned, the connector 3B is automatically engaged with the receiving side connector (not shown) of the pallet table 31.

[0049] The locking mechanism 3C is disposed at the upper front portion of the frame 34 and is constructed using a locking component 3D having a substantially F-shaped shape. The locking component 3D has a support point 3E disposed at a substantially central position of the F-shape and supported on the frame 34 in a swingable manner. Furthermore, the locking component 3D has a locking rod 3F extending backward from the support point 3E and bent and extending upward, a manual operating rod 3G extending forward from the support point 3E, and an automatic operating rod 3H extending upward from the support point 3E. When the tape feeder 33 is installed, the locking component 3D is biased by a biasing spring 3J so as to be swung around the support point 3E. Figure 2 As a result, the locking rod 3F protrudes upward from the upper surface of the frame body 34 and is inserted into a locking hole (not shown) provided on the base 10, and the locking mechanism 3C is locked. Therefore, the removal of the tape feeder 33 is restricted.

[0050] When the operator or the transport device 7 described later inserts the tape feeder 33 into the slot 32, the locking lever 3F contacts the base 10 and automatically descends to enter the unlocked state contained in the frame 34. Thus, the locking mechanism 3C temporarily unlocks the locked state. When the operator removes the tape feeder 33, the manual operating lever 3G is operated upward to move the locking member 3D to the lower side. Figure 2 The locking mechanism 3C is released by swinging the belt feeder 33 in the clockwise direction. The conveying device 7 operates the automatic operating lever 3H when disassembling the belt feeder 33, so that the locking mechanism 3C is released. The protrusion 38, the upper positioning pin 39, the lower positioning pin 3A, the connector 3B and the locking mechanism 3C are a way to detachably mount the belt feeder 33 on the mounting portion of the component mounting machine 93. In addition, the applicant of the present application disclosed a detailed structural example of the belt feeder 33 in International Publication No. 2019 / 239474.

[0051] 3. Structure of the suction nozzle 45

[0052] Next, refer to Figure 3The structure of the suction nozzle 45 is described. The suction nozzle 45 has a main shaft 451, a flange 452, a suction nozzle shaft 454, and an identification code 455. The main shaft 451 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The flange 452 is formed in a disk shape with a larger diameter than the main shaft 451, and is connected to one end side ( Figure 3 A notch 453 that is recessed toward the center is formed at a portion of the outer periphery of the flange 452. The notch 453 is used to fix the rotation angle around the axis when the suction nozzle 45 is held on the suction nozzle tool 44, or to detect the rotation angle.

[0053] The nozzle shaft 454 is formed into a circular tube shape extending axially from the main shaft 451. The nozzle shaft 454 is a portion where the opening at the front end contacts the component for adsorption. The nozzle shaft 454 is configured to be able to move forward and backward axially relative to the main shaft 451. The nozzle shaft 454 is urged in a direction from the main shaft 451 by an elastic component (not shown). When a load toward the main shaft 451 side is applied to the front end of the nozzle shaft 454, the nozzle shaft overcomes the elastic force of the elastic component and retreats toward the inside of the main shaft 451. As a result, during adsorption processing and installation processing, the impact and load value acting on the component from the nozzle 45 are reduced.

[0054] The identification code 455 is attached to the upper surface of the flange 452. The identification code 455 uses, for example, a two-dimensional code, and contains inherent information such as the type and individual information of the suction nozzle 45. The identification code 455 is appropriately read by a code reader (not shown) and corresponds to the management information (9A, 9B) described later. In this way, the current position, current state, and usage history of the suction nozzle 45 are managed.

[0055] There are many types of suction nozzles 45 according to the size of the component to be sucked. Compared with the suction nozzle 45 for small components, the suction nozzle 45 for large components has at least a thicker suction nozzle shaft 454 and a larger opening at the front end. The various suction nozzles 45 have at least the same diameter and thickness of the flange 452, and are interchangeable in installation. In addition, the suction nozzle shaft 454 is not limited to a circular tube shape, and the opening at the front end is not limited to a circle. For example, the opening at the front end may be elliptical or gourd-shaped, and the suction nozzle shaft 454 may be formed into a tubular shape with a non-circular cross-section corresponding to the non-circular opening.

[0056] 4. Structure of nozzle feeder 6

[0057] Next, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4~Figure 6The structure of the nozzle feeder 6 is described. The nozzle feeder 6 is a type of mounting part feeder that can detachably hold a plurality of component mounting parts (suction nozzles 45) and can automatically replace the component mounting parts at the replacement position of the component mounting machine 93. The nozzle feeder 6 has a substantially similar outer shape to the tape feeder 33 except for the width dimension in the X-axis direction, and is mountably interchangeable with the tape feeder 33. That is, the nozzle feeder 6 has a width dimension that is substantially the same as the tape feeder 33, or a width dimension that is larger than the tape feeder 33 (in the X-axis direction). Figure 1 The nozzle feeder 6 is used to transport the nozzles 45 between the second replacement position of the component mounting machine 93 and the storage area (described later) and to transport the nozzles 45 between the second replacement positions of multiple component mounting machines 93.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, the nozzle feeder 6 is composed of various components assembled on a frame 61 including a side plate, and is relatively thin in the width direction (X-axis direction). The nozzle feeder 6 includes a frame 61, a nozzle holding unit 62, a lifting drive unit 63, a limiting drive unit 64, a replacement position 66, a feeder control unit 67, a protrusion, an upper positioning pin 69, a lower positioning pin, a connector, and a locking mechanism 6C.

[0059] The nozzle holding unit 62 is provided at a replacement position 66 set at the upper rear portion of the frame 61 so as to be able to be raised and lowered. The nozzle holding unit 62 is one form of a mounting member holding unit that can detachably hold a plurality of component mounting members (suction nozzles 45). Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the nozzle holding unit 62 is composed of a base 621, a bottom plate 622 and a cover plate 625. The base 621 is formed into a rectangular frame shape when viewed from above. The base 621 has a height dimension larger than the length dimension of the nozzle 45 closer to the front end side than the flange 452, and ensures a storage space for the nozzle shaft 454 of the nozzle 45 inside.

[0060] The bottom plate 622 is a form of a storage component having a plurality of storage holes arranged on a plane and capable of storing the suction nozzle 45. The bottom plate 622 is a rectangular plate-shaped component, which is mounted on the upper side of the base 621. The bottom plate 622 has a plurality of stepped storage holes 623 and a plurality of engaging pins 624. The plurality of stepped storage holes 623 are arranged on two-dimensional grid points with approximately equal separation distances, except for the portion close to the long side of the bottom plate 622. The diameter D1 of the large diameter portion of the upper portion of the stepped storage hole 623 is larger than the diameter of the flange 452 of the suction nozzle 45. In addition, the height dimension of the large diameter portion is slightly larger than the thickness of the flange 452. The diameter D2 of the small diameter portion of the lower portion of the stepped storage hole 623 is smaller than the diameter of the flange 452 and larger than the diameter of the main shaft 451. A plurality of engagement pins 624 are arranged at locations close to the long sides and the center of the bottom plate 622 and stand upward.

[0061] The cover plate 625 is a form of limiting component that limits the suction nozzle 45 stored in the stepped storage hole 623 from flying out during automatic replacement. The cover plate 625 is a plate-like component that is roughly the same shape and size as the base plate 622, and is arranged on the upper side of the base plate 622 in a slidable manner. The cover plate 625 has a plurality of limiting holes 626 and a plurality of long holes 629. The plurality of limiting holes 626 are respectively arranged on the upper side of the stepped storage hole 623. The number of stepped storage holes 623 and limiting holes 626 is set to be greater than the number of suction nozzles 45 possessed by the mounting head 43. For example, in a structure in which the mounting head 43 has 20 suction nozzles 45, the number of stepped storage holes 623 and limiting holes 626 is more than 21. Thus, the suction nozzle feeder 6 can centrally supply all the suction nozzles 45 that are automatically replaced by the mounting head 43.

[0062] The limiting hole 626 has a shape in which a large-diameter arc portion 627 and a small-diameter arc portion 628 are arranged in a row in the long side direction of the cover plate 625. The diameter D3 of the large-diameter arc portion 627 is larger than the diameter of the flange 452. The diameter D4 of the small-diameter arc portion 628 is smaller than the diameter of the flange 452 and larger than the diameter of the main body shaft 451. Regarding the limiting hole 626, even if there is a constricted portion between the large-diameter arc portion 627 and the small-diameter arc portion 628, it is sufficient as long as the opening width dimension of the constricted portion is larger than the diameter of the main body shaft 451.

[0063] The plurality of long holes 629 are formed long in the long side direction of the cover plate 625 and are respectively arranged on the upper side of the engaging pin 624. The plurality of long holes 629 are respectively engaged with each other with a gap provided so that the engaging pin 624 can move relatively. Thus, the cover plate 625 is configured to be able to slide relative to the bottom plate 622 in the long side direction. In addition, the engaging pin 624 is enlarged on the upper side where it passes through the long hole 629 to prevent the cover plate 625 from detaching upward.

[0064] The nozzle holding unit 62 is operated to be replaceable when the nozzle 45 is automatically replaced. In the replaceable state of the nozzle holding unit 62, the cover plate 625 slides and moves, and the large-diameter arc portion 627 of the limiting hole 626 overlaps with the stepped storage hole 623. Then, the flange 452 of the received nozzle 45 descends through the large-diameter arc portion 627 and is placed on the stepped portion of the stepped storage hole 623. In addition, the flange 452 of the transferred nozzle 45 rises from the stepped portion of the stepped storage hole 623 through the large-diameter arc portion 627.

[0065] On the other hand, the nozzle holding unit 62 is normally operated to restrict the held nozzle 45 from flying out, except for the automatic replacement. Figure 6 In the restricted state of the nozzle holding unit 62 shown, the cover plate 625 slides back to the original position, and the small diameter arc portion 628 of the restriction hole 626 overlaps with the stepped storage hole 623. In addition, the flange 452 is sandwiched between the small diameter portion of the stepped storage hole 623 and the peripheral edge of the small diameter arc portion 628 and is stored, thereby preventing the nozzle 45 from flying out.

[0066] like Figure 4 As shown, the lifting drive unit 63 and the limiting drive unit 64 are arranged on the front side of the nozzle holding unit 62. The lifting drive unit 63 drives the nozzle holding unit 62 to lift and lower between the replacement position on the upper side and the standby position on the lower side via a transmission mechanism whose detailed illustration is omitted. The limiting drive unit 64 drives the sliding movement of the cover plate 625 via a transmission mechanism whose detailed illustration is omitted, thereby switching the nozzle holding unit 62 between the replaceable state and the restricted state. As the lifting drive unit 63 and the limiting drive unit 64, an electric power source, such as an electromagnetic solenoid, can be used.

[0067] The lifting drive unit 63 composed of an electric power source puts the nozzle holding unit 62 in a standby position when the power is lost, thereby playing a fail-safe function. That is, even if the nozzle feeder 6 installed on the component mounting machine 93 cannot be powered due to some adverse conditions, the nozzle holding unit 62 will not rise to the replacement position, so the nozzle holding unit 62 will not interfere with the actions of other parts. In addition, the limiting drive unit 64 composed of an electric power source puts the nozzle holding unit 62 in a limited state when the power is lost, thereby playing a fail-safe function. That is, even if the nozzle feeder 6 is removed from the pallet platform 31 and is not powered, it can prevent the nozzle 45 from flying out.

[0068] The feeder control unit 67 is arranged at the front lower part of the frame 61. The feeder control unit 67 controls the lifting drive unit 63 and the limiting drive unit 64, and monitors the state of the locking mechanism 6C. The feeder control unit 67 is connected to the control device 5 of the component mounting machine 93 via a connector for communication, and controls according to the instructions from the control device 5. The protrusion, the upper positioning pin 69, the lower positioning pin, the connector and the locking mechanism 6C have the same structure as these parts of the tape feeder 33 and play the same function. Therefore, the description of these parts is omitted. The protrusion, the upper positioning pin 69, the lower positioning pin, the connector and the locking mechanism 6C are a way to detachably mount the nozzle feeder 6 on the mounting part of the component mounting machine 93.

[0069] The replacement position 66 of the nozzle feeder 6 when it is mounted on the pallet table 31 becomes the same position as the supply position 36 of the tape feeder 33 mounted on the pallet table 31. The mounting head 43 moves to the replacement position 66 of the nozzle feeder 6 and can automatically replace the nozzles 45 one by one in sequence. Therefore, the replacement position 66 of the nozzle feeder 6 mounted on the pallet table 31 becomes the predetermined second replacement position in the machine where the mounting head 43 automatically replaces the nozzles 45.

[0070] The nozzle feeder 6 mounted on the pallet table 31 raises the nozzle holding unit 62 to the replacement position when the nozzle 45 is automatically replaced. Thus, the nozzle holding unit 62 rises to a height at which the mounting head 43 is lowered and the nozzle 45 can be automatically replaced. On the other hand, the nozzle feeder 6 lowers the nozzle holding unit 62 to the standby position and waits in normal times other than when the nozzle 45 is automatically replaced. Thus, the nozzle holding unit 62 does not interfere with the mounting head 43 and the nozzle 45 that are lowered for the adsorption process.

[0071] The nozzle station 48 has the same shape as the nozzle holding unit 62 of the nozzle feeder 6 and is interchangeable. In addition, the lifting drive unit 63 and the limiting drive unit 64 that drive the nozzle station 48 are provided on the base 10. By sharing the nozzle station 48 (the nozzle holding unit 62), the lifting drive unit 63 and the limiting drive unit 64, the types of components are reduced, which is advantageous in terms of manufacturing. In addition, since the operation method, management, maintenance, etc. of the nozzle station 48 and the nozzle holding unit 62 are common, the convenience is improved.

[0072] 5. Structure of production line 9 for substrate products

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 7 The structure of the production line 9 for substrate products will be described. Figure 7As shown by the arrow on the upper left of , the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction and Z-axis direction of the production line 9 are determined by the component mounting machine 93. The production line 9 is composed of a plurality of substrate operation machines arranged in the X-axis direction. That is, the solder printing machine 91, the printing inspection machine 92, three component mounting machines 93, the substrate appearance inspection machine not shown in the figure and the reflow machine not shown in the figure are arranged in the X-axis direction. In addition, the production line structure of the production line 9 can be changed.

[0074] Each substrate operation machine performs a predetermined substrate operation on the substrate. Specifically, the solder printer 91 prints paste solder on the substrate K in a predetermined pattern shape. The print inspection machine 92 photographs and inspects the solder printing state of the substrate K. Three component mounting machines 93 pick up components from the component supply device 3 and mount them on the solder of the substrate K. The number of component mounting machines 93 is not limited to 3 and can be changed. The substrate appearance inspection machine photographs the components mounted on the substrate K to inspect the appearance state. The reflow machine stabilizes the mounting state of the component by heating and cooling the solder.

[0075] The component mounting machine 93 is provided with an in-machine storage area 94 at the lower side of the component supply device 3. The in-machine storage area 94 has a storage table of the same shape as the pallet table 31. Therefore, the in-machine storage area 94 can store the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 on the storage table in a detachable manner. In addition, the disassembly and assembly method of the storage table of the in-machine storage area 94 is the same as the disassembly and assembly method of the pallet table 31. The in-machine storage area 94 is mainly used for temporarily storing the replacement belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 for later use and temporarily storing the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 removed from the pallet table 31.

[0076] The production line 9 is provided with an in-line storage area 96 and a line management device 97. The in-line storage area 96 is adjacent to the solder printer 91 and is arranged at the same height as the component supply device 3 of the component mounting machine 93. The in-line storage area 96 has a storage table of the same shape as the pallet table 31. Therefore, the in-line storage area 96 can store the tape feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 on the storage table in a detachable manner. In addition, the disassembly and assembly method of the storage table of the in-line storage area 96 is the same as the disassembly and assembly method of the pallet table 31. The in-line storage area 96 is mainly used to store the tape feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 and to transfer them to the in-machine storage area 94. In addition, the tape feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 stored in the in-line storage area 96 can also be directly transported to the pallet table 31 without passing through the in-machine storage area 94. The line management device 97 is arranged adjacent to the in-line storage area 96. The line management device 97 is configured using a computer device.

[0077] In addition, a conveying device 7 is attached to the production line 9. The conveying device 7 conveys the tape feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 from the conveying source to the conveying destination. The conveying source and the conveying destination are appropriately selected and set to be any one of the pallet table 31 of each component mounting machine 93, the in-machine storage area 94 of each component mounting machine 93, and the in-line storage area 96. The conveying device 7 is composed of a device housing 71, a moving mechanism 72, a lifting mechanism 73, and a disassembly mechanism 74. The device housing 71 is formed using a long box-shaped member, and is opened on the side facing the component mounting machine 93 and the in-line storage area 96.

[0078] The moving mechanism 72 is composed of a middle rail 721, a lower rail 722, a middle travel section 723, a lower travel section 724, and a non-contact power receiving section 725. The middle rail 721 and the lower rail 722 are provided in a plurality of substrate operation machines and an in-line storage area 96. The middle rail 721 and the lower rail 722 are separated from each other up and down and arranged parallel to each other to form two rail sections extending in the X-axis direction. The middle travel section 723 and the lower travel section 724 are provided in the device housing 71. The middle travel section 723 is engaged with the middle rail 721 so as to be movable, and the lower travel section 724 is engaged with the lower rail 722 so as to be movable.

[0079] At least one of the middle-level traveling section 723 and the lower-level traveling section 724 includes a driving source for traveling. As the driving source, a servo motor, a pulse motor, etc. with good controllability of the stop position can be used. The non-contact power receiving section 725 is provided between the middle-level traveling section 723 and the lower-level traveling section 724 of the device housing 71. The non-contact power receiving section 725 receives power contactlessly from a non-contact power transmitting section (not shown) provided in the substrate operation machine, and supplies power to the driving source. Thus, the conveying device 7 moves along the line extension direction (X-axis direction) of the production line 9.

[0080] The lifting mechanism 73 and the detaching mechanism 74 are provided inside the device housing 71. The lifting mechanism 73 drives the detaching mechanism 74 to move up and down within the range from the height of the in-machine storage area 94 to the height of the component supply device 3 and the in-line storage area 96. As the lifting mechanism 73, a ball screw feed mechanism or a linear motor can be used.

[0081] The assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 performs assembly and disassembly operations on the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 at the transport source and the transport destination. In detail, the assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 is driven by the moving mechanism 72 and the lifting mechanism 73 to face the transport source. The assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 then removes the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6 from the transport source facing it and accommodates them inside the mechanism. The assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 is then driven by the moving mechanism 72 and the lifting mechanism 73 to face the transport destination. The assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 then installs the accommodated belt feeder 33 and nozzle feeder 6 at the transport destination facing it. The assembly and disassembly mechanism 74 can accommodate multiple belt feeders 33 and nozzle feeders 6 inside the mechanism, thereby improving the transport efficiency.

[0082] The conveying device 7 can move along the production line 9 as described above, and conveys the suction nozzle 45 by conveying the suction nozzle feeder 6. The conveying device 7 is used for replenishment processing of taking out the suction nozzle feeder 6 from the storage area (hereinafter, "the in-machine storage area 94 and the in-line storage area 96" are abbreviated as "the storage area"), loading and moving the suction nozzle feeder 6, and installing it on the pallet table 31 of the component mounting machine 93. In addition, the conveying device 7 is used for return processing of disassembling the suction nozzle feeder 6 from the pallet table 31 of the component mounting machine 93, loading and moving it, and conveying it to the storage area. Moreover, the conveying device 7 is used for repeated use processing of disassembling the suction nozzle feeder 6 from the pallet table 31 of the component mounting machine 93, loading and moving it, and installing it on the pallet table 31 of another component mounting machine 93.

[0083] 6. Structure of component mounting system 1

[0084] Next, the structure of the component mounting system 1 of the first embodiment will be described. The component mounting system 1 includes a plurality of component mounting machines 93 constituting the production line 9 of the substrate product described above, the transport device 7 described above, and a plan generating unit 9P described below. Figure 8 The structure related to the control of the component mounting system 1 is described. The line management device 97 is connected to the control device 5 of each component mounting machine 93 and is also connected to other types of board processing machines. The line management device 97 performs comprehensive management of board processing in the production line 9.

[0085] In each component mounting machine 93, the control device 5 stores the management information 9A and updates it sequentially. The management information 9A includes at least information on the type and quantity of the suction nozzles 45 held by the suction nozzle feeder 6 located in the component supply device 3 and the machine storage area 94. In addition, the management information 9A may also include information on the type and quantity of the suction nozzles 45 installed on the mounting head 43. In addition, the management information 9A may also include inherent information of the tape feeder 33 located in the component supply device 3 and the machine storage area 94 and information on the type and remaining quantity of the components supplied by the tape feeder 33. The control device 5 controls the mounting operation based on the mounting operation data 9C (described later) and appropriately refers to the management information 9A.

[0086] The line management device 97 stores the management information 9B in the attached memory 971 and updates it sequentially. The management information 9B includes at least information on the type and number of the nozzles 45 held by the nozzle feeder 6 located in the in-line storage area 96. In addition, the management information 9B may also include inherent information of the tape feeder 33 located in the in-line storage area 96 and information on the type and remaining number of components supplied by the tape feeder 33. Moreover, the management information 9B may also include information on the use history of the nozzles 45 and the tape feeder 33. As information on the use history, examples may be given of the past operating time, the number of actions, the occurrence of action errors, and the implementation of maintenance.

[0087] In addition, the line management device 97 stores the installation operation data 9C in the memory 971. The installation operation data 9C is generated for each type of substrate product (substrate K) and each substrate operation machine. When the line management device 97 changes the type of substrate product, the installation operation data 9C of the substrate product to be produced next is sent to each of the plurality of substrate operation machines. Generally speaking, the installation operation data 9C received by the component mounting machine 93 includes design information related to the type of substrate K as the raw material, the type of component, and the installation coordinate position. In the first embodiment, the installation operation data 9C at least includes preparation information indicating the type of tape feeder 33 and suction nozzle 45 used for each type of substrate product.

[0088] Furthermore, the line management device 97 stores maintenance information 9E in the memory 971. The maintenance information 9E is information indicating that the recommended maintenance period (maintenance period) for the suction nozzle 45 has arrived or the maintenance period is approaching. The line management device 97 compares the usage history of the suction nozzle 45 in the management information 9B with the predetermined number of actions and the predetermined operating time, and sets a regular maintenance period. In addition, the production line management device 97 may also set a temporary maintenance period when the number of occurrences and the incidence rate of action errors of the suction nozzle 45 increase. The maintenance information 9E is updated sequentially as the operating status of the suction nozzle 45 progresses.

[0089] In addition, the line management device 97 is connected to the conveying device 7 by communication using the wireless communication unit 972 to control the operation of the conveying device 7. In addition, the line management device 97 is connected to the production management device 98 by communication. The production management device 98 stores the production plan 9D in the attached memory 981 and updates it sequentially. The production plan 9D contains at least information indicating the type of substrate products to be produced and the production sequence. In addition, the production plan 9D may also include information indicating the production quantity of substrate products, the production period, the substrate K that becomes the raw material, the procurement period of components, the operation plan of the production line 9, and the staffing plan of the operator.

[0090] The line management device 97 includes a plan generation unit 9P and a transport control unit 9M configured using software. The plan generation unit 9P obtains the production plan 9D and the preparation information or maintenance information 9E of the installation operation data 9C, and generates a transport plan for the suction nozzle 45 by the transport device 7 based on them. Preferably, the plan generation unit 9P obtains management information (9A, 9B) in addition to the production plan 9D, the preparation information (installation operation data 9C) or the maintenance information 9E, and generates a transport plan based on them.

[0091] When the plan generation unit 9P generates a transport plan based on the preparation information (installation operation data 9C), first, it identifies the content and implementation period of the production change adjustment for changing the type of substrate product according to the production plan 9D. Next, the plan generation unit 9P calculates the number of excess or shortages during the production change adjustment for each type of suction nozzle 45 based on the preparation information (installation operation data 9C) before and after the production change adjustment. Next, the plan generation unit 9P generates a transport plan including a shared use process of transporting the suction nozzle 45 from the first component mounting machine 93 that calculates the excess of suction nozzles 45 to the second component mounting machine 93 that calculates the shortage of suction nozzles 45 of the same type.

[0092] In addition, the plan generation unit 9P includes a return process of the suction nozzles 45 calculated as excessive by the first component mounting machine 93 to the storage area as needed as part of the transport plan. In addition, the plan generation unit 9P includes a replenishment process of the suction nozzles 45 calculated as insufficient by the second component mounting machine 93 from the storage area as needed as part of the transport plan. Then, the plan generation unit 9P prioritizes the shared use process over the return process and the replenishment process. In this way, the number of suction nozzles 45 required for production change adjustment in the production line 9 can be minimized.

[0093] In addition, the plan generation unit 9P can generate a maintenance transport plan based on the sequentially updated maintenance information 9E. The plan generation unit 9P first identifies the suction nozzle 45 whose maintenance period has arrived or is approaching and the component mounting machine 93 using the suction nozzle 45. The plan generation unit 9P then generates a maintenance transport plan, which includes a replenishment process of transporting the replacement suction nozzle 45 from the storage area to the component mounting machine 93 and a return process of transporting the suction nozzle 45 to the storage area. The maintenance transport plan is executed at the next production change adjustment, or is executed quickly after the plan is generated. In particular, when the number and incidence of operation errors of the suction nozzle 45 increase and a temporary maintenance period is set, it is preferable to quickly execute the maintenance transport plan.

[0094] The transport control unit 9M controls the transport device 7 based on the transport plan generated by the plan generation unit 9P. Specifically, the transport device 7 transports the nozzle feeder 6 holding the nozzle 45 to be used later from the storage area to the component mounting machine 93, and installs it on the pallet table 31 (replenishment process). Then, the component mounting machine 93 automatically replaces the unused nozzle 45 held in the mounting head 43 or the nozzle 45 that has reached the maintenance period and the nozzle 45 held in the nozzle feeder 6 that will be used later. The transport device 7 carries out the nozzle feeder 6 holding the unused nozzle 45, and transports it to other component mounting machines 93 (repeated use process), or transports it to the storage area (return process). In addition, the transport device 7 transports the nozzle 45 that has reached the maintenance period to the storage area (return process).

[0095] The transport control unit 9M controls the transport device 7 to transport the suction nozzles 45 based on the transport plan, thereby being able to plan and efficiently use a limited number of suction nozzles 45. In addition, the transport control unit 9M can promptly transport the suction nozzles 45 that are due for maintenance, which helps maintain efficient use and installation reliability. The functions of the plan generation unit 9P and the transport control unit 9M are described in detail using specific examples in the following description of the actions.

[0096] 7. Operation of component mounting system 1

[0097] Next, using a specific example, refer to Figure 9~Figure 12 The operation based on the preparation information (mounting operation data 9C) of the component mounting system 1 is described. Figure 10~Figure 12In the description, unimportant zeros are appropriately omitted and left blank. In a specific example, the production line 9 is composed of 10 component mounting machines 93 arranged in an array, in other words, arranged from the first mounting machine M1 at the most upstream to the tenth mounting machine M10 at the most downstream. The first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10 can each use 20 suction nozzles 45 in an automatically replaceable manner. The suction nozzles 45 include five types, namely the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5, in order from small to large of the components to be adsorbed. In addition, it is assumed that the number of suction nozzles 45 maintained by the suction nozzle feeder 6 is a maximum of 20. In addition, it is assumed that the suction nozzle station 48 is not used in order to automate the production change adjustment operation when changing the type of substrate product.

[0098] Furthermore, a continuous production sequence is set for the bottom surface and the top surface of the substrate K. Even if it is the same substrate K, the bottom surface and the top surface are treated as different types of substrates. Of course, different types of substrates K are generally produced in a continuous production sequence. The number of small components installed on the bottom surface is relatively large. On the other hand, the number of medium-sized components and large components installed on the top surface is relatively large compared to the bottom surface. Therefore, the bottom surface is produced first, and then the top surface is produced. In addition, in the production of the bottom surface and the top surface respectively, small components are preferentially allocated to the component mounting machine 93 on the upstream side, and the larger the component, the more it is allocated to the component mounting machine 93 on the downstream side. By setting such an installation sequence, the influence on the installation work after the components have been installed is avoided.

[0099] Fig. 9 The action flow shown is mainly carried out under the control of the line management device 97. Fig. 9 In step S1, the plan generation unit 9P of the line management device 97 obtains the production plan 9D from the production management device 98. The production plan 9D shows the continuous production sequence of the bottom surface and the top surface. The plan generation unit 9P completes the operations up to step S4 before the production of the bottom surface is completed and the production adjustment to the top surface is required. The plan generation unit 9P obtains the preparation information of the bottom surface and the top surface based on the production plan 9D.

[0100] like Fig.10 As shown, the preparation information indicates the number of the first suction nozzles N1 to the fifth suction nozzles N5 used by the first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10. That is, according to the preparation information of the bottom surface, the first mounting machine M1, the second mounting machine M2, and the third mounting machine M3 use 20 first suction nozzles N1 respectively. The fourth mounting machine M4 uses 12 first suction nozzles N1 and 8 second suction nozzles N2. The fifth mounting machine M5 and the sixth mounting machine M6 use 20 second suction nozzles N2 respectively. The seventh mounting machine M7 uses 10 second suction nozzles N2 and 10 third suction nozzles N3. The eighth mounting machine M8, the ninth mounting machine M9, and the tenth mounting machine M10 use 20 third suction nozzles N3 respectively.

[0101] In addition, according to the preparation information of the top surface, the first mounting machine M1 and the second mounting machine M2 use 20 first suction nozzles N1 respectively. The third mounting machine M3 uses 20 second suction nozzles N2. The fourth mounting machine M4 uses 10 second suction nozzles N2 and 10 third suction nozzles N3. The fifth mounting machine M5, the sixth mounting machine M6 and the seventh mounting machine M7 use 20 third suction nozzles N3 respectively. The eighth mounting machine M8 uses 12 third suction nozzles N3 and 8 fourth suction nozzles N4. The ninth mounting machine M9 uses 4 third suction nozzles N3 and 16 fourth suction nozzles N4. The tenth mounting machine M10 uses 16 fourth suction nozzles N4 and 4 fifth suction nozzles N5.

[0102] In addition, the plan generation unit 9P obtains the management information 9A from each component mounting machine 93 and confirms the management information 9B. When the bottom surface is being produced, the plan generation unit 9P confirms that the type and number of the suction nozzles 45 mounted on the mounting head 43 are consistent with the preparation information based on the management information 9A. If they are inconsistent, the plan generation unit 9P prioritizes the management information 9A and identifies the type and number of the suction nozzles 45 actually mounted on the mounting head 43.

[0103] In the next step S2, the plan generation unit 9P calculates the number of excess or shortage of the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5 during the production change adjustment in the first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10. Fig.11 The excess or shortage of each device is shown in the “Excess or shortage number of each device”, and the excess number is marked with “+” and the shortage number is marked with “-”.

[0104] That is, in the first mounting machine M1 and the second mounting machine M2, there will be no excess or shortage. In the third mounting machine M3, there are 20 excess first suction nozzles N1, and 20 less than the second suction nozzles N2. In the fourth mounting machine M4, there are 12 excess first suction nozzles N1, 2 less than 2 second suction nozzles N2, and 10 less than the third suction nozzles N3. In the fifth mounting machine M5, there are 20 excess second suction nozzles N2, and 20 less than the third suction nozzles N3. In the sixth mounting machine M6, there are 20 excess second suction nozzles N2, and 20 less than the third suction nozzles N3. In the seventh mounting machine M7, there are 10 excess second suction nozzles N2, and 10 less than the third suction nozzles N3. In the eighth mounting machine M8, there are 8 excess third suction nozzles N3, and 8 less than the fourth suction nozzles N4. In the ninth mounting machine M9, there are 16 excess third suction nozzles N3, and 16 less than the fourth suction nozzles N4. In the tenth mounting machine M10, the third suction nozzles N3 have an excess of 20, the fourth suction nozzles N4 have a shortage of 16, and the fifth suction nozzles N5 have a shortage of 4.

[0105] In the next step S3, the plan generation unit 9P generates a general transport plan related to the entire production line 9. Specifically, the plan generation unit 9P first sums up the excess and shortage of each machine of the first nozzle N1 to the fifth nozzle N5 in the first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10, and calculates the excess number A1 and shortage number A2 in the entire production line. Fig.11 As shown in the "Overall Production Line" column, the excess number A1 of the first suction nozzle N1 is 32, and the insufficient number A2 is zero. The excess number A1 of the second suction nozzle N2 is 50, and the insufficient number A2 is 22. The excess number A1 of the third suction nozzle N3 is 44, and the insufficient number A2 is 60. The excess number A1 of the fourth suction nozzle N4 is zero, and the insufficient number A2 is 40. The excess number A1 of the fifth suction nozzle N5 is zero, and the insufficient number A2 is 4. In addition, the total excess number A1 and insufficient number A2 of all the suction nozzles from the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5 are 126 respectively.

[0106] Here, in each of the suction nozzles N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5, the smaller of the excess number A1 and the insufficient number A2 indicates the number that can be shared and used. Therefore, the plan generation unit 9P sets the smaller of the excess number A1 and the insufficient number A2 as the shared number A3 for each of the suction nozzles N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5. The shared number A3 of the second suction nozzle N2 becomes 22, and the shared number A3 of the third suction nozzle N3 becomes 44. In addition, the shared number A3 of the first suction nozzle N1, the fourth suction nozzle N4, and the fifth suction nozzle N5 becomes zero. Thus, it is determined that a part of the transportation plan for sharing 66 (=22+44) suction nozzles 45 is used in response to the situation where the entire production line has less than 126 suction nozzles 45.

[0107] Next, the plan generation unit 9P takes the first suction nozzle N1 and the second suction nozzle N2, whose excess number A1 is larger than the shortage number A2, as objects, and subtracts the shared use number A3 from the excess number A1 to calculate the return number A4. The return number A4 of the first suction nozzle N1 is 32, and the return number A4 of the second suction nozzle N2 is 28. In addition, the return number A4 of the third suction nozzle N3, the fourth suction nozzle N4, and the fifth suction nozzle N5 becomes zero. Thus, it is determined that it is part of the transportation plan to return 60 (=32+28) suction nozzles 45 from the component mounting machine 93 to the storage area in the entire production line.

[0108] Furthermore, the plan generation unit 9P takes the third suction nozzle N3 to the fifth suction nozzle N5 whose excess number A1 is smaller than the shortage number A2 as objects, and calculates the replenishment number A5 by subtracting the shared use number A3 from the shortage number A2. The replenishment number A5 of the third suction nozzle N3 is 16, the replenishment number A5 of the fourth suction nozzle N4 is 40, and the replenishment number A5 of the fifth suction nozzle N5 is 4. In addition, the replenishment number A5 of the first suction nozzle N1 and the second suction nozzle N2 becomes zero. Thus, it is determined that it is a part of the transportation plan for replenishing 60 (=16+40+4) suction nozzles 45 from the storage area to the component mounting machine 93 on the entire production line. That is, in the case where there are less than 126 suction nozzles 45 on the entire production line, the number of newly prepared suction nozzles 45 can be 60, which is less than half.

[0109] Thus, a general transport plan is generated, and the number of suction nozzles 45 to be subjected to the shared use process, return process, and replenishment process in the entire production line 9 is determined. In addition, when the plan generation unit 9P transports the suction nozzles 45 whose maintenance period has arrived during the production change adjustment, the shared use process is not performed but the return process is performed. In addition, the plan generation unit 9P generates a transport plan for the suction nozzles 45 that are insufficiently supplied through other shared use processes or replenishment processes.

[0110] The summary transport plan does not specify a specific transport method of the nozzle feeder 6. Therefore, in the next step S4, the plan generation unit 9P generates a detailed transport plan for transporting the nozzles 45 (the first nozzle N1 to the fifth nozzle N5) using the nozzle feeder 6. Fig.12 In the illustrated detailed transport plan, four nozzle feeders 6, namely, the first feeder F1 to the fourth feeder F4, are used. The detailed transport plan shows the multiple transport positions to which the first feeder F1 to the fourth feeder F4 move and the contents of the holding status or replacement operation of the nozzle 45 at each transport position. The numerical value with "+" in the replacement operation indicates the number of nozzles 45 returned from the mounting head 43 to the nozzle feeder 6. In addition, the numerical value marked with "-" and recorded in parentheses indicates the number of nozzles 45 supplied from the nozzle feeder 6 to the mounting head 43.

[0111] This detailed transport plan is generated based on the following generation policies (1) to (4).

[0112] (1) If possible, the nozzle feeder 6 is used in conjunction with a plurality of shared use processes.

[0113] (2) The nozzle feeder 6 used in the shared use process may also be used in the replenishment process if possible.

[0114] (3) The nozzle feeder 6 used in the shared use process may also be used in the return process if possible.

[0115] (4) When a need other than the above-mentioned (1) to (3) arises, the nozzle feeder 6 that performs both the replenishment process and the return process is used.

[0116] In addition, other production strategies can be applied. For example, more nozzle feeders 6 can be used to eliminate Fig.12 In addition, by making the number of the suction nozzles 45 held by the nozzle feeder 6 greater than 20, the number of transfer positions to which one nozzle feeder 6 can be moved can be increased, and the number of nozzle feeders 6 used can be reduced.

[0117] exist Fig.12 In the illustrated detailed transport plan, the column before transport shows the contents of the following preparation work (a) to (d) for holding the supplied suction nozzles 45 in the suction nozzle feeder 6 .

[0118] (a) The first feeder F1 is made to hold 16 fourth suction nozzles N4 and 4 fifth suction nozzles N5.

[0119] (b) The second feeder F2 is configured to hold four third suction nozzles N3 and 16 fourth suction nozzles.

[0120] (c) The third feeder F3 is made to hold two third suction nozzles N3 and eight fourth suction nozzles.

[0121] (d) The fourth feeder F4 is made to hold ten third suction nozzles N3.

[0122] In step S5, the transport control unit 9M requests the operator to perform the preparation work of (a) to (d) above before executing the detailed transport plan. The operator who receives the request performs the preparation work of the first feeder F1 to the fourth feeder F4 and sets them in the storage area. The transport control unit 9M confirms that the preparation work of the first feeder F1 to the fourth feeder F4 has been completed by referring to the management information (9A, 9B).

[0123] In the next step S6, when the time for the product change adjustment from the bottom surface to the top surface comes, the transport control unit 9M performs the following operations based on the Fig.12 The transport device 7 is controlled by the detailed transport plan illustrated. Thus, the third to tenth mounting machines M3 to M10 can prepare for the top surface mounting operation by automatically replacing the suction nozzle 45 used on the top surface and mounting it on the mounting head 43. In addition, the first mounting machine M1 and the second mounting machine M2 do not need to automatically replace the suction nozzle 45.

[0124] The transport device 7 transports not only the nozzle feeder 6 but also the tape feeder 33 during the production changeover. The transport device 7 mounts the nozzle feeder 6 on the pallet table 31 of the component mounting machine 93 in the following manners (A) to (C).

[0125] (A) The nozzle feeder 6 is installed in the empty slot 32 .

[0126] (B) When there is no empty slot 32 , the nozzle feeder 6 is attached to the slot 32 that has become empty temporarily by replacing the tape feeder 33 .

[0127] (C) When there is no empty slot 32 and the tape feeder 33 cannot be replaced, one of the tape feeders 33 is temporarily removed and the nozzle feeder 6 is installed, and after the nozzle feeder 6 is removed, the tape feeder 33 is installed again.

[0128] exist Fig.12 In the illustrated detailed transport plan, the columns of the first to third transport destinations indicate the order of the transport positions to which the nozzle feeder 6 moves, and the column after transport indicates that the nozzle feeder 6 returns to the storage area. The first feeder F1, which has completed the preparation work, is transported from the storage area to the tenth mounting machine M10 at the first transport destination. In the tenth mounting machine M10, the first feeder F1 supplies 16 fourth nozzles N4 and 4 fifth nozzles N5 to the mounting head 43, and receives 20 third nozzles N3 from the mounting head 43. The first feeder F1 is further transported to the fifth mounting machine M5 at the second transport destination, supplies 20 third nozzles N3 to the mounting head 43, and receives 20 second nozzles N2 from the mounting head 43. The first feeder F1 is further transported to the third mounting machine M3 at the third transport destination, supplies 20 second nozzles N2 to the mounting head 43, and receives 20 first nozzles N1 from the mounting head 43. The first feeder F1 finally returns to the storage area and is stored in a state where the 20 first suction nozzles N1 are kept.

[0129] The second feeder F2 is transported from the storage area to the ninth mounting machine M9, supplies 16 fourth suction nozzles N4 to the mounting head 43, and receives 16 third suction nozzles N3 from the mounting head 43. The number of third suction nozzles N3 is 20, which is the original 4 plus the 16 received. The second feeder F2 is further transported to the sixth mounting machine M6, supplies 20 third suction nozzles N3 to the mounting head 43, and receives 20 second suction nozzles N2 from the mounting head 43. The second feeder F2 is further transported to the fourth mounting machine M4, supplies two second suction nozzles N2 to the mounting head 43, and receives two first suction nozzles N1 from the mounting head 43. The second feeder F2 finally returns to the storage area and is stored in the state of maintaining 2 first suction nozzles N1 and 18 second suction nozzles N2.

[0130] The third feeder F3 is transported from the storage area to the eighth mounting machine M8, supplies eight fourth suction nozzles N4 to the mounting head 43, and receives eight third suction nozzles N3 from the mounting head 43. The number of third suction nozzles N3 is ten, including the eight received from the original two. The third feeder F3 is further transported to the seventh mounting machine M7, supplies ten third suction nozzles N3 to the mounting head 43, and receives ten second suction nozzles N2 from the mounting head 43. The second feeder F2 finally returns to the storage area, and is stored in a state where the ten second suction nozzles N2 are maintained.

[0131] The fourth feeder F4 is transported from the storage area to the fourth mounting machine M4, supplies 10 third suction nozzles N3 to the mounting head 43, and receives 10 first suction nozzles N1 from the mounting head 43. The fourth feeder F4 is not transported to other mounting machines but returned to the storage area to be stored while holding the 10 first suction nozzles N1.

[0132] As described above, the first feeder F1 and the second feeder F2 are used for replenishment processing, two shared use processing and return processing. The third feeder F3 is used for replenishment processing, one shared use processing and return processing. The fourth feeder F4 is used for replenishment processing and return processing, and is not used for shared use processing. As described above, the conveying device 7 conveys the suction nozzle 45 (the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5) to the third mounting machine M3 to the tenth mounting machine M10, and the mounting head 43 automatically replaces the suction nozzle 45 (the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5), respectively, so that the suction nozzle 45 can be replaced fully automatically during production change adjustment.

[0133] In addition, the plan generation unit 9P may also generate a transport plan that includes a return process and a replenishment process but does not include a shared use process. For example, the plan generation unit 9P generates a transport plan that uses a nozzle feeder 6 assigned to each component mounting machine 93 to perform a replenishment process and a return process. According to the transport plan, the first feeder F1 assigned to the third mounting machine M3 is transported to the third mounting machine M3 while maintaining 20 second nozzles N2. Moreover, in the third mounting machine M3, the first feeder F1 supplies 20 second nozzles N2 to the mounting head 43 and receives 20 first nozzles N1 from the mounting head 43. Then, the first feeder F1 returns to the storage area to be stored while maintaining the 20 first nozzles N1.

[0134] In addition, the second feeder F2 assigned to the fourth mounting machine M4 is transported to the fourth mounting machine M4 while maintaining 2 second suction nozzles N2 and 10 third suction nozzles N3. And, in the fourth mounting machine M4, the second feeder F2 supplies 2 second suction nozzles N2 and 10 third suction nozzles N3 to the mounting head 43, and receives 12 first suction nozzles N1 from the mounting head 43. Then, the second feeder F2 returns to the storage area, and is stored while maintaining the 12 second suction nozzles N2. In the fifth mounting machine M5 to the tenth mounting machine M10, the respectively assigned suction nozzle feeders 6 are also replenished and returned. In this method, by preparing in advance 126 suction nozzles 45 corresponding to the shortage number A2 of all suction nozzles of the entire production line, the suction nozzles 45 are replaced fully automatically during production change adjustments.

[0135] In addition, when the plan generation unit 9P generates a maintenance transport plan based on the maintenance information 9E, it directly generates a detailed transport plan. That is, the plan generation unit 9P generates a maintenance transport plan for transporting the nozzle feeder 6 holding the replenished nozzle 45 to the component mounting machine 93 using the nozzle 45 whose maintenance period has arrived or is approaching. As described above, the maintenance transport plan is executed together with the production change adjustment, or is executed quickly without waiting for the production change adjustment period.

[0136] When the transport control unit 9M quickly executes the transport plan for maintenance, it requests the operator to prepare the nozzle feeder 6 to keep the supplied nozzle 45 at the time of generating the plan. When the nozzle feeder 6 is prepared and set in the storage area, the transport control unit 9M controls the transport device 7 to execute the transport plan for maintenance. As a result, the nozzle feeder 6 is installed on the pallet table 31 of the component mounting machine 93. The component mounting machine 93 immediately performs the automatic replacement of the nozzle 45, or performs it on a timed basis. For example, the component mounting machine 93 can use the time period when the transport of the substrate K is stagnant and the mounting work becomes a small break to perform the automatic replacement of the nozzle 45.

[0137] In the component mounting system 1 of the first embodiment, the plan generation unit 9P generates a transportation plan for the suction nozzles 45 (the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5) based on the production plan 9D of the substrate product and the preparation information (installation operation data 9C) indicating the types and quantities of the suction nozzles 45 (the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5) used by each of the plurality of component mounting machines 93 (the first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10). As a result, the component mounting system 1 can generate a transportation plan that plans to transport and efficiently use the suction nozzles 45 (the first nozzle N1 to the fifth nozzle N5) of the types and quantities required in the production line 9. In addition, the suction nozzle feeder 6 can be applied to the component mounting machines 93 (the first mounting machine M1 to the tenth mounting machine M10) that constitute the component mounting system 1, and can supply the suction nozzles 45 (the first suction nozzle N1 to the fifth suction nozzle N5) in a replaceable manner.

[0138] 8. Structure of nozzle feeder 6F of application example

[0139] Next, refer to Fig.13 The nozzle feeder 6F corresponding to the use case is described. The nozzle feeder 6F has an outer shape substantially the same as the nozzle feeder 6 described in the first embodiment, except for the width dimension in the X-axis direction. The nozzle feeder 6F has a larger width dimension than the nozzle feeder 6 and can be detachably mounted on a plurality of slots 32 of the pallet table 31. In addition, the nozzle feeder 6F is stored in the storage area and transported by the transport device 7.

[0140] As Fig.13 As shown, the nozzle feeder 6F is formed by assembling various components in a frame 6G including a side plate. The nozzle feeder 6F is composed of a frame 6G, five nozzle holding units 62, a storage bin 6H, a pull-out mechanism 6L, and a lifting mechanism 6M. The five nozzle holding units 62 respectively have the same structure as the bottom plate 622 and the cover plate 625 described in the first embodiment, and the number of nozzles 45 held may also be different from that in the first embodiment.

[0141] The storage chamber 6H is disposed at a front position inside the frame 6G ( Fig.13 The storage bin 6H is composed of five pairs of rails 6J arranged vertically. The pair of rails 6J are separated from each other in the horizontal plane and extend in parallel in the front-rear direction. The pair of rails 6J accommodates the support plate 6K that supports the nozzle holding unit 62 in a removable manner in a pull-out manner. The support plate 6K has a limiting drive part 64 that allows the cover plate 625 of the nozzle holding unit 62 to slide and move, and the lifting drive part 63 is omitted.

[0142] The pull-out mechanism 6L pulls the selected nozzle holding unit 62 together with the support plate 6K from the storage chamber 6H to the horizontal rear (at Fig.13 The pull-out mechanism 6L can be configured by combining, for example, a conveyor belt that rotates along a pull-out track, a hook that is provided on the conveyor belt and locks the support plate 6K, and a motor that rotates and drives the conveyor belt.

[0143] The lifting mechanism 6M drives the pull-out mechanism 6L, the pulled-out nozzle holding unit 62, and the support plate 6K to lift and lower together. When the nozzle 45 is automatically replaced, the lifting mechanism 6M raises the nozzle holding unit 62 to the height of the replacement position 66. In addition, the lifting mechanism 6M lowers the nozzle holding unit 62 to avoid interfering with the movement of other components during normal operation other than when the nozzle 45 is automatically replaced. Fig.13In the embodiment, the second suction nozzle holding unit 62 from the bottom is pulled out by the pulling mechanism 6L and raised by the lifting mechanism 6M to the replacement position 66. When the automatic replacement of the suction nozzle 45 at the replacement position 66 is completed, the suction nozzle holding unit 62 and the support plate 6K return to the storage bin 6H.

[0144] The nozzle feeder 6F has a protrusion, an upper positioning pin 69, a lower positioning pin, a connector and a locking mechanism 6C of the same shape as the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder 6. Therefore, the description of these parts is omitted. The nozzle feeder 6F of the application example can hold more nozzles 45 than the nozzle feeder 6 in a detachable manner for supply. In addition, the nozzle feeder 6F can also be a permanent type instead of a detachable type, for example, it can be permanently installed in the component mounting machine 93 instead of the nozzle station 48. According to this method, the nozzle feeder 6F can supply more nozzles 45 than the nozzle station 48.

[0145] 9. Component Mounting System 1A of Second Embodiment

[0146] Next, regarding the component mounting system 1A of the second embodiment, refer to Fig.14 , mainly describing the differences from the first embodiment. Fig.14 As shown, in the second embodiment, an automatic transport vehicle 8 is added to the structure of the first embodiment. The automatic transport vehicle 8 functions as a part of the transport device 7 that transports the nozzle feeder (6, 6F). Specifically, the automatic transport vehicle 8 travels between the tool warehouse 82 and the transport device 7 to transport the nozzle feeder (6, 6F). Furthermore, the automatic transport vehicle 8 travels between the external work area 83 and the transport device 7 to transport the nozzle feeder (6, 6F).

[0147] The automatic transport vehicle 8 is generally referred to as an AGV, and travels along a travel path 81. The travel path 81 is not limited to a physical entity such as a travel track, and can also be virtually set on the ground. The automatic transport vehicle 8 travels while loading a transport warehouse 84 that stores a plurality of belt feeders 33 and a plurality of nozzle feeders (6, 6F). The transport warehouse 84 can be configured, for example, as a slot having the same shape as the slot 32 of the pallet table 31. In addition, the automatic transport vehicle 8 can also travel in a state where a plurality of belt feeders 33 and a plurality of nozzle feeders (6, 6F) are directly loaded.

[0148] The equipment warehouse 82 stores, keeps, and removes equipment such as the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder (6, 6F). The equipment warehouse 82 has an automatic storage and removal function that automatically removes and assembles the belt feeder 33 and the nozzle feeder (6, 6F) when the automatic transport vehicle 8 arrives at one of the three storage ports 821. The equipment warehouse 82 is a storage area that is separated from the production line 9 and stores the nozzle 45. Therefore, the plan generation unit 9P can generate a transportation plan that sets at least one of the transportation source and transportation destination of the nozzle feeder (6, 6F) to the equipment warehouse 82.

[0149] The external work area 83 is an area that is separated from the production line 9 and is used by operators to perform various preparation operations. A nozzle maintenance device 831 (mounting maintenance device), a nozzle replacement device 832, and a loading device 833 are provided in the external work area 83. In addition, a feeder preparation device that automatically prepares the belt feeder 33 may also be provided in the external work area 83. The nozzle maintenance device 831 receives the nozzle station 48 and the nozzle holding unit 62, and automatically performs maintenance on the held nozzle 45. The nozzle replacement device 832 receives the nozzle station 48 and the nozzle holding unit 62, and automatically performs replacement of the nozzle 45. The applicant of the present application disclosed a technical example of a nozzle maintenance device 831 in patent document 4.

[0150] In addition, the nozzle maintenance device 831 and the nozzle replacement device 832 may also be a structure that receives the entire nozzle feeder (6, 6F). In addition, the maintenance and replacement of the nozzle 45 may also be performed by the operator in the external operation area 83. The implementation history of the maintenance and replacement of the nozzle 45 is sent via a communication system (not shown) and is reflected in the update of the management information 9B. The plan generation unit 9P is capable of generating a transport plan that sets at least one of the transport source and the transport destination of the nozzle feeder (6, 6F) in the external operation area 83.

[0151] The loading device 833 is arranged close to the travel path 81. The loading device 833 automatically performs loading of the transport bin 84 and other equipment between the automatic transport vehicle 8 and the external work area 83. Thus, the nozzle feeder (6, 6F) prepared by any one of the nozzle maintenance device 831, the nozzle replacement device 832 and the operator is automatically transported from the external work area 83 to the transport device 7. Moreover, the nozzle feeder (6, 6F) returned to the transport device 7 from the component mounting machine 93 through the return process is automatically transported to the external work area 83. In addition, the loading device 833 may be omitted, and the loading of the transport bin 84 and other equipment may be performed by the operator.

[0152] According to the component mounting system 1A of the second embodiment, the nozzle feeders (6, 6F) are transported by the automatic transport vehicle 8 between the tool warehouse 82 and the external work area 83 and the transport device 7, so that more nozzles 45 can be supplied than in the first embodiment. In addition, the automatic transport vehicle 8 transports the nozzle feeders (6, 6F), thereby further promoting labor saving and automation.

[0153] 10. Application and Variation of Implementation Methods

[0154] In addition, the transport device 7 automatically operates at any time other than during production changeover and adjustment. For example, the tape feeder 33 that runs out of components as production progresses can be automatically replaced. In addition, the plan generation unit 9P can directly generate a detailed transport plan by omitting the summary transport plan. Furthermore, the plan generation unit 9P and the transport control unit 9M can also be provided in a computer device other than the production line management device 97. In addition, the management information (9A, 9B) can also be stored in a storage device different from that described in the first embodiment.

[0155] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the plan generation unit 9P takes one production line 9 as an object, but is not limited to this. For example, when the production change adjustment period of two production lines 9 overlaps, the plan generation unit 9P can include the inter-line recycling process of transporting the suction nozzle 45 of the component mounting machine 93 of the first production line 9 to the component mounting machine 93 of the second production line 9 in the transport plan. In addition, in the second embodiment, the automatic transport vehicle 8 can travel to the transport devices 7 respectively provided in the two production lines 9 to transport the suction nozzle feeders (6, 6F). In addition, the suction nozzle maintenance device 831 and the suction nozzle replacement device 832 can also be provided in the movable area of ​​the transport device 7 in the production line 9 to transfer the suction nozzle feeders (6, 6F) with the transport device 7. In addition to this, the first and second embodiments can also be used in various applications and modifications.

[0156] Description of Reference Numerals

[0157] 1, 1A: component mounting system 2: substrate transport device 3: component supply device 31: pallet table 32: slot 33: tape feeder 38: protrusion 4: component transfer device 43: mounting head 45: nozzle 48: nozzle station 5: control device 6, 6F: nozzle feeder 62: nozzle holding unit 622: bottom plate 623: storage hole with step 625: cover plate 626: restriction hole 63: lifting drive unit 64: restriction drive unit 66: replacement position 6H: storage bin 6L: pull-out mechanism 6M: lifting mechanism 7: transport device 74: disassembly mechanism 8: automatic transport vehicle 82: device Tool warehouse 83: External operation area 831: Nozzle maintenance device 832: Nozzle replacement device 9: Production line 93: Component mounting machine 94: In-machine storage area 96: In-line storage area 97: Line management device 9A: Management information 9B: Management information 9C: Installation operation data 9D: Production plan 9E: Maintenance information 9P: Plan generation unit 9M: Transport control unit M1~M10: First to tenth mounting machines N1~N5: First to fifth nozzles F1~F4: First to fourth feeders A1: Excess number A2: Insufficient number A3: Shared use number A4: Return number A5: Replenishment number

Claims

1. A component mounting system comprising: A plurality of component mounting machines each of which holds component mounting pieces used for mounting components on a substrate in a manner that can be automatically replaced at a predetermined replacement position in the machine, and are arranged side by side to form a production line for substrate products; a transport device that transports the component mounting parts between a storage area for storing the component mounting parts and the replacement position of the component mounting machine and between the replacement positions of a plurality of the component mounting machines, outside the component mounting machine or inside the machine except for the replacement position; and A plan generating unit generates a plan for the conveying device to convey the component mounting parts based on a production plan indicating the types and production sequence of the substrate products and preparation information or maintenance information, wherein the preparation information indicates the types and quantities of the component mounting parts used by each of the plurality of component mounting machines according to each type of the substrate products, and the maintenance information indicates the maintenance period of the component mounting parts.

2. The component mounting system according to claim 1, wherein: The plan generating unit generates the transport plan based on the production plan, the preparation information or the maintenance information, and management information indicating the types and quantities of the component mounting pieces arranged in the storage area and the replacement positions of each of the plurality of component mounting machines.

3. The component mounting system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the type of the substrate product is changed according to the production plan, the plan generating unit calculates the surplus or shortage of the component mounting parts used in each of the plurality of component mounting machines according to each type of the component mounting parts based on the preparation information, and generates the transport plan including a shared use processing, wherein the component mounting parts are transported from the first component mounting machine where the surplus of the component mounting parts is calculated to the second component mounting machine where the shortage of the same type of component mounting parts is calculated.

4. The component mounting system according to claim 3, wherein: The plan generating unit gives priority to the shared use processing over the return processing and the replenishment processing, wherein the return processing moves the component mounting parts calculated as being in excess in the first component mounting machine to the storage area, and the replenishment processing moves the component mounting parts calculated as being in shortage in the second component mounting machine from the storage area.

5. The component mounting system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the type of the substrate product is changed according to the production plan, the plan generating unit calculates the surplus or shortage of the component mounting parts used in each of the plurality of component mounting machines according to each type of the component mounting parts based on the preparation information, and generates the transport plan including a return process and a replenishment process, wherein the return process transports the component mounting parts of the type calculated to be in surplus in the first component mounting machine from the first component mounting machine to the storage area, and the replenishment process transports the component mounting parts of the type calculated to be in shortage in the second component mounting machine from the storage area to the second component mounting machine.

6. The component mounting system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The transport device transports the component mounting part by transporting the mounting part feeder, The fixture feeder includes a fixture holding unit that detachably holds a plurality of the component fixtures, and is detachably mounted so that the fixture holding unit is arranged at the replacement position of the component mounting machine.

7. The component mounting system according to claim 6, wherein: The mount feeder is mount-compatible with a component feeder that is detachably mounted on the component mounter and supplies the components.

8. The component mounting system according to claim 6, wherein: The fixture holding unit includes: a storage member having a plurality of storage holes arranged on a plane and capable of storing the component fixtures; and a restriction member that restricts the component fixtures stored in the storage holes from flying out except during automatic replacement.

9. The component mounting system according to claim 8, wherein: The component mounting machine includes a mounting station, the mounting station having the storage member and the restriction member, detachably holding the component mounting member, and arranged at the first replacement position. The fixture feeder is detachably mounted so that the fixture station is arranged at the second replacement position.

10. The component mounting system according to claim 6, wherein: The mounting member feeder has: A receiving compartment for receiving a plurality of the mounting member retaining units; and The replacement mechanism selectively takes out the mounting member holding unit from the storage bin and arranges it at the replacement position.

11. The component mounting system according to claim 10, wherein: The storage bin stores a plurality of the mounting member holding units side by side up and down. The replacement mechanism comprises: A pulling mechanism for selectively pulling out the mounting member holding unit from the receiving bin in a horizontal direction; and The lifting mechanism raises the pulled-out mounting member holding unit to the height of the replacement position.

12. The component mounting system according to claim 6, wherein: The storage area is arranged inside the machine other than the replacement position of the component mounting machine or inside the line of the production line, The transport device is capable of moving along the production line, taking out the mounting material feeder from the storage area, loading and moving it, and mounting it on the component mounting machine.

13. The component mounting system according to claim 6, wherein: The storage area is arranged separately from the production line. The transport device comprises: A feeder transport device capable of moving along the production line, loading and moving the mounting part feeder, and installing it on the component mounting machine; and An automatic transport vehicle transports the mounting part feeder between the storage area and the feeder transport device.

14. The component mounting system according to claim 13, wherein: The automatic transport vehicle transports the mounting part feeder to an operation area for performing at least one of a replacement operation of attaching and detaching the component mounting part relative to the mounting part feeder and a maintenance operation of the component mounting part, or a mounting part maintenance device for performing maintenance of the component mounting part.

15. A mounting part feeder, comprising: A mounting member holding unit capable of detachably holding a component mounting member used by a component mounting machine to mount a component on a substrate, and having the same structure as a mounting member station configured in the component mounting machine and capable of automatically replacing a predetermined first replacement position of the component mounting member; and The mounting portion is detachably mounted on the component mounting machine so as to arrange the fixture holding unit at a predetermined second replacement position in the machine.

16. A mounting part feeder, comprising: A mounting member holding unit capable of detachably holding a component mounting member used by a component mounting machine to mount a component on a substrate; A receiving compartment for receiving a plurality of the mounting member holding units; a replacement mechanism that selectively takes out the mounting member holding unit from the storage bin and is disposed at a predetermined replacement position in the component mounting machine that can automatically replace the component mounting member; and The mounting section is mounted on the component mounting machine.

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