Feeder

Abstract

The feeder transports a carrier tape that accommodates components, and is provided with a splicing device that connects the rear end of the carrier tape being transported and the front end of the carrier tape for replenishment by means of a connecting member in order to ensure the connection between the carrier tape being transported and the carrier tape for replenishment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This description relates to feeders. Background Art

[0002] Feeders are known that connect a replenishing carrier tape to a carrier tape being transported (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The carrier tape consists of a base tape and a cover tape adhered to the base tape to seal the opening of the cavity. The carrier tape being transported and the replenishing carrier tape are each wound onto a reel. Each reel is rotatably mounted on a reel shaft provided in the feeder, and the tape is fed out by the rotation of the corresponding tape guide gear.

[0003] The feeder includes a tape connection mechanism for connecting the carrier tape being conveyed and the replenishment carrier tape. The tape connection mechanism includes a thermal bonding plate and a thermal bonding support plate for integrating the carrier tape being conveyed and the replenishment carrier tape by thermal bonding.

[0004] In the feeder described above, when it is detected that the carrier tape being transported has run out of components, the replenishment carrier tape is advanced by the rotation of the tape guide gear. Furthermore, when the leading end of the replenishment carrier tape overlaps the trailing end of the carrier tape being transported, the thermal bonding plate of the tape connection mechanism descends. This process sandwiches the trailing end of the carrier tape being transported and the leading end of the replenishment carrier tape between the thermal bonding plate and the thermal bonding support plate, thermally bonding them together, thereby connecting the carrier tape being transported and the replenishment carrier tape.

[0005] Therefore, according to the above feeder, when the components on the carrier tape being conveyed are exhausted, the replenishment carrier tape can be automatically spliced ​​with the carrier tape being conveyed without the operator's work, so that the conveyance of the carrier tape containing components in the cavity can continue.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 3-75600 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] In the feeder described in Patent Document 1, the carrier tape being transported and the replenishing carrier tape are connected by overlapping them in the thickness direction and then thermally bonding them. However, with this structure, the spacing between the feed holes before and after the joint between the carrier tape being transported and the replenishing carrier tape may deviate from the predetermined spacing, or the strength of the carrier tape during transport may not be ensured.

[0011] The present specification aims to provide a feeder capable of connecting a carrier tape being conveyed and a carrier tape for replenishment by using a structure different from that described in Patent Document 1.

[0012] Means for solving problems

[0013] This specification discloses a feeder that conveys a carrier tape containing components. The feeder includes a splicing device that connects the rear end of the carrier tape being conveyed to the front end of the carrier tape for replenishment using a connecting member.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, since the connection member is used to connect the carrier tape being transported and the carrier tape for replenishment, the connection can be ensured. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the feeder in the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a carrier tape with connecting parts.

[0017] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the front of the feeder.

[0018] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the rear part of the feeder.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the component detection sensor, cutting device, and moving mechanism of the splicing device equipped in the feeder.

[0020] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the cutting device in the operating state and the operation completed state.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the bracket and splicing device equipped with the feeder.

[0022] Figure 8 It is a perspective view showing a state where the belt bracket is released.

[0023] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing the structure of a positioning portion included in the belt bracket.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the structure of a component that detects the replenishment carrier tape in the tape holder.

[0025] Figure 11 This figure shows a state where a carrier tape being transported and a carrier tape for replenishment are connected by a splicing device using a connecting member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Below, use Figures 1 to 11 , an embodiment of the feeder disclosed in the present invention is described.

[0027] 1. Summary

[0028] Feeder 1 is a tape feeder that transports a carrier tape 2 containing components. Feeder 1 is removably mounted in a slot of a component mounting machine installed in a substrate production line that produces electronic substrates. This component mounting machine has multiple slots, capable of accommodating multiple feeders 1. Each feeder 1 feeds components to a component removal position by transporting carrier tape 2, where they are held by a suction nozzle, gripping chuck, etc., attached to the assembly head of the component mounting machine. After being supplied to the component removal position, the components are held by the suction nozzle, etc., and then mounted on the electronic substrate.

[0029] 2. Carrier tape structure

[0030] Carrier tape 2 is a tape extending in its longitudinal direction that accommodates multiple components. These components are electronic components mounted on electronic substrates and range from micro components such as 0201 size (0.2 mm x 0.1 mm) to large components. Carrier tape 2 is wound on a disk-shaped reel 3. Carrier tape 2 can be formed to a width of, for example, 12 mm.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the carrier tape 2 has cavities 2a. The cavities 2a are spaces for accommodating components and are arranged at predetermined intervals (e.g., 4 mm, 8 mm, etc.) in the tape length direction. The carrier tape 2 is a tape formed by joining a base tape 2c having cavities 2a and a cover tape 2d covering the openings of the cavities 2a (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 3 ). The carrier tape 2 is made of a soft material such as resin, plastic, or paper.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2 has feed holes 2b. These are generally circular or elliptical through-holes that engage with the engaging protrusions of the tape guide gear of the feeder 1. The feed holes 2b extend through the tape thickness. They are located at both ends of the tape width. The feed holes 2b are arranged at predetermined intervals (e.g., 4 mm, 8 mm, etc.) along the tape length. The feed holes 2b are arranged in a row along the tape length in the base tape 2c, parallel to the aforementioned cavities 2a.

[0033] It should be noted that the carrier tape 2 may be an embossed tape in which a protrusion protruding downward from a flat surface is provided for each cavity 2a in the base tape 2c, or may be a paper tape in which the openings of the through holes provided in the base tape 2c as the cavities 2a are covered from both sides in the tape thickness direction by a cover tape 2d, or the openings of the cavities 2a provided in a concave shape in the flat surface of the base tape 2c are covered from one side in the tape thickness direction by a cover tape 2d. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 The embossed carrier tape 2 is shown in FIG.

[0034] 3. Feeder structure

[0035] The feeder 1 is an automatic splicing feeder having the function of conveying the carrier tape 2 so that the components can be exposed in a manner that can be taken out at the component taking-out position and having the function of connecting two carrier tapes 2 to each other. Figure 1 As shown, the feeder 1 includes a feeder body 10 , a tape guide 20 , a tape conveying mechanism 30 , a cover tape discharge mechanism 35 , a splicing device 40 , and a control device 90 .

[0036] The feeder body 10 is a main component comprising a frame portion for mounting the tape guide 20, tape conveyor mechanism 30, cover tape discharge mechanism 35, and splicing device 40, as well as a mounting portion for mounting in a slot of a component mounting machine. The feeder body 10 may also include a reel holder that rotatably holds the tape reel 3 wound with the carrier tape 2. The feeder body 10 is formed into a flat shape that allows for attachment and detachment from the slot of a component mounting machine.

[0037] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the feeder body 10 includes a conveyor path 11 for conveying and supporting the carrier tape 2. The conveyor path 11 supports the carrier tape 2 from below. For example, the conveyor path 11 contacts the lower surfaces of the flanges at both ends of the carrier tape 2 in the tape width direction Y, thereby supporting the carrier tape 2. The conveyor path 11 extends along the tape conveyance direction X and has, for example, a U-shaped cross-section. The conveyor path 11 supports the carrier tape 2 at the upper ends of the vertical walls of the U-shaped cross-section in the tape width direction Y.

[0038] The tape guide 20 is a guide component that guides the carrier tape 2 being conveyed. The tape guide 20 is arranged above the conveying path 11. The tape guide 20 is detachably mounted on the front and upper side of the feeder body 10 in the tape conveying direction X. The tape guide 20 is formed into a U-shaped cross section so as to be able to abut against the upper surface and side surfaces of the carrier tape 2. When the carrier tape 2 is conveyed in the tape conveying direction X, it contacts the upper wall and side walls of the tape guide 20 and is guided. The tape guide 20 has: a window portion 21 that opens in the upper wall; and a folding portion 22 that folds back the cover tape 2d peeled off from the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2 to the side opposite to the base tape 2c. The component removal position is located at the window portion 21.

[0039] The carrier tape 2 is inserted into the tape inlet of the feeder body 10 and, while supported by the conveyor path 11, enters the tape guide 20. When the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 is engaged with the tape guide gear on the tape outlet side (described later), the guide gear rotates, and the carrier tape 2 is conveyed in the tape conveyance direction X. Simultaneously with the conveyance of the carrier tape 2, the cover tape 2d of the carrier tape 2 is peeled from the base tape 2c and folded back at the folding portion 22. This exposes the components within the cavity 2a, allowing them to be removed. Once exposed, the components reach the component removal position, where they are held by a nozzle or the like of the component mounter and transferred to the electronic substrate.

[0040] The tape conveyor mechanism 30 is responsible for conveying the carrier tape 2. It includes a tape guide gear that rotates to convey the carrier tape 2, and a drive motor, such as an electric motor, that generates power to rotate the tape guide gear. The tape guide gear is a rotatable disk with an engaging protrusion that inserts into the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 being conveyed. The tape guide gear and the drive motor are located below the conveyor path 11. When the drive motor is driven with the engaging protrusion of the tape guide gear inserted into the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2, the carrier tape 2 is conveyed in coordination with the drive motor.

[0041] It should be noted that it is preferable to arrange the tape guide gear of the tape conveying mechanism 30 close to the position where the cover tape 2d in the feeder 1 is peeled off and the position where the components are removed, in order to prevent the position of the carrier tape 2 in the tape width direction Y. Furthermore, the tape guide gear and the drive motor may be directly connected or indirectly connected via a speed reducer. Furthermore, the drive motor rotates the tape guide gear not only in the direction in which the carrier tape 2 is sequentially conveyed in the tape conveying direction X, but also in the direction opposite to this sequential conveying direction. This is preferable, for example, in order to adjust the position of the carrier tape 2 in the tape conveying direction X or to improve its positioning accuracy.

[0042] The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 is a mechanism for discharging the cover tape 2d, which has been peeled off the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2, out of the feeder main body 10. The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 causes the cover tape 2d, which has been peeled off from the base tape 2c upstream in the tape conveyance direction X of the component removal position of the feeder 1 and folded back so as to pass over the conveyance path 11, to descend along the side of the feeder main body 10 and be discharged.

[0043] The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 includes a winding gear 36, a winding roller 37, and a winding rod 38. The winding gear 36 rotates in a direction to discharge the cover tape 2d in synchronization with the feed of the carrier tape 2 in the tape feed direction X. The winding roller 37 rotates to assist in the discharge of the cover tape 2d. The winding rod 38 is an operating unit for rotating the winding gear 36. Alternatively, the winding roller 37 may be provided at multiple locations to allow the cover tape 2d to be discharged along a predetermined path before it is folded back at the folding section 22 and reaches the winding gear 36.

[0044] The carrier tape 2 is inserted into the tape inlet of the feeder body 10 and supported on the conveyor path 11. The feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 is arranged to engage with the tape guide gear of the tape conveyor mechanism 30 on the tape outlet side. Furthermore, the cover tape 2d of the carrier tape 2 is arranged so that it is completely peeled from the base tape 2c starting from the folded portion 22 upstream of the component removal position in the tape conveyance direction X, and then engages with the winding gear 36 while following a predetermined path.

[0045] As the tape guide gear rotates, the carrier tape 2 is fed in the tape feed direction X. In conjunction with the feed of the carrier tape 2, the cover tape 2d is peeled from the base tape 2c and ejected toward the outside of the feeder 1. This exposes the components within the cavities 2a in the base tape 2c, allowing them to be removed. Once exposed, the components reach the component removal position, where they are held by a nozzle or the like of the component mounter and transferred to the electronic substrate.

[0046] The splicing device 40 connects two carrier tapes 2 (specifically, their cover tapes 2d) together without human intervention. This splicing is performed, for example, to switch from a carrier tape 2 being transported, with a decreasing number of remaining components, to a replenishment carrier tape 2 accommodating a larger number of components, or to switch between different types of carrier tapes 2. The splicing device 40 connects the subsequent carrier tape 2 to the carrier tape 2 being transported by the feeder 1 using a splicing tape 5 as a connecting member.

[0047] Hereinafter, the carrier tape 2 being conveyed as the feeder 1 is referred to as the preceding tape 2F, and the carrier tape 2 being supplied following the preceding tape 2F is referred to as the following tape 2S. Furthermore, the reel 3 around which the preceding tape 2F is wound is referred to as the preceding reel 3F, and the reel 3 around which the following tape 2S is wound is referred to as the following reel 3S.

[0048] The splicing device 40 may be a unit integrated with the feeder 1 or may be a unit detachably provided on the feeder 1. Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the splicing device 40 is a unit integrated with the feeder 1.

[0049] The splicing device 40 is assembled integrally with the feeder 1. Figure 4 As shown, the splicing device 40 includes a unit body 41 , a component detection sensor 42 , a cutting device 50 , a tape holder 60 , a splicing crimping unit 70 , and a moving mechanism 80 .

[0050] The unit body 41 is a main body component that includes a skeletal portion for mounting other components of the splicing device 40. The unit body 41 is integrally provided with the feeder body 10 of the feeder 1. It should be noted that in a configuration in which the splicing device 40 is detachably mounted on the feeder 1, the unit body 41 may include a mounting portion for mounting on the feeder body 10.

[0051] At least a portion of the conveyor path 11 is provided in the unit body 41. The preceding tape 2F pulled out from the preceding tape reel 3F is held in a conveyable manner in the conveyor path 11. The conveyor path 11 provided in the unit body 41 can slide in the vertical direction Z relative to the unit body 41 and, therefore, relative to the feeder body 10 by the moving mechanism 80.

[0052] The component detection sensor 42 detects components stored in the chamber 2a of the leading belt 2F. The component detection sensor 42 is a non-contact or optical sensor, such as a camera, and outputs a signal corresponding to the presence or absence of components in the chamber 2a. The output signal of the component detection sensor 42 is supplied to the control device 90. Based on the output signal of the component detection sensor 42, the control device 90 detects the presence or absence of components in the leading belt 2F. Furthermore, when the control device 90 detects a change from a state of having components in a chamber 2a to a state of having no components in a chamber 2a further behind the chamber 2a, the control device 90 detects the final component in the leading belt 2F (hereinafter referred to as the final component) and determines its position.

[0053] The cutting device 50 is a device for cutting the preceding belt 2F. The cutting device 50 cuts the center portion of the belt length direction between the chambers 2a in the preceding belt 2F. The cutting device 50 is integrally mounted on the conveying path 11 of the feeder body 10. In addition, the cutting device 50 can also be mounted on the unit body 41. Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 (A) and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 5B , the cutting device 50 includes a cutter 51 , a movement guide 52 , a cutter drive 53 , and a pressing portion 54 .

[0054] The cutter 51 is a blade that cuts the leading belt 2F. The cutter 51 is movable in the vertical direction Z relative to the conveyor path 11. The conveyor path 11 has a portion separated front and rear by a gap K in the center portion in the belt conveyance direction X. The cutter 51 can rise through the gap K to a position above the upper surface of the leading belt 2F on the conveyor path 11. The cutter 51 can move between a lower end position, where it does not cut the leading belt 2F, and an upper end position, where it does cut the leading belt 2F.

[0055] The cutter 51 is held by a plate-shaped cutter holding portion 55 and is mounted on the upper end portion of the cutter holding portion 55. In addition, the cutter 51 can be loaded and unloaded relative to the cutter holding portion 55. The cutter 51 moves integrally with the movement of the cutter holding portion 55 in the up-down direction Z. The cutter 51 cuts a predetermined portion on the rear side of the belt conveying direction X relative to the final component among the components accommodated in the preceding belt 2F as a splicing portion. In addition, specifically, the predetermined portion is, for example, a cavity 2a for accommodating the final component and an empty cavity 2a behind it (in Figure 4 The central part of the belt conveying direction X) is represented by the hollow chamber 2e.

[0056] The movable guide portion 52 supports and guides the cutter holder 55 and, consequently, the cutter 51, so that they can move in the vertical direction Z relative to the conveyor path 11. The movable guide portion 52 includes a main body side member 52a mounted on the unit body 41 and a cutter side member 52b mounted on the cutter holder 55. The main body side member 52a extends in a rod-like shape in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, the cutter side member 52b includes a groove or hole corresponding to the main body side member 52a, into which the main body side member 52a fits. The cutter side member 52b moves vertically integrally with the cutter holder 55.

[0057] The cutter drive unit 53 generates a driving force that moves the cutter holding unit 55 and, consequently, the cutter 51 in the vertical direction Z. The cutter drive unit 53 is, for example, an electric motor. The cutter drive unit 53 is mounted on the unit body 41. When a command to cut the preceding tape 2F is issued, the cutter drive unit 53 generates a driving force that moves the cutter 51 from the lower end position to the upper end position.

[0058] The pressing portion 54 is a portion that presses the leading tape 2F so that it cannot move when the cutter 51 cuts the leading tape 2F. The pressing portion 54 is formed so as to contact the upper surface of the leading tape 2F while surrounding the cutter 51 at its upper end without interfering with the cutter 51. Specifically, the pressing portion 54 is formed, for example, in a frame shape or a block shape with a portion cut away from the center in the tape feed direction X, so as to contact the upper surface of a portion sandwiching the cut portion of the leading tape 2F in the tape feed direction X, without interfering with the cutter 51 at its upper end.

[0059] The pressing portion 54 is arranged above the conveyor path 11. The pressing portion 54 is supported by the unit main body 41 so as to be movable in the tape conveying direction X. The pressing portion 54 moves in the tape conveying direction X in synchronization with the movement of the cutter holding portion 55 and the cutter 51 in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, the pressing portion 54 can be moved in conjunction with the movement of the cutter holding portion 55 by receiving a driving force from the cutter driving portion 53 via a linkage mechanism, or can be moved by a driving force from a driving portion provided separately from the cutter driving portion 53.

[0060] The tape holder 60 is a holding portion that holds the subsequent tape 2S pulled from the subsequent tape reel 3S. The subsequent tape 2S is held while positioned by the tape holder 60. While positioned by the tape holder 60, the subsequent tape 2S is not conveyed in the tape conveyance direction X. However, after being connected to the preceding tape 2F, the following tape 2S can be conveyed in the tape conveyance direction X by being integrated with the preceding tape 2F through the tape conveyance mechanism 30.

[0061] The belt holder 60 is arranged above the conveying path 11. The belt holder 60 can position the subsequent belt 2S and can switch between holding and releasing the subsequent belt 2S. The belt holder 60 is provided on the unit body 41. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the belt holder 60 includes a holder base 61 , a holding rail 62 , a rail holding portion 63 , an opening and closing mechanism 64 , a positioning portion 65 , and a belt detection sensor 66 .

[0062] The bracket base 61 is a portion constituting the main body of the belt bracket 60. The bracket base 61 is fixed to the unit main body 41. The bracket base 61 is held in a substantially horizontal state and is formed in a plate shape.

[0063] The holding rail 62 is a rail that contacts the lower surface of the subsequent tape 2S and holds the subsequent tape 2S. The holding rail 62 extends parallel to the tape conveying direction X in the feeder 1. In addition, the upper surface of the holding rail 62 is preferably in a roughly horizontal state, but the rear end side (near the front side) of the holding rail 62 in the tape conveying direction X can also be bent upward from the rear side to the front side in the tape conveying direction X, so that the subsequent tape 2S is held on the holding rail 62 in a state of being stretched from the subsequent tape reel 3S and smoothly bent. A pair of holding rails 62 are provided separately in the tape width direction Y. When holding the subsequent tape 2S, the pair of holding rails 62 are separated by a distance that enables such holding.

[0064] The rail holding portion 63 is a component that holds the holding rail 62. A pair of rail holding portions 63 are provided corresponding to the holding rail 62. Each rail holding portion 63 is upright and arranged in a plate shape. The holding rail 62 is arranged at the lower portion of the inner surface side of the rail holding portion 63. Each rail holding portion 63 is supported on the bracket base 61 in a swingable manner. The rail holding portion 63 can swing around an axis extending in the belt conveying direction X. The rail holding portion 63 swings between a holding position in which the subsequent belt 2S can be held on the holding rail 62 and a release position in which the holding can be released.

[0065] The opening and closing mechanism 64 is a mechanism that causes the rail holding portion 63 in the belt bracket 60 to swing between a holding position and a release position. The opening and closing mechanism 64 can switch between a state of holding the subsequent belt 2S and a state of releasing the holding by the swinging of the rail holding portion 63. The opening and closing mechanism 64 causes the rail holding portion 63 to be in the holding position when holding the subsequent belt 2S, and to be in the release position when releasing the holding of the subsequent belt 2S. The distance between the pair of holding rails 62 becomes a distance that can hold the subsequent belt 2S in the holding position of the rail holding portion 63, and on the other hand, the distance is larger in the release position of the rail holding portion 63 than in the holding position.

[0066] The opening and closing mechanism 64 may also be operated in conjunction with the movement of the moving mechanism 80 described in detail later. The opening and closing mechanism 64 may be operated using a cam mechanism mechanically connected to the moving mechanism 80, or using power generated by an independent electric motor different from the moving mechanism 80.

[0067] The opening and closing mechanism 64 includes a spring portion 64a. The spring portion 64a is, for example, a compression spring that generates a force that urges the rail holding portion 63, which includes the holding rail 62, toward the holding position. The opening and closing mechanism 64 uses the force of the spring portion 64a to hold the rail holding portion 63 in the holding position. The cam mechanism and the external force of the drive motor overcome the force of the spring portion 64a and move the rail holding portion 63 to the released position.

[0068] The subsequent tape 2S is inserted into a space above the pair of holding rails 62 from the rear side of the tape holder 60 in the tape conveying direction X along the tape conveying direction X. Furthermore, when the rail holding portion 63 is in the holding position, both end portions of the subsequent tape 2S in the tape width direction Y are placed on the upper surfaces of the pair of holding rails 62, thereby being held by the holding rails 62.

[0069] The positioning portion 65 is a portion that positions the subsequent belt 2S so that it can be connected to the preceding belt 2F. Figure 9 As shown, the positioning portion 65 has a first stopper 65a and a second stopper 65b.

[0070] The first stopper 65a is a forward end stopper that positions the forward end of the subsequent belt 2S inserted into the belt holder 60 in the belt conveying direction X. The first stopper 65a abuts against the front end of the subsequent belt 2S, thereby limiting further forward insertion of the subsequent belt 2S. Furthermore, the first stopper 65a is preferably configured so as to avoid the splicing tape 5 attached to the front end of the subsequent belt 2S and abut against the front end of the subsequent belt 2S itself.

[0071] The second stopper 65b is a stopper that prevents the subsequent tape 2S from falling off the tape holder 60 when the subsequent tape 2S is held by the tape holder 60. The second stopper 65b is a protrusion that protrudes upward and is formed on the upper surface of the holding rail 62. The second stopper 65b is embedded in the feed hole 2b of the subsequent tape 2S, thereby preventing the subsequent tape 2S from falling off the tape holder 60.

[0072] Alternatively, a plurality of second stoppers 65b may be provided on the holding rail 62 to match the spacing of the feed holes 2b. Alternatively, the second stoppers 65b may be provided on each of the pair of holding rails 62. The second stoppers 65b are configured to release engagement with the feed holes 2b of the subsequent tape 2S when the rail holding portion 63 changes from the holding position to the release position.

[0073] The tape detection sensor 66 is a sensor that detects whether the subsequent tape 2S is positioned on the tape holder 60 in a desired state. A clamp 67 (see FIG. 1 ) whose position changes depending on the presence or absence of the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60 is provided on the holder base 61. Figure 10 The clamp 67 is rotatably supported on the bracket base 61. The clamp 67 is biased rearward in the tape conveyance direction X by its own weight or the force of a biasing member. When the clamp 67 abuts against the leading end of the subsequent tape 2S and is pressed into the subsequent tape 2S, it overcomes this biasing force and moves forward in the tape conveyance direction X. The tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the clamp 67.

[0074] When the leading end of the subsequent tape 2S does not abut the first stopper 65a, the clamp 67 is not pressed forward in the tape feed direction X. In this case, the tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal indicating that the subsequent tape 2S is not positioned on the tape holder 60. On the other hand, when the leading end of the subsequent tape 2S abuts the first stopper 65a, the clamp 67 is pressed forward in the tape feed direction X and rotated relative to the holder base 61. In this case, the tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal indicating that the subsequent tape 2S is positioned on the tape holder 60.

[0075] The output signal of the tape detection sensor 66 is supplied to the control device 90 . The control device 90 detects whether the subsequent tape 2S is present in the tape holder 60 based on the output signal of the tape detection sensor 66 .

[0076] The splicing and crimping section 70 is where the splicing tape 5 is crimped to the rear end of the preceding tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S. The splicing and crimping section 70 is provided on the tape holder 60. The splicing and crimping section 70 is formed in a block or plate shape. Furthermore, the splicing and crimping section 70 is preferably constructed of a material such as rubber sponge to flexibly adapt to the conditions of the top surface of the carrier tape 2.

[0077] The splicing tape 5 is bonded to the upper surface of the rear end of the preceding tape 2F (specifically, its cover tape 2d) and the upper surface of the front end of the following tape 2S (specifically, its cover tape 2d). It should be noted that the splicing tape 5 can be connected between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, only one piece may be provided, or two or more pieces may be provided in parallel.

[0078] When the splicing and crimping section 70 rises through the moving mechanism 80 in the conveying path 11 and reaches the splicing position described later, the front half of the splicing belt 5 is crimped to the rear end of the preceding belt 2F in the up-down direction Z, and the rear half of the splicing belt 5 is crimped to the front end of the subsequent belt 2S in the up-down direction Z.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the splicing tape 5 is held on the tape holder 60 together with the subsequent tape 2S after the rear half thereof is attached to the front end of the subsequent tape 2S. Therefore, the splicing and crimping portion 70 only needs to be able to crimp at least the front half of the splicing tape 5 to the rear end of the preceding tape 2F in the vertical direction Z. However, in order to ensure adhesion between the splicing tape 5 and the subsequent tape 2S, it is preferred that the splicing and crimping portion 70 be able to crimp the rear portion of the splicing tape 5 to the subsequent tape 2S in the vertical direction Z.

[0080] Furthermore, the splicing and pressing portion 70 is provided not only on the belt holder 60 but may also be provided on the conveyor path 11 side in pair with the belt holder 60 side so as to be able to sandwich the front portion of the splicing belt 5 and the rear end portion of the preceding belt 2F in the vertical direction Z and to sandwich the rear portion of the splicing belt 5 and the front end portion of the following belt 2S in the vertical direction Z. The splicing and pressing portion 70 on the conveyor path 11 side may be, for example, a bottom wall that can abut against the lower surface of the preceding belt 2F in the conveyor path 11.

[0081] The moving mechanism 80 is a mechanism that moves the conveying path 11 and the belt holder 60 relative to each other. Specifically, the moving mechanism 80 moves the conveying path 11 relative to the belt holder 60 in the vertical direction Z while the belt holder 60 is fixed to the unit body 41. Figure 5 As shown, the moving mechanism 80 includes a moving guide portion 81 and a moving drive portion 82 .

[0082] The lower position of the conveyor path 11 moved by the moving mechanism 80 is a conveyable position where the connection between the preceding belt 2F and the following belt 2S is restricted and the preceding belt 2F can be conveyed in the belt conveying direction X. Furthermore, the upper position of the conveyor path 11 is a splicing position where the conveyance of the preceding belt 2F is restricted and the aforementioned connection can be performed.

[0083] The movable guide portion 81 supports and guides the conveyor path 11 so that it can move in the vertical direction Z relative to the unit body 41. The movable guide portion 81 includes a main body-side component 81a attached to the unit body 41 and a bracket-side component 81b attached to the conveyor path 11. The main body-side component 81a extends in a rod-like shape in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, the bracket-side component 81b has corresponding grooves or holes in the main body-side component 81a into which the main body-side component 81a fits. The bracket-side component 81b moves vertically integrally with the conveyor path 11.

[0084] The movement drive unit 82 generates the driving force that moves the conveyor path 11 in the vertical direction Z. The movement drive unit 82 is, for example, an electric motor. The movement drive unit 82 is mounted on the unit body 41. When the conveyor path 11 is instructed to rise by a command to splice the preceding belt 2F and the succeeding belt 2S, the movement drive unit 82 causes the conveyor path 11 to rise from a position where it can be conveyed to a position where it can be connected. Furthermore, when the connection is completed or a command to release the splicing is issued, the movement drive unit 82 causes the conveyor path 11 to descend from a position where it can be connected to a position where it can be conveyed.

[0085] The control device 90 controls the operation of the feeder 1 (including the operation of the splicing device 40 and the moving mechanism 80). The control device 90 is primarily composed of a microcomputer. Based on various signals from the tape detection sensor 66 and the component detection sensor 42, the control device 90 controls the driving of the various drive units in the feeder 1. The control device 90 is connected to a control device 91 included in the component mounting machine and can transmit information, including the operating status of the splicing device 40 in the feeder 1, to the control device 91.

[0086] In addition, the connection result may include the positional relationship between the component removal position of the feeder 1 and the rear end of the preceding tape 2F when the preceding tape 2F is cut, the position of the spliced ​​portion of the carrier tape 2 formed by integrating the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S after splicing is completed, etc.

[0087] 4. Feeder action

[0088] With the feeder 1 mounted in the slot of the component mounting machine, the operator pulls the carrier tape 2 wound on the leading tape reel 3F, i.e., the leading tape 2F, from the leading tape reel 3F and inserts it into the tape inlet of the conveyor path 11, which is in a position where the conveyor can be fed, and sets it on the feeder 1. The leading tape 2F is set so that the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 engages with the tape guide gear on the tape outlet side, and the cover tape 2d is completely peeled off from the base tape 2c and engages with the winding gear 36.

[0089] When the feeder 1 is started after the above-described setup, the preceding tape 2F is conveyed by the tape conveyor mechanism 30, thereby repeatedly feeding components within the cavity 2a to the component removal position and exposing them. Components supplied to the component removal position are removed from the cavity 2a by the operation of the component mounter and mounted on an electronic substrate.

[0090] In addition, the carrier tape 2 wound on the subsequent tape reel 3S, i.e., the subsequent tape 2S, can be set on the same feeder 1 at any time during the production of the substrate in which the components of the preceding tape 2F set on the feeder 1 are assembled by the component mounting machine as described above, or before the production of the substrate.

[0091] Specifically, at any time during or before substrate production, the operator first pulls the subsequent tape 2S from the subsequent tape reel 3S and cuts it at a location forward of the component that is at the front of the components housed in the chamber 2a during tape transport (hereinafter referred to as the front component). The operator then adheres the rear half of the splicing tape 5 to the upper surface of the front end of the cut subsequent tape 2S by bonding. The operator then inserts the subsequent tape 2S into the tape inlet of the tape holder 60, bringing the front end of the subsequent tape 2S into contact with the first stopper 65a of the positioning portion 65, and hooks the feed hole 2b onto the second stopper 65b, thereby retaining the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60.

[0092] Furthermore, the rail holding portion 63 of the belt holder 60 may be positioned at the holding position by the opening and closing mechanism portion 64 when the holding rail 62 holds the subsequent belt 2S. For example, the rail holding portion 63 may be positioned at the release position when the operator inserts the subsequent belt 2S into the belt inlet of the belt holder 60, and then may be positioned to the holding position when the clamp 67 contacts and presses the front end of the subsequent belt 2S and the belt detection sensor 66 detects the presence of the subsequent belt 2S.

[0093] As described above, when the following tape 2S is held by the tape holder 60, the tape detection sensor 66 detects that the following tape 2S is positioned at the tape holder 60 and outputs a signal indicating this state to the control device 90 of the feeder 1. Thus, the control device 90 of the feeder 1 recognizes that the following tape 2S is set at the tape holder 60 and recognizes that the following tape 2S is ready for connection with the preceding tape 2F.

[0094] When the number of components remaining in the leading belt 2F decreases after the aforementioned substrate production, the control device 90 detects the final component in the leading belt 2F and determines its position based on the output signal of the component detection sensor 42. Upon detecting the final component, the control device 90 first drives the drive motor of the belt conveyor mechanism 30 to adjust the conveyance position of the leading belt 2F so that the center of the cavity 2a containing the final component and the empty cavity 2e in the belt conveyance direction X in the leading belt 2F are joined. Furthermore, the conveyance direction and distance of the leading belt 2F are determined by, for example, the position of the component detection sensor 42 and the position of the cutter 51 of the cutting device 50.

[0095] When the control device 90 completes the conveyance of the preceding tape 2F for positioning the splicing portion, the control device 90 then drives the cutter drive unit 53 of the cutting device 50 to move the cutter holding unit 55 and the cutter 51 from the lower end position ( Figure 5 The state shown in FIG) rises, and the pressing portion 54 moves upward toward the cutter 51 (refer to FIG). Figure 6(A)). When this process is performed, before the cutter 51 reaches the upper end position, the preceding tape 2F is cut at the above-mentioned splicing portion while being pressed by the pressing portion 54 so as to be immovable.

[0096] When the leading tape 2F is cut, the portion of the leading tape 2F that is closer to the front side than the splicing portion (specifically, the side where the cavity 2a containing the component is located) is pressed by the pressing portion 54, and the portion of the leading tape 2F that is closer to the rear side than the splicing portion (specifically, the side where the empty cavity 2e is located) is used as the waste tape 2Z (see FIG. Figure 4 ) and discharged outside the feeder 1.

[0097] In addition, when the cutter 51 reaches the upper end position (refer to Figure 6 (B)), thereafter, the cutter holding portion 55 and the cutter 51 are lowered from the upper end position and returned to the lower end position, and the pressing portion 54 returns from the upper position relative to the cutter 51 to the original position (refer to Figure 5 ). At this time, the control device 90 stores the positional relationship between the component taking-out position of the feeder 1 and the rear end of the preceding belt 2F.

[0098] When the preceding tape 2F is cut, the control device 90 drives the drive motor of the tape conveying mechanism 30 to adjust the conveyance position of the preceding tape 2F so that the tape conveyance direction X position of the rear end of the preceding tape 2F, which accommodates the final component, coincides with the tape conveyance direction X position of the front end of the following tape 2S held by the tape holder 60. During this conveyance process, the tape conveyance direction X position of the rear end of the preceding tape 2F coincides with the tape conveyance direction X position of the front end of the following tape 2S, while the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S are separated in the vertical direction Z.

[0099] The conveying direction and distance of the preceding belt 2F can be determined based on, for example, the positional changes of the rear end of the preceding belt 2F as the conveyor path 11 ascends. Furthermore, the rear end of the preceding belt 2F and the front end of the following belt 2S can be positioned so that the distance between the feed holes 2b before and after the joint between the preceding belt 2F and the following belt 2S is a multiple of 4 mm. The rear end of the preceding belt 2F and the front end of the following belt 2S can abut against each other when connected, or a gap L can be separated therefrom. This gap L is set to correspond to the distance between the feed holes 2b, for example, within a range of 8 mm or less. Specifically, it is set so that the distance between the feed holes 2b before and after the joint is a multiple of 4 mm.

[0100] In addition, as described above, when a gap L is left between the rear end of the preceding belt 2F and the front end of the subsequent belt 2S, after the preceding belt 2F and the subsequent belt 2S are connected, when the cavities 2a before and after the spliced ​​portion in the carrier belt 2 reach the component taking-out position of the feeder 1, the conveying control of the feeder 1, that is, the drive motor control of the belt conveying mechanism 30, can be corrected according to the spacing between the feed holes 2b before and after the spliced ​​portion.

[0101] Next, the control device 90 drives the movement drive unit 82 of the movement mechanism 80 to connect the preceding belt 2F of the conveyor path 11 to the following belt 2S of the belt holder 60, thereby raising the conveyor path 11 to a splicing position. During this process, the conveyor path 11 slides upward relative to the belt holder 60 in a direction toward the splicing position. When the conveyor path 11 reaches the splicing position, the splicing crimping unit 70 of the splicing device 40 crimps the splicing belt 5 onto the preceding belt 2F and the following belt 2S, thereby connecting the preceding belt 2F and the following belt 2S.

[0102] When the connection between the preceding belt 2F and the following belt 2S is completed, the control device 90 then drives the moving drive unit 82 of the moving mechanism 80 to lower the conveying path 11 to the conveying ready position, and operates the opening and closing mechanism 64 of the belt holder 60 to change the position of the rail holding unit 63 from the holding position to the release position. This operation causes the conveying path 11 to slide downward in the separation direction relative to the belt holder 60, and the rail holding unit 63 to open to the release position.

[0103] The descent of the conveyor path 11 by the moving mechanism 80 and the positional change of the rail holding portion 63 to the release position by the opening and closing mechanism 64 of the tape holder 60 can be performed in conjunction with each other, or can be performed at different times. Furthermore, the descent of the conveyor path 11 by the moving mechanism 80 can be temporarily stopped at an intermediate position before the conveyor path 11 reaches the lowest position at which it can be conveyed. This descent stop is performed, for example, to reduce stress applied to the spliced ​​portion of the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S in the carrier tape 2, and can be continued until the spliced ​​portion moves toward the feeder body 10.

[0104] When the rail holding portion 63 reaches the release position, the subsequent belt 2S is released from the state of being held by the holding rail 62. Furthermore, when the conveyor path 11 is lowered to the conveyable position, the preceding belt 2F and the subsequent belt 2S connected to the preceding belt 2F are integrated with each other and installed on the feeder 1. The belt conveying mechanism 30 operates to allow conveyance in the belt conveying direction X. Furthermore, when the subsequent belt 2S is integrated with the preceding belt 2F by splicing and the holding of the belt holder 60 is released, the next subsequent belt 2S can be inserted and installed relative to the belt holder 60.

[0105] After the connection between the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S is completed, the control device 90 stores the position of the splicing part of the carrier tape 2 formed by integrating the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S, and notifies the control device 91 of the upper component mounting machine of the situation that the carrier tape 2 for taking out components before and after the position of the splicing part is switched from the preceding tape 2F to the subsequent tape 2S.

[0106] Thus, the feeder 1 includes a splicing device 40 that connects the preceding belt 2F, which is being transported and supported by the conveyor path 11, and the subsequent supply belt 2S, which is held by the belt holder 60, via the splicing belt 5. Therefore, the connection between the preceding belt 2F, which is being transported and supported by the conveyor path 11, and the subsequent supply belt 2S, which is held by the belt holder 60, can be ensured. Furthermore, according to this configuration, splicing is performed with the rear end of the preceding belt 2F and the front end of the subsequent belt 2S in abutment with each other, thereby ensuring superior connection of the splicing belt 5.

[0107] Specifically, because the cover tape 2d of the preceding tape 2F and the cover tape 2d of the subsequent tape 2S are connected via the splicing tape 5, the base tape 2c and cover tape 2d of the preceding tape 2F, and the base tape 2c and cover tape 2d of the subsequent tape 2S, do not overlap in the tape thickness direction after the connection using the splicing tape 5. Therefore, after the connection, the cover tape 2d of the preceding tape 2F and the cover tape 2d of the subsequent tape 2S can be continuously peeled off from the base tape 2c without requiring any special work. In other words, the cover tape 2d can be continuously peeled off before and after the joint between the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S, without requiring any peeling work by the operator. Therefore, the carrier tape 2 can be transported after the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S are connected, without increasing the operator's workload.

[0108] The splicing device 40 also includes a cutting device 50 for cutting the preceding tape 2F, which is being fed and supported by the conveyor path 11. This cutting device 50 can remove unnecessary portions of the preceding tape 2F (specifically, portions containing empty cavities 2e located further rearward of the final component cavities 2a in the tape feed direction X) after connecting the preceding tape 2F to the subsequent tape 2S, leaving only the necessary portions. Consequently, in the connected carrier tape 2, the components contained in the cavities 2a can be kept continuous before and after the joint between the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S. This can reduce the complexity of the carrier tape 2 conveyance control and simplify the conveyance control.

[0109] The splicing device 40 also includes a component detection sensor 42 for detecting components housed in the leading tape 2F. This configuration allows the component detection sensor 42 to detect the final component in the leading tape 2F before the cutting device 50 cuts the leading tape 2F. Furthermore, based on the detection of the final component, the leading tape 2F can be conveyed in the tape conveyance direction X by the tape conveyor mechanism 30 to adjust the splicing position of the leading tape 2F. Consequently, the cutting device 50 can cut the leading tape 2F at an appropriate position immediately after the final component in the tape conveyance direction X. This eliminates cavities 2a containing no components in the connected carrier tape 2, enabling efficient control of the conveyance of the carrier tape 2.

[0110] The feeder 1 also includes a moving mechanism 80 for relatively moving the conveyor path 11 that conveys and supports the preceding tape 2F and the tape holder 60 that holds the succeeding tape 2S. The splicing device 40 connects the rear end of the preceding tape 2F to the front end of the succeeding tape 2S, with the conveyor path 11 and the tape holder 60 positioned in a splicing position by relative movement of the moving mechanism 80.

[0111] The movement of the conveyor path 11 toward the tape holder 60 by the moving mechanism 80 and the splicing by the splicing device 40 can be performed even during substrate production by the component mounter, as long as the subsequent tape 2S is held on the tape holder 60 in a manner that allows for splicing. Therefore, the carrier tape 2 can be replenished without significant downtime during substrate production by the component mounter, thereby improving the operating rate of the device.

[0112] Furthermore, as long as the subsequent tape 2S is held on the tape holder 60 in a splicing-ready state, the movement of the conveyor path 11 toward the tape holder 60 by the moving mechanism 80 and the splicing by the splicing device 40 are automatically performed upon detection of the final component on the preceding tape 2F, without requiring any operator intervention. Therefore, even when the remaining components on the preceding tape 2F decrease during board production by the component mounting machine, the carrier tape 2 can be replenished without requiring the operator to splice the preceding tape 2F with the subsequent tape 2S. This reduces the operator's workload, improves production efficiency, and achieves labor-saving measures.

[0113] Furthermore, the operator can hold the subsequent belt 2S to the belt holder 60 at any time before the preceding belt 2F and the subsequent belt 2S are connected. Therefore, the operator can hold the subsequent belt 2S to the belt holder 60 at any time before the preceding belt 2F and the subsequent belt 2S are connected, thereby increasing the operator's operational freedom and improving operational efficiency.

[0114] Furthermore, the splicing device 40 is integrated with the feeder 1. Furthermore, the moving mechanism 80 moves the conveyor path 11 relative to the tape holder 60 between a conveyance position and a splicing position. Therefore, a single feeder 1 can be used to convey the carrier tape 2 and replenish the carrier tape 2 when the remaining components are low.

[0115] Furthermore, the feeder 1 includes a control device 90 that controls the splicing device 40. The control device 90 then transmits the connection result of the splicing device 40 connecting the preceding tape 2F being conveyed and the subsequent tape 2S for replenishment to the control device 91 of the component mounter. Upon receiving the connection result from the splicing device 40 from the control device 90 of the feeder 1, the control device 91 of the component mounter associates the connection result with the identification information (ID) of the feeder 1 and utilizes it for subsequent board production and board information within the component mounter. For example, the control device 91 can recognize that the components of the carrier tape 2 being conveyed have switched from those on the preceding tape 2F to those on the subsequent tape 2S, and can distinguish whether the components to be mounted on the board or already mounted on the board are those on the preceding tape 2F or those on the subsequent tape 2S.

[0116] However, in the above-described embodiment, the moving mechanism 80 that moves the conveyor path 11 and the belt holder 60 relative to each other slides the conveyor path 11 in the vertical direction Z. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the moving mechanism 80 may slide the belt holder 60 in the vertical direction Z, or may slide both the conveyor path 11 and the belt holder 60 in the vertical direction Z.

[0117] In the above-described embodiment, the following belt 2S is held by the belt holder 60 with the splicing belt 5 attached to its front end in advance by the operator, and the splicing device 40 includes a splicing crimping portion 70. Furthermore, when the moving mechanism 80 slides the conveyor path 11 in the vertical direction Z and the conveyor path 11 reaches the connectable position from the conveyable position side, the preceding belt 2F on the conveyor path 11 is pressed against the splicing belt 5 by the splicing crimping portion 70, thereby connecting the preceding belt 2F to the following belt 2S of the belt holder 60.

[0118] However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the subsequent tape 2S may be held on the tape holder 60 without the splicing tape 5 being attached, and the splicing device 40 may include a robot or the like that takes the splicing tape 5 from the splicing tape storage unit and affixes it to at least one of the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S before the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S are connected. The affixing of the splicing tape 5 by the robot or the like may be performed, for example, after the conveying path 11 reaches the splicing position from the conveyable position side due to the sliding movement of the moving mechanism 80.

[0119] In the above-described embodiment, the splicing device 40 is integrally provided with the feeder 1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the splicing device 40 may also be detachably provided on the feeder 1. Furthermore, in this modified configuration, the portion of the splicing device 40 that is attachable to and detachable from the feeder 1 may comprise the entire splicing device 40, or may be limited to a portion of the splicing device 40.

[0120] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the control device 90 of the feeder 1 transmits the connection result of the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S by the splicing device 40 to the control device 91 of the component mounter. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the control device 90 may also transmit the connection result to a host computer 92 connected to the component mounter for communication. With the structure of this modified embodiment, the host computer can utilize the connection results of each splicing device 40 for subsequent board production and board information in all component mounters within the factory.

[0121] Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and variations, and various modifications can be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the present disclosure discloses not only the technical ideas indicated by the reference relationships described in the claims at the time of the application, but also the technical ideas of appropriately combining the matters described in the claims.

[0122] Description of Reference Numerals

[0123] 1: Feeder, 2: Carrier tape, 2a: Chamber, 2b: Feed hole, 2c: Base tape, 2d: Cover tape, 2F: Leading tape, 2S: Following tape, 3: Tape reel, 3F: Leading tape reel, 3S: Following tape reel, 10: Feeder body, 11: Conveyor path, 20: Tape guide, 30: Tape conveying mechanism, 35: Cover tape discharge mechanism, 40: Splicing device, 41: Unit body, 42: Component detection sensor, 50: Cutting device, 51: Cutter, 60: Tape bracket, 70: Splicing and crimping part, 80: Moving mechanism, 90, 91: Control device, 92: Main computer.

Claims

1. A feeder for conveying a carrier tape containing components, wherein: The feeder includes a splicing device that connects the rear end portion of the carrier tape being conveyed to the front end portion of the carrier tape for replenishment using a connecting member.

2. The feeder according to claim 1, wherein The splicing device includes a cutting device for cutting the carrier tape being conveyed.

3. The feeder according to claim 2, wherein The splicing device includes a component detection sensor that detects the components accommodated in the carrier tape being conveyed.

4. The feeder according to claim 3, wherein The cutting device cuts a predetermined portion located behind a final component detected by the component detection sensor and accommodated in the carrier tape being conveyed.

5. The feeder according to claim 4, wherein The feeder includes a moving mechanism that relatively moves a conveying path for supporting the carrier tape being conveyed and a tape holder for holding the carrier tape for replenishment. The splicing device connects the rear end of the carrier tape being conveyed and cut by the cutting device, which is positioned by the relative movement of the conveyance path and the tape holder by the moving mechanism, to the front end of the replenishing carrier tape. The feeder according to claim 5 , wherein: The feeder is provided with a control device for controlling the splicing device. The control device transmits the connection result of the carrier tape being conveyed and the carrier tape for replenishment by the splicing device to a component mounting machine or a host computer. The host computer and the component mounting machine are connected in a communicable manner.

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