Management system, feeder, management method, and mounting machine

Abstract

A management system (1) manages a bulk feeder (40) that supplies components in a state in which accessories (41) for supplying the components to a supply position are attached, the management system being provided with: the bulk feeder (40) held by a holding unit (12a); and a management unit that manages type information indicating the components that can be supplied by the bulk feeder (40). Furthermore, the accessory (41) is provided with a detected part (41a) and the like, and the bulk feeder (40) held by the holding part (12a) outputs, to a management unit, type information on the basis of information acquired via the detected part (41a) and the like of the accessory (41) attached to the bulk feeder (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a management system, a feeder, a management method, and an installation machine. Background Technology

[0002] A component mounting apparatus uses a feeder for supplying components. Since there may be multiple feeders mounted in the component mounting apparatus, management of the feeders is required. Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration that manages the feeder by associating information (e.g., information indicating the type of electronic component) obtained by reading a barcode attached to a reel provided on the feeder.

[0003] In addition to the belt feeder mentioned above, bulk material feeders are known as feeders, which are feeders equipped with a box for holding components in a bulk state. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a bulk material feeder that includes a supply member and a feeder body. The supply member has a supply position for supplying components discharged from the box containing components to a component mounting head for adsorption. The supply member is detachably assembled in the feeder body.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6825146

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 5406682 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] Managing a feeder that supplies components in a state where it is equipped with supply elements can easily become complex, and therefore, it is desirable to simplify management. However, the technologies in Patent Documents 1 and 2 still have room for improvement in terms of simplifying feeder management.

[0010] Therefore, this disclosure provides a management system, a feeder, a management method, and an installation machine that can easily manage a feeder that supplies components in a state where it is equipped with supply components.

[0011] Methods for solving problems

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a management system that manages a feeder that supplies components in a state where a supply member for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. The management system includes: the feeder held by a holding member; and a management unit that manages type information indicating components that can be supplied by the feeder. A detection unit is provided in the supply member, and the feeder held by the holding member outputs the type information, based on information obtained by the detection unit of the supply member assembled on the feeder, to the management unit.

[0013] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a feeder that supplies components in a state in which a supply member for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. The feeder includes: a communication unit that outputs type information indicating the type of the component that can be supplied by the feeder to a management unit; a feeder body that can assemble the supply member; and the supply member that is assembled in the feeder body, wherein a detection unit is provided in the supply member, and the communication unit outputs the type information based on information obtained via the detection unit to the management unit.

[0014] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a management method for managing a feeder that supplies components in a state in which a supply member for supplying components to a supply position is assembled, wherein a detection unit is provided in the supply member, and the management method outputs type information that is type information based on information obtained via the detection unit of the supply member assembled in the feeder, and type information indicating the components that can be supplied by the feeder, wherein the feeder is held by a holding unit.

[0015] One aspect of the installation machine disclosed herein includes: a feeder that supplies components in a state where a supply member for supplying components to a supply position is assembled, the feeder having a baffle opening mechanism that allows components to be discharged from a component discharge port of a box by moving a baffle provided in the box containing the components; a holding unit that holds the feeder; and a control unit that controls the baffle opening mechanism if it is determined, based on type information indicating that the supply member assembled in the feeder is a suitable supply member, the type information including information based on information obtained via a detection unit of the supply member assembled in the feeder, the feeder being held by the holding unit.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] Through one method disclosed herein, a management system that can easily manage feeders can be realized. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the general structure of the management system involved in the implementation method.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the method for identifying accessories involved in the implementation method.

[0020] Figure 3 It is a chart showing the relationship between the test results of the testing department and the type of accessories.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the concept of a communication pipeline in the management system involved in the implementation.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the management system involved in the implementation method. Detailed Implementation

[0023] (How this disclosure came about)

[0024] As described in the "Problems the Invention Intends to Solve" section above, the technologies of Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 still have room for improvement in terms of the simplicity of managing the feeder. For example, in the management of the bulk material feeder in Patent Document 2, if a storage unit for storing unique identification information is provided in the supply member, and the supply member is managed based on the recorded identification information, the reliability of management can be improved. However, compared to the management of the supply device described in Patent Document 1, it is more complex. In other words, it is difficult to manage the feeder simply in conventional methods, especially in the simple management of bulk material feeders. Furthermore, the feeder can supply components while the supply member is assembled.

[0025] Therefore, the inventors have carefully studied the management system, feeder, management method and installation machine that can easily manage the feeder, and proposed the management system, feeder, management method and installation machine as shown below.

[0026] Furthermore, the embodiments described below are all general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, constituent elements, arrangement positions of constituent elements, connection methods, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are all examples, and their purpose is not to limit this disclosure. Moreover, constituent elements in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent technical solution are described as arbitrary constituent elements.

[0027] Furthermore, the figures are schematic diagrams and not rigorous illustrations. Therefore, for example, the scale may not be consistent across different figures. Additionally, substantially identical components are labeled with the same symbols across different figures, and redundant descriptions have been omitted or simplified.

[0028] Furthermore, in this specification, numerical values ​​and numerical ranges are not only expressions of strict meaning, but also include expressions of substantially equivalent ranges, such as expressions of approximately a few percent (or approximately 10%) of difference.

[0029] (Implementation Method)

[0030] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 5 This will be used to explain the management system, etc., involved in this implementation method.

[0031] [1. The Structure of the Management System]

[0032] First refer to Figures 1 to 4 This embodiment describes a management system equipped with a feeder. Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the general configuration of the management system 1 according to this embodiment. The management system 1 is a system that manages a bulk material feeder 40 equipped with an accessory 41 (an example of a supply component), which includes a supply position where components are supplied. Furthermore, the feeder managed by the management system 1 is not limited to the bulk material feeder 40; it can be any feeder that requires switching between supply components and other accessory components depending on the type of component. The feeder can be, for example, a belt feeder.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the management system 1 includes a production line 10, a production line management device 20, and a comprehensive management device 30. Furthermore, the number of production lines 10, production line management devices 20, and comprehensive management devices 30 included in the management system 1 is not specifically limited, and there can be multiple such devices.

[0034] In production line 10, mounting substrates are produced by mounting components housed in box 50 onto substrates brought in from the upstream side, and the produced mounting substrates are then moved to the downstream side. Production line 10 is, for example, a manufacturing production line for manufacturing mounting substrates, and has one or more (e.g., multiple) component mounting devices 11. Furthermore, in addition to the component mounting devices 11, production line 10 is also implemented by various devices for substrate supply, solder printing operations, and reflow soldering operations. The substrate is an example of an object.

[0035] The component mounting apparatus 11 is an apparatus for mounting components supplied from a bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., a supply unit 12 provided by the bulk material feeder 40) onto a substrate. The component mounting apparatus 11 includes a component mounting mechanism, various sensors, a power supply unit, and a control unit, etc. The component mounting mechanism includes the supply unit 12, a base having a supply unit mounting section for assembling the supply unit 12, and a mounting head for mounting (installing) the components supplied by the bulk material feeder 40 onto the substrate. The component mounting apparatus 11 is an example of a mounting apparatus and a mounting machine.

[0036] The supply unit 12 is a device detachably mounted to the supply unit assembly section (not shown) of the component mounting device 11 for supplying components (e.g., electronic components) used in the component mounting device 11. The supply unit 12 is configured to include a trolley 12b having a holding portion 12a for assembling a bulk material feeder 40. The holding portion 12a assembles one or more (e.g., multiple) bulk material feeders 40.

[0037] In addition, in this specification, "detachable" means assembling one object into another object and removing the other object from another object in a manner that does not damage either object.

[0038] The mounting head has one or more component suction nozzles, which are nozzles used to suction components supplied to the supply position of the bulk feeder 40.

[0039] Furthermore, while the example described above illustrates the placement of the holding part 12a in the component mounting device 11, it is not a limitation. The holding part 12a can also be placed in a preparation device (not shown) for performing preparation operations related to the use of the bulk material feeder 40 prior to production. The preparation device can, for example, be implemented by a supply unit 12 assembled before being mounted to the component mounting device 11. The preparation device, for example, is temporarily stored in a location different from the production line in the production area, and is exchanged with the supply unit 12 or the bulk material feeder 40 when the components in the supply unit 12 currently in use in the component mounting device 11 are used up.

[0040] The production line management device 20 is an information processing device that controls the various components of the production line 10. For example, the production line management device 20 controls the production of the production line 10 based on a production plan obtained from the integrated management device 30. The production line management device 20 is implemented, for example, by a personal computer or the like. Furthermore, the production line management device 20 is, for example, located in or near the same production workshop as the production line 10.

[0041] The production line management device 20 can be communicatively connected to both the production line 10 and the integrated management device 30, relaying information from one to the other. Furthermore, the production line management device 20 can be configured to allow production status input by workers in the production workshop, or to provide production status updates to such workers.

[0042] The integrated management device 30 is an information processing device that is connected to the production line management device 20 and collects and manages information on the various components of the production line 10. The integrated management device 30 manages the type information output from the communication unit 43 of the bulk material feeder 40. In this embodiment, the integrated management device 30 obtains type information based on the bulk material feeder 40, which is equipped with an accessory 41, and performs prescribed processing using the obtained type information.

[0043] Type information is information based on information detected from accessory 41, such as identification information (e.g., identification number) used to identify the bulk material feeder 40 corresponding to accessory 41. Type information includes, for example, information relating to at least one (e.g., both size and shape) of the component that can be supplied to accessory 41, such as size, shape, type, and tolerance (supplier). Information relating to at least one (e.g., both) of the component's size and type is information indicating the type (variety) of accessory 41. Furthermore, when multiple accessories 41 of the same type exist, detailed information about accessory 41, such as which accessory 41 of the same type is being assembled, is not included in the type information. As information relating to accessory 41, it is sufficient to include at least information indicating the type of the assembled accessory 41; for example, it may only include information indicating the type of the assembled accessory 41.

[0044] The prescribed processing includes, for example, determining whether components stored in the box 50 of the bulk material feeder 40 can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40 based on type information (e.g., whether the combination of components and accessories 41 in the box 50 is correct). For example, when the bulk material feeder 40 is equipped with the box 50 containing components, the integrated management device 30 determines, based on type information, whether the components stored in the box 50 can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40.

[0045] The integrated management device 30 stores the type (type information) of the feeder used to make this determination. The type (type information) of the feeder is information that corresponds to the position of the holding part 12a, i.e., the slot position, and the type of the bulk feeder 40 according to each type of substrate being produced, such as information that can be obtained from the production plan. Figure 1The example shows that a "Type A" bulk material feeder 40 is planned to be installed in slot positions "P1" and "P2", a "Type B" bulk material feeder 40 is planned to be installed in slot position "P3", a "Type C" bulk material feeder 40 is planned to be installed in slot position "P4", a "Type D" bulk material feeder 40 is planned to be installed in slot position "P5", and a "Type E" bulk material feeder 40 is planned to be installed in slot position "P6".

[0046] The type of feeder (type information) is generated and stored in the integrated management device 30, for example, before the bulk material feeder 40 is held to the holding unit 12a. The type of feeder (type information) can be generated by the integrated management device 30 according to the production plan, or it can be generated by human input.

[0047] Furthermore, the integrated management device 30 does not store accessory identification information (e.g., the ID of accessory 41) used to identify accessory 41. Additionally, in Figure 1 In the case of the example, as identification information, only "Type A" to "Type E" exist, so the type information becomes the information that indicates any one of "Type A" to "Type E".

[0048] The integrated management unit 30 is configured separately from the production line 10. The integrated management unit 30 can be configured, for example, in a space within the factory different from the production workshop, or it can be configured at a remote location outside the factory. The integrated management unit 30 can be implemented using a server device. The integrated management unit 30 is an example of a management department.

[0049] The bulk material feeder 40 is an object in which the box 50 is detachably assembled, and includes an accessory 41 and a feeder body 42. Furthermore, the box 50 is assembled to the feeder body 42. The bulk material feeder 40 is an example of a feeder.

[0050] Accessory 41 is assembled to the feeder body 42 to transport components (e.g., multiple components) stored in the box 50 to the feeding position. Accessory 41 is detachably assembled to the feeder body 42. Accessory 41 is an example of a feeding component.

[0051] Accessory 41 is a component designed according to the dimensions of the part, and multiple types are prepared according to the shape and size of the part. The type of accessory 41 corresponds to the size of the part that accessory 41 can transport, and different types of accessory 41 indicate that the accessory 41 can transport different sizes of parts.

[0052] For example, if the accessory 41 does not correspond to the component stored in the box 50 of the accessory 41, the accessory 41 will have difficulty transporting the component to the supply position. Therefore, in the management system 1, the integrated management device 30 determines whether the type of the accessory 41 corresponds to the type of the component stored in the box 50 of the accessory 41. Furthermore, for example, if the component is a cube or cuboid, the dimensions of the component are its length, width, and height. The size of the component refers to the value of its length, width, and height. The shape of the component refers to the ratio of its length, width, and height.

[0053] The feeder body 42 is positioned relative to the holding portion 12a of the component mounting device 11. In other words, the feeder body 42 is held by the holding portion 12a. Furthermore, the feeder body 42 can be fitted with one of several different types of accessories 41.

[0054] In addition, the bulk material feeder 40 also includes a communication unit 43, a baffle opening mechanism 44, and an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader 45. Furthermore, the bulk material feeder 40 also includes a control unit (not shown) that performs various components, processes, and controls. The communication unit 43, baffle opening mechanism 44, RFID reader 45, and control unit can be integrated into the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the feeder body 42).

[0055] The communication unit 43 is a device for communicating with various devices included in the management system 1. For example, the communication unit 43 outputs information to the integrated management device 30 indicating the type of components that can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40. The communication unit 43 is configured to include a communication circuit (communication module).

[0056] The baffle opening mechanism 44 is a mechanism for moving the baffle 52 of the box 50 from a closed position (the position where components cannot be discharged from the component discharge port, i.e., the position where components cannot be supplied to the bulk material feeder 40) to an open position (the position where the baffle 52 is open, i.e., the position where components can be supplied to the bulk material feeder 40) where components can be discharged from the component discharge port. When the pin (not shown) is engaged with the baffle 52, the baffle opening mechanism 44 moves the pin along the bottom surface of the box 50 via a drive unit (not shown, e.g., a motor), thereby moving the baffle 52. However, the configuration of the baffle opening mechanism 44 is not limited to this.

[0057] The RFID reader 45 reads tag information from the RFID tag 51 on the box 50 assembled in the feeder body 42. The RFID reader 45 uses an antenna capable of sending and receiving signals to the RFID tag 51 to read the tag information. The tag information stored in the RFID tag 51 includes at least one of the following: information indicating the size of the component; information indicating the type of component (identification information); and the tag's own identification code (e.g., Electronic Product Code: EPC). Furthermore, the tag information may also include information indicating the quantity of components (remaining quantity), information indicating the service life of the components, etc.

[0058] Furthermore, the accessory 41 and the feeder body 42 are configured to detect the accessory 41. The accessory 41 has a detection section (e.g., described later). Figure 2 The detected parts 41a, 41b, and 41c shown are shown. The feeder body 42 has a detection part (for example, described later). Figure 2 The detection units 42a, 42b, and 42c are shown. Regarding the detected unit and the detection unit, refer to... Figure 2 This will be described later. Furthermore, thereafter, without distinguishing between the parts to be tested 41a, 41b, and 41c, they will be referred to simply as the part to be tested 41a, etc., and without distinguishing between the parts to be tested 42a, 42b, and 42c, they will be referred to simply as the part to be tested 42a, etc.

[0059] Based on the detection results from the detection unit 42a, the control unit outputs information to the integrated management device 30 indicating the type of components that can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40. The control unit determines the type information based on the state in which the accessory 41 is assembled to the feeder body 42, classifying it as a type of bulk material feeder 40. This type information varies depending on the type of accessory 41 assembled to the feeder body 42. For example, if the feeder body 42 is the same but the type of accessory 41 changes, the control unit determines different type information. Conversely, if the types of accessories 41 assembled to multiple feeder body 42s are the same, the control unit determines the same type information.

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit can determine identification information (type information) based on the identification information of the feeder (e.g., the identification information of the feeder body 42) and the detection results of the detection unit 42a, and output the determined type information to the integrated management device 30. In this case, the type information is different depending on the combination of the accessory 41 and the feeder body 42.

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit can output both the feeder's identification information (e.g., the identification information of the feeder body 42) and the type information based on the detection results of the detection unit 42a to the integrated management device 30. Then, the integrated management device 30 can establish a correspondence between the type information obtained from the control unit and the feeder's identification information and store it in the storage unit. The accessory 41 is detachably mounted to the feeder body 42, but the bulk feeder 40 not used in production is usually stored with the accessory 41 mounted on the feeder body 42. Furthermore, the accessory 41 is not removed from the feeder body 42 for production until the components in the box 50 are used up. Therefore, by storing the bulk feeder 40 in the storage unit in combination with the accessory 41 and the feeder body 42, it is possible to formulate usage plans for the bulk feeder 40, calculate production time, calculate the time of production stoppage due to insufficient bulk feeder 40, and perform simulations, etc.

[0062] The integrated management device 30 uses the type information obtained from the control unit as lower-level type information, and establishes corresponding storage type information as upper-level type information using the feeder identification information obtained from the control unit along with the lower-level type information. When the lower-level type information differs from the upper-level type information, the upper-level type information stored in the storage unit can be updated based on the lower-level type information. Therefore, when the bulk material feeder 40 is mounted on the component mounting device 11, the lower-level type information obtained from the control unit is the latest type information, thus ensuring that the upper-level type information stored in the storage unit remains up-to-date.

[0063] Here, the type of accessory 41 refers to the size and shape of the components that can be supplied by accessory 41. That is, accessories with the same "size" determined by the size and shape of the components that can be supplied by accessory 41 are considered to be accessories of the same type 41, and accessories with at least one different size and shape of the components are considered to be accessories of different types 41. Furthermore, even if the "size" is the same, but the tolerance is different, it may not be able to be properly transported to the supply location. Therefore, even if the "size" is the same but the "tolerance" (difference relative to the specification) is different, they can be considered to be accessories of different types 41. In addition, since the "tolerance" tends to vary depending on the supplier of the component, components that can be supplied by accessory 41 with the same "size" but different "suppliers" can also be considered to be accessories of different types 41.

[0064] On the other hand, the storage unit of the arithmetic unit (comparison unit) stores the correct type of the feeder (e.g., the correct type of accessory 41 assembled on the feeder body 42). The arithmetic unit compares the correct type of the feeder stored in the storage unit with the type of the feeder output from the bulk material feeder 40 (control unit) to confirm whether the type of the bulk material feeder 40 held in the holding unit 12a is correct. Furthermore, the arithmetic unit can be provided by the integrated management unit 30 or by the control unit 11a of the installation machine. Moreover, it is not limited to the arithmetic unit having a storage unit; other devices capable of communicating with the arithmetic unit can also have a storage unit. Furthermore, for example, the storage unit can be implemented through a cloud storage area.

[0065] As a comparative example, the situation of the integrated management device 30 managing the identification information of the feeder main body 42 and the identification information of the accessory 41 will be described.

[0066] The computing device compares the combination of the identification information of the feeder body 42 and the identification information of the accessory 41 with the correct combination stored in the storage unit. In this case, the integrated management device 30 needs to manage the identification information of the feeder body 42 and the identification information of the accessory 41 separately.

[0067] In contrast, the integrated management device 30 of this embodiment only manages the types of bulk material feeders 40 (e.g., the types of assembled accessories 41). As a result, the amount of information (data) managed for confirming whether the type of bulk material feeder 40 is correct (e.g., the comparison work in the computing device) can be reduced.

[0068] Specifically, the control unit is implemented by a microcomputer or processor. The various functions of the control unit are implemented, for example, by the microcomputer or processor that constitutes the control unit executing computer programs stored in the storage unit.

[0069] Box 50 is a hollow box that stores components in a bulk (loose material) state. Box 50 is detachably attached to accessory 41, supplying the stored components to the bulk material feeder 40. For example, with box 50 attached to accessory 41, the stored components are supplied to the bulk material feeder 40 by vibration or other shaking. The storage space is the internal space of box 50.

[0070] Components can be electronic components such as resistors and capacitors, but are not limited to these; any object that can be mounted on a substrate or other object is acceptable. Furthermore, the shape of the component can be, for example, a cuboid (e.g., a rectangle in a plan view), but is not limited to these.

[0071] In addition, Figure 1In this example, the box 50 is assembled to the feeder body 42 at an angle, but the assembly angle is not limited to this. The box 50 can also be assembled to the feeder body 42 with its bottom surface horizontal.

[0072] Box 50 has an RFID tag 51 and a baffle 52.

[0073] RFID tag 51 stores tag information. RFID tag 51 is, for example, configured on the bottom side of box 50 (the side of feeder body 42).

[0074] The baffle 52 is configured to move from a closed position that prevents components from being discharged from the component outlet to an open position that allows components to be discharged from the component outlet.

[0075] Here, further reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 This describes a method by which the main body 42 of the feeder identifies the types of accessories 41. Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the identification method of accessory 41 involved in this embodiment. Figure 2 An example of a detection unit 41a, etc., and a detection unit 42a, etc., is shown. The detection unit 42a, etc., may be built into the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the feeder body 42).

[0076] Figure 2 (a) shows an example in which the detection unit 42a detects (acquires) information about the accessory 41 by contacting the detected part 41a and the detection unit 42a.

[0077] like Figure 2 As shown in (a), a plurality of detection portions 41a are provided on one side of the accessory 41, and one side of the accessory 41 is a mating surface (bottom surface) that is joined with the feeder body 42. A plurality of detection portions 42a are provided on one side of the feeder body 42, and one side of the feeder body 42 is a mating surface (upper surface) that is joined with the accessory 41. Figure 2 In example (a), there are six units of the detected part 41a and six units of the detection part 42a, but the number of the detected parts 41a and 42a is not limited to this. In addition, for example, when the accessory 41 is assembled in the feeder body part 42, the detected parts 41a and 42a are configured to face each other.

[0078] When each of the detected part 41a and the detection part 42a is made of a conductive material, the plurality of detected parts 41a can, for example, be configured such that, with the accessory 41 assembled to the feeder body 42, at least one detected part 41a corresponding to the type of accessory 41 is in contact (conductive) with the detection part 42a corresponding to that detected part 41a. For example, the detected part 41a for contacting the detection part 42a can be configured to protrude. Alternatively, the plurality of detected parts 41a, each in contact with a corresponding detection part 42a, can also be configured such that the detected parts 41a corresponding to the type of accessory 41 are conductive to each other. Figure 2 In case (a), the detected units 41a of "1" and "2" are turned on, and the detected units 41a of "3" and "4" are turned on. In this case, current flows between the detected units 42a of "1" and "2", and current flows between the detected units 42a of "3" and "4". The control unit can detect which detected unit 41a is in the on state via the detected units 42a. In addition, the detected units 41a of "5" and "6" are not turned on with any other detected units 41a.

[0079] When each of the detected part 41a and the detection part 42a is made of a conductive material, with the accessory 41 assembled in the feeder main body 42, the accessory 41 can be identified by which of the six detection parts 42a (probes) is connected to the detected part 41a. In other words, the type of accessory 41 can be determined by which of the six detection parts 42a is connected to the detected part 41a.

[0080] The control unit, for example, establishes a corresponding table based on the combination of the conduction detection unit 42a and the type of the accessory 41, as well as the actual combination of the conduction detection units 42a, to determine the type of the accessory 41 currently being assembled.

[0081] Furthermore, when the detection unit 42a constitutes a mechanical switch or pressure sensor, with the accessory 41 assembled in the feeder main body 42, the accessory 41 can be identified by which of the three detection units 42a is operated (pressed) by the detected unit 41a. In other words, the type of accessory 41 can be determined by which of the three detection units 42a is operated.

[0082] The control unit, for example, establishes a corresponding table based on the combination of the operated detection unit 42a and the type of the accessory 41, and the actual combination of the operated detection units 42a, to determine the type of the accessory 41 currently being assembled. Alternatively, it may be configured so that only the detected unit 41a corresponding to the operated detection unit 42a protrudes.

[0083] Figure 2 (b) shows the first example of the detection unit 41b and the detection unit 42b detecting (acquiring) information about the accessory 41 in a non-contact manner.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown in (b), a detection part 41b is provided on one side of the accessory 41. One side of the accessory 41 is a mating surface (bottom surface) that is combined with the feeder body part 42. The feeder body part 42 has a detection part 42b, which is capable of detecting light projected from the detection part 41b in the feeder body part 42.

[0085] exist Figure 2 In example (b), three units of the detected part 41b and three units of the detection part 42b are provided, but the number of the detected parts 41b and three units of the detection part 42b is not limited to this. In addition, for example, when the accessory 41 is assembled in the feeder body part 42, the detected parts 41b and the detection parts 42b are arranged to face each other.

[0086] The detection unit 41b is configured to emit light. The detection unit 41b may include, for example, a light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Light projected from the detection unit 41b can illuminate only the detection unit 42b corresponding to that detection unit 41b. Furthermore, multiple detection units 41b may emit light of different colors from each other.

[0087] The detected unit 41b is mounted to the feeder body 42 via an accessory 41 and receives power from the feeder body 42, thereby emitting light. For example, the detected unit 41b may emit light for a predetermined period (e.g., a few seconds) after receiving power from the feeder body 42, and then turn off after the predetermined period. Alternatively, the power supply to the detected unit 41b can be controlled by the control unit.

[0088] Furthermore, the plurality of detected parts 41a are configured such that, when the accessory 41 is assembled into the feeder body 42, at least one detected part 41a corresponding to the type of accessory 41 emits light. In other words, which of the plurality of detected parts 41b emits light for each type of accessory 41 is predetermined.

[0089] The detection unit 42b is a sensor (photoelectric sensor) capable of detecting light projected from the detection unit 41b. The detection unit 42b is constructed using light-receiving elements such as phototransistors. At least a portion of the detection unit 42b may be constructed using optical fibers.

[0090] Furthermore, the configuration of the detected part 41b and the detection part 42b is not limited to this. For example, the detection part 42b can be a reflective photoelectric sensor or a transmissive photoelectric sensor. For example, the detected part 41b can be a reflector or the like, and the detected part 41b can have a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element (reflective photoelectric sensor). The reflector can also be detached from the accessory 41.

[0091] With the accessory 41 assembled in the feeder body 42, the accessory 41 can be identified by determining which of the three detection units 42b receives light from the corresponding detected unit 41b. In other words, the type of accessory 41 can be determined by identifying which of the three detection units 42b receives light.

[0092] The control unit determines the type of accessory 41 currently being assembled, for example, based on the combination of the light-receiving detection unit 42b, the corresponding table established with the type of accessory 41, and the actual combination of the light-receiving detection units 42b.

[0093] Here, Figure 3 This is a table showing the relationship between the output of the detection unit 42b and the type of the accessory 41. Figure 3 The table shown is pre-set and stored in the feeder body 42.

[0094] Figure 3 The "output" shown indicates the output of each of the three detection units 42b. Specifically, "0" indicates that the detection unit 42b did not receive light, and "1" indicates that the detection unit 42b received light. Since there are three combinations of the detected unit 41b and the detection unit 42b, therefore... Figure 3 As shown, it can identify 8 types (types 1 to 8).

[0095] In addition, Figure 2 (b) illustrates an example of a combination of three sets of detected parts 41b and detected parts 42b for the bulk feeder 40, but it may also have only one set of detected parts 41b and detected parts 42b. The detected part 41b may emit light in a light emission mode (e.g., frequency, light emission color) corresponding to the type of accessory 41.

[0096] Refer again Figure 2 , Figure 2 (c) shows a second example of detecting (acquiring) information about accessory 41 in a manner in which the detected part 41c and the detection part 42c do not contact each other.

[0097] The part to be detected 41c is, for example, made of a conductor. The part to be detected 41c is, for example, configured to contain a conductive material.

[0098] For example, for each type of accessory 41, it is pre-defined which of the plurality of detected parts 41c will be used as a conductor. That is, for each accessory 41, it is pre-defined which detected part 41c will be used as a conductor.

[0099] The detection unit 42c is a touch sensor, and in this embodiment, it is a capacitive touch sensor. The detection unit 42c detects the change in capacitance caused by the attachment 41 being assembled on the feeder body 42.

[0100] Furthermore, the configuration of the detected part 41c and the detection part 42c is not limited to this. The detected part 41c may also be a magnetic body, and the detection part 42c may be a sensor (magnetic sensor) capable of detecting the magnetism from the detected part 41c.

[0101] Additionally, accessory 41 can be equipped with an RFID tag (not shown) as part of the inspected section 41c, etc., to replace... Figure 2 The parts to be detected are shown as 41a, 41b, and 41c. Then, the RFID reader 45 of the feeder body 42 can also use an antenna capable of sending and receiving signals to the RFID tag of the accessory 41 to read tag information from the RFID tag. This tag information contains information indicating the type of the accessory 41. Furthermore, even if the tag information contains unique identification information (ID) that identifies the accessory 41, the integrated management device 30 only needs to obtain the type of the accessory 41, and the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the control unit) only needs to output the information indicating the type of the accessory 41 to the integrated management device 30 from the identification information and the information indicating the type of the accessory 41. For example, the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the control unit) only needs to output the information indicating the type of the accessory 41 to the integrated management device 30. The RFID tag on the accessory 41 is an example of a part to be detected. In this case, the RFID reader 45 is an example of a detection unit.

[0102] Alternatively, the part being inspected, such as 41c, can also be a barcode, QR code, or the like. In this case, the management system 1 can be equipped with a reading device (e.g., a camera) for reading barcodes, QR codes, etc.

[0103] Here, refer to Figure 4 This explains the signal path from the bulk material feeder 40 to the integrated management device 30. Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the concept of a communication pipeline in the management system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0104] like Figure 4As shown, in the management system 1, the feeder body 42 (e.g., communication unit 43) is connected to the cart 12b via communication path R1, the cart 12b is connected to the production line 10 via communication path R2, the production line 10 is connected to the production line management device 20 via communication path R3, and the production line management device 20 is connected to the integrated management device 30 via communication path R4.

[0105] Communication paths R1 to R4 can be wireless communication paths, wired communication paths, or a combination of these.

[0106] The type information output from the communication unit 43 is input to the integrated management device 30 via the production line, which includes communication path R1, trolley 12b, communication path R2, production line 10, communication path R3, production line management device 20, and communication path R4.

[0107] Furthermore, regarding the production line from the trolley 12b to the integrated management device 30, for example, in a feeder such as a belt feeder that is different from the bulk material feeder, it could also be a production line for outputting information about the feeder to the integrated management device 30. Thus, when the trolley 12b also carries a feeder such as a belt feeder, the bulk material feeder 40 can output its type information to the integrated management device 30 by utilizing a pre-constructed production line.

[0108] In addition, assembly lines are not limited to Figure 4 For example, the type information can be directly output to the production line management device 20 or the integrated management device 30 by the communication unit 43.

[0109] Furthermore, the type information output from the communication unit 43 can also be output to the device set to... Figure 1 or Figure 4 The control unit 11a (see reference) in the installation machine (component installation device 11) that constitutes the production line 10 is shown. Figure 1The control unit 11a of the installation machine controls the operation of the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the bulk material feeder 40 held by the holding unit 12a) assembled on the installation machine. Specifically, the control unit 11a controls the baffle opening mechanism 44 provided in the bulk material feeder 40. The bulk material feeder 40 (control unit) outputs the type information of the bulk material feeder 40 to the control unit 11a of the installation machine via the aforementioned production line. Then, the integrated management device 30 outputs the correct feeder type to the control unit 11a of the installation machine. The control unit 11a of the installation machine determines whether the feeder type is appropriate by comparing this information. When the control unit 11a of the installation machine determines that the feeder type is appropriate, it controls the baffle opening mechanism 44. Specifically, the baffle opening mechanism 44 moves the baffle 52 of the box 50 to an open position that allows the component to be discharged from the component discharge port. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the mixing of different types of parts due to incorrect types of accessories 41 assembled on the bulk material feeder 40 (for example, supplying accessories 41 with parts of a different size and shape than those that accessories 41 can supply). As a result, it is possible to suppress the shutdown of the installation machine.

[0110] Furthermore, the control unit 11a of the installation machine can also acquire information related to the components stored in the box 50 assembled in the bulk material feeder 40. The control unit 11a of the installation machine can determine whether the components stored in the box 50 can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40, and if it is determined that they can be supplied, it controls the baffle opening mechanism 44. Specifically, the baffle opening mechanism 44 moves the baffle 52 of the box to an open position that allows the components to be discharged from the component discharge port. As a result, it is possible to prevent the mixing of different types of components due to incorrect assembly of the box 50 and the accessories 41 assembled by the bulk material feeder 40. As a result, it is possible to prevent the installation machine from stopping.

[0111] Specifically, the control unit 11a is implemented by a microcomputer or processor. The various functions of the control unit 11a are implemented, for example, by the microcomputer or processor constituting the control unit executing computer programs stored in the storage unit.

[0112] Alternatively, the aforementioned determination can be made by the integrated management device 30, and the control unit 11a of the installation machine can control only the baffle opening mechanism 44 according to the determination result of the integrated management device 30.

[0113] In addition, information related to the components stored in box 50 can be obtained by the integrated management device 30.

[0114] [2. The operation of the management system]

[0115] Next, refer to Figure 5 To illustrate the operation of the management system 1 constructed as described above. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the management system 1 according to this embodiment. Furthermore, the processes performed by the bulk material feeder 40 are processes performed by a processing unit (control unit, etc.) such as a CPU installed in the bulk material feeder 40.

[0116] like Figure 5 As shown, the bulk material feeder 40 (feeder) is first installed in the holding part 12a (S10). For example, when a lamp installed at the position of the holding part 12a for assembling the bulk material feeder 40 is lit, the bulk material feeder 40 is installed in the position of the holding part 12a corresponding to the lit lamp. Power is then supplied to the bulk material feeder 40 from the component mounting device 11. The installation of the bulk material feeder 40 is performed by an operator or an autonomous robot, etc.

[0117] Next, the bulk material feeder 40 requests communication with the integrated management device 30 (S20). The bulk material feeder 40 requests communication with the integrated management device 30 via the communication unit 43.

[0118] Next, the integrated management device 30 detects the assembly position (slot position) of the bulk material feeder 40 that requested communication (S30). There is no particular limitation on the method for detecting the assembly position, but the integrated management device 30 may, for example, detect the last assembled slot as the assembly position of the bulk material feeder 40 that requested communication.

[0119] Next, the bulk material feeder 40, which has requested communication with the integrated management device 30, determines whether the accessory 41 is installed on the bulk material feeder 40 (S40). There is no particular limitation on the determination method. The bulk material feeder 40 can determine whether the accessory 41 is installed by a sensor on the feeder body 42 or by taking an image of the bulk material feeder 40.

[0120] When it is determined that the bulk material feeder 40 is equipped with accessory 41 ("Yes" in S40), the bulk material feeder 40 identifies the type of accessory 41 based on the detection results of the detection unit 42a, etc. (S50). For example Figure 2 (b) or Figure 2 As shown in (c), when the detection result of the detection unit 42a, etc., is 3-bit information, for example, any one of type 1 to type 8 is determined as the type (category) of accessory 41.

[0121] Furthermore, if it is determined that the bulk material feeder 40 is not equipped with accessory 41 ("No" in S40), the bulk material feeder 40 reports an abnormality indicating that accessory 41 is not equipped (S100). The bulk material feeder 40 reports the abnormality through light, sound, etc., but it may also output information indicating that an abnormality has occurred to, for example, the integrated management device 30 or the user's mobile terminal.

[0122] Next, the bulk material feeder 40 determines the type of feeder corresponding to the type of accessory 41 (S60). The bulk material feeder 40 determines a type of feeder that includes the type of accessory 41. For example, when the type of feeder is indicated by first information, the bulk material feeder 40 may determine information indicating the type of feeder (type information) by adding second information corresponding to the type of accessory 41 to the first information, or it may determine third information that is different from the first and second information and is determined based on the first and second information as information indicating the type of feeder (type information).

[0123] Next, the bulk material feeder 40 notifies the integrated management unit 30 (S70) of the determined feeder type (type information). The bulk material feeder 40, for example, via... Figure 4 The production line shown outputs type information to the integrated management device 30. Accordingly, information identifying the accessory 41 and the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the feeder body 42) can be sent in a single transmission, thus reducing the number of transmissions compared to sending them separately.

[0124] Furthermore, notification regarding the type of feeder can be executed at a predetermined time, or according to instructions from the integrated management device 30, or at a time when a new bulk material feeder 40 is set. The predetermined time could be, for example, before production begins, or at a time when accessory 41 or box 50 is replaced.

[0125] Additionally, a safety cover (not shown) is provided on the mounting machine to cover the feed position of the feeder. The safety cover is provided so that it closes when the trolley 12b, which has the retaining part 12a, is removed from the mounting machine, thereby preventing the operator's hands from entering the head movement area. The safety cover closes when the trolley 12b with the retaining part 12a is assembled onto the mounting machine, and opens after the trolley 12b is assembled. Then, when the safety cover is open, the head can access the feed position of the feeder, and the head can pick up parts from the feeder held by the trolley 12b, and the picked-up parts are mounted onto the substrate. The mounting machine is equipped with a sensor that detects the opening and closing of the safety cover, and the opening and closing of the safety cover can be detected based on the sensor's output. Specifically, it can detect the safety cover from closed to open. Then, when the opening and closing of the safety cover (from closed to open) is detected, the bulk material feeder 40 can output the feeder type (type information) to the integrated management device 30. Accordingly, each time the opening or closing of the safety cover is detected, the type of feeder is output to the integrated management device 30, thereby preventing incorrect parts (parts of different sizes and shapes than those that can be supplied by accessory 41) from being supplied to accessory 41. As a result, production line stoppages can be prevented.

[0126] Furthermore, the notification of the type of feeder is made when the feeder body 42 is assembled to the holding part 12a and the feeder body 42 is equipped with the accessory 41.

[0127] Next, the integrated management device 30 compares the type information (type of feeder) obtained from the bulk material feeder 40 (S80) to determine whether the accessory 41 is an appropriate accessory. Then, if the comparison result is correct (accessory 41 is an appropriate accessory) ("Yes" in S80), the baffle opening mechanism 44 moves the baffle 52 from the closed position to the open position, thereby starting production (S90). If the comparison result is incorrect ("No" in S80), an error message indicating that the comparison result is incorrect is reported (S100). In step S100, the integrated management device 30, for example, displays on the display that the bulk material feeder 40 cannot supply parts. For example, the display can be any one of the display provided by the component mounting device 11, the indicator light provided by the bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the feeder body 42), or the display provided by the equipment carried by the operator. The display method can be text display, the illumination or flashing of the indicator light, etc. In step S90, the components are supplied from the box 50 as the baffle opening mechanism 44 moves the baffle 52 to the open position.

[0128] The comparison performed in step S80 could, for example, be the type information of each slot (the designated position in the holding section 12a where the feeder is mounted) determined according to the production plan. Figure 1 The determination is made as to whether the type of feeder shown (type information) matches the type information obtained by executing step S70. Based on this, it can be confirmed whether the correct type of feeder is held at the specified position in the holding section 12a.

[0129] Furthermore, the integrated management device 30 can also acquire information about the components stored in the box 50 assembled in the bulk material feeder 40. Then, in the comparison performed in step S80, it can be determined whether the components stored in the box 50 can be supplied by the feeder (accessory 41) based on the acquired type information (type of feeder). Accordingly, it can be confirmed whether the combination of the type of feeder and the components stored in the box 50 is correct. As a result, it is possible to prevent incorrect components (components of different sizes and shapes than those that can be supplied by accessory 41) from being supplied to accessory 41. Here, the incorrect results of the comparison are: the box 50 assembled in the bulk material feeder 40 is an inappropriate box, and the type of feeder is inappropriate. These situations can be notified to the operator in different ways (S100). Accordingly, the operator can identify which box and feeder (e.g., accessory 41) is incorrect, and can replace it with an appropriate box and feeder (e.g., accessory 41). For example, when the integrated management device 30 obtains the tag information of the RFID tag 51 of the box 50 assembled in the bulk material feeder 40, the comparison performed in step S80 can be performed by determining whether the component shown in the tag information is a component corresponding to the type of feeder.

[0130] Alternatively, steps S10 to S80 can be performed with the baffle 52 of box 50 closed.

[0131] In addition, when there are multiple pre-installed bulk material feeders 40, steps S40 to S80 are performed on each of the bulk material feeders 40.

[0132] Additionally, the bulk material feeder 40 can output type information to the control unit 11a of the installation machine in step S70. The comparison performed in step S80 can be performed by the control unit 11a of the installation machine.

[0133] [3. Effects, etc.]

[0134] As described above, the management system 1 according to the first aspect of this disclosure is a system for managing a bulk material feeder 40 (an example of a feeder), which supplies components in a state where an accessory 41 (an example of a supply member) for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. The management system includes: a bulk material feeder 40 held by a holding part 12a; and a management unit (e.g., an integrated management device 30) that manages type information indicating components that can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40. Furthermore, a detection part 41a is provided in the accessory 41, and the bulk material feeder 40 held by the holding part 12a outputs type information based on information obtained from the detection part 41a, etc., of the accessory 41 assembled to the bulk material feeder 40 to the management unit.

[0135] Accordingly, since type information corresponding to the type of accessory 41 is output from the bulk material feeder 40, the amount of information (data) managed for operations (e.g., comparison operations in the computing device) to confirm whether the type of bulk material feeder 40 (e.g., the type of assembled accessory 41) is correct can be reduced compared to managing accessories 41 individually by assigning unique identification information (ID) to each accessory 41. Therefore, the management system 1 can easily manage the bulk material feeder 40 that supplies components in the state where accessories 41 are assembled.

[0136] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the second aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of the first aspect, when the bulk material feeder 40 is equipped with a box 50 containing components, the management unit determines, based on type information, whether the components stored in the box 50 can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40.

[0137] Accordingly, it is possible to automatically determine whether the type of accessory 41 assembled on the bulk material feeder 40 corresponds to the type of component assembled on the box 50 of the bulk material feeder 40. Therefore, the management system 1 can easily determine whether the accessory 41 corresponds to the component of the box 50 when the accessory 41 is assembled. In other words, the management system 1 can easily manage the bulk material feeder 40.

[0138] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the third aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of the first or second aspect, the bulk material feeder 40 includes a feeder main body 42 capable of assembling an accessory 41, and the feeder main body 42 includes a detection unit 42a, etc., for detecting information from the detection unit 41a, etc.

[0139] Therefore, information related to the accessory 41 can be easily obtained via the detection unit 42a, etc. From the viewpoint of easy information acquisition, this facilitates the simple management of the bulk material feeder 40.

[0140] Furthermore, since the feeder body 42 has a detection unit 42a, it is possible to prevent the erroneous reading of type information from adjacent bulk material feeders 40. Moreover, when managing information obtained from bulk material feeders 40 with attached accessories 41, incorrect pairing (where, after detecting information about the accessory 41 and the bulk material feeder 40, the accessory 41 is incorrectly assigned to another bulk material feeder 40) can be prevented. From the viewpoint of managing information to suppress errors, this facilitates simple management of the bulk material feeders 40.

[0141] Furthermore, the management system 1 according to the fourth aspect of this disclosure, and the management system according to any one of the first to third aspects, includes type information that relates to the size of the components that can be supplied.

[0142] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent blockages in the conveying path of the accessory 41 caused by the size of the component supplied by the bulk material feeder 40 being different from the size of the component that the accessory 41 can supply.

[0143] Furthermore, the management system 1 according to the fifth aspect of this disclosure, based on the management system according to the third aspect, includes a detection part 41a, etc., on one side of the accessory 41. One side of the accessory 41 is a mating surface that engages with the feeder main body 42. The detection part 42a, etc., has a probe, which is configured to face the detection part 41a, etc., within the feeder main body 42. Information related to the accessory 41 is detected by contacting the detection part 41a, etc., with the probe. Examples of probes include connector electrodes, mechanical switches, etc.

[0144] Therefore, since the detection unit 42a and the like acquire information through electrical or mechanical contact, it is possible to prevent the erroneous reading of type information of other adjacent bulk material feeders 40. From the viewpoint of suppressing information errors in management, this facilitates the simple management of the bulk material feeders 40.

[0145] Furthermore, in the management system 1 according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, and according to the management system according to the third aspect, the detection unit 42a, etc., may have a sensor capable of detecting light emitted from the detected unit 41a, etc. Furthermore, in the management system 1 according to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, and according to the management system according to the third aspect, the detection unit 42a, etc., may have a sensor capable of detecting magnetism from the detected unit 41a, etc.

[0146] Therefore, information related to accessory 41 can be easily obtained using a universal sensor.

[0147] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the eighth aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of any one of the first to seventh aspects, the holding unit 12a may be provided in a preparation device for performing preparation work, which is related to the use of the bulk material feeder 40 before production.

[0148] Therefore, the bulk material feeder 40 can be managed during the preparation stage before assembly into the component mounting device 11. Thus, management of the bulk material feeder 40 can begin earlier.

[0149] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the ninth aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of any one of the first to seventh aspects, the holding part 12a is provided in the component mounting device 11 (an example of a mounting device), which is a device for mounting a component adsorbed from the bulk feeder 40 onto a substrate.

[0150] Therefore, the bulk material feeder 40 can be managed when it is assembled into the component mounting device 11. For example, even if the bulk material feeder 40 is replaced in the component mounting device 11, the bulk material feeder 40 can still be managed.

[0151] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the 10th aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of any of the 1st to 9th aspects, the management unit (e.g., integrated management device 30) establishes a correspondence between the identification information and type information that uniquely identifies the bulk material feeder 40 for management.

[0152] Accordingly, the management department does not need to manage the identification information of the main body 42 of the feeder and the identification information of the accessory 41 at the same time, thus reducing the amount of information (data) managed for the operation of confirming whether the type of bulk material feeder 40 is incorrect.

[0153] Furthermore, in the management system 1 of the 11th aspect of this disclosure, according to the management system of any one of the 1st to 10th aspects, the feeder is a bulk feeder 40 for assembling a box 50 containing components in a bulk state.

[0154] Accordingly, the management system 1 can easily manage the bulk material feeder 40.

[0155] Furthermore, the bulk material feeder 40 (an example of a feeder) according to the 12th aspect of this disclosure is a feeder that supplies components in a state where an accessory 41 for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. The bulk material feeder 40 includes: a communication unit 43 that outputs type information indicating the type of components that can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40 to a management unit (e.g., an integrated management device 30); a feeder body 42 capable of assembling the accessory 41; and the accessory 41, which is assembled to the feeder body 42. Furthermore, a detection unit 41a, etc., is provided in the accessory 41, and the communication unit 43 outputs type information based on information obtained via the detection unit 41a, etc., to the management unit. Furthermore, the management method involved in the 13th aspect of this disclosure is a method for managing a bulk material feeder 40. The bulk material feeder 40 supplies components in a state in which an accessory 41 for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. A detection unit 41a, etc., is provided in the bulk material feeder 40. In the management method, type information is output. The type information is type information based on information obtained through the detection unit 41a, etc., which is assembled in the accessory 41 of the bulk material feeder 40. It is also type information showing the components that can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40. The bulk material feeder 40 is held by a holding unit 12a (S70).

[0156] Therefore, it can achieve the same effect as the management system 1 mentioned above.

[0157] Furthermore, the component mounting apparatus 11 (an example of an mounting machine) according to the 14th aspect of this disclosure includes: a bulk material feeder 40 that supplies components in a state where an accessory 41 (an example of a supply member) for supplying components to a supply position is assembled; the bulk material feeder 40 includes a baffle opening mechanism 44 that allows components to be discharged from a component discharge port of a box 50 by moving a baffle 52 provided on a box 50 containing components; a holding unit 12a that holds the feeder 40; and a control unit 11a that controls the baffle opening mechanism 44 when it is determined, based on type information indicating that the component can be supplied by the bulk material feeder 40, that the accessory 41 assembled on the bulk material feeder 40 is an appropriate accessory. The type information includes information based on information obtained via a detection unit 41a, etc., of the accessory 41 assembled on the bulk material feeder 40, and the bulk material feeder 40 is held by the holding unit 12a.

[0158] Therefore, it can achieve the same effect as the management system 1 mentioned above.

[0159] (Other implementation methods)

[0160] The above description illustrates a management system or similar system based on one or more embodiments, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications conceivable to those skilled in the art, as well as combinations of constituent elements from different embodiments, are included in this disclosure as long as they do not depart from its spirit.

[0161] For example, although the above embodiment uses an object as a substrate as an example, it is not limited to this. Any object that can mount a component can be used, such as other components that can mount components.

[0162] Furthermore, the boxes described in the above embodiments are not limited to those with RFID tags; stickers bearing identifiers such as barcodes can also be affixed to the boxes. Then, after the operator reads the information indicated by the identifier using a barcode reader, they can assemble the box onto the main body of the feeder and output the read information to the integrated management device. Accordingly, the integrated management device can obtain information such as the dimensions of the components assembled on the bulk feeder.

[0163] Furthermore, the feeder body according to the above embodiment can store information obtained from the accessories in a storage unit (not shown). Accordingly, even if the bulk material feeder requests type information from the integrated management device at any time, it can quickly output the type information.

[0164] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the bulk material feeder can also send type information containing tag information obtained from the RFID tags of the boxes to the integrated management device. That is, the type information can be different from each other depending on the combination of the bulk material feeder (e.g., the feeder body), accessories, and components.

[0165] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, each component can be constructed by dedicated hardware or implemented by executing software programs suitable for each component. Each component can be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing software programs recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0166] Furthermore, the order in which the steps in the flowchart are executed is an example shown for the purpose of illustrating this disclosure, and may be in a different order than described above. Also, some of the steps described above may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, or some of the steps may not be executed at all.

[0167] Furthermore, the segmentation of functional blocks in a block diagram is one example; multiple functional blocks can also be implemented as a single functional block, or a single functional block can be divided into multiple functional blocks, or some functionality can be transferred to other functional blocks. Additionally, the functionality of multiple functional blocks with similar functions can be processed in parallel or time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0168] Furthermore, while the above embodiments illustrate an example of a management system having both a production line management device and a comprehensive management device, it can also be implemented as a single device having the functions of both a production line management device and a comprehensive management device.

[0169] Furthermore, the constituent elements described in the above embodiments can be implemented as software, typically as integrated circuits, i.e., LSIs. These can be fabricated as separate chips, or some or all of them can be included in a single chip. Here, although referred to as LSI, it is also called IC, system LSI, very large LSI, or extra-large LSI, depending on the level of integration. Moreover, the method of integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSIs; it can be implemented using dedicated circuits (general-purpose circuits that execute dedicated programs) or general-purpose processors. FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) that are programmable after LSI manufacturing, or reconfigurable processors capable of reconfiguring the connections or settings of the circuit units within the LSI, can also be used. Furthermore, as semiconductor technology advances or other derived technologies emerge, when integrated circuit technologies that can replace LSIs appear, these technologies can certainly be used for the integration of constituent elements.

[0170] A system LSI is a multifunctional LSI that integrates multiple processing units onto a single chip. Specifically, it is a computer system comprising a microprocessor, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The computer program is stored in the ROM. The microprocessor operates according to the computer program, thus enabling the system LSI to perform its functions.

[0171] Furthermore, one embodiment of this disclosure may be a computer program used to cause a computer to perform... Figure 5 The management method shown includes characteristic steps.

[0172] Furthermore, the program may be, for example, a program for causing a computer to execute. Additionally, one aspect of this disclosure may be a computer-readable, non-transitory recording medium on which such a program is recorded. For example, such a program may be recorded on a recording medium for distribution or circulation. For example, by installing the distributed program into a device having another processor and causing that processor to execute the program, the device can be enabled to perform the aforementioned processes.

[0173] Industrial availability

[0174] This disclosure includes a system for managing a feeder, which is a feeder used by a component mounting apparatus for mounting components onto a substrate.

[0175] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0176] 1. Management System

[0177] 10 production lines

[0178] 11. Component mounting device (mounting device, mounting machine)

[0179] 11a Control Department

[0180] 12 Supply Units

[0181] 12a Holding section

[0182] 12b stroller

[0183] 20 Production Line Management Device

[0184] 30. Integrated Management Unit (Management Department)

[0185] 40 Bulk Material Feeder (Feeder)

[0186] 41. Accessories (Supply Components)

[0187] 41a, 41b, 41c The parts being tested

[0188] 42 Feeder body

[0189] 42a, 42b, 42c Inspection Department

[0190] 43 Ministry of Communications

[0191] 44. Baffle opening mechanism

[0192] 45 RFID Readers

[0193] 50 boxes

[0194] 51 RFID tags

[0195] 52 baffles

[0196] Communication paths R1, R2, R3, R4.

Claims

1. A management system for managing a feeder that supplies components in a state in which a supply member for supplying components to a supply location is assembled. The management system has the following features: The feeder held by the holding part; and The management department manages information indicating the types of components that can be supplied by the feeder. The supply component includes a detection section. The feeder held by the holding part outputs type information based on the information obtained by the detection part of the supply member assembled on the feeder to the management part.

2. The management system as described in claim 1, When the feeder is equipped with a box containing the component, the management unit determines, based on the type information, whether the component stored in the box can be supplied by the feeder.

3. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The feeder includes a feeder body capable of assembling the feeding component. The main body of the feeder has a detection section that detects information from the detected section.

4. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The type information includes information related to the size of the components that can be supplied.

5. The management system as described in claim 3, The detection part is provided on one side of the supply member, and one side of the supply member is a mating surface that is combined with the main body of the feeder. The detection unit has a probe, which is positioned within the feeder body facing the unit being detected. Information related to the supply component is detected by contacting the probe with the part being tested.

6. The management system as described in claim 3, The detection unit has a sensor capable of detecting light emitted from the detected unit.

7. The management system as described in claim 3, The detection unit has a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism from the detected unit.

8. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The holding part is provided in a preparation device for performing preparation operations, which are operations related to the feeder used before production.

9. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The holding part is provided in the mounting device, which is a device that adsorbs the component from the feeder and mounts the adsorbed component onto the substrate.

10. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The management department will establish a unique correspondence between the identification information of the feeder and the type information for management.

11. The management system as described in claim 1 or 2, The feeder is a bulk material feeder used to assemble boxes containing the components in a loose state.

12. A feeder that supplies said component in a state in which a supply member for supplying a component to a supply position is assembled. The feeder includes: The communication unit outputs information showing the type of the component that can be supplied by the feeder to the management unit; The main body of the feeder is capable of assembling the feeding component; and The supply component is assembled into the main body of the feeder. The supply component includes a detection section. The communication unit outputs the type information based on the information obtained via the detected unit to the management unit.

13. A management method for managing a feeder, said feeder supplying components in a state in which a supply member for supplying components to a supply position is assembled. The supply component includes a detection section. The management method outputs type information based on information obtained via the detection part of the supply member assembled in the feeder, and type information indicating the components that can be supplied by the feeder, which is held by a holding part.

14. An installation machine, comprising: A feeder supplies the component in an assembled state with a supply member for supplying the component to a supply position. The feeder has a baffle opening mechanism that allows the component to be discharged from a component discharge port of the box by moving a baffle provided in the box containing the component. The holding part holds the feeder; and The control unit, based on information indicating the type of component that can be supplied by the feeder, determines that the supply member assembled with the feeder is a suitable supply member, and then controls the baffle opening mechanism. The type information includes information based on the detection part obtained via the supply member mounted on the feeder, which is held by the holding part.

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