Anti-vibration device and bulk feeder

Abstract

The anti-vibration device is applied to a bulk feeder which is installed on a component mounting machine and supplies components, the bulk feeder is provided with a vibration applying device which applies vibration to constituent components, and the anti-vibration device is arranged on the component mounting machine or the bulk feeder. The vibration generated by the operation of the vibration adding device is attenuated between the bulk feeder and other equipment installed in the component mounting machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to vibration damping devices and bulk feeders. Background Technology

[0002] A bulk feeder is equipped on a component mounting machine that mounts components onto a substrate, and is used to supply components in a bulk state in a supply area. As shown in Patent Document 1, the bulk feeder is equipped with a component box that holds multiple components in a bulk state, and conveys the components discharged from the component box to a predetermined supply area, thereby supplying the components to the component mounting machine in a pick-up manner.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2021 / 095219 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] Bulk feeders, for example, designed for the transport of internal components, sometimes include vibration amplification devices that induce vibration in the components. If the vibration generated in the bulk feeder propagates to other equipment installed on the component mounting machine, it may affect the operation or status of those other equipment. For example, if vibration propagates from the outside to other bulk feeders, it will affect the component feeding operation, and the position of the supplied components may change.

[0007] The purpose of this specification is to provide a vibration damping device and a bulk feeder that can prevent vibrations generated in a bulk feeder from affecting other equipment.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] This specification discloses a vibration damping device applied to a bulk feeder installed on a component mounting machine and supplying components. The bulk feeder has a vibration amplification device that imparts vibration to the constituent components. The vibration damping device is provided on the component mounting machine or the bulk feeder, so that the vibration generated by the operation of the vibration amplification device is attenuated between the bulk feeder and other equipment installed on the component mounting machine.

[0010] This specification discloses a bulk feeder comprising: a feeder body whose horizontal sliding movement is guided by a track of a component mounting machine; a track component disposed on the feeder body in a vibratory manner, forming a transport path for components discharged from a component box; a vibration amplification device that imparts vibration to the track component; and a vibration damping device disposed on the feeder body, supporting the feeder body by contact with the track and attenuating the vibration generated by the operation of the vibration amplification device.

[0011] This specification also discloses the technical concept of changing "the vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3" to "the vibration damping device according to any one of claims 2 to 6" in the original claim 7, and the technical concept of changing "the vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3" to "the vibration damping device according to any one of claims 2 to 7" in the original claim 8. Furthermore, this specification also discloses the technical concept of changing "the vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3" to "the vibration damping device according to any one of claims 2 to 8" in the original claim 9, and the technical concept of changing "the vibration damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 3" to "the vibration damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 9" in the original claim 10.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] With this structure, vibrations generated in the bulk feeder are attenuated between the bulk feeder and other equipment, preventing them from propagating to other devices. This prevents vibrations generated in the bulk feeder from affecting other equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 It is a schematic top view of a component mounting machine equipped with a bulk feeder.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the appearance of the bulk feeder.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view showing the main parts of the bulk feeder and the component box.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the vibration damping device installed on the main body of the feeder.

[0018] Figure 5 It is an enlarged side view showing the vibration damping device and the track.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional view showing the feeder mounting platform of the component mounting machine. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The bulk feeder 20 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The bulk feeder 20 is installed in, for example, a component mounting machine 10 for mounting components onto a substrate. The bulk feeder 20 supplies components in a bulk state that are not packaged by carrier belts or rods.

[0021] 1. Structure of component mounting machine 10

[0022] The component mounting machine 10, for example, together with various substrate mounting machines including other component mounting machines 10, constitutes a production line for producing substrate products. The substrate mounting machines constituting the above-mentioned production line may include printers, inspection devices, reflow ovens, etc.

[0023] 1-1. Substrate conveying device 11

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, the component mounting machine 10 includes a substrate transport device 11. The substrate transport device 11 transports the substrates 91 sequentially in the transport direction and positions the substrates 91 at predetermined positions within the machine.

[0025] 1-2. Component supply device 12

[0026] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component supply device 12. The component supply device 12 supplies components to be mounted on the substrate 91. The component supply device 12 has feeders 122 installed in multiple slots 121. Among the feeders 122, for example, a belt feeder is used to feed components in a pick-up manner by moving a carrier tape containing multiple components. Additionally, among the feeders 122, a bulk feeder 20 is used to supply components stored in a bulk state in a pick-up manner. Details regarding the bulk feeder 20 will be described later.

[0027] In this embodiment, each of the plurality of slots 121 has a track 126 provided on the feeder mounting platform 125 and a connector (not shown in the figure). Figure 6 As shown, a track 126 is formed on the upper surface of the feeder mounting table 125 to guide the horizontal sliding movement of the main body of the feeder 122 (e.g., the feeder body 21 of the bulk feeder 20). Multiple tracks 126 are arranged at equal intervals in the X direction, parallel to the conveying direction of the substrate 91. On the upper surface of the feeder mounting table 125, a protruding member is formed on the horizontal plane extending in the Y direction perpendicular to the X direction, and its cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the Y direction is rectangular and concave.

[0028] Additionally, a locking groove 127 is formed on the track 126, which is concave downward from the upper surface of the feeder mounting platform 125. The locking groove 127 is used to restrict the movement of the feeder 122 in the disassembly direction (Y direction) when the various feeders 122 are mounted on the component supply device 12.

[0029] 1-3. Component transfer device 13

[0030] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component transfer device 13. The component transfer device 13 transfers components supplied by the component supply device 12 to predetermined mounting positions on the substrate 91. The component transfer device 13 includes a head drive device 131, a moving stage 132, a mounting head 133, and a suction nozzle 134. The head drive device 131 moves the moving stage 132 along the horizontal direction (X and Y directions) via a linear motion mechanism. The mounting head 133 is detachably fixed to the moving stage 132 by a clamping member (not shown) and is designed to be movable horizontally within the machine.

[0031] The mounting head 133 supports multiple suction nozzles 134 so that they can rotate and move up and down. The suction nozzles 134 are holding members that pick up and hold components supplied by the feeder 122. The suction nozzles 134 adsorb components supplied by the feeder 122 using supplied negative pressure air. As holding members mounted on the mounting head 133, chucks or similar devices that hold components by gripping can be used.

[0032] 1-4. Component camera 14, substrate camera 15

[0033] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component camera 14 and a substrate camera 15. The component camera 14 and substrate camera 15 are digital imaging devices with imaging elements such as CMOS. The component camera 14 and substrate camera 15 capture images based on control signals and transmit the image data acquired through the capture. The component camera 14 is configured to capture images of components held by the suction nozzle 134 from below. The substrate camera 15 is mounted on the moving stage 132 in a manner that allows it to move horizontally along the same direction as the mounting head 133. The substrate camera 15 is configured to capture images of the substrate 91 from above.

[0034] In addition to photographing the surface of the substrate 91, the substrate camera 15 can photograph various devices as long as the movable range of the stage 132 is within its range of motion. For example, in this embodiment, the substrate camera 15 can photograph the supply area As (refer to) of the component supplied by the bulk feeder 20. Figure 3 The camera captures images of the substrate camera 15 and the reference mark (not shown) located on the upper part of the bulk feeder 20. In this way, the substrate camera 15 can be used to capture images of different subjects in order to obtain image data for various image processing.

[0035] 1-5. Control Device 16

[0036] like Figure 1As shown, the component mounting machine 10 includes a control device 16. The control device 16 mainly consists of a CPU, various memories, control circuits, and storage devices. The control device 16 stores various data, such as control programs for controlling the mounting process. The control program indicates the mounting position, mounting angle, and component type of the components mounted onto the substrate 91 during the mounting process in a predetermined mounting sequence.

[0037] The control device 16 performs recognition processing on the holding state of the components held by multiple holding members (nozzles 134). Specifically, the control device 16 performs image processing on image data acquired by the component camera 14 to identify the position and angle of each component relative to the reference position of the mounting head 133. In addition to the component camera 14, the control device 16 can also perform image processing on image data acquired by a head camera unit integrally provided on the mounting head 133 from the side, below, or above.

[0038] The control device 16 performs the mounting process by controlling the component mounting action performed by the mounting head 133 based on a control program. Here, the mounting process includes repeatedly performing a PP cycle (pick-and-place cycle) that includes pick-up and mounting actions. The "pick-up action" refers to the action of picking up the component supplied by the component supply device 12 through the nozzle 134. Furthermore, the "mounting action" refers to the action of mounting the picked-up component to a predetermined mounting position in the substrate 91 at a predetermined mounting angle.

[0039] When performing the aforementioned picking operation, the control device 16 controls the operation of the component supply device 12, which includes the bulk feeder 20. Control of the bulk feeder 20 includes, for example, control of the component supply operation performed by the bulk feeder 20. Based on image data acquired by a camera (in this embodiment, a substrate camera 15), the control device 16 identifies the supply status of multiple components in the supply area As of the bulk feeder 20.

[0040] The supply status identification process includes the following steps: identifying whether a pickable element exists in the supply area As, and if so, identifying the position and angle of that element. Furthermore, the control device 16 controls the movement of the mounting head 133 during the pick-up operation based on the result of the supply status identification process. During the mounting process, the control device 16 controls the movement of the mounting head 133 based on information output from various sensors, image processing results, control programs, etc. This controls the position and angle of the multiple suction nozzles 134 supported on the mounting head 133. As a result, the element held by the suction nozzles 134 is mounted at a predetermined mounting angle at a predetermined mounting position indicated by the control program.

[0041] 2. Structure of Bulk Feeder 20

[0042] Bulk feeder 20 is installed on component mounting machine 10 and functions as part of component supply device. Bulk feeder 20 supplies components that are not arranged in a bulk state (each in an irregular bulk state) as with a carrier belt. Therefore, unlike belt feeders, bulk feeder 20 does not use a carrier belt, thus having the advantage of eliminating the need for carrier belt filling and belt recycling after use.

[0043] In the bulk feeder 20, there are types that supply components to a planar supply area As in an irregular manner, for example. However, if the components are close enough to touch each other in the supply area As, or if they are piled up (overlapping in the vertical direction), or if the components are in a horizontal position such that their width direction is vertical, the component mounting machine 10 cannot pick them up. Therefore, in order to increase the proportion of components that can be picked up, the bulk feeder 20 has a type that supplies components in an arranged state in the supply area As. In this embodiment, a bulk feeder 20 of the type that arranges components will be exemplified and described.

[0044] 2-1. Feeder body 21, bracket 22

[0045] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the bulk feeder 20 includes a feeder body 21. The feeder body 21 is formed in a flat, box-like shape. At the front of the feeder body 21 ( Figure 3 The right end of the feeder body 21 is provided with a connector 211 and two pins 212. When the feeder body 21 is installed in the slot 121 of the component supply device 12, it is powered through the connector 211 and becomes capable of communicating with the control device 16 of the component mounting machine 10. The two pins 212 are inserted into guide holes provided in the slot 121 for positioning the feeder body 21 when it is installed in the slot 121.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the bulk feeder 20 includes a bracket 22. The bracket 22 is designed to vibrate relative to the feeder body 21. The bracket 22 is formed as a block extending along the front-rear direction of the feeder body 21, supporting a track member 421 mounted on its upper surface. The bracket 22 is given a predetermined vibration by the conveying vibration device 24, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the track member 421 supported on the bracket 22 is fixed by a locking member (not shown).

[0047] 2-2. Transport Unit 40

[0048] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the bulk feeder 20 includes a conveying unit 40. The conveying unit 40 is detachably mounted to the feeder body 21. The conveying unit 40 supports the mounted component box 50. The conveying unit 40 is a unit used to convey components discharged from the component box 50 from the receiving area (receiving section 411) to the supply area As.

[0049] After the planned installation process, the bulk feeder 20 undergoes a maintenance procedure to remove all components from the feeder for future use. The transport unit 40 is designed to perform this removal operation by being detachable as a unit from the feeder body 21 to improve workability; this unit functions as a flow path for the components. In this embodiment, the transport unit 40 includes a box holder 41, a track unit 42, and a connecting member 43.

[0050] The component box 50 is an external device that houses multiple components in a bulk state. The component box 50 is detachably (replaceably) mounted on the box holder 41 of the conveying unit 40 of the bulk feeder 20. The overall shape of the component box 50 is the same as that of the feeder body 21, forming a flat, box-like shape. The component box 50 is mounted on the box holder 41, allowing components to be discharged from the discharge port 51 formed at the bottom.

[0051] 2-2-1. Box Retainer 41

[0052] The cassette holder 41 is configured to vibrate relative to the feeder body 21. The cassette holder 41 is vibrated by the discharge vibrating device 25. The cassette holder 41 supports the mounted component cassette 50. The cassette holder 41 has a receiving portion 411 for receiving components 92 discharged from the component cassette 50. In this embodiment, the portion of the cassette holder 41 that receives the component 92 has an inclined surface that slopes forward relative to the horizontal surface. The cassette holder 41 forms a flow path for the component 92 extending upward from the lower end of the inclined surface.

[0053] 2-2-2. Track Unit 42

[0054] The track unit 42 includes a track component 421 that is detachably mounted to the feeder body 21. The track component 421 is mounted to the feeder body 21 via a bracket 22. The track component 421 is thus vibrated by the transport vibration device 24 via the bracket 22. The track component 421 forms a transport path R for transporting multiple components 92 and a supply area As that communicates with the transport path R and opens upwards to pick up multiple components 92. Here, the "supply area As" is the area where components 92 are supplied in a bulk state, and is the area where components 92 can be picked up by the component mounting machine 10. The "transport path R" is the channel through which components 92 flowing from the box holder 41 side through the track component 421 are transported to the supply area As.

[0055] The overall shape of the track component 421 is formed along the front-rear direction of the feeder body 21. Figure 3 (Extending in the left-right direction). In this embodiment, an arrangement member (not shown) is mounted on the track member 421 in a manner that allows for its installation. This arrangement member is, for example, one or more plate-shaped members. Thus, the track unit 42 is unitized by mounting one of a variety of arrangement members, corresponding to the shapes of the various elements 92, onto a common track member 421.

[0056] The arrangement components form multiple chambers arranged in a predetermined pattern (e.g., an interlaced pattern). Each of the multiple chambers is rectangular in shape, slightly larger than the outer shape of the element 92 supplied by the bulk feeder 20. Thus, the bulk feeder 20 has multiple chambers in the supply area As where the element 92 is supplied in a pick-up manner, which receive the element 92 in an up-down orientation along the thickness direction of the element 92.

[0057] The track unit 42 has a baffle 422 located at the front end of the track component 421. The baffle 422 is provided on the track component 421 in an openable and closable manner, blocking the opening of the supply area As when closed. When the track unit 42 is installed on the feeder body 21, the baffle 422 is connected to a baffle drive device (not shown). The opening and closing action of the baffle 422 is controlled by the baffle drive device. The bulk feeder 20 can prevent the component 92 from flying out and foreign matter from entering the supply area As by opening and closing the baffle 422.

[0058] 2-2-3. Connecting component 43

[0059] The connecting member 43 connects the cassette holder 41 and the track unit 42, allowing multiple elements 92 to flow through. The connecting member 43 is tubular, allowing multiple elements 92 to flow internally. The connecting member 43 is flexible, absorbing vibrations by deforming according to the vibrations of the cassette holder 41 and the track unit 42. Thus, the connecting member 43 reduces or interrupts the vibrations transmitted between the independently vibrating cassette holder 41 and the track unit 42.

[0060] 2-3. Air supply device 23

[0061] The bulk feeder 20 includes an air supply device 23 that supplies positive pressure air to the conveying unit 40. When the conveying unit 40 is installed on the feeder body 21, positive pressure air is supplied by the air supply device 23, allowing multiple components 92 to flow from the box holder 41 to the track unit 42 via the connecting member 43. In this embodiment, the air supply device 23 supplies externally supplied positive pressure air from below the box holder 41 based on instructions from the feeder control device 26, described later.

[0062] 2-4. Vibration-enhancing device for handling 24

[0063] The bulk feeder 20 includes a conveying vibration device 24 provided on the feeder body 21. The conveying vibration device 24 vibrates the track component 421 to convey the components 92 on the conveying path R, and conveys multiple components 92 between the conveying path R, which communicates with the supply area As, and the supply area As. The conveying vibration device 24 includes, for example, multiple piezoelectric elements. The multiple piezoelectric elements are attached to a support component that connects the feeder body 21 to the bracket 22. The multiple piezoelectric elements are oscillators that vibrate at a frequency corresponding to the power supplied from the power supply device.

[0064] When the vibration-enhancing device 24 applies vibration to the track component 421, the track component 421 undergoes elliptical motion in a side view. Consequently, multiple elements 92 located on the transport path R are subjected to either a forward and upward force or a rearward and upward force depending on the rotational direction of the elliptical motion of the track component 421. As a result, the multiple elements 92 are either transported towards the front of the track component 421 or transported towards the rear.

[0065] Furthermore, the power supply device of the conveying vibration device 24, based on the instructions of the feeder control device 26, adjusts the frequency and applied voltage of the power supplied to the piezoelectric element. This adjusts the frequency and amplitude of the vibration imparted to the track component 421, determining the rotational direction of the elliptical motion of the track component 421. If the frequency, amplitude, and rotational direction of the elliptical motion caused by the vibration of the track component 421 change, the conveying speed of the conveyed component 92, the degree of dispersion of the component 92, and the conveying direction will also change.

[0066] To improve conveying efficiency, the vibration-enhancing device 24 for handling pre-sets parameters related to the power supply (frequency, applied voltage) corresponding to individual vibration characteristics (including resonant frequency). For example, when the bulk feeder 20 is equipped with the track component 421 for a predetermined feeding action, it performs a correction process to obtain the correction value of the element 92 during the feeding process as the aforementioned parameters.

[0067] 2-5. Discharge using vibration device 25

[0068] The bulk feeder 20 includes a discharge vibration device 25 provided on the feeder body 21. The discharge vibration device 25 vibrates the component box 50 to discharge the component 92 from the discharge port 51 provided at the lower part of the component box 50. In this embodiment, the discharge vibration device 25 has a solenoid that is energized by power supply. The solenoid is energized only during power supply to generate a magnetic field.

[0069] The solenoid of the discharge vibration device 25 is arranged facing the vibrating part that vibrates integrally with the housing retainer 41, and the vibrating part is attracted by the magnetic force generated by itself. In this structure, by supplying pulsed power to the solenoid, the discharge vibration device 25 vibrates the housing retainer 41 and the component housing 50 installed in the housing retainer 41, and performs the discharge action of discharging the component 92 from the discharge port 51.

[0070] 2-6. Feeder control device 26

[0071] The bulk feeder 20 includes a feeder control device 26. The feeder control device 26 mainly consists of a CPU, various memories, and control circuits. When the bulk feeder 20 is installed in the slot 121 of the component mounting machine 10, the feeder control device 26 is powered via connector 211 and is able to communicate with the control device 16 of the component mounting machine 10.

[0072] The feeder control device 26 controls the operation of the air supply device 23, the conveying vibration device 24, and the discharge vibration device 25, etc. The feeder control device 26 performs the feeding process of the component 92 by controlling the operation of the conveying vibration device 24 based, for example, on preset conveying parameters. The aforementioned "conveying parameters" are parameters used to control the operation of the conveying vibration device 24 during the feeding process to impart appropriate vibration to the track unit 42, and are preset, for example, in association with each type of component 92.

[0073] The feeder control device 26 stores various data, such as programs and parameters, for controlling the discharge and supply processes of component 92. Additionally, the feeder control device 26 controls the operation of the baffle drive device to switch the baffle 422 to a predetermined state.

[0074] 2-7. Locking device 60

[0075] The bulk feeder 20 is equipped with a locking device 60. When the bulk feeder 20 is installed on the feeder mounting table 125 of the component mounting machine 10, it is locked by the locking device 60. More specifically, the locking device 60 is activated when the feeder body 21 of the bulk feeder 20 is guided by the track 126 of the slot 121 to the mounting position, thereby restricting the movement of the bulk feeder 20 in the disassembly direction.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, the locking device 60 has a locking member 61. The locking member 61 is supported so that it can be positioned relative to the feeder body 21 in the vertical direction ( Figure 3The feeder 20 moves in the vertical direction. The locking member 61 is formed to protrude downwards from the lower surface of the feeder body 21 in the locked state. The locking member 61 restricts the movement of the bulk feeder 20 by engaging with the locking groove 127 formed in the feeder mounting platform 125. In the unlocked state, the locking member 61 is embedded inside the feeder body 21, allowing movement of the bulk feeder 20.

[0077] In order to release the locking device, the locking member 61 is activated in conjunction with the operation of the operating part (not shown) operated by the operator. The aforementioned operating part is, for example, located at the rear end of the feeder body 21. Figure 3 The operating lever is located on the upper part of the left side of the feeder body 21. The locking device 60 connects the operating part and the locking member 61 via the wire 62. In the initial state where the operating part is not operated, the locking device 60 applies force to the locking member 61 by the spring 63, causing the locking member 61 to protrude from the lower surface of the feeder body 21. In addition, the locking device 60 engages the locking member 61 in a way that the locking member is released when the amount of operation of the operating part exceeds a predetermined value.

[0078] 2-8. Anti-vibration device 70

[0079] The vibration damping device 70 attenuates vibrations generated by the operation of the vibration amplification devices (transportation vibration amplification device 24, discharge vibration amplification device 25) between the bulk feeder 20 and other equipment installed on the component mounting machine 10. The vibration damping device 70 is provided on the feeder body 21. In this embodiment, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the vibration damping device 70 is provided in a manner that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the feeder body 21, and supports the feeder body 21 by contacting the track 126. The vibration damping device 70 contacts the track 126, which is the contacting component, and more specifically, the bottom surface of the rectangular concave groove in the track 126.

[0080] In this embodiment, when the bulk feeder 20 is guided by the track 126 and installed on the feeder mounting platform 125, the vibration damping device 70 is in contact with the track 126, while the feeder body 21 is in a non-contact state relative to the track 126. Furthermore, the connector 211 and the two pins 212 engage or insert into the object-side component of the feeder mounting platform 125 in the sliding direction (Y direction), providing almost no support for the mass of the feeder body 21 in the installed state. Details regarding the vibration damping device 70 will be described later.

[0081] 3. Component supply processing for bulk feeder 20

[0082] The component supply process performed by the bulk feeder 20, which is configured as described above, will be explained. First, the feeder control device 26 performs a component 92 discharge operation from the component box 50, for example, based on a supply command from an external source. In addition, this discharge operation can be performed not only after a supply command is input, but also in advance for the next supply operation after the previous supply operation has been performed.

[0083] The feeder control device 26 controls the operation of the discharge vibration device 25 to vibrate the cassette holder 41 on which the component cassette 50 is mounted. When the component cassette 50 vibrates at a predetermined frequency, the component 92 is discharged from the discharge port 51. The discharged component 92 falls onto the inclined section of the cassette holder 41 located below the discharge port 51 and slides forward along the inclined surface of the inclined section. As a result, the component 92 is retained in the receiving section 411 in front of the inclined section.

[0084] In this state, the feeder control device 26 instructs the air supply device 23 to supply positive pressure air. The positive pressure air supplied by the air supply device 23 blows up the multiple trapped components 92, allowing them to flow together in the flow path formed in the cassette holder 41. Thus, the positive pressure air and the multiple components 92 flow from the cassette holder 41 through the connecting member 43 to the track unit 42, and reach the transport path R of the track unit 42. Here, the positive pressure air is discharged to the outside from the exhaust port formed in the cover of the track unit 42.

[0085] Then, when the transport vibration device 24 applies vibration to the track component 421, multiple components 92 are transported toward the supply area As. Furthermore, depending on the supply quantity of components 92 in the supply area As, the track component 421 is subjected to vibrations that cause the components 92 to move forward or backward. A portion of the multiple components 92 transported to the supply area As are housed in a chamber. Components 92 not housed in a chamber are moved backward toward the transport path R by the vibration applied by the transport vibration device 24 and are removed from the supply area As. Through this component supply process, the components 92 housed in the multiple chambers are supplied in a manner that allows them to be picked up by the component mounting machine 10.

[0086] 4. Details of vibration damping device 70

[0087] 4-1. Overview of anti-vibration device 70

[0088] The bulk feeder 20, configured as described above, includes two vibration devices that impart vibration to its constituent components. Specifically, the bulk feeder 20 includes a transport vibration device 24 that imparts vibration to the track component 421, which is a constituent component, and a discharge vibration device 25 that imparts vibration to the box holder 41, which is a constituent component. Here, it is envisioned that the vibration generated when the bulk feeder 20 performs the supply or discharge operation of the actuating element 92 propagates to other equipment installed on the component mounting machine 10.

[0089] The aforementioned "other equipment" includes, for example, other feeders 122 (including belt feeders and bulk feeders 20) installed on the feeder mounting platform 125. Furthermore, when vibration propagates to other equipment, it may affect the operation and status of those other equipment. For example, when vibration propagates from the outside to other bulk feeders 20, it affects the feeding operation of the element 92 that is executed simultaneously; additionally, the position and angle of the feeding element 92 may change. Furthermore, when vibration generated outside the bulk feeder 20 propagates, it may have the same effect.

[0090] Therefore, in this embodiment, a structure equipped with a vibration damping device 70 is adopted to prevent vibrations generated in the bulk feeder 20 from affecting other equipment. The vibration damping device 70 attenuates vibrations generated by the operation of the vibration amplification devices (transport vibration amplification device 24, discharge vibration amplification device 25) constituting the bulk feeder 20 between the bulk feeder 20 and other equipment installed on the component mounting machine 10. In this embodiment, the vibration damping device 70 is provided in the bulk feeder 20.

[0091] 4-2. Detailed structure of vibration damping device 70

[0092] The vibration damping device 70 is installed on the feeder body 21. In this embodiment, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the vibration damping device 70 is provided in a manner that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the feeder body 21, and supports the feeder body 21 by contacting the track 126. The vibration damping device 70 contacts the track 126, which is the contacting component, and more specifically, the bottom surface of the rectangular concave groove in the track 126.

[0093] The main body 71 of the vibration damping device 70 is cylindrical and is fixed to the feeder body 21 via a mounting base 72. The mounting base 72 is detachably mounted to the lower surface of the feeder body 21 using a predetermined fixing method such as a threaded connection. A downwardly protruding contact portion 73 is provided at the lower end of the main body 71. In this embodiment, the contact portion 73 contacts the track 126 when the bulk feeder 20 is installed in the slot 121. The front end of the contact portion 73 has a spherical outer surface 731.

[0094] In this embodiment, to attenuate vibrations, the vibration damping device 70 may include a damping mechanism such as a damper inside the main body 71. The contact portion 73 is formed of an elastic material. Thus, the vibration damping device 70 attenuates propagating vibrations. Various materials can be used as the aforementioned elastic component. For example, the contact portion 73 can be formed of rubber or silicone rubber.

[0095] Furthermore, the international rubber hardness of the contact portion 73 is set to 70 IRHD or higher and 90 IRHD or lower. The optimal value of the international rubber hardness of the contact portion 73 can be varied depending on the mass of the bulk feeder 20, the center of gravity position, the placement position of the vibration damping device 70, the characteristics of the propagated vibration, etc. In the structure of this embodiment, appropriate damping characteristics are obtained when the hardness is set to 80 IRHD or higher, therefore the international rubber hardness of the contact portion 73 is set to 80 IRHD. The aforementioned international rubber hardness is measured according to JIS K 6253.

[0096] The contact portion 73, as described above, is formed of an elastic material and has a spherical outer surface 731. When the contact portion 73 is in contact with the bottom surface of the groove of the track 126 and the vibration damping device 70 supports the mass of the feeder body 21, the contact portion 73 elastically deforms in a compressed manner in the vertical direction. At this time, it is confirmed that the side with a smaller contact area with the target component (track 126) when the vibration damping device 70 supports the feeder body 21 has improved vibration damping performance under predetermined conditions.

[0097] Furthermore, the contact area mentioned above can vary depending on the remaining amount of the loaded component 92 and the mass of external devices including the component box 50. However, in this embodiment, the contact area (area of ​​the circular contact area) of the contact portion 73 is the width D1 of an adjacent pair of tracks 126 (refer to...). Figure 6 The area of ​​the imaginary circle Vc, which is the diameter, is less than half of the total area. In addition, in order to improve the damping performance, it is also envisioned that the spherical outer surface 731 be made with a small diameter in order to further reduce the contact area of ​​the contact portion 73, and thus the international rubber hardness is set to be higher in order to suppress elastic deformation.

[0098] Furthermore, it is known that the contact position Tp between the vibration damping device 70 and the track 126, which is the target component, affects the vibration damping performance demonstrated by experiments showing the extent of vibration actually transmitted to other equipment. It is speculated that the aforementioned vibration damping performance, in addition to the damping performance of the vibration damping device 70, is also related to the vibration occurrence state of the bulk feeder 20 and the structure of the vibration path to other equipment. In the structure illustrated in this embodiment, when the mounting side of the bulk feeder 20 is set to the front side in the sliding direction (Y direction) of the track 126, the further back in the sliding direction of the track 126, the better the vibration damping performance.

[0099] Therefore, as Figure 2 As shown, the contact point 73 of the vibration damping device 70 contacts the track 126, which is the target component, at a position Tp that is further back than the center Cn in the sliding direction of the track 126. Furthermore, as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the contact point 73 of the vibration damping device 70 can also be positioned at a location Tp that contacts the track 126, which is further back than the locking groove 127 of the track 126.

[0100] Thus, setting the position Tp at the rear in the sliding direction is considered to lengthen the transmission path of vibrations to other devices, particularly through the structural attenuation effect achieved via the locking groove 127. Furthermore, in the structure illustrated in this embodiment, the center of gravity of the bulk feeder 20 is located further rearward in the sliding direction than the rear end of the track 126. Based on the positional relationship between the vibration amplification device, the center of gravity of the bulk feeder 20, and the contact position Tp, it is also considered that the generation state of vibrations propagating from the feeder body 21 to the outside contributes to vibration damping performance.

[0101] 5. Effects of the structure based on the implementation method

[0102] In this embodiment, the vibration damping device 70 is provided on the feeder body 21. Specifically, the bulk feeder 20 includes: a feeder body 21 whose horizontal sliding movement is guided by the track 126 of the component mounting machine 10; a track member 421 provided on the feeder body 21 in a vibratory manner, forming a transport path R for components 92 discharged from the component box 50; and a transport vibration amplification device 24 that imparts vibration to the track member 421. Furthermore, the bulk feeder 20 includes the vibration damping device 70, which is provided on the feeder body 21, supports the feeder body 21 by contacting the track 126, and attenuates vibrations generated by the operation of the transport vibration amplification device 24.

[0103] With this structure, vibrations generated in the bulk feeder 20 are attenuated between the bulk feeder 20 and other equipment, preventing propagation to other equipment. This prevents vibrations generated in the bulk feeder 20 from affecting other equipment. Furthermore, the vibration damping device 70 functions as a support for the feeder body 21. This structure allows for the addition of the vibration damping device 70 to existing bulk feeders 20, reducing equipment costs in equipment used for producing product substrates.

[0104] 6. Variations of the implementation method

[0105] In one embodiment, a vibration damping device 70 is provided for the bulk feeder 20. Alternatively, multiple vibration damping devices 70 may be provided for the feeder body 21. Furthermore, the vibration damping device 70 is provided on the feeder body 21, which is one of the feeder body 21 and the track 126, and supports the feeder body 21 by contacting the other of the feeder body 21 and the track 126, which is the target component. Alternatively, the vibration damping device 70 may be provided on the track 126. Specifically, the vibration damping device 70 may be provided in a manner that protrudes upwards from the bottom surface of the track 126, contacting the lower surface of the feeder body 21 (target component) of the installed bulk feeder 20 to support the feeder body 21 from below.

[0106] Alternatively, the vibration damping device 70 can be configured, for example, to be built into the feeder mounting platform 125 to attenuate vibrations propagating between the two predetermined slots 121. Specifically, the feeder mounting platform 125 can also be configured to have multiple blocks forming multiple slots 121 and dampers connecting these blocks to attenuate propagating vibrations. In such a structure, it is also possible to prevent vibrations generated in the bulk feeder 20 from propagating to other equipment.

[0107] In this embodiment, the vibration-enhancing device is exemplified as a handling vibration-enhancing device 24 and a discharge vibration-enhancing device 25. Conversely, if the bulk feeder 20 has a component that generates vibration, that component can also be used as a vibration-enhancing device. This configuration achieves the same effect as the embodiment. Furthermore, if the bulk feeder 20 utilizes the vibration actuator 92 for handling, discharge, or other operations, the structure of providing the vibration damping device 70 to prevent the intrusion of external vibrations is particularly useful in reducing the impact on these various operations.

[0108] In this embodiment, the bulk feeder 20 supplies components that are mounted onto the substrate 91 by the component mounting machine 10. In contrast, components are used in a substrate mounting machine, such as the component mounting machine 10, which performs predetermined operations on the substrate 91. Various components can be used as long as they are items that can be supplied within the supply area As of the bulk feeder 20. For example, the bulk feeder 20 can also supply solder balls, which are spherical in shape, as an example of components. Even in this manner, the same effect as in the embodiment is achieved.

[0109] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0110] 10: Component mounting machine; 12: Component supply device; 121: Slot; 122: Feeder; 125: Feeder mounting platform; 126: Track; 127: Locking slot; 20: Bulk feeder; 21: Feeder body; 24: Vibration device for handling; 25: Vibration device for discharge; 40: Handling unit; 41: Box holder (component); 42: Track unit; 421: Track component (component); 43: Connecting component; 50: Component box; 60: Locking device; 70: Vibration damping device; 71: Main body; 72: Mounting base; 73: Contact part; 731: Spherical outer surface; D1: Width (of a pair of tracks); Vc: Imaginary circle; Tp: Contact position; Cn: Center (in the sliding direction).

Claims

1. A vibration damping device, applied to a bulk feeder installed on a component mounting machine and supplying components. The bulk feeder is equipped with a vibration amplification device that imparts vibration to the constituent components. The vibration damping device is installed on the component mounting machine or the bulk feeder to attenuate the vibration generated by the operation of the vibration damping device between the bulk feeder and other equipment installed on the component mounting machine.

2. The vibration damping device according to claim 1, wherein, The component mounting machine includes a track that guides the horizontal sliding movement of the feeder body of the bulk feeder. The vibration damping device is located on one of the feeder body and the track, and supports the feeder body by contacting the other of the feeder body and the track, namely the object component.

3. The vibration damping device according to claim 2, wherein, When the vibration damping device supports the feeder body, the contact area with the object component is less than half the area of ​​an imaginary circle with the width of the adjacent pair of tracks as its diameter.

4. The vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The front end of the contact portion that contacts the object component has a spherical outer surface.

5. The vibration damping device according to claim 4, wherein, The contact portion is formed of an elastic material.

6. The vibration damping device according to claim 4, wherein, The contact portion is made of rubber or silicone rubber, with an international rubber hardness of 80 IRHD or higher.

7. The vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, When the installation side of the bulk feeder is set to the front side in the sliding direction of the track, the contact position between the vibration damping device and the object component is set to be further back than the center in the sliding direction of the track.

8. The vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, A downward-facing concave locking groove is formed in the track. The bulk feeder has a locking device that restricts sliding movement by engaging a locking component in the locking groove when in the installed state. When the mounting side of the bulk feeder is set to the front side in the sliding direction of the track, the position where the vibration damping device contacts the object component is set to be further back than the locking groove of the track.

9. The vibration damping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The vibration damping device is located on the feeder body and supports the feeder body by contacting the track, which is the object component.

10. The vibration damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The bulk feeder includes a track component that forms a transport path for the components discharged from the component box, and the components on the transport path are transported by applying vibrations generated by the vibration device to the track component.

11. A bulk feeder, comprising: The main body of the feeder is guided by the track of the component mounting machine for horizontal sliding movement; A track component is provided on the feeder body in a vibratory manner, forming a transport path for components discharged from the component box; The vibration amplification device imparts vibration to the track components; and A vibration damping device is provided on the feeder body, which supports the feeder body by contacting the track and attenuates the vibration generated by the action of the vibration damping device.

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