Transfer device

Abstract

The invention provides a transfer device, which can prevent foreign matters from entering the inner space of a container of a transfer object. When the lid section (110) opens the opening section (102) in a state in which the container (10) is received by the receiving section (30), the internal space (101) communicates with the transfer opening (22), and the first lock mechanism (130) is positioned at the lock position, thereby bringing into a state in which the container (10) cannot be detached from the receiving section (30). When the lid section (110) closes the opening section (102) in a state in which the container (10) is received by the receiving section (30), the first lock mechanism (130) moves to the unlocked position, and the container (10) is in a state in which the container (10) can be detached from the receiving section (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a transfer device. Background Technology

[0002] As prior art, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-53137 (Patent Document 1) discloses the structure of a lid latching mechanism for a cleanroom. The lid latching mechanism described in Patent Document 1 locks the lid of a cleanroom having a body open on one side and a lid that closes the opening. A loading port loads semiconductor wafers from the cleanroom into a processing apparatus. The internal space comprising the cleanroom, the loading port, and the processing apparatus forms a clean space. The lock is released when the cleanroom is placed on the loading port; conversely, the lock is applied when the cleanroom is lifted.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-53137 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In Patent Document 1, when a semiconductor wafer is transferred within a cleanroom, and the main body of the container detaches from the loading port with the lid open, the internal space of the object being stored inside the cleanroom is exposed to the outside. This could potentially allow foreign matter other than the object to enter the internal space of the container from which the object is being transferred.

[0008] This disclosure was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to provide a transfer device capable of preventing foreign matter from entering the internal space of a container from which the object is being transferred.

[0009] means for solving problems

[0010] The transfer device based on this disclosure includes a container, a housing, a receiving part, and a first locking mechanism. The container includes a main body and a lid. The main body has an internal space capable of receiving an object and an opening connected to the internal space. The lid opens and closes the opening. The housing has a transfer port for transferring the object. The receiving part is fixed to the housing and receives the container. The first locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position locks the container received by the receiving part in a position where it cannot be removed from the receiving part, and the unlocked position allows the container to be removed from the receiving part. When the lid is open while the container is received by the receiving part, the internal space communicates with the transfer port, and the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, thus preventing the container from being removed from the receiving part. When the lid is closed while the container is received by the receiving part, the first locking mechanism moves to the unlocked position, thus allowing the container to be removed from the receiving part.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to this disclosure, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from entering the internal space of the container from which the object is being transferred. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transfer device and the feature screening device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the container included in the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the receiving section of the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first locking mechanism provided in the transfer device of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first locking mechanism can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the second locking mechanism and the switching mechanism provided in the transfer device of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure where the locked state of the second locking mechanism becomes the unlocked state.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the locking position of the first locking mechanism and the locking state of the second locking mechanism.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing the container being placed in the receiving section.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is closed.

[0024] Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is open.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device of Embodiment 2 of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a top view showing the structure of the container in Embodiment 2.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 2 being placed in the receiving section.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in Embodiment 2 where the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is closed.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 2 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the first locking mechanism in Embodiment 2 as it moves towards the unlocked position.

[0031] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An enlarged sectional view of the area surrounding the first locking mechanism.

[0032] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container in Embodiment 2 with its opening closed.

[0033] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locking mechanism of Embodiment 2 separated from the through hole in the cover.

[0034] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism in a modified example of Embodiment 2.

[0035] Figure 23This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device of Embodiment 3 of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a side view showing the structure of the container included in the transfer device of Embodiment 3.

[0037] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view showing the opening and closing structure of the cover in Embodiment 3.

[0038] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 3 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0039] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the first locking mechanism in Embodiment 3 as it moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0040] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device of Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container of Embodiment 4 is received by the receiving part.

[0042] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 4 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0043] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in Embodiment 4 where the container cannot be removed from the receiving part when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position.

[0044] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0045] 1. 1A, 1B, 1C: Transfer device; 2. Characteristic screening device; 3. Characteristic screening section; 4. Control section; 10. 10A, 10B, 10C: Container; 20. Shell; 21. Main surface; 22. Transfer port; 30. Receiving section; 31. Base section; 32. 32A, 32B: Wall section; 33. Conical section; 40. 340, 440: Cover component; 41. Side wall section; 42. Upper wall section; 43. Screen section; 45. 445: Interior; 46. First opening; 47. Second opening; 50. Another cover component; 60, drive unit; 61, cylinder body; 70, cover opening / closing part; 100, 200, 200A, 300, 400, main body; 101, 201, 301, 401, internal space; 102, 202, 302, 402, opening; 110, 210, 310, 410, cover; 111, flat part; 112, first protrusion; 113, second protrusion; 114, 214, track fitting part; 115, inclined surface; 120, 203, 306, side part; 1 21, 305, Bottom surface; 122, Track section; 123, Handle; 130, 230, 330, 430, First locking mechanism; 131, 331, 431, First support body; 132, First plunger; 140, 240, Second locking mechanism; 141, Hole; 142, Second plunger; 150, Switching mechanism; 151, Second support body; 152, Sloping surface; 203A, 306A, Front surface; 203B, 306B, Rear surface; 204, Protrusion; 205, Pin; 206 207. Elastic part; 208. Inclined part; 211. Third inclined part; 215. Upper surface; 216. Through hole; 217. Second inclined part; 231. Column member; 232, 318, 332. Elastic member; 233. Lower end; 305A, 432. Extension; 307. Upper surface part; 308. Recess; 311. Hole; 334. First protrusion; 335. Second protrusion; 420. Hinge; P. Ceramic capacitor; P1. Lower position; P2. Upper position. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following description of the transfer apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is based on the accompanying drawings. In the following description of the embodiments, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings are labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0047] Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the container moves and is received by the receiving part and the approximately vertical direction is designated as the X direction, the direction in which the container moves and is received by the receiving part is designated as the Y direction, and the height direction of the transfer device is designated as the Z direction. Additionally, for ease of understanding of the invention, some constituent elements are sometimes appropriately omitted from the representation.

[0048] (Implementation Method 1)

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transfer device and the feature screening device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, in Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, the transfer device 1 transfers an object between the transfer device 1 and the characteristic screening device 2. The object in this embodiment is a ceramic capacitor. The ceramic capacitor has a cuboid shape. The length of each side constituting the cuboid is, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 30 mm or less. Furthermore, the object is not limited to electronic components containing ceramic capacitors.

[0051] The transfer device 1 and the characteristic screening device 2 are arranged adjacent to each other. In this embodiment, the characteristic screening device 2 measures the characteristics of the ceramic capacitor to screen qualified and unqualified ceramic capacitors. In addition, the transfer device 1 is not limited to being arranged adjacent to the characteristic screening device 2, and may also be arranged adjacent to a ceramic capacitor appearance screening device or the like.

[0052] The characteristic screening device 2 of this embodiment includes a characteristic screening unit 3 and a control unit 4. The characteristic screening unit 3 measures, for example, the characteristics of ceramic capacitors such as electrostatic capacitance, insulation resistance, or inductance. After measuring the characteristics, the characteristic screening unit 3 screens the ceramic capacitors into qualified and unqualified products. The characteristic screening unit 3 is rotatable about the Y-axis. The characteristic screening unit 3 is provided with a discharge mechanism (not shown) that discharges qualified products toward the transfer device 1.

[0053] The control unit 4 is electrically connected to the characteristic screening unit 3 and the transfer device 1. The control unit 4 controls the operation of the characteristic screening unit 3 and the transfer device 1. Alternatively, the characteristic screening unit 3 and the transfer device 1 can also be controlled by separate control units.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure includes a container 10, a housing 20, a receiving part 30, a cover member 40, another cover member 50, and a drive part 60.

[0056] The container 10 houses ceramic capacitors selected by the characteristic screening device 2. The number of ceramic capacitors housed in the container 10 is, for example, 3,000,000 or less. Ideally, the number of ceramic capacitors housed in the container 10 should not exceed 80% of the capacity of the internal space 101, as described later. Details of the container 10 will be described later.

[0057] The housing 20 is connected to the outer wall surface of the characteristic screening device 2. The housing 20 has a main surface 21. The main surface 21 extends in the XZ plane. Alternatively, the housing 20 may be integrally formed with the outer wall surface of the characteristic screening device 2.

[0058] A transfer port 22 for transferring objects is provided on the main surface 21. In this embodiment, ceramic capacitors are stored inside the container 10 from the characteristic screening section 3 via the transfer port 22. The rate at which ceramic capacitors are stored is, for example, 50,000 or more per minute and 100,000 or less per minute.

[0059] The receiving part 30 is fixed to the housing 20. The receiving part 30 is arranged side by side with the transfer port 22 in the Y direction. The receiving part 30 is located below the transfer port 22 and the cover member 40 in the Z direction. Details of the receiving part 30 will be described later. In this embodiment, the Z direction is set to be approximately vertical.

[0060] The cover member 40 forms part of the transfer path of the object. The cover member 40 is located above the receiving part 30. The cover member 40 is connected to the transfer port 22 of the housing 20. The cover member 40 is configured to cover the opening 102 of the container 10, which will be described later.

[0061] The cover component 40 is roughly rectangular in shape. The cover component 40 is made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or hard resin.

[0062] The cover member 40 includes a side wall portion 41 and an upper wall portion 42. The side wall portion 41 is erected in the Z direction to surround the transfer port 22. The upper wall portion 42 is connected to the upper end of the side wall portion 41.

[0063] The side wall portion 41 and the upper wall portion 42 form a space within the interior 45 that allows a ceramic capacitor to pass through. The interior 45 is a generally rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space. The width dimension in the X direction, the length dimension in the Y direction, or the height dimension in the Z direction constituting the generally rectangular parallelepiped is, for example, 30 mm or more and 200 mm or less.

[0064] A screen section 43 is provided on the upper wall portion 42. The screen section 43 has a mesh structure. Air can flow through the screen section 43. When transferring the ceramic capacitor by injecting compressed air, the screen section 43 becomes the release path of the compressed air. Therefore, when the ceramic capacitor is housed in the container 10 of the transfer device 1, a simple transfer structure using compressed air can be performed.

[0065] The thickness of the side wall portion 41 and the upper wall portion 42 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 15 mm or less. The gap in the Z direction between the side wall portion 41 and the main body portion 100 is, for example, greater than 0 mm and less than 1 mm. The gap in the Z direction between the side wall portion 41 and the pair of wall portions 32 is, for example, greater than 0 mm and less than 0.2 mm.

[0066] Another cover member 50 is connected to the receiving part 30. The thickness of the other cover member 50 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 15 mm or less.

[0067] Another cover member 50 is adjacent to cover member 40. The other cover member 50 abuts against the side wall portion 41 from the Y direction.

[0068] Another cover member 50 is configured to cover the lid 110 of the container 10, which will be described later. This can prevent foreign objects other than the object from being placed on the lid 110.

[0069] The drive unit 60 is connected to a first locking mechanism 130 and a switching mechanism 150, which will be described later. The drive unit 60 is capable of being driven in the vertical direction (Z direction). The drive unit 60 has a cylinder 61. The cylinder 61 is connected to another cover member 50. The drive unit 60 is driven in the vertical direction (Z direction) by operating the cylinder 61.

[0070] In this embodiment, two cylinders 61 are provided. Multiple cylinders 61 may also be provided to ensure smooth operation of the drive unit 60. Furthermore, to enable efficient operation of the drive unit 60, a spring mechanism or linear bushing may be provided in the drive unit 60.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the container included in the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, container 10 is approximately rectangular parallelepiped in shape. The width dimension in the X direction, the length dimension in the Y direction, or the height dimension in the Z direction constituting the approximately rectangular parallelepiped are, for example, 10 mm or more and 300 mm or less.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, the container 10 has a main body 100 and a lid 110. The main body 100 has a bottomed rectangular cylindrical shape. The main body 100 is positioned below the lid 110 in the Z direction.

[0074] The main body 100 is made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy or hard resin.

[0075] The main body 100 has a side part 120, a bottom part 121, a track part 122 and a handle 123.

[0076] The side portion 120 comprises a front surface on which the handle 123 is mounted, a rear surface opposite to the front surface, and a right side surface and a left side surface connecting the front surface and the rear surface. The side portion 120 is erected in the Z direction from the four corners of the bottom portion 121.

[0077] The main body 100 has an internal space 101 for storing objects. The internal space 101 is surrounded by side portions 120 and bottom portions 121. The internal space 101 is a generally rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space. The internal space 101 has an opening at the top.

[0078] The main body 100 has an opening 102 that connects to the interior space 101. The opening 102 is connected to the top of the interior space 101. Alternatively, the opening 102 may also connect to the interior space 101 from the side.

[0079] The track section 122 is located above the right and left sides of the side section 120. The track section 122 extends along the Y direction.

[0080] The handle 123 is connected to the front surface of the side portion 120. By having a person or robot hold the handle 123, the container 10 can be moved on the receiving portion 30 or transported to a location other than the receiving portion 30.

[0081] The thickness of the side panel 120 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 4 mm or less. The difference between the outer shape of the main body 100 (excluding the handle 123) and the dimensions of the internal space 101 is, for example, 2 mm or more and 8 mm or less.

[0082] The lid portion 110 forms the upper surface of the container 10. The thickness of the lid portion 110 in the Z direction is, for example, 1 mm or more and 20 mm or less. The width and length dimensions of the lid portion 110 in the X direction are approximately the same as the width and length dimensions of the main body portion 100. The difference in width and length dimensions of the lid portion 110 relative to the main body portion 100 is, for example, -1 mm or more and 5 mm or less.

[0083] The cover 110 is made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy or hard resin.

[0084] The cover 110 has a flat portion 111, a first protrusion 112, a second protrusion 113 and a track fitting portion 114.

[0085] The planar portion 111 extends in the XY plane. The planar portion 111 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z direction. The planar portion 111 covers the opening 102.

[0086] The first protrusion 112 protrudes from the flat portion 111. The first protrusion 112 protrudes from the flat portion 111 in the direction (Y direction) in which the main body portion 100 slides relative to the cover portion 110.

[0087] The second protrusion 113 protrudes from the flat portion 111. The second protrusion 113 is located on one side of the flat portion 111 in the Y direction. The second protrusion 113 protrudes from the flat portion 111 toward the main body portion 100 in the Z direction.

[0088] The second protrusion 113 is cuboid in shape. The dimensions of each side constituting the cuboid are, for example, 1 mm or more and 20 mm or less.

[0089] The track fitting part 114 is located at a position corresponding to the track part 122 of the main body part 100. The main body part 100 slides relative to the cover part 110 as it moves while the track part 122 is engaged with the track fitting part 114. This allows the cover part 110 to open and close the opening part 102. The direction of movement of the main body part 100 is a direction orthogonal to the Z direction (Y direction).

[0090] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the receiving section of the transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0091] The receiving part 30 is composed of a generally rectangular parallelepiped-shaped component. The width dimension of the receiving part 30 in the X direction is, for example, 10 mm or more and 50 mm or less. The length dimension of the receiving part 30 in the Y direction is, for example, 50 mm or more and 300 mm or less. The height dimension of the receiving part 30 in the Z direction is, for example, 10 mm or more and 300 mm or less.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, the receiving part 30 receives the container 10. When the container 10 is inserted into the end of the receiving part 30 on the other side in the Y direction, the container 10 is fixed with a positioning accuracy of ±0.2 mm or more and ±5 mm or less.

[0093] The receiving part 30 is made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy or hard resin.

[0094] The receiving part 30 has a base part 31 and a pair of wall parts 32. The base part 31 extends in the XY plane. The base part 31 is rectangular in shape when viewed from the Z direction.

[0095] The container 10 is placed on the base portion 31. The container 10 is movable along the Y direction on the base portion 31. Therefore, the main body portion 100 can slide (towards) Figure 4 (Move in the direction of the arrow in the image).

[0096] A pair of wall portions 32 abut against the base portion 31 in the X direction. The pair of wall portions 32 are configured such that one wall portion 32A and the other wall portion 32B are opposite to each other in the X direction.

[0097] A pair of wall portions 32 each have a size opposite to the side portion 120 of the container 10. The pair of wall portions 32 guide the container 10 in the X direction.

[0098] The ends of the pair of wall portions 32 on the opposite side in the Y direction abut against the housing 20. A tapered portion 33 is provided at the end of the pair of wall portions 32 on one side in the Y direction. The inclination angle of the tapered portion 33 is, for example, 5° or more and 30° or less relative to the plane of each of the pair of wall portions 32. By providing the tapered portion 33, the gap between the pair of wall portions 32 increases with the end facing the Y direction. Therefore, when inserting the container 10 into the receiving portion 30, the container 10 is easily inserted.

[0099] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first locking mechanism provided in the transfer device of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure.

[0100] The transfer device 1 also includes a first locking mechanism 130. The first locking mechanism 130 is connected to the drive unit 60. The first locking mechanism 130 moves in the Z direction by being driven by the drive unit 60. The first locking mechanism 130 and the drive unit 60 are located on the handle 123 side of the container 10.

[0101] The first locking mechanism 130 has a first support 131 and a first plunger 132.

[0102] The first support body 131 supports the first plunger 132. When the first support body 131 is moved to the lower side by the drive unit 60, it extends to a position in the Z direction that is lower than the cover 110.

[0103] The first plunger 132 is located at the lower end of the first support 131. The first plunger 132 is a ball plunger. The diameter of the first plunger 132 is, for example, 3 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The pressing force of the first plunger 132 is, for example, 2 N or more and 20 N or less. The material of the first plunger 132 is, for example, aluminum alloy, iron alloy or hard resin.

[0104] The tip of the first plunger 132 can reciprocate in a manner that varies with the amount of protrusion of the spherical surface. The amount of protrusion of the tip of the first plunger 132 varies, for example, within a range greater than 0 mm and less than 10 mm.

[0105] The tip of the first plunger 132 is configured to reciprocate in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction. In this embodiment, the tip of the first plunger 132 on the side of the container 10 is configured to reciprocate in the direction (Y direction) in which the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110.

[0106] With the end of the cover 110 on the other side abutting against the side wall 41 of the cover member 40 in the Y direction, the first plunger 132 approaches the first protrusion 112 of the cover 110 in such a way that the top end of the first plunger 132 on the side of the container 10 can reciprocate.

[0107] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first locking mechanism can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0108] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first locking mechanism 130 defines a locking position and an unlocking position.

[0109] First, the locking position of the first locking mechanism 130 will be explained. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the first locking mechanism 130 is moved downward by the drive unit 60. The first plunger 132 abuts against the first protrusion 112. The tip of the first plunger 132 contracts in the Y direction along the inclined surface 115 of the first protrusion 112.

[0110] When the first plunger 132 moves downward past the first protrusion 112 and the main body 100 is not in contact with the first plunger 132, the tip of the first plunger 132 extends toward the container 10. Since the tip of the first plunger 132 is engaged with the first protrusion 112 in the Z direction, the first locking mechanism 130 cannot move upward in the Z direction.

[0111] The lid 110 in container 10 is held in the Y direction by the side wall portion 41 and the first locking mechanism 130, and is therefore fixed in the Y direction. Furthermore, since the lid 110 is connected to the main body portion 100 which slides along the Y direction, it is fixed in both the X and Z directions. Thus, the lid 110 is fixed in the X, Y, and Z directions, preventing container 10 from being removed from the receiving portion 30.

[0112] The first locking mechanism 130 locks the container 10 when the first plunger 132 is positioned below the cap 110 and the top of the first plunger 132 is engaged with the first protrusion 112 in the Z direction. Thus, the locking position of the first locking mechanism 130 is such that the container 10, which is received by the receiving part 30, cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0113] Next, the unlocking position of the first locking mechanism 130 will be explained. For example... Figure 6As shown, in order to close the opening 102, the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110 in the Y direction. The main body 100 slides until one end of the first protrusion 112 and the side portion 120 are on the same plane (on the XZ plane). The side portion 120 abuts against the tip of the first plunger 132, and the tip of the first plunger 132 contracts.

[0114] Since the tip of the first plunger 132 is not engaged with the first protrusion 112 in the Z direction, the first locking mechanism 130 can move upward in the Z direction. The first locking mechanism 130 is moved upward by the drive unit 60. Since the cover 110 is released from the fixation by the first locking mechanism 130, the container 10 can be detached from the receiving part 30.

[0115] The first locking mechanism 130 unlocks the container 10 when the first plunger 132 is positioned above the cap 110. Thus, the unlocked position of the first locking mechanism 130 allows the container 10 to be removed from the receiving portion 30.

[0116] As described above, the first locking mechanism 130 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Thus, the first locking mechanism 130 switches between a state in which the container 10 cannot be removed from the receiving part 30 and a state in which the container 10 can be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0117] In this embodiment, the main body 100 abuts against the first plunger 132, and the first locking mechanism 130 is movable in the Z direction. Because the first locking mechanism 130 uses a plunger, the moving axis of the first locking mechanism 130, used to move the first locking mechanism 130 to the unlocked position, is only one axis. This simplifies the structure of the drive unit 60 associated with the first locking mechanism 130.

[0118] Alternatively, the first locking mechanism can also be composed of a sensor and an actuator. In this case, the first locking mechanism can be structured such that the sensor detects the closure of the cover, and the actuator unlocks the container 10 locked to the receiving part 30, thereby allowing the container 10 to be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0119] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the second locking mechanism and the switching mechanism provided in the transfer device of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure where the locked state of the second locking mechanism becomes the unlocked state.

[0120] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the transfer device 1 also includes a second locking mechanism 140 and a switching mechanism 150.

[0121] The second locking mechanism 140 can fix the relative position of the main body 100 and the cover 110 so that the opening 102 will not open.

[0122] A second locking mechanism 140 is provided on the container 10. In this embodiment, the second locking mechanism 140 is provided on the side portion 120. A hole 141 is provided near one end of the side portion 120 in the Y direction. The hole 141 extends in the X direction.

[0123] A second plunger 142 is embedded inside the bore 141. The second plunger 142 is a ball plunger. The diameter of the second plunger 142 is, for example, 3 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The pressing force of the second plunger 142 is, for example, 2 N or more and 20 N or less. The material of the second plunger 142 is, for example, aluminum alloy, iron alloy or hard resin.

[0124] The tip of the second plunger 142 can reciprocate in a manner that varies with the amount of protrusion of the spherical surface. The amount of protrusion of the tip of the second plunger 142 varies, for example, within a range greater than 0 mm and less than 10 mm.

[0125] The tip of the second plunger 142 is configured to reciprocate in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction. In this embodiment, the second plunger 142 is configured such that the tip protruding from the container 10 is capable of reciprocating in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110 (X direction).

[0126] Since the second locking mechanism 140 is provided on the container 10, it is easy to maintain the state in which the opening 102 is closed by the cover 110 even when the container 10 is disposed in the receiving part 30.

[0127] Furthermore, although the second locking mechanism 140 is provided in the container 10, it is not limited to this structure. For example, the second locking mechanism 140 may also be provided in the receiving part 30, etc.

[0128] The switching mechanism 150 is capable of switching between the locked and unlocked states of the second locking mechanism 140. The switching mechanism 150 has a second support 151 and a beveled portion 152.

[0129] When the second support 151 is moved to the lower side by the drive unit 60, the inclined portion 152 extends in the Z direction in a manner that is located below the second plunger 142.

[0130] The second support 151 is generally rectangular. The material of the second support 151 is, for example, aluminum alloy, iron alloy or hard resin.

[0131] The inclined surface 152 is provided on the surface of the second support 151 opposite to the second locking mechanism 140. The inclined surface 152 is inclined such that it approaches the container 10 as it moves upward in the Z direction. The inclination angle of the inclined surface 152 is, for example, more than 5° and less than 30° relative to the plane of the second support 151.

[0132] The switching mechanism 150 can contact and disengage from the second locking mechanism 140 to enable the second locking mechanism 140 to operate and switch between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0133] The locked state refers to a state in which the second locking mechanism 140 operates while the container 10 is received by the receiving part 30, thereby fixing the relative position of the main body 100 and the lid 110. The unlocked state refers to a state in which the second locking mechanism 140 is released while the container 10 is received by the receiving part 30, thereby releasing the fixation of the relative position of the main body 100 and the lid 110.

[0134] In this embodiment, "the state in which the container 10 is received by the receiving part 30" refers to a state in which the container 10 can be installed and removed relative to the receiving part 30 by switching the locking position or unlocking position of the first locking mechanism 130, or a state in which the main body part 100 can open and close the opening part 102 by sliding relative to the cover part 110 when the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position.

[0135] When the second locking mechanism 140 of this embodiment is in the locked state, the second plunger 142 protrudes from the side portion 120. Since the second plunger 142 contacts the second protrusion 113 of the cover portion 110 in the Y direction, the main body portion 100 cannot slide relative to the cover portion 110 in the Y direction. This fixes the relative position of the main body portion 100 and the cover portion 110.

[0136] When the second locking mechanism 140 is in the unlocked state, the switching mechanism 150 is moved downward by the drive unit 60. The second plunger 142 abuts against the inclined surface 152. The second plunger 142 retracts along the inclined surface 152. The tip of the second plunger 142 retracts to a position approximately the same as the surface of the second protrusion 113 opposite to the side surface 120. In this state, the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110 in the Y direction. Since the tip of the second plunger 142 does not contact the second protrusion 113, the main body 100 can slide relative to the cover 110. Thus, the second locking mechanism 140 is in the unlocked state, releasing the fixation of the relative position between the main body 100 and the cover 110.

[0137] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the locking position of the first locking mechanism and the locking state of the second locking mechanism.

[0138] like Figure 9 As shown, a first locking mechanism 130 and a switching mechanism 150 are connected to the drive unit 60. Therefore, the first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 are integrally formed. The first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 can move integrally along the Z direction. Alternatively, the first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 may not be integrally formed.

[0139] The first locking mechanism 130 operates at a first height H1 that is above the second height H2 of the switching mechanism 150. When the switching mechanism 150 operates and the second locking mechanism 140 is unlocked, the first plunger 132 of the first locking mechanism 130 is below the cover portion 110. Based on the positional relationship between the first height H1 and the second height H2, when the second locking mechanism 140 is unlocked by the switching mechanism 150, thus releasing the fixation between the main body 100 and the cover portion 110, the container 10 cannot be removed from the receiving portion 30 because the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position.

[0140] When the switching mechanism 150 separates from the second locking mechanism 140 and the second locking mechanism 140 is locked, the first plunger 132 of the first locking mechanism 130 is positioned above the cover portion 110. Therefore, when the main body portion 100 and the cover portion 110 are fixed in the state where the second locking mechanism 140 is locked and the opening portion 102 is closed, the container 10 can be removed from the receiving portion 30 by moving the first locking mechanism 130 to the unlocked position.

[0141] By moving the first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 together along the Z direction, it is possible to switch between the unlocked position of the first locking mechanism 130 and the locked state of the second locking mechanism 140, and between the locked position of the first locking mechanism 130 and the unlocked state of the second locking mechanism 140. This simplifies the operation of the first locking mechanism 130 and the second locking mechanism 140.

[0142] The following describes the process of storing objects in the internal space 101 of container 10. Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing the container being placed in the receiving section. Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is closed. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is open.

[0143] First, such as Figure 10 As shown, the container 10 is placed on the receiving part 30. Figure 10The positional relationship of the container 10, the first locking mechanism 130, the second locking mechanism 140 and the switching mechanism 150 shown is set as the first position.

[0144] In the first position, the second locking mechanism 140 is in the locked state, meaning the opening 102 of the container 10 is closed. The first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 are located above the container 10. The first locking mechanism 130 is in the unlocked position. The switching mechanism 150 is not in operation.

[0145] Next, as Figure 11 As shown, the container 10 is moved along the Y direction. The lid 110 abuts against the side wall 41 of the cover member 40. Then, the drive unit 60 is driven, causing the first locking mechanism 130 and the switching mechanism 150 to move downwards. Figure 11 The positional relationship of the container 10, the first locking mechanism 130, the second locking mechanism 140 and the switching mechanism 150 shown is set to the second position.

[0146] In the second position, the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, and the first plunger 132 is retracted. Since the cover 110 is clamped in the Y direction by the first locking mechanism 130 and the side wall portion 41, the position of the cover 110 is fixed. Since the switching mechanism 150 is activated, the second locking mechanism 140 is unlocked, and the opening 102 of the container 10 can be opened.

[0147] Next, as Figure 12 As shown, the main body 100 is moved toward the housing 20 in the Y direction. The side portion 120 of the main body 100 abuts against the main surface portion 21. Figure 12 The positional relationship of the container 10, the first locking mechanism 130, the second locking mechanism 140 and the switching mechanism 150 shown is set to the third position.

[0148] In the third position, the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, and the first plunger 132 is extended. The second locking mechanism 140 is in the unlocked state. The opening 102 is opened by sliding the main body 100.

[0149] In the first position among the first to third positions described above, when the container 10 is received by the receiving part 30, and the cover part 110 closes the opening 102, the first locking mechanism 130 moves to the unlocked position, so that the container 10 can be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0150] On the other hand, in the third position, with the container 10 received by the receiving part 30, when the lid 110 opens the opening 102, the internal space 101 communicates with the transfer port 22. Moreover, by being locked in the locked position by the first locking mechanism 130, the container 10 cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0151] When moving from position 3 to position 1, the first locking mechanism 130 is positioned in the unlocked position. For the first locking mechanism 130 to be positioned in the unlocked position, it needs to be able to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. In position 2, the first plunger 132 is retracted by the main body 100, thus allowing the first locking mechanism 130 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. That is, when moving from position 3 to position 1, it is necessary to pass through position 2. In position 2, the cover 110 closes the opening 102; therefore, if the opening 102 is not closed via position 2, it is impossible to move to position 1 and remove the container 10 from the receiving part 30.

[0152] like Figure 12 As shown, in this embodiment, when the cover 110 opens the opening 102, the internal space 101 communicates with the transfer port 22 through the interior 45 of the cover member 40. The first opening 46 is located to the side of the interior 45, and the second opening 47 is located below the interior 45. The first opening 46 communicates with the transfer port 22. The second opening 47 communicates with the opening 102.

[0153] The qualified ceramic capacitor P is discharged from the transfer port 22. The ceramic capacitor P is housed in the internal space 101 through the interior 45 of the cover member 40. The internal space 101 communicates with the transfer port 22 to prevent items other than the transferred ceramic capacitor P (e.g., defective items or other types of ceramic capacitors) from being transferred into the internal space 101. That is, the internal space 101 communicates with the transfer port 22 to prevent foreign objects other than the object from entering the internal space 101 of the container 10 for transferring the object.

[0154] like Figures 10-12 As shown, after the required amount of ceramic capacitor P is placed in the container 10, the main body 100 is slid away from the housing 20. The first plunger 132 retracts, enabling the first locking mechanism 130 to move to the unlocked position. The opening 102 is closed by the cover 110. By moving the drive unit 60 upward, the first locking mechanism 130 is moved to the unlocked position, and the second locking mechanism 140 is locked. The container 10 can then be removed from the receiving part 30. This completes the transfer of the ceramic capacitor P from the characteristic screening device 2 to the transfer device 1.

[0155] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, when the container 10 is received by the receiving part 30, and the cover 110 opens the opening 102, the internal space 101 communicates with the transfer port 22, and the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, thus preventing the container 10 from being removed from the receiving part 30. When the cover 110 closes the opening 102, the first locking mechanism 130 moves to the unlocked position, thus allowing the container 10 to be removed from the receiving part 30. Therefore, when the cover 110 of the container 10 is open, the container 10 will not be removed from the receiving part 30, and the internal space 101 of the container 10 communicates with the transfer port 22, allowing the ceramic capacitor P to be housed within the internal space. This prevents foreign matter from entering the internal space 101 of the container 10 used to transfer the ceramic capacitor P (the object).

[0156] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, by having a second locking mechanism 140 that can fix the relative position of the main body 100 and the cover 110 so that the opening 102 will not be opened, the opening and closing of the opening 102 by the cover 110 can be operated in such a way that foreign objects are not mixed into the internal space 101.

[0157] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, by configuring the switching mechanism 150 to be able to contact and separate relative to the second locking mechanism 140, it is possible to operate the fixing or unlocking of the relative position of the main body 100 and the cover 110 by the second locking mechanism 140. Since the second locking mechanism 140 uses the inclined portion 152 of the switching mechanism 150 to reciprocate the second plunger 142, it can be operated with a simple structure.

[0158] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, the switching mechanism 150 and the first locking mechanism 130 are integrally formed. When the second locking mechanism 140 is unlocked by the switching mechanism 150, thus releasing the fixation between the main body 100 and the cover 110, the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, thereby preventing the container 10 from being removed from the receiving portion 30. Furthermore, when the main body 100 and the cover 110 are fixed with the opening 102 closed by the second locking mechanism 140, the container 10 can be removed from the receiving portion 30 by moving the first locking mechanism 130 to the unlocked position. Thus, the container 10 can only be removed from the receiving portion 30 with the cover 110 closing the opening 102, thereby preventing foreign matter from entering the internal space 101 of the container 10.

[0159] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, the main body 100 is positioned below the cover 110 in the Z direction. The opening 102 is opened by sliding the main body 100. Thus, if a foreign object is placed on the cover 110, and the cover 110 is moved, the foreign object on the cover 110 may enter the internal space 101 of the main body 100. However, by sliding the main body 100, the situation where the foreign object mixes into the internal space 101 can be suppressed.

[0160] In the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, by providing a cover member 40 that covers the opening 102, the ceramic capacitor P can be transferred without fully opening the opening 102, thus enabling efficient opening and closing of the opening 102.

[0161] Furthermore, in the transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 described above, the container 10 contains the object, but the structure is not limited to this. The object being transferred can also be discharged from the container to the transfer port. When discharging the object from the container to the transfer port, the internal space is connected to the transfer port with the lid open only when it is necessary to prevent foreign objects from entering the internal space, thereby suppressing the possibility of foreign objects mixing into the internal space and the transfer port.

[0162] In addition, in order to suppress the deviation of the accumulation of ceramic capacitor P in container 10, the transfer device 1 may also be equipped with a vibrator that vibrates container 10 or a mechanism that changes the discharge direction of ceramic capacitor P from transfer port 22.

[0163] The transfer device 1 of Embodiment 1 described above can also be described as follows.

[0164] like Figure 11 As shown, when the container 10 is placed on the receiving part 30, the top end of the cover member 40 is located side by side with the cover part 110 in the first direction (Y direction). The top end of the cover member 40 is the lower end of the side wall part 41.

[0165] The first locking mechanism 130 is supported on the housing 20 by means of the drive unit 60. The first locking mechanism 130 includes a first part. When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the first part is arranged side by side with the cover 110 in a first direction (Y direction) orthogonal to the Z direction. The first part is part of the circumferential surface of the first support body 131.

[0166] When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the first support 131 is parallel to the cover 110 on the side opposite to the top part (lower end of the side wall part 41) of the cover member 40 when viewed from the cover 110 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0167] The cover 110 includes a second portion. When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the second portion engages with a portion of the circumferential surface (the first portion) of the first support 131 in the first direction (Y direction). The second portion is the part of the end face of the cover 110 that is opposite to a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support 131 in the first direction (Y direction) when the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position.

[0168] When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the first part and the second part engage with each other in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the cover 110 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction), so that the container 10 cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0169] Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the cover 110 is clamped between the top end of the cover member 40 (the lower end of the side wall portion 41) and the first support 131 in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the cover 110 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0170] Furthermore, by connecting the main body 100 and the cover 110 in a manner that allows them to slide in the first direction (Y direction), the movement of the main body 100 relative to the cover 110 in the Z direction and in the second direction (X direction) orthogonal to the Z direction and the first direction is restricted. This restricts the movement of the container 10 relative to the shell 20 in the X, Y, and Z directions, thus preventing the container 10 from being detached from the receiving part 30.

[0171] like Figure 12 As shown, when the container 10 cannot be removed from the receiving part 30, the opening 102 is opened and closed by sliding the main body 100. Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, with the cover 110 abutting against the top end of the cover member 40, the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110 in the first direction (Y direction), thereby opening and closing the opening 102.

[0172] The first plunger 132 is provided on the first support 131 and is telescopic in the first direction (Y direction). When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position and the cover 110 opens the opening 102, the movement of the first locking mechanism 130 from the locked position to the unlocked position is restricted by the extension of the first plunger 132 to engage with the cover 110.

[0173] With the opening 102 open, the opening 102 communicates with the interior 45 of the cover member 40, allowing the ceramic capacitor P (object) to be transferred from the transfer port 22 into the interior space 101. Since the opening 102 communicates only with the interior 45 of the cover member 40 when it is open, it is possible to prevent foreign objects other than the ceramic capacitor P (object) from entering the interior space 101.

[0174] When the transfer of the ceramic capacitor P (object) is completed, the container 10 is removed from the receiving part 30. The first part described above separates from the second part described above in the Z direction, and the first locking mechanism 130 moves to the unlocked position, thereby making the container 10 detachable from the receiving part 30.

[0175] Specifically, such as Figure 11 As shown, when the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position and the cover 110 closes the opening 102, the main body 100 abuts against the first plunger 132, causing the first plunger 132 to retract, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism 130 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Figure 10 As shown, by moving the first locking mechanism 130 to the unlocked position, the first locking mechanism 130 separates from the container 10, so that the container 10 can move in the first direction (Y direction) and be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0176] In the transfer device 1 of this embodiment, the first locking mechanism 130 is constructed with a simple structure using the first plunger 132. When the first locking mechanism 130 is in the locked position, the main body 100 slides relative to the cover 110 in the first direction (Y direction) while the cover 110 is in contact with the top end of the cover member 40, thereby opening and closing the opening 102. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where foreign matter is mixed into the internal space 101 of the container 10 for transferring the ceramic capacitor P (object).

[0177] The following description of the transfer apparatus according to Embodiments 2 to 4 of this disclosure is based on the accompanying drawings. In the description of the transfer apparatus according to Embodiments 2 to 4 of this disclosure, structures identical to those in the transfer apparatus of Embodiment 1 of this disclosure will not be described again.

[0178] (Implementation Method 2)

[0179] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device of Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. Figure 14 This is a top view showing the structure of the container in Embodiment 2.

[0180] like Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, the transfer device 1A of Embodiment 2 of this disclosure includes a container 10A, a housing 20, a receiving portion 30, a cover member 40, and a first locking mechanism 230. The container 10A has a main body portion 200 and a cover portion 210.

[0181] The main body 200 has a side portion 203. The side portion 203 has a front surface 203A and a rear surface 203B. The front surface 203A and the rear surface 203B are opposite each other in the first direction (Y direction) with an internal space 201 between them. The front surface 203A is located further away from the housing 20 than the rear surface 203B.

[0182] The cover portion 210 has an upper surface 211 and a track fitting portion 214. A first inclined portion 215 is provided on the upper surface 211. The first inclined portion 215 is located at the end of the upper surface 211 on the side near the housing 20. The first inclined portion 215 extends along a second direction (X direction). Alternatively, the first inclined portion 215 may be provided only in a position parallel to the first locking mechanism 230 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0183] The first inclined face 215 is inclined relative to the first direction (Y direction). The first inclined face 215 is inclined downward in the Z direction as it approaches the housing 20.

[0184] A through hole 216 is provided in the cover portion 210. The through hole 216 is provided on the upper surface 211. The through hole 216 penetrates the cover portion 210 in the Z direction. The through hole 216 is located on the side away from the housing 20. The through hole 216 is parallel to the front surface 203A in the Z direction.

[0185] The container 10A is provided with a second inclined surface 217. The second inclined surface 217 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 216. The second inclined surface 217 is inclined relative to the first direction (Y direction). The second inclined surface 217 is configured such that the inner diameter of the through hole 216 decreases from the upper surface 211 downwards. The second inclined surface 217 is provided on the housing 20 side of the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 216. That is, when viewed from the second direction (X direction), the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 216 on the housing 20 side is inclined relative to the Z direction, and the inner peripheral surface on the opposite side of the housing 20 is along the Z direction.

[0186] The track portion (not shown) of the main body portion 200 is fitted into the track fitting portion 214. As a result, the main body portion 200 and the cover portion 210 can slide in the first direction (Y direction).

[0187] The first locking mechanism 230 has a column member 231 and an elastic member 232. The column member 231 extends along the Z direction. The cross-sectional shape of the column member 231 is arbitrary; for example, when it is circular, the diameter is, for example, 3 mm or more and 20 mm or less. Furthermore, it is preferable that the lower end 233 of the column member 231 in the Z direction is shaped to continuously change towards a shape narrower than the cross-section of the column member 231. When the cross-sectional shape of the column member 231 is, for example, circular, the lower end 233 is preferably, for example, hemispherical or conical.

[0188] The upper end of the column member 231 is connected to the drive unit 60 via an elastic member 232. Thus, the column member 231 can be moved in the Z direction by means of the elastic member 232 and the drive unit 60 respectively.

[0189] The drive unit 60 is connected to the housing 20. The relative position of the column member 231 with respect to the housing 20 is fixed in the first direction (Y direction) and the second direction (X direction). The column member 231 has a size that allows it to pass through the through hole 216.

[0190] The first locking mechanism 230 can be adjusted to various positions in the Z direction. Specifically, the drive unit 60 can move to a lower position P1 or an upper position P2 in the Z direction. When the container 10A is placed in the receiving unit 30, the lower position P1 and the upper position P2 of the drive unit 60 can be adjusted by operating the drive unit 60 from the control unit 4.

[0191] When the drive unit 60 is in the lower position P1, and the elastic member 232 is not under force, the lower end 233 of the column member 231 in the Z direction is arranged side by side with the main body 200 in the first direction (Y direction). When the drive unit 60 is in the upper position P2, and the elastic member 232 is not under force, the lower end 233 of the column member 231 in the Z direction is arranged side by side with the first inclined surface 215 of the cover 210 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0192] With the drive unit 60 in either the lower position P1 or the upper position P2, the column member 231 can be moved up and down using the elastic member 232. The column member 231 can move up and down by the container 10A abutting against its lower end 233 in the Z direction. Therefore, the lower end 233 of the column member 231 in the Z direction can be positioned in the first direction (Y direction) alongside the main body 200 or the cover 210, or on the upper surface 211 of the cover 210.

[0193] The main body 200 has a protrusion 204 and a second locking mechanism 240. The protrusion 204 is provided on the front surface 203A. The protrusion 204 protrudes from the upper end of the front surface 203A toward the cover 210.

[0194] The second locking mechanism 240 and the protrusion 204 are arranged side by side in the first direction (Y direction). In the unloaded state, the second locking mechanism 240 engages with the through hole 216 of the cover 210. In the unloaded state, the second locking mechanism 240 restricts the movement of the main body 200 relative to the cover 210.

[0195] The second locking mechanism 240 has a pin 205 and an elastic part 206. The pin 205 is a cylindrical member with a notch shape. The pin 205 can move in the Z direction by engaging with the protrusion 204.

[0196] The elastic part 206 is a component that supports the pin part 205. The upper end of the elastic part 206 is connected to the pin part 205. The lower end of the elastic part 206 is connected to the upper end of the front surface 203A. By elastically deforming the elastic part 206, the pin part 205 can be moved in the Z direction. The elastic part 206 is, for example, a spring. However, the elastic part 206 is not limited to a spring and may also be made of rubber or the like.

[0197] The operation of the transfer device 1A will be explained below. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 2 being placed in the receiving section.

[0198] like Figure 15 As shown, container 10A is placed on receiving section 30. Drive section 60 moves to upper position P2. First locking mechanism 230 moves to unlocked position. Lower end 233 of column member 231 is arranged side by side with first inclined surface 215 in first direction (Y direction).

[0199] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in Embodiment 2 where the container is received by the receiving part and the opening of the container is closed.

[0200] like Figure 16 As shown, container 10A is received by receiving part 30. Container 10A moves toward shell 20 in the first direction (Y direction). At this time, column member 231 abuts against the first inclined surface 215. When container 10A is moved further, column member 231 moves upward along the first inclined surface 215 while applying downward force.

[0201] The container 10A moves while the first locking mechanism 230 slides on the upper surface 211. When the first locking mechanism 230 abuts against the first inclined surface 215 or the upper surface 211, the drive unit 60 is positioned in the lower position P1. By positioning the drive unit 60 in the lower position P1, the lower end 233 of the column member 231 can be located in the through hole 216 (described later) in a position lower than the cover 210 in the Z direction. Thus, the first locking mechanism 230 can be positioned in the locked position.

[0202] The top end of the cover member 40 (the lower end of the side wall portion 41) is positioned parallel to the cover portion 210 in the first direction (Y direction) when the container 10A is placed on the receiving portion 30. The container 10A moves in the first direction (Y direction) until the cover portion 210 abuts against the top end of the cover member 40. The first locking mechanism 230 is inserted into the through hole 216.

[0203] When the first locking mechanism 230 is inserted into the through hole 216, the post member 231 of the first locking mechanism 230 abuts against the pin 205 of the second locking mechanism 240. The elastic force of the elastic part 206 is lower than that of the elastic member 232. Therefore, by the first locking mechanism 230 abutting against the pin 205 in the Z direction, the pin 205 moves downward while being exerted upward force by the elastic part 206. The upper end of the pin 205 moves to approximately the same height as the upper end of the protrusion 204. Thus, the second locking mechanism 240 is in the unlocked state.

[0204] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 2 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0205] like Figure 17 As shown, since the second locking mechanism 240 is in the unlocked state, the opening 202 can be opened and closed. The opening 202 is opened and closed by the main body 200 sliding relative to the cover 210 in the first direction (Y direction). When the main body 200 moves relative to the cover 210, the first locking mechanism 230, which is subjected to an upward force, extends downward and passes through the through hole 216. The first locking mechanism 230 is positioned in the locked position. When the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, the column member 231 is inserted into the through hole 216 in the Z direction.

[0206] The first locking mechanism 230 includes a first part. When the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, the first part is arranged side by side with the cover 210 in a first direction (Y direction) orthogonal to the Z direction. The first part is a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the column member 231.

[0207] The cover 210 includes a second portion. When the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, the second portion engages with the first portion in the first direction (Y direction). The second portion is part of the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 216.

[0208] When the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, the first part and the second part engage with each other in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the cover 210 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction), so that the container 10A cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0209] Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, a portion of the cover 210 is clamped between the column member 231 inserted into the through hole 216 and the top end (lower end of the side wall portion 41) of the cover member 40, thereby restricting the movement of the cover 210 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0210] Furthermore, the main body 200 and the cover 210 are connected to each other in a manner that allows them to slide in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the main body 200 relative to the cover 210 in the Z direction and in the second direction (X direction) orthogonal to the Z direction and the first direction. This restricts the movement of the container 10A relative to the shell 20 in the X, Y, and Z directions, thus preventing the container 10A from being removed from the receiving part 30.

[0211] When the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position, the opening 202 is opened and closed by the main body 200 sliding relative to the cover 210 in the first direction (Y direction) while the cover 210 is in contact with the top end of the cover member 40.

[0212] With the opening 202 open, the opening 202 communicates with the interior 45 of the cover member 40, allowing the ceramic capacitor P (object) to be transferred from the transfer port 22 into the interior space 201. Since the opening 202 communicates only with the interior 45 of the cover member 40 when it is open, it is possible to prevent foreign objects other than the ceramic capacitor P (object) from entering the interior space 201.

[0213] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the first locking mechanism in Embodiment 2 as it moves towards the unlocked position. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An enlarged sectional view of the area surrounding the first locking mechanism.

[0214] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, when the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position and the cover 210 has an open opening 202, the movement of the first locking mechanism 230 from the locked position to the unlocked position is restricted by the column member 231 passing through the through hole 216.

[0215] The lower end 233 of the column member 231 in the Z direction has a shape that continuously changes towards a shape narrower than the cross-section of the column member 231. When the cross-sectional shape of the column member 231 is, for example, circular, the lower end 233 is preferably hemispherical or frustum-shaped. The lower end 233 of the column member 231 protrudes completely from the through hole 216, and the columnar portion of the column member 231 extending in the Z direction is located parallel to the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 216 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0216] The pin 205 has an inclined portion 207. When the opening 202 is closed, the pin 205 abuts against the column member 231 in the first direction (Y direction). The rounded shape of the top end of the column member 231 abuts against the inclined portion 207 in the first direction (Y direction). As a result, the column member 231 can move along the inclined portion 207 in the Z direction. The lower end 233 of the column member 231, which moves upward along the inclined portion 207, moves to a position where it is parallel to the second inclined portion 217 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0217] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container in Embodiment 2 with its opening closed.

[0218] like Figure 20 As shown, the first part separates from the second part in the Z direction, and the first locking mechanism 230 moves to the unlocked position, thereby making the container 10A detachable from the receiving part 30. Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 230 is in the locked position and the cover 210 closes the opening 202, the top part (lower end 233) of the column member 231 moves along the Z direction to a position where it can slide into contact with the second inclined surface 217, thereby making the first locking mechanism 230 able to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0219] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locking mechanism of Embodiment 2 separated from the through hole in the cover.

[0220] like Figure 21 As shown, after the column member 231 is pulled out of the through hole 216, the container 10A can move in the first direction (Y direction). The top end of the column member 231 moves along the upper surface 211 of the cover 210. Thus, the container 10A can be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0221] In the transfer device 1A of this embodiment, a locking mechanism can be constructed by the column member 231 and the through hole 216 into which the column member 231 is inserted, which is structurally robust and prevents foreign matter from entering the internal space 201 of the container 10A for transferring the ceramic capacitor P (object).

[0222] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism in a modified example of Embodiment 2.

[0223] like Figure 22As shown, in the modified example of embodiment 2, the main body 200A of the container 10A is provided with a third inclined surface 208. The third inclined surface 208 is configured to be inclined downward relative to the first direction (Y direction) toward the housing 20. The third inclined surface 208 is smoothly continuous with the first inclined surface 215 of the cover 210 when the opening 202 is closed.

[0224] The first locking mechanism 230 is maintained in the lower position P1. When the container 10A is placed on the receiving part 30 and inserted in the first direction (Y direction), the column member 231 moves upward in the Z direction along the third inclined surface 208 and the first inclined surface 215 while being forced downward by the elastic member 232.

[0225] Since the column member 231 is under downward force, when the column member 231 is inserted into the through hole 216, the circular shape of the top end of the column member 231 fully protrudes from the through hole 216, and the cylindrical portion extending along the Z direction is positioned parallel to the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 216 in the first direction (Y direction). Therefore, if the main body 200A is provided with the third inclined surface 208, when the container 10A is placed on the receiving part 30, it is not necessary to move the first locking mechanism 230 to the upward position P2, and therefore it is not necessary to provide a drive part 60 in the first locking mechanism 230. As a result, the structure of the first locking mechanism 230 can be simplified.

[0226] In the transfer device of the modified embodiment 2, by providing a third inclined surface 208 in the main body 200A, the first locking mechanism 230 can be moved to the unlocked position without controlling the vertical movement of the column member 231. Therefore, the structure of the first locking mechanism 230 can be simplified, and the control of the transfer device can be simplified.

[0227] (Implementation Method 3)

[0228] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 24 This is a side view showing the structure of the container included in the transfer device of Embodiment 3.

[0229] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the transfer device 1B of Embodiment 3 of this disclosure includes a container 10B, a housing 20, a receiving portion 30, a first locking mechanism 330, and a cover member 340. The container 10B has a main body portion 300 and a cover portion 310.

[0230] The main body 300 has a cuboid shape with an internal space 301. The main body 300 includes a bottom surface 305, a side surface 306, and a top surface 307.

[0231] The bottom surface 305 is located below in the Z direction. The bottom surface 305 is the surface that abuts against the housing. An extension 305A is provided on the bottom surface 305, which protrudes in the first direction (Y direction) to a position closer to the housing side than the side surface 306.

[0232] Side portion 306 is erected from bottom portion 305 along the Z direction. Side portion 306 surrounds internal space 301 in both the first direction (Y direction) and the second direction (X direction). Side portion 306 has a front surface 306A and a rear surface 306B. Front surface 306A and rear surface 306B face each other in the first direction (Y direction) with the internal space 301 between them. Front surface 306A is located further from housing 20 than rear surface 306B. Opening 302 is provided on rear surface 306B in side portion 306.

[0233] The upper surface portion 307 is opposite to the bottom portion 305 in the Z direction. The upper surface portion 307 is provided with a recess 308 that is recessed in the Z direction. The recess 308 is located on the side of the opening portion 302 in the first direction (Y direction) of the upper surface portion 307.

[0234] The cover portion 310 is capable of opening and closing the opening portion 302. The cover portion 310 is provided with a track fitting portion (not shown). By fitting this track fitting portion with a track portion (not shown) provided on the side portion 306, the cover portion 310 can slide relative to the side portion 306 in the Z direction. The cover portion 310 can move up and down in the Z direction by means of the elastic member 318 provided on the extension portion 305A.

[0235] The first locking mechanism 330 is connected to and supported by the housing. The first locking mechanism 330 includes a first support body 331, an elastic member 332, a first protrusion 334, and a second protrusion 335. The first support body 331 is a cuboid-shaped block. The first support body 331 is connected to the elastic member 332 and can move up and down in the Z direction through the extension and retraction of the elastic member 332.

[0236] The first protrusion 334 protrudes downward in the Z direction from the lower surface of the first support 331. When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the first protrusion 334 engages with the recess 308.

[0237] The second protrusion 335 protrudes downward in the Z direction from the lower surface of the first support 331. The second protrusion 335 is indirectly connected to the cover portion 310 in the Z direction by means of the top end of the cover member 340. The second protrusion 335 and the cover portion 310 move together in the Z direction.

[0238] The cover member 340 is configured to abut against the upper surface portion 307 when the container 10B is received by the receiving portion. The top end portion of the cover member 340 is configured to be movable so that when the container 10B is placed on the receiving portion, the top end portion of the cover member 340 is positioned in the Z direction alongside the cover portion 310.

[0239] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view showing the opening and closing structure of the cover in Embodiment 3. (e.g.) Figure 25 As shown, the transfer device 1B also includes a cover opening / closing part 70. A hole 311 is provided in the cover 310. The cover opening / closing part 70 allows the cover 310 to move along the Z direction while being inserted into the hole 311. The cover opening / closing part 70 is, for example, an actuator such as a cylinder.

[0240] The operation of the transfer device 1B will be explained below. Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 3 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0241] The first locking mechanism 330 includes a first part. When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the first part is arranged side by side with the main body 300 in the first direction (Y direction). The first part is a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first protrusion 334.

[0242] The main body 300 includes a second part. When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the second part engages with the first part in the first direction (Y direction). The second part is part of the inner peripheral surface of the recess 308.

[0243] When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the first part and the second part engage with each other in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the main body 300 relative to the housing in the first direction (Y direction), so that the container 10B cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0244] Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the movement of the main body 300 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction) is restricted by the engagement of the first protrusion 334 and the recess 308. This restricts the movement of the container 10B relative to the housing 20 in the Y direction, thus making the container 10B unable to be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0245] When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position, the cover 310 slides relative to the main body 300 in the Z direction by the drive of the cover opening / closing part 70, thereby opening and closing the opening 302. The cover member 340 slides together with the cover 310 in the Z direction. When the opening 302 is open, the opening 302 communicates with the cover member 340, allowing the ceramic capacitor P (object) to be moved into the internal space 301. Since the opening 302 communicates only with the cover member 340 when it is open, it is possible to prevent foreign objects other than the ceramic capacitor P (object) from entering the internal space 301.

[0246] When the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position and the cover 310 has an open opening 302, the movement of the first locking mechanism 330 from the locked position to the unlocked position is restricted by the second protrusion 335 moving downward in the Z direction together with the cover 310. When the second protrusion 335 and the cover 310 move downward in the Z direction together, the first protrusion 334 and the recess 308 come into contact in the first direction (Y direction), thus the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position.

[0247] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the first locking mechanism in Embodiment 3 as it moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0248] like Figure 27 As shown, the first part separates from the second part in the Z direction, and the first locking mechanism 330 moves to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the container 10B to be detached from the receiving part 30. Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 330 is in the locked position and the cover 310 closes the opening 302, the second protrusion 335 is located in a position that can move upward in the Z direction together with the cover 310, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism 330 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0249] If the second protrusion 335 moves upward in the Z direction together with the cover 310, and the first protrusion 334 separates from the recess 308, then the first locking mechanism 330 is positioned in the unlocked position. Since the container 10B can move in the first direction (Y direction), the container 10B can be removed from the housing 20.

[0250] In the transfer device 1B of this embodiment, since it is easy to bring the structure of the first locking mechanism 330 close to the housing 20 side, it becomes a device structure that can effectively utilize the amount of space vacated by bringing the structure of the first locking mechanism 330 close to the housing 20 side, and can suppress the situation where foreign matter mixes into the internal space 301 of the container 10B for transferring the ceramic capacitor P (object).

[0251] (Implementation Method 4)

[0252] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the container and the first locking mechanism included in the transfer device of Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0253] like Figure 28 As shown, the transfer device 1C of Embodiment 4 of this disclosure includes a container 10C, a housing 20, a receiving portion 30, a first locking mechanism 430, and a cover member 440. The container 10C has a main body portion 400, a cover portion 410, and a hinge portion 420.

[0254] The cover portion 410 can open and close the opening portion 402 of the main body portion 400. The main body portion 400 and the cover portion 410 are connected by a hinge portion 420. The hinge portion 420 connects the cover portion 410 to the main body portion 400 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the main body portion 400. To improve rotational performance, the hinge portion 420 may also use a bearing or bushing, etc.

[0255] The first locking mechanism 430 is supported on the housing 20 by means of a drive unit (not shown). The first locking mechanism 430 includes a first support body 431 and an extension 432. The first support body 431 is a block extending in the XY plane. The first support body 431 is configured to be movable so that when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position described later, the first support body 431 is positioned alongside the cover 410 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0256] The extension 432 is a block extending in the XZ plane. The extension 432 extends downward in the Z direction from the end of the first support 431 opposite to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction). In addition, the extension 432 is not limited to the structure of the extension 432 in this embodiment, as long as it is configured so that the container 10C cannot be removed from the receiving part 30 when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position.

[0257] The cover member 440 extends at an angle relative to the first direction (Y direction). When the container 10C is placed on the receiving part 30, the top end of the cover member 440 is located in a position parallel to the cover part 410 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0258] The operation of the transfer device 1C is described below. Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the container of Embodiment 4 is received by the receiving part.

[0259] like Figure 29As shown, after the container 10C is placed on the receiving part 30, the first locking mechanism 430 moves downward in the Z direction. The extension 432 moves to a position parallel to the container 10C in the first direction (Y direction). Thus, the first locking mechanism 430 is in a locked position, and the container 10C cannot be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0260] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view showing the container of Embodiment 4 being received by the receiving part and the opening of the container being open.

[0261] like Figure 30 As shown, when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position, the container 10C moves in the first direction (Y direction), causing the cover member 440 to be inserted between the main body 400 and the cover 410 from the side opposite to the side where the hinge portion 420 is provided in the first direction (Y direction). This allows the cover 410 to rotate using the cover member 440, thereby opening the opening 402.

[0262] The first locking mechanism 430 includes a first part. When the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position, the first part is arranged side by side with the cover 410 in the first direction (Y direction). The first part is part of the circumferential surface of the first support 431.

[0263] The cover 410 includes a second portion. When the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position, the second portion engages with the first portion in the first direction (Y direction). The second portion is the part of the cover 410 that is opposite to a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support 431 in the first direction (Y direction) when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position.

[0264] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in Embodiment 4 where the container cannot be removed from the receiving part when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position.

[0265] like Figure 31 As shown, when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position, the first part and the second part engage with each other in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the cover 410 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction), making the container 10C unable to be removed from the receiving part 30. Specifically, when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position, the cover 410 is clamped between the cover member 440 and the first support 431 in the first direction (Y direction), thereby restricting the movement of the cover 410 relative to the housing 20 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0266] like Figure 30As shown, with the opening 402 open, the opening 402 communicates with the cover member 440, allowing the ceramic capacitor P (object) to be moved into the interior space 401. Since the opening 402 communicates only with the interior 445 of the cover member 440 when it is open, it can prevent foreign objects other than the ceramic capacitor P (object) from entering the interior space 401.

[0267] When the container 10C is removed from the receiving part 30, the first part separates from the second part in the Z direction, and the first locking mechanism 430 moves to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the container 10C to be removed from the receiving part 30. Specifically, as Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, when the first locking mechanism 430 is in the locked position and the cover 410 closes the opening 402, the first support 431 moves away from the cover 410, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism 430 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0268] If the first locking mechanism 430 moves upward, the extension 432 moves to a position where it is not parallel to the cover 410 in the first direction (Y direction), then the first locking mechanism 430 is positioned in the unlocked position. Since the container 10C can move in the first direction (Y direction), the container 10C can be removed from the receiving part 30.

[0269] In the transfer device 1C of this embodiment, the opening and closing mechanism of the cover 410, which is composed of a hinge 420, relative to the main body 400, can restrict the position of the cover 410 with the simple structure of the first locking mechanism 430 and suppress the situation where foreign matter is mixed into the internal space 401 of the container 10C for transferring ceramic capacitor P (object).

[0270] The container 10C and cover member 440 of Embodiment 4 described above can also be described as follows.

[0271] The cover member 440 is configured to cover the opening 402. The lid 410 is rotatably connected to the main body 400, thereby allowing the opening 402 to be opened and closed. When the container 10C is received by the receiving part 30, the top end of the cover member 440 is positioned side-by-side with the lid 410. The cover member 440 extends at an angle relative to the direction in which the top end of the cover member 440 and the lid 410 are side-by-side (Y direction).

[0272] By moving the container 10C along the Y direction, the cover member 440 is inserted between the main body 400 and the cover 410 in the Y direction, thereby using the cover member 440 to rotate the cover 410 and open the opening 402.

[0273] When the opening 402 is open using the cover member 440, the internal space 401 communicates with the transfer port 22 through the interior 445 of the cover member 440. When the cover 410 is separated from the cover member 440, the cover 410 closes the opening 402. This prevents foreign matter from entering the internal space 401 of the container 10C for transferring the ceramic capacitor P (object).

[0274] In the above description of the embodiments, the combinable structures can also be combined with each other.

[0275] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the claims rather than by the foregoing description and is intended to include all modifications in the same sense and scope as the claims.

[0276] In the embodiments described above, the approximately vertical direction (Z direction) refers to any direction with an inclination angle relative to the vertical direction, for example, within the range of -10° to 10°. Further, any direction orthogonal to the approximately vertical direction (Z direction) is designated as the first direction (Y direction), and a direction orthogonal to both the approximately vertical direction (Z direction) and the first direction is designated as the second direction (X direction). The direction in which the container moves and is received by the receiving part is the first direction (Y direction).

[0277] In the above embodiments, leaf springs or elastic members can be used instead of plungers. However, plungers are specialized components specifically designed for positioning, and they are advantageous in terms of accuracy and durability during repeated use.

Claims

1. A transfer device, wherein, The transfer device has the following features: A container includes a main body and a lid. The main body has an internal space capable of holding an object and an opening connected to the internal space. The lid opens and closes the opening. The housing has a transfer port for transferring the object; A receiving part, which is fixed to the housing, receives the container; as well as A first locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position locks the container received by the receiving part in a position where it cannot be removed from the receiving part, and the unlocked position allows the container to be removed from the receiving part. When the lid opens the opening while the container is received by the receiving part, the internal space communicates with the transfer port, and the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, thus preventing the container from being removed from the receiving part. When the lid closes the opening while the container is being received by the receiving part, the first locking mechanism moves to the unlocked position, thereby enabling the container to be removed from the receiving part.

2. The transfer device according to claim 1, wherein, The first locking mechanism includes a first part, which, when in the locked position, is arranged side-by-side with the main body or the cover in a first direction orthogonal to the generally vertical direction. The main body or the cover includes a second part, which engages with the first part in the first direction when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the first part and the second part engage with each other in the first direction, thereby restricting the movement of the main body or the cover relative to the housing in the first direction, thus preventing the container from being detached from the receiving part. The first locking mechanism moves to the unlocked position as the first part separates from the second part in the generally vertical direction, thereby enabling the container to be detached from the receiving part.

3. The transfer device according to claim 2, wherein, The transfer device also includes a cover member connected to the transfer port of the housing and configured to cover the opening. When the opening is opened in the cover, the interior space communicates with the transfer port through the interior of the cover member.

4. The transfer device according to claim 3, wherein, The main body is positioned below the cover in the generally vertical direction. The opening is opened and closed by sliding the main body.

5. The transfer device according to claim 4, wherein, The top end of the cover member is located in a position parallel to the cover in the first direction when the container is placed on the receiving part. The first locking mechanism includes a first support body, which, when in the locked position, is positioned parallel to the cover on the side opposite to the top end of the cover member in the first direction when viewed from the cover. The first part is a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support. The second part is the portion of the end face of the cover that is opposite to a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support in the first direction when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the cover is clamped between the top end of the cover member and the first support in the first direction, thereby restricting the movement of the cover relative to the housing in the first direction. The main body and the cover are connected to each other in a manner that allows them to slide in the first direction, thereby restricting the movement of the main body relative to the cover in the generally vertical direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the generally vertical direction and the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, with the cover abutting against the top end of the cover member, the main body slides relative to the cover in the first direction, thereby opening and closing the opening. The first locking mechanism further includes a first plunger, which is disposed on the first support and is capable of extending and retracting in the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover is open at the opening, the first plunger extends and engages with the cover, thereby restricting the movement of the first locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover closes the opening, the main body abuts against the first plunger, causing the first plunger to retract, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

6. The transfer device according to claim 4, wherein, The top end of the cover member is located in a position parallel to the cover in the first direction when the container is placed on the receiving part. The cover portion is provided with a through hole extending in the generally vertical direction. The first locking mechanism includes a column member that, when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, is inserted into the through hole in the generally vertical direction. The first part is a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the column member. The second part is a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the through hole. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, a portion of the cover is clamped between the top end of the pillar member inserted into the through hole and the cover member, thereby restricting the movement of the cover relative to the housing in the first direction. The main body and the cover are connected to each other in a manner that allows them to slide in the first direction, thereby restricting the movement of the main body relative to the cover in the generally vertical direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the generally vertical direction and the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, with the cover abutting against the top end of the cover member, the main body slides relative to the cover in the first direction, thereby opening and closing the opening. The container is provided with an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover is in the open position, the movement of the first locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position is restricted by the column member passing through the through hole. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover closes the opening, the top end of the column member moves along the generally vertical direction to a position where it can slide into contact with the inclined face, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

7. The transfer device according to claim 3, wherein, The main body includes a bottom portion, a side portion that is erected vertically from the bottom portion along the generally vertical direction, and an upper surface portion that is opposite to the bottom portion in the generally vertical direction. The side portion has the opening, and the upper surface portion has a recess that is recessed in the generally vertical direction. The top end of the cover member is configured to be movable so that when the container is placed on the receiving portion, the top end of the cover member is positioned parallel to the cover in the generally vertical direction. The first locking mechanism includes a first protrusion that engages with the recess when in the locked position. The first part is a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first protrusion. The second part is a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the recess. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the movement of the main body relative to the housing in the first direction is restricted by the engagement of the first protrusion and the recess. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the opening is opened and closed by the cover sliding relative to the main body in the generally vertical direction. The first locking mechanism further includes a second protrusion, which is indirectly connected to the cover portion in the generally vertical direction via the top end portion of the cover member, thereby moving in conjunction with the cover portion along the generally vertical direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover is in the open position, the movement of the first locking mechanism from the locked position to the unlocked position is restricted by the second protrusion moving downward in the generally vertical direction together with the cover. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover closes the opening, the second protrusion is positioned so that it can move upward in the generally vertical direction together with the cover, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

8. The transfer device according to claim 3, wherein, The cover member extends in an inclined manner relative to the first direction. The top end of the cover member is located in a position parallel to the cover in the first direction when the container is placed on the receiving part. The container also includes a hinge that connects the lid to the main body in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the main body. The first locking mechanism includes a first support body, which is configured to be movable such that when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the first support body is positioned parallel to the cover in the first direction. The first part is a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support. The second part is the portion of the cover that, when the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, is opposite to a portion of the circumferential surface of the first support in the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the movement of the cover relative to the housing in the first direction is restricted by the cover being clamped between the cover member and the first support body in the first direction. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the container moves along the first direction, causing the cover member to be inserted between the main body and the lid from the side opposite to the side where the hinge is located in the first direction. This allows the lid to be rotated using the cover member, thereby opening the opening. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position and the cover closes the opening, the first support moves away from the cover, thereby enabling the first locking mechanism to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

9. The transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The transfer device also includes a second locking mechanism that can fix the relative position of the main body and the cover so that the opening will not open.

10. The transfer device according to claim 9, wherein, The transfer device also includes a switching mechanism that can contact and separate from the second locking mechanism to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locked state is when the container is received by the receiving part and the second locking mechanism is engaged to fix the relative position of the main body and the cover. The unlocked state is when the second locking mechanism is released and the fixation of the relative position of the main body and the cover is released.

11. The transfer device according to claim 10, wherein, The switching mechanism and the first locking mechanism are integrally formed. When the switching mechanism is used to release the second locking mechanism from the cover, thus disengaging the main body from the cover, the first locking mechanism is positioned in the locked position, preventing the container from being detached from the receiving part. When the main body and the cover are fixed in the locked state with the opening closed by the second locking mechanism, the container is moved to the unlocked position by the first locking mechanism, thereby making the container detachable from the receiving part.

12. The transfer device according to claim 1, wherein, The transfer device also includes a cover member connected to the transfer port of the housing and configured to cover the opening. When the opening is opened in the cover, the interior space communicates with the transfer port through the interior of the cover member.

13. A transfer device, wherein, The transfer device has the following features: A container includes a main body and a lid. The main body has an internal space capable of holding an object and an opening connected to the internal space. The lid opens and closes the opening. The housing has a transfer port for transferring the object; A receiving part, which is fixed to the housing, receives the container; as well as A cover member, which is connected to the transfer port of the housing and configured to cover the opening. The cover is connected to the main body in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the main body, thereby enabling the opening to be opened and closed. With the container received by the receiving part, the top end of the cover member is positioned parallel to the lid. The cover member extends at an angle relative to the top portion of the cover member and the cover portion in a parallel direction. By moving the container along the parallel direction, the cover member is inserted between the main body and the lid in the parallel direction, thereby using the cover member to rotate the lid and open the opening. With the cover and the cover member separated, the cover closes the opening. When the opening is open, the interior space communicates with the transfer port through the interior of the cover member.

Images