Replacement frame, printing device, printing system, and control method for printing device

Abstract

A replacement frame is used in a printing apparatus that positions a screen mask relative to a substrate at a printing position and performs printing of a viscous fluid. The replacement frame includes: a frame body that supports the screen mask; and a fixing part that fixes the screen mask at an eccentric position on one side of the outer periphery of the frame body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification discloses methods for changing the frame, printing apparatus, printing system, and control of the printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, a mounting and association device, such as a printing apparatus that uses a screen mask to print a viscous fluid onto a substrate, has been proposed with a receiving section that receives a housing support having multiple frames that house a frame capable of supporting replaceable parts related to the printing process performed by the printing section (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this printing apparatus, the replaceable parts can be automatically changed, thus further reducing the workload of the operator.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2022 / 168145 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] However, in the aforementioned printing apparatus, for example, a replacement frame with a fixed screen mask is sometimes used to change the screen mask. Furthermore, screen masks come in various sizes, and with smaller screen masks, when the screen mask is fixed in the center of the replacement frame, the blank area sometimes becomes larger. When using such a screen mask, for example in a printing apparatus having multiple substrate handling sections for transporting and fixing substrates, the screen mask may not be able to reach the inner substrate handling section, sometimes resulting in a situation where printing cannot be performed.

[0007] This disclosure was made in view of the following issues, and its main purpose is to provide a change frame, printing apparatus, printing system and control method for printing apparatus that can more reliably perform printing processes during screen mask changeover.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] The replacement frame, printing apparatus, printing system, and control method of the printing apparatus disclosed in this specification employ the following means to achieve the aforementioned main objectives.

[0010] The replacement frame disclosed herein is used in a printing apparatus that positions a screen mask relative to a substrate at a printing position and performs printing processing on a viscous fluid. The aforementioned replacement frame has the following features: The frame supports the aforementioned screen mask; and The fixing part fixes the above-mentioned wire mesh mask to an off-center position on one side of the outer periphery of the frame.

[0011] In this replacement frame, the screen mask is fixed at an off-center position on one side of the outer periphery of the frame, leaving blank areas without the screen mask. This allows for more reliable placement of the screen mask on the substrate. Consequently, in this replacement frame, the printing process can be performed more reliably in the printing apparatus that replaces the screen mask. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the installation system 10 and the printing device 11.

[0013] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the printing device 11 and the housing support 43.

[0014] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information stored in storage unit 22.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the replacement frame 161 that fixes the screen mask M to the center.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the replacement frame 61 that fixes the screen mask M to an eccentric position.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a flowchart representing an example of changing a processing routine.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a flowchart representing an example of a manually configured processing routine.

[0019] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram for detecting and replacing the frame widths L1 and L2.

[0020] Figure 9 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the replacement process for frame 62.

[0021] Figure 10 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the replacement process for a small-sized replacement frame 62.

[0022] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram of an example of a replacement process using a replacement frame 161 with a fixing part 65.

[0023] Figure 12 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of replacement processing under dual-channel conditions by replacing frame 161.

[0024] Figure 13 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of replacement processing under dual-channel conditions by replacing frame 61.

[0025] Figure 14This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of switching processing under dual channels through various switching frameworks. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an example of the installation system 10 and printing apparatus 11 of this disclosure. Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the printing device 11 and the housing support 43. Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of printing task information 22a and replacement condition information 22b stored in the storage unit 22.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the replacement frame 161 that fixes the screen mask M to the center. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the replacement frame 61 that fixes the screen mask M to an eccentric position. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left-right direction (X-axis), front-back direction (Y-axis), and up-down direction (Z-axis) are as follows... Figure 1 , 2 As shown. In addition, for ease of explanation, printing devices 11a and 11b will be referred to as printing device 11, and replacement frames 60, 61, 62 and 161 will be referred to as replacement frames.

[0028] The mounting system 10 includes: a printing apparatus 11, a printing inspection apparatus 12, a storage apparatus 13, an automated guided vehicle 14, a mounting apparatus 15, a mounting inspection apparatus 16, a loader 18, a reflow soldering apparatus (not shown), and a management computer (PC) 19. The mounting system 10 is configured, for example, as a production line in which mounting apparatus 15, which mount processing elements P onto the substrate S (the object of processing), are arranged downstream of the printing apparatus 11 along the transport direction of the substrate S. In the mounting system 10, the mounting-related apparatuses associated with the mounting process, in addition to the printing apparatus 11, include a transport apparatus for transporting the substrate S, the printing apparatus 11, the printing inspection apparatus 12, the storage apparatus 13, the mounting apparatus 15, the mounting inspection apparatus 16, the loader 18, and the reflow soldering apparatus. The mounting system 10 is configured to include a printing system 10a, which includes printing apparatus 11a and printing apparatus 11b. The printing system 10a includes a printing apparatus 11 having two transport paths for transporting substrates S, and is configured to enable the printing apparatus 11a to perform printing on the first transport path and the printing apparatus 11b to perform printing on the second transport path.

[0029] The printing inspection device 12 is used to inspect the state of viscous fluids such as solder paste printed on the substrate S by the printing device 11. The storage device 13 is a temporary storage location for the feeder containing component P. The automated guided vehicle 14 is a device that automatically transports the feeder between a preparation warehouse (not shown) and the storage device 13. The mounting device 15 is a device that performs the mounting process of placing component P onto the substrate S. The mounting inspection device 16 is a device that inspects the state of component P mounted on the substrate S. The loader 18 is configured as a mobile work device that moves in the left-right direction along the X-axis track 17 on the front surface side of the mounting device 15, and automatically disassembles, retrieves, and replenishes mounting-related components used by the mounting device 15, such as the feeder. The reflow soldering device is a device that performs reflow soldering on the substrate with solder printed on it and component P mounted on it. The management PC 19 is a device that manages information about each device in the mounting system 10. This management PC 19 manages the progress of each device in the production line undergoing the mounting process.

[0030] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the printing apparatus 11 is an apparatus that uses a squeegee 26 to press solder from the screen mask M into patterned holes formed in the screen mask M, thereby applying (printing) the solder, which is a viscous fluid, onto the substrate S below, which is the object to be processed, through these patterned holes. Here, "object to be processed" can be, for example, the substrate S on which the mounting element P is mounted, and a substrate that is a three-dimensional object. "Viscous fluid" can be, for example, solder paste, conductive paste, adhesive, etc. Here, the substrate S and solder paste will be described as examples. The screen mask M is fixed to the inside of the replacement frame. The replacement frames 60-62, 161 can fix various sizes of screen masks M and other replacement components, and have a receiving portion 44 that is housed in the receiving bracket 43. Figure 2 As shown, the printing apparatus 11 includes: a control device 20, a printing unit 23, a mask processing unit 27, a substrate processing unit 30, a cleaning unit 37, a fluid supply unit 38, an operation panel 39, a replacement unit 40, and a housing support 43.

[0031] The control device 20 is configured as a microprocessor centered on the printing control unit 21, and controls the entire printing apparatus 11. In addition to outputting signals to the printing unit 23, mask processing unit 27, substrate processing unit 30, cleaning unit 37, fluid supply unit 38, operation panel 39, and change unit 40, the control device 20 also outputs signals to the management PC 19, which is an external device. Furthermore, in addition to receiving signals from the printing unit 23, mask processing unit 27, substrate processing unit 30, cleaning unit 37, fluid supply unit 38, operation panel 39, and change unit 40, the control device 20 also receives signals from the management PC 19, which is an external device. This control device 20 includes a storage unit 22. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different device.) Figure 3As shown, the storage unit 22 stores printing task information 22a, which includes the conditions for performing printing, and replacement condition information 22b, which includes the reference destination for configuring the recycling position, determined for each replacement frame. Additionally, the storage unit 22 stores replacement frame information that establishes a correspondence between the position of the screen mask M fixed to the replacement frame and the identification information (ID) of the replacement frame, information about the substrate S to be printed, a printing process for printing the substrate S, and a replacement process for performing the replacement process of the replacement part by the replacement unit 28.

[0032] The printing unit 23 is located on the upper layer of the printing apparatus 11 and is a unit that uses a screen mask M to print viscous fluid onto the substrate S. For example... Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the printing unit 23 includes: a printing head 24, a printing moving part 25, a squeegee lifting part (not shown), and a squeegee 26. The printing moving part 25 moves the printing head 24 along a predetermined printing direction (here, the front-to-back direction), and includes a guide formed along the front-to-back direction, a slider that moves along the guide, and a motor that drives the slider. The printing head 24 moves within a predetermined movable area A (see description below). Figures 11-13 (etc.). The scraper 26 is disposed on the lower surface of the print head 24 and is raised and lowered by the scraper lifting part. The printing part 23 has two scrapers 26 used in the front-rear direction respectively. The print head 24 is provided with a replacement part 28 and a measuring part 47. The replacement part 28 is a unit used when replacing the replacement frames 60-62, 161. The measuring part 47 is a unit that detects the height of an object located below the print head 24, for example, it can measure the width of the frame 63 of the replacement frame, etc.

[0033] like Figure 2As shown, the mask working unit 27 is disposed vertically between the printing unit 23 and the substrate processing unit 30, and is a unit for fixing and holding the screen mask M. The mask working unit 27 consists of a replacement unit 28 and a mask fixing unit 29. The replacement unit 28 moves the replacement frame, on which the screen mask M is fixed, between the mask working unit 27 side, which is the printing position, and the passage 45, which is the loading and unloading section. The replacement unit 28 is used when pulling the replacement frame from the receiving bracket 43 into the housing of the printing apparatus 11 and when pushing the replacement frame from the housing of the printing apparatus 11 into the receiving bracket 43. The replacement unit 28 is a conveyor rod provided on the print head 24, which is raised and lowered between an contact position (dashed line) and a standby position (solid line) that abuts against the screen mask M by a cylinder (not shown). The print head 24 and the replacement unit 28 engage with the replacement frame, causing the replacement frame to move between the frame portion of the receiving bracket 43 at a predetermined height and the printing unit 23. The mask fixing part 29 positions and supports the screen mask M in a horizontal position. The screen mask M is pressed by the replacement part 28 and moves back and forth along the guide of the mask working part 27, and is fixed by the mask fixing part 29. The replacement frame moves inside and outside the housing through the passage 45 provided in the middle of the front surface of the housing of the printing device 11 (see reference). Figure 2 Additionally, a camera 48 is provided at the center of the front surface of the housing of the printing apparatus 11. This camera 48 reads the identification information 66 disposed in the replacement frame housed in the housing 44. Furthermore, in the mask operation unit 27, a mask stop 49 is provided at the rear end of the movable area A to restrict the movement of the replacement frame (see description below). Figures 11-13 wait).

[0034] The substrate processing unit 30 is disposed below the mask processing unit 27. It is a unit that receives the substrate S, positions and supports the received substrate S, and brings it into contact with and separates it from the screen mask M. The substrate processing unit 30 has a first unit 31 serving as a first transport path for the substrate S and a second unit 32 serving as a second transport path for the substrate S. The first unit 31 is disposed on the side of the port 45, which serves as the inlet / outlet section of the screen mask M, and includes a substrate transport unit 33, a lifting unit 34, and a support block 50. The second unit 32 is disposed on the side further inward than the inlet / outlet section, and includes a substrate transport unit 35, a lifting unit 34, and a support block 50. The substrate transport units 33 and 35 transport and fix the substrate S in a left-right direction. The lifting units 34 and 36 raise or lower the entire substrate processing unit 30 or the support block 50. The support block 50 supports the substrate S from below.

[0035] The cleaning unit 37 is disposed vertically between the mask processing unit 27 and the substrate processing unit 30, and is a unit for cleaning the back side of the screen mask M. The cleaning unit 37 has a cleaning component that abuts against and cleans the screen mask M. The fluid supply unit 38 is a unit that supplies solder contained in a cartridge to the screen mask M. The fluid supply unit 38 is disposed in front of the print head 24. The fluid supply unit 38 applies pressure to the cartridge to discharge the solder. The cleaning component and the cartridge are consumables and are replaceable parts as needed. The operation panel 39 is a unit that receives input from the operator W and provides information to the operator W. The operation panel 39 has a display section as a display and an operation section with touch panel and buttons.

[0036] The replacement unit 40 is a unit that automatically replaces replacement parts by moving the receiving bracket 43, which houses the replacement parts used in the printing apparatus 11, between a standby position and a replacement position. The replacement unit 40 is located on the left and right sides of the housing of the printing apparatus 11. The replacement unit 40 includes a bracket moving part 41 and a frame moving part 42. The bracket moving part 41 supports the side of the receiving bracket 43, allowing it to move between a standby position inside the housing and a replacement position where the replacement frame faces the through-hole 45. The frame moving part 42 includes a belt drive device, which is inserted into the through slots formed on the left and right sides of the receiving portion 44 of the receiving bracket 43, and abuts against the side of the replacement frame to move it.

[0037] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the receiving support 43 is a receiving and conveying device that houses the replacement frames 60-62, 161, etc., in a frame-like shape and is movable. The receiving support 43 only houses the replacement frames and does not have a power source such as a drive unit to move the replacement frames or a drive unit to raise or lower the replacement frames. In this receiving support 43, the structure can be further simplified. The operator W can move the receiving support 43 by holding the handle, and the automated guided vehicle 14 can also move it by entering the lower central space.

[0038] The replacement frames 60-62 and 161 are frames that support the replacement parts used in the printing apparatus 11, and are components housed in the housing bracket 43, forming a frame. The screen mask M, as a replacement part, is fixed to the mask working section 27 while fixed to the replacement frame 60, and is used for printing processing. Depending on the size of the screen mask M, the replacement frames can be either frames that directly fix the screen mask M (replacement frames 60 and 62) or frames that fix the screen mask M via a holding part 64 (replacement frames 61 and 161). Figure 1 As shown, the replacement frame 60 is a fixing frame for a dual-mask system that allows the screen mask M to abut against the substrate S fixed to the first transport path and the substrate S fixed to the second transport path respectively to perform the printing process. Figure 1As shown, the replacement frame 62 is a fixed frame for a single mask that allows a substrate S to abut against a screen mask M to perform the printing process.

[0039] like Figure 4 As shown, the replacement frame 161 is a single mask that abuts the screen mask M against a substrate S. The screen mask M is relatively small, and a frame, namely the holding part 64, is used as an accessory. The replacement frame 161 includes: a frame 63, a holding part 64, a fixing part 65, and identification information 66. The frame 63 is a component that supports the screen mask M. The frame 63 can also be a component disposed on the outermost periphery of the replacement frame 61. The holding part 64 is a frame that serves as an accessory for fixing the small screen mask M. The screen mask M is fixed in the center of the holding part 64. The fixing part 65 is a component that fixes the holding part 64 to the frame 63 at a predetermined position. In addition to being fixed by the fixing part 65, the holding part 64 is also supported by multiple support members 67 disposed on its outer periphery. The fixing part 65 is a flat plate. In the replacement frame 161, considering the stability of the screen mask M, the holding part 64 is fixed to the center of the frame 63 by the fixing part 65. Identification information 66 represents inherent information for the replacement frame 161 and is provided on the front side of the face in the loading direction D when moving from the receiving bracket 43 to the mask operation section 27.

[0040] like Figure 5 As shown, the replacement frame 61 is a single mask that abuts the screen mask M against a substrate S. The screen mask M is relatively small, and a frame, namely a holding part 64, is used as an accessory. The replacement frame 61 includes: a frame 63, a holding part 64, a fixing part 65, and identification information 66. The frame 63 is a component that supports the screen mask M. The frame 63 can also be a component disposed on the outermost periphery of the replacement frame 61. The holding part 64 is a frame that serves as an accessory to fix the small screen mask M. The screen mask M is fixed in the center of the holding part 64. The fixing part 65 is a component that fixes the holding part 64 to the frame 63 at a predetermined position. The fixing part 65 is a flat plate formed in a T-shape or L-shape. In the replacement frame 61, considering the usability of the screen mask M in the second transport path, the holding part 64 is fixed by the fixing part 65 to an off-center position on one side biased towards the outer periphery of the frame 63. In the replacement frame 61, the retaining part 64 is fixed in an eccentric position against the front side surface in the loading direction D when moving from the receiving bracket 43 to the mask working unit 27. In addition to being fixed by the fixing part 65, the retaining part 64 is also supported by a plurality of support members 67 disposed on its outer periphery. Identification information 66 indicates information inherent to the replacement frame 61 and is disposed on the front side surface in the loading direction D when moving from the receiving bracket 43 to the mask working unit 27.

[0041] Next, a summary of the printing process of the printing apparatus 11 configured as described will be given. During the printing process, the operator W performs the operations of receiving the replacement frame into the receiving bracket 43, moving the receiving bracket 43 towards the replacement unit 40, and receiving it in the replacement unit 40. After the replacement unit 40 receives the receiving bracket 43, the operator W inputs the execution command for the printing process from the operation panel 39. When the operator W inputs the execution command for the printing process, the printing control unit 21 of the control device 20 starts the printing process routine. The printing control unit 21 performs the replacement process of the screen mask M as needed, and transports and fixes the substrate S through the substrate processing unit 30. Next, the printing control unit 21 adjusts the position of the screen mask M through the mask processing unit 27 to align the pattern holes with the substrate S. Next, the printing control unit 21 discharges solder from the cartridge onto the screen mask M, moves the printing head 24 and lowers the squeegee 26 so that the squeegee 26 comes into contact with the upper surface of the screen mask M, and moves the squeegee 26 in the front-back direction to print solder onto the substrate S.

[0042] Next, the replacement process for the screen mask M will be explained. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a replacement process routine executed by the printing control unit 21. This routine is stored in the storage unit 22 and executed after the printing apparatus 11 is started. When this routine is executed, the printing control unit 21 determines whether it is a replacement timing for the screen mask M (S100). Replacement timings may include, for example, the end of production of the current substrate S, the start of production of the next substrate S, etc. When it is a replacement timing for the screen mask M, the printing control unit 21 reads from the storage unit 22 stored information containing the position where the screen mask M was positioned in the previous printing process (S110), and based on the position contained in the stored information, performs a retrieval process for the replacement frame with the screen mask M fixed on it (S120). In the retrieval process, the printing control unit 21 abuts the replacement unit 28 against the end of the replacement frame 60 and moves the replacement frame toward the receiving support 43.

[0043] Next, the printing control unit 21 reads and obtains the printing task information 22a from the storage unit 22 (S130), and determines whether the screen mask M is configured by the changing unit 40 based on the information stored in the printing task information 22a (S140). If the screen mask M is not configured by the changing unit 40, the printing control unit 21 performs a manual configuration process (S150). The manual configuration process is, for example, performed by the operator W, inserting the changing frame with the screen mask M fixed on it from the through port 45 into the mask working unit 27. This manual configuration process is performed after the operator W moves the changing frame into the device, and the printing control unit 21 controls the changing unit 28 to move the changing frame to the appropriate position in the mask working unit 27.

[0044] Figure 7This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a manual configuration processing routine executed by the printing control unit 21. This routine is stored in the storage unit 22 and executed in step S150 of the replacement processing routine. When this routine is executed, the printing control unit 21 first causes the imaging unit 48 to read the identification information 66 of the replacement frame loaded through the port 45, thereby obtaining the identification information of the replacement frame (S300). Next, the printing control unit 21 determines, based on the obtained identification information, whether the configuration target is a dual-mask, a single-mask, or a frame using the holding unit 64 (S310). When the configuration target is a dual-mask replacement frame 60, the printing control unit 21 moves the screen mask M to a position based on the printing task information 22a (S320) and ends the routine. On the other hand, when the configuration target is a replacement frame 61 or 161 using the holding unit 64, the screen mask M is moved to a position based on the frame width detection result of the measuring unit 47 (S330) and ends the routine. On the other hand, when the configuration object is a single mask, the printing control unit 21 moves the screen mask M to the printing position based on the printing task information 22a (S340) and ends the routine.

[0045] When manually configuring the replacement frame, the printing control unit 21 cannot read the identification information 66 through the imaging unit 48. Therefore, when the replacement frame is a double mask or a single mask, the printing control unit 21 performs the replacement frame configuration processing based on the information contained in the printing task information 22a. In addition, in replacement frames using the holding unit 64, it is sometimes unclear where the screen mask M is fixed. Therefore, the printing control unit 21 uses the measuring unit 47 to perform frame width detection processing of the replacement frame to determine the replacement frame. Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram for inspecting and replacing the frame widths L1 and L2. Figure 8 (A) is an explanatory diagram of replacing frame 161. Figure 8 (B) is an explanatory diagram of the replacement frame 61. The printing control unit 21 can determine the replacement frame by detecting the width L1 of the frame 63 and the width L2 of the holding part 64 based on the measurement results of the measuring unit 47. Therefore, the printing control unit 21 can position the screen mask M toward the printing position.

[0046] Then, returning to the replacement processing routine, in S140, during the configuration processing performed by the replacement unit 40, the system investigates which replacement frame the configuration target is based on the printing task information 22a (S160). When the configuration target is a dual-mask replacement frame 60, the printing control unit 21 controls the replacement unit 28 to move the screen mask M to the printing position based on the printing task information 22a (S170). Furthermore, when the configuration target is a replacement frame 161, 61 using the holding unit 64, the system controls the replacement unit 28 to move the screen mask M to the printing position based on the replacement frame identification information (S180). For various replacement frames 161, 61 at fixed positions of the holding unit 64, the printing control unit 21 can use the imaging unit 48, which can be utilized by the replacement unit 40, to obtain the replacement frame identification information 66 and determine the replacement frame. In addition, when the replacement frame 62 is configured as a single mask, the replacement unit 28 is controlled to move the screen mask M to the printing position based on the printing task information 22a (S190).

[0047] After S170, 180, and S190, the printing control unit 21 stores the configuration position and the configured replacement frame as storage information in the storage unit 22 (S200). This stored information is used when the replacement frame is retrieved in S120. Furthermore, after S200, or if it is not a screen mask M replacement timing in S100, the printing control unit 21 determines whether the printing process is complete (S210). If the printing process is not complete, the printing control unit 21 executes the processing after S100. On the other hand, if the printing process ends in S210, the routine terminates.

[0048] Here, we will explain the different uses of frames 60~62 and 161. Figure 9 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the replacement process for frame 62. Figure 9 (A) is the initial position for replacing frame 62. Figure 9 (B) is a drawing showing the replacement of frame 62. Figure 9 (C) is a diagram showing the movement of the replacement frame 62 via the replacement part 28. Figure 10 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the replacement process for a small-sized replacement frame 62. Figure 10 (A) is a diagram showing the replacement of the initial position of frame 62. Figure 10 (B) is the diagram for replacing frame 62. Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the replacement process using a replacement frame 161 with a retaining part 64 and a fixing part 65. Figure 11 (A) is the initial position for replacing frame 161. Figure 11 (B) is the drawing for replacing frame 161. Figure 11(C) is a diagram showing the movement of the replacement frame 161 via the replacement part 28. Figure 12 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of replacement processing under dual-channel configuration by replacing frame 161. Figure 12 (A) is a drawing showing the replacement of frame 161. Figure 12 (B) is a diagram showing the movement of the replacement frame 62 by means of the replacement part 28. Figure 13 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of replacement processing under dual-channel conditions by replacing frame 61. Figure 13 (A) is a drawing showing the replacement of frame 61. Figure 13 (B) is a diagram showing the movement of the replacement frame 61 by means of the replacement part 28. Figure 14 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of dual-channel replacement processing using various frame replacement methods. Figure 14 (A) is a drawing showing the replacement of frame 60. Figure 14 (B) is a diagram showing the replacement frame 60 positioned in the printing position. Figure 14 (C) sent out the drawing for replacing frame 161. Figure 14 (D) is a diagram showing the replacement frame 161 positioned at the printing position on the first transport path. Figure 14 (E) is a diagram showing the replacement of frame 61. Figure 14 (F) is a diagram showing the replacement frame 61 positioned at the printing position in the second transport path.

[0049] like Figure 9 As shown, in the replacement frame 62 of a single mask where the screen mask M is of a typical size, the printing control unit 21 can move the screen mask M to the printing position via the frame moving part 42 and the replacement part 28. However, when a small-sized screen mask M is fixed to a small-sized frame 63, as... Figure 10 As shown, the frame cannot reach the movable area A of the print head 24 and cannot move. Therefore, the small-sized screen mask M is fixed to the holding part 64, and a replacement frame 161 fixed in its center is used for stability. In a single mask, as... Figure 11 As shown, this allows a small-sized screen mask M to be moved towards the printing position. On the other hand, as... Figure 12 As shown, when changing the frame 161 to be positioned on the second transport path, sometimes even after moving to the mask stop 49, the screen mask M cannot be moved to the printing position on the substrate S. In systems configured as printing system 10a, where printing is performed in the first unit 31 of the first transport path in printing apparatus 11a and in the second unit 32 of the second transport path in printing apparatus 11b, it is sometimes desirable to properly position the screen mask M on the side of the second unit 32. Therefore, as... Figure 13As shown, by using a replacement frame 61 with a holding part 64 fixed to the front end side in the loading direction D, printing in the first unit 31 and the second unit 32 can be performed in the printing apparatus 11. In this replacement frame 61, when the fixing part 65 of the holding part 64 is fixed to the replacement frame 161 at the center of the frame 63, it is in a position where printing on the substrate S is not possible. On the other hand, by fixing the screen mask M in an off-center position, the screen mask M can be fixed to a position where it is disposed on the substrate S. Alternatively, when the fixing part 65 of the holding part 64 is fixed to the replacement frame 161 at the center of the frame 63, the replacement part 28 cannot move the screen mask M onto the substrate S. On the other hand, by fixing the screen mask M in an off-center position, the replacement part 28 can be fixed to a position where the screen mask M can be moved onto the substrate S.

[0050] Here, the correspondence between the constituent elements of this embodiment and the constituent elements of this disclosure is clarified. The replacement frame 61 of this embodiment corresponds to an example of the replacement frame of this disclosure, the frame 63 corresponds to an example of the frame, the fixing part 65 corresponds to an example of the fixing part, the substrate processing part 30 corresponds to an example of the substrate processing part, the printing part 23 corresponds to an example of the printing part, the replacement part 28 corresponds to an example of the replacement part, and the printing control part 21 corresponds to an example of the control part. Furthermore, the printing system 10a corresponds to an example of the printing system, the printing apparatus 11a corresponds to an example of the first printing apparatus, and the printing apparatus 11b corresponds to an example of the second printing apparatus.

[0051] The replacement frame 61 described above is used in a printing apparatus 11. The printing apparatus 11 positions the screen mask M relative to the substrate S at a printing position and performs a viscous fluid printing process. The replacement frame 61 includes: a frame 63 that supports the screen mask M; and a fixing part 65 that fixes the screen mask M at an off-center position biased against the outer periphery of the frame 63. Because the screen mask M is fixed at an off-center position biased against the outer periphery of the frame 63 in this replacement frame 61, there are blank areas where the screen mask M is not present. Therefore, the screen mask M can be more reliably positioned on the substrate S. Thus, in this replacement frame 61, the printing apparatus 11 can perform the printing process more reliably when replacing the screen mask M. Furthermore, when the screen mask M is fixed to the center of the frame 63, the fixing part 65 is located at a position where printing on the substrate S is not possible. On the other hand, when the screen mask M is fixed to an off-center position, the screen mask is fixed at the position where it is positioned on the substrate S. In this replacement frame 61, the printing process can be performed more reliably compared to the case where the screen mask M is fixed to the center. Moreover, the printing apparatus 11 includes a replacement part 28, which moves the replacement frame 61, on which the screen mask M is fixed, between a printing position located in the movable area A within the movement range and a passage 45 serving as a loading / unloading part. When the screen mask M is fixed to the center of the frame 63, the replacement part 28 cannot move the screen mask M on the substrate S. On the other hand, when the screen mask M is fixed to an off-center position, the fixing part 65 fixes the screen mask M to a position where the replacement part 28 can move the screen mask M onto the substrate S. In this replacement frame 61, the printing process can be performed more reliably compared to fixing the screen mask M in the center.

[0052] Additionally, the printing apparatus 11 includes: a substrate processing unit 30, which includes at least a first unit 31 serving as a first substrate processing unit and a second unit 32 serving as a second substrate processing unit. The first unit 31 is disposed on the inlet / outlet side of the screen mask M, i.e., the port 45 side, and transports and fixes the substrate S. The second unit 32 is disposed on a side further inward than the inlet / outlet side and transports and fixes the substrate S; a printing unit 23, which positions the screen mask M relative to the substrate S at a printing position and performs viscous fluid printing processing; a replacement unit 28, which moves a replacement frame 61, on which the screen mask M is fixed, between the printing position and the inlet / outlet side; and a printing control unit 21, which controls the replacement unit 28 to move the replacement frame 61 toward the second unit 32 serving as the second substrate processing unit. In this printing apparatus 11, even in the second unit 32 where the screen mask M cannot be positioned onto the substrate S when it is fixed in the center, the screen mask M can still be positioned onto the substrate S by using the replacement frame 61 fixed at an off-center position. Therefore, printing processing can be performed more reliably in this printing apparatus 11. Furthermore, the printing control unit 21 moves the replacement frame 61 toward the second unit 32 based on one or more of the information contained in the identification information of the replacement frame, the measurement information of the frame 63, and the printing task information 22a for performing the printing process. In this printing apparatus 11, the replacement frame can be determined using identification information, measurement information, printing task information, etc., and the replacement frame can be configured according to the determined information, thereby enabling printing processing to be performed more reliably. In addition, the printing control unit 21 identifies the replacement frame based on the stored information stored in the storage unit 22 when the replacement frame is brought in, and controls the replacement unit 28 to move the replacement frame out of the apparatus. In this printing apparatus 11, the information stored in the storage unit 22 can be used to determine the replacement frame, and the replacement frame can be moved out according to the determined information, thereby enabling printing processing to be performed more reliably.

[0053] Additionally, the printing system 10a includes multiple printing devices 11, including a first printing device 11a and a second printing device 11b. The first printing device 11a includes: a substrate processing unit 30, which includes a first unit 31 serving as the first substrate processing unit and a second unit 32 serving as the second substrate processing unit. The first unit 31 is disposed on the infeed / outfeed side of the screen mask M and transports and fixes the substrate S. The second unit 32 is disposed on the inner side of the infeed / outfeed side and transports and fixes the substrate S; and a printing unit 23, which positions the screen mask M relative to the substrate S at the printing position and performs viscous fluid printing processing. The second printing device 11b includes: a substrate... The processing unit 30 includes a first unit 31 and a second unit 32. The first unit 31 is disposed on the side of the screen mask M for loading and unloading and transports and fixes the substrate S. The second unit 32 is disposed on the side further inward than the loading and unloading side and also transports and fixes the substrate S. The printing unit 23 positions the screen mask M relative to the substrate S at a printing position and performs viscous fluid printing. In the first unit 31 of the first printing apparatus 11a, a replacement frame 161 is disposed as a central fixing frame. The replacement frame 161 includes a frame 63 supporting the screen mask M and a fixing part 65 fixing the screen mask M to the center of the frame 63. The replacement frame 61 is disposed in the second unit 32. In this printing system 10a, and in the second printing apparatus 11B, even in the second substrate processing unit where it is impossible to place the screen mask onto the substrate when the screen mask M is fixed in the center, the screen mask can be placed onto the substrate by using the replacement frame fixed at an eccentric position. In this printing system, the printing of the first substrate processing unit on the substrate transport path and the printing of the second substrate processing unit on the substrate transport path can be performed more reliably.

[0054] Furthermore, the replacement frame, printing apparatus, printing system, and control method of the printing apparatus disclosed herein are not limited to the above-described embodiments. As long as they fall within the technical scope of this disclosure, they can be implemented in various ways, which goes without saying.

[0055] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the replacement frame 61 is moved toward the second unit 32 side and fixed, but it is not particularly limited to this, and there is no obstacle even if the replacement frame 61 is used on the first unit 31 side.

[0056] In the above embodiment, the retaining part 64 is used to replace the frame 61, but it is not particularly limited to fixing the screen mask M to the eccentric position. The retaining part 64 may also be omitted.

[0057] In the above-described embodiments, when the printing control unit 21 configures the replacement frame 61 to the second unit 32, it uses the identification information 66 of the replacement frame, the printing task information 22a, etc., but is not particularly limited to this. In addition, it may also be based on the identification information of the screen mask M, the identification information of the frame 63, the measurement information of the frame 63, etc.

[0058] In the above-described embodiment, the printing control unit 21 performs the configuration of the screen mask M and the recycling of the replacement frame based on the printing task information 22a, the identification information 66, and the stored information stored in the storage unit 22, but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the printing control unit 21 may also perform each process based on the instructions of the management PC 19.

[0059] In the above embodiment, the printing apparatus 11 includes a replacement unit 40 and a receiving bracket 43, but it is not particularly limited thereto; the printing apparatus 11 may also lack the replacement unit 40 or the receiving bracket 43. In this case, the operator W only needs to insert the replacement frame 61 through the through-hole 45 into the mask working section 27 and remove the replacement frame 61 from the apparatus. Although this printing apparatus 11 is not fully automatic, it reduces the workload of the operator W compared to manually positioning the replacement frame 61 in the printing position of the mask working section 27.

[0060] In the above embodiments, this disclosure has been described in the form of a printing apparatus 11 or a replacement frame 61, but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, this disclosure may also be described as a printing system 10a, a control method for the printing apparatus, and its program.

[0061] This disclosure may also be structured as follows.

[0062] For example, the control method of the printing apparatus disclosed herein is a control method for a printing apparatus comprising: The substrate processing unit includes at least a first substrate processing unit and a second substrate processing unit. The first substrate processing unit is disposed on the screen mask loading / unloading side and transports and fixes the substrate. The second substrate processing unit is disposed on a side further inward than the loading / unloading side and transports and fixes the substrate. The printing unit positions the screen mask relative to the substrate at a printing position and performs viscous fluid printing. The replacement unit moves a replacement frame, on which the screen mask is fixed, between the printing position and the loading / unloading section. The control method for the above printing apparatus includes the following steps: The replacement unit is controlled to move the replacement frame of any one of technical solutions 1 to 3 toward the second substrate processing unit.

[0063] In the control method of this printing apparatus, as with the printing apparatus described above, even in the second substrate processing unit where it is impossible to place the screen mask onto the substrate when the screen mask is fixed in the center, the screen mask can be placed onto the substrate by using a replacement frame fixed at an eccentric position. Therefore, the printing process can be performed more reliably in the control method of this printing apparatus. Furthermore, the control method of this printing apparatus can include various methods of the replacement frame or printing apparatus described above, and can also add various steps performed by the printing apparatus described above.

[0064] This specification also discloses the technical ideas of changing "the replacement frame described in claim 1" to "the replacement frame described in claim 1 or 2" in claim 3 of the initial application, and changing "the printing apparatus described in claim 4" to "the printing apparatus described in claim 4 or 5" in claim 6 of the initial application.

[0065] Industrial applicability

[0066] This disclosure can be applied to the technical field related to apparatus for mounting components.

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0068] 10 Installation System, 10a Printing System, 11, 11a, 11b Printing Unit, 12 Printing Inspection Unit, 13 Storage Unit, 14 Automated Guided Vehicle, 15 Installation Unit, 16 Installation Inspection Unit, 17 X-axis Rail, 18 Loader, 19 Management PC, 20 Control Unit, 21 Printing Control Unit, 22 Storage Unit, 22a Printing Task Information, 22b Replacement Condition Information, 23 Printing Unit, 24 Print Head, 25 Printing Movement Unit, 26 Squeegee, 27 Mask Operation Unit, 28 Replacement Unit, 29 Mask Fixing Unit, 30 Substrate Processing Unit, 31 First Unit, 32 Second Unit, 33 Substrate Transport Unit, 34 Lifting Unit, 35 Substrate Transport Unit, 36 Lifting Unit, 37 Cleaning Unit, 38 Fluid Supply Unit, 39 Operation Panel, 40 Replacement Unit, 41 Support Movement Unit, 42 Frame Movement Unit, 43 44 Reception bracket, 45 Reception section, 47 Measurement section, 48 Imaging section, 49 Mask stop, 50 Support block, 60, 61, 62, 161 Replacement frame, 63 Frame, 64 Holding section, 65 Fixing section, 66 Identification information, 67 Support component, A Movable area, D Loading direction, M Screen mask, S Substrate, P Component, W Operator.

Claims

1. A replaceable frame for a printing apparatus that positions a screen mask relative to a substrate at a printing position and performs a printing process on a viscous fluid. The replacement frame has the following features: A frame supporting the screen mask; and The fixing part fixes the wire mesh mask to an off-center position on one side of the outer periphery of the frame.

2. The replacement frame according to claim 1, wherein, When the fixing part fixes the screen mask to the center of the frame, it is in a position where printing on the substrate is not possible; on the other hand, when the fixing part fixes the screen mask to the off-center position, it fixes the screen mask to the position where the screen mask is disposed on the substrate.

3. The replacement frame according to claim 1, wherein, The printing apparatus includes a changing unit that moves a changing frame, on which a screen mask is fixed, between the printing position, which is within a movement range, and a loading / unloading unit. When the fixing part fixes the screen mask to the center of the frame, the replacement part cannot move the screen mask onto the substrate; on the other hand, when the fixing part fixes the screen mask to the eccentric position, the fixing part fixes the screen mask to a position where the replacement part can move the screen mask onto the substrate.

4. A printing apparatus comprising: The substrate processing unit includes at least a first substrate processing unit and a second substrate processing unit. The first substrate processing unit is disposed on the infeed and outfeed side of the screen mask and performs substrate transport and fixation. The second substrate processing unit is disposed on the inner side of the infeed and outfeed side and performs substrate transport and fixation. The printing section positions a screen mask relative to the substrate at a printing position and performs a printing process for a viscous fluid. The replacement unit moves the replacement frame, on which the screen mask is fixed, between the printing position and the loading / unloading unit; and The control unit controls the replacement unit to move the replacement frame according to any one of claims 1 to 3 toward the second substrate processing unit.

5. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The control unit moves the replacement frame toward the second substrate processing unit based on one or more of the identification information of the replacement frame, the identification information of the screen mask, the measurement information of the frame, and the information containing the printing task information for performing the printing process.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, When the replacement frame is moved in, the control unit identifies the replacement frame based on the information stored in the storage unit, and controls the replacement unit to move the replacement frame out of the device.

7. A printing system comprising multiple printing units, The printing system includes a first printing device and a second printing device. The first printing apparatus includes: a substrate processing unit, which comprises a first substrate processing unit and a second substrate processing unit, wherein the first substrate processing unit is disposed on the side of the screen mask loading / unloading section and transports and fixes the substrate, and the second substrate processing unit is disposed on a side further inward than the loading / unloading section side and transports and fixes the substrate; and a printing unit, which positions the screen mask relative to the substrate at a printing position and performs printing processing on a viscous fluid. The second printing apparatus includes: a substrate processing unit, which comprises a first substrate processing unit and a second substrate processing unit, wherein the first substrate processing unit is disposed on the side of the screen mask loading / unloading section and transports and fixes the substrate, and the second substrate processing unit is disposed on a side further inward than the loading / unloading section side and transports and fixes the substrate; and a printing unit, which positions the screen mask relative to the substrate at a printing position and performs printing processing on a viscous fluid. A central fixing frame is disposed in the first substrate processing section of the first printing apparatus. The central fixing frame includes a frame that supports the screen mask and a fixing part that fixes the screen mask to the central position of the frame. The replacement frame according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is configured in the second substrate processing section of the second printing apparatus.

8. A method for controlling a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising: The substrate processing unit includes at least a first substrate processing unit and a second substrate processing unit. The first substrate processing unit is disposed on the side of the screen mask loading / unloading section and transports and fixes the substrate. The second substrate processing unit is disposed on a side further inward than the loading / unloading section side and transports and fixes the substrate. The printing unit positions the screen mask relative to the substrate at a printing position and performs printing processing on a viscous fluid. The unit also includes a replacement unit that moves a replacement frame, on which the screen mask is fixed, between the printing position and the loading / unloading section. The control method for the printing apparatus includes the following steps: The replacement unit is controlled to move the replacement frame according to any one of claims 1 to 3 toward the second substrate processing unit.

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