Mounting device, mounting system, method of determining the life of a connector

Abstract

Provided are a mounting device, a mounting device system, and a method of judging the life of a connector that can perform a judgment of the life based on the state of deterioration of the connector. The mounting device of the present disclosure includes a connection portion that can be connected to a connection target device via a connector, and a control device that performs a data transfer process, a re-data transfer process, and a life judgment process. The data transfer process is a process of transferring data between the control device and the connection target device connected to the connector via the connection portion. The re-data transfer process is a process of performing the transfer of data again via the connector in the case where the transfer of data in the data transfer process has failed. The life judgment process is a process of judging the life of the connector based on history information of the re-data transfer process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to techniques for determining the lifespan of connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Various techniques for determining the lifespan of connectors have been proposed in the past. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for determining the lifespan of a computer cable connector. The lifespan warning display system in Patent Document 1 increments a counter value whenever connector insertion or removal is detected. When the counter value reaches the upper limit of usage, the warning display system flashes a warning light.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-162570 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] In the lifespan warning display system of Patent Document 1 mentioned above, a warning light is emitted for all connectors when the number of mating / removal cycles reaches the upper limit of usage. However, depending on the precision of the connector manufacturing process, even connectors of the same type may not reach their lifespan at the same time point when the number of mating / removal cycles reaches the upper limit of usage. Therefore, there is room for improvement in conventional techniques for judging connector lifespan.

[0007] This disclosure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide an installation device, an installation system, and a method for determining the lifespan of a connector based on the state of connector degradation.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] To address the aforementioned issues, this specification discloses an installation apparatus comprising: a connecting portion capable of connecting to a connected device via a connector; and a control device performing data transmission processing, re-data transmission processing, and lifespan determination processing. The data transmission processing is the process of transmitting data between the control device and the connected device connected to the connector via the connecting portion. The re-data transmission processing is the process of re-performing data transmission via the connector when data transmission fails during the data transmission processing. The lifespan determination processing is the process of determining the lifespan of the connector based on historical information from the re-data transmission processing.

[0010] Furthermore, the contents of this disclosure are not limited to implementation as an installation device, but are also extremely useful as a method for determining the lifespan of an installation system and connectors.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the installation apparatus, installation system, and method for determining connector lifespan disclosed herein, in the event of a data transmission failure based on data transmission processing, a re-data transmission process is performed to re-attempt data transmission via the connector. Furthermore, the installation apparatus, etc., determines the connector lifespan based on historical information regarding the execution of this re-data transmission process. The frequency, number of re-data transmission processes, and the number of data transmission failures vary depending on the degree of degradation of each connector. Therefore, by determining the connector lifespan based on historical information regarding the re-data transmission process, it is possible to determine the lifespan based on the degradation state of each connector. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the production system 10 in this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the unmanned transport vehicle 5 is moved to a position where the feeder box 21 can be transferred between the feeder storage section 12 and the loading section 36, viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the state from above where the unmanned transport vehicle 5 is moved to a position where the feeder box 21 can be transferred between the feeder storage section 12 and the loading section 36.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the installation device 13.

[0017] Figure 5 This is the flowchart for the first lifetime determination process.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a graph representing historical information DT1.

[0019] Figure 7 This is the flowchart for the second lifetime determination process. Detailed Implementation

[0020] (Regarding production system 10)

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the installation system of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This describes the structure of the production system 10 in this embodiment. For example... Figure 1As shown, the production system 10 includes, for example, multiple production lines 2, a control unit 4, an automated guided vehicle (AGV) 5, a display terminal 6, and a storage unit 7. The production lines 2, for example, include a printer 11, a feeder storage unit 12, multiple mounting devices 13, a reflow oven 14, and a substrate visual inspection machine 15, from upstream to downstream of the production line 2. The production system 10 is a system that transports substrates 19 from upstream to downstream of the production line 2 and mounts components (electronic components, etc.) on the substrates 19. A line management device 18 is provided in the feeder storage unit 12.

[0022] Additionally, in the following explanation, such as Figure 1 As shown, the explanation is based on the viewpoint of a user facing each device on production line 2. The direction from the upstream side to the downstream side of production line 2 is called the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The direction perpendicular to the left-right direction and parallel to the plane of the transported substrate 19 is called the front-back direction (Y-axis direction). The direction perpendicular to both the left-right and front-back directions is called the up-down direction (Z-axis direction).

[0023] The printing machine 11 is a screen printing machine that prints a viscous fluid (e.g., solder paste) onto a substrate 19. The mounting device 13 mounts components onto the substrate 19 printed with solder paste. Multiple (two in this embodiment) feeder cassettes 21 can be configured in the feeder storage section 12. Feeders 22 for supplying feed components can be housed in the feeder cassettes 21. The feed components are, for example, electronic components mounted onto the substrate 19. Furthermore, the feed components are not limited to electronic components; for example, other components used in the mounting device 13 can also be used. Specifically, as a feed component of this disclosure, it can also be a feeder to the mounting head 47 of the mounting device 13 (see reference 13). Figure 4 The feeder of the present invention is not limited to a component feeder, but can also be a nozzle feeder.

[0024] Production line 2 is equipped with a line changing device 23. The line changing device 23 performs the replacement between the feeder 22 housed in the feeder box 21 of the feeder storage section 12 and the feeder 22 mounted on the mounting device 13. The reflow oven 14 is a device that heats the substrate 19 on which components are mounted, melting and solidifying the solder paste. Components are thus mounted on the substrate 19. The substrate appearance inspection machine 15 is a device that inspects the mounting status of the substrate 19 on which components are mounted.

[0025] The line management device 18 and the control device 4 are connected to each device of the production line 2 via a network 17 (e.g., LAN) in a communicative manner. The line management device 18, for example, is a PC (personal computer) that manages the production line 2, monitoring the operation and progress of each device. Each device of the production line 2 exchanges information with the line management device 18, obtaining information such as the progress of other devices. The control device 4, for example, is a PC that communicates with each device of the production system 10. The control device 4 includes a storage device 4A. The storage device 4A, for example, is RAM, ROM, HDD, etc., storing the control program 28 and historical information DT1 (described later). The control device 4 manages the production system 10 in a comprehensive manner by executing the control program 28 through the CPU. For example, the control device 4 determines the production sequence, the destination of the automated guided vehicle 5, etc. The historical information DT1 is used to determine the connector 21B (see reference) of the feeder box 21 used in the production system 10. Figure 3 (Data on the lifespan of )

[0026] The automated guided vehicle 5 moves within the production facility equipped with the production system 10, performing the delivery of parts required for production line 2 and the recycling of used parts. In this embodiment, the automated guided vehicle 5 transports a feeder box 21 containing a feeder 22. Furthermore, the parts transported by the automated guided vehicle 5 are not limited to the feeder 22. For example, the automated guided vehicle 5 can also transport a scraper used in the printing press 11. The control device 4 performs wireless communication with the automated guided vehicle 5, for example, managing the parts being transported by the automated guided vehicle 5, the current position of the automated guided vehicle 5, etc.

[0027] In the production facility equipped with production system 10, a preparation room 9 is provided to store the components required for production line 2. An automated guided vehicle (AGV) 5 travels between the preparation room 9 and production line 2, within the production facility, automatically transporting feeders 22. The AAV 5 is an example of a transport robot of this disclosure. Furthermore, the transport robot of this disclosure is not limited to wheeled vehicles, but may also be a flying device such as a drone. Additionally, the destination of the AAV 5 is not limited to production line 2 and preparation room 9. For example, shelves for configuring feeder boxes 21 and feeders 22 may be provided in the passageway of production line 2. Furthermore, these shelves may be connected to network 17 for monitoring the lifespan of connector 21B, described later.

[0028] Display terminal 6, such as a PC, is installed in preparation room 9. Display terminal 6 is connected to network 17 and displays information obtained from line management device 18 and control device 4, etc. Users in preparation room 9 operate display terminal 6 to manage the retrieval and distribution of feeders 22 by automated guided vehicles 5. Additionally, users in preparation room 9 may use barcode reader 6A installed on display terminal 6 to register feeders 22, etc.

[0029] Storage device 7 is located in preparation room 9 and can communicate with control device 4 and the like via network 17. Storage device 7 is a device that houses feeder 22. In addition, storage device 7 is equipped with feeder changing device 25. The automated guided vehicle 5 performs the transfer of feeder box 21 between itself and the upstream device of storage device 7, similar to the transfer with feeder storage unit 12. The feeder changing device 25 performs the replacement of feeder 22 between feeder box 21 located upstream of storage device 7 and storage unit downstream, similar to line changing device 23.

[0030] in addition, Figure 1 The structure of the production system 10 shown is one example. For example, the automated guided vehicle 5 can also perform the replacement of the feeder box 21 and the feeder 22 between itself and the mounting device 13. For example, the mounting device 13 can also be a structure capable of mounting the feeder box 21. Furthermore, the automated guided vehicle 5 can also perform the replacement of the feeder box 21 of the mounting device 13. In this case, the production line 2 may not have the line replacement device 23 or the feeder storage unit 12. In addition, the production system 10 may have multiple automated guided vehicles 5, or it may have only one production line 2. Alternatively, the production system 10 may also have a structure without automated guided vehicles 5.

[0031] (Regarding the feeder storage department 12)

[0032] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This indicates the status of the transfer of the feeder box 21 between the feeder storage unit 12 and the automated guided vehicle 5. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the feeder storage section 12 is provided with a tray platform 31 capable of holding multiple feeder boxes 21. In this embodiment, the tray platform 31 can hold two feeder boxes 21 along the left-right direction. The tray platform 31 is provided with multiple rollers 33 for moving the feeder boxes 21. The multiple rollers 33 can rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the left-right direction.

[0033] The control device 12A of the feeder storage unit 12 controls the drive source (motor, etc.) provided in the feeder storage unit 12 to rotate multiple rollers 33, performing the handover of the feeder box 21 between the feeder storage unit 12 and the automated guided vehicle 5. The control device 12A includes a CPU and a storage device 12B, and comprehensively controls the feeder storage unit 12 by executing a control program stored in the storage device 12B. The storage device 12B includes, for example, RAM, ROM, HDD, etc. The control program includes execution of the following... Figure 5 , Figure 7 The procedures for the first and second lifetime determination processes are shown.

[0034] The automated guided vehicle 5 is driven by multiple tires 34 located at its lower part to move on the floor where the production system 10 is located, performing the replacement of feeder boxes 21. The automated guided vehicle 5 includes a main body 35 and a mounting section 36. The main body 35 is equipped with an electric motor for driving the tires 34 and a battery. Regarding the automated guided vehicle 5, multiple feeders 22 are placed into the feeder box 21, and the feeder box 21 is placed on the mounting section 36 for transport. The mounting section 36 is fixed to the upper part of the main body 35 and, like the box platform 31, is provided with multiple rollers 37 for moving the feeders 22. The automated guided vehicle 5 rotates the multiple rollers 37, performing the transfer of feeder boxes 21 between them and the feeder storage section 12. When the automated guided vehicle 5 is positioned... Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the position change state shown, when rollers 33 and 37 are rotated, the feeder box 21 moves in the forward and backward direction to perform the change.

[0035] The feeder box 21 is, for example, cube-shaped, with one of its six faces ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The front surface of the feeder 22 has an opening 21A. The feeder 22 is a quadrilateral plate shape (box type) with a predetermined thickness (see reference). Figure 4 The feeder housing 21 contains a reel, sprocket, stepper motor, etc. A component tape, obtained by braiding components, is wound on the reel. The feeder housing 21 has multiple slots (grooves) that allow the feeders 22 to slide. The feeder housing 21 accepts multiple feeders 22 by inserting them into the slots through the opening 21A.

[0036] The feeder 22 is provided with a feeder-side connector 22A. Additionally, the feeder housing 21 is provided with multiple connectors 21B. These multiple connectors 21B are connectors that connect to the feeder-side connector 22A. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The feeder housing 21 has a rear side wall 21D. A connector 21B is mounted to the inner wall of the side wall 21D for each slot. The connector 21B has a number of feeders 22 that can be accommodated in the feeder housing 21. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the example shown, the feeder box 21 has five connectors 21B, and feeders 22 are connected to the five connectors 21B respectively.

[0037] Additionally, a locking mechanism 22B is provided in the feeder 22. The locking mechanism 22B, for example, has a movable locking pin. Furthermore, an insertion hole for inserting the locking pin is formed on the upper inner wall of the feeder housing 21 on the opening 21A side. The locking mechanism 22B is driven by either the wire changing device 23 or the feeder changing device 25. For example, after the wire changing device 23 inserts the feeder 22 into a predetermined slot in the feeder housing 21, it drives the locking mechanism 22B to engage the locking pin with the insertion hole, thus fixing the feeder 22 relative to the feeder housing 21. Alternatively, when the feeder 22 is removed, the wire changing device 23 drives the locking mechanism 22B to pull the locking pin out of the insertion hole, thereby releasing the lock and removing the feeder 22 from the feeder housing 21.

[0038] The feeder 22 is fixed relative to the feeder box 21 by the locking mechanism 22B. With the feeder-side connector 22A connected to the connector 21B, it is transported together with the feeder box 21 by the automated guided vehicle 5. Therefore, when the feeder box 21 is transferred between the automated guided vehicle 5 and the feeder storage unit 12, all the feeders 22 housed in the feeder box 21 are fixed relative to the feeder box 21 by the locking mechanism 22B, and the feeder-side connector 22A is connected to the connector 21B.

[0039] A cassette-side connector 21E is provided on the outer side of the sidewall 21D, i.e., the back side of the side where connector 21B is located. Additionally, a storage section-side connector 12D is provided in the feeder storage section 12. The storage section-side connector 12D is detachable from the cassette-side connector 21E. When the feeder cassette 21 is positioned on the cassette platform 31, the storage section-side connector 12D is positioned to connect with the cassette-side connector 21E. Two storage section-side connectors 12D are provided at each location where the feeder cassette 21 is positioned.

[0040] When the feeder box 21 is positioned on the box stand 31, the feeder 22 is electrically connected to the feeder storage section 12 via feeder-side connectors 22A, connector 21B, box-side connector 21E, and storage section-side connector 12D (hereinafter sometimes referred to as each connector). Each connector is provided with terminals corresponding to communication lines, power lines, grounding lines, etc. The control device 12A performs communication between itself and the feeder box 21 or the feeder 22 via each connector. The feeder 22 is in a state where it can communicate with the control device 4 or the line management device 18, etc., via each connector.

[0041] A memory 21F is provided in connector 21B. In addition to the connector ID used to identify connector 21B, memory 21F also stores historical information DT1 (refer to...) required to determine the lifespan of connector 21B. Figure 6Details regarding the information stored in memory 21F will be described later. Control device 12A performs data reading from and writing to memory 21F via each connector. Furthermore, control device 12A can control the start and stop of power supply to feeder 22 via each connector. Additionally, the automated guided vehicle 5 may transfer feeders 22 individually without transferring the entire feeder box 21 to feeder storage unit 12. For example, the automated guided vehicle 5 may also have a chuck mechanism for sequentially removing feeders 22 from feeder box 21 on the mounting unit 36. In this case, feeder storage unit 12 may also have connector 21B as the connector of this disclosure.

[0042] Furthermore, although detailed descriptions are omitted, the storage device 7 in the preparation chamber 9 has the same device as the feeder storage section 12 on the upstream side, and includes a roller 33 and a storage section-side connector 12D, etc. The control device of the storage device 7 communicates with the feeder 22 housed in the feeder box 21, just like the feeder storage section 12.

[0043] (Regarding the installation device 13)

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the mounting device 13 includes two substrate conveying devices 41, a head moving mechanism 43, and a tray 44. The two substrate conveying devices 41 are arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction. The substrate conveying devices 41 include belt conveyors for conveying substrates 19 and convey substrates 19 in the left-to-right direction. The head moving mechanism 43 is an XY robot located on the upper part of the mounting device 13. The head moving mechanism 43 moves the slider 45 to any position in the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction) and the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction). A mounting head 47 is detachably mounted on the slider 45. A suction nozzle for adsorbing components supplied from the feeder 22 is mounted on the mounting head 47.

[0045] A tray 44 is located at the front end of the mounting device 13. A slot (groove) for guiding the feeder 22 in a forward-backward direction is provided at the bottom of the tray 44. Additionally, a tray connecting portion 48 is provided on the rear side of the tray 44. The tray connecting portion 48 has a forward-facing wall on which a plurality of mounting device-side connectors 49 are provided. The plurality of mounting device-side connectors 49 are provided with a number of slots, i.e., a number of feeders 22 that can be mounted on the tray 44, and a feeder-side connector 22A (see reference) for each feeder 22 mounted in a slot. Figure 2 )connect.

[0046] The control device 13A of the mounting device 13, like the control device 12A of the feeder storage unit 12, includes a CPU and a storage device 13B. The CPU executes the control program stored in the storage device 13B to control the mounting device 13. The control device 13A communicates with the feeder 22 connected to the tray 44 via the feeder-side connector 22A and the mounting device-side connector 49. Like the control device 12A, the control device 13A is capable of executing the memory 21F (see reference 12A). Figure 2 The control device 13A reads out components, etc. Additionally, the control device 13A drives a stepper motor located within the feeder 22 via a feeder-side connector 22A and a mounting device-side connector 49, supplying components from the feeder 22. The control device 13A uses a mounting head 47 to pick up the components supplied from the feeder 22 and mounts them onto the substrate 19 conveyed by the substrate conveying device 41.

[0047] Additionally, the mounting device 13 has a feeder storage unit 51 below the tray 44. The feeder storage unit 51 is a temporary storage container for the feeders 22. Similar to the tray 44, a mounting device-side connector 52 is provided in each slot of the feeder storage unit 51. The mounting device 13 communicates with the feeders 22 stored in each slot of the feeder storage unit 51 via the mounting device-side connector 52 and the feeder-side connector 22A. Furthermore, both the tray 44 and the feeder storage unit 51 have insertion holes for engaging the locking mechanism 22B of the feeder 22, similar to the feeder box 21.

[0048] Travel tracks are provided on the front surface of the mounting device 13 and the front surface of the feeder storage section 12. The wire changing device 23 moves along these travel tracks in the left-right direction, i.e., the direction in which the devices of the production line 2 are arranged. The wire changing device 23 can move in front of the feeder storage section 12 and any mounting device 13. The wire changing device 23 has a chuck mechanism for clamping the feeder 22. The wire changing device 23 executes the locking mechanism 22B of the feeder 22 (see reference) through the chuck mechanism. Figure 2 The release of the feeder 22 and the locking based on the locking mechanism 22B are also described. Furthermore, the line changing device 23 performs the replacement of the feeder 22 between the feeder storage section 12, the tray 44, and the feeder storage unit 51 via a chuck mechanism. Additionally, the line changing device 23 is equipped with a mechanism that moves the feeder 22 up and down within the device, enabling the replacement of the feeder 22 between the tray 44 and the feeder storage unit 51.

[0049] in addition, Figure 4The structure of the mounting device 13 and the line changing device 23 shown is one example. For example, the mounting device 13 may also be a structure that only has one substrate conveying device 41. In addition, the mounting device 13 may also be a structure that can mount two mounting heads 47. Furthermore, the mounting device 13 may not have a feeder storage device 51. Therefore, the line changing device 23 may not have a mechanism for moving the feeder 22 in the up and down direction.

[0050] (Regarding connector lifespan assessment)

[0051] Here, the connectors used in the production system 10 deteriorate due to repeated insertion and removal. Communication errors occur due to connector deterioration, and further deterioration can lead to a state where communication is impossible. The connectors reach a state where replacement is required, i.e., they have reached the end of their service life. In this embodiment, the production system 10 uses the connector 21B of the feeder box 21 as the connector whose service life is being determined, and determines whether the connector 21B has reached its service life (whether it needs to be replaced).

[0052] Furthermore, the production system 10, as the main body for determining the lifespan of connector 21B, can switch between a first main body mode where the determination is made by the control device 12A (feeder storage unit 12) or the storage device 7, and a second main body mode where the determination is made by the control device 4. Additionally, as a method for determining the lifespan of connector 21B, it can switch between a first lifespan determination mode that performs a first lifespan determination process and a second lifespan determination mode that performs a second lifespan determination process.

[0053] (First subject mode and first lifespan determination mode)

[0054] In the following explanation, we will first explain the case where the first subject mode and the first lifespan determination mode are set. Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the first lifespan determination process. In the first main mode, the feeder storage unit 12 or the storage device 7 determines the lifespan. That is, the device that performs the insertion and removal of the feeder 22 relative to the connector 21B via the feeder box 21 becomes the main body for the determination. Thus, the lifespan of the connector 21B can be monitored by each device that performs the insertion and removal relative to the connector 21B. In the following description, the case where the control device 12A of the feeder storage unit 12 performs the first lifespan determination process will be described. However, the same process can also be performed in the storage device 7.

[0055] For example, when the user operates the control device 4 to set the first main mode and the first lifespan determination mode, the control device 12A executes the control program of the storage device 12B and begins... Figure 5 The processing is shown. Alternatively, changes to each mode can also be handled by devices other than the control unit 4, such as the feeder storage unit 12. Also, start Figure 5The processing conditions are not limited to the conditions of the set mode, but can also be the conditions of starting the replacement or handling of the feeder 22.

[0056] Control device 12A when start Figure 5 During processing, firstly, in step (hereinafter referred to as unit S) 11, it is determined whether a feeder 22 is installed. The control device 12A executes commands on each connector 21B of the feeder box 21 connected to the storage-side connector 12D of the box platform 31. Figure 5 Therefore, during the period until at least one of the following conditions is met—that the new feeder box 21 is connected to the storage section connector 12D and that the new feeder box 21 is installed in the already connected feeder box 21—the control device 12A performs a negative judgment (S11: No) in S11 and repeatedly executes the judgment process of S11.

[0057] For example, if a new feeder 22 is installed in the empty slot of the feeder box 21 connector 21B that is already connected (S11: Yes), the control device 12A performs the processing after S13 with the installed connector 21B (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the target connector 21B) as the target. As a method to detect the installation of a new feeder 22 on the connector 21B of the already connected feeder box 21, a notification from the wire changing device 23 can be used. The wire changing device 23 notifies the control device 12A of the installation completion when the feeder 22 is installed into the feeder box 21 and the locking based on the locking mechanism 22B is completed. The control device 12A can also detect the installation of a new feeder 22 based on receiving this notification. Alternatively, a sensor for detecting whether the feeder 22 is installed in the slot can be provided in the feeder box 21. Furthermore, if the user installs the feeder 22 manually, the wire management device 18 or the like can be operated to input that it is installed.

[0058] Additionally, for example, if a new feeder box 21 is connected to the storage unit connector 12D by an automated guided vehicle 5 while the feeder box 21 is being transported, the control device 12A can also determine that all feeders 22 in the newly connected feeder box 21 are newly installed (S11: Yes). In this case, the control device 12A sequentially sets all feeders 22 in the feeder box 21 as the target connector 21B and executes... Figure 5 The processing.

[0059] In S13, the control device 12A increases the number of insertions and removals of the connector 21B by 1. Figure 6This refers to the historical information DT1 stored in the memory 21F of connector 21B. The historical information DT1 stores the connector ID, mating / removal count CNT1, and total mating / removal count CNT2 of the target connector 21B. The connector ID is identification information that can identify the connector 21B used in the production system 10, such as a unique number or letter. The mating / removal count CNT1 is the number of mating / removal operations relative to the connector 21B mating / removal feeder 22 during the period from the last execution of the re-acquisition process in S19 (described later) to the re-acquisition process of the same connector 21B being executed again in S19. The total mating / removal count CNT2 is the total (cumulative) number of mating / removal operations for the target connector 21B mating / removal feeder 22. In S13, the control device 12A increments both the mating / removal count CNT1 and the total mating / removal count CNT2 by 1.

[0060] Next, the control device 12A obtains feeder information from the feeder 22 connected to the connector 21B (S14). The feeder information indicates what kind of feeder the feeder 22 is. This feeder information may include, for example, the feeder ID identifying the feeder 22, information about the type of component supplied by the feeder 22, and the model number of the feeder 22. This information is associated with and managed by a barcode affixed to the feeder 22 in the display terminal 6. The feeder 22 is equipped with a memory for storing the feeder information. The control device 12A supplies power to the feeder 22 connected to the connector 21B and reads the feeder information from the feeder 22 via the connector 21B.

[0061] When executing S14, control device 12A determines whether the feeder information was successfully acquired (S15). If control device 12A successfully acquired the feeder information in S14 (S15: Yes), it associates the acquired feeder information with the slot (connector 21B) where the feeder 22 is installed (S17). For example, control device 12A associates the feeder information with the slot's identification number. Control device 12A ends. Figure 5 The process is shown. For example, the line management device 18 performs the replacement and handling of the feeder 22 based on the associated information established in S17. The line management device 18 manages which feeder 22 is connected to which slot (connector 21B, etc.) based on the associated feeder information, and performs the replacement and handling of the feeder 22 through the line replacement device 23.

[0062] On the other hand, if the acquisition of feeder information fails in S14 (S15: No), the control device 12A executes S19. For example, if the connector 21B deteriorates due to repeated insertion and removal, the acquisition of feeder information may fail. In S19, the control device 12A performs a process to reacquire feeder information via the connector 21B. When the feeder 22 is installed into the feeder housing 21 via the wire changing device 23 before S14 is executed, the locking mechanism 22B is driven, and its position relative to the connector 21B is fixed. With the locking mechanism 22B driven and the feeder 22 fixed relative to the connector 21B, the control device 12A executes the acquisition process of S14. Furthermore, in the reacquisition process of S19, while maintaining the fixed state based on the locking mechanism 22B, the control device 12A cuts off the power supply from the connector 21B to the feeder 22, restarts the power supply, and then performs the acquisition of feeder information via the connector 21B.

[0063] Therefore, in the re-acquisition process of S19, while the feeder 22 is fixed relative to the connector 21B, the power supply to the feeder 22 is temporarily cut off and then reconnected. Thus, if the feeder 22 malfunctions, the error can be eliminated by reconnecting the power supply, potentially enabling data transmission. Alternatively, in S19, the power supply may not be temporarily cut off. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 22B may be temporarily released and then relocked before executing S19. Alternatively, the feeder 22 may be temporarily removed and then reinserted using the wire changing device 23.

[0064] When executing S19, control device 12A determines whether the feeder information was successfully obtained through the re-acquisition process in S19 (S21). If the acquisition of feeder information fails, that is, if the acquisition of feeder information fails twice consecutively (S21: No), control device 12A notifies line management device 18 of an error (S23) and terminates the process. Figure 5 The process is as shown. The line management device 18 displays errors on the screen and temporarily stops production on the production line 2 it manages. For example, the line management device 18 displays the connector ID of connector 21B, indicating a failure to obtain feeder information. When the user performs actions such as replacing connector 21B or feeder box 21, the error response is completed via the line management device 18. When the line management device 18 receives input from the user, it restarts production.

[0065] Therefore, control device 12A executes the re-acquisition process of S19. If the acquisition of feeder information fails, an error is notified and production is temporarily stopped, thereby restricting data transmission via connector 21B. Thus, even if the re-acquisition process fails, an error is notified and data transmission is restricted. If S19 fails only once, it is determined that connector 21B has malfunctioned, and the user can be asked to replace connector 21B, etc. Alternatively, control device 12A can execute the re-acquisition process of feeder information multiple times, and if it fails multiple times, S23 is executed. Furthermore, line management device 18 can also stop production, but only stop replacing the feeder 22 at the malfunctioning connector 21B.

[0066] On the other hand, if the control device 12A successfully obtains the feeder information through the re-acquisition process (S21: Yes), it determines whether a replacement notification has been executed (S25). The control device 12A determines whether a replacement notification has been executed regarding the connector 21B to be replaced, as described later in S31. As a method for determining whether a replacement notification has been executed, for example, the following method can be used: store the flag value of each connector 21B (connector ID) in the storage device 12B, and change the flag value according to the execution of S31. In this case, in S25, it is possible to determine whether a replacement notification has been executed based on the flag value of the connector 21B to be replaced. In addition, the information of this flag value can also be shared by the feeder storage unit 12 and the storage device 7. By sharing information, the feeder storage unit 12 and the storage device 7, i.e., the entire production system 10, can perform a replacement notification only once. In addition, if the flag values ​​are managed separately, the feeder storage unit 12 and the storage device 7 will perform replacement notifications at different times.

[0067] If the flag value of the target connector 21B indicates that a replacement has not been performed (S25: No), the control device 12A determines whether the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 of the target connector 21B is less than or equal to the replacement warning cycle TH1 (S27). If the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 is more than or equal to the replacement warning cycle TH1 (S27: No), the control device 12A resets the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 in the historical information DT1 to zero (S29) and executes S17. Thus, the measurement of the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 restarts from zero. Alternatively, if the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement warning cycle TH1 (S27: Yes), the control device 12A executes a replacement warning (S31). When executing S31, the control device 12A resets the number of mating / removal cycles CNT1 in S29. Furthermore, the control device 12A changes the flag value of the target connector 21B to a value indicating that a replacement warning has been executed.

[0068] The replacement warning number TH1 is a number greater than the replacement instruction number TH2 described later, for example, 1000 times. In this case, if the number of insertions / removals CNT1 during the period from the last execution of the re-acquisition process to the re-execution is greater than 1000 times, the replacement warning in S31 is not executed. Furthermore, when the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is less than 1000 times (S27: Yes), the replacement warning is executed (S31). In S31, the control device 12A, for example, notifies the connector ID of the target connector 21B, i.e., the connector ID of connector 21B whose insertion / removal number CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement warning number TH1. The device that makes the notification can be the line management device 18 or the control device 4. For example, based on the information received from the control device 12A, the control device 4 displays the identification information of the production line 2, device information, connector ID, etc., and displays a message indicating that a replacement operation for connector 21B with that connector ID will occur soon. This allows users to take appropriate pre-emptive measures, such as preparing the connector ID for replacement.

[0069] Furthermore, in S25, if the flag value of the target connector 21B is a value indicating that a replacement warning has been issued, that is, if a replacement warning has been issued for the target connector 21B in S31 (S25: Yes), the control device 12A determines whether the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2 (S33). If the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is more than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2 (S33: No), the control device 12A executes S29. Therefore, once a replacement warning is issued, the control device 12A resets the number of insertions / removals CNT1 every time a re-acquisition process is performed until the number of insertions / removals CNT1 becomes less than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2, and continues to determine the lifespan. Installation work continues, etc.

[0070] Furthermore, when the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2 (S33: Yes), the control device 12A executes a replacement instruction (S35). The replacement indication number TH2 is the number of times the connector 21B needs to be replaced, for example, 500 times. During the repeated insertions and removals of the feeder 22, the connector 21B deteriorates rapidly. With the deterioration of the connector 21B, the acquisition of feeder information fails, and the number of times the reacquisition process is performed increases. Therefore, it is expected that the more the connector 21B deteriorates, the more frequently the reacquisition process will be performed. Therefore, the control device 12A executes a replacement warning when the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement warning number TH1, and instructs replacement when the number of insertions / removals CNT1 is less than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2, which is less than the replacement warning number TH1. Thus, it is possible to determine that the connector 21B has reached the end of its lifespan based on the number of insertions / removals CNT1 being less than or equal to the replacement indication number TH2 during the period from the execution of S19 to the re-execution of S19.

[0071] In step S35, control device 12A notifies the management device 4 of the connector ID of the target connector 21B, for example. Based on the information received from control device 12A, management device 4 displays the connector ID, etc., and displays a message requesting replacement of connector 21B with that connector ID. Additionally, line management device 18, based on the information received from control device 12A, stops production on production line 2, which it manages. When the user inputs information indicating that a response has been performed, line management device 18 restarts production on production line 2. In response, the user can perform actions such as replacing connector 21B, changing the feeder 22 to a replacement slot, etc.

[0072] When control device 12A executes S35, it terminates. Figure 5 The process is as shown. In this case, feeder information cannot be obtained, so S17 is not executed. For example, when production line 2 resumes, control device 12A restarts the process from S11 to determine the lifespan of the replaced connector 21B and other connectors 21B. In addition, the above description describes the case where the feeder storage unit 12 performs the first lifespan determination process, but the storage device 7 performs it in the same way. That is, the storage device 7 can also make a positive determination in S11 and execute the process after S13 when a new feeder box 21 is connected to the device or a new feeder 22 is connected to an already connected feeder box 21.

[0073] Therefore, as described above, in S33, the control device 12A determines the lifespan of connector 21B based on historical information DT1, by determining the number of mating / unmating operations (CNT1) relative to the connector 21B feeder 22 from the last execution of S19 until the next execution of S19. Thus, the lifespan of connector 21B can be determined based on the number of mating / unmating operations performed during two consecutive executions of S19, i.e., the number of successful feeder information in S14. As connector 21B deteriorates, the number of mating / unmating operations (CNT1) decreases, therefore, the lifespan of connector 21B can be appropriately determined based on the number of mating / unmating operations (CNT1).

[0074] Furthermore, in S14, the control device 12A obtains feeder information from the feeder 22 via the newly connected connector 21B among the multiple connectors 21B of the feeder box 21 connected to the storage unit side connector 12D. If the control device 12A cannot obtain the feeder information (S15: No), in S19, it performs a process to re-obtain the feeder information via the newly connected connector 21B. And in S33, the control device 12A determines the lifespan of the newly connected connector 21B based on the historical information DT1 of the re-obtaining process.

[0075] Therefore, the connector 21B is replaced with the feeder 22 depending on changes in the type of component, etc. The number of mating / removal cycles (CNT1) can sometimes be several thousand or tens of thousands of times, and the timing of mating / removal varies for each connector 21B. Even for connectors 21B of the same type, the degree and rate of degradation can differ. Therefore, it is extremely effective to determine the lifespan of each connector 21B in the feeder box 21 based on the aforementioned historical information DT1 of the reprocessing.

[0076] (Second subject mode and first lifespan judgment mode)

[0077] With the second main mode set, the control device 4 executes. Figure 5 The first lifespan assessment process. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the control program 28 is stored in the storage device 4A of the control device 4. For example, when the control device 4 receives an operation to set a first main body mode and a first lifespan determination mode, it executes the control program 28 and begins... Figure 5 The processing is shown.

[0078] Furthermore, historical information DT1 can be stored in the storage device 4A of the management device 4. For example, when the management device 4 receives a notification from the control device 12A of each production line 2 or the storage device 7 of the preparation room 9 indicating that a new feeder 22 has been connected (S11: Yes), the management device 4 obtains the historical information DT1 of the connector 21B to which the new connection occurred (control device 12A, storage device 7) and stores it in the storage device 4A. Based on the historical information DT1 in the storage device 4A, the management device 4, in the same manner as the control device 12A, performs a first lifespan determination process on each connector 21B of the production system 10 and executes a replacement warning or replacement instruction. In this case, the management device 4 can manage all the connectors 21B of the production system 10 in a comprehensive manner. In addition, the historical information DT1 of each connector 21B can be retained as a log in the management device 4. In addition, the management device 4 can also display the location of the connector 21B that has been warned or instructed to replace by using the production line 2 number or a map.

[0079] Therefore, in the second main mode, the management device 4 determines the lifespan of the connector 21B to be replaced based on the historical information DT1 of the re-acquisition process performed in S19 in the feeder storage unit 12. Thus, in the management device 4, the lifespan of the connectors 21B in the feeder box 21 of the entire production system 10 that need to be replaced can be managed together.

[0080] (First subject mode and second lifespan determination mode)

[0081] Next, the case where the first main body mode and the second lifespan determination mode are set will be explained. Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the second lifetime determination process. In the first lifetime determination process, the number of insertions / removals (CNT1) is used to determine lifetime; conversely, in the second lifetime determination process, the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) is used to determine lifetime. Therefore, in the following description, content identical to the first lifetime determination mode described above will be appropriately omitted. Additionally, as... Figure 7 As shown, for and Figure 5 The same processing methods are labeled with the same reference numerals in the accompanying drawings, and their descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0082] Control device 12A starts Figure 7In the processing, when a new feeder 22 is installed (S11: Yes), the number of insertions / removals CNT1 and the total number of insertions / removals CNT2 are added together (S13) to obtain feeder information (S14). If the feeder information can be obtained (S15: Yes), the control device 12A establishes an association between the obtained feeder information and the slot (S17) and executes S41. By executing S17, the newly installed feeder 22 is managed in an association with the slot. In addition, if the acquisition of feeder information fails (S15: No), the control device 12A executes a re-acquisition process (S19), and executes S17 and S23 according to the success or failure of the re-acquisition process. Therefore, in the second lifespan determination process, before the association is established in S17, the replacement warning (S31) and replacement instruction (S35) are not executed.

[0083] When S17 is executed, control device 12A determines whether connector 21B has been unplugged (S41). If it has been unplugged (S41: Yes), S25 is executed. The method for determining whether feeder 22 has been unplugged is the same as the method for determining installation; it can be achieved by determining whether at least one of the following conditions is met: the condition that the connected feeder box 21 is disconnected from the storage unit connector 12D to the automated guided vehicle 5, and the condition that the installed feeder 22 is removed from the connected feeder box 21. Therefore, when feeder box 21 is removed, control device 12A performs the processing after S25 on all feeders 22 within the removed feeder box 21.

[0084] Control device 12A obtains the flag value of the connector 21B (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the removed connector 21B) removed from feeder 22 from storage device 12B, and determines whether a replacement warning has been issued based on the obtained flag value (S25). If a replacement warning has not been issued (S25: No), control device 12A determines whether the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2 of the removed connector 21B is greater than or equal to the replacement warning count TH3 (S45). The replacement warning count TH3 is, for example, 15,000 cycles. If the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2 is less than the replacement warning count TH3 (S45: No), control device 12A terminates the process. Figure 7 In the process of handling the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2, if it exceeds the replacement warning cycle TH3, a replacement warning is executed (S31). Thus, when the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2 of connector 21B reaches 15,000, it can be notified that the lifespan is nearing its end.

[0085] Additionally, in step S25, if the replacement notification in step S35 has been executed (S25: Yes), control device 12A determines whether the total number of mating / removal cycles CNT2 is greater than or equal to the upper limit number TH4 (S47). The upper limit number TH4 is, for example, the maximum number of mating / removal cycles recommended by the connector 21B manufacturer, i.e., the recommended replacement number of mating / removal cycles. The upper limit number TH4 is the number of cycles exceeding the replacement notification number TH3, for example, 20,000 cycles. The replacement notification number TH3 and the upper limit number TH4 are stored, for example, in storage device 12B. If the total number of mating / removal cycles CNT2 is less than the upper limit number TH4 (S47: No), control device 12A terminates the process. Figure 7 In the case where the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2 exceeds the upper limit TH4 (S47: Yes), a replacement instruction is executed (S35). Thus, when the total number of mating / unmating cycles CNT2 of connector 21B reaches 20,000, production can be stopped and the user can be asked to replace connector 21B.

[0086] As described above, the control device 12A of this embodiment can execute a first lifespan determination mode and a second lifespan determination mode. When the first lifespan determination mode is set, the control device 12A executes steps S14, S19, and S33. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, when the second lifespan determination mode is set, the control device 12A executes S14, and determines that the connector 21B has reached its lifespan when the total number of insertions and removals (CNT2) of the feeder 22 relative to the connector 21B exceeds a predetermined upper limit number TH4 (S47: Yes). Thus, depending on the user, for example, sometimes it is desirable to uniformly manage the lifespan of all connectors 21B based on the upper limit number TH4 recommended by the connector 21B manufacturer. On the other hand, depending on the user, sometimes the lifespan of the connectors 21B is not uniformly managed with a fixed value (upper limit number TH4), but rather the user wants to use the connectors 21B for as long as possible according to their respective degradation progress. In the former case, the user can select the second lifespan determination mode, and in the latter case, the user can select the first lifespan determination mode. Therefore, the lifespan can be determined according to the user's desired mode.

[0087] Furthermore, when the second main mode and the second lifespan determination mode are set, the control device 4 executes the second lifespan determination mode. The control device 4 can obtain information about the increase in the total number of insertions / removals CNT2 and information about the time point when the feeder 22 is removed from the feeder storage unit 12 or the storage device 7, and determine the lifespan based on the obtained information. In addition, as described above, the counting of insertions / removals CNT1 and the total number of insertions / removals CNT2 are performed in both the first and second lifespan determination modes. Therefore, even if the lifespan determination mode is switched in the middle of the counting, the insertions / removals CNT1 and the total number of insertions / removals CNT2 being measured in the memory 21F can be used in the changed mode. However, the insertions / removals CNT1 and the total number of insertions / removals CNT2 can also be reset according to the change of mode.

[0088] in addition, Figure 5 , Figure 7 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing content and order, which is an example and can be modified appropriately. For instance, in Figure 5 In the first lifespan determination process, before establishing the association of feeder information in S17, a replacement warning or replacement instruction is executed. However, it can also be done as follows: Figure 7 As shown in the second lifespan determination process, after executing S17, the number of insertions / removals (CNT1) is determined, and a replacement warning or replacement instruction is executed. Conversely, in the second lifespan determination process, after executing S17, the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) is determined, but it is also possible to determine the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) before executing S17 and execute a replacement warning or replacement instruction. Alternatively, the process of counting the number of insertions / removals (CNT1) and the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) in S13 can be executed after S17.

[0089] Alternatively, the production system 10 may be configured to execute only one of the first main mode and the second main mode. Alternatively, the production system 10 may be configured to execute only the first lifetime determination process. In this case, the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) may not be stored as historical information DT1.

[0090] therefore, Figure 6The structure of the historical information DT1 shown is an example. Specifically, the lifespan of connector 21B can also be determined based on values ​​other than the number of insertions / removals CNT1 and the total number of insertions / removals CNT2. For example, control device 12A can also store the date and time of the last execution of the re-acquisition process in S19 in the historical information DT1 of memory 21F. Furthermore, in S27, control device 12A determines whether the elapsed time since the last re-acquisition process is less than or equal to the replacement warning time. If the elapsed time is less than or equal to the replacement warning time (S27: Yes), control device 12A executes a replacement warning (S31). In addition, control device 12A determines, for example, in S33 whether the elapsed time is less than or equal to a replacement instruction time that is shorter than the replacement warning time. If the elapsed time is less than or equal to the replacement instruction time (S33: Yes), control device 12A executes a replacement instruction (S35). In this way, as the interval between the execution of the re-acquisition process shortens, a replacement finger warning or a replacement instruction can be executed.

[0091] Alternatively, the lifespan can be determined based on the total number of times the reacquisition process of S19 is executed again. For example, control device 12A replaces... Figure 7 The total number of insertions and removals (CNT2) is used to measure the total number of times the re-acquisition process in S19 is executed. Furthermore, the control device 12A can also execute a replacement warning or replacement instruction based on the increase in the total number of re-acquisition processes. Therefore, in the case where the number of re-acquisition processes increases due to the deterioration of connector 21B, a replacement warning and replacement instruction can be executed.

[0092] Alternatively, control device 12A may not execute the replacement notification. Additionally, control device 12A may also... Figure 5 In the processing, if S25 is not executed, and a positive judgment is made in S21 (S21: Yes), S27 is executed; if a positive judgment is made in S27 (S27: Yes), S33 is executed. Furthermore, the control device 12A can also execute S35 if a positive judgment is made in S33 (S33: Yes), and execute a replacement notification (S31) if a negative judgment is made (S33: No). Therefore, the replacement notification can be executed multiple times.

[0093] Furthermore, the correspondence between the terms used in this embodiment and those described in the claims will be explained below. The unmanned transport vehicle 5 of this embodiment is an example of a transport robot. The production system 10 is an example of an installation system. The feeder storage unit 12 and the storage device 7 are examples of installation devices. The storage unit-side connector 12D is an example of a connection unit. The feeder 22 is an example of a device for connecting objects. The replacement warning number TH1 is an example of a second threshold number. The replacement indication number TH2 is an example of a first threshold number.

[0094] Based on the above-described embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0095] In one embodiment, the control device 12A of the feeder storage unit 12 transmits feeder information to the feeder 22 connected to the connector 21B via the storage unit-side connector 12D (S14, data transmission processing, an example of a data transmission step). If the transmission of feeder information fails in S14 (S15: No), the control device 12A re-executes the transmission of feeder information via the storage unit-side connector 12D (S19, re-data transmission processing, an example of a re-data transmission step). The control device 12A determines the lifespan of the storage unit-side connector 12D based on the number of insertion / removal cycles CNT1 in S19 (S33, lifespan determination processing, an example of a lifespan determination step).

[0096] Therefore, if the feeder information acquisition fails in S14, the control device 12A attempts to reacquire the feeder information (S19). The control device 12A determines the lifespan of the connector 21B based on the historical information DT1 (number of insertions / removals CNT1) of the reacquisition process. The frequency, number of reacquisition processes, and the number of feeder information transmission failures vary depending on the degree of degradation of each connector 21B. Therefore, by determining the lifespan of the connector 21B based on the historical information DT1, it is possible to determine the lifespan based on the degradation state of each connector 21B.

[0097] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure, which goes without saying.

[0098] For example, the structure of the system, apparatus, etc., described in the above embodiment is one example. For example, production line 2 may also be structured without the line changing device 23. Alternatively, the changing of the feeder box 21 in the feeder storage section 12 or the feeder 22 in the mounting device 13 may be performed manually by a person. Additionally, production line 2 may also be structured without the control device 4.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the connector used for determining the lifespan is connector 21B of the feeder cassette 21, but it is not limited to this. The connector used for determining the lifespan can also be the feeder-side connector 22A, the cassette-side connector 21E, the storage-side connector 12D, or the mounting device-side connectors 49 and 52, etc. Therefore, the entity performing the first and second lifespan determination processes is not limited to the control device 12A, the storage device 7, or the control device 4. For example, the mounting device 13 can also determine the lifespan of the mounting device-side connectors 49 and 52 through the first and second lifespan determination processes.

[0100] Furthermore, the connection device of this disclosure is not limited to the feeder 22. For example, when the storage section-side connector 12D is used as the object for determining its lifespan, the feeder box 21 is an example of the connection device of this disclosure. Additionally, the portion of the feeder storage section 12 equipped with the storage section-side connector 12D is an example of the connection portion of this disclosure. Furthermore, for example, when the mounting device-side connectors 49 and 52 are used as the object for determining their lifespan, the feeder 22 is an example of the connection device of this disclosure. Additionally, the tray connection portion 48 and the feeder storage unit 51 are examples of the connection portions of this disclosure.

[0101] In addition, while the above embodiment provides a memory 21F for each connector 21B individually, a single memory can also be provided in the feeder box 21. Furthermore, the historical information DT1 of all connectors 21B in the feeder box 21 can be recorded and updated in the memory of the feeder box 21. In this case, if a connector 21B is replaced, the information in the memory of the replaced connector 21B can be reset.

[0102] Furthermore, the connectors disclosed herein are not limited to the connectors of the feeder 22. For example, a connector with a mounting head 47 installed in the mounting device 13 may also be used as a connector for determining its lifespan. In this case, the mounting head is an example of a connection device of this disclosure. Therefore, as a connector of this disclosure, a connector whose connection device can be disassembled and reassembled at a certain frequency can be used.

[0103] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, as an example of the data transmission processing and re-data transmission processing of this disclosure, a process of reading (obtaining) feeder information from connector 21B to control device 12A (S14, S19) was performed, but it is not limited to this. For example, a write process from control device 12A to memory 21F of connector 21B may also be performed. Moreover, the lifespan can be determined based on whether the write process is successful.

[0104] The handling robot disclosed herein is not limited to a vehicle like the unmanned transport vehicle 5, but can also be a flying object such as a drone. Furthermore, the handover of the feeder box 21 can also be performed by a multi-joint robot mounted on the unmanned transport vehicle 5. Therefore, the handling and handover methods of the feeder box 21 can be appropriately modified.

[0105] The data disclosed herein is not limited to feeder information.

[0106] In addition, Figure 5 and Figure 7In the process, the lifespan of connector 21B is determined based on the number of times the feeder 22 is installed and removed. However, the lifespan can also be determined by the number of times the feeder 22 is installed on connector 21B or removed from connector 21B.

[0107] in addition, Figure 6 The structure of the historical information DT1 shown is an example. For instance, the connector ID can also be stored separately from the historical information DT1.

[0108] In addition, in the above embodiment, the number of insertions / removals (CNT1) and the total number of insertions / removals (CNT2) are managed by the memory 21F of each connector 21B. However, information such as the number of insertions / removals (CNT1) can also be associated with the connector ID and managed only in the storage device 12B and storage device 4A.

[0109] Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the dependent relationships recorded in the claims. For example, this specification also discloses the technical idea of ​​changing "the mounting device described in claim 1 or claim 2" to "the mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3" in claim 4. Additionally, this specification also discloses the technical idea of ​​changing "the mounting device described in claim 1 or claim 2" to "the mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4" in claim 5. Furthermore, this specification also discloses the technical idea of ​​changing "the mounting device described in claim 1 or claim 2" to "the mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5" in claim 6. Finally, this specification also discloses the technical idea of ​​changing "the mounting device described in claim 1 or claim 2" to "the mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6" in claim 7.

[0110] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0111] 4 Control device, 5 Automated guided vehicle (transport robot), 7 Storage device (installation device), 10 Production system (installation system), 12 Feeder storage section (installation device), 12A Control device, 12D Storage section side connector (connection section), 21 Feeder box, 21B Connector, 22 Feeder (connection object device), 22B Locking mechanism, CNT1 Number of insertions and removals, CNT2 Total number of insertions and removals, DT1 Historical information, TH1 Number of replacement warnings (second threshold number of times), TH2 Number of replacement indications (first threshold number of times), TH4 Maximum number of times.

Claims

1. An installation device comprising: The connecting part is capable of being connected to the connected device via a connector; and The control device performs data transmission processing, re-data transmission processing, and lifespan determination processing. The data transmission processing is the process of transmitting data between the control device and the connection object device connected to the connector via the connection part. The re-data transmission processing is the process of re-performing data transmission via the connector when data transmission fails in the data transmission processing. The lifespan determination processing is the process of determining the lifespan of the connector based on the historical information of the re-data transmission processing.

2. The installation device according to claim 1, wherein, In the lifespan determination process, the control device, based on the historical information, determines the number of times the connected object device has been plugged and unplugged relative to the connector from the last execution of the re-data transmission process to the next execution of the re-data transmission process, and determines the lifespan of the connector.

3. The installation device according to claim 2, wherein, In the lifespan determination process, if the number of insertion / removal cycles is below a first threshold number, the control device determines that the connector has reached its lifespan. If the number of insertions and removals is less than a second threshold number that is more than the first threshold number, advance notification indicating that the connector is nearing the end of its lifespan is executed.

4. The mounting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control device performs the retransmission process, notifies of the error if the data transmission fails, and restricts the execution of data transmission via the connector.

5. The mounting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connection device has a locking mechanism that fixes the position of the connection device relative to the connector before performing the data transmission process. The control device performs the data transmission process when the locking mechanism is activated and the connected object device is fixed relative to the connector. In the re-data transmission process, while maintaining the fixed state based on the locking mechanism, the power supply from the connector to the connected device is cut off, and after the power supply is restarted, the data transmission via the connector is performed.

6. The mounting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting device is a feeder that supplies the supply components. The connecting part allows the feeder box to be disassembled and assembled. The feeder housing is capable of accommodating multiple feeders and has multiple connectors capable of connecting to each of the multiple feeders respectively. In the data transmission processing, the control device acquires data related to the feeder from the feeder via a newly connected connector among the plurality of connectors of the feeder box connected to the connection portion. If the data cannot be obtained through the aforementioned data transmission process, in the subsequent data transmission process, the data is retrieved again via the newly connected connector of the feeder. In the lifespan determination process, the lifespan of the connector newly connected to the feeder is determined based on the historical information from the data transmission process performed again.

7. The mounting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control device is capable of executing a first lifespan determination mode and a second lifespan determination mode. When the first lifetime determination mode is set, the data transmission process, the subsequent data transmission process, and the lifetime determination process are executed. When the second lifespan determination mode is set, the data transmission process is executed, and if the total number of insertions and removals of the connected object device relative to the connector, i.e., the total number of insertions and removals, is above a predetermined upper limit, the connector is determined to have reached its lifespan.

8. An installation system, comprising: Installation device; and The control unit manages the installation device. The mounting device has a connection portion that can be connected to the device to be connected via a connector, and the mounting device performs the following processing: Data transmission processing, transmitting data between the mounting device and the connection object device connected to the connector via the connection portion; and In the event that data transmission failed during the previous data transmission process, the data transmission is performed again via the connector. The governing device performs a lifespan determination process based on historical information from the retransmission data processing to determine the lifespan of the connector.

9. The installation system according to claim 8, wherein, The connection device is a feeder for supplying components. The connecting part allows the feeder box to be disassembled and assembled. The feeder housing is capable of accommodating multiple feeders and has multiple connectors capable of connecting to each of the multiple feeders respectively. The installation system has the following features: Multiple of the aforementioned mounting devices; and A transport robot moves the feeder box between the multiple installation devices. In the data transmission process, each of the aforementioned mounting devices acquires data related to the feeder from the feeder via a newly connected connector among the plurality of connectors provided by the feeder box connected to the connection portion. If the data cannot be obtained through the aforementioned data transmission process, in the subsequent data transmission process, the data is retrieved again via the newly connected connector of the feeder. The control device obtains information from the multiple installation devices regarding the execution of the re-transmission data processing and records it as historical information. In the lifespan determination process, the governing device determines the lifespan of the connector newly connected to the feeder based on the recorded historical information.

10. A method for determining the lifespan of a connector, comprising the steps of using a connector portion capable of connecting to a connected device via the connector to determine the lifespan of the connector: The data transmission process transmits data between the connected object device connected to the connector via the connection portion; In the subsequent data transmission process, if data transmission fails in the previous data transmission process, the data transmission is performed again via the connector; and The lifespan determination process uses historical information from the subsequent data transmission process to determine the lifespan of the connector.

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