Panel storage container

Abstract

The utility model provides a panel storage container capable of improving maintainability. The panel storage container includes: a container body defining an internal space in which a plurality of panels are stored; and a support mechanism provided in the inner space and supporting the plurality of panels, the support mechanism including a shaft extending in the front-back direction, the container body including: a back wall located on the back of the container body; and a fixing part that fixes the shaft to the rear wall, and that includes a fastening member that can be operated from the outside of the container body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a panel storage container. Background Technology

[0002] A panel storage container is known to hold multiple panels. For example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-141839 discloses a panel storage container comprising: a container body for holding multiple panels; and a panel support portion disposed on the inner side of the container body for supporting the multiple panels. Utility Model Content

[0003] In the panel storage container described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-141839, the axis of the panel support is fixed to a support post provided on the front of the back wall of the container body. Therefore, when replacing the axis, it is necessary to disassemble the back wall. In this technical field, it is desirable to improve maintainability.

[0004] This utility model describes a panel storage container that can improve maintainability.

[0005] One aspect of this utility model is a panel storage container, comprising: a container body defining an internal space for storing multiple panels; and a support mechanism disposed within the internal space to support the multiple panels, wherein the support mechanism includes a shaft extending in a front-rear direction. The container body includes: a back wall located on the back of the container body; and a fixing part fixing the shaft to the back wall, wherein the fixing part includes a fastening member operable from the outside of the container body.

[0006] In the panel storage container, the fixing part that secures the shaft to the back wall includes a fastening member operable from outside the container body. Therefore, by operating the fastening member from outside the container body, the shaft can be mounted and detached relative to the back wall. Thus, the shaft can be replaced without disassembling the back wall, thereby improving maintainability.

[0007] The fastening member secures the rear end of the shaft to the back wall. In this case, the shaft can be mounted and dismounted relative to the back wall by operating the fastening member from outside the container body. Therefore, the shaft can be replaced without disassembling the back wall, thus improving maintainability.

[0008] The fixing part may also include a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the rear end of the shaft. In this case, the airtightness of the internal space can be improved.

[0009] The support mechanism may include multiple shafts, each containing a shaft. The fixing portion may further include a block detachably mounted on the back wall and securing the rear ends of the multiple shafts. Fastening members secure the block to the back wall. In this case, the block can be detached relative to the back wall by operating the fastening members from outside the container body. Therefore, multiple shafts can be replaced integrally without disassembling the back wall, thus improving maintainability.

[0010] The support mechanism may also include a connecting member that links the front ends of multiple shafts. In this case, since the rear ends of the multiple shafts are fixed to the block and the front ends are connected by the connecting member, the multiple shafts are integrated. This reduces the possibility of shaft breakage.

[0011] The fixing part may also include a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the block. In this case, the airtightness of the internal space can be improved.

[0012] The fixing part may also include a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the fastening member. In this case, the airtightness of the internal space can be improved.

[0013] According to this utility model, maintainability can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a panel storage container according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The back view of the panel storage container is shown.

[0016] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 A perspective view of the back wall and support mechanism shown.

[0017] Figure 4 It is a decomposition representation Figure 3 A perspective view of part of the back wall and support mechanism shown.

[0018] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the VV line.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the back wall and support mechanism of a panel storage container according to another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 It is a decomposition representation Figure 6 A perspective view of part of the back wall and support mechanism shown.

[0021] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII.

[0022] Explanation of icon numbers

[0023] 1: Panel storage container

[0024] 2: Container body

[0025] 2a, 43a: Opening

[0026] 3: Cover

[0027] 4: Handle

[0028] 6, 6A: Supporting structure

[0029] 7, 7A: Fixing part

[0030] 20: Interior Space

[0031] 21: Top Slab

[0032] 22: Base plate

[0033] 23: Sidewall

[0034] 24, 24A: Back wall

[0035] 25: Flange

[0036] 25h: Locking hole

[0037] 31: Cover Body

[0038] 32: Cover component

[0039] 32h: Keyhole

[0040] 33: Locking mechanism

[0041] 41: Ontology Department

[0042] 42: Window

[0043] 43: Cover

[0044] 44: Flange portion

[0045] 45, 46: Supporting sections

[0046] 45a, 46a, 81a, 82a: Fitting holes

[0047] 45b, 45i, 46i: Fastening holes

[0048] 45c: partition

[0049] 45d, 46b, 82b: Through holes

[0050] 45g, 46g: [Various sizes / types]

[0051] 45h, 46h: Storage holes

[0052] 61, 62: Supporting components

[0053] 61a, 62a: Shaft

[0054] 61b, 62b: Elastomers

[0055] 62c, 62d: Stop components

[0056] 63: Maintain body

[0057] 64: Connecting structural components

[0058] 71, 74, 75, 83, 85: Fastening components

[0059] 72, 73, 76, 77, 84, 86: Sealing components

[0060] 78: Pad

[0061] 81, 82: Blocks

[0062] X, Y, Z: Axial directions Detailed Implementation

[0063] The embodiments of this utility model will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals will be used for the same elements, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. The XYZ coordinate system is shown in each figure. The Y-axis direction is the direction that intersects (here, orthogonally) the X-axis and Z-axis directions. The Z-axis direction is the direction that intersects (here, orthogonally) the X-axis and Y-axis directions. As an example, the X-axis direction is the left-right direction (width direction), the Y-axis direction is the front-back direction (depth direction), and the Z-axis direction is the up-down direction (height direction). For ease of explanation, the terms "front," "back," "up," "down," "left," and "right" are used, but the description is not limited to these directions.

[0064] While referring to Figure 1 The following describes a panel storage container according to one embodiment. Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a panel storage container according to one embodiment. Figure 1The panel storage container 1 shown is a container for storing multiple panels. The panel storage container 1 conforms to, for example, Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) specifications. Examples of panels include glass substrates for liquid crystal panels and panels with mounted electronic components. The panels have a rectangular shape. Examples of panel sizes include 510 mm × 515 mm and 600 mm × 600 mm. The number of panels that can be stored in the panel storage container 1 is arbitrary, for example, six, twelve, sixteen, or twenty-four panels.

[0065] The panel storage container 1 is used, for example, in a manufacturing apparatus for electronic component assemblies. The electronic component assemblies are manufactured, for example, through the following processes: mounting multiple electronic components on a large carrier plate such as a glass plate or stainless steel plate; sealing these electronic components using epoxy resin or the like; peeling the sealed electronic components from the carrier plate in panel form; and individually cutting out panel-shaped electronic components. The panel storage container 1 is used to transfer panels between these processes.

[0066] The panel storage container 1 includes the container body 2, the lid 3, and a pair of handles 4.

[0067] The container body 2 is a cuboid-shaped container with an open front (front surface). In other words, the container body 2 is a front-opening box-type container with an opening 2a on its front surface. The container body 2 defines an internal space 20 for accommodating multiple panels. The container body 2 stores the multiple panels in a stacked manner with gaps between them in the vertical direction. The panels enter and exit the container body 2 through the opening 2a.

[0068] The container body 2 includes a top plate 21, a bottom plate 22, a pair of side walls 23, a back wall 24, and a flange 25.

[0069] The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, side walls 23, and back wall 24 are rectangular plates. The top plate 21 and bottom plate 22 are opposite each other in the vertical direction and are substantially parallel. The pair of side walls 23 are opposite each other in the horizontal direction and are substantially parallel. The back wall 24 is located on the back of the container body 2 and is opposite to the cover 3 in the front-back direction when the opening 2a is closed by the cover 3.

[0070] Two adjacent components of the top plate 21, bottom plate 22, side wall 23, and back wall 24 are connected by fasteners such as screws. The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, a pair of side walls 23, and back wall 24 define an internal space 20 for accommodating multiple panels. The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, and side walls 23 may be made of metal materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. Details of the back wall 24 will be described later.

[0071] The flange 25 is a rectangular frame that extends to the front end of the top plate 21, the front end of the bottom plate 22, and the front ends of a pair of side walls 23. The flange 25 defines an opening 2a. The flange 25 may be made of resin or metal materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. Two locking holes 25h are provided on the upper and lower frame portions of the flange 25, spaced apart in the left-right direction. The locking holes 25h on the upper and lower frame portions are positioned opposite each other in the vertical direction.

[0072] The lid 3 is a component used to close the opening 2a of the container body 2. The lid 3 airtightly closes the opening 2a of the container body 2 via a sealing member such as a gasket. The lid 3 is detachably mounted to the flange 25 that defines the opening 2a. When the opening 2a is closed, the lid 3 is opposite to the panel housed in the container body 2 in the front-back direction. The lid 3 includes a lid body 31, a cover member 32, and a locking mechanism 33.

[0073] The cover body 31 is the main body of the cover 3. The cover body 31 is a rectangular plate. The cover body 31 may contain metal materials such as aluminum and magnesium alloys. The cover body 31 may also contain thermoplastic resins such as polycarbonate resin. The cover member 32 is a member that covers the front surface of the cover body 31. The cover member 32 is a rectangular plate. The cover member 32 may contain resin materials such as polycarbonate. A keyhole 32h is provided on the cover member 32. A key (not shown) is inserted into the keyhole 32h.

[0074] The locking mechanism 33 locks or unlocks the cover 3 by operating a key inserted into the keyhole 32h. The locking mechanism 33 includes a latch (not shown). With the cover 3 mounted on the flange 25, the latch is engaged into the locking hole 25h on the flange 25 by operating the key, thereby locking the cover 3. With the cover 3 locked, the latch is removed from the locking hole 25h by operating the key, thereby unlocking the cover 3.

[0075] A pair of handles 4 are conveying components used in the conveying device to move the panel storage container 1. Handles 4 are also called robot flanges (top flanges). The conveying device can use a pair of handles 4 to lift the panel storage container 1 for conveying.

[0076] The container body 2, lid 3, and handle 4 are constructed by combining multiple parts formed from metal or resin materials. Examples of resins included in the molding material include thermoplastic resins. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polycarbonate, cyclic olefin polymers, polyetherimide, polyetherketone, polyetheretherketone, polybutylene terephthalate, polyacetal, liquid crystal polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, and acrylic resins such as acrylic resins and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers. Mixtures of these resins may also be used as the molding material.

[0077] Conductive substances and various antistatic agents can also be added to these resins. Conductive substances include, for example, carbon fibers, carbon powder, carbon nanotubes, or conductive polymers. Anionic, cationic, and nonionic antistatic agents can be used. Benzotriazole, salicylic acid, cyanoacrylate, oxalate aniline, and hindered amine UV absorbers can also be added. Glass fibers or carbon fibers, which improve rigidity, can also be selectively added.

[0078] Next, while further referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure of the back wall 24 and the internal space 20 is explained. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The back view of the panel storage container is shown. Figure 3 It means Figure 2 A perspective view of the back wall and support mechanism shown.

[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the back wall 24 includes a body portion 41 and a pair of window portions 42. The body portion 41 is the main body part of the back wall 24. The body portion 41 includes a cover portion 43, a flange portion 44, a support portion 45, and a pair of support portions 46. The cover portion 43 has a flat, rectangular box-shaped shape that is recessed from the interior space 20 toward the rear. A flange portion 44 is provided around the periphery of the cover portion 43. The flange portion 44 is provided all around the circumference of the cover portion 43. The flange portion 44 is fixed to the rear end of the top plate 21, the rear end of the bottom plate 22, and the rear end of the pair of side walls 23 by fastening members such as screws, thereby connecting the back wall 24 to the top plate 21, the bottom plate 22, and the pair of side walls 23.

[0080] The support portion 45 and the pair of support portions 46 are columnar portions extending in the vertical direction. The support portion 45 and the pair of support portions 46 are disposed from the upper end to the lower end of the cover portion 43. One support portion 46, the support portion 45, and the other support portion 46 are arranged sequentially in the left-right direction and are substantially parallel to each other. The support portion 45 is located at the center of the back wall 24 in the left-right direction, and the pair of support portions 46 are located near both ends of the back wall 24 in the left-right direction. The rear end of the shaft 61a (described later) is mounted on the support portion 45, and the rear end of the shaft 62a (described later) is mounted on the support portion 46.

[0081] In the cover portion 43, a pair of openings 43a are provided between the support portion 45 and one of the support portions 46, and between the support portion 45 and the other support portion 46. A pair of windows 42 are provided to close the pair of openings 43a. Each window 42 is a plate-shaped component with a shape that is larger than the opening 43a. Each window 42 contains, for example, a transparent resin material that allows the interior space 20 to be viewed from the outside of the container body 2. Examples of transparent resin materials include acrylic resin, polycarbonate, vinyl chloride resin, and cyclic olefin polymers.

[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the panel storage container 1 also includes a support mechanism 6. The support mechanism 6 is a mechanism for supporting multiple panels. The support mechanism 6 is disposed inside the container body 2 (internal space 20). The support mechanism 6 includes multiple support members 61, multiple support members 62, and multiple retaining bodies 63.

[0083] Each support member 61 is a portion used to support the central portion of the panel in the left-right direction. Each support member 61 includes a shaft 61a and a plurality of elastic bodies 61b. The shaft 61a is a columnar (e.g., cylindrical) member extending in the front-back direction. The rear end of the shaft 61a is fixed to the support portion 45 of the back wall 24. The shaft 61a may contain, for example, a material with high bending stiffness. Examples of materials for the shaft 61a include metals such as stainless steel and aluminum, as well as carbon fiber reinforced plastics.

[0084] Each elastomer 61b is an annular (e.g., circular) component disposed around the axis of shaft 61a on the outer circumferential surface of shaft 61a. The elastomer 61b is provided to suppress panel slippage and improve panel positioning accuracy. The elastomer 61b may comprise, for example, a rubber material. Examples of rubber materials include ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), silicone rubber, and fluororubber. Multiple elastomers 61b are arranged at certain intervals along the extension direction of shaft 61a.

[0085] Each support member 62 is a portion used to support the ends of the panel in the left-right direction. Each support member 62 includes a shaft 62a, a plurality of elastic bodies 62b, a stop member 62c, and a stop member 62d. The shaft 62a is a columnar (e.g., cylindrical) member extending in the front-rear direction. The rear end of the shaft 62a is fixed to the support portion 46 of the back wall 24. The shaft 62a may contain, for example, a material with high bending stiffness. Examples of materials for the shaft 62a include metals such as stainless steel and aluminum, as well as carbon fiber reinforced plastics. The length of the shaft 62a in the front-rear direction is slightly longer than the length of the panel in the front-rear direction, and longer than the length of the shaft 61a in the front-rear direction.

[0086] Each elastomer 62b is an annular (e.g., circular) component disposed around the axis of shaft 62a on the outer circumferential surface of shaft 62a. The elastomers 62b are provided to suppress panel slippage and improve panel positioning accuracy. The constituent materials and arrangement of elastomers 62b are the same as those of elastomers 61b, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0087] Stop 62c is a component used to prevent the panel from flying off and to determine the position of the front end of the panel. Stop 62c comprises, for example, the resin material. Stop 62c is disposed at the front end of shaft 62a. Stop 62d is a component used to determine the position of the rear end of the panel. Stop 62d comprises, for example, the resin material. Stop 62d is disposed at the rear end of shaft 62a. Stop 62d has a block-shaped form. A through hole is provided in stop 62d for shaft 62a to pass through in the front-rear direction.

[0088] The number of support members 61 and 62 varies according to the number of panels that can be stored in the panel storage container 1. In this embodiment, the panel storage container 1 includes one support member 61 and two support members 62 for each panel. In other words, a storage layer for storing one panel is formed by one support member 61 and two support members 62. In the left-right direction, a support member 61 is arranged between the two support members 62.

[0089] Each retainer 63 is a component used to retain (support) the shaft 62a of the support member 62 and to support the end of the panel in the left-right direction. A through hole is provided at the front end of the retainer 63, extending through the retainer 63 in the front-rear direction, through which the shaft 62a is inserted. The bottom end of the retainer 63 is fixed to the inner surface of the side wall 23.

[0090] Next, while referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The description explains how shafts 61a and 62a are fixed to the fixing part 7 on the back wall 24. Figure 4 It is a decomposition representation Figure 3 A perspective view of part of the back wall and support mechanism shown. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the VV line.

[0091] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the support portion 45 is provided with a plurality of fitting holes 45a and a plurality of fastening holes 45b. Each fitting hole 45a is recessed rearward from the front surface of the support portion 45. The rear end of the shaft 61a is inserted into each fitting hole 45a. Each fastening hole 45b is recessed forward from the rear surface of the support portion 45. The head of the fastening member 71 (described later) is received in each fastening hole 45b. The fitting holes 45a and the fastening holes 45b are separated by a partition plate 45c, and the partition plate 45c is provided with an insertion hole 45d through which the shaft portion of the fastening member 71 can be inserted.

[0092] Similarly, the support portion 46 is provided with multiple fitting holes 46a and multiple fastening holes (not shown). Each fitting hole 46a is recessed rearward from the front surface of the support portion 46. The rear end of the shaft 62a is inserted into each fitting hole 46a. Each fastening hole of the support portion 46 is recessed forward from the rear surface of the support portion 46. The head of the fastening member 74 (described later) is received in the fastening hole. The fitting holes 46a and the fastening holes are separated by a partition, which is provided with an insertion hole through which the shaft portion of the fastening member 74 can be inserted. The support portion 46 is provided with multiple insertion holes 46b that extend through the support portion 46 in the front-rear direction. The fastening member 75 (described later) is inserted into each insertion hole 46b.

[0093] The container body 2 also includes a fixing part 7. The fixing part 7 includes a plurality of fastening members 71, a plurality of sealing members 72, a plurality of sealing members 73, a plurality of fastening members 74, a plurality of fastening members 75, a plurality of sealing members 76, a plurality of sealing members 77 and a plurality of gaskets 78.

[0094] Each fastening member 71 is a component that fixes the rear end of the shaft 61a to the back wall 24 (support portion 45). Each fastening member 71 protrudes from the outside of the container body 2 and can be operated from the outside of the container body 2 (outside the panel housing container 1). Each fastening member 71 is, for example, a bolt. Each sealing member 72 and each sealing member 73 is, for example, an O-ring. Each sealing member 72 and each sealing member 73 may also be a gasket. Each sealing member 72 is disposed within a fastening hole 45b, between the back wall 24 (support portion 45) and the fastening member 71. Each sealing member 73 is disposed within a fitting hole 45a, between the back wall 24 (support portion 45) and the rear end of the shaft 61a.

[0095] Each fastening member 74 is a member that fixes the rear end of the shaft 62a to the back wall 24 (support portion 46). Each fastening member 75 is a member that fixes the stop 62d to the back wall 24. Each fastening member 74 and each fastening member 75 protrudes from the outside of the container body 2 and can be operated from the outside of the container body 2 (outside the panel housing container 1). Each fastening member 74 and each fastening member 75 is, for example, a bolt. Each sealing member 76 and each sealing member 77 is, for example, an O-ring. Each sealing member 76 and each sealing member 77 may also be a gasket. Each sealing member 76 is disposed in the fastening hole of the support portion 46 and is disposed between the back wall 24 (support portion 46) and the fastening member 74. Each sealing member 77 is disposed in the fitting hole 46a and is disposed between the back wall 24 (support portion 46) and the rear end of the shaft 62a. The gasket 78 is an annular metal plate used to improve airtightness.

[0096] The sealing member 73 is inserted into the fitting hole 45a, and the rear end of the shaft 61a is embedded in the fitting hole 45a. Furthermore, the shaft portion of the fastening member 71 is sequentially inserted into the sealing member 72, the insertion hole 45d of the partition 45c, and the sealing member 73, and screwed into the threaded hole located at the rear end of the shaft 61a. Thus, with the sealing member 72 held between the head of the fastening member 71 and the partition 45c, and the sealing member 73 held between the rear end (rear end) of the shaft 61a and the partition 45c, the rear end of the shaft 61a is fixed to the support portion 45.

[0097] The sealing member 77 is inserted into the fitting hole 46a, and the rear end of the shaft 62a is inserted through the insertion hole of the stop member 62d and embedded in the fitting hole 46a. Furthermore, the shaft portion of the fastening member 74 is sequentially inserted through the insertion holes of the sealing member 76, the partition, and the sealing member 77, and screwed into the threaded hole provided at the rear end of the shaft 62a. Thus, with the sealing member 76 held between the head of the fastening member 74 and the partition, and the sealing member 77 held between the rear end (rear end) of the shaft 62a and the partition, the rear end of the shaft 62a is fixed to the support portion 46. Next, the shaft portion of the fastening member 75 is sequentially inserted through the pad 78 and the insertion hole 46b, and screwed into the threaded hole provided on the rear surface of the stop member 62d. Thus, the stop member 62d is fixed to the support portion 46.

[0098] When replacing shaft 61a, the fastening member 71, which is exposed outside the container body 2, is removed from the rear end of shaft 61a by operating it from the outside of the container body 2, and the rear end of shaft 61a is pulled out from the fitting hole 45a. Thus, shaft 61a is removed from the support portion 45. Furthermore, the rear end of the new shaft 61a is inserted into the fitting hole 45a. Moreover, as described above, the fastening member 71 is screwed from the outside of the container body 2 into a threaded hole provided at the rear end of shaft 61a. Through these steps, shaft 61a is replaced.

[0099] When replacing shaft 62a, the fastening member 74, which protrudes from the outside of container body 2, is removed from the rear end of shaft 62a by operating it from the outside of container body 2. The rear end of shaft 62a is then pulled out from the fitting hole 46a. This removes shaft 62a from the support portion 46. The rear end of the new shaft 62a is then inserted into the insertion hole of the stop member 62d and fitted into the fitting hole 46a. Furthermore, as described above, the fastening member 74 is screwed into the threaded hole at the rear end of shaft 62a from the outside of container body 2. Through these steps, shaft 62a is replaced.

[0100] In the panel storage container 1 described above, the fixing part 7 that secures shafts 61a and 62a to the back wall 24 includes fastening members 71 and 74 operable from outside the container body 2. Therefore, shaft 61a can be installed or removed by operating fastening member 71 from outside the container body 2. Similarly, shaft 62a can be installed or removed by operating fastening member 74 from outside the container body 2. Thus, shafts 61a and 62a can be replaced without disassembling the back wall 24, thereby improving maintainability.

[0101] Specifically, fastening member 71 secures the rear end of shaft 61a to the back wall 24 (support portion 45). Therefore, by operating fastening member 71 from outside the container body 2, shaft 61a can be mounted and dismounted relative to support portion 45. Thus, shaft 61a can be replaced without disassembling the back wall 24, thereby improving maintainability. Similarly, fastening member 74 secures the rear end of shaft 62a to the back wall 24 (support portion 46). Therefore, by operating fastening member 74 from outside the container body 2, shaft 62a can be mounted and dismounted relative to support portion 46. Thus, shaft 62a can be replaced without disassembling the back wall 24, thereby improving maintainability.

[0102] A sealing member 72 is provided between the partition 45c of the support portion 45 and the head of the fastening member 71, and a sealing member 73 is provided between the partition 45c of the support portion 45 and the rear end of the shaft 61a. This prevents gas from passing through the fastening hole 45b and the fitting hole 45a and flowing into the internal space 20. Therefore, the airtightness of the internal space 20 is improved. A sealing member 76 is provided between the partition of the support portion 46 and the head of the fastening member 74, and a sealing member 77 is provided between the partition of the support portion 46 and the rear end of the shaft 62a. This prevents gas from passing through the fastening hole and the fitting hole 46a of the support portion 46 and flowing into the internal space 20. Therefore, the airtightness of the internal space 20 is improved.

[0103] Next, while referring to Figures 6-8 The following describes another embodiment of the panel storage container. Figure 6This is a perspective view showing the back wall and support mechanism of a panel storage container according to another embodiment. Figure 7 It is a decomposition representation Figure 6 A perspective view of part of the back wall and support mechanism shown. Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII.

[0104] like Figures 6-8 As shown, the panel storage container of another embodiment differs from the panel storage container 1 mainly in that it includes a support mechanism 6A, a fixing part 7A, and a back wall 24A instead of a support mechanism 6, a fixing part 7A, and a back wall 24A. The support mechanism 6A differs from the support mechanism 6 mainly in that each support member 62 does not include a stop member 62c, and also includes a plurality of connecting members 64.

[0105] Each connecting member 64 is a component that connects the front ends of multiple shafts 62a. Each connecting member 64 is provided corresponding to the block 82 described later, and connects the front ends of multiple shafts 62a fixed to the corresponding block 82. In this embodiment, each connecting member 64 connects the front ends of four shafts 62a arranged in the vertical direction.

[0106] Each connecting member 64 has a shape that does not interfere with the panel housed in the storage layer. Specifically, each connecting member 64 includes: a body portion extending in a vertical direction; and a plurality of arms extending from the body portion to the front end of the shaft 62a connected by the connecting member 64. The body portion is located between the side wall 23 near the shaft 62a and the shaft 62a in one of a pair of side walls 23. The plurality of arms are arranged at intervals from each other in a vertical direction.

[0107] The back wall 24A differs from the back wall 24 mainly in the shape of the support portions 45 and 46. Multiple grooves 45g are provided in the support portions 45 of the back wall 24A. Each groove 45g is recessed rearward from the front surface of the support portion 45 and extends in the vertical direction. Each groove 45g has a shape that allows the block 81, described later, to fit into it. Therefore, the same number of grooves 45g as the block 81 fixed to the support portion 45 are arranged vertically in the support portion 45.

[0108] A plurality of receiving holes 45h are provided on the support portion 45 of the rear wall 24A. Each receiving hole 45h is recessed further rearward from the groove portion 45g. Each receiving hole 45h is provided to avoid interference between the head of the fastening member 71 and the support portion 45. Each receiving hole 45h has a shape capable of receiving the head of the fastening member 71. Therefore, in each groove portion 45g, the same number of receiving holes 45h as the shaft 61a of the block 81 fixed in the groove portion 45g are arranged in the vertical direction.

[0109] A plurality of fastening holes 45i are provided on the support portion 45 of the back wall 24A. Each fastening hole 45i extends from the groove portion 45g through the support portion 45 in the front-rear direction to the rear surface of the support portion 45. Each groove portion 45g has one fastening hole 45i. A fastening member 83 for fixing the block 81 to the support portion 45 is inserted into each fastening hole 45i.

[0110] Each support portion 46 on the back wall 24A is provided with a plurality of grooves 46g. Each groove 46g is recessed from the front surface of the support portion 46 and extends in the vertical direction. Each groove 46g has a shape that allows the block 82, described later, to fit into it. Therefore, in each support portion 46, the same number of grooves 46g as the block 82 fixed to the support portion 46 are arranged in the vertical direction.

[0111] Each support portion 46 on the rear wall 24A is provided with a plurality of receiving holes 46h. Each receiving hole 46h is recessed further rearward from the groove portion 46g. Each receiving hole 46h is provided to avoid interference between the head of the fastening member 74 and the head of the fastening member 75 and the support portion 46. Each receiving hole 46h has a shape capable of receiving the head of the fastening member 74 and the head of the fastening member 75. Therefore, in each groove portion 46g, the same number of receiving holes 46h as the shaft 62a of the block 82 fixed in the groove portion 46g are arranged in the vertical direction.

[0112] Each support portion 46 on the back wall 24A has a plurality of fastening holes 46i. Each fastening hole 46i extends from the groove portion 46g along the front-rear direction through the support portion 46 to the rear surface of the support portion 46. Each groove portion 46g has one fastening hole 46i. A fastening member 85 for fixing the block 82 to the support portion 46 is inserted into each fastening hole 46i.

[0113] The main difference between the fixing part 7A and the fixing part 7 lies in the way the shafts 61a and 62a are fixed to the back wall 24A. Specifically, the fixing part 7A also includes multiple blocks 81, multiple blocks 82, multiple fastening members 83, multiple sealing members 84, multiple fastening members 85, and multiple sealing members 86.

[0114] Each block 81 is a component that fixes the rear end of a plurality of shafts 61a. Each block 81 is detachably mounted on the back wall 24A (support portion 45). Each block 81 has a columnar shape extending in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the rear end of four shafts 61a arranged in the vertical direction is fixed to each block 81. Each block 81 is provided with the same number of fitting holes 81a as the shafts 61a fixed to the block 81. Each fitting hole 81a is recessed rearward from the front surface of the block 81. The rear end of the shaft 61a is inserted into each fitting hole 81a.

[0115] Each block 82 is a component that fixes the rear end of a plurality of shafts 62a. Each block 82 is detachably mounted on the back wall 24A (support part 46). Each block 82 has a columnar shape extending in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the rear ends of four shafts 62a arranged in the vertical direction are fixed to each block 82. Each block 82 is provided with the same number of fitting holes 82a as the shafts 62a fixed to the block 82. Each fitting hole 82a is recessed from the front surface of the block 82 to the rear. The rear end of the shaft 62a is inserted into each fitting hole 82a. Each block 82 is provided with the same number of through holes 82b as the shafts 62a fixed to the block 82. Each through hole 82b extends through the block 82 in the front-rear direction. A fastening member 75 is inserted into each through hole 82b.

[0116] Each fastening member 83 is a component that secures the block 81 to the back wall 24A (support portion 45). Each fastening member 83 can be operated from outside the container body 2 (outside the panel housing container). Each fastening member 83 is, for example, a bolt. The sealing member 84 is, for example, an O-ring. The sealing member 84 is provided between the back wall 24A (support portion 45) and the block 81.

[0117] Each fastening member 85 is a component that secures the block 82 to the back wall 24A (support portion 46). Each fastening member 85 can be operated from outside the container body 2 (outside the panel housing container). Each fastening member 85 is, for example, a bolt. The sealing member 86 is, for example, an O-ring. The sealing member 86 is disposed between the back wall 24A (support portion 46) and the block 82.

[0118] The rear end of shaft 61a is inserted into fitting hole 81a, and the shaft portion of fastening member 71 is inserted from the rear surface of block 81 into through hole communicating with fitting hole 81a, and screwed into threaded hole provided at the rear end of shaft 61a. Thus, the rear end of shaft 61a is fixed to block 81. In addition, similar to panel storage container 1, at least one of sealing member 72 and sealing member 73 may also be provided.

[0119] After the four shafts 61a are fixed to the block 81, the sealing member 84 is arranged to surround the threaded hole provided on the rear surface of the block 81. In this state, the block 81 is fitted into the groove 45g so that the heads of each fastening member 71 are housed in the corresponding receiving hole 45h. Moreover, the shaft portion of the fastening member 83 is inserted from the rear surface of the support portion 45 to the fastening hole 45i and screwed into the threaded hole provided on the rear surface of the block 81. Thus, with the sealing member 84 clamped between the block 81 and the support portion 45, the block 81 is fixed to the support portion 45.

[0120] Similarly, the rear end of shaft 62a is inserted through the through hole of stop member 62d and embedded in fitting hole 82a. Furthermore, the shaft portion of fastening member 74 is inserted from the rear surface of block 82 through the through hole communicating with fitting hole 82a and screwed into threaded hole provided at the rear end of shaft 62a. Thus, the rear end of shaft 62a is fixed to block 82. Next, the shaft portion of fastening member 75 is inserted through the through hole 82b and screwed into threaded hole provided on the rear surface of stop member 62d. Thus, stop member 62d is fixed to block 82. Additionally, similar to panel storage container 1, at least one of sealing member 76, sealing member 77, and gasket 78 may also be provided.

[0121] After the four shafts 62a and four stops 62d are fixed to the block 82, the sealing member 86 is arranged to surround the threaded holes provided on the rear surface of the block 82. In this state, the block 82 is fitted into the groove 46g so that the heads of each fastening member 74 and the heads of each fastening member 75 are housed in the corresponding receiving holes 46h. Moreover, the shaft portion of the fastening member 85 is inserted from the rear surface of the support portion 46 to the fastening hole 46i and screwed into the threaded hole provided on the rear surface of the block 82. Thus, with the sealing member 86 clamped between the block 82 and the support portion 46, the block 82 is fixed to the support portion 46.

[0122] When replacing shaft 61a, the fastening member 83, which is exposed on the outside of the container body 2, is removed from the block 81 by operating it from the outside of the container body 2. The block 81 is then removed from the groove 45g. This removes the four shafts 61a fixed to the block 81 from the support portion 45. Furthermore, as described above, the block 81 with the new shaft 61a is fitted into the groove 45g, and the fastening member 83 is screwed from the outside of the container body 2 into a threaded hole provided on the rear surface of the block 81. Through this process, the shafts 61a are replaced on a block-by-block basis.

[0123] When replacing shaft 62a, the fastening member 85, which protrudes from the outside of the container body 2, is similarly removed from the block 82 by operating it from the outside of the container body 2. The block 82 is then removed from the groove 46g. This removes the four shafts 62a fixed to the block 82 from the support portion 46. Furthermore, as described above, the block 82 with the new shaft 62a is fitted into the groove 46g, and the fastening member 85 is screwed from the outside of the container body 2 into a threaded hole on the rear surface of the block 82. Through this process, the shafts 62a are replaced on a block-by-block basis.

[0124] In the panel storage container of another embodiment described above, the structure common to panel storage container 1 also achieves the same effect as panel storage container 1. Furthermore, in the panel storage container of another embodiment, the block 81 to which multiple shafts 61a are fixed can be detached from the support column 45 by operating the fastening member 83 from the outside of the container body 2. Therefore, multiple shafts 61a can be replaced integrally without disassembling the back wall 24A, thus further improving maintainability. Similarly, the block 82 to which multiple shafts 62a are fixed can be detached from the support column 46 by operating the fastening member 85 from the outside of the container body 2. Therefore, multiple shafts 62a can be replaced integrally without disassembling the back wall 24A, thus further improving maintainability.

[0125] When the front ends of multiple shafts 62a, whose rear ends are fixed to the block 82, are not connected, the front ends of the multiple shafts 62a can move in different directions. In this case, applying a load to the shafts 62a could lead to breakage. In contrast, each connecting member 64 connects the front ends of the multiple shafts 62a fixed to the corresponding block 82. With this structure, the rear ends of the multiple shafts 62a are fixed to the block 82, and the front ends are connected by the connecting members 64. Therefore, the movement of the front ends of the multiple shafts 62a fixed to the block 82 is restricted, thus integrating the multiple shafts 62a. This reduces the possibility of shaft breakage.

[0126] A sealing member 84 is provided between the support column 45 and the block 81. This prevents gas from passing through the fastening hole 45i and the groove 45g and flowing into the internal space 20. Therefore, the airtightness of the internal space 20 is improved. A sealing member 86 is provided between the support column 46 and the block 82. This prevents gas from passing through the fastening hole 46i and the groove 46g and flowing into the internal space 20. Therefore, the airtightness of the internal space 20 is improved.

[0127] Furthermore, the panel storage container of this utility model is not limited to the described embodiment.

[0128] Either sealing member 72 or sealing member 73 may be omitted. As long as the airtightness of the internal space 20 can be ensured, sealing member 72 and sealing member 73 may be omitted. Similarly, either sealing member 76 or sealing member 77 may be omitted. As long as the airtightness of the internal space 20 can be ensured, sealing member 76 and sealing member 77 may be omitted. Gasket 78 may also be omitted.

[0129] If the airtightness of the internal space 20 can be ensured, the sealing member 84 or 86 may not be provided. Alternatively, a sealing member may be provided between the back wall 24A (support portion 45) and the fastening member 83. Specifically, the sealing member may be clamped between the head of the fastening member 83 and the seat surface of the support portion 45 in the fastening hole 45i. Similarly, a sealing member may be provided between the back wall 24A (support portion 46) and the fastening member 85. Specifically, the sealing member may be clamped between the head of the fastening member 85 and the seat surface of the support portion 46 in the fastening hole 46i.

[0130] The support mechanism 6A may also omit the connecting member 64. That is, the front ends of the multiple shafts 62a fixed to the block 82 may also be unconnected.

[0131] In the back wall 24A, the receiving hole 45h can also pass through the support portion 45 in the front-rear direction. In this case, the fastening member 71 can be operated from the outside of the container body 2, so the shafts 61a can be replaced individually. In other words, the operator can choose to replace the shafts 61a individually or replace multiple shafts 61a as a whole by replacing the block 81.

[0132] In the back wall 24A, the receiving hole 46h can also pass through the support portion 46 in the front-rear direction. In this case, the fastening member 74 can be operated from the outside of the container body 2, so the shafts 62a can be replaced individually. In other words, the operator can choose to replace the shafts 62a individually or replace multiple shafts 62a as a whole by replacing the block 82.

[0133] (Note)

[0134] [Item 1]

[0135] A panel storage container, comprising:

[0136] The container body defines the internal space for accommodating multiple panels; and

[0137] A support mechanism, disposed within the internal space, supports the plurality of panels, and the support mechanism includes a shaft extending in a front-rear direction.

[0138] The container body includes:

[0139] The back wall is located on the back of the container body; and

[0140] A fixing part secures the shaft to the back wall, and the fixing part includes a fastening member operable from outside the container body.

[0141] [Item 2]

[0142] According to Clause 1, the panel storage container wherein the fastening member secures the rear end of the shaft to the back wall.

[0143] [Item 3]

[0144] According to Clause 2, the panel storage container further includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the rear end of the shaft.

[0145] [Item 4]

[0146] According to clause 1, the panel storage container, wherein the support mechanism includes a plurality of shafts comprising the shaft.

[0147] The fixing part further includes a block that is detachably mounted on the back wall to fix the rear ends of the plurality of shafts.

[0148] The fastening member secures the block to the back wall.

[0149] [Item 5]

[0150] The panel storage container according to clause 4, wherein the support mechanism further includes a connecting member that connects the front ends of the plurality of shafts.

[0151] [Item 6]

[0152] The panel storage container according to clause 4 or clause 5, wherein the fixing part further includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the block.

[0153] [Item 7]

[0154] The panel storage container according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the fixing part further includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the fastening member.

Claims

1. A panel storage container, characterized in that, include: The container body defines the internal space for accommodating multiple panels; as well as A support mechanism, disposed within the internal space, supports the plurality of panels, and the support mechanism includes a shaft extending in a front-rear direction. The container body includes: The back wall is located on the back of the container body; as well as A fixing part secures the shaft to the back wall, and the fixing part includes a fastening member operable from outside the container body.

2. The panel storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastening member secures the rear end of the shaft to the back wall.

3. The panel storage container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing part also includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the rear end of the shaft.

4. The panel storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support mechanism includes multiple shafts containing the shaft. The fixing part further includes a block that is detachably mounted on the back wall and fixes the rear ends of the plurality of shafts. The fastening member secures the block to the back wall.

5. The panel storage container according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support mechanism also includes a connecting member that connects the front ends of the plurality of shafts.

6. The panel storage container according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The fixing part also includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the block.

7. The panel storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The fixing part also includes a sealing member disposed between the back wall and the fastening member.

Images