Panel storage container

Abstract

The panel storage container includes: a container body having an opening and storing a panel; a holding mechanism provided inside the container body and holding the panel; and a cover body that closes the opening. The container body defines an accommodation space for accommodating a panel, and includes a pair of side walls facing each other in a first direction. The holding mechanism includes: a support portion that supports an end portion of the panel in the first direction; and a pressing mechanism that presses the end portion toward the support portion in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In the manufacturing process of glass substrates and other panels for liquid crystal panels, when transferring rectangular panels from the manufacturing apparatus to the manufacturing apparatus of other steps or when temporarily storing panels, a panel storage container for storing multiple panels can be used. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a panel storage container that includes a container body for storing substrates and a cover that blocks the opening of the container body.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Patent No. 3235982

[0004] In this type of panel storage container, both ends of the panel are supported from below by support members. In this case, the panel may sometimes bend due to vibration, etc., and dust may be generated from the end face of the panel. Utility Model Content

[0005] This disclosure describes a panel storage container that can suppress dust generation.

[0006] A panel storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: a container body having an opening for storing a panel; a retaining mechanism disposed inside the container body for retaining the panel; and a lid for closing the opening. The container body defines a receiving space for storing the panel and includes a pair of sidewalls facing each other in a first direction. The retaining mechanism includes: a support portion for supporting an end of the panel in the first direction; and a pressing mechanism for pressing the end toward the support portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0007] In this panel storage container, the end of the panel in a first direction is supported by a support portion and pressed against the support portion in a second direction by a pressing mechanism. Thus, the end of the panel in the first direction is clamped by the support portion and the pressing mechanism in the second direction, thereby restricting the movement of the panel. Therefore, even if vibration is applied to the panel storage container, the panel is not easily affected by the vibration. As a result, dust generation can be suppressed.

[0008] In several embodiments, the pressing mechanism can press the end with the lid closed and release the pressure on the end with the opening open. With the opening open, the panel can be removed from or placed into the panel storage container; with the lid closed, the panel storage container can be transported. This structure suppresses dust generation during transport of the panel storage container and allows for the removal and placement of panels.

[0009] In several embodiments, the pressing mechanism may include: a pressing member for pressing the end; a mounting shaft extending along a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and rotatably mounting the pressing member about the mounting shaft; and a linkage mechanism that rotates the pressing member such that it presses the end when the cover is closed and releases the pressing member from pressing the end when the cover is open. In this case, the pressing member rotates about the mounting shaft in conjunction with the opening and closing of the cover. This suppresses dust generation when transporting the panel storage container without user intervention in the pressing mechanism, and allows for the removal and placement of the panel.

[0010] In several embodiments, the cover can face the panel housed within the container body in a third-party direction with the opening closed. The pressing member may include: a bearing portion receiving a mounting shaft; a pressing plate extending from the bearing portion in a direction intersecting the mounting shaft; and an extension portion extending from the bearing portion in the opposite direction to the pressing plate. The linkage mechanism may include: a connecting member connected to the extension portion; a push-in pin pushed by the cover in a third-party direction when the cover is closed; a conversion mechanism converting movement of the push-in pin in a third-party direction into movement of the connecting member in a second direction; and an elastic member configured to extend and retract in a third-party direction according to the movement of the push-in pin. When the push-in pin is pressed by the cover, the conversion mechanism can move the connecting member so that the pressing plate presses its end toward the support portion in the second direction. In this case, if the push-in pin is pressed in a third-party direction when the cover is closed, the elastic member is compressed, and the connecting member moves so that the pressing plate presses its end toward the support portion in the second direction. On the other hand, when the cover is removed, the push pin is pushed back by the elastic force of the elastic member, and the connecting structure returns to its original position, thus releasing the pressure of the pressing plate on the end. This allows the panel to be removed from the panel storage container. As described above, dust generation during the transport of the panel storage container can be suppressed, and panels can be easily removed and placed in.

[0011] In several embodiments, the conversion mechanism may include: an adjusting member connected to the push-in pin in a manner that allows rotation of the push-in pin as a pivot; and a connecting member connecting the adjusting member to the connecting member. The adjusting member may include: a first end connected to the push-in pin; and a second end connected to the connecting member. When a force is applied to the extension portion of the pressing member by the movement of the connecting member in a second direction, the pressing member will rotate about the mounting axis. At this time, since the extension portion moves in a manner that traces an arc with the mounting axis as a pivot, a force is applied to the connecting member in a direction away from the mounting axis. Therefore, the adjusting member is stretched toward the connecting member in the first direction by the connecting member, and the adjusting member rotates about the push-in pin as a pivot. This allows for smooth rotation of the pressing member.

[0012] According to this disclosure, dust generation can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a panel storage container according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 It means in Figure 1 A perspective view of the components installed on the side wall of the container body.

[0015] Figure 3 It means in Figure 1 A perspective view of the components installed on the side wall of the container body.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The three-dimensional view of the pressing component is shown.

[0017] Figure 5 It is used for Figure 3 A perspective view illustrating the pushing mechanism.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the linkage mechanism shown.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a side view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the open state.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a front view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the open state.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a side view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the state where the cover is closed.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a front view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the state where the cover is closed. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to label the same elements, and repeated descriptions are omitted. In each figure, an XYZ coordinate system is shown. 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; first direction), the Y-axis direction is the front-back direction (depth direction; third direction), and the Z-axis direction is the up-down direction (height direction; second 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.

[0024] Reference Figure 1 A panel storage container according to one embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a panel storage container according to one embodiment. Figure 1 The panel storage container 1 shown is a container for storing multiple panels. The panel storage container 1 conforms to, for example, the standards of the Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI). Examples of panels include glass substrates for liquid crystal panels and panels equipped with electronic components. The panels have a rectangular shape. Examples of panel sizes include 510mm × 515mm and 600mm × 600mm. The number of panels that can be stored in the panel storage container 1 is arbitrary, for example, 6, 12, 16, or 24 panels.

[0025] The panel storage container 1 is used, for example, in a manufacturing apparatus for producing electronic component assemblies. The electronic component assemblies are manufactured, for example, by the following steps: mounting multiple electronic components on a large carrier panel 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 panel in panel form; and cutting out the panel-shaped electronic components individually. The panel storage container 1 is used to transfer panels between these steps.

[0026] The panel storage container 1 includes the container body 2, the lid 3, and a pair of handles 4.

[0027] The container body 2 is a rectangular container with an open front (front surface). In other words, the container body 2 is a front open box type container with an opening 2a on its front surface. The container body 2 houses multiple panels. Specifically, the container body 2 houses multiple panels in a stacked manner with gaps between them in the vertical direction. Panels are removed from or placed into the container body 2 via the opening 2a. Details of the container body 2 will be described below.

[0028] 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 faces the panel housed in the container body 2 in the front-rear direction. The lid 3 includes a lid body 31 and a locking mechanism 32.

[0029] The cover body 31 is the main body of the cover 3. The cover body 31 is a rectangular plate. The cover body 31 is made of metal materials such as aluminum and magnesium alloys. The cover body 31 may also be made of thermoplastic resin such as polycarbonate resin. A keyhole 31h is provided on the front surface of the cover body 31. A key (not shown) is inserted into the keyhole 31h.

[0030] The locking mechanism 32 locks or unlocks the cover 3 by operating a key inserted into the keyhole 31h. The locking mechanism 32 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 disengaged from the locking hole 25h by operating the key, thereby unlocking the cover 3.

[0031] A pair of handles 4 are components used by the conveying device to transport the panel storage container 1. The pair of handles 4 are provided at the left and right ends of the top plate 21, which will be described later. By holding the pair of handles 4 and lifting the panel storage container 1, the conveying device can transport the panel storage container 1.

[0032] The container body 2, lid 3, and handle 4 can also be constructed by assembling multiple parts molded 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, acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers. Alloys of these resins can be used as the molding material.

[0033] 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, salicylate, cyanoacrylate, oxalic acidanilide, and hindered amine UV absorbers can also be added. Glass fibers or carbon fibers, which improve rigidity, can also be selectively added.

[0034] Next, the container body 2 will be described in detail. The container body 2 includes a top plate 21, a bottom plate 22, a pair of side walls 23, a back wall 24, a flange 25, and a pair of track members 27.

[0035] The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, side walls 23, and back wall 24 are rectangular panels. The top plate 21 and bottom plate 22 face each other vertically and are arranged approximately parallel to each other. The pair of side walls 23 face each other horizontally and are arranged approximately parallel to each other. The back wall 24 faces the cover 3 in the front-back direction when the opening 2a is closed by the cover 3. Two adjacent members of the top plate 21, bottom plate 22, pair of side walls 23, and back wall 24 are connected by a frame. The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, pair of side walls 23, and back wall 24 define a receiving space 20 for accommodating multiple panels.

[0036] The top plate 21, bottom plate 22, and side walls 23 are made of metal materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. The back wall 24 is made of a transparent resin material, for example, that allows the receiving space 20 to be viewed from the outside of the container body 2. A portion of the back wall 24 may also be made of a transparent resin material. Examples of transparent resin materials include acrylic resin, polycarbonate, vinyl chloride resin, and cyclic olefin polymers.

[0037] The flange 25 is a rectangular frame that spans 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 the opening 2a. The flange 25 is made of, for example, the resin material described above, or metal materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. Two locking holes 25h are provided on the upper and lower frame portions of the flange 25, arranged separately 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.

[0038] A pair of track members 27 are used to place the panel storage container 1 onto a conveyor or other transport device. Each track member 27 is a plate-shaped member extending in the front-back direction. Each track member 27 is, for example, made of the aforementioned resin material. The pair of track members 27 are located at the left and right ends of the container body 2 below the base plate 22.

[0039] Next, further reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure within the containment space 20 will be described. Figure 2 and Figure 3 It means in Figure 1 A perspective view of the components installed on the side wall of the container body is shown. Furthermore, in Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows a component disposed on one of the side walls 23, while the container body 2 is omitted. The same component is disposed on the other side wall 23.

[0040] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the panel storage container 1 also includes a holding mechanism 6. The holding mechanism 6 is a mechanism for holding the panel. The holding mechanism 6 is disposed inside the container body 2. The holding mechanism 6 includes multiple support parts 61, multiple support parts 62, multiple pillars 63, multiple support bodies 64, and a pair of pushing mechanisms 65.

[0041] Each support portion 61 is used to support the central portion of the panel in the left-right direction. Each support portion 61 includes a main shaft 61a and a plurality of elastic bodies 61b. The main shaft 61a is a columnar (e.g., cylindrical) member extending in the front-back direction. The rear end of the main shaft 61a is fixed to a support column (not shown) provided on the inner surface of the back wall 24. The main shaft 61a is, for example, made of a material with high bending stiffness. Examples of materials for the main shaft 61a include metals such as stainless steel and aluminum, as well as carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0042] The elastomer 61b is an annular (e.g., circular) component disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the main shaft 61a. The elastomer 61b is provided to suppress panel slippage and improve panel positioning accuracy. The elastomer 61b is, for example, made of rubber. Examples of rubber materials include ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), silicone rubber, and fluororubber. Multiple elastomers 61b are arranged at predetermined intervals along the extending direction of the main shaft 61a.

[0043] Each support portion 62 is used to support the two ends of the panel in the left-right direction. Each support portion 62 includes a main shaft 62a, a plurality of elastic bodies 62b, a stop member 62c, and a stop member 62d. The main shaft 62a is a columnar (e.g., cylindrical) member extending in the front-back direction. The rear end of the main shaft 62a is fixed to a support column (not shown) provided on the inner surface of the back wall 24. The main shaft 62a is made of, for example, a material with high bending rigidity. Examples of materials for the main shaft 62a include metals such as stainless steel and aluminum, as well as carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The length of the main shaft 62a in the front-back direction is slightly longer than the length of the panel in the front-back direction, and longer than the length of the main shaft 61a in the front-back direction.

[0044] The elastomer 62b is an annular (e.g., circular) component disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the main shaft 62a. The elastomer 62b is provided to suppress panel slippage and improve panel positioning accuracy. The constituent materials and arrangement of the elastomer 62b are the same as those of the elastomer 61b, therefore detailed description is omitted.

[0045] 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 is made of, for example, the resin material described above. Stop 62c is disposed at the front end of the spindle 62a. Stop 62d is a component used to determine the position of the rear end of the panel. Stop 62d is made of, for example, the resin material described above. Stop 62d is disposed at the rear end of the spindle 62a. Stop 62d has a block-shaped form. A through hole is provided in stop 62d for the spindle 62a to pass through in the front-rear direction.

[0046] The number of support portions 61 and 62 varies depending on the number of panels that can be stored in the panel storage container 1. In this embodiment, the holding mechanism 6 includes one support portion 61 and two support portions 62 for each panel. In other words, a storage section for storing one panel is formed by one support portion 61 and two support portions 62. The one support portion 61 and the two support portions 62 are arranged in a left-right direction. A support portion 61 is disposed between the two support portions 62.

[0047] Each support column 63 is a component for mounting the handle 4 and the support body 64. Each support column 63 is a columnar member extending vertically from the top plate 21 across the bottom plate 22. Each support column 63 is made of metal materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. Each support column 63 is provided on the inner surface of the side wall 23. In this embodiment, three support columns 63 are provided on each side wall 23. The three support columns 63 are arranged in the front-back direction and are configured to be substantially parallel to each other.

[0048] Each support 64 is a component used to hold (support) the main shaft 62a and support the ends of the panel in the left-right direction. Each support 64 is a columnar member extending vertically across all the receiving sections. The front surface of the support 64 abuts against the rear surface of the support column 63, and the support 64 is fixed to the support column 63 by screws. Therefore, in this embodiment, three supports 64 are provided on each side wall 23. The three supports 64 are arranged in the front-back direction and are configured to be substantially parallel to each other.

[0049] Each support 64 includes a number of mounting portions 64a equal to the number of panels that can be stored in the panel storage container 1. Each mounting portion 64a is a portion that mounts the end of the panel in the left-right direction and holds the main shaft 62a. Each mounting portion 64a protrudes towards the receiving space 20 in the left-right direction. Each mounting portion 64a is provided with an insertion hole that extends through the mounting portion 64a in the front-back direction, and the main shaft 62a is inserted into the insertion hole.

[0050] A pair of pressing mechanisms 65 press the left and right ends of the panel toward the support 62 in the vertical direction. The left pressing mechanism 65 presses the left end of the panel when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, and releases the pressure on the left end when the opening 2a is open. The right pressing mechanism 65 presses the right end of the panel when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, and releases the pressure on the right end when the opening 2a is open.

[0051] Next, refer to Figures 3-6 The pushing mechanism 65 is described in detail. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The three-dimensional view of the pressing component is shown. Figure 5 It is used for Figure 3 A perspective view illustrating the pushing mechanism. Figure 6 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the linkage mechanism is shown. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The figure shows the pushing mechanism 65 with opening 2a open. Figure 5 The diagram shows a portion of the pushing mechanism 65 in the state where the cover 3 closes the opening 2a; the support 63 is omitted from the illustration. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the pressing mechanism 65 includes multiple pressing components 51, a mounting shaft 52, and a linkage mechanism 53.

[0052] Each pressing member 51 is a member for pressing the end of the panel in the left-right direction. Each pressing member 51 is a plate-shaped member extending in the front-back direction. Each pressing member 51 is provided corresponding to a support portion 62. In this embodiment, the pushing mechanism 65 includes two pressing members 51 arranged in the front-back direction for each support portion 62. The pressing members 51 are disposed between two adjacent supports 64 in the front-back direction.

[0053] like Figure 4As shown, the pressing member 51 includes a pressing plate 51a, two bearing portions 51b, and an extension portion 51c. The pressing plate 51a is a plate-shaped portion extending in the front-rear direction. The pressing plate 51a extends from the bearing portions 51b in a direction intersecting (orthogonal to) the mounting shaft 52. The front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a is bent downward, and the pressing plate 51a has an L-shaped shape when viewed from the front. Each bearing portion 51b is a portion that receives the mounting shaft 52. The two bearing portions 51b are provided at the front and rear ends of the base end of the pressing plate 51a. Each bearing portion 51b is provided with a through hole 51e that extends through the bearing portion 51b in the front-rear direction. The diameter of the through hole 51e is the same as or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the mounting shaft 52.

[0054] An extension portion 51c extends from one of the bearing portions 51b in the opposite direction to the pressing plate 51a. A through hole 51f is provided in the extension portion 51c, extending through it in the front-to-back direction. The extension portion 51c of the front pressing member 51 is connected to the connecting member 54 via a pin. The diameter of the through hole 51f is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pin; therefore, the pressing member 51 is connected to the connecting member 54 in a manner that allows rotation around the pin as a center.

[0055] like Figure 5 As shown, the mounting shaft 52 is a component that allows the pressing member 51 to be rotatably mounted on the support body 64 about the mounting shaft 52 as its axis. The mounting shaft 52 extends in the front-to-back direction. The mounting shaft 52 extends across the three supports 64 arranged in the front-to-back direction. The mounting shaft 52 is inserted into the mounting holes provided in each support body 64, with both ends of the mounting shaft 52 embedded in the mounting holes provided in the front and rear supports 64. The diameter of the mounting hole in each support body 64 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the mounting shaft 52. Thus, the mounting shaft 52 is mounted on each support body 64 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the axis of the mounting shaft 52.

[0056] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the linkage mechanism 53 is a mechanism that rotates each pressing member 51 according to the opening and closing of the cover 3. Specifically, the linkage mechanism 53 presses the end of the panel in the left-right direction when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, and releases the pressure on the end when the opening 2a is open, thereby rotating the pressing member 51. The linkage mechanism 53 includes a connecting member 54, a push pin 55, a retaining member 56, an elastic member 57, and a conversion mechanism 58.

[0057] The connecting member 54 is a component that connects multiple pressing members 51. The connecting member 54 has a rod-shaped form that extends in the vertical direction. As described above, the connecting member 54 is connected to the extension portion 51c of each pressing member 51 by a pin.

[0058] The push-in pin 55 is a component that can move forward and backward in the front-back direction according to the opening and closing of the cover 3. The push-in pin 55 has a cylindrical shape that extends in the front-back direction. The push-in pin 55 protrudes forward from the front end (stop 62c) of the support part 62, and is configured such that the push-in pin 55 is pushed backward by the cover 3 when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a. The push-in pin 55 has a connection with the back surface 3a of the cover 3 (see reference) when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a. Figure 9 ) The front end 55a of the abutment.

[0059] The retaining member 56 is a member that holds the push-in pin 55 in a manner that allows it to move forward and backward in the front-back direction. The retaining member 56 includes a columnar portion 56a, an extension portion 56b, and a fixing portion 56c. The columnar portion 56a has a columnar shape that extends in the front-back direction. An insertion hole 56h is provided in the columnar portion 56a, which extends through the columnar portion 56a in the front-back direction. The diameter of the insertion hole 56h is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the push-in pin 55. The push-in pin 55 is inserted into the insertion hole 56h in a manner that allows it to move forward and backward in the front-back direction. The front end 55a of the push-in pin 55 protrudes forward from the front surface of the columnar portion 56a.

[0060] The extension 56b is a portion that extends rearward from the columnar portion 56a. In this embodiment, the extension 56b has a plate-like shape extending rearward from the inner periphery of the rear surface of the columnar portion 56a, and is separated from the push-in pin 55 in the left-right direction. The extension 56b defines a space between the support column 63 and the columnar portion 56a for arranging the adjusting member 81 and the elastic member 57. The fixing portion 56c is a portion for fixing the retaining member 56 to the support column 63. The fixing portion 56c is provided at the rear end of the extension 56b. The retaining member 56 is fixed to the support column 63 by inserting a fastening member such as a screw into the through hole provided in the fixing portion 56c and screwing it into the support column 63.

[0061] The elastic member 57 is provided in a manner that allows it to extend and retract in the front-rear direction. The elastic member 57 is held in the front-rear direction by the adjusting member 81 and the front support 63. In this embodiment, the elastic member 57 is a coil spring.

[0062] The conversion mechanism 58 converts the forward-backward movement of the push-in pin 55 into the vertical movement of the connecting member 54. Specifically, when the push-in pin 55 moves backward, the conversion mechanism 58 causes the connecting member 54 to move upward. When the push-in pin 55 moves forward, the conversion mechanism 58 causes the connecting member 54 to move downward. The conversion mechanism 58 includes an adjusting member 81 and a connecting member 82.

[0063] Adjusting member 81 is a component used to facilitate the smooth rotation of pressing member 51. Adjusting member 81 is rotatably connected to push pin 55. Adjusting member 81 has a block-shaped form extending in the left-right direction. Adjusting member 81 has two ends in the left-right direction, namely end 81a (first end) and end 81b (second end).

[0064] End 81a is connected to push-in pin 55. Specifically, a mounting hole 81c is provided on the front surface of end 81a of adjusting member 81. The mounting hole 81c is recessed rearward from the front surface of adjusting member 81. The base end of push-in pin 55 is inserted into mounting hole 81c. The diameter of mounting hole 81c is slightly larger than the outer diameter of push-in pin 55. Thus, adjusting member 81 is mounted to push-in pin 55 in a manner that allows push-in pin 55 to rotate as an axis. End 81b is connected to connecting member 82.

[0065] The connecting member 82 is a member that connects the connecting member 54 and the adjusting member 81. The connecting member 82 has a plate-like shape extending in one direction. The connecting member 82 is inclined upwards as it moves rearwards. The connecting member 82 has two ends, namely end 82a, in its extending direction (see reference). Figure 7 ) and end 82b (refer to) Figure 7 End 82a is mounted to end 81b (front end) of adjusting member 81 via a ball joint. End 82b is mounted to connecting member 54 via a ball joint.

[0066] Next, refer to Figures 7-10 The operation of the pushing mechanism 65 is explained. Figure 7 This is a side view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the open state. Figure 8 This is a front view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the open state. Figure 9 This is a side view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the state where the cover is closed. Figure 10 This is a front view used to illustrate the pushing mechanism in the state where the cover is closed.

[0067] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, with opening 2a open, each pressing member 51 is tilted upwards in the left-right direction as it moves away from the sidewall 23. Therefore, a space is formed between the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a and the main shaft 62a. Thus, when the robot moves the panel P (refer to...) Figure 10When the device is moved into the receiving space 20 and placed in any of the storage sections, interference between the pressing plate 51a and the panel P should be avoided. At this time, the front end 55a of the push pin 55 protrudes forward in the front-rear direction of the back surface 3a of the cover 3 (i.e., the sealing surface of the cover 3) when the opening 2a of the cover 3 is closed. The adjusting member 81 does not push the elastic member 57, so no elastic force is generated in the elastic member 57. This state of the pushing mechanism 65 is called the initial state.

[0068] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, the front end 55a of the push-in pin 55 is pushed rearward by the back end 3a of the cover 3. This causes the adjusting member 81 to move rearward, and the elastic member 57, sandwiched between the adjusting member 81 and the support column 63, is compressed rearward by the adjusting member 81. At this time, as the adjusting member 81 moves, the end 82a of the connecting member 82 moves rearward. The connecting member 54, connected to the end 82b, can move in the vertical direction, therefore the connecting member 54 moves upward together with the end 82b.

[0069] Since each pressing member 51 can rotate about the mounting shaft 52, when an upward force is applied to the extension portion 51c of each pressing member 51 by the rising of the connecting member 54, the pressing member 51 will rotate about the mounting shaft 52 in such a way that the extension portion 51c rises and the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a falls. At this time, since the extension portion 51c moves in a way that traces an arc with the mounting shaft 52 as the axis, a force is applied to the connecting member 54 in a direction away from the mounting shaft 52. Therefore, the front end of the adjusting member 81 is stretched towards the connecting member 82 in the left-right direction by the connecting member 82, the adjusting member 81 rotates about the push-in pin 55, and the front end of the adjusting member 81 moves away from the push-in pin 55 in the left-right direction.

[0070] As a result, the pressing member 51 rotates about the mounting shaft 52, the extension part 51c and the connecting member 54 rise together, and the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a descends downward. Through the above operation, the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a presses the upper surface Pa of the panel P downward at the end of the panel P in the left-right direction. At the end of the panel P in the left-right direction, the lower surface Pb of the panel P is supported by the support part 62 (the mounting part 64a). Therefore, the end of the panel P in the left-right direction is held in the up-down direction by the pressing member 51 and the support part 62.

[0071] When the cover 3 is removed from the container body 2 and the opening 2a is opened, the adjusting member 81 is pushed back forward by the elastic force of the elastic member 57, and the front end 55a of the push-in pin 55 returns to its original position. As the adjusting member 81 moves, the end 82a of the connecting member 82 moves forward, and the connecting structural member 54 moves downward together with the end 82b.

[0072] Then, when a downward force is applied to the extension portion 51c of each pressing member 51 by the descent of the connecting member 54, the pressing member 51 will rotate about the mounting shaft 52 in such a way that the extension portion 51c descends and the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a rises. At this time, since the extension portion 51c moves in a way that traces an arc with the mounting shaft 52 as the axis, a force is applied to the connecting member 54 in the direction toward the mounting shaft 52. Therefore, the front end of the adjusting member 81 is pushed into the push-in pin 55 in the left-right direction by the connecting member 82, the adjusting member 81 rotates about the push-in pin 55, and the front end of the adjusting member 81 approaches the push-in pin 55 in the left-right direction.

[0073] As a result, the pressing member 51 rotates around the mounting shaft 52, the extension part 51c and the connecting member 54 descend together, and the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a rises. Through the above operation, the pushing mechanism 65 returns to the initial state, so the front end 51d of the pressing plate 51a moves away from the upper surface Pa of the panel P, thereby releasing the pressure on the left and right ends of the panel P. As a result, the panel P is in a state where it can be removed.

[0074] In the panel storage container 1 described above, the left and right ends of panel P are supported by support portion 62 and pressed downwards by pushing mechanism 65 toward support portion 62 (main shaft 62a). Thus, the left and right ends of panel P are clamped in the vertical direction by support portion 62 and pushing mechanism 65, thereby restricting the movement of panel P. Therefore, even if vibration is applied to panel storage container 1, panel P is not easily affected by the vibration. As a result, dust generation can be suppressed.

[0075] The panel P can be removed from or placed into the panel storage container 1 with the opening 2a open, and the panel storage container 1 can be transported with the cover 3 closing the opening 2a. The pressing member 51 presses the left and right ends of the panel P with the cover 3 closing the opening 2a, and releases the pressure on the left and right ends of the panel P with the opening 2a open. Therefore, dust generation during transport of the panel storage container 1 can be suppressed, and the panel P can be removed and placed in.

[0076] The linkage mechanism 53 causes the pressing member 51 to rotate in such a way that when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, the pressing member 51 presses against the end of the panel P in the left-right direction, and when the opening 2a is open, the pressing member 51 releases the pressure on the end of the panel P in the left-right direction. Therefore, the pressing member 51 rotates about the mounting shaft 52 in a linkage with the opening and closing of the cover 3. As a result, dust generation when transporting the panel storage container 1 can be suppressed without the user operating the pushing mechanism 65, and the panel P can be taken out and put in.

[0077] The elastic member 57 is configured to extend and retract in the front-rear direction according to the movement of the push-in pin 55 in the front-rear direction. When the push-in pin 55 is pushed by the cover 3, the conversion mechanism 58 moves the connecting member 54 so that the pressing plate 51a presses the left-right end of the panel P downward toward the support 62. Therefore, if the push-in pin 55 is pushed backward when the cover 3 closes the opening 2a, the elastic member 57 is compressed, and the connecting member 54 moves so that the pressing plate 51a presses the left-right end of the panel P downward toward the support 62. On the other hand, when the cover 3 is removed from the container body 2, the push-in pin 55 is pushed back by the elastic force of the elastic member 57, and the connecting member 54 returns to its original position. Therefore, the pressing plate 51a releases the pressure on the left-right end of the panel P. As a result, the panel P can be removed from the panel storage container 1. As described above, dust generation during the transport of the panel storage container 1 can be suppressed, and the panel P can be removed and placed in.

[0078] When an upward force is applied to the extension portion 51c of the pressing member 51 by the rising of the connecting member 54, the pressing member 51 will rotate about the mounting shaft 52. At this time, since the extension portion 51c moves in an arc about the mounting shaft 52, a force is applied to the connecting member 54 in a direction away from the mounting shaft 52. Therefore, the adjusting member 81 is stretched towards the connecting member 82 in the left-right direction by the connecting member 82, and the adjusting member 81 rotates about the push-in pin 55. Similarly, when a downward force is applied to the extension portion 51c of the pressing member 51 by the falling of the connecting member 54, the extension portion 51c moves in an arc about the mounting shaft 52, and a force is applied to the connecting member 54 in a direction towards the mounting shaft 52. Therefore, the adjusting member 81 is pushed towards the push-in pin 55 in the left-right direction by the connecting member 82, and the adjusting member 81 rotates about the push-in pin 55. The above operations can make the rotation of the pressing component 51 smoother.

[0079] Furthermore, the panel storage container disclosed herein is not limited to the described embodiment.

[0080] The pressing mechanism 65 may also omit the linkage mechanism 53. In this case, the user can also manually rotate the pressing member 51 about the mounting shaft 52.

[0081] The conversion mechanism 58 may also be configured to allow the connecting member 82 to flex to the extent that it enables the pressing member 51 to rotate. In this case, the conversion mechanism 58 may also include a member fixed to the push-in pin 55 instead of the adjusting member 81.

[0082] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0083] 1. Panel storage container 2. Container body

[0084] 2a Opening 3 Cover

[0085] 6 maintenance mechanisms, 20 containment spaces

[0086] 23 sidewalls 51 pressing components

[0087] 51a Press plate 51b Bearing section

[0088] 51c extension setting unit 51d front end

[0089] 52 Mounting shaft 53 Linkage mechanism

[0090] 54 connecting structural components, 55 push-in pin

[0091] 55a front end 56 retaining member

[0092] 57 Elastic Components 58 Conversion Mechanisms

[0093] 62 Support sections 63 Columns

[0094] 65 Pushing mechanism 81 Adjusting component

[0095] 81a End (First End) 81b End (Second End)

[0096] 82 Connecting component P panel

Claims

1. A panel storage container, characterized in that, include: The container body has an opening and a storage panel; A retaining mechanism, disposed inside the container body, holds the panel; and The cover seals the opening. The container body defines a receiving space for accommodating the panel and includes a pair of sidewalls facing each other in a first direction. The retaining mechanism includes: a support portion for supporting the end of the panel in the first direction; And a pushing mechanism that presses the end toward the support in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The pushing mechanism presses the end when the cover closes the opening, and releases the pressure on the end when the opening is open.

2. The panel storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism includes: A pressing member is used to press the end; A mounting shaft extends along a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and the pressing member is rotatably mounted about the mounting shaft; and A linkage mechanism that allows the pressing member to rotate in such a way that it presses the end when the cover closes the opening, and releases the pressing member from pressing the end when the opening is open.

3. The panel storage container according to claim 2, characterized in that, With the opening closed, the cover faces the panel housed within the container body in the third direction. The pressing component includes: The bearing section receives the mounting shaft; A pressing plate extends from the bearing portion in a direction intersecting the mounting shaft; and The extension section extends from the bearing section in the direction opposite to the pressing plate. The linkage mechanism includes: A connecting structural component is connected to the extended portion; The push-in pin is pushed upward by the cover body in the state where the opening is closed by the cover body; A conversion mechanism that converts the movement of the push-in pin in the third direction into movement of the connecting member in the second direction; and The elastic member is configured to extend and retract in the third-party direction in response to the movement of the push pin in the third-party direction. When the push-in pin is pressed by the cover, the conversion mechanism moves the connecting member so that the pressing plate presses the end toward the support in the second direction.

4. The panel storage container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The conversion mechanism includes: an adjusting member connected to the push-in pin in a manner that allows the push-in pin to rotate around its axis; and a connecting member connecting the adjusting member to the connecting member. The adjusting member includes: a first end connected to the push-in pin; and a second end connected to the connecting member.

Images