Transfer device and a cutting blade or dressing board changing method

Abstract

Transfer device (100) for a cutting device (1), wherein the cutting device (1) has a machining unit (2) which has at least one clamping table (10) for holding a workpiece (200), a transfer means (80) for feeding the workpiece (200) to the machining unit (2) and a cutting blade changing means (3) for changing a cutting blade (21); wherein the transfer device (100) is set up for use in transferring a new cutting blade (21) as a replacement component to the machining unit (2); the transfer device (100) has a plurality of receiving sections (101), each configured to receive the new cutting blade (21) and the cutting blade (21) replaced by the cutting blade changing means (3); and the transfer device (100) is set up to be transferred by the transfer means (80) to transfer the workpiece (200).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AREA OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a transfer device and a cutting blade or dressing board changing method. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED STATE OF THE ART

[0002] When cutting a workpiece, such as a semiconductor wafer, a cutting device including a cutting blade is used as the processing equipment (see, for example, the Japanese patent JP 2007-208 114 A). In the aforementioned cutting device, the cutting blade must be automatically fed as a consumable component to ensure continuous operation.

[0003] Accordingly, the cutting device described in the disclosed Japanese patent number JP 2007-208 114 A has a blade stand that holds a plurality of new cutting blades and a blade-changing mechanism that replaces the old cutting blade attached to a cutting unit with one of the plurality of cutting blades held by the blade stand.

[0004] JP 2014- 8 712 A relates to a tip holder housing that accommodates a tip holder comprising a shaft section, a pair of flat surfaces formed parallel to the shaft center of the shaft section, a notched groove formed parallel to the flat surfaces, a disc tip attached to the notched groove, a code provided on one of the two flat surfaces, and a sliding groove formed on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft section. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In the cutting device described in the Japanese patent number JP 2007-208 114 A, the old cutting blade, removed from the cutting unit by the blade-changing mechanism, is held by the blade holder, and this old cutting blade, held by the blade holder, is manually replaced by an operator with the new cutting blade. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade in this cutting device tends to increase.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a transfer device and a cutting blade or dressing board changing method that reduces the number of steps required to replace a cutting blade or dressing board.

[0007] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a cutting device comprising a machining unit having at least one clamping table for holding a workpiece, a transfer means which feeds the workpiece to the machining unit, and a cutting blade exchange means which changes a cutting blade, provides a transfer device for use in transferring a new cutting blade as a replacement component to the machining unit. The transfer device has a plurality of receiving sections, each configured to receive the new cutting blade and the cutting blade replaced by the cutting blade exchange means. The transfer device is configured to be transferred by the transfer means which transfers the workpiece.

[0008] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a cutting device comprising a machining unit having at least one clamping table for holding a workpiece, a transfer means for feeding the workpiece to the machining unit, and a cutting blade changing means for replacing a cutting blade, provides a cutting blade changing method using a transfer device having a plurality of receiving sections, each configured to receive a new cutting blade as a replacement component and the cutting blade replaced by the cutting blade changing means. The cutting blade changing method includes a transfer step involving moving the transfer device, previously stored in a cassette, to the machining unit using the transfer means in the state where the new cutting blade is in one of the receiving sections of the transfer device.is recorded; after executing the transfer step, a transfer device holding step with holding the transfer device above the clamping table by using a transfer device holding device; after executing the transfer device holding step, a removal step with removing the cutting blade from the machining unit by using the cutting blade changing device and next placing the removed cutting blade in another of the receiving sections of the transfer device; after executing the removal step, an assembly step with removing the new cutting blade from one of the receiving sections of the transfer device by using the cutting blade changing device and next attaching the new cutting blade to the machining unit; and after executing the assembly step, a return step with returning the transfer device from the machining unit to the cassette byUsing the transfer device in the state in which the cutting blade removed from the processing unit is received in another of the receiving sections of the transfer device.

[0009] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a cutting device comprising a machining unit having at least one clamping table for holding a workpiece, a transfer means which feeds the workpiece to the machining unit, and a change means which changes a dressing board, provides a transfer device for use in transferring a new dressing board as a replacement component to the machining unit. The transfer device has a plurality of receiving sections, each configured to receive the new dressing board and the dressing board replaced by the change means. The transfer device is configured to be transferred by the transfer means which transfers the workpiece.

[0010] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a cutting device comprising a machining unit having at least one clamping table for holding a workpiece, a transfer means which feeds the workpiece to the machining unit, and a change means which replaces a dressing board, provides a dressing board change method using a transfer device having a plurality of receiving sections, each configured to receive a new dressing board as a replacement component and the dressing board replaced by the change means. The dressing board change method includes a transfer step involving moving the transfer device, previously stored in a cassette, to the machining unit using the transfer means in the state in which the new dressing board is received in one of the receiving sections of the transfer device.After executing the transfer step, a transfer device holding step is performed, involving holding the transfer device above the clamping table using a transfer device holding device; after executing the transfer device holding step, a removal step is performed, involving removing the dressing board from the machining unit using the changing device and then placing the removed dressing board in another of the receiving sections of the transfer device; after executing the removal step, an assembly step is performed, involving removing the new dressing board from one of the receiving sections of the transfer device using the changing device and then attaching the new dressing board to the machining unit;and after the assembly step has been carried out, a return step with a return of the transfer device from the machining unit to the cassette by using the transfer means in the state in which the dressing board removed from the machining unit is received in another of the receiving sections of the transfer device.

[0011] The present invention can produce the effect of reducing the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade or the planing board.

[0012] The above and other tasks, features and advantages of the present invention and the manner of its implementation will become clearer by studying the following description and attached claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show some preferred embodiments of the invention, and the invention itself will be best understood by this. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating the construction of a cutting device for performing a cutting blade change procedure in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a through the in Fig. 1 Cutting device shown for machining the workpiece; Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a significant part of a clamping table that belongs to the one shown in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to; Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective exploded view of a cutting unit, which belongs to the one shown in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to; Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view depicting a cassette that can be placed on a cassette lift, which is part of the one shown in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to; Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view representing an intermediate placement unit, which is one of the ones in Fig. The transfer unit belonging to the cutting device shown in section 1 is formed; Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view representing a transfer arm, which corresponds to the one in Fig. The transfer unit belonging to the cutting device shown in section 1 is formed; Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the construction of a blade changing unit, which is part of the one described in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to; Fig. 9 is a sectional view of a nut holder, which is part of the one described in Fig. The blade change unit shown in section 8 belongs to it; Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the construction of a transfer device in accordance with the first preferred embodiment; Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a section of the photograph taken in Fig. 10 represents the transfer device shown; Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view depicting a state in which a cutting blade is in the Fig. The recording section shown in section 11 is recorded; Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective view depicting a state in which a multitude of cutting blades are being received in a multitude of receiving sections of the transfer device, which is located in Fig. 10 is shown; Fig. 14 is a perspective view, which shows a way of storing the in Fig. 13 represents the transfer device shown in the cassette; Fig. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the first preferred embodiment; Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the transfer device is during a transfer step of the process. Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 has been removed from the cassette and then placed on a pair of rails; Fig. 17 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the transfer device, removed from the cassette, is during the transfer step of the in Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in section 15 is held under negative pressure by the transfer arm; Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the transfer device is in position during a transfer device holding step of the process described in Figure 18. Fig. The cutting blade changing process shown in 15 is held in position above the clamping table by a multitude of transfer device holding elements; Fig. Figure 19 is a perspective view depicting a state in which a fastening nut is located during a removal step of the in Fig. The cutting blade replacement procedure shown in section 15 has been removed; Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a state in which the cutting blade to be replaced has been removed during the removal step; Fig. Figure 21 is a perspective view showing a state in which the removed cutting blade has been received during the removal step by an empty of all receiving sections of the transfer device; Fig. 22 is a perspective view depicting a state in which a new cutting blade is present during an assembly step of the in Fig. The cutting blade changing procedure shown in 15 is held by a blade clamping device under negative pressure; Fig. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing a state in which the new cutting blade held by the blade clamping device is just before being mounted on a blade holding element of the cutting unit during the assembly step; Fig. Figure 24 is a perspective view showing a state in which the fastening nut held by the nut holder is just about to be attached to the blade retaining element during the assembly step; Fig. 25 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the transfer device positioned above the clamping device is during a return step of the Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 is held by the transfer arm under negative pressure; Fig. Figure 26 is a perspective view showing a state in which the transfer rail placed on the rails is about to be stored in the cassette during the return step; Fig. Figure 27 is an enlarged sectional view of an essential part of a transfer device in accordance with a modification of the first preferred embodiment; Fig. Figure 28 is a perspective view of an essential part of a cutting device for performing a cutting blade change procedure in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. Figure 29 is a perspective view of a transfer device for use during the execution of the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the second preferred embodiment; Fig. Figure 30 is a top view showing the construction of a manufacturing apparatus including a plurality of cutting devices for carrying out a cutting blade change process in accordance with a first modification of the first and second preferred embodiments; Fig. Figure 31 is a side view showing the construction of a cutting device and its surrounding equipment for carrying out a cutting blade change procedure in accordance with a second modification of the first and second preferred embodiments; Fig. Figure 32 is a perspective view showing an essential part of a clamping table in a cutting device for performing a cutting blade change procedure in accordance with a third modification of the first and second preferred embodiments; Fig. 33 is one of the Fig. 32. Similar perspective view showing a state in which the transfer device is held against the clamping table by negative pressure; and Fig. Figure 34 is a perspective view showing the construction of a cassette elevator in a cutting device for performing a cutting blade change procedure in accordance with a fourth modification of the first and second preferred embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0013] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to these preferred embodiments. Furthermore, the components used in these preferred embodiments may include those that a person skilled in the art would readily assume or that are essentially the same elements known from the prior art. Moreover, the embodiments described below can be combined in a suitable manner. In addition, the embodiments can be omitted, replaced, or modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. First preferred embodiment

[0014] A transfer device and a cutting blade changing method in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the construction of a cutting device for performing the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the first preferred embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a through the in Fig. 1. Cutting device shown for the workpiece being machined. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a significant part of a clamping table that belongs to the one shown in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective exploded view of a cutting unit, which belongs to the one shown in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a cassette to be placed on a cassette lift, which belongs to the one in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view representing an intermediate placement unit, which forms a transfer unit that leads to the one in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a transfer arm forming the transfer unit, which corresponds to the one in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the construction of a blade changing unit, which is part of the one described in Fig. The cutting device shown in section 1 belongs to this. Fig. 9 is a sectional view of a nut holder, which is part of the one described in Fig. The blade change unit shown in section 8 belongs to this. Cutting device

[0015] The cutting blade changing method in accordance with the first preferred embodiment is performed by a Fig. The cutting device 1 shown is designed. The cutting device 1 is a device for cutting (machining) a material in Fig. 2. The workpiece 200 shown in Figure 2. In the first preferred embodiment, the workpiece 200 is a disk-shaped wafer, such as a semiconductor wafer or a wafer for optical components, wherein the wafer is formed as a base material, for example, from silicon, sapphire, or gallium arsenide. The workpiece 200 has a front side 201 and a back side 204. A plurality of intersecting dividing lines 202 are formed on the front side 201 of the workpiece 200 in order to define a plurality of separate areas, in each of which a plurality of components 203 are formed.

[0016] As a variation, the workpiece 200 can be a so-called TAIKO (Registered Trademark) wafer, which has a thin central section and a thick outer section. Furthermore, instead of a disk-shaped wafer, the workpiece 200 can be a rectangular packing substrate with a plurality of resin-sealed components. The workpiece 200 can also be, for example, a ceramic substrate, an iron substrate, or a substrate containing nickel and / or iron. In the first preferred embodiment, the rear side 204 of the workpiece 200 is attached to the central section of an adhesive strip 210, and an annular frame 211 is mounted on the circumferential section of the adhesive strip 210. Consequently, the workpiece 200 is supported on the annular frame 211 via the adhesive strip 210.

[0017] The in Fig. The cutting device 1 shown is a device for cutting (machining) the workpiece 200 along the parting lines 202 by using a cutting blade 21 in the state in which the workpiece 200 is held on a clamping table 10. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the cutting device 1 includes a machining unit 2 for cutting the workpiece 200, a blade changing unit 3 as a cutting blade changing means for changing the cutting blade 21 as a consumable component, and a control unit 4. The machining unit 2 includes the clamping table 10 with a holding surface 11 for holding the workpiece 200 by means of a vacuum, a pair of cutting units 20, each comprising the cutting blade 21 for cutting the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10, the cutting blade 21 being mounted on a spindle 23, and a pair of imaging units 30 for imaging the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10.

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the cutting device 1 further includes an X-motion unit (not shown) for moving (feeding) the clamping table 10 in the X-direction, represented by an arrow X, where the X-direction is parallel to a horizontal direction; a pair of Y-motion units 40 for moving (advancing or segmenting) the pair of cutting units 20 in the Y-direction, represented by an arrow Y, where the Y-direction is parallel to a horizontal direction and perpendicular to the X-direction; and a pair of Z-motion units 50 for moving (feeding) the pair of cutting units 20 in the Z-direction, represented by an arrow Z, where the Z-direction is parallel to a vertical direction that is perpendicular to both the X-direction and the Y-direction. Consequently, the cutting device 1 is a twin-spindle cut-off saw or a so-called double-face cutting device, which has the two cutting units 20.

[0019] The clamping table 10 is a disc-shaped element, and the holding surface 11 for the workpiece 200 is, for example, made of a porous ceramic. The clamping table 10 is movable in the X-direction by the X-motion unit between a machining area 91, defined below the cutting units 20, and a ready area 92, which is spaced apart from the position below the cutting units 20. This means that the workpiece 200, which is held on the clamping table 10, is cut in the machining area 91, and the workpiece 200 is loaded onto the clamping table 10 in the ready area 92 before cutting and removed from the clamping table 10 after cutting in the ready area 92. The clamping table 10 is also rotatable about its axis parallel to the Z-direction by a rotary drive source (not shown).The clamping table 10 is connected to a vacuum source (not shown) so that the workpiece 200, as in . Fig. Figure 3 shows that the workpiece can be held by a vacuum applied by the vacuum source on the holding surface 11. In the first preferred embodiment, the back side 204 of the workpiece 200 is drawn onto the holding surface 11 of the clamping table 10 via the adhesive strip 210. As shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 3 shows a plurality of clamps 12 for clamping the ring-shaped frame 211 around the clamping table 10. Fig. The components 203 formed on the front 201 of the workpiece 200 are not shown.

[0020] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, each clamp 12 includes a body section 13 for attaching the annular frame 211 to it and a clamping element 14 for clamping the annular frame 211 in conjunction with the body section 13. The clamping element 14 is rotatable about a horizontal axis between a clamping position in which the annular frame 211 attached to the body section 13 is clamped by the clamping element 14, and an unclamped position in which the clamped state of the annular frame 211 is as shown in Figure 3. Fig. Figure 3 shows that the clamping element 14 is removed to be spaced away from the body section 13. The clamping element 14 is rotatable between the clamping position and the unclamped position outside the outer circumference of the clamping table 10. In the unclamped position, the clamping element 14 allows the workpiece 200 to be attached to the holding surface 11 and also allows the workpiece 200 to be removed from the holding surface 11 without contact between the clamping element 14 and the annular frame 211. In the first preferred embodiment, the clamping element 14 is driven in the direction of rotation by a drive source, such as a pneumatic cylinder, to assume either the clamped position or the unclamped position.

[0021] Each clamping element 14 is provided with a transfer device retaining element 15 as a transfer device retaining means. The transfer device retaining means 15 is constructed with a flat section 16 and a stepped section 17, which projects in an integrated manner from the flat section 16. In the clamped position, the flat section 16 is attached to the upper surface of each clamping element 14. In this position, the flat section 16 has a flat upper surface for attaching a transfer device as described herein. Furthermore, in this position, the stepped section 17 preferably has an inner surface along the outer circumference of the annular frame 211. As described later, the inner surface of the stepped section 17 is configured to bear against the outer circumference of the transfer device.

[0022] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, each cutting unit 20 is a cutting device comprising the cutting blade 21 for cutting the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10, the cutting blade 21 being detachably mounted on the spindle 23. Each cutting unit 20 is movable relative to the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10 in the Y-direction by the corresponding Y-motion unit 40 and is also movable in the Z-direction by the corresponding Z-motion unit 50.

[0023] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a double-column support frame 5 is provided on the upper surface of a base housing 6, standing upright on it. The support frame 5 is constructed with a pair of columns 5-1 and 5-2 projecting from the upper surface of the base housing 6 and a horizontal beam 5-3 connecting the upper ends of the columns 5-1 and 5-2. One of the two cutting units 20 is supported on column 5-1 by the corresponding Y-axis motion unit 40 and the corresponding Z-axis motion unit 50. The other cutting unit 20 is supported on column 5-2 by the corresponding Y-axis motion unit 40 and the corresponding Z-axis motion unit 50.

[0024] Each cutting unit 20 is set up to be moved by the corresponding Y motion unit 40 and the corresponding Z motion unit 50 in order to place the corresponding cutting blade 21 at any position on the holding surface 11 of the clamping table 10.

[0025] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, each cutting unit 20 includes a spindle housing 22, which is movable in the Y and Z directions by the corresponding Y-movement unit 40 and the corresponding Z-movement unit 50, wherein the spindle 23 is supported on the spindle housing 22 in the direction of rotation so that it can be rotated about a horizontal axis by a motor (not shown), and a blade retaining element 24, which is mounted on the front end section of the spindle 23. Each cutting unit 20 further includes a fastening nut 25, which is configured to engage with a threaded external thread (not shown) formed on the outer circumference of the front end section of the spindle 23, in order to fasten the clamp retaining element 24 to the front end section of the spindle 23.Each cutting unit 20 further includes the cutting blade 21, which is arranged to be attached to the blade retaining element 24, and a fastening nut 26 for securing the cutting blade 21 in the state in which the cutting blade 21 is inserted between the fastening nut 26 and the blade retaining element 24.

[0026] The blade retaining element 24 includes a cylindrical mounting section 241 and a flanged section 242, which is formed at one end of the mounting section 241 on the side opposite the spindle housing 22. The flanged section 242 is an annular section with an outer diameter larger than that of the mounting section 241. Furthermore, an external thread 243 is formed on the outer circumference of the other end of the mounting section 241.

[0027] The cutting blade 21 is a thin, ring-shaped cutting wheel. In the first preferred embodiment, the cutting blade 21 is a so-called lifting blade, which includes an annular support base 212, made of a metal such as an aluminum alloy, and an annular cutting edge 213, which is attached to the outer circumference of the support base 212 for cutting the workpiece 200. The support base 212 has a central mounting hole 214 for attaching the cutting blade 21 to the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24. That is, the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24 is inserted through the mounting hole 214 of the support base 212 of the cutting blade 21. The cutting edge 213, for example, is constructed with abrasive grains made of diamond or cubic boron nitride (CBN) and a compound (binder) made of, for example, metal or resin to fix the abrasive grains.The cutting edge 213 has a predetermined thickness. As a variation, the cutting blade 21 can be a disc blade constructed solely with the cutting edge 213.

[0028] When the cutting blade 21 is attached to the spindle 23, the mounting hole 214 of the support base 212 engages with the outer circumference of the cylindrical mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 421. The fastening nut 26 then engages with the external thread 243 formed on the cylindrical mounting section 241, thereby securing the cutting blade 21 in the position where it is inserted between the flange section 242 of the blade retaining element 24 and the fastening nut 26. The fastening nut 26 also has four pin engagement holes 261, which are arranged at equal intervals along its outer circumference. Each pin engagement hole 261 is formed on the end face of the fastening nut 26 and extends through its thickness. Furthermore, an annular groove 262 is formed around the entire outer circumference of the fastening nut 26.

[0029] The axis of the spindle 23 of each spindle unit 20, that is, the axis of the cutting blade 21 of each cutting unit 20, is placed parallel to the Y direction.

[0030] Each imaging unit 30 is attached to the corresponding cutting unit 20 so that it can move with it. Each imaging unit 30 includes an imaging element for mapping a target area of ​​the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10 before cutting, the target area being an area to be separated (cut) by the corresponding cutting blade 21. For example, the imaging element is a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS). Each imaging unit 30 serves to map the workpiece 200 held on the clamping table 10 in order to obtain an image for use in performing the alignment between the workpiece 200 and the corresponding cutting blade 21 and then output this image (image signal) to the control unit 4.

[0031] The X-motion unit is used to move the clamping table 10 in the X-direction as the machining feed direction, thereby moving the clamping table 10 and each cutting unit 20 relative to each other in the X-direction. Each Y-motion unit 40 is used to move the corresponding cutting unit 20 in the Y-direction as the indexing direction, thereby moving the clamping table 10 and the corresponding cutting unit 20 relative to each other in the Y-direction. Each Z-motion unit 50 is used to move the corresponding cutting unit 20 in the Z-direction as the cutting feed direction, thereby moving the clamping table 10 and the corresponding cutting unit 20 relative to each other in the Z-direction.

[0032] Although not shown, the X-motion unit includes a known ball screw rotatable about its axis extending in the X-direction, a known motor for rotating the ball screw about its axis, and a pair of parallel guide rails for movably supporting the clamping table 10, so that the clamping table 10 can be moved in the X-direction by rotating the ball screw. Similarly, each Y-motion unit 40 includes a known ball screw rotatable about its axis extending in the Y-direction, a known motor for rotating this ball screw about its axis, and a pair of parallel guide rails for movably supporting the corresponding cutting unit 20, so that the cutting unit 20 can be moved in the Y-direction by rotating this ball screw.Similarly, each Z-motion unit 50 includes a known ball screw rotatable about its axis extending in the Z direction, a known motor for rotating this ball screw about its axis, and a pair of parallel guide rails for movably supporting the corresponding cutting unit 20, so that the cutting unit 20 can be moved in the Z direction by rotating this ball screw.

[0033] Although not shown, the cutting device 1 further includes an X-position sensing unit for sensing the X-position of the clamping table 10 as a position in the X-direction, a Y-position sensing unit for sensing the Y-position of each cutting unit 20 as a position in the Y-direction, and a Z-position sensing unit for sensing the Z-position of each cutting unit 20 as a position in the Z-direction. The X-position sensing unit can be configured with a linear scale parallel to the X-direction and a read head for reading the linear scale. Similarly, the Y-position sensing unit can be configured with a linear scale parallel to the Y-direction and a read head for reading this linear scale.The Z-position detection unit can be configured to use the pulse output of the motor belonging to each Z-motion unit 50 to detect the Z-position of each cutting unit 20 in accordance with the output pulses. Detection signals output by the X-position detection unit, the Y-position detection unit, and the Z-position detection unit are transmitted to the control unit 4.

[0034] The cutting device 1 further includes a cassette lift 60 for mounting a cassette 61 on its upper surface and moving the cassette 61 in the Z-direction, a cleaning unit 70 for cleaning the workpiece 200 after cutting, and a transfer unit 80 as a transfer means for removing the workpiece 200 from the cassette 61 before cutting, storing the workpiece 200 in the cassette 61 after cutting, and transferring the workpiece 200. A plurality of workpieces 200 to be cut are previously stored in the cassette 61, and these workpieces 200 are intended to be returned to the cassette 61 after cutting.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the cassette 61 is a box-like container for storing the workpiece 200. The cassette 61 has a front opening 62 to allow the workpiece 200 to pass through when removing it from the cassette 61 before cutting or when storing it in the cassette 61 after cutting. The cassette 61 also has a plurality of slots 63 for supporting a plurality of workpieces 200, such that these workpieces 200 are spaced apart from each other in the Z-direction. The cassette 61 is placed on the upper surface of the cassette lift 60 in the position where the front opening 62 faces the ready area 92.

[0036] The cleaning unit 70 includes a rotary table 71 for holding the workpiece 200 under vacuum, wherein the rotary table 71 is rotatable about its axis parallel to the Z direction, and a cleaning water nozzle 72 for supplying cleaning water to the workpiece 200 held on the rotary table 71.

[0037] The transfer unit 80 serves to feed the workpiece 200 to the processing unit 2 and also to transfer the workpiece 200 between the cassette 61, the clamping table 10 and the cleaning unit 70. The transfer unit 80 includes an intermediate placement unit 81, which is located in Fig. 6 is shown, and two transfer arms 82 are shown, which have essentially the same structure, with one of the two transfer arms 82 in Fig. 7 is shown.

[0038] The intermediate placement unit 81 serves to remove one of the workpieces 200 from the cassette 61 before cutting and also to store the workpiece 200 in the cassette 61 after cutting. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the intermediate placement unit 81 includes a handling unit 811 for handling the workpiece 200 in order to transfer it in a linear direction, and a pair of rails 812 for temporarily placing the workpiece 200 on them before and after cutting. The handling unit 811 is designed to hold the ring-shaped frame 211 supporting the workpiece 200 when removing the workpiece 200 from the cassette 61 before cutting and when placing the workpiece 200 into the cassette 61 after cutting.

[0039] The two transfer arms 82 serve to transfer the workpiece 200 between the rails 812, the clamping table 10 and the rotary table 71. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a second double-column support frame 7 is provided on the upper surface of the base housing 6, projecting upwards from it. The second support frame 7 is located next to the support frame 5 on the side of the ready area 92. The two transfer arms 82 are supported by the second support frame 7, allowing them to move in the Y-direction.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, each transfer arm 82 has an arm section 821 that is movable in the Y direction and a mounting section 822 for holding the workpiece 200, the mounting section 822 being connected to the lower end section of the arm section 821 so that it is movable in the Z direction. That is, the mounting section 822 is movable in the vertical direction relative to the arm section 821. In the first preferred embodiment, the mounting section 822 of each transfer arm 82 is configured to support the annular frame 211, as shown in Figure 7. Fig. Figure 7 shows a vacuum applied to hold the workpiece 200. When the workpiece 200 is fed from the cassette 61 to the processing unit 2, the intermediate positioning unit 81 of the transfer unit 80 is actuated to pull the workpiece 200 out of the cassette 61 and then temporarily place the workpiece 200 on the rails 812, and one of the two transfer arms 82 is then actuated to transfer the workpiece 200 from the rails 812 to the clamping table 10.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the blade changing unit 3 is arranged behind the support frame 5 near the machining area 91. Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the blade changing unit 3 includes a unit body 31, a nut holder 32, and a blade clamping device 34. In the first preferred embodiment, the individual nut holder 32 and the individual blade clamping device 34 are part of the blade changing unit 3.

[0042] The unit body 31 includes an L-shaped support table 311, which, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the support table 311 is located behind the support frame 5. The support table 311 is movable in the Z-direction. The support table 311 is also movable in the X-direction by a motion unit (not shown). The motion unit for moving the support table 311 in the X-direction is designed similarly to motion units 40 and 50 by using a known ball screw, a known motor, and known guide rails. The unit body 31 further includes a supported section 312, which is provided to the support table 311, and a rotation section 313, which is connected to the support section 312 so that it can be rotated about a horizontal axis parallel to the X-direction by a known motor. That is to say, the rotation section 313 is a cylindrical section having an axis of rotation extending in the X-direction.

[0043] The nut holder 32 and the blade clamping device 34 are mounted on the rotating section 313 at two positions spaced apart in the X-direction. In the first preferred embodiment, the nut holder 32 is aligned with the blade clamping device 34 when viewed from above and is located on the side of the ready area 92.

[0044] The nut holder 32 is an element for removing the fastening nut 26 of each cutting unit 20 from the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24, for holding the removed fastening nut 26, and for mounting the fastening nut 26 held on the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24. The nut holder 32 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the X-direction by a pneumatic cylinder (not shown) attached to the rotary section 313.

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the nut holder 92 encloses a hollow cylindrical motor housing 321, which is movable in the direction perpendicular to the X-direction by the aforementioned pneumatic cylinder; an electric motor 322, which has a drive shaft 322a provided in the motor housing 321; a solid cylindrical rotating element 323, which is connected to the drive shaft 322a of the electric motor 322; an actuating ring 324, which is designed to surround the cylindrical surface of the rotating element 323; and a second pneumatic cylinder 325, which connects the motor housing 321 and the actuating ring 324. The second pneumatic cylinder 325 is only used in Fig. 9 and not shown in the other drawings.

[0046] The drive shaft 322a of the electric motor 322 extends in a direction perpendicular to the X-direction. By rotating the drive shaft 322a about its axis, the rotating element 323 can be rotated about its axis, which is aligned with the axis of the drive shaft 322a. The rotating element 323 has a progressively changing outer diameter. That is, the rotating element 323 is constructed with a small-diameter section 326, which is connected to the drive shaft 322a of the electric motor 322, and a large-diameter section 327, which is integrally connected, or integrally connected, to the small-diameter section 326. The large-diameter section 327 has a larger outer diameter than the small-diameter section 326. In the first preferred embodiment, the diameter of the small-diameter section 326 is equal to the outer diameter of the motor housing 321.In the first preferred embodiment, the drive shaft 322a, the motor housing 321 and the rotating element 323 are arranged coaxially.

[0047] The actuating ring 324 is a hollow cylindrical element with a bottom section 328. The bottom section 328 is arranged on the side of the rotating section 313, that is, on the side in Fig. 9 on the left side. The actuating ring 324 is arranged coaxially with the drive shaft 322a, the motor housing 321, and the rotating element 323. The bottom section 328 of the actuating ring 324 has a central through-hole 329 through which the small-diameter section 326 of the rotating element 323 is inserted. The second pneumatic cylinder 325 has a piston rod 325a that is connected to the actuating ring 324. By extending and retracting the piston rod 325a of the second pneumatic cylinder 325, the actuating ring 324 is positioned to move axially on the rotating element 323 between an unactuated position, which is in Fig. 9 is represented by a solid line, and to move to an actuated position that is in Fig. Figure 9 is represented by a dashed line. The actuating ring 324 has an open front end opposite the base section 328. This open front end of the actuating ring 324 is formed with four cutouts 331 for receiving four retaining elements 330, which are described below.

[0048] Furthermore, the nut holder 32 includes four pins 332 that project from the end face of the large-diameter section 327 of the rotating element 323. The four pins 332 are arranged at equal intervals along the outer circumference of the rotating element 323. A circular flange section 333 is located at the base end (which is in Fig. 9 (left end shown) of each pin 332. The flange section 333 of each pin 332 is slidably fitted into a cylindrical hole 334 formed in an end section of the large-diameter section of the rotating element 323. A compression spring 335 is provided between the bottom surface of each cylindrical hole 334 and the flange section 333 of each pin 332. Each compression spring 335 normally biases the respective pin 332 in a projection direction of the pin 332 that extends from the end surface of the rotating element 323. Each cylindrical hole 334 is provided with a stop section 336 configured to engage with the flange section 333 of each pin 332, thereby preventing each pin 332 from falling out. The four pins 332 are positioned, or rather, are to engage with the four pin engagement holes 261 of the fastening nut 26.

[0049] Furthermore, the nut holder 32 includes four retaining elements 330 provided on the outer circumference of the rotating element 323. The four retaining elements 330 are arranged at equal intervals along the outer circumference of the rotating element 323. Each retaining element 330 is an arm-shaped element that extends substantially in the axial direction of the rotating element 323. Each retaining element 330 has a front end that projects from the end face of the large-diameter section 327 of the rotating element 323, and a gripper 337 is formed at this front end of each retaining element 330. The gripper 337 of each retaining element 330 is configured to engage with the annular groove 262 formed on the outer circumference of the fastening nut 26. Each retaining element 330 is configured at its base end (which is located in Fig. The four retaining elements 330 are pivotally supported on the outer circumferential surface of the small-diameter section 326 of the rotating element 323 (see left end). The four retaining elements 330 are designed to be actuated by the actuating ring 324 and thereby pivotally moved about their base ends, allowing the four grippers 337 to move towards and away from each other. Furthermore, a compression spring 338 is provided between the outer circumferential surface of the rotating element 323 and a central section of each retaining element 330. Each compression spring 338 normally pre-tensions the corresponding retaining element 330, so that the corresponding gripper 337 is normally radially outwardly biased, meaning that the four grippers 337 are normally biased to move away from each other.

[0050] In the unactivated position, through the solid line in Fig. In the position shown in Figure 9, the gripper 337 is held by each retaining element 330 belonging to the nut holder 32 by the corresponding compression spring 338 in the radially outermost position, so that the engagement of each gripper 337 with the annular groove 262 of the fastening nut 26 is released. When the piston rod 325a of the second pneumatic cylinder 325 is extended to move the actuating ring 324 to the position indicated by the dashed line in Figure 9, the gripper 337 is held by the corresponding compression spring 338 in the radially outermost position. Fig. To move the gripper 337 to the actuation position shown in Figure 9, each holding element 330 moves it to the radially innermost position, so that each gripper 337 engages with the annular groove 262 of the fastening nut 26.

[0051] The blade clamping device 34 is an element for holding the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21 by means of a vacuum. The blade clamping device 34 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the X-direction by a pneumatic cylinder (not shown) mounted on the rotary section 313.

[0052] The blade clamping device 34 includes a hollow cylindrical clamping body 341, which is movable in the direction perpendicular to the X-direction by the pneumatic cylinder mentioned above, and a suction retaining section 342, which is attached to the front end of the clamping body 341 for holding the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21 by means of a vacuum. A vacuum generated by a vacuum source (not shown) is applied to the suction retaining section 342 to provide a suction force for holding the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21. The cutting blade 34 also includes a mounting hole 343, which allows the insertion of the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24 when changing each cutting blade 21. The mounting hole 343 is designed so that it has a depth extending from the suction retaining section 342 to the clamping table 341.

[0053] The blade changing unit 3 is configured to be moved by the motion unit for moving the support table 311 in the Z-direction and the motion unit for moving the support table 311 in the X-direction, thereby assuming a ready position defined behind the support frame 5 and a working position defined above the clamping table 10, which is located in the machining area 91. Furthermore, in the working position, the rotating section 313 is rotated about its axis to assume a horizontal position, where the nut holder 32 and the blade clamping device 34 of the cutting blade 21 of each cutting unit 20 are opposite, and a vertical position, where the nut holder 32 and the blade clamping device 34 are opposite the clamping table 10.

[0054] The control unit 4 serves to control each component of the cutting device 1 and thereby execute the machining process of the workpiece 200 in a controlled manner. The control unit 4 is a computer that includes a processor unit (processing unit) with a microprocessor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a memory unit with memory, such as read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM), and an input / output interface unit. The processing unit in the control unit 4 serves to execute processing in accordance with a computer program stored in the memory unit and to output a control signal to each component of the cutting device 1 via the input / output interface unit.

[0055] The control unit 4 is connected to a display unit (not shown), such as a liquid crystal display, for showing the status of the processing operation, the image of workpiece 200, etc. The control unit 4 is also connected to an input unit (not shown) designed to be operated by an operator when receiving information about the processing of workpiece 200. This input unit is configured as a touch panel integrated into the display unit and / or an external input device, such as a keyboard. Transfer device

[0056] The transfer device will now be described in accordance with the first preferred embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the construction of the transfer device in accordance with the first preferred embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a recording section of the transfer device, which is located in Fig. 10 is shown. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the cutting blade is in the recording section shown in Fig. 11 is shown, recorded.

[0057] Referring to Fig. Figure 10 shows a transfer device 100 for use in the cutting device 1. This means that the transfer device 100 is a device for transferring the cutting blade 21, which is to be used in the cutting process, to each cutting unit 20 of the processing unit 2. The transfer device 100 is a plate-shaped element with the same external shape, as seen from above, as that of the annular frame 211. The transfer device 100 is formed in one piece from a hard material, such as metal.

[0058] As in the Fig. 10, Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the transfer device 100 has a plurality of receiving sections 101 for one or a plurality of cutting blades 21, respectively. That is, each receiving section 101 is configured to hold a cutting blade 21 in position. Each receiving section 101 has a cylindrical wall 102 projecting from the upper surface of the transfer device 100 and a positioning projection 103 formed inside the cylindrical wall 102, also projecting from the upper surface of the transfer device 100. The inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical wall 102, viewed from above, has the same shape as the outer shape of the cutting edge 213 of each cutting blade 21. The cylindrical wall 102 is sized to accommodate each cutting blade 21.

[0059] In the first preferred embodiment, each cutting blade 21 is mounted inside the cylindrical wall 102 in such a way that the cutting edge 213 of each cutting blade 21 is spaced apart from the upper surface of the transfer device 100. The positioning projection 103 is configured to engage in the mounting hole 214 of each cutting blade 21 mounted inside the cylindrical wall 102, thereby positioning each cutting blade 21 inside the cylindrical wall 102. In the first preferred embodiment, the positioning projection 103 has a frustoconical shape such that the outer diameter of the positioning projection 103 decreases gradually from the base connected to the upper surface of the transfer device 100.By positioning each cutting blade 21 inside the cylindrical wall 102, the inner circumference of the mounting hole 214 of each cutting blade 21 comes into contact with the outer circumference (conical surface) of the positioning projection 103 before the cutting edge 213 of each cutting blade 21 comes into contact with the upper surface of the transfer device 100, so that each cutting blade 21 is fixed in its position by the positioning projection 103. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the cutting edge 213 of each cutting blade 21 from coming into direct contact with each receiving section 101.

[0060] The transfer device 100 can be stored in a state similar to the annular frame 211 in one of the slots 63 of the cassette 61, in which each cutting blade 21 is received in one of the receiving sections 101. Furthermore, the transfer device 100 can be transferred by the transfer unit 80 in a manner similar to the annular frame 211. That is, the transfer device 100 is configured to be transferred by the transfer unit 80 for the usual purpose of transferring the workpiece 200 between the cassette 61 and the clamping table 10. The transfer device 100 is also configured to be positioned above the clamping table 10 by the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15, such that the outer circumference of the transfer device 100 is in contact with the stepped section 17 of each transfer device holding element 15. Machining process of the cutting device

[0061] The machining process of the cutting device 1 will now be described. Fig. 13 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the multitude of cutting blades are in the multitude of recording sections of the in Fig. The transfer device shown in section 10 can be used. Fig. Figure 14 is a perspective view that shows a way of storing the in Fig. 13 represents the transfer device shown in the cassette.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, during the machining process, the operator picks up a plurality of cutting blades 21 in the plurality of receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100, and the information about the machining of the workpiece 200 is entered by the operator into the control unit 4. Afterwards, the transfer device 100 is operated as shown in Figure 13. Fig. 14 shown, in which in Fig. The workpieces are stored in cassette 61 in the state shown in Figure 13. Furthermore, a large number of workpieces 200 to be processed are also stored in cassette 61 by the operator. Afterwards, cassette 61 is placed by the operator on the upper surface of the cassette lift 60.

[0063] By receiving the plurality of cutting blades 21 in the plurality of receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100, the plurality of cutting blades 21 in the first preferred embodiment are received in the plurality of receiving sections 101, with the exception of one of the receiving sections 101 belonging to the transfer device 100. That is, no cutting blade 21 is received in one of the receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100. Furthermore, the information about the machining of the workpiece 200, which is to be received by the operator in the control unit 4, includes information indicating the position of the transfer device 100, which is stored in the cassette 61.Furthermore, the information about the machining of the workpiece 200, which is to be recorded by the operator in the control unit 4, also includes information indicating the positions of the plurality of receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100 in which the plurality of cutting blades 21 are received, and information indicating the position of the receiving section 101 in which no cutting blade 21 is received.

[0064] When the operator signals the start of the machining process, the machining process is then initiated by the cutting device 1. Once the machining process has started, the control unit 4 actuates the transfer unit 80 to move the workpiece 200 from the cassette 61 to the clamping table 10, which is located in the ready area 92. The control unit 4 then actuates the vacuum source connected to the clamping table 10 to hold the back 204 of the workpiece 200 against the clamping surface 11 of the clamping table 10 by means of a vacuum via the adhesive strip 210. Furthermore, the control unit 4 actuates the clamps 12 to clamp the annular frame 12.

[0065] The control unit 4 of the cutting device 1 then actuates the X-motion unit to move the clamping table 10 towards the machining area 91. During the movement of the clamping table 10, the control unit 4 actuates the imaging unit 30 to image the workpiece 200 and then perform the alignment according to an image obtained by the imaging unit 30. In the machining area 91, the control unit 4 actuates the X-motion unit, each Y-motion unit 40, and each Z-motion unit 50 to move the workpiece 200 and each cutting unit 20 relative to each other along the parting lines 202 while cutting the parting lines 202 using one of the cutting blades 21, thereby separating the workpiece 200 into the individual components 203. The control unit 4 then activates the cleaning unit 70 to clean the workpiece 200, which is separated into the individual components 203.The control unit 4 then activates the transfer unit 80 to store the workpiece 200 in the cassette 61. When a similar cutting operation is performed for all the other workpieces 200 stored in the cassette 61, the machining operation of the cutting device 1 is complete. Cutting blade replacement procedure

[0066] The cutting blade replacement method is now described in accordance with the first preferred embodiment. Fig. Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the first preferred embodiment. When the control unit 4 determines that the cutting blade 21 of at least one of the cutting units 20 needs to be changed during the machining process of the workpiece, the control unit 4 determines that the cutting blade 21 of at least one of the cutting units 20 is to be changed during the machining process of the workpiece. Fig. When the cutting device 1 shown in diagram 1 has reached a blade change point, this is indicated by the flowchart in Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in Figure 15 is carried out. The blade change time is the point in time at which the cutting blade 21 of each cutting unit 20 is changed. For example, the blade change time is the point in time at which a preset number of workpieces 200 have been cut by the cutting blade 21, and this point in time is determined according to the type of each cutting blade 21. This blade change time is recorded as part of the information about the machining of the workpiece 200 in the control unit 4. Alternatively, the blade change time can be the point in time at which a workpiece 200 is being machined, or it can be the point in time of a change of the workpiece 200 during continuous machining of a large number of workpieces 200.

[0067] The cutting blade change method is a method for changing each cutting blade 21 by using the transfer device 100 in the Fig. 1. Cutting device shown. 1. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the cutting blade change procedure includes a transfer step ST1, a transfer device holding step ST2, a removal step ST3, an assembly step ST4 and a return step ST5. Transfer step

[0068] Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a state in which the transfer device 100 is at transfer step ST1 of the process described in Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 has been taken out of the cassette 61 and then placed on the rails 812. Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a state in which the transfer device 100, which has been removed from the cassette 61, is during transfer step ST1 of the process described in Figure 17. Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 is held by the transfer arm 82 under a vacuum.

[0069] Transfer step ST1 is the step of transferring the transfer device 100 to the clamping table 10 of the machining unit 2 by actuating the transfer unit 80, in which a plurality of cutting blades 21 have previously been placed as spare parts in the receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100 in the state in which one of all receiving sections 101 is left empty. During transfer step ST1, the control unit 4 actuates the cassette lift 60 to bring the height of the slot 63, which supports the transfer device 100 in the cassette 61, to the same height as the rails 812 of the intermediate placement unit 81. The control unit 4 then actuates the handling unit 811 to remove the transfer device 100 from the cassette 61 and places the transfer device 100 as shown in Fig. Shown as 16, next on track 812.

[0070] In transfer step ST1, the control unit 4 next actuates one of the two transfer arms 82 to hold the transfer device 100 above a vacuum, as described in Fig. Figure 17 shows the transfer device 100 being placed on the rails 812, and the program then actuates the transfer arm 82 to move the transfer device 100 to the clamping table 10. The program then continues with the transfer device holding step ST2. Transfer device holding step

[0071] Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the transfer device 100 is during the transfer device holding step ST2 of the in Fig. The cutting blade changing process shown in Figure 15 is held in position by the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15. Transfer device holding step ST2 is the step involving holding the transfer device 100 above the clamping table 10 by using the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15.

[0072] During transfer device holding step ST2, the control unit 4 actuates the X-motion unit to move the clamping table 10 to the ready area 92, and then actuates the transfer arm 82, which holds the transfer device 100, to position the transfer device 100 over the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15 such that the outer circumference of the transfer device 100 is positioned over the inner surfaces of the step sections 17 of the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15. Afterward, the control unit 4 actuates the transfer arm 82 to bring the outer circumference of the transfer device 100 into contact with the inner surfaces of the step sections 17 of the plurality of transfer device holding elements 15. At this point, the lower surface of the transfer device 100 is in its circumferential section, as shown in Fig. Figure 18 shows the transfer device 100 being placed on the flat section 16 of each transfer device holding element 15. The holding of the transfer device 100 by the transfer arm 82 is then released by vacuum, and the transfer arm 82 is returned from the clamping table 10. The program then proceeds with the removal step ST3. Fig. Figure 18 does not show the receiving sections 101 and the cutting blades 21 of the transfer device 100. Distance step

[0073] Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing a state in which the fastening nut 26 is during the distance step ST3 of the in Fig. The cutting blade replacement procedure shown in section 15 has been removed. Fig. 20 is a perspective view depicting a state in which the cutting blade 21, to be replaced by a new one, is during the removal step ST3 of the in Fig. The cutting blade replacement procedure shown in section 15 has been removed. Fig. Figure 21 is a perspective view representing a state in which the removed cutting blade 21 is located during the removal step ST3 of the process described in Figure 21. Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 has been taken up by the empty receiving section 101 of the transfer device 100.

[0074] Removal step ST3 is the step involving the removal of the old cutting blade 21, hereinafter referred to as reference numeral 21-1, from the spindle 23 using the blade changing unit 3. During removal step ST3, the control unit 4 actuates the motion unit and the rotation section 313 of the blade changing unit 3 to position the nut holder 32 opposite the fastening nut 26 in the Y-direction, in which the old cutting blade 21-1 is attached to the blade retaining element 24 by the fastening nut 26. The control unit 4 then actuates the second pneumatic cylinder 325 to retract the piston rod 325a, thereby placing the actuating ring 324 in the unactuated position, which is located in Fig. 9 is represented by the solid line. The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the nut holder 32 to extend the piston rod, thereby bringing the end face of the rotating element 323 into contact with the fastening nut 26.

[0075] The control unit 4 then actuates the second pneumatic cylinder 325 to extend the piston rod 325a, thereby placing the actuating ring 324 in the actuating position, which is in Fig. 9 is represented by the dashed line. Accordingly, the gripper 337 engages the annular groove 262 of the fastening nut 26 on each holding element 330. The control unit 4 then actuates the electric motor 322 to rotate the rotating element 323 in a direction that disengages the fastening nut 26 from the external thread 243. Consequently, the pins 332 engage with the pin engagement holes 261. As a result, the fastening nut 26, together with the rotating element 323, is rotated in the direction that disengages the nut.

[0076] The electric motor 322 is actuated to rotate the rotary element 323 for a predetermined period. Accordingly, the fastening nut 26 and the external thread 243, which is formed on the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24, are disengaged. Subsequently, the control unit 4 actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the nut holder 32 in the state in which the actuated position of the actuating ring 324, which is in Fig. 9, represented by the dashed line, is maintained to retain the piston rod, as shown in Fig. 19 shown, to enter.

[0077] When the motion unit and the rotation section 313 of the blade changing unit 3 are actuated by the control unit 4, the blade clamping 34 is also brought to the position opposite the support base 212 of the old cutting blade 21-1 in the Y-direction. In this state, the control unit 4 actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping 34 to extend the piston rod. Accordingly, the suction holding section 342 of the blade clamping 34 comes to rest, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the support base 212 of the old cutting blade 21-1 is held against the support base 212 of the old cutting blade 21-1 by the suction holding section 342 under a vacuum. In the state in which the support base 212 of the old cutting blade 21-1 is held under a vacuum by the suction holding section 342, the control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping 34 to retract the piston rod.

[0078] The control unit 4 then actuates the motion unit and the rotation section 313 of the blade changing unit 3 and the X-motion unit to bring the blade clamping unit 34 into position opposite the empty receiving section 101 of the transfer device 100, which is positioned in the Z-direction above the clamping table 10 and in which no cutting blade 21 is present in the empty receiving section 101. The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping unit 34 to extend the piston rod, thereby removing the old cutting blade 21-1, which is held by the suction retaining section 342, as shown in Fig. Figure 21 shows the empty receiving section 101 of the transfer device 100 being stored. The suction holder of the old cutting blade 21-1 is then released by the suction holding section 342. The program then continues with assembly section ST4. Assembly step

[0079] Fig. 22 is a perspective view depicting a state in which a new cutting blade 21 is installed during assembly step ST4 of the process. Fig. The cutting blade change procedure shown in 15 is held by the blade clamping 34 under a vacuum. Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing a state in which the fastening nut 26, held by the nut holder 32, is located during assembly step ST4 of the assembly process. Fig. The cutting blade changing procedure shown in 15 is about to be attached to the blade holding elements 24. Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing a state in which the fastening nut 26, held by the nut holder 32, is in place during assembly step ST4 of the assembly step ST4 of the assembly step ST4. Fig. 15 shown cutting blade changing procedure is about to be attached to the blade holding element.

[0080] Assembly step ST4 is the step involving the attachment of the new cutting blade 21 (hereinafter referred to as 21-2) as a replacement part, which is placed on the transfer device 100, to the spindle 23 using the blade changing unit 3. During assembly step ST4, the control unit 4 actuates the motion unit of the blade changing unit 3 and the X-motion unit to cause the blade clamping 34 to be positioned opposite any of the plurality of receiving sections 101 of the transfer device 100, which is positioned in the Z-direction above the clamping table 10 and in which the plurality of new cutting blades 21-2 have previously been stored in the plurality of receiving sections 101. The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping 34 to extend the piston rod, thereby extending the support base 212 of the new cutting blade 21-2, as shown in Fig. 22 is shown, brought to contact with the suction holding section 342, so that the support base 212 of the new cutting blade 21-2 is held by the suction holding section 342 by a vacuum.

[0081] The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping 34 to retract the piston rod, and then actuates the motion unit and the rotation section 313 of the blade changing unit 3 to bring the blade clamping 34 into the position opposite the blade holding element 24 in the Y-direction, in which the old cutting blade 21-1 has already been removed from the blade holding element 24. The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamping 34 to extend the piston rod as described in Fig. 23, to extend, thereby engaging the mounting hole 214 of the support base 212 of the new cutting blade 21-2, held by the blade clamp 34, with the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24. Consequently, the new cutting blade 21-2 is attached to the blade retaining element 24. Afterward, the suction cup of the new cutting blade 21-2 is released by the blade clamp 34, and the piston rod of the pneumatic cylinder for the blade clamp 34 is extended, as shown in Fig. 24 shown, retracted.

[0082] The control unit 4 then actuates the motion unit of the blade changing unit 3 to position the nut holder 32 opposite the blade retaining element 24 in the Y-direction, in which the new cutting blade 21-2 has already been attached to the blade retaining element 24. The control unit 4 then actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the nut holder 32 to extend the piston rod and subsequently actuates the electric motor 322 to rotate the rotating element 323 in a direction in which the retaining nut 26 engages with the external thread 243. The electric motor 322 is actuated to rotate the rotating element 323 in the nut engagement direction for a predetermined period. As a result, the retaining nut 26 engages with the external thread 243 formed on the mounting section 241 of the blade retaining element 24.

[0083] The control unit 4 then actuates the second pneumatic cylinder 325 to move the actuating ring 324 to the unactuated position, which is in Fig. 9 is represented by the solid line. As a result, the gripper 337 of each retaining element 330 is disengaged from the annular groove 262 of the fastening nut 26. In the state in which the actuating ring 324 is held in the unactuated position, which is shown in Fig. As shown by the solid line 9, the control unit 4 actuates the pneumatic cylinder for the nut holder 32 to retract the piston rod and then actuates the rotary section 313 to cause the nut holder 32 and the blade clamp 34 to point downwards. Afterward, the control unit 4 actuates the motion unit to move the blade changing unit 3 to the ready position defined behind the support frame 5. The program then proceeds with the feedback step ST5. Retracing step

[0084] Fig. Figure 25 is a perspective view showing a state in which the transfer device 100, positioned above the clamping table 10, is during the return step ST5 of the cutting blade change procedure, which is described in Fig. 15 is shown, by which the transfer arm 82 is held under a vacuum. Fig. 26 is a perspective view showing a state in which the transfer device 100 placed on the rails 812 is about to move during the return step ST5 of the process described in Fig. to be stored in cassette 61 according to the cutting blade replacement procedure shown in section 15.

[0085] The return step ST5 is the step involving the return of the transfer device 100, which transports the old cutting blade 21-1, by means of the transfer unit 80 to the cassette 61 in which the old cutting blade 21-1, removed from the spindle 23, is located in the receiving section 101 of the transfer device 100. In the return step ST5, the control unit 4 actuates the X-motion unit to move the clamping table 10 to the ready area 92, and then actuates the transfer arm 82 to move the transfer device 100, positioned above the clamping table 10, as shown in Fig. 25 shows how to maintain a vacuum. The control unit 4 then actuates the transfer arm 82 to move the transfer device 100, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 26, the transfer device 100 is placed on the rails 812 and then the suction cup of the transfer device 100 is lifted by the transfer arm 82. The control unit 4 then actuates the handling unit 811 of the intermediate placement unit 81 to move the transfer device 100 from the rails 812 into the output slot 63 of the cassette 61. This completes the cutting blade change procedure.

[0086] In the cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 in accordance with the first preferred embodiment mentioned above, the transfer device 100 with the new cutting blade 21-2 is transferred by the transfer unit to the position above the clamping table 10 of the machining unit 2. In this state, the old cutting blade 21-1, which is to be replaced by the new cutting blade 21-2, is removed from the cutting unit 20 by the blade changing unit 3, and the new cutting blade 21-2 is attached to the cutting unit 20. Furthermore, the external shape of the transfer device 100 in plan view is the same as the external shape of the annular frame 211.Accordingly, in the cutting blade change procedure using the transfer device 100, the cutting blade 21 (new cutting blade 21-2) can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 for use in transferring the workpiece 200 by means of the transfer unit 80, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 can be reduced in the cutting blade change procedure using the transfer device 100.

[0087] Furthermore, in the cutting blade changing method, in accordance with the first preferred embodiment, each clamp 12 of the clamping table 10 is provided with the transfer device holding element 15. Even if the workpiece 200 is held on the clamping table 10 by a vacuum, the transfer device 100 can be held above the clamping table 10 (above the workpiece 200) by each transfer device holding element 15. Even if the workpiece 200 is held on the clamping table 10 during the cutting process, the cutting blade 21 can still be changed while the transfer device 100 is held above the clamping table 10.

[0088] Furthermore, in the cutting blade changing method according to the first preferred embodiment, the transfer device 100 can be stored in the cassette 61, thus minimizing the space required for storing the transfer device 100. Since the transfer device 100 can also be stored in the cassette 61, the new cutting blade 21-2 can be automatically fed in by installing the blade changing unit 3 in an existing device. modification

[0089] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a modification of the first preferred embodiment will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 27 is an enlarged sectional view of an essential part of the transfer device in accordance with the modification of the first preferred embodiment. Fig. 27 The parts that are essentially the same as those in the first preferred embodiment are identified by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0090] The transfer device 100 in accordance with the in Fig. The modification of the first preferred embodiment shown in Figure 27 has a plurality of receiving sections 101 which are described in Figure 27. Fig. The components shown in Figure 10 are similar, and each receiving section 101 has a positioning projection 103 provided with a plurality of ball detents 104. Each ball detents 104 is configured to engage with the inner circumference of the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21. The plurality of ball detents 104 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the positioning projection 103. The positioning projection 103 is formed with a plurality of through holes 105, which correspond respectively to the plurality of ball detents 104. That is, each ball detents 104 is inserted into the corresponding through hole 105. Each ball plunger 104 inserted into the corresponding through-hole 105 is normally pre-tensioned by a compression spring 106 in a direction in which each ball plunger 104 protrudes partially from the outer circumferential surface of the positioning projection 103.The diameter of each through-hole 105 is set smaller at its outer end, which is exposed to the outer circumferential surface of the positioning projection 103, than the diameter of each ball plunger 104, thus preventing each ball plunger 104 from falling out.

[0091] As described above, each ball plunger 104 partially protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the positioning projection 103, so that each ball plunger 104 engages with the inner circumference of the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21, and the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21 is ultimately held in position between the upper surface of the transfer device 100 and each ball plunger 104. When the mounting hole 343 of the suction retaining section 342 of the blade clamping unit 34 is brought into engagement with the positioning projection 103 by the blade changing unit 3, each ball plunger 104 is pressed through the inner surface of the mounting hole 343 against the preload force of the compression spring 106, so that the engagement of each ball plunger 104 with the inner circumference of the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21 can be broken.Accordingly, the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21 can be held by the suction holding section 342 via a vacuum.

[0092] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 in accordance with the present modification can produce a similar effect to that of the first embodiment. That is, the cutting blade 21 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 by using the transfer unit 80 for use in transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 can be reduced.

[0093] Furthermore, in the cutting blade exchange method and the transfer device 100, in accordance with the present modification, the positioning projection 103 of each receiving section 101 has a plurality of ball detents 104 which are configured to engage with the inner circumference of the support base 212 of each cutting blade 21. Accordingly, during the transfer of the transfer device 100, a possible displacement of each cutting blade 21 from the positioning projection 103 of each receiving section 101 of the transfer device 100 can be avoided. Second preferred embodiment

[0094] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 28 is a perspective view of an essential part of a cutting device for carrying out the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the second preferred embodiment. Fig. Figure 29 is a perspective view of the transfer device in accordance with the second preferred embodiment. In the Fig. 28 and Fig. 29 The parts that are essentially the same as those of the first preferred embodiment are identified by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0095] Referring to Fig. Figure 28 shows a cutting device 1-2 for performing the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the second preferred embodiment. The cutting device 1-2 includes a machining unit 2-2, which incorporates a pair of auxiliary clamping tables 111 for, respectively, mounting a pair of jointing boards 110. Referring to Fig. Figure 29 shows a transfer device 100-2 in accordance with the second preferred embodiment. The transfer device 100-2 serves to guide the dressing board 110 as a consumable component to each auxiliary clamping table 111 of the machining unit 2-2. The remaining structure is the same as that of the first preferred embodiment.

[0096] Each auxiliary clamping table 111 serves to detachably mount the jointing board 110. Each auxiliary clamping table 111 is movable in the X-direction together with the clamping table 10. Each auxiliary clamping table 111 is perpendicular when viewed from above and has an upper surface for mounting the jointing board 110. The upper surface of each auxiliary clamping table 111 is positioned at the same height as the holding surface 11 of the clamping table 10. Each auxiliary clamping table 111 is connected to a vacuum source (not shown) such that when a vacuum generated by the vacuum source is applied to each auxiliary clamping table 111, the jointing board 110, which is placed on the upper surface of each auxiliary clamping table 111, is held in place by the vacuum on each auxiliary clamping table 111.In the second preferred embodiment, the two auxiliary clamping tables 111 correspond to the two cutting units 20 respectively, and the dressing board 110 held on each auxiliary clamping table 111 is suitable for the type of cutting blade 21 of the corresponding cutting unit 20.

[0097] Each dressing board 110 serves to dress the cutting blade 21, whose cutting performance is reduced due to stress or dulling, thereby restoring the cutting performance of the cutting blade 21. Consequently, dressing the cutting blade 21 means restoring the cutting performance of the cutting blade 21.

[0098] Each dressing board 110 is a rectangular plate which, viewed from above, has essentially the same shape as the upper surface of each auxiliary clamping table 111. Each dressing board 110 is constructed by mixing abrasive grains, such as WA (white aluminum or aluminum oxide) and GC (green carbonite or silicon carbide), in a compound formed from resin or ceramic.

[0099] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, the transfer device 100-2, in accordance with the second preferred embodiment, has a plurality of receiving sections 101-2 for receiving a plurality of jointing boards 110, respectively. Each receiving section 101-2 has a rectangular side wall 102-2, wherein the outer shape of the rectangular space defined by the rectangular side wall 102-2, viewed from above, is the same as the outer shape of each jointing board 110. That is to say, the rectangular space defined by the rectangular side wall 102-2 is adapted to receive each jointing board 110. The transfer device 100-2 in accordance with the second preferred embodiment can be stored in the slots 63 in the cassette 61 in the state in which the plurality of planing boards 110 or in the plurality of receiving sections 101-2 are received, similar to the annular frame 211.Furthermore, the transfer device 100-2 can be transferred by the transfer unit 80 in a similar way to the ring-shaped frame 211. This means that the transfer device 100-2 is transferred by using the transfer unit 80 for ordinary use in transferring the workpiece 200 between the cassette 61 and the clamping table 10.

[0100] The in Fig. The cutting device 1-2 shown in Figure 28 includes a changeover unit (not shown) for changing the planing board 110, which is held on each auxiliary clamping table 111. The changeover unit does not include the nut holder 32 and includes the blade clamping device 34, which is configured to hold the planing board 110 under vacuum. The remaining structure of this changeover unit is the same as that of the blade changeover unit 3.

[0101] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100-2 according to the second preferred embodiment can produce similar effects to those of the first preferred embodiment. That is, the dressing board 110 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2-2 by using the transfer unit 80 for transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the dressing board 110 can be reduced. First variation

[0102] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a first modification of the first and second preferred embodiments is now described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 30 is a top view showing the setup of a manufacturing apparatus including a plurality of cutting devices for carrying out the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the first modification. Fig. 30 The parts that are essentially the same as those of the first and second preferred embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0103] In the cutting blade changing method according to the first modification, a manufacturing equipment 300 including a plurality of cutting devices 1 or 1-2 and a conveying device 301 for transporting a plurality of trays 302 is used, wherein a transfer device 100 or 100-2 and a plurality of workpieces 200 are held on the plurality of trays 302. The remaining setup of the first modification is the same as that of the first and second preferred embodiments. In the first and second preferred embodiments mentioned above, the transfer device 100 or 100-2 is guided from the cassette 61 to the processing unit 2 or 2-2. In contrast, in the first Fig. In the modification shown in Figure 30, the transfer device 100 or 100-2 is guided from one of the plurality of storage trays 302 to the processing unit 2 or 2-2, in which the plurality of storage trays 302 are circulated by the conveying device 301. Fig. The cutting blade 21, which is held on the transfer device 100, or the dressing board, which is held on the transfer device 100-2, are not shown.

[0104] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 or 100-2 according to the first modification can produce a similar effect to that of the first preferred embodiment. That is, the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 or 2-2 by using the transfer unit 80 for use in transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be reduced. Second variation

[0105] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a second modification of the first and second preferred embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 31 is a side view showing the construction of a cutting device and its surrounding equipment for carrying out the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the second modification. Fig. 31 The parts that are essentially the same as those of the first and second preferred embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0106] In the cutting blade change procedure according to the second modification, an automatic transfer system 400, which is in Fig. Figure 31 is used to feed a cassette 61 to the cutting device 1 or 1-2. The remaining design is the same as that of the first and second preferred embodiments. The automatic transfer system 400 serves to guide the cassette 61, which supports the transfer device 100 or 100-2, to or from the upper surface of the cassette lift 60 of the cutting device 1 or 1-2. In the second embodiment, the cassette 61 is provided with an upper projection 64.

[0107] In the second embodiment, the automatic transfer system 400 employs an overhead hoist transfer (OHT) device, which includes a transfer path 401 provided on the ceiling of the manufacturing equipment, an assembly section 402 configured to move along the transfer path 401 to hold the upper projection 64 of the cassette 61, and a control unit (not shown) configured by a computer to control the movement state of the assembly section 402. In the second embodiment, another cassette 61 can be stored in the cassette hoist 60. That is, two cassettes 61 are arranged vertically, spaced apart from each other in the Z-direction. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described in [reference to relevant document]. Fig. The version shown in 31 is limited. The lower cassette 61, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 31, the cassette elevator 60 can be inserted into or removed from it in a horizontal direction via a side opening (not shown). In the present invention, the automatic transfer system 400 is not limited to such an OHT, but can be any system that uses an unmanned transfer vehicle, such as an overhead shuttle (OHS), an automatically guided vehicle (AGV), and a rail-guided vehicle (RGV).

[0108] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 or 100-2 according to the second modification can produce a similar effect to that of the first preferred embodiment. That is, the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 or 2-2 by using the transfer unit 80 for transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be reduced.

[0109] Furthermore, the cassette 61, which stores the transfer device 100 or 100-2, will be guided to or from the cutting device 1 or 1-2 by the automatic transfer system 400 in accordance with the second modification, so that the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be automatically supplied as a consumable component. Third variation

[0110] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a third modification of the first and second preferred embodiments is now described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 32 is a perspective view showing an essential part of a clamping table in a cutting device for performing the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the third modification. Fig. 33 is a perspective view, which corresponds to the view of the Fig. 32 is similar and represents a state in which the transfer device is held against the clamping table by a vacuum. In the Fig. 32 and Fig. 33 The parts that are essentially the same as those of the first and second preferred embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0111] In the third variation, the cutting device 1 or 1-2 closes, as in Fig. Figure 32 shows no transfer device holding elements 15. The remaining design is the same as that of the first and second preferred embodiments. In the Fig. 32 and Fig. In the cutting device 1 or 1-2 shown in Figure 33, the transfer device 100 or 100-2 is held against the holding surface 11 of the clamping table 10 by a vacuum, and the circumferential section of the transfer device 100 or 100-2 is clamped by the clamps 12. Fig. 32 and Fig. 33 The cutting blades 21, which are held by the transfer device 100, or the dressing boards 110, which are held by the transfer device 100-2, are not shown.

[0112] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 or 100-2 according to the third modification can produce a similar effect to that of the first preferred embodiment. That is, the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 or 2-2 by using the transfer unit 80 for transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be reduced. Fourth variation

[0113] A cutting blade changing method and a transfer device in accordance with a fourth modification of the first and second preferred embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. Figure 34 is a perspective view showing the construction of a cassette lift in a cutting device for performing the cutting blade change procedure in accordance with the fourth modification. Fig. 34 The parts that are essentially the same as those of the first and second preferred embodiments are identified by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0114] At the in Fig. In the cutting device 1 or 1-2 shown in Figure 34, the cassette lift 60 includes an inspection unit 65 for storing and inspecting the workpiece 200, and the transfer device 100 or 100-2 is stored in the inspection unit 65. The remaining design is the same as that of the first and second preferred embodiments. In the Fig. In the cutting device 1 or 1-2 shown in Figure 34, the transfer device 100 of the 100-2 is removed from or inserted into the inspection unit 65 of the cassette lift 60. Fig. 34 The cutting blades 21, which are held by the transfer device 100, or the dressing board 110, which is held by the transfer device 100-2, are not shown.

[0115] The cutting blade changing method and the transfer device 100 or 100-2 according to the fourth modification can produce a similar effect to that of the first preferred embodiment. That is, the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be automatically fed to the machining unit 2 or 2-2 by using the transfer unit 80 for transferring the workpiece 200, without adding any special transfer mechanism. As a result, the number of steps required to replace the cutting blade 21 or the dressing board 110 can be reduced.

[0116] The present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments and modifications mentioned above, but rather numerous other modifications can be implemented without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. Although, in the first preferred embodiment, the transfer device 100, which holds the cutting blades 21, is stored in the cassette 61, and in the second preferred embodiment, the transfer device 100-2, which holds the planing boards 110, is stored in the cassette 61, for example, both the transfer device 100, which holds the cutting blades 21, and the transfer device 100-2, which holds the planing boards 110, can be stored in the same cassette 61.

[0117] Although the cutting blade 21 is attached to the spindle 23 by means of the fastening nut 26 in the preferred embodiments above, each cutting unit can also have a vacuum spindle configured to hold the cutting blade 21 in place by applying a vacuum. In this case, the blade changing unit 3 can dispense with the nut holder 32. Furthermore, the nut holder 32 is configured such that the fastening nut 26 is held by the retaining elements 330, and the blade clamping device 34 is configured such that the cutting blade 21 is held in place by applying a vacuum in the preferred embodiments above. As an alternative, both the nut holder 32 and the blade clamping device 34 can employ retaining elements. Alternatively, both the nut holder 32 and the blade clamping device 34 can utilize a vacuum.

Claims

[1] Transfer device (100) for a cutting device (1), wherein the cutting device (1) comprises a machining unit (2) which has at least one clamping table (10) for holding a workpiece (200), a transfer means (80) for feeding the workpiece (200) to the machining unit (2) and a cutting blade changing means (3) for changing a cutting blade (21); wherein the transfer device (100) is set up for use in transferring a new cutting blade (21) as a replacement component to the machining unit (2); the transfer device (100) has a plurality of receiving sections (101), each configured to receive the new cutting blade (21) and the cutting blade (21) replaced by the cutting blade changing means (3); and the transfer device (100) is set up to be transferred by the transfer means (80) to transfer the workpiece (200). [2] Transfer device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit (2) further comprises a spindle (23) and the cutting blade (21) which is detachably attached to the spindle (23). [3] Transfer device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transfer device (100) is configured to be positioned above the clamping table (10). [4] Cutting blade changing method for a cutting device (1) comprising a machining unit (2) comprising at least one clamping table (100) for holding a workpiece (200), a transfer means (80) which feeds the workpiece (200) to the machining unit (2), and a cutting blade changing means (3) which changes a cutting blade (21); wherein the cutting blade changing method uses a transfer device (100) having a plurality of receiving sections (101) each configured to receive a new cutting blade (21) as a replacement component and the cutting blade (21) replaced by the cutting blade changing means (3), wherein the cutting blade changing method comprises: a transfer step (ST1) involving the transfer of the transfer device (100) previously stored in a cassette (61) to the processing unit (2) by using the transfer means (80) in a state in which the new cutting blade (21) is received in one of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100); after performing the transfer step (ST1) a transfer device holding step (ST2) with holding the transfer device (100) above the clamping table (10) by using a transfer device holding means (15); After performing the transfer device holding step (ST2), a removal step (ST3) is performed, involving the removal of the cutting blade (21) from the processing unit (2) by using the cutting blade changing means (3), and next, the placement of the removed cutting blade (21) in another of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100); After performing the removal step (ST3), an assembly step (ST4) is carried out, involving the removal of the new cutting blade (21) from one of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100) using the cutting blade changing device (3), and next, the attachment of the new cutting blade (21) to the machining unit (2); and After performing the assembly step (ST4), a return step (ST5) is performed, involving the return of the transfer device (100) from the machining unit (2) to the cassette (61) by using the transfer means (80) in a state in which the cutting blade (21) removed from the machining unit (2) is received in the other of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100). [5] Cutting blade changing method according to claim 4, wherein the transfer device (100) is arranged to be positioned above the clamping table (10). [6] Transfer device (100) for a cutting device (1), wherein the cutting device (1) comprises a machining unit (2) which has at least one clamping table (10) for holding a workpiece (200), a transfer means (80) for feeding the workpiece (200) to the machining unit (2) and a change means (3) for changing a dressing board (110); wherein the transfer device (100) is set up for use in transferring a new dressing board (110) as a replacement component to the machining unit (2); the transfer device (100) has a plurality of receiving sections (101), each configured to receive the new dressing board (110) and the dressing board (110) replaced by the interchangeable means (3); and the transfer device (100) is set up to be transferred by the transfer means (80) to transfer the workpiece (200). [7] Board-changing method for a cutting device (1) comprising a machining unit (2) having at least one clamping table (100) for holding a workpiece (200), a transfer means (80) which feeds the workpiece (200) to the machining unit (2), and a change means (3) which changes a board (110); wherein the planing board exchange method uses a transfer device (100) having a plurality of receiving sections (101) each configured to receive a new planing board (110) as a replacement component and the planing board (110) exchanged by the exchange means (3), wherein the planing board exchange method comprises: a transfer step (ST1) involving the transfer of the transfer device (100) previously stored in a cassette (61) to the processing unit (2) by using the transfer means (80) in a state in which the new dressing board (110) is received in one of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100); after performing the transfer step (ST1) a transfer device holding step (ST2) with holding the transfer device (100) above the clamping table (10) by using a transfer device holding means (15); After performing the transfer device holding step (ST2), a removal step (ST3) is performed, involving the removal of the dressing board (110) from the machining unit (2) by using the changer (3), and next, the placement of the removed dressing board (110) in another of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100); After performing the removal step (ST3), an assembly step (ST4) is carried out, involving the removal of the new dressing board (110) from one of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100) by using the changer (3), and next attaching the new dressing board (110) to the machining unit (2); and After performing the assembly step (ST4), a return step (ST5) is performed, involving the return of the transfer device (100) from the machining unit (2) to the cassette (61) by using the transfer means (80) in a state in which the dressing board (110) removed from the machining unit (2) is received in the other of the receiving sections (101) of the transfer device (100).

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