Component feeding device, component feeding method and surface mounting machine

Abstract

Component feeding device comprising a main body (51) provided with an insertion region (53) into which a component feeding belt (60) holding components is inserted and which is configured to feed the components by sending the component feeding belt (60), which is inserted into the main body (51) via the insertion region (53), in a longitudinal direction (X) of the component feeding belt (60), wherein the device comprises: a belt support which can be inserted into the insertion region (53) while supporting the component feeding belt (60);and a clamping mechanism configured to clamp and hold at least a part of a supported part of the component feed belt (60), which is supported by the belt support, in relation to the belt support, wherein the component feed belt (60) is inserted into the main body (51) by inserting the belt support into the insertion region (53), the component feed belt (60) being held by the clamping mechanism.

Description

[TECHNICAL FIELD]

[0001] The invention relates to a component feeding device and a component feeding method for feeding components by sending a component feeding belt that holds the components, and a surface assembly machine equipped with the aforementioned component feeding device, and in particular a technique for inserting a new component feeding belt into a main body.

[0002] Reference is made in this document in its entirety to the disclosure of Japanese patent application No. 2016-90289, filed on April 28, 2016, comprising a description, drawings and claims. [GENERAL STATE OF THE ART]

[0003] Numerous surface mount machines for mounting components, such as integrated circuits (ICs) and capacitors, onto a board are conventionally provided. In a surface mount machine, a component feeder is used to feed the components. For example, a component feeder described in patent reference 1 is provided with a carrier tape loading unit for receiving a carrier tape (corresponding to a "component feeder tape" of the invention) that holds components. The carrier tape, inserted into this carrier tape loading unit, is sent to a component pickup unit to feed the components after being temporarily set to readiness. [List of Counterarguments][Patent Literature]

[0004] [PTL 1] JP 2011-211169A [BRIEF OVERVIEW][TECHNICAL TASK]

[0005] In the conventional device, as described above, an operator inserts the carrier belt into the carrier belt loading unit through an opening (which can also be referred to as an inlet or slot) provided in a housing of the component feeding device. Insertion can be difficult in some cases, depending on the operator's posture. Furthermore, the opening may be in the operator's blind spot. Additionally, the opening is set to a minimum required size. If, due to these factors, the operator is clumsy when inserting the carrier belt into the opening, the belt may not advance into the carrier belt loading unit and could be bent or folded.

[0006] Furthermore, components in the surface mounting machine are fed by a multitude of adjacent component feeding devices. Therefore, even when a carrier belt is inserted into one component feeding device, the operator must also insert the carrier belt into other component feeding devices that are held adjacent to that single component. An improvement in machinability was desired.

[0007] This invention was made with regard to the aforementioned problem and aims to provide a technique that is able to easily insert a component feed belt into a main body of a component feed device without deforming the component feed belt. [SOLUTION TO THE TASK]

[0008] A first aspect of the present invention is a component feeding device comprising a main body provided with an insertion region into which a component feeding belt, holding components, is inserted and configured to feed the components by sending the component feeding belt, which is inserted into the main body via the insertion region, in a longitudinal direction along the component feeding belt. The device comprises: a belt support that can be inserted into the insertion region while supporting the component feeding belt; and a clamping mechanism configured to stack and hold at least a portion of a supported part of the component feeding belt, which is supported by the belt support relative to the belt support, wherein the component feeding belt is inserted into the main body by inserting the belt support into the insertion region, and wherein the component feeding belt is held by the clamping mechanism.

[0009] A second aspect of the present invention is a component feeding method comprising: an insertion step of inserting a component feeding belt, which holds components, into a body via an insertion region of the main body; and a feeding step of feeding the components by sending the component feeding belt, which is inserted into the main body in a longitudinal direction of the component feeding belt, wherein the insertion step comprises: a step of supporting the component feeding belt by a belt support which is insertable into the insertion region and which layers and holds at least a portion of a supported part of the component feeding belt, which is supported by the belt support and a clamping mechanism; and a step of inserting the component feeding belt into the main body by inserting the belt support with the component feeding belt, which is held by the clamping mechanism, into the insertion region.

[0010] A third aspect of the present invention is a surface mounting machine. The machine comprises: the component feeding device described above and a head unit configured to mount the components fed onto a plate by the component feeding device.

[0011] In the invention thus designed, a belt support is provided which can be inserted into the insertion region of the main body. In a state in which the supported part of the component feed belt is supported by the belt support, and at least part of the supported part is held by the clamping mechanism, the component feed belt, together with the belt support, is inserted into the insertion region of the main body. Since the component feed belt is inserted into the main body while constantly supported in this way by the belt support, the component feed belt is inserted stably, thus preventing deformation compared to the conventional technique of simply inserting the component feed belt into the main body of the component feeding device.Moreover, since the component feed belt, which is supported by the belt support, is inserted into the insertion region while being held by the clamping mechanism, the component feed belt is more easily inserted into the main body compared to conventional techniques. [BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION]

[0012] In the invention, as described above, the component feed belt is inserted into the main body by placing the belt support into the insertion region of the main body in such a way that the protected part of the component feed belt is supported by the belt support, and at least a portion of the supported portion is held by the clamping mechanism. Thus, the component feed belt can be easily inserted into the main body of the component feeding device without being deformed.

[0013] All of the numerous elements of each previously described aspect of the invention are not essential, and some of the numerous elements may be expediently modified, deleted, replaced by other new elements, or have limited content that has been partially deleted in order to solve some or all of the aforementioned problems or to achieve some or all of the effects described in this description. Furthermore, some or all of the technical features included in one previously described aspect of the invention may be combined with some or all of the technical features included in another previously described aspect of the invention to obtain an independent embodiment of the invention in order to solve some or all of the aforementioned problems or to achieve some or all of the effects described in this description. List of characters Fig. Figure 1 is a graphic showing a surface mounting machine equipped with component feeding devices according to a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 2 is a partial front view of the surface mounting machine, which is located in Fig. 1 is shown. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the surface mounting machine, which is in Fig. 1 is shown. Fig. Figure 4 is a graphic showing the design of the feed device as an example of the first embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the design of a component feed belt used to feed the components. Fig. 6A and Fig. Figure 6B shows perspective views of the overall design of the tape adjustment unit and the adjustment movement mechanism. Fig. Figure 7A is a side view of the band adjustment unit and the adjustment movement mechanism. Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view along BB of Fig. 7A. Fig. 7C is a cross-sectional view along CC of Fig. 7A. Fig. 7D is a view of the band adjustment unit and adjustment movement mechanism, viewed from behind in the X-axis direction. Fig. Figure 8A is a view showing the band support element when a clamping of the band is released by the lever element. Fig. Figure 8B is a view showing the band support element when the band is clamped by the lever element. Fig. 9A to Fig. Figure 9F are graphics that schematically show the procedure for mounting the component feed belt into the feed device. Fig. Figure 10 is a side view showing a component feeding device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective partial view of the component feeding device, which is located in Fig. 10 is shown. [DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORM]

[0014] Fig. Figure 1 is a graphic showing a surface mounting machine equipped with component feeding devices according to a first embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, Fig. 2 A partial front view of the surface mounting machine, which is located in Fig. 1 is shown. In addition, Fig. 3 a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the surface mounting machine, which is in Fig. Figure 1 shows this surface mounting machine. This surface mounting machine 1 is a device for mounting components that are fed by feed devices. 50(corresponding to an example of a "component feeding device" of the invention) are fed into feeder-type feeding mechanisms. 40 on a circuit board P1 (corresponding to an example of a “plate” of the invention) are mounted, and includes, in addition to the feed device-like feeding mechanisms, 40 a base 10 , a conveyor belt 20 for conveying the circuit board P1 and a component assembly facility 30 for mounting electronic components E1 on the circuit board P1 .

[0015] The base 10 In a top view, it has a rectangular shape. The conveyor belt 20 is based on this 10 parallel to a longitudinal direction of the base 10 A locking plate (not shown) is also provided for securing the circuit board. P1 during the assembly of the electronic components E1on the circuit board P1 below the conveyor belt 20 The following description describes a long lateral direction (lateral direction of Fig. 1) the base 10 and a conveying direction of the circuit board P1 from the conveyor belt 20 referred to as an X-axis direction, a short lateral direction (vertical direction of Fig. 1) the base 10 referred to as a Y-axis direction and a vertical direction (vertical direction of Fig. 2) is referred to as a Z-axis direction.

[0016] The conveyor belt 20 is essentially in a middle position of the base 10 mounted in the Y-axis direction and promotes the circuit board P1 in the conveying direction (X-axis direction). The transport conveyor 20 includes a pair of conveyor belts 22, which are driven to rotate in the conveying direction X. The circuit board P1 is between the two conveyor belts 22 It is placed and is conveyed in the X-axis direction in this state. In this embodiment, the circuit board P1 into a working position (a position defined by a dash-dotted line of Fig. 1 enclosed) based on 10 along the conveyor belts 22 from one side (the right side, which is in Fig. (as shown in 1) is transported in the conveying direction X and to the other side (the left side, which is in Fig. (shown in 1) along the conveyor belts 22 transported out after the circuit board P1 is stopped at the working position and the electronic components E1 are mounted.

[0017] The component assembly facility 30 includes a pair of support frames 31 , a head unit 32and a head unit drive mechanism for driving the head unit 32 The respective support frames 31 are located on both sides of the base 10 in the X-axis direction and extend in the Y-axis direction. The support frame 31 It is equipped with an X-axis servomechanism and a Y-axis servomechanism, which form the head unit drive mechanism. The X-axis and Y-axis servomechanisms are actuated by a control unit in response to an operating command. 80 operated to control or regulate the entire facility, whereby the head unit 32 moved in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction within a specific movable region.

[0018] The Y-axis servo mechanism includes a Y-axis guide rail. 33Y , a Y-axis ball screw 34Y and a Y-axis servo motor 35YIn this Y-axis servo mechanism, the Y-axis guide rail extends 33Y along each support frame 31 Furthermore, the Y-axis ball screw extends 34Y parallel to each Y-axis guide rail 33Y The Y-axis servo motor 35Y is at one end of this Y-axis ball screw 34Y It is mounted and operates in response to a drive command from the control unit. 80 , resulting in a ball nut (not shown) that is connected to the Y-axis ball screw 34Y When engaged in the thread, it moves in the Y-axis direction. A headrest body 36 is fixed to these ball nuts. The headrest body 36 extends in the X-axis direction. The headrest body 36 is attached to the ball nuts to secure two Y-axis guide rails 33Y to bridge, and along the Y-axis guide rails 33Ymovable. Thus, they move when the Y-axis servo motor is excited. 35Y from the control unit 80 The headrest body is controlled or regulated. 36 , which is fixed to the ball nuts, and the head unit 32 , which will be described later, in the Y-axis direction along the Y-axis guide rails 33Y by forward and backward movements of the ball nuts as previously described.

[0019] The X-axis servo mechanism includes an X-axis guide rail. 33X (see Fig. 2), an X-axis ball screw 34X and an X-axis servo motor 35X In this X-axis servo mechanism, the X-axis guide rail extends 33X in the X-axis direction with respect to the headrest body 36 Furthermore, the axis ball screw extends 34X parallel to the X-axis guide rail 33XThe X-axis servo motor 35X is at one end of this X-axis ball screw 34X It is mounted and is activated by the control unit in response to a drive command. 80 operated, thereby creating a ball nut (not shown) which is connected to the X-axis ball screw 34X The head unit is engaged in the thread and moves in the X-axis direction. 32 It is fixed to the ball nuts and moves in the X-axis direction along the X-axis guide rails. 33X , when the above ball nuts move.

[0020] The head unit 32 takes the electronic components E1 out, which are supplied by the feed device-like feeding mechanisms 40 are supplied, which will be described later, and the removed electronic components are reassembled. E1 on the circuit board P1 As in Fig. As shown in section 2, a variety of mounting heads are available.37 for carrying out an assembly operation of electronic components E1 in a row at the head unit 32 transported. Each mounting head 37 jumps from the lower surface of the head unit 32 downwards, and a suction nozzle 38 to draw in the electronic component E1 A vacuum is used at the tip of each mounting head. 37 planned.

[0021] Each mounting head 37 can be powered by an R-axis servo motor 35R rotated around an axis extending in the vertical direction Z ( Fig. 3) Moreover, each mounting head 37 in the vertical direction Z with respect to a frame 32A the head unit 32 by means of the drive of a Z-axis servo motor 35Z raised and lowered ( Fig. 3).

[0022] The head unit 32 is equipped with a plate recognition cameraC1 provided ( Fig. 2) The plate recognition camera C1 is attached to the frame 32A the head unit 32 fixed, with one imaging surface facing downwards, and moves in conjunction with the head unit 32 The plate recognition camera C1 forms an image at any position on the circuit board P1 off, which was stopped at the working position by moving it in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0023] Furthermore, component recognition cameras C2 ( Fig. 1) from the head unit 32 above the base 10 fixed near a mounting position. The component recognition cameras C2 detect intake positions and similar features of the respective electronic components E1 from the intake nozzles 38 by mapping images of the electronic components E1 , which are located at component feed positionsS1 (see Fig. 4, will be described later) from the mounting heads 37 be removed.

[0024] To every part of the surface mounting machine 1 The control unit, which is designed as described above, is the unit responsible for controlling or regulating the system. 80 provided. The control unit. 80 includes an arithmetic processing unit 81 , which is designed by a central processing unit (CPU). Each one is a motor control unit. 82 , a storage unit 83 , an image processing unit 84 , an external input / output unit 85 , a feed communication unit 86 , a display unit 88 and an input unit 89 , is with the arithmetic processing unit 81 tied together.

[0025] The engine control unit82 drives the X-axis servo motor 35X and the Y-axis servo motor 35Y for the head unit 32 and drives the Z-axis servo motor 35Z and the R-axis servo motor 35R for each mounting head 37 according to an assembly program 83A which will be described later. Furthermore, the motor control and regulation unit drives 82 the conveyor 20 according to the assembly program 83A to.

[0026] The storage unit 83 is designed with a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and similar components, and the assembly program 84A and different data 83B are stored within it. The assembly program 83A , which is in the storage unit 83 The stored information includes board information on a production volume of printed circuit boards. P1as assembly targets, component information, encompassing the numbers, types and similar details of the electronic components E1 , which are on the circuit boards P1 to be assembled, and similar things. The various data 83B , which are in the storage unit 83 The stored data includes information about the number and types of electronic components. E1 , which are in the respective feed devices 50 are held in the feed device-like feeding mechanisms 40 and similar items are mounted.

[0027] Each of the imaging signals received by the plate recognition camera C1 and the component recognition cameras C2 The output is sent to the image processing unit. 84 Recorded. In the image processing unit. 84Analysis of component images, plate images, and similar data will be performed based on the image signals recorded by the respective cameras. C1 , C2 executed.

[0028] The external input / output unit 85 It is a so-called interface and is designed to receive detection signals from various sensors. 85A Outputs are provided in a main body of the surface mounting machine 1. Furthermore, the external input / output unit 85 designed to operate various actuators 85B , which are located in the main body of the surface mounting machine 1 are provided for, based on a control signal from the arithmetic processing unit. 81 to control or regulate the output.

[0029] The feed communication unit 86is equipped with a feed device control unit. 59 each feed device 50 connected, which are in the feed device-like feeding mechanism 40 It is mounted and controls or regulates each feed device. 50 all around. The feed device control unit. 59 controls or regulates the drive of a front motor 52A and a rear engine 54A in the feed device 50 by means of a control system or regulation according to the assembly program 83A Furthermore, the feed device control unit is 59 with a belt sensor (not shown) in the feed device 50 It is connected and receives a detection signal output by this belt sensor. The design and operation of the feed device 50 will be described in detail later.

[0030] The display unit 88is designed by a liquid crystal display device or similar, which has a display screen and displays a status of the surface mounting machine 1 and similar information on the display screen. The input unit 89 It is equipped with a keyboard or similar device and receives input from the outside via manual operation.

[0031] Fig. Figure 4 is a graphic showing the design of the feed device as an example of the first embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the design of a component feed belt used to feed the components. In this embodiment, two feed device-like feeding mechanisms are shown. 40 Side by side in the X-axis direction on each of the two sides (the top and bottom sides of) Fig. 1) of the conveyor 20arranged, i.e., the feed device-like feeding mechanisms 40 are arranged in a total of four positions. Each feed-device-type feeding mechanism 40 is designed with a common exchange slide that accommodates a variety of feed devices 50 features components that are detachably mounted in a row. Each feed-device-type feeding mechanism. 40 is equipped with a variety of drum support sections (not shown) and component feed belts. 60 , which are wound in a drum of the drum support sections, can be used for the feed devices 50 be sent.

[0032] The component feed belt 60 is made of a foil-shaped carrier strip that is long in one direction 62 and an upper band 64 assembled, for example on the carrier tape 62 liable, as in Fig. 5 shown. Hollow component housing sections. 62A , which are open at the top, are located at a fixed interval in a longitudinal direction of the band in the carrier band 62 The electronic components are planned. E1 are in the respective component accommodation sections 62A housed and maintained in a condition that is protected by the upper band 64 is closed. Moreover, vertically penetrating access holes are present. 62B at a fixed interval along an edge portion of one side of the carrier tape 62 planned.

[0033] The component feed belt designed in this way 60 is caused by the operation of the feed device 50 in response to an operating command from the control unit 80 to a component feed position S1 promoted after it is sent from the drum support section and into the feed device 50has been adjusted. In this way, the electronic component can E1 , which is located in the component housing section 62A is housed, to be supplied. When describing the design of the feed device 50 A side will be attached to the electronic component E1 is fed (the side that is fed to the conveyor belt) 20 is facing the right side of Fig. 4), for descriptive purposes referred to as a front side, and an opposite side is referred to as a back side. In addition, a direction of the feed device is 50 , which is perpendicular to both a front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), as a width direction (X-axis direction) of the feed device 50 designated.

[0034] The feed device-like feeding mechanism 40is equipped with a feed device assembly unit 42 equipped with, and a variety of feed devices 50 can be used in the feed unit assembly unit 42 They are mounted while aligned in a row in the X-axis direction. Each feed unit 50 is equipped with two transmitter units 52 , 54 in relation to a main body 51 provided which are shaped to be long in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction), as in Fig. 4 shown, to illustrate the component feed belt 60 , that the electronic components E1 holds, towards the component feed position S1 to send. Although a cover element 511 on the main body 51 Once mounted, the cover element 511 cut off to determine the configurations of both transmission units 52 , 54 from Fig. 4 to show.

[0035] Of these, the transmitting unit 52 a front transmitter unit located on the front part of the main body 51 is provided for, and includes a front engine 52A , a front gear group 52B , which consists of a multitude of gears, a front gear ring 52C , located in an upper part of a front end of the main body 51 is arranged, and an intermediate gear ring 52D As in Fig. Shown in section 3, this is the front engine. 52A electrically with the feed device control unit 59 connected, and the feed device control unit. 59 controls or regulates the drive of the front motor 52A in response to an operating command from the control unit 80 This causes the front engine to 52A , according to the aforementioned assembly program 83Ato be operated. Then the energy of the front motor will be used. 52A via the front gear group 52B to the front sprocket 52C and the intermediate gear ring 52D transferred to the front sprocket 52C and the intermediate gear ring 52D to turn the teeth 52E , which have the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 The teeth that need to be brought into action are located at the same interval on the outer periphery of this anterior tooth ring. 52C formed. Moreover, the teeth 52F , which have the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 to be brought into engagement at the same interval on the outer periphery of this interproximal ring 52D formed, similar to the front tooth ring 52C The front transmitter unit 52 sends the component feed belt 60 , which is from the rear transmitter unit 54was sent to the component feed position S1 in part of the front end of the feed device 50 by rotating the front gear ring 52C and the intermediate gear ring 52D with the teeth 52E of the front sprocket 52C , which have the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 are involved. Furthermore, an exposure mechanism (not shown) is required to expose the electronic component. E1 by cutting or peeling off the upper band 64 of the component feed belt 60 , which is located between the intermediate gear ring 52D and the front sprocket 52C moved, provided between these gear rings.

[0036] The rear transmitter unit 54 includes a rear engine 54A , a rear gear set 54B , which consists of a multitude of gears, and a rear gear ring54C , located in an upper part of a rear end of the main body 51 is arranged. The rear transmitter unit 54 It is basically designed similarly to the front transmitter unit. 52 In particular, the rear engine 54A electrically with the feed device control unit 59 connected, as in Fig. 3 shown, and the feed device control unit. 59 controls or regulates the drive of the rear motor 54A in response to an operating command from the control unit 80 This causes the rear motor to 54A , according to the aforementioned assembly program 83A to be operated. Then the energy of the rear motor will be used. 54A via the rear gear group 54B to the rear sprocket 54C transferred to the rear sprocket 54C with teeth 54D of the rear sprocket54C to turn, which have the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 are engaged. In this way, the component feed belt is 60 via a conveyor belt 56 to the front transmitter unit 52 sent.

[0037] As just described, in this embodiment the component feed belt 60 into the rear transmitter unit 54 set up, from the rear transmitter unit 54 to the front transmitter unit 52 sent and also from the front transmitting unit 52 forwarded, thereby the electronic components E1 , which are in the component feed belt 60 are located at the component feed position S1 can be promoted. Moreover, as previously described, if the teeth 52E of the front sprocket 52C with the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60are involved, the electronic components E1 only from the front transmitter unit 52 to the component feed position S1 be promoted without harming the teeth 54D of the rear sprocket 54C with the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 are engaged, i.e., in a free state. Furthermore, the component feed belt can 60 , which was previously in the feed device 50 (hereinafter referred to as "previous band 60A") was set up, only by means of the front transmitter unit 52 to be sent, and a component feed belt 60 (hereinafter referred to as "subsequent volume 60B"), which is in the feed device 50 has been set, if a trailing end part of the preceding band 60A the feed device 50 approaches, as will be described later, from the rear transmitter unit 54towards the front transmitter unit 52 to be transmitted. In particular, in this embodiment, the front and rear transmitting units 52 , 54 The conveying of the component feed belts is planned. 60 to enable the following three modes. • First belt feed mode: One component feed belt 60 is from the rear transmitter unit 54 to the front transmitter unit 52 sent, and this component feed belt 60 is from the front transmitter unit 52 to the component feed position S1 sent. • Second belt feed mode: A component feed belt 60 is only transmitted by the front transmitter unit 52 to the component feed position S1 sent. • Third tape transmission mode: The following tape 60B is from the rear transmitter unit 54 to the front transmitter unit 52sent, regardless of whether the previous tape was sent 60A to the component feed position S1 only via the front transmitter unit 52 .

[0038] Moreover, the main body 51 from the rear transmitter unit 54 towards the front transmitter unit 52 with the conveyor belt 56 provided as in Fig. 4 shown to enable the execution of the three transmission modes described above, and with an insertion region 53 for inserting the component feed belt 60 into the conveyor belt 56 provided. In particular, in this embodiment, the insertion region is distributed. 53 conical in the vertical direction Z from a position that corresponds to the belt length 56 with a rear end part of the main body 51 is connected.

[0039] In this embodiment, a tip of a band adjustment unit 55, comprising a pair of band support elements 551, 552, provided to be inserted into the insertion region 53 to be usable and detachable from it. By inserting the band adjustment unit. 55 into the introduction region 53 can the component feed belt 60 via the rear transmitter unit 54 be sent while being lifted from below by the band support elements 551 , 552 is supported. In addition, the component feed belt 60 to a page below the insertion region 53 moved and by retracting (detaching) the band adjustment unit 55 from the import region 53 and the release of the support from the band support elements 551 , 552 in a free state with respect to the rear transmitting unit 54 discontinued. The designs and operations of the band setting unit 55 and an adjustment mechanism 70 to move the tape adjustment unit55 are described below with reference to the drawings.

[0040] Fig. 6A and Fig. Figure 6B shows perspective views of the overall design of the tape adjustment unit and the adjustment movement mechanism, where Fig. 6A shows a support release state in which the support of the band is released, and Fig. 6B shows a supported state in which supporting the ligament is possible. Moreover, Fig. 7A a side view of the tape adjustment unit and the adjustment movement mechanism, Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view along BB of Fig. 7A, Fig. 7C is a cross-sectional view along CC of Fig. 7A, and Fig. 7D is a view of the band adjustment unit and the adjustment movement mechanism, viewed from the rear in the X-axis direction (left side of Fig. 7A). The tape adjustment unit 55 consists of the pair of band support elements 551 ,552 , which are in a width direction (Y-axis direction) of the component feed belt 60 are attached as previously described. The adjustment mechanism 70 is planned to use the band support elements 551 , 552 in a longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the band adjustment unit 55 to move each other in one piece and the band support elements 551 , 552 to move towards each other and away from each other.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in section 4, the adjustment movement mechanism includes 70 a fixation section 71 , which is attached to the main body 51 is fixed, shaft elements 72 , 73 , which are movable forwards and backwards along the X-axis direction on an opposite side of the component feed position (left side of Fig. 4) with regard to the fixation section 71 are provided, and plate elements 74 , 75, which are derived from tip parts (end parts on the opposite side of the component feed position) of the shaft elements 72 , 73 Raise upwards. A space for movement. 711 , in which the end parts of the shaft elements 72 , 73 Move horizontally along the side of the component feed position, extending in the X-axis direction within the fixing section. 71 Moreover, as in Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B shown, a slot 712 in the X-axis direction, to the above range of motion 711 in the fixation section 71 to be facing it, and a protruding part 721 , which is from the end part of the shaft element 72 It is inserted at the component feed position, protruding upwards. Furthermore, this slot 712 essentially L-shaped, as in Fig. 7B shown, and at a right angle in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the component feed belt 60 on the opposite side of the component feed position (left side of Fig. 7B) of the slot 712 bent. Here is the slot. 712 completed, exhibiting a groove width that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the projecting part. 721 , and the shaft element 72 It is displaceable in the X-axis direction, while it exhibits a rotational movement that is limited, except at a bending section. Furthermore, when the protruding part 721 a bending section is reached, a displacement movement of the shaft element 72 towards the opposite side of the component feed position, where it stopped, whereas the shaft element 72rotatable about an axis of rotation that is parallel to the longitudinal direction in an angular range equivalent to an increase in the groove width on the bending part.

[0042] The other shaft element 73 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation that extends vertically in the longitudinal direction below the shaft element. 72 extends, and an end part of it on the opposite side of the component feed position (left side of Fig. 7B) is via a coupler 78 to the end part of the shaft element 72 This coupler is coupled on the opposite side of the component feed position. 78 includes a blocking element 781 , which is attached to the shaft element 73 is fixed, and a protruding element 782 , which is from the shaft element 72 towards the blocking element 781 protrudes, as in Fig. 7C shown. A lower end part of the protrusion element. 782It is finished in an essentially hemispherical surface. Furthermore, it has a recess. 783 in an upper surface of the blocking element 781 formed to form the lower end part of the projection element 782 to comply. By fitting the lower end part of the protruding element. 782 into the recess 783 of the blocking element 781 The shaft elements will be 72 , 73 coupled together.

[0043] Moreover, the shaft elements 72 , 73 by configuring the coupler 78 rotatable in opposite directions as described above. If the shaft element 72 clockwise in the plane of Fig. 7C is rotated by an operator, as described later, the protruding element 782 into the recess 783 of the blocking element 781offset and the shaft element 73 rotates counterclockwise around the axis of rotation, which extends in the longitudinal direction X along with the blocking element 781 rotates. If, in this way, an external force imparts a rotational force to a shaft element. 72 As the other shaft element is applied, it rotates. 73 in a coordinated manner in an opposite direction, the plate elements 74 , 75 , which are parallel to each other, are connected to the coupler in a flexible manner 78 as a center opened, and the band support elements 551 , 552 , which are located at the upper end parts of the plate elements 74 , 75 They are secured and move in the lateral direction Y of the component feed belt. 60 away from each other to release the band support, as in Fig. 6A is shown. On the other hand, if an external force is applied to the shaft element... 72When applied in the opposite direction, the plate elements reverse. 74 , 75 , which are opened in a hinged manner by the rotational force opposite to the force mentioned above, back into parallel positions, and the band support elements 551 , 552 They are integrated to return to a state where the belt can be supported. The external force mentioned above refers to a force applied by the operator to the belt support elements. 551 , 552 and the lever element 553 is applied to the band support element 551 is coupled. Moreover, if the plate elements 74 , 75 are closed in order to be parallel to each other, an interval between the plate elements 74 , 75 wider than the width of the component feed belt 60 , so that the plate elements 74 , 75can move smoothly when the component feed belt 60 below the band support elements 551 , 552 is located.

[0044] As just described, the band support elements can 551 , 552 between a support state ( Fig. 6B), in which the band support elements 551 , 552 are integrated to connect the component feed belt 60 to support from below, and a non-support state ( Fig. 6A), can be switched by changing the band support elements 551 , 552 are separated to support the component feed belt 60 to solve when the band support elements 551 , 552 from the import region 53 are separated while they are removed from the adjustment movement mechanism. 70 are guided. The band support elements 551 , 552exhibit an essentially symmetrical structure, except for the presence or absence of the lever element. 553 Thus, the band support element 551 , which the lever element coupled to it 553 exhibits, as described below, where the same structural components are designated by the same reference numerals and for the band support element 552 cannot be described.

[0045] Fig. 8A is a view showing the band support element when a band clamp is released from the lever element, and Fig. Figure 8B is a view showing the band support element when a band clamp is performed by the lever element. In each figure, a view viewed from one side in the Y-axis direction and a view viewed from the other side are drawn parallel to each other. The band support element 551 includes a basic element 554 , which is located at an upper end part of the plate element 76fixed, a movable element 555 , which is movable in the vertical direction Z above the base element 554 is attached, and a spring element 556 , that between the upper surface of the base element 554 and the lower surface of the moving element 555 The movable element is attached and designed 555 upwards in relation to the basic element 554 to pre-tension. Of these, the upper surface of the movable element serves this purpose. 555 as a belt support surface for supporting an end part of the component feed belt 60 in the lateral direction Y from below. In particular, the component feed belt 60 supported by the lower surface (corresponding to “a main surface” of the invention) of an end part (corresponding to an example of a “supported part”) of the component feed belt 60 on the movable element 555is placed. Moreover, the movable element 555 by means of the spring element 556 upwardly pre-tensioned, i.e. in a normal direction to the upper surface (corresponding to "the other main surface" of the invention) of the component feed belt 60 , and a contact wall that rises slightly upwards is located on the upper surface of this movable element. 555 formed to power the component feed belt 60 to limit in the lateral direction. It is particularly important to note that a contact wall that rises slightly upwards should be located on the upper surface of the moving element. 555 is formed to accommodate the component feed belt 60 to be limited in the lateral direction. A contact wall is also attached to a movable element. 555 of the band support element 552 formed and, if the pair of band support elements 551 , 552In the support state, as will be described later, end parts of the lower surface of the component feed belt are formed. 60 in the lateral direction Y in the upper surface areas of the respective band support elements 551 , 552 The components, which are layered between the two contact walls, are supported from below. An interval between the two contact walls is larger than one dimension of the component feed belt. 60 in the width direction and can effectively prevent the component feed belt from 60 offset in the width direction and by the band adjustment unit 55 is replaced. Moreover, in a state where the band support elements 551 , 552 are closed and kept in contact to control the component feed belt 60 to support the surfaces for supporting the component feed belt 60 adjusted, essentially no gap between the two band support elements551 , 552 to form. Even in a state where the tape adjustment unit 55 in the main body 51 is set up as in Fig. As shown in 9F, the lever element can 553 pushed downwards to access the component feed belt 60 into the gear ring 54C to insert and fit. At this time, since there is no gap between the surfaces of the band support elements, 551 , 552 there are those that feed the component conveyor belt 60 To support the components, the component feed belt can simply be inserted along these surfaces.

[0046] Moreover, a shaft support part jumps out 557 in a central part of the upper surface of the base element 554 forward and pivotably supports an end part of the lever element. 553 . At this one end part of the lever element 553A pin jumps forward in the Y-axis direction at a position that is slightly offset from one shaft support position towards the other end part, and becomes part of the movable element. 555 locked. Furthermore, a clamping plate springs open. 558 in the Y-axis direction towards the upper surface (belt support surface) of the moving element 555 in a central part of the lever element 553 before. Thus, if no external force is applied to the lever element 553 acts on the movable element 555 through a preload force of the spring element 556 pushed upwards to move into a position that is in Fig. 8A is shown. Moreover, the lever element rotates 553 according to this movement, and the other end part of the lever element 553 It is in a position where it is angled upwards. Furthermore, the clamping plate is 558in a so-called non-clamping state, in order to be removed from the belt support surface of the moving element 555 to be separate and not the component feed belt 60 to clamp down.

[0047] On the other hand, as indicated by a white arrow in Fig. 8B shows when the operator uses the other end part of the lever element. 553 against the preload force of the spring element 556 pushes downwards, the lever element 553 rotated around the above shaft-supported part to the movable element 555 to be pushed downwards. Furthermore, a so-called clamping state is established, in which the clamping plate... 558 is located in a clamping position to come into contact with the component feed belt 60 to come, and the component feed belt 60 in conjunction with the moving element 555 clamps vertically. When the operator uses the lever element 553When the spring element releases from this state, it returns to the non-clamping state due to the preload force. 556 ( Fig. 8A). In this way, the clamping plate functions 558 as a clamping element that is able to clamp the component feed belt 60 against the band support element 551 to press.

[0048] Moreover, the lever element 553 In addition to a clamping switching function for switching between the clamping state and the non-clamping state, a support switching function for switching the band adjustment unit. 55 between a belt support state and a support release state, in which the belt support state is released by receiving an external force in the Y-axis direction. That is, when the operator applies a force in one direction to release the lever element 553 towards the band support element 552 (direction towards a lower right side in Fig. 6A) to move out of the Y-axis directions, with the entire band adjustment unit 55 from the main body 51 is pulled out, as in Fig. 6A and Fig. The band support element is shown in 6B. 551 at a position below one end of the component feed belt 60 in the lateral direction Y (corresponding to a “first support position” of the invention), as in Fig. 6B shows one end part of the component feed belt. 60 to be supported from below. Furthermore, the band support element is located there. 552 in coordination with the movement of the band support element 551 at a position below the other end part of the component feed belt 60 (corresponding to a “second support position” of the invention), as in Fig. 6B shows the other end part of the component feed belt. 60 to support from below. Since the pair of band support elements 551 , 552is close to each other and in this way the component feed belt 60 supported, i.e., in the belt support state, the component feed belt can 60 be stably supported.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment a coupler 57 This coupler is designed to stabilize the ligament support state. 57 consists of a magnet 571 , which is attached to the basic element 554 of the band support element 551 is secured, and a magnet 572 , which is attached to the basic element 554 of the band support element 552 is ensured, as in Fig. 7D shown, and couples the band support elements 551 , 552 through a magnetic attraction between the two magnets 571 , 572A magnetic attraction is generated when the magnets are facing each other proximally in the band support state. This attraction can be generated if one of the two magnets is replaced by a magnetic body.

[0050] If the operator applies a force greater than the aforementioned magnetic attraction force in one direction to move the lever element 553 from the band support element 552 (in a direction towards a lower left side of Fig. 6B) to separate from the Y-axis directions, the band support element moves 551 to a first non-support position, which extends from the first support position in one direction towards an opposite side of the band support element 552 is separated from the Y-axis directions. Furthermore, the band support element 552 in coordination with the aforementioned movement of the adjustment mechanism 70moved to a second non-support position, which is moved from the second support position in one direction towards an opposite side of the band support element 551 is separated from the Y-axis directions. In this way, the pair of band support elements is 551 , 552 from the positions below the component feed belt 60 withdrawn, thereby reducing the support for the component feed belt 60 will be resolved.

[0051] As just described, according to this embodiment, three operations are possible, i.e. • a switching operation for setting and releasing the tape support state; • Operation of inserting / removing the band adjustment unit 55 into and from the import region 53 ; • a switching operation for switching between the clamping state and the non-clamping state; simultaneously in parallel by means of a push-button operation of the lever element 553performed by the operator, resulting in excellent operational capability.

[0052] Next, the assembly of a new component feed belt will take place. 60 into the feed device 50 , which do not yet have a component feed belt installed in them 60 exhibits and feeds components, and an operation of setting a subsequent belt 60 during the feeding of the components by means of a preceding belt 60A and preparing for the next belt change in the surface assembly machine 1, which is designed as described, with reference to Fig. 9A to Fig. 9F described.

[0053] Fig. 9A to Fig. Figures 9F are diagrams that schematically illustrate the procedure for mounting the component feed belt into the feed device. The dashed line TP0 in these figures indicates a transmission path along which the component feed belt 60 is sent to the component feed position S1 along the belt section 56. Furthermore, the dashed line TP1 indicates a transmission path formed in an upper compartment of the insertion region 53 by inserting the belt adjustment unit 55 into the insertion region 53, in which the component feed belt 60 is sent to the belt section 56, and, in this embodiment, this transmission path is beveled downwards towards the belt section 56. Additionally, the dashed line TP2 indicates a transmission path formed in a lower compartment of the insertion region 53, in which the component feed belt 60 is sent to the belt section 56 only by means of the front transmission unit 52.

[0054] In the case of setting up a component feed belt 60into an empty feed device 50 from the multitude of feed devices 50 , which are in the feed unit assembly unit 42 Once mounted, the following manual operation is performed by the operator. First, as indicated by a white arrow from Fig. 9A shows the tape adjustment unit 55 this feed device 50 from the import region 53 pulled out and from the main body 51 replaced, whereby the feed device 50 in the feed unit assembly unit 42 is mounted. In this detached state, the component feed belt 60 sent from the drum support section (not shown), and the tip of the component feed belt 60 is aligned with a marking MK, which is located on a tip part of the tape adjustment unit. 55 is provided for, and on the upper surfaces of the pair of band support elements 551 ,552 placed, which are connected via the coupler 57 are coupled to one another. In this embodiment, there are stepped parts attached to the upper surfaces of the respective movable elements. 555 are provided, more precisely end surface positions of the contact walls on the side of the component feed position. S1 when the MK marking is set. If the tape setting unit 55 into the introduction region 53 When used, the MK marking can be positioned slightly above the rear gear ring. 54C reach beyond, and the leading end part of the component feed belt 60 can be located in a position directly below the rear sprocket. 54C This allows the teeth to... 54D of the rear sprocket 54C stable with the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 are engaged, and a length of a leading end part of the component feed belt60 , which is in the main body 51 It is used when set to a fixed value. As just described, the MK marking acts as an index element indicating that the leading end position is in the longitudinal direction of the leading end part (supported part) of the component feeder belt. 60 , which is from the band adjustment unit 55 is supported, and the setting position and setting length of the component feed belt 60 with regard to the band adjustment unit 55 They can be kept consistently constant throughout. A different structure than the stepped parts can be used as the MK marking. Furthermore, the MK marking can be used on the band adjustment unit. 55 to be added.

[0055] If the component feed belt 60 When placed in this way, the two end parts of the component feed belt are 60 in the lateral direction Y from below from the band support elements551 , 552 supported. The following is shown as indicated by an arrow F from Fig. 9B is specified, the component feed belt 60 from the clamping plate 558 and the movable element 555 by pressing down the lever element 553 clamped, and the band adjustment unit 55 will be directed towards the introduction region 53 The component feed belt is moved while maintaining its clamping state. As just described, this embodiment incorporates a so-called presetting process for the component feed belt. 60 executed to connect the component feed belt 60 using the tape adjustment unit 55 to position and clamp at a predetermined position before the component feed belt 60 into the main body 51 the feed device 50 is used.

[0056] If the tape adjustment unit 55 , in which the component feed belt 60is preset to the introduction region 53 When used, the leading end part of the component feed belt is used. 60 at the position directly below the rear sprocket 54C positioned as in Fig. 9C is shown. The following will occur when the lever element is pressed down. 553 The movable elements are solved. 555 moved upwards by forces of the spring elements 556 to be pre-tensioned to secure the leading end part of the component feed belt 60 against the rear sprocket 54C to press. In this way the teeth 54D of the rear sprocket 54C with the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 brought into action, and the lower surface of the component feed belt 60 is driven by the moving elements 555 elastically supported. Thus, the component feed belt can 60 from the rear transmitter unit54 stable transmission while applying pressure that affects the component feed belt 60 acting preload forces of the spring elements 556 exceeding this limit is prevented.

[0057] When the preparation, the component feed belt 60 via the rear transmitter unit 54 to send, is thus completed and the operator is via the input unit 89 a setting command to the control unit 80 The output drives the control unit. 80 in response to this command, the rear engine 54A on, the rear sprocket 54C to rotate the leading end part of the component feed belt 60 to the front of the feed device 50 to send and the tip part with the teeth 52E of the front sprocket 52 to intervene (first transmission step), as in Fig. 9D shown.

[0058] Once the preparation, including the feeding of components, is completed in this way, the control unit takes over. 80 each part of the surface mounting machine 1 according to the aforementioned assembly program 83A , to the electronic components E1 from the feed devices 50 to supply and the electronic components E1 via the head unit 32 on the surface of the circuit board P1 to assemble. Although the above first transmission step and the assembly of components based on the assembly program 83A Since the methods can be implemented differently, it goes without saying that the first transmission step is part of the assembly program. 83A can be integrated.

[0059] As just described, in this embodiment the component feed belt 60 in the main body 51 the feed device 50using the tape adjustment unit 55 The component feed belt is adjusted. 60 simply into the main body 51 can be inserted without deforming. Furthermore, since the presetting process is performed using the MK marking, which is located on the band setting unit, 55 The component feed belt is intended to 60 be introduced in a stable manner.

[0060] While the electronic components E1 The feed unit sends the feed material. 50 the component feed belt 60 to the component feed position S1 , and the remains of the component feed belt 60 Meanwhile, the number decreases. Accordingly, the operator adjusts the quantity while the component feed belt is running. 60 continue at intervals from the component feed position S1 The next component feed belt is sent via the following manual operation. 60one, i.e. the following volume 60B until the components are fed in via the preceding conveyor belt 60A , which means that the above component feed belt 60 has ended.

[0061] In a state where the previous band 60A continue to the component feed position S1 When the tape setting unit is sent, it will be sent. 55 from the import region 53 pulled out, as if by a white arrow in Fig. 9E indicated, and from the main body 51 detached. Subsequently, a force is applied in one direction to engage the lever element. 553 from the band support element 552 to separate from the Y-axis directions, thereby separating the band support elements 551 , 552 to the "first non-support position" or the "second non-support position", as indicated by an arrow AR in Fig. 9E is specified. That is, the pair of band support elements. 551, 552 is simultaneously from the positions below the component feed belt 60 withdrawn to support the component feed belt 60 to solve. In this way, the preceding band moves. 60A due to its own weight in the insertion region 53 vertically downwards and is driven by the rear sprocket 54C separated, and the transmission path for the previous tape 60A is from the transmission path TP1 to the transmission path TP2 in the introduction region 53 switched (belt position switching step). At this time, the preceding component feed belt is 60A already engaged with the front gear ring 52C , which is why the previous volume 60A by rotating the front gear ring 52C continue to the component feed position S1 can be sent even if it is from the rear sprocket 54C is separated (second transmission step).

[0062] If a downward movement of the preceding band 60A in the introduction region 53 Once finished, the lever element 553 returned to an initial position, the pair of band support elements 551 , 552 The following band is coupled and integrated. 60B The same procedure will be used as in the setup phase of the previous band. 60A (a number of businesses located in Fig. 9A to Fig. 9C are shown) into the introduction region 53 introduced, the teeth 54D of the rear sprocket 54C are connected to the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 brought into action, and the lower surface of the component feed belt 60 is driven by the moving elements 555 elastically supported, which facilitates the adjustment of the subsequent band. 60B will be completed.

[0063] Then, when a belt sensor (not shown) detects the passage of a trailing end section of the preceding belt, the motor drives 60A through the conveyor belt 56 detected, the feed device control unit 59 , which received the detection signal, the rear engine 54A on, the rear sprocket 54C to rotate. In this way, a leading end section of the following volume is created. 60B to the front of the feed device 50 sent and with the front sprocket 52C intervention was initiated.

[0064] In this embodiment, if the preceding band is absent, the drive occurs. 60A in the conveyor belt 56 detected by a belt sensor, the feed device control unit. 59 the rear engine 54A at a higher speed than the front engine 52Arotating for a predetermined time. In this way, the following band 60B sent faster than the previous tape for the predetermined time. 60A , which makes the leading final part of the following volume 60B the trailing final section of the previous volume 60A approaches.

[0065] The aforementioned predetermined time is calculated and set in advance, as explained below. In this embodiment in particular, the front motor 52A rotated at a constant speed, and the control unit 80 can depend on the transmission speed of the component feed belt 60 from the front engine 52A and a distance between the belt sensor and the rear sprocket 54C calculate a time until the leading end section of the following volume 60B the trailing final section of the previous volume 60Areached, and set the calculated time to the predetermined time above.

[0066] As previously described, according to the first embodiment, the leading end part (supported part) of the component feed belt is 60 from the tape setting unit 55 supported, and the band adjustment unit 55 will be introduced to the region 53 of the main body 51 inserted, with one rear end (lever element side) of the supported part separated from the clamping plate 558 is stuck, as in Fig. 8B shown, where the component feed belt 60 into the introduction region 53 is introduced. Thus, the component feed belt 60 into the main body 51 used while constantly on the tape setting unit 55 is supported, which is why the component feed belt 60 simple and stable in the main body 51can be used without being deformed, regardless of the operator's working posture, the presence or absence of a blind spot, and similar factors.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the marking MK is on the band adjustment unit. 55 provided for, and a so-called presetting process of keeping the leading end position of the component feed belt constant. 60 and a band length in the insertion region 53 , when the component feed belt 60 into the main body 51 The insertion process is carried out using the MK marker. Thus, when the tape adjustment unit is inserted... 55 into the introduction region 53 The leading end part of the component feed belt is finished. 60 positioned in a position that was predetermined in relation to the rear sprocket 54C has been discontinued, and the component feed belt 60can be reliably detected from the transmission section 54 be sent by using the teeth 54D of the rear sprocket 54C stable in the access holes 62B of the component feed belt 60 Intervention takes place.

[0068] Furthermore, by performing the presetting process in this manner, the following functions and effects are achieved. If the presetting process is not performed, a sensor is required to detect the arrival of the leading end of the component feeder. 60 provided at a predetermined position, and the operator must control the component feed belt. 60 manually attached to the main body 51 send a signal while monitoring sensor detection. In contrast, according to this embodiment, mounting a sensor is unnecessary. Moreover, the band adjustment unit can 55 , after the above presetting process has been carried out, into the insertion region 53of the main body 51 in a room away from the main body 51 used, as in Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B shows why the machinability for the operator can be drastically improved. This is particularly evident in surface assembly machine 1, which features a multitude of feed devices. 50 adjacent in the feed assembly units 42 Once installed, the aforementioned functions and effects become noticeable.

[0069] Moreover, by holding the component feed belt 60 from the clamping plate 558 is resolved after the introduction operation of the component feed belt. 60 The component feed belt is finished. 60 of the moving elements 555 towards the rear sprocket 54C pressed, with a force corresponding to the preload forces of the spring elements 556 In this way, the component feed belt can 60be transmitted stably.

[0070] Moreover, the structure for inserting and removing the band adjustment unit 55 in and from the main body 51 the feed device 50 As previously described, the tape adjustment unit can be assumed to be 55 get lost when they are separated from the main body 51 is replaced when the tape setting unit 55 regardless of the main body 51 is. However, since the band support elements 551 , 552 by means of the adjustment movement mechanism 70 in this embodiment to the main body 51 When coupled, the aforementioned loss can be reliably prevented.

[0071] Fig. Figure 10 is a side view showing a component feeding device according to a second embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective partial view of the component feeding device, which is located in Fig. Figure 10 shows that this second embodiment differs significantly from the first embodiment in that it includes a tape adjustment unit. 55 is designed by means of band support elements 551 , 552 The band adjustment unit will be integrated. 55 independently into an introduction region 53 of a main body 51 is inserted and replaced by it without the set movement mechanism 70 to use, and a component feed belt 60 from a transmission path TP1 to a transmission path TP2 is moved by the band adjustment unit 55 from the main body 51The other design and operation are fundamentally similar to those of the first embodiment. Therefore, the following description focuses on differences, and the same components and operations are designated by the same or corresponding reference numerals and not described in detail.

[0072] In this second embodiment, the tape adjustment unit comprises 55 a basic element 554 , a movable element 555 , which is movable in a vertical direction Z above the base element 554 is attached, and a spring element 556 , that between the upper surface of the base element 554 and the lower surface of the moving element 555 is attached, and is separated and independently placed in the main body 51 inserted and detached from it. The movable element 555has a belt support surface that is wider than the width of the component feed belt 60 in a lateral direction Y. It should be noted that contact walls (not shown) are provided to be positioned at an interval slightly wider than the width of this band support surface, and one end surface position of each contact wall is on the side of a component feed position. S1 is provided as a marking MK as in the first embodiment. In addition, as in the first embodiment, a lever element is included. 553 and a clamping plate 558 on the tape setting unit 55 planned.

[0073] In this second embodiment, the component feed belt 60 by means of a manual operation similar to that of the first embodiment in an empty state in a feed device 50 discontinued, and a subsequent volume 60 is in the feed device50 as follows. In particular, the tape adjustment unit is set. 55 from the import region 53 pulled out, as if by a white arrow into Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 shown in a state in which a previous belt continues to feed to the component feed position S1 sent and independent of the main body 51 is separated. Although the component feed belt (preceding belt) 60 from below, from the band adjustment unit 55 is supported, which is in the introduction region 53 Before this extraction operation is used, this support is released from the extraction operation, and the component feed belt 60 Due to its own weight, it moves vertically downwards into the insertion region. 53 That means a transmission path for the previous band. 60 in the introduction region 53 is from the transmission path TP1 on the transmission path TP2 switched.

[0074] Furthermore, a pre-setting process for the following volume will be carried out. 60 for the band adjustment unit 55 executed, which in this way from the main body 51 is pulled out. That is, after a leading end part (supported part) of the following band has been pulled out. 60 on the upper surfaces of the moving elements 555 is placed to hold the band adjustment unit 55 to support from below, while the leading end of the following band 60 The lever element is aligned with the MK markings. 553 pushed downwards to form the leading end part of the following band 60 from the clamping plate 558 and the moving elements 555 to clamp. Then the tape adjustment unit 55 into the introduction region 53 of the main body 51 used, thereby the following band 60 will be completely discontinued.

[0075] As previously described, since the preset band adjustment unit 55 into the introduction region 53 of the main body 51 is used to control the component feed belt 60 in the second embodiment, the component feed belt 60 reliably from a transmission section 54 as in the first embodiment. Moreover, since the above presetting process is carried out in the second embodiment, the tape setting unit 55 from the main body 51 Once pulled out and completely separated from it, the above presetting process does not only take place at a position near the main body 51 not only can they be executed, but they can also be carried out at a position away from the main body. 51 , and the processability of the presetting process can be improved.

[0076] As previously described, in the above embodiments the electronic component corresponds E1 an example of a “component” of the invention, and the feed device 50 This corresponds to an example of a "component feeding device" of the invention. Furthermore, the band adjustment unit corresponds to 55 and the adjustment movement mechanism 70 Examples of a "band support" and a "movement device" of the invention are provided. The lever element 553 and the clamping plate 558 corresponding to examples of a "switching device" and a "clamping element" of the invention, and these function as a "clamping mechanism" of the invention. Moreover, the movable element corresponds to 555 an example of a “support element” of the invention. Moreover, the spring element corresponds to 556an example of a "preloading element" of the invention. Furthermore, the marking MK corresponds to an example of an "index part" of the invention. Moreover, the presetting process corresponds to an example of an "insertion step" of the invention.

[0077] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications to these embodiments can be made without departing from the main point of the invention. For example, although the pair of band support elements 551 , 552 both of the two shaft elements 72 , 73 and the coupler 78 be opened, as in Fig. 7C in the first embodiment shown above, the double opening structure is not limited to this, and a conventionally known double opening structure can be used. The shaft elements 72 , 73 These could be, for example, double pipes that are placed inside each other.

[0078] Moreover, in the above embodiments, when the manual operation of the lever element is used 553 is stopped, for example, when the operator uses the lever element 553 releases the lever element 553 returned to the initial position, and the return is made from the clamping state ( Fig. 8B) to the non-clamping state ( Fig. 8A) by means of the preload forces of the spring elements 556 Here, a locking mechanism can be converted into a rotary mechanism for the lever element. 553 be integrated, and returning it can depend on the clamping state ( Fig. 8B) to the non-clamping state ( Fig. 8A) via the locking mechanism.

[0079] Although the coupler 78 moreover, it is provided with a convex-concave structure, as in Fig. 7C shown to illustrate the band support elements 551 , 552 In the first embodiment, the band support elements can be moved simultaneously. 551 ,552 can be moved simultaneously by another structure. Furthermore, the belt support elements can 551 , 552 Both can be opened by removing the band support element. 552 to a slightly delayed timing of a movement of the band support element 551 is being moved.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the invention is applied to a so-called self-loading feed device for suppressing the interruption of the feeding of the components, by means of the following belt 60B is automatically sent to monitor the feeding of components via the preceding belt. 60B the leading final section of the following volume 60B to the trailing end section of the previous volume 60Ato bring. However, one application problem of the invention is not limited to this, and the invention can be applied to component feeding techniques in general to improve the component feeding belt. 60 longitudinally for feeding electronic components E1 to send.

[0081] As the specific embodiments have been shown and described above, the invention can, for example, be configured such that a belt support comprises a support element configured to support a main surface of a component feed belt, and a clamping mechanism comprises a clamping element capable of pressing the component feed belt against the support element, and a switching device configured to keep the component feed belt switchable and to release the holding of the component feed belt by moving the clamping element between a clamping position in which the clamping element presses and holds the component feed belt against the spring element and a non-clamping position in which the clamping element is separated from the support element in order to release the holding of the component feed belt.In this way it is possible to reliably hold the component feed belt and to release the holding of the component feed belt from the clamping mechanism at proper timing.

[0082] Furthermore, the belt support can include a prestressing element designed to prestress the support element in a direction normal to the other main surface of the component feed belt. In this way, a force applied from below by the belt support to support the component feed belt corresponds to a prestressing force, and the component feed belt can be stably supported.

[0083] Furthermore, the belt support can include an index section configured to indicate a leading end position in a longitudinal direction of a supported part, which is supported by the belt support, and is capable of maintaining the position of the component feed belt relative to the belt support constant. In this way, the leading end position of the component feed belt can be stabilized at the time it is inserted into a main body, and the component feed belt can subsequently be reliably routed within the main body.

[0084] The coupling relationship between the belt support and the main body is arbitrary, but, for example, a motion device can be provided that is designed to insert and detach the belt support from an insertion region while coupling the belt support to the main body. In this case, loss of the belt support can be prevented when the belt support is detached from the main body. Conversely, the belt support can be designed to be inserted into and detached from the insertion region independently of the main body. In this case, support operation of the component feed belt by the belt support and clamping operation of the component feed belt by the clamping mechanism can be performed not only at a position near the main body but also at a position further away from the main body, and their operational capability can be improved.

[0085] Although the invention has been described above using the specific embodiments, this description should not be interpreted as limiting. With reference to the description of the invention, various modifications of the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, which are similar to other embodiments of the invention. The pending claims are therefore intended to encompass these modifications and embodiments without deviating from the true scope of protection of the invention. [INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY]

[0086] This invention can be applied to component feeding techniques in general for feeding components by sending a component feeding belt in a longitudinal direction of the component feeding belt, and to a surface mounting machine for mounting the components which are fed onto a plate by means of the above techniques. Reference symbol list 1... Surface Mounting Machine 30... Component assembly equipment 32... Head unit 50... Feed device (component feeding device) 51... Main body 53... Introduction region 55... Band adjustment unit 60, 60A, 60B... Component feed belt 551... (first) band support element 552... (second) band support element 553... Lever element 555... moving element 556... Spring element E1... electronic component P1... Circuit board X... Longitudinal direction Y... latitude QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2016090289

[0002] JP 2011211169 A

[0004]

Claims

[1] Component feeding device comprising a main body having an insertion region into which a component feeding belt holding components is inserted and which is configured to feed the components by sending the component feeding belt, which is inserted into the main body via the insertion region, in a longitudinal direction of the component feeding belt, the device comprising: a belt support that can be inserted into the insertion region while supporting the component feed belt; and a clamping mechanism designed to layer and hold at least a part of a supported portion of the component feed belt, which is supported by the belt support, in relation to the belt support, wherein the component feed belt is inserted into the main body by inserting the belt support into the insertion region, the component feed belt being held by the clamping mechanism. [2] Component feeding device according to claim 1, wherein: the belt support comprises a support element designed to support a main surface of the component feed belt; and The clamping mechanism includes: a clamping element capable of pressing the component feed belt against the support element; and a switching device designed to keep the component feeder belt switchable and to release the holding of the component feeder belt by moving the clamping element between a clamping position in which the clamping element presses and holds the component feeder belt against the spring element and a non-clamping position in which the clamping element is separated from the support element in order to release the holding of the component feeder belt. [3] Component feeding device according to claim 2, wherein: The belt support includes a prestressing element designed to prestress the support element in a normal direction to the other main surface of the component feed belt. [4] Component feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The band support includes an index part designed to indicate a leading end position in a longitudinal direction of the supported part that is supported by the band support. [5] Component feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: a movement device designed to insert and detach the band support into the insertion region while coupling the band support to the main body. [6] Component feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The band support can be inserted into the insertion region separately from the main body and can be detached from it. [7] Component feeding methods, including: an insertion step of inserting a component feed belt, which holds components, into a main body via an insertion region of the main body; and a feeding step of the feeding of the components, in which the component feeding belt, which is inserted into the main body, is sent in a longitudinal direction of the component feeding belt, the introduction step includes: a step of supporting the component feed belt by a belt support that can be inserted into the insertion region and of layering and holding at least a part of a supported part of the component feed belt, which is supported by the belt support, by the belt support and a clamping mechanism; and a step of introducing the component feed belt into the main body by inserting the belt support into the insertion region, with the component feed belt being held by the clamping mechanism. [8] Component feeding method according to claim 7, wherein: The insertion step includes a step of releasing the holding of the component feed belt from the clamping mechanism after the belt support has been inserted into the insertion region. [9] Surface mounting machine, comprising: the component feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 6; and a head unit designed to assemble the components that are fed onto a plate by the component feeder.