feeder storage system

Abstract

A feeder storage system comprises: a storage area in which several component feeders, interchangeably mounted on a component assembler, are stored, the multiple component feeders being configured to feed components; a delivery area arranged adjacent to the storage area in which the component feeder is delivered to and from a conveying device configured to perform transport to the component assembler; a work area arranged on a side of the storage area opposite the delivery area in which a worker performs predetermined work relating to the component feeder; and a transfer device configured to transfer the component feeder between the storage area, the delivery area, and the work area.

Description

Technical field The present description concerns a feeder storage system for storing component feeders that are interchangeably attached to a component assembler. State of the art A technique for the mass production of sheet products by performing sheet processing operations on a sheet bearing a circuit pattern has become widespread. A representative example of a sheet processing machine is a component assembler, which mounts a component onto a sheet. Many component assemblers use a belt feeder that feeds a component using a carrier belt. These belt feeders are stored in an equipment warehouse in quantities greater than the number installed in the component assembler, and transport, setup, and exchange operations have traditionally been performed by a single worker. In recent years, to meet the need for labor savings, a system has been developed in which at least some of the above-described tasks are automated.The component feeder, which feeds a component, comprises a belt feeder, a compartment feeder, and a stack feeder. Patent literature 1 discloses a technical example for the automation and labor savings in the storage and similar aspects of the component feeder. In a storage system disclosed in patent literature 1, a transport robot moves between a component container storage, a component feeder storage, and a component container loader to transport a component container (for example, a spool around which a carrier belt is wound) and a component feeder (for example, a belt feeder) to the component container loader, and the component container loader loads the component container into the component feeder. It is stated that the setup for the component feeder to be used in a component assembler is carried out automatically, resulting in greater labor savings compared to a conventional method. Bibliography Patent literature Patent literature 1: WO 2021 / 106025 Summary of the invention Technical problem In fact, without being limited to the technical example in patent literature 1, complete automation of the component feeder's storage is technically difficult, and currently various storage-related tasks are divided between a device (such as a transport robot) and a worker. If the tasks of the device and the worker overlap, downtime occurs on one side, leading to a reduction in work efficiency. Therefore, one objective of the present description is to provide a feeder storage system capable of suppressing a reduction in work efficiency by reducing the opportunities for work overlap between a device and a worker at a component feeder. Solution to the problem The present description relates to a feeder storage system comprising: a storage area in which several component feeders, which are interchangeably attached to a component assembler, are stored, the several component feeders being configured to feed components; a delivery area arranged adjacent to the storage area in which the component feeder is transferred to and from a conveying device configured to perform transport to the component assembler; a work area arranged on a side of the storage area opposite the delivery area in which a worker performs predetermined tasks related to the component feeder; and a transfer device configured to transfer the component feeder between the storage area, the transfer area, and the work area. Furthermore, the present description relates to a feeder storage system comprising: one or more storage areas, each having multiple storage positions in which multiple component feeders can be stored, which are interchangeably attached to a component assembler, the multiple component feeders being configured to feed components; a delivery area arranged adjacent to the storage areas, in which the component feeder is delivered to and from a conveying device configured to carry out the transport to the component assembler;a setup section configured to designate a portion of the storage area or storage positions near the delivery area as the storage area where the multiple component feeders are stored, and a remaining portion of the storage area or storage positions far from the delivery area as the work area where predetermined tasks relating to the component feeder are performed by a worker; and a transfer device configured to transfer the component feeder between the storage area, the feed area, and the work area. The present description discloses a technical idea in which "the feeder storage system according to claim 4" is amended in claim 7 of the original version to "the feeder storage system according to any one of claims 4 to 6", a technical idea in which "the feeder storage system according to claim 4" is amended in claim 8 of the original version to "the feeder storage system according to any one of claims 4 to 7", a technical idea in which "the feeder storage system according to claim 8" is amended in claim 10 of the original version to "the feeder storage system according to claim 8 or 9", a technical idea in which "the feeder storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3" is amended in claim 11 of the originally filed version to "the feeder storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 10", a technical idea,a technical idea in which “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3” in claim 13 as originally filed is amended to “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 12”, a technical idea in which “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3” in claim 15 of the original version is amended to “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 14”, a technical idea in which “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3” in claim 17 of the originally filed version is amended to “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 16”, and a technical idea in which “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3” in claim 18 of the original version is amended to “the feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 17”. Advantageous effects of the invention In the disclosed feeder storage system, the delivery area, where the component feeder delivers to and from the conveyor, and the work area, where the predetermined work is performed by the worker, are arranged separately across the storage area. This separates the movement paths of the conveyor and the worker, preventing their tasks from overlapping and reducing the potential for work overlap between the conveyor and the worker, thereby preventing a decrease in work efficiency. Brief description of the characters Fig. 1 is a top view showing a configuration example of a component assembler to which a belt feeder is detachably attached. Fig. 2 is a side view of the belt feeder. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a feeder storage system of one embodiment. Fig. 4 is a front view of a storage area. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a conveying device. Fig. 6 is a front view showing a storage area, a delivery area, and a working area set up in the feeder storage system. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a workflow of a gathering operation performed by the feeder storage system. Fig. 8 is a front view schematically illustrating the movement of the belt feeder and the like during the gathering operation. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a step of a setup operation performed by the feeder storage system.Figure 10 is a front view that schematically illustrates the movement of the belt feeder and the like during the setup process. Description of embodiments 1. Configuration example for a component assembler 9 The feeder storage system 1 of one embodiment serves to store belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are detachably attached to the component assembler 9. First, the configurations of the component assembler 9 and the belt feeder 8A are described. The component assembler 9, shown in Fig. 1, performs assembly operations to attach a component to the plate K. A horizontal direction from left to right on the drawing surface in Fig. 1 is the X-axis direction in which the plate K is transported; a horizontal direction from the bottom (front) to the top (back) on the drawing surface is the Y-axis direction; and a vertical direction is the Z-axis direction. The component assembler 9 is constructed on a base 91 by assembling a plate conveyor 92, a component feeder 93, a component transfer device 94, a control device (not shown), and the like. The plate conveyor 92 comprises a pair of guide rails 921, a pair of conveyor belts (not shown), a clamping mechanism 922, and the like. The pair of guide rails 921 extends transversely in the X-axis direction across the center of a top surface of the base 91 and is mounted parallel to each other on the base 91. The pair of conveyor belts rotates along the guide rails 921 in a state where two parallel sides of the plate K are placed on them and conveys the plate K to a stop position near the center of the base 91. The clamping mechanism 922 is located below the stop position and pushes the plate K upward to clamp and position it between the guide rails 921 and the clamping mechanism 922. After the component transfer device 94 has completed component assembly, the clamping mechanism 922 releases the plate K, and the conveyor belts transport the plate K out of the component assembler. The component feeding device 93 is arranged on a front section of the top of the base 91 in the Y-axis direction. The component feeding device 93 comprises a pallet table 931 and several belt feeders (8A, 8B). In plan view, the pallet table 931 has a substantially rectangular shape and includes several slots 932 that extend parallel to each other in the Y-axis direction and are separated from one another. Each of the multiple belt feeders (8A, 8B) is detachably mounted by insertion into a slot 932. The pallet table 931 can be detached from the base 91. There are several models of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) (see Fig. 6). In the present embodiment, it is assumed that four of the models described below are used. The belt feeder 8A of a first model is thin and has a small width in the X-axis direction; it is mounted on one slot 932. The belt feeder 8B of a second model has a width in the X-axis direction that is approximately twice that of the belt feeder 8A of the first model and is mounted over two slots 932. The belt feeder 8C of a third model has a width in the X-axis direction that is approximately three times that of the belt feeder 8A of the first model and is mounted over three slots 932.The belt feeder 8D of a fourth model has the same width in the X-axis direction as the belt feeder 8A of the first model, but has an internal structure that differs slightly from that of the belt feeder 8A of the first model, and is attached to a slot 932. The component transfer device 94 comprises a Y-axis motion body 941, an X-axis motion body 942, an assembly head 943, a nozzle tool 944, several suction nozzles 95 (component assembly tools), a plate camera 946, a component camera 947, and the like. The Y-axis motion body 941 and the X-axis motion body 942 form an XY drive mechanism that moves the assembly head 943 in two horizontal directions. The nozzle tool 944, as a rotationally symmetric body, is arranged below the assembly head 943. The nozzle tool 944 is provided with several suction nozzles 95 (in the example of Fig. 1: 20), which are automatically interchangeable. The suction nozzle 95 performs the assembly work, in which the components fed by belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are picked up and mounted at the stop position on the plate K. The assembly head 943 can be equipped with several suction nozzles 95, arranged in a line or in a grid pattern.In addition, a component assembly tool other than the suction nozzles 95, for example a collet assembly tool for gripping the component, can be arranged in the assembly head 943 in an automatically interchangeable manner. A plate camera 946 is arranged downwards on the X-axis motion body 942, together with the assembly head 943. The plate camera 946 captures an image from above of a position marker attached to the plate K in order to precisely determine the stop position of the plate K. A component camera 947 is arranged upwards between the plate conveyor 92 and the component feeder 93. The component camera 947 captures an image from below of the component held by the suction nozzle 95 and detects the component as the assembly head 943 moves from the component feeder 93 to the plate K. This determines whether the component type is correct or incorrect, and the position and orientation of the component relative to the suction nozzle 95 are detected and taken into account during assembly.Examples of the plate camera 946 and the component camera 947 include a digital image acquisition device with an image acquisition element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The control device (not shown) is mounted on the base 91, and its position is not particularly restricted. The control device is designed as a computer device. The control device can be configured such that multiple CPUs are distributed and arranged within the device and are interconnected. The control device controls the plate conveyor 92, the component feeder 93, and the component transfer device 94 based on assembly work data created for each type of plate product (plate K), and drives the assembly work for the component. The assembly work data includes element information relating to the plate K and the type and shape of the component, as well as mapping information in which the component type is assigned to the model of the belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be used. 2. Configuration example for the belt feeder 8A The tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) is a type of component feeder that is detachably equipped with a spool RL (component holder) which holds several components. Since the configurations of the four tape feeder models (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are similar, the first model, tape feeder 8A, is described as an example. The tape feeder 8A, shown in Fig. 2, pulls the carrier tape CT, which holds several components, from the spool RL, feeds the carrier tape CT in a predetermined feed direction, and delivers the components to a predetermined feed position 816. The direction from left to right in Fig. 1 is the feed direction of the carrier tape CT, with the left side being the upstream side and the right side the downstream side. The belt feeder 8A is designed to be thin in the width direction by mounting various components, including a side plate, on the feeder main body 81.The belt feeder 8A comprises, in addition to the feeder main body 81, a feeder mechanism 83, a belt pull-off mechanism 84, a belt guide 85, a feeder control section 86, an indicator lamp 87 and the like. The feeder main body 81 comprises a mounting / releasing rail 811, a spool holding section 812, an opening / closing plate 813, a belt conveyor path 815, and a locking mechanism 818. The mounting / releasing rail 811 is located on a bottom surface of the feeder main body 81 and is inserted into the slot 932 when attached to the component assembler 9. An upper positioning pin 821, a connector 822, and a lower positioning pin 823 are arranged in sequence from the top to the bottom surface of a downstream end face of the feeder main body 81. The upper positioning pin 821 and the lower positioning pin 823 are inserted into and engaged with positioning holes in the pallet table 931 to position the belt feeder 8A.When the belt feeder 8A is positioned, the connector 822 is automatically inserted into a receiving socket located on the pallet table 931. This supplies power to the belt feeder 8A, and the feeder control section 86 is communicatively connected to the control device of the component assembler 9. The coil holding section 812 is formed with several frame elements that essentially create a large circular interior space in the center of the feeder main body 81. The coil holding section 812 rotatably holds the coil RL within this interior space. The opening / closing plate 813, which covers more than half of the underside of the interior space, is pivotally mounted on a support section 914 located near the mounting / removal rail 811. The opening / closing plate 813 swings downward and opens around the support section 914, thus allowing the coil RL to be inserted and removed. The conveyor belt path 815 corresponds to a passage for feeding the carrier belt CT in a predetermined feeding direction. The conveyor belt path 815 can, for example, be configured in a rectangular tube shape using a base plate, two side plates, and a top plate, with a portion of the tube shape being optional. The conveyor belt path 815 extends obliquely upwards in a downstream direction, with a position near the coil RL serving as the starting point, extending substantially horizontally from the center in a downstream direction, and has an upper section of the feeder main body 81 at a downstream end as its endpoint. A predetermined feed position 816, opening upwards, is located near the endpoint of the conveyor belt path 815. The belt pull-off mechanism 84 is arranged upstream of the feed position 816 of the belt conveyor 815. The belt guide 85 is arranged above the belt pull-off mechanism 84. The belt guide 85 forms part of the belt conveyor 815 and is provided with the feed position 816. The belt guide 85 is pre-tensioned downwards by a pre-tensioning element (not shown) and presses the carrier belt CT against the base plate of the belt conveyor 815. This reliably inserts and engages the teeth of the sprocket 831, described below, in the feed holes of the carrier belt CT, and stabilizes the relative height of the carrier belt CT with respect to the belt pull-off mechanism 84. The conveyor belt 815 guides the carrier belt CT, which has been pulled from the spool RL, to the belt unwinding mechanism 84. The conveyor belt 815 also guides the carrier belt CT, which has been partially unwinded from the belt unwinding mechanism 84, to the feed position 816. The carrier belt CT, from which the component is taken at the feed position 816, is bent downwards in the feed direction and discharged downwards. The locking mechanism 818 is arranged on an upper section of the feeder main body 81 on the upstream side. The locking mechanism 818 comprises a locking pin 81A, a locking actuator 81B, a locking sensor 81C, and the like. The locking pin 81A is a cylindrical element and is held by the feeder main body 81 so that it can move up and down. The locking pin 81A is normally pushed upward by a preload spring (reference numeral omitted) to enter a locked position, thereby restricting a removal operation of the belt feeder 8A. The locking actuator 81B is a Y-shaped element with a pivot point in the center.When the locking actuator 81B is set into motion automatically or manually, it pushes the locking pin 81A downwards to release the locking state, thus allowing the belt feeder 8A to be removed. The locking sensor 81C detects the position of the locking pin 81A, i.e., whether the locking pin 81A is in the locked state, and outputs the result to the feeder control section 86. The feeding mechanism 83 feeds the carrier belt CT at a constant pitch and delivers the components sequentially to the feeding position 816. The feeding mechanism 83 comprises a sprocket 831, a servo motor, and a gear mechanism (not shown), among other components. The sprocket 831 is located below the belt conveyor 815 and essentially directly below the belt guide 85 and is rotatably mounted on the feeder main body 81. The teeth of the sprocket 831 protrude from a groove formed in the base plate of the belt conveyor 815 and are inserted into and engage with the feed holes of the carrier belt CT. The sprocket 831 is rotated by the servo motor via the gear mechanism to transport the carrier belt CT in the feeding direction. Furthermore, the sprocket 831 is rotated in the opposite direction when the servo motor rotates backward, thus transporting the carrier belt CT back in the reverse direction. The feeder control section 86 is arranged on a lower section of the feeder main body 81 on the upstream side, and its position is not restricted. The feeder control section 86 is connected to the control device of the component assembler 9 via the connector 822. The feeder control section 86 causes the component feeding process to continue by driving the feeding mechanism 83 in accordance with a command from the control device. In addition, the feeder control section 86 monitors the state of the locking mechanism 818. The feeder control section 86 stores identification information for identifying individual belt feeders 8A and transmits the identification information in response to a request from other control sections. An indicator lamp 87 is arranged near a lower section of an upstream end face of the feeder main body 81. The indicator lamp 87 can display three or more status indicators by a combination of illumination, flashing, and extinguishing. Furthermore, the indicator lamp 87 can display four or more status indicators by variably switching the flashing interval or changing the light color. Additionally, several indicator lamps 87 can be arranged. The feeder control section 86 controls the illumination of the indicator lamp 87 to indicate various states, such as an operating state, a setting state, and a fault state. 3. Structure of the feeder storage system 1 of the embodiment Next, the configuration of the feeder storage system 1 of the embodiment is described with reference to Figures 3, 4 to 5. The feeder storage system 1 not only stores belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), but also automates the transfer within the system, the transport to and from the system, and the loading and unloading of the reel RL, thereby saving labor. As shown in Figure 3, the feeder storage system 1 comprises six storage units (21 to 26), a departure / arrival station 3, a reel mounting / unloading device 4, a transfer device 5, a control device 6, and the like. In the configuration example shown in Figure 3, the departure / arrival station 3, the six storage units (21 to 26), and the reel mounting / unloading device 4 are arranged from left to right.Although the arrangement of the feeder storage system 1 can be reversed in the left-right direction, a change in the order of the arrangement is not permitted. That is, a configuration in which the departure / arrival station 3 and the coil mounting / removal device 4 are arranged in the middle in the left-right direction is not permitted. The leftmost of the six bearings (21 to 26) is designated as the first bearing 21, and the subsequent bearings to the right are designated successively as the second bearing 22 to the fifth bearing 25, with the rightmost bearing being designated as the sixth bearing 26. As shown in Fig. 4, each of the six bearings (21 to 26) is designed in the form of a box open at the front and has an upper storage compartment 27 and a lower storage compartment 28. Each of the storage compartments (27, 28) has several (in the example of Fig. 4, 14) storage positions 29, which are arranged in the left-right direction. In practice, the number of storage positions 29 is even greater. Each of the multiple storage positions 29 has a slot into which the mounting / releasing rail 811 is inserted and can accommodate a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Each of the four belt feeder models (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) is stored occupying a number of storage positions 29 corresponding to its width. Each storage position 29 has positioning holes into which the upper positioning pin 821 and the lower positioning pin 823 are inserted and snapped into place, as well as a receiving plug into which the connector 822 is automatically inserted. Therefore, the belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) stored in the storage position 29 is powered, and the feeder control section 86 is communicatively connected to the control device 6. Each of the storage units (21 to 26) has a shelf indicator lamp 2A positioned above each of the storage compartments (27, 28). The shelf indicator lamp 2A distinguishably indicates a defined area and model-specific storage section for each storage compartment (27, 28) by using an illuminated state with a changed indicator color and an off state. In addition, each of the storage units (21 to 26) has a position indicator lamp 2B positioned above each of the storage positions 29. If an area or model-specific storage section is defined for each storage position 29, the position indicator lamp 2B distinguishably indicates the area or model-specific storage section by using an illuminated state and an off state.It should be noted that the indicator lamp 87 of the belt feeder (8A, 8B) stored in storage position 29 can be used for indication instead of the position indicator lamp 2B. The storage capacity (21 to 26) is not limited to the description above. That is, a single large storage unit with multiple storage racks in both vertical and horizontal directions can also be used. Conversely, a large number of small storage compartments, each with one storage compartment, can be used. Furthermore, each of the storage units (21 to 26) facilitates the insertion / removal of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) by eliminating the need for the locking and unlocking operation via the locking mechanism 818; however, it can also be configured so that the locking and unlocking operation is required. As shown in Fig. 3, the departure / arrival station 3 is located on the left side of the first storage unit 21. One front face of the departure / arrival station 3 is aligned with the front faces of the storage units (21 to 26). The departure / arrival station 3 is a station where the automated guided vehicle 7 departs and arrives. As shown in Fig. 5, the automated guided vehicle 7 loads and transports a feeder magazine 71. The feeder magazine 71 serves to improve the efficiency of the transport process of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) between the departure / arrival station 3 and the component assembler 9. The feeder magazine 71 is designed in a box shape, with at least one of the front and back sides omitted. The feeder magazine 71 has several receiving positions arranged in the width direction inside and accommodates several belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). The feeder magazine 71 is preferably designed such that its width in the X-axis direction is essentially half the width of the pallet table 931. Accordingly, by using two feeder magazines 71, all belt feeders (8A, 8B) mounted on the pallet table 931 can be completely replaced. To make the complete replacement more efficient, the departure / arrival station 3 has two departure / arrival positions, where the automated guided vehicle 7 departs and arrives, and two setup positions, where the feeder magazine 71 is set up, arranged side by side in the left-right direction. It should be noted that the feeder magazine 71 can be designed in a size that is essentially the same as the width of the pallet table 931, thus enabling complete replacement using a single magazine. The operation of inserting belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) into the feeder magazine 71 located at the departure / arrival station 3 and the operation of withdrawing the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) in the reverse direction are performed by the transmission device 5. The feeder magazine 71 is automatically transported between the departure / arrival station 3 and the automated guided vehicle 7. A coil conveyor 73 is arranged on the side of the automated guided vehicle 7 as the loading and unloading device that performs the transport. The configuration is not limited to this, and the loading and unloading device can also be arranged on the side of the departure / arrival station 3. For example, the automated guided vehicle 7 travels along a route indicated by a route indicator 75 and transports the feeder magazine 71 to three component assemblers 9, which form the panel processing line 9A. The automated guided vehicle 7 can use a different driving procedure, for example, a procedure in which the environmental situation, a predetermined sign, or the like is detected, the current position is determined, and a driving route is determined. In addition, the automated guided vehicle 7 can load several individual belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) without using the feeder magazine 71. The automated guided vehicle 7 is a type of transport device that conveys belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to the component assembler 9. One area in which the departure / arrival station 3 is located is the delivery area A2 (see Fig. 6), in which belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are delivered to and from the conveyor device that transports the components to the component assembler 9. As another embodiment of the conveyor device, a belt conveyor can be used if the component assembler 9 is located far from the delivery area A2, and an arm-type robot can be used if the component assembler 9 is located close to the delivery area A2. As shown in Fig. 3, the spool securing / removal device 4 is located on the right side of the sixth bearing 26. In other words, the spool securing / removal device 4 is located on the side of the bearings (21 to 26) opposite the outgoing / arriving station 3. The spool securing / removal device 4 automatically secures the spool RL to and removes it from the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) (loading and unloading operations). The spool securing / removal device 4 has a box-shaped housing 41 that is larger than the bearings (21 to 26). The right front face 411 on the front of the housing 41 projects further forward than the left front face 412. The coil mounting / removal device 4 is arranged such that the left front face 412 of the housing 41 is aligned with the front faces of the bearings (21 to 26). A coil inlet 413 is located on the right front side 411 of the housing 41, and a feeder inlet 414 is located on the left front side 412. A coil outlet (not shown) is located on one rear side of the housing 41. The operator inserts the coil RL, which is to be placed in the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), into the coil securing / removal device 4 via the coil inlet 413. The operator also removes the coil RL from the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) via the coil outlet. The transfer device 5 guides the tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be subjected to the loading and unloading process from the feeder inlet 414 into the coil securing / removal device 4. In addition, the transmission device 5 removes the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that have been subjected to the loading or unloading process from the feeder insertion opening 414 to the outside. The coil fastening / removal device 4 is a type of holder fastening / removal device that fastens the component holder to or removes it from the component feeder and enables the operator to perform the insertion or removal of the component holder. Furthermore, the area in which the coil fastening / removal device 4 is arranged is the holder fastening / removal area A32 (see Fig. 6) and represents the working area A3 (see Fig. 6) in which the operator performs predetermined tasks with respect to the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). For information: The applicant of the present application discloses a detailed example of the internal structure of the coil fastening / removal device 4 in WO 2023 / 286209. As indicated by arrow T1 in Fig. 3, the transfer device 5 moves in a left-right direction across the front of the outgoing / arriving station 3, the bearings (21 to 26), and the front of the left front 412 of the reel mounting / removal device 4 to transfer tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). The transfer device 5 comprises a device main body 51, a pair of left and right infeed monitoring sensors 52, a control section 53, and the like. The device main body 51 includes a motion mechanism, a lifting and lowering section, a feeder operating section, and the like (not shown). The motion mechanism includes, for example, wheels and a drive source. The wheels move along guide rails (not shown) or on a floor surface. A servo motor or a pulse motor with good controllability is used, for example, as the drive source for the rotary drive of the wheels. The lifting and lowering section is arranged within the main body of the device 51 so that it can be raised and lowered. A ball screw feed mechanism or a linear motor mechanism is used as the lifting and lowering drive mechanism that drives the lifting and lowering section. The feeder operating section is arranged within the lifting and lowering section. The feeder operating section houses belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) and actuates the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) in a front-to-back direction.A battery or a contactless power supply mechanism is used to power the electrical component in the main body of the device 51. When the lifting and lowering section is in a raised position, the feeder operating section is located at the level of the upper storage compartment 27 of the bearings (21 to 26) and actuates the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to insert them into and remove them from the storage compartment 27. Furthermore, the feeder operating section is located at the level of the feeder magazine 71, which is arranged on the discharge / arrival station 3 and the feeder insertion opening 414 of the reel securing / removal device 4, and actuates the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to insert them into and remove them from the feeder magazine 71 and the reel securing / removal device 4. When the lifting and lowering section is in a lowered position, the feeder operating section is at the level of the lower storage compartment 28 of the bearings (21 to 26) and actuates belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to insert them into and remove them from the storage compartment 28. A pair of left and right intrusion detection sensors 52 are arranged on the left and right sides of a front lower section of the device main body 51. The intrusion detection sensor 52 detects an intruding object that has entered the movement range of the transmission device 5 and outputs a detection signal to the control section 53. The intruding object corresponds specifically to a worker and equipment, such as a cart brought by the worker. For example, a non-contact sensor using infrared radiation or ultrasonic waves is used as the intrusion detection sensor 52. The intrusion detection sensor 52 can be arranged outside the transmission device 5, for example, at the front of the bearing (21 to 26). The control section 53 is designed as a computer device, and its arrangement is not particularly restricted. The control section 53 has three functional sections, primarily designed by software: the motion control section 54, the operating control section 55, and the motion restriction section 56. The motion control section 54 causes the feeder operating section to move to a specific operating position by driving the motion mechanism and the lifting and lowering section according to a command from the control device 6. The operating control section 55 causes the feeder operating section, which has moved into the operating position, to perform the insertion / removal operation of the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). The motion limiting section 56 uses the detection signal from the intrusion monitoring sensor 52 to determine whether an intruding object has been detected. If an intruding object is detected, the motion limiting section 56 stops the control by the motion control section 54, thereby limiting the movement of the transmission device 5. This prevents the transmission device 5 from colliding with the intruding object. If the intruding object is a worker, the worker's safety is also ensured. For information: The applicant of the present application discloses a detailed embodiment of the transmission device 5 in WO 2022 / 118380. The control device 6 shown in Fig. 3 is designed as a computer device, and its arrangement is not particularly restricted. The control device 6 is communicatively connected to the line management device 9B, which manages the board processing line 9A. The board processing line 9A is formed by an arrangement of three component assemblers 9 together with a solder paste printing machine, a print inspection machine, a visual board inspection machine, and a reflow soldering machine (reference numerals omitted). The line management device 9B manages the operating states of these seven board processing machines based on a production plan 9C stored in a memory. The board processing line 9A can be modified in its line configuration and can comprise multiple lines. Production plan 9C stores information such as production quantity, production order, and production end date for several types of sheet products. Furthermore, production plan 9C assigns the assembly data of each of the three component assemblers 9 to the individual types of sheet products. Therefore, it can be assumed that mapping information, in which the component type and the model of the belt feeder to be used (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are linked, is contained in production plan 9C. Control device 6 can retrieve production plan 9C and the mapping information contained within it from line management device 9B, or exchange production plan 9C and the mapping information with line management device 9B. The control device 6 controls each element of the feeder storage system 1. In particular, the control device 6 communicates with the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) stored in the storage units (21 to 26) to acquire identification information. Accordingly, the control device 6 manages the identification information of the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) and the storage positions 29 in relation to each other. In addition, the control device 6 controls the lighting of the shelf indicator lamp 2A and the position indicator lamp 2B of the storage units (21 to 26). Furthermore, the control device 6 controls the attachment / removal process of the coil attachment / removal device 4 by means of wired communication and the transmission process of the transmission device 5 by means of wireless communication.In addition, the control device 6 manages the conveying process, the loading and unloading process and the like of the automated guided vehicle 7 in cooperation with a transport control section (not shown) that controls the automated guided vehicle 7. The control device 6 comprises three functional sections configured primarily by software: the setting section 61, the collection command section 62, and the setup command section 63. The setting section 61 performs the setting and modification of a range as well as the setting and modification of a model-specific bearing section for six bearings (21 to 26). The collection command section 62 performs the control associated with a collection operation of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that have been used in the component assembler 9. The setup command section 63 performs the control associated with a setup operation of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are to be used next in the component assembler 9. The detailed functions of the three functional sections are described below. 4. Adjustment of the area and the model-specific bearing section by means of adjustment section 61 The detailed functions of the setting section 61 are described below with reference to Fig. 6. The transfer device 5 is not shown in Fig. 6. As described above, the area where the departure / arrival station 3 is located is the delivery area A2, and the area where the spool mounting / removal device 4 is located is the holder mounting / removal area A32 and the working area A3. The setting section 61 designates a portion of six bearings (21 to 26) near the delivery area A2 as bearing area A1 and designates a remaining portion, located away from the delivery area A2, as working area A3 and an input / output area A31. Storage area A1 is an area where ready-to-use belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), arranged for use in production plan 9C and loaded with RL reels, are stored. Work area A3 is an area where the operator performs predetermined tasks related to the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Work area A3 is located on the side of storage area A1 opposite delivery area A2. Input / output area A31 is a section of work area A3 that is distinct from holder attachment / removal area A32. In input / output area A31, the operator inserts belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are arranged for use but have not yet been loaded with RL reels. In addition, in the storage and retrieval area A31, the removal of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are not ordered for use is carried out by the worker. In the configuration example shown in Fig. 6, the first storage area 21, the second storage area 22, the third storage area 23, and the fourth storage area 24, which are located near the delivery area A2, are set up in storage area A1. The fifth storage area 25 and the sixth storage area 26, which are far from the delivery area A2, are set up in the work area A3 and the input / output area A31, respectively. That is, the configuration section 61 distributes and assigns six storage areas (21 to 26) to storage area A1 and input / output area A31. According to the above configuration, the transfer device 5 transports belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) between storage area A1, delivery area A2, and work area A3. The setting section 61 further assigns the fifth storage unit 25 and the sixth storage unit 26, which are located in the input / output area A31, to several model-specific storage sections, which are subdivided according to the model of the belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). In the setting example shown in Fig. 6, the upper storage compartment 27 of the sixth storage unit 26 is assigned to a model-specific storage section for the belt feeder 8A of the first model, and the lower storage compartment 28 is assigned to a model-specific storage section for the belt feeder 8B of the second model. Furthermore, the upper storage compartment 27 of the fifth storage unit 25 is assigned to a model-specific storage area for the belt feeder 8D of the fourth model, and the lower storage compartment 28 is assigned to a model-specific storage area for the belt feeder 8C of the third model. In this allocation, it is advantageous for improving transmission efficiency to assign the first and fourth models, which are available in relatively large quantities, to the upper storage compartment 27, and the second and third models, which are available in relatively small quantities, to the lower storage compartment 28. This is because, when transferring belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) between the upper storage compartment 27 and the departure / arrival station 3, as well as between the upper storage compartment 27 and the reel mounting / removal device 4, the lifting operation of the lifting section of the transmission device 5 is not required, whereas the lower storage compartment 28 does require the lifting operation of the lifting section. Furthermore, the adjustment section 61 causes the shelf indicator lamp 2A to illuminate in order to distinguish between the several model-specific storage sections. In the lighting control example shown in Fig. 6, the upper shelf indicator lamp 2A of the sixth storage section 26 illuminates red, indicating the first model. The lower shelf indicator lamp 2A of the sixth storage section 26 illuminates white, indicating the second model. The upper shelf indicator lamp 2A of the fifth storage section 25 illuminates blue, indicating the fourth model, and the lower shelf indicator lamp 2A illuminates green, indicating the third model. In storage area A1, all shelf indicator lamps 2A from the first storage section 21 to the fourth storage section 24 are switched off. As described above, shelf indicator lamp 2A is a type of indicator that distinguishes storage area A1 and input / output area A31 by its illumination. The employee can identify input / output area A31 by the illumination of shelf indicator lamp 2A, enabling them to perform input and output operations at the conveyor feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). This reduces the likelihood of the employee accidentally entering storage area A1 and interfering with the transfer device 5. Furthermore, shelf indicator lamp 2A distinguishes the model-specific storage sections for the first through fourth models by a different illumination color.Since the employee can check the model of the conveyor feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) by observing the lighting color of the shelf indicator lamp 2A, the storage and retrieval operations are made more efficient. A fully occupied state can occur here, in which belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are stored in all storage positions 29 of the storage compartments (27, 28) that have been set up in a model-specific storage section for one model. In this case, the setting section 61 changes and moves the storage compartments (27, 28) that were set up in storage area A1 and are empty to the model-specific storage section for that one model. As a concrete example, a filled state can occur in which the conveyor feeder 8A of the first model is stored in all storage positions 29 of the upper storage compartment 27 of the sixth storage area 26. In this case, the adjusting device 61 changes its setting and assigns the upper storage compartment 27 of the fourth storage area 24, which was set up in storage area A1 and is empty, to the model-specific storage section for the first model. Furthermore, the adjusting device 61 illuminates the upper shelf indicator lamp 2A of the fourth storage area 24 red to indicate the presence of the first model. This setting change modifies the areas of storage area A1 and the input / output area A31. The boundary DL between storage area A1 and input / output area A31 is a polygonal line, represented in Fig. 6 by a single-point dashed line.Furthermore, if all storage positions 29 of the upper storage compartment 27 of the fifth storage 25 are occupied with belt feeders 8D of the fourth model, the setting section 61 changes and sets the lower storage compartment 28 of the fourth storage 24 to the model-specific storage section for the fourth model and the shelf indicator lamp 2A of the lower shelf lights up blue to indicate the fourth model. In the above setting example, setting section 61 performs the setting and modification of the area and the model-specific storage section in units of storage compartments (27, 28). As a further setting procedure 1, setting section 61 can perform the setting in units of storage locations (21 to 26). For example, if the older-type belt feeder 8D of the fourth model is no longer used as a replacement product under normal circumstances, setting section 61 can set the first storage location 21 to the third storage location 23 in storage area A1 and the fourth storage location 24 to the sixth storage location 26 in input / output area A31. Furthermore, setting section 61 can assign the sixth storage location 26 to the model-specific storage section for the first model, the fifth storage location 25 to the model-specific storage section for the second model, and the fourth storage location 24 to the model-specific storage section for the third model. Furthermore, as an additional setting procedure 2, the setting section 61 can adjust the storage positions 29 in units of several storage locations. In this case, the setting section 61 controls the illumination of the position indicator lamp 2B or the indicator lamp 87 of the belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) instead of the shelf indicator lamp 2A. For example, the setting section 61 can assign eight storage positions 29 on the right side of the lower storage compartment 28 of the sixth storage unit 26 to the model-specific storage section for the second model and six storage positions 29 on the left side to the model-specific storage section for the third model. Thus, the lower storage compartment 28 of the sixth storage unit 26 can accommodate four belt feeders 8B of the second model and two belt feeders 8C of the third model. In addition, the setting section 61 can omit the setting of the model-specific storage section.In this case, the tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are stored in the input and output area A31 without differentiation according to models. 5. Detailed function of the collection command section 62 and operation related to the collection process The detailed functions of the collection command section 62 and an operation of the feeder storage system 1 in connection with a collection operation are described below with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) used in the component assembler 9 are picked up from the component assembler 9 by an automated guided vehicle 7 and transported to the delivery area A2. The subsequent operation in connection with the collection operation is primarily carried out by the collection command section 62. The collection operation is carried out when a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that has consumed all the components from the reel RL is collected. Furthermore, the pickup operation is carried out when belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are no longer used due to a change in the type of sheet product being manufactured are picked up. Based on production plan 9C, collective command section 62 determines a transfer destination within the system for the conveyor belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) transported to delivery area A2. Specifically, collective command section 62 designates storage area A1 as the transfer destination for the conveyor belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) whose use is specified in production plan 9C. Furthermore, collective command section 62 designates an empty storage position 29 in storage area A1, near delivery area A2, as the transfer destination for the conveyor belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) designated for use. In particular, the first storage location 21, which is closest to the delivery area A2, is prioritized as the transfer destination for the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) arranged for use, and the upper storage compartment 27 with high transfer efficiency is prioritized. In Figures 6 and 8, the upper storage compartment 27 of the first storage location 21 is full, and storage position 29 of the lower storage compartment 28 is determined as the transfer destination. In this case, the second storage location 22 through the fourth storage location 24 are empty. If the lower storage compartment 28 of the first storage location 21 subsequently becomes full, storage position 29 of the upper storage compartment 27 of the second storage location 22 is determined as the transfer destination. Consequently, the next time the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are used, the transport distance from storage area A1 to delivery area A2 is shortened, further improving the transport efficiency of the transport device 5.In storage area A1, unlike in the input and output area A31, it is not necessary to store the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) separately according to model. Furthermore, the collective command section 62 designates work area A3 as the transfer destination for tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are not designated for use in production plan 9C. Work area A3 can be the input / output area A31 or the holder attachment / removal area A32. More precisely, collective command section 62 determines the transfer destination based on information about the presence or absence of components, indicating whether a component is still on the spool RL loaded into the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Collective command section 62 instructs the transfer device 5 to transport the tape feeder to the designated transfer destination. Fig. 7 illustrates the overall process of the feeder storage system 1 in connection with the collection operation. In step S1 of Fig. 7, the automated guided vehicle 7 transports the feeder magazine 71, loaded at the component assembler 9, to the delivery area A2 (departure / arrival station 3). This transport operation is represented by arrow M1 in Fig. 8. The feeder magazine 71 being transported holds several belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that were used in the component assembler 9. The model configuration of the several belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) can be changed for each collection operation. Parallel to the transport operation described above, the identification information and the information about the presence or absence of components of the several belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are transmitted from the line management device 9B to the control device 6. In the next step S2, the collective command section 62 selects a tape feeder in the feeder magazine 71, for example, tape feeder 8A of the first model, as the processing destination. In the next step S3, the collective command section 62 causes the sequence to branch based on information about the presence or absence of components of tape feeder 8A as the processing destination. If the component is present, the sequence branches to step S11. In step S4, if no component is present, the collective command section 62 determines the holder attachment / removal area A32 (coil attachment / removal device 4) as the transfer destination and instructs the transfer device 5 to transfer the tape feeder to the specified transfer destination. The transfer device 5 transports the tape feeder 8A from the feeder magazine 71 to the coil attachment / removal device 4 and inserts the tape feeder 8A through the feeder insertion opening 414 into the interior.This transfer process is illustrated by arrow M4 in Fig. 8. In the next step, S5, the coil mounting / removal device 4 removes the empty coil RL from the tape feeder 8A. In the next step S6, the collective command section 62 determines the input / output area A31 as the transfer destination for the tape feeder 8A. Even if the tape feeder 8A is positioned for use, the transfer destination is not the storage area A1, but the input / output area A31, because the reel RL is not loaded there. Furthermore, the collective command section 62 determines a model-specific storage area into which the tape feeder 8A is to be transferred, based on the model of the tape feeder 8A. Specifically, the collective command section 62 determines the upper storage compartment 27 of the sixth storage area 26 as the model-specific storage area into which the tape feeder 8A is to be transferred, based on the fact that the tape feeder 8A is the first model. In the next step S7, the setting section 61 checks whether the identified model-specific storage section is full; specifically, it checks whether the upper storage compartment 27 of the sixth storage unit 26 is full. In step S8, if the identified model-specific storage section is full, the setting section 61 modifies and defines the model-specific storage section; specifically, it modifies and defines the upper storage compartment 27 of the fourth storage unit 24 as the new model-specific storage section. If the identified model-specific storage section is not full, step S8 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S9. In step S9, which follows step S7 or step S8, the collective command section 62 determines the model-specific storage section defined or modified by the setting section 61 as the transfer destination and instructs the transfer device 5 to transfer the tape feeder to the determined transfer destination. The transfer device 5 removes the tape feeder 8A from the feeder insertion opening 414 of the reel mounting / removal device 4 and transports the tape feeder 8A to the designated model-specific storage section. The transfer process when the upper storage compartment 27 of the sixth storage compartment 26 is not filled is illustrated in Fig. 8 by arrow M9. After execution of step S9, the process proceeds to step S10. In step S11, which branches off from step S3, the collective command section 62 determines whether the use of the conveyor feeder 8A is scheduled in production plan 9C. If the conveyor feeder 8A is not scheduled for use, the collective command section 62 causes the process to proceed to step S6. That is, the collective command section 62 transfers the conveyor feeder 8A, which still contains a component and is not scheduled for use, in its current state to the input and output area A31 and schedules the output work by the operator. Alternatively, if the conveyor feeder 8A is not scheduled for use, the collective command section 62 can cause the process to proceed to step S4 (see dashed arrow in Fig. 7).This means that the collective command section 62 directs the tape feeder 8A, which still contains a component and is not arranged for use, to the spool mounting / removal device 4, where the spool RL is removed, and instructs the worker to transport the tape feeder 8A and the spool RL separately. Furthermore, in step S11, if the use of the belt feeder 8A is specified in production plan 9C, the collective command section 62 defines the empty storage position 29 in storage area A1 near delivery area A2 as the transfer destination for the belt feeder 8A and instructs the transfer device 5 to transfer the belt feeder 8A to the specified transfer destination. The transfer device 5 transports the belt feeder 8A from the feeder magazine 71 to the specified storage position 29. This transfer process is illustrated in Fig. 8 by arrow M12. The process then proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the collective command section 62 checks whether the feeder magazine 71 is empty or whether there are still belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) present. If there are still belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) in the feeder magazine 71, the collective command section 62 returns to process step S2, selects the next belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), and repeats the process from step S3. If the feeder magazine 71 is empty, the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, the operator removes the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) not in use from the input and output area A31 and returns them, for example, to an equipment storage area for long-term storage. This removal is represented by arrow M13 in Fig. 8. The collection process then concludes. At the end of the collection process, the ready-to-use belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are scheduled for use in production plan 9C and are loaded with RL reels are stored in storage area A1. Additionally, belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that are scheduled for use but not loaded with RL reels are stored in storage and retrieval area A31. 6. Detailed function of setup command section 63 and procedure related to the setup process The detailed functions of the setup command section 63 and an operation of the feeder storage system 1 in connection with a setup sequence are described below with reference to Figures 9 and 10. The belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be used next in the component assembler 9 are transported from delivery area A2 to the component assembler 9 by an automated guided vehicle 7. The operation associated with the preceding setup operation is primarily carried out by the setup command section 63. The setup operation is executed when a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) is set up to replace a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that has consumed all the components from reel RL. In addition, the setup process is performed when a new belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) is set up according to the change in the type of plate product to be manufactured. Based on production plan 9C, the setup command section 63 selects the belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be transported from storage area A1 to component assembler 9 by the automated guided vehicle 7 and instructs the transfer device 5 to transport the selected belt feeder to delivery area A2. The transfer device 5, having received the command, transports the selected belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Accordingly, the set-up belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are automatically placed in the feeder magazine 71 of delivery area A2. In many cases, the existing tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) stored in storage area A1 are insufficient, and it is necessary to set up another tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to load the reel RL. Therefore, when the reel RL, designated for use in production plan 9C, is inserted into the reel loading / unloading device 4, the setup command section 63 selects a tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) from input / output area A31 that is compatible with the inserted reel RL and instructs the transfer device 5 to transport the selected tape feeder to the reel loading / unloading device 4. The transfer device 5, having received the command, then transfers the selected tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Accordingly, in the coil mounting / removal device 4, the coil RL is automatically loaded into the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). Furthermore, setup command section 63 instructs the transmission device 5 to transport the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) loaded with the spool RL at the spool mounting / removal device 4 to storage area A1 or delivery area A2. The transmission device 5, having received the command, transports the selected tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). In particular, setup command section 63 causes the tape feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be used shortly to be transported directly from the spool mounting / removal device 4 to the feeder magazine 71 in delivery area A2, thus enabling early transport to the component assembler 9. Furthermore, the setup command section 63 sets up the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) to be used in the future in advance and stores the belt feeders in storage area A1 until they are needed for operation. Fig. 9 illustrates the overall sequence of the feeder storage system 1 in conjunction with the setup sequence. When the setup sequence is started, the empty feeder magazine 71 is placed on the departure / arrival station 3. In step S21 of Fig. 9, the line management device 9B transmits the production plan 9C, which specifies the required setup sequence according to the progress of the sheet processing or the change in sheet type. The setup command section 63 receives the production plan 9C. In the next step S22, the setup command section 63 selects one of several assignment pieces of information contained in the production plan 9C. As described above, the assignment pieces of information are those in which a component type is assigned to a model of the belt feeder to be used (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D).In the next step, S23, the setup command section 63 checks whether a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) matching the assignment information is located in storage area A1. If a belt feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) matching the assignment information is present, the process branches to step S31. In step S24, if no tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) matching the assignment information is present, setup command section 63 prompts the operator to bring in a tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) and a reel RL that match the assignment information. In the next step, S25, the operator, having received the prompt, brings the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that meets the assignment information but is not loaded with the reel RL into the input / output area A31. This bringing-in process is represented by arrow M25 in Fig. 10. In the next step, S26, the operator brings the reel RL that matches the assignment information into the reel holding / removal device 4. This bringing-in process is represented by arrow M26 in Fig. 10. In the next step S27, the transmission device 5 transports the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) in the input and output area A31 to the reel mounting / removal device 4.This transfer process is illustrated in Fig. 10 by the arrow M27. It should be noted that a tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) that meets the assignment information but is not equipped with reel RL can remain in input / output area A31. In this case, command section 63 in step S24 only needs to instruct the operator to insert only the reel RL that meets the assignment information, and furthermore, step S25 is skipped. In step S28, the coil securing / removal device 4 loads the coil RL, which was inserted by the operator, into the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) transferred by the transfer device 5. In step S29 and the following steps, it is assumed that the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) is used immediately. In step S29, the setup command section 63 instructs the transfer device 5 to transfer the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), loaded with the coil RL by the coil securing / removal device 4, to the delivery area A2. The transfer device 5, which has received the command, transfers the selected tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). This transport operation is represented in Fig. 10 by arrow M29. After execution of step S29, the process proceeds to step S30. Furthermore, in step S31, which branches off from step S23, the setup command section 63 instructs the transmission device 5 to transport the tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) equipped with the spool RL from storage area A1 to delivery area A2. The transmission device 5, which has received the command, transports the selected tape feeder (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). This transport process is illustrated in Fig. 10 by arrow M31. The process then proceeds to step S30. In step S30, the transfer device 5 places the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) into the feeder magazine 71. In the next step S32, the setup command section 63 determines whether this is the last assignment information. If not, the setup command section 63 returns to step S22, selects the next assignment information, and repeats the process from step S23. If the assignment information is the last, the setup process ends. The feeder magazine 71, which holds the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), is then transported by an automated guided vehicle 7 from delivery area A2 to the component assembler 9. In the feeder storage system 1 of this embodiment, the delivery area A2, where belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) are transferred to or removed from the automated guided vehicle 7, and the work area A3, where predetermined tasks are performed by the worker, are arranged separately from each other via the storage area A1. Accordingly, the movement paths of the automated guided vehicle 7 and the worker are separated, so that their tasks do not overlap. Furthermore, the possibilities for work overlaps between the transfer device 5 and the worker are reduced. Even if, for example, the transfer device 5 performs the transfer process between the storage area A1 and the delivery area A2 in parallel with the worker performing the predetermined tasks in the work area A3, no disruption occurs because their movement paths are separate.Therefore, it is possible to reduce the waiting times caused by work (or operational) overlaps between the automated guided vehicle 7, the transmission device 5 and the worker, and to suppress a decline in work efficiency. 7. Applications and modifications of the embodiment In the feeder storage system 1 of the embodiment, the adjustment section 61 can make a setting for subdividing the storage area A1 based on several applications. For example, the adjustment section 61 can assign a component assembler 9 to each of the first storage area 21 to the third storage area 23 in storage area A1, or assign the type of sheet product to each of the several storage compartments (27, 28). In addition, the adjustment section 61 can be omitted, and the storage area A1, the input and output area A31, and the model-specific storage section can be fixed. Furthermore, the coil fastening / removal device 4 can be replaced by a feed support device. The feed support device supports the belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) used by the transfer device 5, opens the opening / closing plate 813, and assists the operator in attaching and removing the coil RL. Additionally, rod feeders can be used instead of belt feeders (8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), and the coil fastening / removal device 4 can be replaced by a rod fastening / removal device. The rod feeder has a removable cylindrical rod containing several components and is mounted in slot 932 of the pallet table 931. The rod fastening / removal device automatically attaches the rod to or removes it from the rod feeder, and the insertion / removal of the rod is performed by the operator.Various other applications and modifications can also be made to the embodiment. List of reference symbols 1: Feeder storage system, 21 to 26: Storage, 27, 28: Storage rack, 29: Storage position, 2A: Rack indicator lamp, 2B: Position indicator lamp, 3: Departure / arrival station, 4: Coil securing / removal device, 5: Transfer device, 52: Intrusion monitoring sensor, 53: Control section, 56: Movement limiting section, 6: Control device, 61: Adjustment section, 62: Collect command section, 63: Setup command section, 7: Automated guided vehicle, 71: Feeder magazine, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D: Belt feeder, 86: Feeder control section, 87: Indicator lamp, 9: Component assembler, 9A: Panel processing line, 9B: Line management device, 9C: Production plan, A1: Storage area, A2: Output area, A3: Working area, A31: Input / output area, A32: Holder attachment / removal area, K: Plate, RL: Coil QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION 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 WO 2021 / 106025

[0004] WO 2023 / 286209

[0040] WO 2022 / 118380

[0046]

Claims

A feeder storage system comprising: a storage area in which several component feeders, interchangeably mounted on an assembly machine, are stored, the several component feeders being configured to feed components; a delivery area arranged adjacent to the storage area in which the component feeder is delivered to and from a conveying device configured to transport the component to the component assembler; a work area arranged on a side of the storage area opposite the delivery area in which a worker performs predetermined work related to the component feeder; and a transfer device configured to transfer the component feeder between the storage area, the delivery area, and the work area. The feeder storage system according to claim 1, further comprising: one or more bearings forming the storage area and the working area, wherein the bearings each have multiple storage positions in which the respective multiple component feeders can be stored; and a setting section configured to designate a portion of the bearings or storage positions near the delivery area as the storage area and a remaining portion of the bearings or storage positions far from the delivery area as the working area. A feeder storage system comprising: one or more storage units, each having multiple storage positions in which multiple component feeders, interchangeably mounted on a component assembler, can be stored, the multiple component feeders being configured to feed components; a delivery area arranged adjacent to the storage units, in which the component feeder is delivered to and from a conveying device configured to perform transport to the component assembler; a setting section configured to designate a portion of the storage units or storage positions near the delivery area as the storage area in which the multiple component feeders are stored, and a remaining portion of the storage units or storage positions far from the delivery area as the work area in which predetermined work relating to the component feeder is performed by a worker;and a transmission device configured to transfer the component feeder between the storage area, the feeding area, and the working area. The feeder storage system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the work area comprises an input and output area in which at least either the input or output work of the component feeder is performed by the worker. The feeder storage system according to claim 4, wherein the adjustment section distributes and adjusts the multiple storages or the multiple storage positions onto the storage area and the input and output area. The feeder storage system according to claim 5, wherein in a filled state in which the component feeders are stored in all storages or all storage positions assigned in the input and output area, the adjustment section changes and assigns the storage or storage position assigned in the storage area that is empty to the input and output area. The feeder storage system according to claim 4, further comprising: a display section configured to distinguishably display the storage area and the input and output area defined by the setting section. The feeder storage system according to claim 4, wherein the adjustment section divides the multiple storages or the multiple storage positions defined in the input and output area into multiple model-specific storage sections, which are subdivided according to multiple models of the component feeder. The feeder storage system according to claim 8, wherein in a filled state in which the component feeders are stored in all bearings or all bearing positions defined in the model-specific storage section for a model, the setting section changes and defines the bearing or bearing position defined in the storage area and is empty, in the model-specific storage section for that one model. The feeder storage system according to claim 8, further comprising: a display area configured to display in a distinguishable manner the multiple model-specific storage areas defined by the setting area. The feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the component feeder is detachably equipped with a component holder configured to hold multiple components, and the work area comprises a holder attachment / removal area in which a holder attachment / removal device is arranged, wherein the holder attachment / removal device is configured to attach or remove the component holder from the component feeder and to enable the worker to perform an insertion / removal operation of the component holder. The feeder storage system according to claim 11, wherein the component holder is a coil around which a carrier tape holding several components is wound. The feeder storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a collection command section configured, based on a production plan for a plate on which the component supplied by the component feeder is to be assembled in the component assembler, to determine a transfer destination for the component feeder, which has been conveyed by the component assembler through the conveying device to the delivery area, namely as a storage area if the use of the component feeder is ordered in the production plan, and as a working area if the use of the component feeder is not ordered, and which is designed to communicate the transfer destination to the user. The feeder storage system according to claim 13, further comprising: one or more bearings forming the storage area, wherein the bearings each have several storage positions in which the respective multiple component feeders can be stored, wherein the collection command section determines the empty storage position located near the delivery area as the transfer target of the component feeder arranged for use. The feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a setup command section configured to select from the storage area the component feeder to be conveyed by the conveying device to the component assembler, based on a production plan for a plate on which the component supplied by the component feeder is to be assembled in the component assembler, and configured to command the conveying device to transfer the component feeder to the delivery area. The feeder storage system according to claim 15, wherein the component feeder is detachably equipped with a component holder configured to hold multiple components, the work area comprises an input and output area in which at least either the input or output operation of the component feeder is performed by the worker, and a holder attachment / removal area in which a holder attachment / removal device is arranged, wherein the holder attachment / removal device is configured to attach or remove the component holder from the component feeder and to enable the worker to insert or remove a component.to carry out the removal process of the component holder, and the setup command section is configured so that, when the component holder ordered for use in the production plan is placed into the holder attachment / removal device, it selects from the input and output area the component feeder that is compatible with the inserted component holder, and commands the transfer device to transfer the selected component feeder to the holder attachment / removal device, and further instructs the transfer device to convey the component feeder loaded with the component holder through the holder attachment / removal device into the storage area or the output area. The feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the conveying device is an automated guided vehicle configured to load a feeder magazine that receives the multiple component feeders into the delivery area and to drive to the vicinity of the component assembler, and the transfer device inserts the component feeders into the feeder magazine arranged in the delivery area. The feeder storage system according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a movement limitation section configured to detect an intruding object that has entered a movement area in which the transfer device moves between the storage area, the delivery area and the working area, and to limit the movement of the transfer device.

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