Method and device for assembling packing box

Abstract

A method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part is the method executing, by an actuator, lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, wherein the method includes an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged, a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and device for assembling a packing box.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] PTL 1 discloses a device for assembling a cardboard tray in which insertion pieces provided continuously outside corner pieces provided at both ends of an inner plate are inserted into insertion holes along an insertion guide.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0003] PTL 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-083495SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present disclosure provides a method and device for assembling a packing box that automate a lock fixation process in a packing box.

[0005] A method for assembling a packing box of an aspect of the present disclosure is the method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part, and the method executing, by an actuator, lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, wherein the method includes an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged, a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

[0006] A device for assembling a packing box according to an aspect of the present disclosure is the device for assembling a packing box including a box part and a lid part, and forming lock fixation between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, the device includes a guide member that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged, an arrangement actuator for arranging the guide member to the part to be engaged, a guide actuator that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion actuator that inserts the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the lock fixation process in the packing box can be automated.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view illustrating an example of a device for assembling a packing box according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the packing box illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining movement of a first actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining a preparation step by the first actuator illustrated in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining movement of a second actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining a bending step by the second actuator illustrated in Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a bending step by a third actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement step by a fourth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement step by a fifth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining a guidance step by a sixth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining a guidance step by a seventh actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining an insertion step by the seventh actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining an insertion step by an eighth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a preparation step in the method of assembling a packing box. Fig. 15A is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a bending step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a bending step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an arrangement step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a guidance step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an insertion step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 19 is a flowchart of an assembling method of the packing box. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(Knowledge and the like underlying the present disclosure)

[0009] For example, in various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC), a packing box for housing the products in a packaged state is used. The packing box includes a box part and a lid part covering the box part, and may include lock fixation for locking the lid part in a closed state with respect to the box part. The lock fixation is formed, for example, by inserting a tongue-shaped engagement part provided in the box part into a part to be engaged provided in the lid part.

[0010] In an assembly process of a packing box, lock fixation of inserting an engagement part into a part to be engaged is manually performed by an operator, but automation by a machine is desired. However, since the engagement part extends from the box part through the fold line and has a shape in which the engagement part is bent in an L shape with respect to a base part, the engagement part is in a so-called non-rigid state. Therefore, since it is difficult to retain the engagement part in a certain constant shape, it is difficult to accurately position and insert the engagement part with respect to the part to be engaged, which is a factor that hinders automation by a machine.

[0011] Therefore, the present inventors have found a method and device for assembling a packing box that automate a lock fixation process in the packing box, and have reached the following invention.

[0012] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, identical or corresponding elements depicted in all the drawings are denoted with identical reference marks; therefore, the duplicate description thereof will be omitted. Further, the drawings show mainly constituent elements schematically to facilitate understanding. Further, the constituent elements of the packing box and the assembly device which are not directly related to the description are appropriately omitted from the drawings.(Exemplary embodiment)

[0013] An exemplary embodiment will be described below with reference to Figs. 1 to 19.[1-1. Configuration]

[0014] As illustrated in Fig. 1, assembly device 1 is used for assembling packing box 5 for housing various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC) in a packaged state. As illustrated in Figs. 14 to 18, assembly device 1 is particularly used for assembling packing box 5 having lock fixation formed by inserting engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9.

[0015] As illustrated in Fig. 1, assembly device 1 includes base frame 2, table 3, and a plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80. On table 3, packing box 5 used to form lock fixation is placed. Packing box 5 placed on table 3 is retained by retainers 15 disposed at four corners of packing box 5.

[0016] The plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 disposed on base frame 2 are devices that perform mechanical operations by a combination of a power source and a mechanical component, and execute various steps in a case of assembling packing box 5. The plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 are disposed on base frame 2.

[0017] Assembly device 1 includes a controller (not illustrated) that controls operations of the plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80. The controller includes, for example, a memory that stores a program, and a processing circuit corresponding to a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). In the controller, the processor executes the program stored in the memory. That is, the controller includes one or more processors and a memory that stores an instruction executed by the one or more processors. Details of each of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 will be described later.

[0018] Packing box 5 is made of paper or plastic, and is, for example, a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure. With such a configuration, a plate of packing box 5 has a hollow structure and hence, the plate of packing box 5 is lightweight and has high strength. Accordingly, weight reduction, high heat insulation property, easy processability, impact resistance and the like of packing box 5 can be realized.

[0019] As illustrated in Fig. 2, packing box 5 includes box part 6 and lid part 7. Box part 6 includes first side panel 6a, second side panel 6b, third side panel 6c, and fourth side panel 6d (illustrated in Fig. 3 and the like) connected through a side fold line, and bottom panel 6g extending from a certain side of the side panel through a bottom fold line. First side panel 6a and fourth side panel 6d face each other, and second side panel 6b and third side panel 6c face each other. First side panel 6a has engagement piece 8 as an engagement part. Engagement piece 8 is disposed, for example, on first side panel 6a, and extends from first side panel 6a through fold line 8a.

[0020] Lid part 7 extends from fourth side panel 6d through a lid part fold line (not illustrated). Lid part 7 is arranged to take a closed state covering an opening of box part 6 and an open state uncovering the opening of box part 6. As illustrated in Fig. 14, lid part 7 has lid flap 7a that is bent in an L shape and connected through flap fold line 7b. Lid flap 7a has a tongue shape and acts as an engagement part for a first lock fixation. Engagement gap 6j is formed between first side panel 6a and an inner flap (not illustrated) provided in each of second side panel 6b and third side panel 6c. Engagement gap 6j has an opening width and an opening length capable of receiving lid flap 7a, and locks the inserted lid flap 7a. Engagement gap 6j acts as a part to be engaged for first lock fixation.

[0021] Engagement slit 9 is formed along flap fold line 7b. Engagement slit 9 acts as a part to be engaged for second lock fixation. Engagement slit 9 has an opening width and an opening length capable of receiving engagement piece 8 as an engagement part for the second lock fixation, and locks the inserted engagement piece 8.

[0022] First actuator 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 3, and 4.

[0023] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4, assembly device 1 includes first actuator 10 having a function of separating engagement piece 8 from first side panel 6a of box part 6 as preparation for bending of engagement piece 8. First actuator 10 is disposed on a side of fourth side panel 6d and on a side of lid part 7. First actuator 10 includes first cylinder 11, first piston rod 12, and first movable portion 13. First cylinder 11 drives first piston rod 12 to freely move forward and backward along lid part 7. The forward movement is movement from fourth side panel 6d toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement from first side panel 6a toward fourth side panel 6d. First movable portion 13 connected to first piston rod 12 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8.

[0024] Second actuator 20 and third actuator 30 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 5, 6, and 7.

[0025] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 5, 6, and 7, assembly device 1 includes second actuator 20 having a function of bending engagement part 8 with bent portion 8b provided in a middle of engagement piece 8 in a longitudinal direction (direction from fold line 8a toward engagement distal end 8d) in cooperation with third actuator 30. That is, second actuator 20 acts as a bending actuator. Second actuator 20 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7. Second actuator 20 includes second cylinder 21, second piston rod 22, and second movable portion 23. Second cylinder 21 drives second piston rod 22 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g, and the backward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7. Second movable portion 23 connected to second piston rod 22 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8. Second movable portion 23 is arranged not to interfere with first movable portion 13.

[0026] As illustrated in Fig. 7, assembly device 1 includes third actuator 30 having a function of performing bending at bent portion 8b provided in the middle of engagement piece 8 in a longitudinal direction in cooperation with second actuator 20. That is, third actuator 30 acts as a bending actuator. Third actuator 30 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of bottom panel 6g. Third actuator 30 includes third cylinder 31, third piston rod 32, and third movable portion 33. Third cylinder 31 drives third piston rod 32 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7, and the backward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g. Third movable portion 33 connected to third piston rod 32 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8. Third movable portion 33 is arranged not to interfere with second movable portion 23.

[0027] Fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 8, and 9.

[0028] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 8, and 9, assembly device 1 includes fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 having a function of arranging in engagement slit 9 guide member 90 that guides engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9. That is, fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 act as arrangement actuators. Fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 are disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7.

[0029] Fourth actuator 40 includes motor 41 and support rod 42. Motor 41 linearly drives support rod 42 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g, and the backward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7. Fifth actuator 50 is supported by stay 43 connected to support rod 42 of fourth actuator 40. Fifth actuator 50 connected to support rod 42 moves linearly along first side panel 6a.

[0030] Fifth actuator 50 includes motor 51, support rod 52, and a guide attachment portion 53. The motor 51 linearly drives support rod 52 to freely move forward and backward along lid part 7. The forward movement is movement from first side panel 6a toward fourth side panel 6d, and the backward movement is movement from fourth side panel 6d toward first side panel 6a. Guide attachment portion 53 connected to support rod 52 moves linearly.

[0031] Guide member 90 is attached to guide attachment portion 53. Guide member 90 is a thin plate having a size and rigidity sufficient for being inserted into engagement slit 9 disposed in lid part 7. Guide member 90 includes guide portion 91 and support portion 92. Guide portion 91 is arranged to guide engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state. Support portion 92 extends from guide portion 91 and is bent in a crank shape to retract to an opposite side of engagement distal end 8d. That is, guide portion 91 is arranged not to interfere with third movable portion 33.

[0032] Sixth actuator 60 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 10.

[0033] As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 10, assembly device 1 includes sixth actuator 60 having a function of bending the bending angle of engagement distal end 8d to an acute angle to guide engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state by guide member 90. Sixth actuator 60 is integrally attached to third movable portion 33. Sixth actuator 60 includes sixth cylinder 61, sixth piston rod 62, and sixth movable portion 63. Sixth cylinder 61 drives sixth piston rod 62 to freely move forward and backward toward first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement away from first side panel 6a. Sixth movable portion 63 connected to sixth piston rod 62 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8.

[0034] Seventh actuator 70 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 11, and 12.

[0035] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 11, and 12, assembly device 1 includes seventh actuator 70 having a function of guiding engagement distal end 8d to engagement slit 9 by moving engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state along guide member 90. That is, seventh actuator 70 acts as a guide actuator. Seventh actuator 70 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of bottom panel 6g. Seventh actuator 70 includes seventh cylinder 71, seventh piston rod 72, and seventh movable portion 73. Seventh cylinder 71 drives seventh piston rod 72 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7, and the backward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g. Seventh movable portion 73 connected to seventh piston rod 72 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from base 8c of engagement piece 8. Seventh movable portion 73 is disposed closer to first side panel 6a than third movable portion 33.

[0036] Eighth actuator 80 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 13, and 18.

[0037] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 13, and 18, assembly device 1 includes eighth actuator 80 having a function of inserting engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9. That is, eighth actuator 80 acts as an insertion actuator. Eighth actuator 80 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7. Eighth actuator 80 includes eighth cylinder 81, eighth piston rod 82, and eighth movable portion 83. Eighth cylinder 81 drives eighth piston rod 82 to freely move forward and backward with respect to first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement away from first side panel 6a. Eighth movable portion 83 connected to eighth piston rod 82 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8.[1-2. Operation][1-2-1. Pre-preparation operation]

[0038] Fig. 3 illustrates a state where first piston rod 12 is in a retracted position and first movable portion 13 is separated from engagement piece 8. Fig. 4 illustrates a state where first piston rod 12 is at an extended position, and after first movable portion 13 abuts on engagement piece 8, engagement piece 8 is pressed to be separated from first side panel 6a of box part 6. As illustrated in Fig. 14, since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 rotates about fold line 8a as a rotation center by pressing force A of first movable portion 13. Since engagement part 8 is smoothly separated from box part 6, it is possible to suppress unnecessary deformation of engagement part 8 before the bending step. As a result, as shown in Fig. 15 A, engagement piece 8 extends obliquely at a certain inclination angle with respect to first side panel 6a.

[0039] Fig. 5 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 is in the retracted position and second movable portion 23 is separated from engagement piece 8. Fig. 6 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 is at the extended position, and engagement piece 8 is rotated after second movable portion 23 abuts on engagement piece 8. Since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 further rotates about fold line 8a by the pressing force of second movable portion 23. As a result, as shown in Figs. 6 and 15B, engagement piece 8 is inclined at a larger inclination angle with respect to first side panel 6a and extends, for example, substantially orthogonal to first side panel 6a. Then, first piston rod 12 moves to the retracted position, and first movable portion 13 separates from engagement piece 8.[1-2-2. Bending operation of engagement piece]

[0040] Fig. 7 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 and third piston rod 32 are at the extended positions, second movable portion 23 abuts on base 8c of engagement piece 8 and third movable portion 33 abuts on engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8, and third piston rod 32 further advances. Bent portion 8b extending in a direction (longitudinal orthogonal direction) orthogonal to the longitudinal direction is formed in the middle of engagement piece 8 in the longitudinal direction. As illustrated in Figs. 7 and 15B, pressing force B (force substantially perpendicular to engagement piece 8) of third movable portion 33 is applied to engagement piece 8. Thus, engagement piece 8 is bent by bent portion 8b. Engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 is deformed by second movable portion 23 and has a bent shape with respect to base 8c. Engagement distal end 8d is bent in an L shape with respect to base 8c at an angle of 90 degrees, for example.[1-2-3. Arrangement operation of guide member]

[0041] Fig. 8 illustrates a state where support rod 42 is in the retracted position and guide member 90 is separated from engagement slit 9. Fig. 9 illustrates a state where support rod 42 and support rod 52 are at the extended positions, and guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is positioned in engagement slit 9 and then inserted into engagement slit 9. As illustrated in Fig. 16, guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is inserted into engagement slit 9 by insertion force C of guide member 90. Engagement slit 9 where guide portion 91 is inserted has a gap where engagement piece 8 can be inserted on a side of engagement piece 8.[1-2-4. Bending operation of distal end]

[0042] Fig. 10 illustrates a state where sixth piston rod 62 is at the extended position, and sixth movable portion 63 abuts on engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 and then presses engagement distal end 8d. Engagement piece 8 is bent in an L shape at bent portion 8b, but engagement distal end 8d is rotated about bent portion 8b by the pressing force of sixth movable portion 63. As a result, the angle formed by engagement distal end 8d and base 8c of engagement piece 8 (a bending angle of engagement distal end 8d) is bent to form an acute angle. The bending angle of engagement distal end 8d is, for example, 45 degrees.[1-2-5. Guide operation of distal end by guide member]

[0043] Fig. 11 illustrates a state where seventh piston rod 72 is at a halfway position of forward movement, and seventh movable portion 73 moves while abutting on base 8c of engagement piece 8. Fig. 12 illustrates a state where seventh piston rod 72 is at a position further advanced than the intermediate position in Fig. 11, and engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 is partially inserted into engagement slit 9.

[0044] Due to pressing force D of seventh movable portion 73, engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 moves in a contact state along guide portion 91 of guide member 90 and is guided into engagement slit 9. As a result, as illustrated in Fig. 17, engagement distal end 8d is partially inserted into engagement slit 9. When the guiding operation of engagement distal end 8d with respect to engagement slit 9 is executed, as illustrated in Fig. 12, after guide attachment portion 53 moves to the retracted position, support rod 42 moves to the retracted position. As a result, guide member 90 is located at the retracted position away from packing box 5.[1-2-6. Insertion operation of distal end]

[0045] Fig. 13 illustrates a state where eighth piston rod 82 is at the extended position, and eighth movable portion 83 is pressing engagement piece 8 after abutting on engagement piece 8. Since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 is rotated about fold line 8a by pressing force E of eighth movable portion 83. As a result, as illustrated in Fig. 18, engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 partially inserted into engagement slit 9 is completely inserted into engagement slit 9.[1-2-7. Overall assembly operation]

[0046] A method for assembling packing box 5 using assembly device 1 configured as described above will be generally described with reference to Fig. 19.

[0047] In Fig. 19, in packing box 5 having box part 6 and lid part 7, a lock fixation process for forming lock fixation between box part 6 and lid part 7 is started by inserting engagement piece 8 provided in box part 6 into engagement slit 9 provided in lid part 7 (step S1).

[0048] In step S2, a step of positioning and retaining packing box 5 placed on table 3 of assembly device 1 is performed using retainer 15 of assembly device 1.

[0049] In step S3, a preparation step of performing preparation for bending engagement piece 8 using first actuator 10 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0050] In step S4, a bending step of bending engagement piece 8 at bent portion 8b in the longitudinal direction of engagement piece 8 using second actuator 20 and third actuator 30 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0051] In step S5, an arrangement step of arranging guide member 90 that guides engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9 in engagement slit 9 using fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0052] In step S6, a guidance step of guiding engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9 by moving engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 along guide member 90 using sixth actuator 60 and seventh actuator 70 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0053] In step S7, an insertion step of inserting engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9 using eighth actuator 80 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0054] Then, in step S8, the lock fixation process of forming lock fixation between box part 6 and lid part 7 ends.[1-3. Effects]

[0055] As described above, the assembling method of the present exemplary embodiment is the method for assembling packing box 5 including box part 6 and lid part 7. By inserting engagement part 8 (7a) placed on one of box part 6 and lid part 7 into part to be engaged 9 (6j) placed on the other of box part 6 and lid part 7, lock fixation formed between box part 6 and lid part 7 is executed by the actuator. The method for assembling packing box 5 includes an arrangement step, a guidance step, and an insertion step. In the arrangement step, guide member 90 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j) is arranged on part to be engaged 9 (6j). In the guidance step, engagement part 8 (7a) is guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j) by moving engagement part 8 along guide member 90. In the insertion step, engagement part 8 (7a) is inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0056] As a result, since engagement part 8 (7a) is guided to move along guide member 90 into part to be engaged 9 (6j), engagement part 8 (7a) is easily and stably inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j). Therefore, the lock fixation process in packing box 5 can be automated.

[0057] As in the present exemplary embodiment, engagement part 8 may be provided in box part 6, and part to be engaged 9 may be provided in lid part 7.

[0058] As a result, after the first lock fixation where engagement part 7a of lid part 7 is inserted into part to be engaged 6j of box part 6 is formed, the second lock fixation where engagement part 8 of box part 6 is inserted into part to be engaged 9 of lid part 7 can be formed. Therefore, double locking in packing box 5 can be easily realized.

[0059] As in the present exemplary embodiment, a bending step of bending engagement part 8 by bent portion 8b provided in the middle of engagement part 8 in the longitudinal direction may be further included.

[0060] As a result, the shape of engagement part 8 is adjusted. Therefore, the guiding operation of distal end 8d of engagement part 8 with respect to part to be engaged 9 is stabilized.

[0061] As in the present exemplary embodiment, in the arrangement step, guide member 90 may be inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0062] As a result, the arrangement of guide member 90 with respect to part to be engaged 9 (6j) is stabilized. Therefore, engagement part 8 (7a) can be easily and reliably guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0063] As in the present exemplary embodiment, before the bending step, a preparation step of rotating engagement part 8 with fold line 8a formed at the boundary between box part 6 and engagement part 8 as a rotation center may be provided.

[0064] As a result, engagement part 8 is smoothly separated from box part 6. This makes it possible to suppress unnecessary deformation of engagement part 8 before the bending step.

[0065] As in the present exemplary embodiment, guide member 90 may have guide portion 91 that guides engagement part 8 (7a), and support portion 92 that extends from guide portion 91 and is bent to retract to an opposite side of engagement part 8 (7a).

[0066] As a result, a space is formed on a side of engagement part 8 (7a) in support portion 92. This makes it possible to avoid interference of guide member 90 with support portion 92 in the assembly process.

[0067] As in the present exemplary embodiment, packing box 5 may be a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure.

[0068] With such a configuration, a plate of packing box 5 has a hollow structure and hence, the plate of packing box 5 is lightweight and has high strength. Accordingly, weight reduction, high heat insulation property, easy processability, impact resistance and the like of packing box 5 can be realized.

[0069] Assembly device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment is an assembly device of packing box 5 including box part 6 and lid part 7. By inserting engagement part 8 (7a) placed on one of box part 6 and lid part 7 into part to be engaged 9 (6j) placed on the other of box part 6 and lid part 7, lock fixation is formed between box part 6 and lid part 7. Assembly device 1 of packing box 5 includes guide member 90 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j), arrangement actuators 40, 50 that arrange guide member 90 on part to be engaged 9 (6j), guide actuator 70 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j) by moving engagement part 8 (7a) along guide member 90, and insertion actuator 80 that inserts engagement part 8 (7a) into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0070] Thus, in assembly device 1, since engagement part 8 (7a) is guided to move along guide member 90 into part to be engaged 9 (6j), engagement part 8 (7a) is easily and stably inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j). Therefore, the lock fixation process in packing box 5 can be automated.(Other exemplary embodiments)

[0071] As described above, the above exemplary embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technique in the present disclosure is not limited to the above exemplary embodiment, and can also be applied to exemplary embodiments in which change, substitution, addition, omission, and the like are performed. A new exemplary embodiment can also be made by combining the respective constituent elements described in the exemplary embodiments above.

[0072] In the exemplary embodiment described above, as lock fixation of packing box 5, an aspect (second lock fixation) where engagement piece 8 (engagement part) provided in box part 6 is inserted into engagement slit 9 (part to be engaged) provided in lid part 7 is disclosed. However, the lock fixation of packing box 5 may be performed in a mode (first lock fixation) where lid flap 7a (engagement part) provided on lid part 7 is inserted into engagement gap 6j (part to be engaged) provided on box part 6. Since lid flap 7a is usually used in a state of extending in a flat plate shape, in a case where lid flap 7a of lid part 7 is inserted into engagement gap 6j of box part 6, the above-described preparation step and bending step are omitted.

[0073] In the above exemplary embodiment, the corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure is exemplified as packing box 5, but a plate-shaped box having a solid structure may be used.

[0074] In the above exemplary embodiment, an aspect where guide member 90 is inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j) has been exemplified as the arrangement of guide member 90 with respect to part to be engaged 9 (6j), but an aspect where guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is arranged near part to be engaged 9 (6j) may be adopted. In this case, the guide surface of guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is configured to be positioned flush with the inner surface of lid part 7 or positioned inside the inner surface of lid part 7. With such a configuration, since engagement part 8 (7a) is smoothly guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j), and it is not necessary to consider the thickness of guide portion 91, the opening width of part to be engaged 9 (6j) can be effectively used.

[0075] In the above exemplary embodiment, the lock fixation of packing box 5 for packing an electrical appliance such as a laptop PC has been described, but the present invention is also applicable to the case of packing other products and the like.

[0076] As described above, the exemplary embodiment has been described as an example of the technique in the present disclosure. For that purpose, the accompanying drawings and the detailed description have been provided. Therefore, the constituent elements described in the accompanying drawings and in the detailed description not only include the constituent elements essential for solving the problem but also include, in order to exemplify the above technique, constituent elements that are not essential for solving the problem. Therefore, it should not be immediately recognized that these non-essential constituent elements are essential based on the fact that these non-essential constituent elements are described in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description.

[0077] In addition, since the above-described exemplary embodiments are intended to illustrate the technique in the present disclosure, various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims and equivalents thereof.(Overview of exemplary embodiments)

[0078] (1) A method for assembling a packing box of the present disclosure is the method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part, and the method executing, by an actuator, lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, wherein the method includes an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged, a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged. (2) In the method of (1), the engagement part may be arranged in the box part, and the part to be engaged may be arranged in the lid part. (3) The method of (2) may further include a bending step of bending the engagement part with a bent portion arranged in a middle of the engagement part in a longitudinal direction. (4) In the method of any one of (1) to (3), in the arrangement step, the guide member may be inserted into the part to be engaged. (5) The method of (3) or (4) may further include a preparation step of rotating the engagement part about a fold line formed at a boundary between the box part and the engagement part as a rotation center before the bending step. (6) In the method of any one of (1) to (5), the guide member may include a guide portion that guides the engagement part, and a support portion that extends from the guide portion and is bent to retract to an opposite side of the engagement part. (7) In the method of any one of (1) to (6), the packing box may be a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure. (8) A device for assembling a packing box including a box part and a lid part is the device forming lock fixation between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, the device includes a guide member that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged, an arrangement actuator for arranging the guide member to the part to be engaged, a guide actuator that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion actuator that inserts the engagement part into the part to be engaged. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0079] The present disclosure is applicable to assembly of a packing box for housing various products including electrical appliances in a packaged state.REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0080] 1assembly device 2base frame 3table 5packing box 6box part 6afirst side panel 6bsecond side panel 6cthird side panel 6dfourth side panel 6gbottom panel 6jengagement gap (part to be engaged) 7lid part 7alid flap (engagement part) 7bflap fold line 8engagement piece (engagement part) 8afold line 8bbent portion 8cbase 8dengagement distal end (distal end) 9engagement slit (part to be engaged) 10first actuator 11first cylinder 12first piston rod 13first movable portion 15retainer 20second actuator 21second cylinder 22second piston rod 23second movable unit 30third actuator 31third cylinder 32third piston rod 33third movable unit 40fourth actuator (arrangement actuator) 41motor 42support rod 43stay 50fifth actuator (arrangement actuator) 51motor 52support rod 53guide attachment portion 60sixth actuator 61sixth cylinder 62sixth piston rod 63sixth movable portion 70seventh actuator (guide actuator) 71seventh cylinder 72seventh piston rod 73seventh movable unit 80eighth actuator (insertion actuator) 81eighth cylinder 82eighth piston rod 83eighth movable unit 90guide member 91guide portion 92support portion Apressing force of first movable portion Bpressing force of third movable portion Cinsertion force of guide member Dpressing force of seventh movable portion Epressing force of eighth movable portion

Examples

Embodiment Construction

(Knowledge and the like underlying the present disclosure)

[0009]For example, in various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC), a packing box for housing the products in a packaged state is used. The packing box includes a box part and a lid part covering the box part, and may include lock fixation for locking the lid part in a closed state with respect to the box part. The lock fixation is formed, for example, by inserting a tongue-shaped engagement part provided in the box part into a part to be engaged provided in the lid part.

[0010]In an assembly process of a packing box, lock fixation of inserting an engagement part into a part to be engaged is manually performed by an operator, but automation by a machine is desired. However, since the engagement part extends from the box part through the fold line and has a shape in which the engagement part is bent in an L shape with respect to a base part, the engagement part is in a so-called non-rig...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and device for assembling a packing box.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] PTL 1 discloses a device for assembling a cardboard tray in which insertion pieces provided continuously outside corner pieces provided at both ends of an inner plate are inserted into insertion holes along an insertion guide.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0003] PTL 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-083495SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present disclosure provides a method and device for assembling a packing box that automate a lock fixation process in a packing box.

[0005] A method for assembling a packing box of an aspect of the present disclosure is the method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part, and the method executing, by an actuator, lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, wherein the method includes an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged, a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

[0006] A device for assembling a packing box according to an aspect of the present disclosure is the device for assembling a packing box including a box part and a lid part, and forming lock fixation between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, the device includes a guide member that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged, an arrangement actuator for arranging the guide member to the part to be engaged, a guide actuator that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion actuator that inserts the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the lock fixation process in the packing box can be automated.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view illustrating an example of a device for assembling a packing box according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the packing box illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining movement of a first actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining a preparation step by the first actuator illustrated in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining movement of a second actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining a bending step by the second actuator illustrated in Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a bending step by a third actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement step by a fourth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement step by a fifth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining a guidance step by a sixth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining a guidance step by a seventh actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining an insertion step by the seventh actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining an insertion step by an eighth actuator in the assembly device illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a preparation step in the method of assembling a packing box. Fig. 15A is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a bending step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a bending step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an arrangement step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a guidance step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an insertion step in the method for assembling the packing box. Fig. 19 is a flowchart of an assembling method of the packing box. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(Knowledge and the like underlying the present disclosure)

[0009] For example, in various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC), a packing box for housing the products in a packaged state is used. The packing box includes a box part and a lid part covering the box part, and may include lock fixation for locking the lid part in a closed state with respect to the box part. The lock fixation is formed, for example, by inserting a tongue-shaped engagement part provided in the box part into a part to be engaged provided in the lid part.

[0010] In an assembly process of a packing box, lock fixation of inserting an engagement part into a part to be engaged is manually performed by an operator, but automation by a machine is desired. However, since the engagement part extends from the box part through the fold line and has a shape in which the engagement part is bent in an L shape with respect to a base part, the engagement part is in a so-called non-rigid state. Therefore, since it is difficult to retain the engagement part in a certain constant shape, it is difficult to accurately position and insert the engagement part with respect to the part to be engaged, which is a factor that hinders automation by a machine.

[0011] Therefore, the present inventors have found a method and device for assembling a packing box that automate a lock fixation process in the packing box, and have reached the following invention.

[0012] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, identical or corresponding elements depicted in all the drawings are denoted with identical reference marks; therefore, the duplicate description thereof will be omitted. Further, the drawings show mainly constituent elements schematically to facilitate understanding. Further, the constituent elements of the packing box and the assembly device which are not directly related to the description are appropriately omitted from the drawings.(Exemplary embodiment)

[0013] An exemplary embodiment will be described below with reference to Figs. 1 to 19.[1-1. Configuration]

[0014] As illustrated in Fig. 1, assembly device 1 is used for assembling packing box 5 for housing various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC) in a packaged state. As illustrated in Figs. 14 to 18, assembly device 1 is particularly used for assembling packing box 5 having lock fixation formed by inserting engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9.

[0015] As illustrated in Fig. 1, assembly device 1 includes base frame 2, table 3, and a plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80. On table 3, packing box 5 used to form lock fixation is placed. Packing box 5 placed on table 3 is retained by retainers 15 disposed at four corners of packing box 5.

[0016] The plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 disposed on base frame 2 are devices that perform mechanical operations by a combination of a power source and a mechanical component, and execute various steps in a case of assembling packing box 5. The plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 are disposed on base frame 2.

[0017] Assembly device 1 includes a controller (not illustrated) that controls operations of the plurality of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80. The controller includes, for example, a memory that stores a program, and a processing circuit corresponding to a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). In the controller, the processor executes the program stored in the memory. That is, the controller includes one or more processors and a memory that stores an instruction executed by the one or more processors. Details of each of actuators 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 will be described later.

[0018] Packing box 5 is made of paper or plastic, and is, for example, a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure. With such a configuration, a plate of packing box 5 has a hollow structure and hence, the plate of packing box 5 is lightweight and has high strength. Accordingly, weight reduction, high heat insulation property, easy processability, impact resistance and the like of packing box 5 can be realized.

[0019] As illustrated in Fig. 2, packing box 5 includes box part 6 and lid part 7. Box part 6 includes first side panel 6a, second side panel 6b, third side panel 6c, and fourth side panel 6d (illustrated in Fig. 3 and the like) connected through a side fold line, and bottom panel 6g extending from a certain side of the side panel through a bottom fold line. First side panel 6a and fourth side panel 6d face each other, and second side panel 6b and third side panel 6c face each other. First side panel 6a has engagement piece 8 as an engagement part. Engagement piece 8 is disposed, for example, on first side panel 6a, and extends from first side panel 6a through fold line 8a.

[0020] Lid part 7 extends from fourth side panel 6d through a lid part fold line (not illustrated). Lid part 7 is arranged to take a closed state covering an opening of box part 6 and an open state uncovering the opening of box part 6. As illustrated in Fig. 14, lid part 7 has lid flap 7a that is bent in an L shape and connected through flap fold line 7b. Lid flap 7a has a tongue shape and acts as an engagement part for a first lock fixation. Engagement gap 6j is formed between first side panel 6a and an inner flap (not illustrated) provided in each of second side panel 6b and third side panel 6c. Engagement gap 6j has an opening width and an opening length capable of receiving lid flap 7a, and locks the inserted lid flap 7a. Engagement gap 6j acts as a part to be engaged for first lock fixation.

[0021] Engagement slit 9 is formed along flap fold line 7b. Engagement slit 9 acts as a part to be engaged for second lock fixation. Engagement slit 9 has an opening width and an opening length capable of receiving engagement piece 8 as an engagement part for the second lock fixation, and locks the inserted engagement piece 8.

[0022] First actuator 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 3, and 4.

[0023] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4, assembly device 1 includes first actuator 10 having a function of separating engagement piece 8 from first side panel 6a of box part 6 as preparation for bending of engagement piece 8. First actuator 10 is disposed on a side of fourth side panel 6d and on a side of lid part 7. First actuator 10 includes first cylinder 11, first piston rod 12, and first movable portion 13. First cylinder 11 drives first piston rod 12 to freely move forward and backward along lid part 7. The forward movement is movement from fourth side panel 6d toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement from first side panel 6a toward fourth side panel 6d. First movable portion 13 connected to first piston rod 12 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8.

[0024] Second actuator 20 and third actuator 30 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 5, 6, and 7.

[0025] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 5, 6, and 7, assembly device 1 includes second actuator 20 having a function of bending engagement part 8 with bent portion 8b provided in a middle of engagement piece 8 in a longitudinal direction (direction from fold line 8a toward engagement distal end 8d) in cooperation with third actuator 30. That is, second actuator 20 acts as a bending actuator. Second actuator 20 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7. Second actuator 20 includes second cylinder 21, second piston rod 22, and second movable portion 23. Second cylinder 21 drives second piston rod 22 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g, and the backward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7. Second movable portion 23 connected to second piston rod 22 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8. Second movable portion 23 is arranged not to interfere with first movable portion 13.

[0026] As illustrated in Fig. 7, assembly device 1 includes third actuator 30 having a function of performing bending at bent portion 8b provided in the middle of engagement piece 8 in a longitudinal direction in cooperation with second actuator 20. That is, third actuator 30 acts as a bending actuator. Third actuator 30 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of bottom panel 6g. Third actuator 30 includes third cylinder 31, third piston rod 32, and third movable portion 33. Third cylinder 31 drives third piston rod 32 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7, and the backward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g. Third movable portion 33 connected to third piston rod 32 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8. Third movable portion 33 is arranged not to interfere with second movable portion 23.

[0027] Fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 8, and 9.

[0028] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 8, and 9, assembly device 1 includes fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 having a function of arranging in engagement slit 9 guide member 90 that guides engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9. That is, fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 act as arrangement actuators. Fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 are disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7.

[0029] Fourth actuator 40 includes motor 41 and support rod 42. Motor 41 linearly drives support rod 42 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g, and the backward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7. Fifth actuator 50 is supported by stay 43 connected to support rod 42 of fourth actuator 40. Fifth actuator 50 connected to support rod 42 moves linearly along first side panel 6a.

[0030] Fifth actuator 50 includes motor 51, support rod 52, and a guide attachment portion 53. The motor 51 linearly drives support rod 52 to freely move forward and backward along lid part 7. The forward movement is movement from first side panel 6a toward fourth side panel 6d, and the backward movement is movement from fourth side panel 6d toward first side panel 6a. Guide attachment portion 53 connected to support rod 52 moves linearly.

[0031] Guide member 90 is attached to guide attachment portion 53. Guide member 90 is a thin plate having a size and rigidity sufficient for being inserted into engagement slit 9 disposed in lid part 7. Guide member 90 includes guide portion 91 and support portion 92. Guide portion 91 is arranged to guide engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state. Support portion 92 extends from guide portion 91 and is bent in a crank shape to retract to an opposite side of engagement distal end 8d. That is, guide portion 91 is arranged not to interfere with third movable portion 33.

[0032] Sixth actuator 60 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 10.

[0033] As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 10, assembly device 1 includes sixth actuator 60 having a function of bending the bending angle of engagement distal end 8d to an acute angle to guide engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state by guide member 90. Sixth actuator 60 is integrally attached to third movable portion 33. Sixth actuator 60 includes sixth cylinder 61, sixth piston rod 62, and sixth movable portion 63. Sixth cylinder 61 drives sixth piston rod 62 to freely move forward and backward toward first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement away from first side panel 6a. Sixth movable portion 63 connected to sixth piston rod 62 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8.

[0034] Seventh actuator 70 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 11, and 12.

[0035] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 11, and 12, assembly device 1 includes seventh actuator 70 having a function of guiding engagement distal end 8d to engagement slit 9 by moving engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 in the abutting state along guide member 90. That is, seventh actuator 70 acts as a guide actuator. Seventh actuator 70 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of bottom panel 6g. Seventh actuator 70 includes seventh cylinder 71, seventh piston rod 72, and seventh movable portion 73. Seventh cylinder 71 drives seventh piston rod 72 to freely move forward and backward along first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement from bottom panel 6g toward lid part 7, and the backward movement is movement from lid part 7 toward bottom panel 6g. Seventh movable portion 73 connected to seventh piston rod 72 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from base 8c of engagement piece 8. Seventh movable portion 73 is disposed closer to first side panel 6a than third movable portion 33.

[0036] Eighth actuator 80 will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 13, and 18.

[0037] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 13, and 18, assembly device 1 includes eighth actuator 80 having a function of inserting engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9. That is, eighth actuator 80 acts as an insertion actuator. Eighth actuator 80 is disposed on a side of first side panel 6a and on a side of lid part 7. Eighth actuator 80 includes eighth cylinder 81, eighth piston rod 82, and eighth movable portion 83. Eighth cylinder 81 drives eighth piston rod 82 to freely move forward and backward with respect to first side panel 6a. The forward movement is movement toward first side panel 6a, and the backward movement is movement away from first side panel 6a. Eighth movable portion 83 connected to eighth piston rod 82 is arranged to linearly move to contact or separate from engagement piece 8.[1-2. Operation][1-2-1. Pre-preparation operation]

[0038] Fig. 3 illustrates a state where first piston rod 12 is in a retracted position and first movable portion 13 is separated from engagement piece 8. Fig. 4 illustrates a state where first piston rod 12 is at an extended position, and after first movable portion 13 abuts on engagement piece 8, engagement piece 8 is pressed to be separated from first side panel 6a of box part 6. As illustrated in Fig. 14, since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 rotates about fold line 8a as a rotation center by pressing force A of first movable portion 13. Since engagement part 8 is smoothly separated from box part 6, it is possible to suppress unnecessary deformation of engagement part 8 before the bending step. As a result, as shown in Fig. 15 A, engagement piece 8 extends obliquely at a certain inclination angle with respect to first side panel 6a.

[0039] Fig. 5 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 is in the retracted position and second movable portion 23 is separated from engagement piece 8. Fig. 6 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 is at the extended position, and engagement piece 8 is rotated after second movable portion 23 abuts on engagement piece 8. Since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 further rotates about fold line 8a by the pressing force of second movable portion 23. As a result, as shown in Figs. 6 and 15B, engagement piece 8 is inclined at a larger inclination angle with respect to first side panel 6a and extends, for example, substantially orthogonal to first side panel 6a. Then, first piston rod 12 moves to the retracted position, and first movable portion 13 separates from engagement piece 8.[1-2-2. Bending operation of engagement piece]

[0040] Fig. 7 illustrates a state where second piston rod 22 and third piston rod 32 are at the extended positions, second movable portion 23 abuts on base 8c of engagement piece 8 and third movable portion 33 abuts on engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8, and third piston rod 32 further advances. Bent portion 8b extending in a direction (longitudinal orthogonal direction) orthogonal to the longitudinal direction is formed in the middle of engagement piece 8 in the longitudinal direction. As illustrated in Figs. 7 and 15B, pressing force B (force substantially perpendicular to engagement piece 8) of third movable portion 33 is applied to engagement piece 8. Thus, engagement piece 8 is bent by bent portion 8b. Engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 is deformed by second movable portion 23 and has a bent shape with respect to base 8c. Engagement distal end 8d is bent in an L shape with respect to base 8c at an angle of 90 degrees, for example.[1-2-3. Arrangement operation of guide member]

[0041] Fig. 8 illustrates a state where support rod 42 is in the retracted position and guide member 90 is separated from engagement slit 9. Fig. 9 illustrates a state where support rod 42 and support rod 52 are at the extended positions, and guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is positioned in engagement slit 9 and then inserted into engagement slit 9. As illustrated in Fig. 16, guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is inserted into engagement slit 9 by insertion force C of guide member 90. Engagement slit 9 where guide portion 91 is inserted has a gap where engagement piece 8 can be inserted on a side of engagement piece 8.[1-2-4. Bending operation of distal end]

[0042] Fig. 10 illustrates a state where sixth piston rod 62 is at the extended position, and sixth movable portion 63 abuts on engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 and then presses engagement distal end 8d. Engagement piece 8 is bent in an L shape at bent portion 8b, but engagement distal end 8d is rotated about bent portion 8b by the pressing force of sixth movable portion 63. As a result, the angle formed by engagement distal end 8d and base 8c of engagement piece 8 (a bending angle of engagement distal end 8d) is bent to form an acute angle. The bending angle of engagement distal end 8d is, for example, 45 degrees.[1-2-5. Guide operation of distal end by guide member]

[0043] Fig. 11 illustrates a state where seventh piston rod 72 is at a halfway position of forward movement, and seventh movable portion 73 moves while abutting on base 8c of engagement piece 8. Fig. 12 illustrates a state where seventh piston rod 72 is at a position further advanced than the intermediate position in Fig. 11, and engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 is partially inserted into engagement slit 9.

[0044] Due to pressing force D of seventh movable portion 73, engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 moves in a contact state along guide portion 91 of guide member 90 and is guided into engagement slit 9. As a result, as illustrated in Fig. 17, engagement distal end 8d is partially inserted into engagement slit 9. When the guiding operation of engagement distal end 8d with respect to engagement slit 9 is executed, as illustrated in Fig. 12, after guide attachment portion 53 moves to the retracted position, support rod 42 moves to the retracted position. As a result, guide member 90 is located at the retracted position away from packing box 5.[1-2-6. Insertion operation of distal end]

[0045] Fig. 13 illustrates a state where eighth piston rod 82 is at the extended position, and eighth movable portion 83 is pressing engagement piece 8 after abutting on engagement piece 8. Since engagement piece 8 is connected to first side panel 6a through fold line 8a, engagement piece 8 is rotated about fold line 8a by pressing force E of eighth movable portion 83. As a result, as illustrated in Fig. 18, engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 partially inserted into engagement slit 9 is completely inserted into engagement slit 9.[1-2-7. Overall assembly operation]

[0046] A method for assembling packing box 5 using assembly device 1 configured as described above will be generally described with reference to Fig. 19.

[0047] In Fig. 19, in packing box 5 having box part 6 and lid part 7, a lock fixation process for forming lock fixation between box part 6 and lid part 7 is started by inserting engagement piece 8 provided in box part 6 into engagement slit 9 provided in lid part 7 (step S1).

[0048] In step S2, a step of positioning and retaining packing box 5 placed on table 3 of assembly device 1 is performed using retainer 15 of assembly device 1.

[0049] In step S3, a preparation step of performing preparation for bending engagement piece 8 using first actuator 10 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0050] In step S4, a bending step of bending engagement piece 8 at bent portion 8b in the longitudinal direction of engagement piece 8 using second actuator 20 and third actuator 30 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0051] In step S5, an arrangement step of arranging guide member 90 that guides engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9 in engagement slit 9 using fourth actuator 40 and fifth actuator 50 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0052] In step S6, a guidance step of guiding engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 to engagement slit 9 by moving engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 along guide member 90 using sixth actuator 60 and seventh actuator 70 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0053] In step S7, an insertion step of inserting engagement distal end 8d of engagement piece 8 into engagement slit 9 using eighth actuator 80 of assembly device 1 is executed.

[0054] Then, in step S8, the lock fixation process of forming lock fixation between box part 6 and lid part 7 ends.[1-3. Effects]

[0055] As described above, the assembling method of the present exemplary embodiment is the method for assembling packing box 5 including box part 6 and lid part 7. By inserting engagement part 8 (7a) placed on one of box part 6 and lid part 7 into part to be engaged 9 (6j) placed on the other of box part 6 and lid part 7, lock fixation formed between box part 6 and lid part 7 is executed by the actuator. The method for assembling packing box 5 includes an arrangement step, a guidance step, and an insertion step. In the arrangement step, guide member 90 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j) is arranged on part to be engaged 9 (6j). In the guidance step, engagement part 8 (7a) is guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j) by moving engagement part 8 along guide member 90. In the insertion step, engagement part 8 (7a) is inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0056] As a result, since engagement part 8 (7a) is guided to move along guide member 90 into part to be engaged 9 (6j), engagement part 8 (7a) is easily and stably inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j). Therefore, the lock fixation process in packing box 5 can be automated.

[0057] As in the present exemplary embodiment, engagement part 8 may be provided in box part 6, and part to be engaged 9 may be provided in lid part 7.

[0058] As a result, after the first lock fixation where engagement part 7a of lid part 7 is inserted into part to be engaged 6j of box part 6 is formed, the second lock fixation where engagement part 8 of box part 6 is inserted into part to be engaged 9 of lid part 7 can be formed. Therefore, double locking in packing box 5 can be easily realized.

[0059] As in the present exemplary embodiment, a bending step of bending engagement part 8 by bent portion 8b provided in the middle of engagement part 8 in the longitudinal direction may be further included.

[0060] As a result, the shape of engagement part 8 is adjusted. Therefore, the guiding operation of distal end 8d of engagement part 8 with respect to part to be engaged 9 is stabilized.

[0061] As in the present exemplary embodiment, in the arrangement step, guide member 90 may be inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0062] As a result, the arrangement of guide member 90 with respect to part to be engaged 9 (6j) is stabilized. Therefore, engagement part 8 (7a) can be easily and reliably guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0063] As in the present exemplary embodiment, before the bending step, a preparation step of rotating engagement part 8 with fold line 8a formed at the boundary between box part 6 and engagement part 8 as a rotation center may be provided.

[0064] As a result, engagement part 8 is smoothly separated from box part 6. This makes it possible to suppress unnecessary deformation of engagement part 8 before the bending step.

[0065] As in the present exemplary embodiment, guide member 90 may have guide portion 91 that guides engagement part 8 (7a), and support portion 92 that extends from guide portion 91 and is bent to retract to an opposite side of engagement part 8 (7a).

[0066] As a result, a space is formed on a side of engagement part 8 (7a) in support portion 92. This makes it possible to avoid interference of guide member 90 with support portion 92 in the assembly process.

[0067] As in the present exemplary embodiment, packing box 5 may be a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure.

[0068] With such a configuration, a plate of packing box 5 has a hollow structure and hence, the plate of packing box 5 is lightweight and has high strength. Accordingly, weight reduction, high heat insulation property, easy processability, impact resistance and the like of packing box 5 can be realized.

[0069] Assembly device 1 of the present exemplary embodiment is an assembly device of packing box 5 including box part 6 and lid part 7. By inserting engagement part 8 (7a) placed on one of box part 6 and lid part 7 into part to be engaged 9 (6j) placed on the other of box part 6 and lid part 7, lock fixation is formed between box part 6 and lid part 7. Assembly device 1 of packing box 5 includes guide member 90 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j), arrangement actuators 40, 50 that arrange guide member 90 on part to be engaged 9 (6j), guide actuator 70 that guides engagement part 8 (7a) to part to be engaged 9 (6j) by moving engagement part 8 (7a) along guide member 90, and insertion actuator 80 that inserts engagement part 8 (7a) into part to be engaged 9 (6j).

[0070] Thus, in assembly device 1, since engagement part 8 (7a) is guided to move along guide member 90 into part to be engaged 9 (6j), engagement part 8 (7a) is easily and stably inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j). Therefore, the lock fixation process in packing box 5 can be automated.(Other exemplary embodiments)

[0071] As described above, the above exemplary embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technique in the present disclosure is not limited to the above exemplary embodiment, and can also be applied to exemplary embodiments in which change, substitution, addition, omission, and the like are performed. A new exemplary embodiment can also be made by combining the respective constituent elements described in the exemplary embodiments above.

[0072] In the exemplary embodiment described above, as lock fixation of packing box 5, an aspect (second lock fixation) where engagement piece 8 (engagement part) provided in box part 6 is inserted into engagement slit 9 (part to be engaged) provided in lid part 7 is disclosed. However, the lock fixation of packing box 5 may be performed in a mode (first lock fixation) where lid flap 7a (engagement part) provided on lid part 7 is inserted into engagement gap 6j (part to be engaged) provided on box part 6. Since lid flap 7a is usually used in a state of extending in a flat plate shape, in a case where lid flap 7a of lid part 7 is inserted into engagement gap 6j of box part 6, the above-described preparation step and bending step are omitted.

[0073] In the above exemplary embodiment, the corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure is exemplified as packing box 5, but a plate-shaped box having a solid structure may be used.

[0074] In the above exemplary embodiment, an aspect where guide member 90 is inserted into part to be engaged 9 (6j) has been exemplified as the arrangement of guide member 90 with respect to part to be engaged 9 (6j), but an aspect where guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is arranged near part to be engaged 9 (6j) may be adopted. In this case, the guide surface of guide portion 91 of guide member 90 is configured to be positioned flush with the inner surface of lid part 7 or positioned inside the inner surface of lid part 7. With such a configuration, since engagement part 8 (7a) is smoothly guided into part to be engaged 9 (6j), and it is not necessary to consider the thickness of guide portion 91, the opening width of part to be engaged 9 (6j) can be effectively used.

[0075] In the above exemplary embodiment, the lock fixation of packing box 5 for packing an electrical appliance such as a laptop PC has been described, but the present invention is also applicable to the case of packing other products and the like.

[0076] As described above, the exemplary embodiment has been described as an example of the technique in the present disclosure. For that purpose, the accompanying drawings and the detailed description have been provided. Therefore, the constituent elements described in the accompanying drawings and in the detailed description not only include the constituent elements essential for solving the problem but also include, in order to exemplify the above technique, constituent elements that are not essential for solving the problem. Therefore, it should not be immediately recognized that these non-essential constituent elements are essential based on the fact that these non-essential constituent elements are described in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description.

[0077] In addition, since the above-described exemplary embodiments are intended to illustrate the technique in the present disclosure, various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims and equivalents thereof.(Overview of exemplary embodiments)

[0078] (1) A method for assembling a packing box of the present disclosure is the method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part, and the method executing, by an actuator, lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, wherein the method includes an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged, a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged. (2) In the method of (1), the engagement part may be arranged in the box part, and the part to be engaged may be arranged in the lid part. (3) The method of (2) may further include a bending step of bending the engagement part with a bent portion arranged in a middle of the engagement part in a longitudinal direction. (4) In the method of any one of (1) to (3), in the arrangement step, the guide member may be inserted into the part to be engaged. (5) The method of (3) or (4) may further include a preparation step of rotating the engagement part about a fold line formed at a boundary between the box part and the engagement part as a rotation center before the bending step. (6) In the method of any one of (1) to (5), the guide member may include a guide portion that guides the engagement part, and a support portion that extends from the guide portion and is bent to retract to an opposite side of the engagement part. (7) In the method of any one of (1) to (6), the packing box may be a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure. (8) A device for assembling a packing box including a box part and a lid part is the device forming lock fixation between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, the device includes a guide member that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged, an arrangement actuator for arranging the guide member to the part to be engaged, a guide actuator that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member, and an insertion actuator that inserts the engagement part into the part to be engaged. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0079] The present disclosure is applicable to assembly of a packing box for housing various products including electrical appliances in a packaged state.REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0080] 1assembly device 2base frame 3table 5packing box 6box part 6afirst side panel 6bsecond side panel 6cthird side panel 6dfourth side panel 6gbottom panel 6jengagement gap (part to be engaged) 7lid part 7alid flap (engagement part) 7bflap fold line 8engagement piece (engagement part) 8afold line 8bbent portion 8cbase 8dengagement distal end (distal end) 9engagement slit (part to be engaged) 10first actuator 11first cylinder 12first piston rod 13first movable portion 15retainer 20second actuator 21second cylinder 22second piston rod 23second movable unit 30third actuator 31third cylinder 32third piston rod 33third movable unit 40fourth actuator (arrangement actuator) 41motor 42support rod 43stay 50fifth actuator (arrangement actuator) 51motor 52support rod 53guide attachment portion 60sixth actuator 61sixth cylinder 62sixth piston rod 63sixth movable portion 70seventh actuator (guide actuator) 71seventh cylinder 72seventh piston rod 73seventh movable unit 80eighth actuator (insertion actuator) 81eighth cylinder 82eighth piston rod 83eighth movable unit 90guide member 91guide portion 92support portion Apressing force of first movable portion Bpressing force of third movable portion Cinsertion force of guide member Dpressing force of seventh movable portion Epressing force of eighth movable portion

Examples

Embodiment Construction

(Knowledge and the like underlying the present disclosure)

[0009]For example, in various products including electrical products such as a notebook computer (laptop PC), a packing box for housing the products in a packaged state is used. The packing box includes a box part and a lid part covering the box part, and may include lock fixation for locking the lid part in a closed state with respect to the box part. The lock fixation is formed, for example, by inserting a tongue-shaped engagement part provided in the box part into a part to be engaged provided in the lid part.

[0010]In an assembly process of a packing box, lock fixation of inserting an engagement part into a part to be engaged is manually performed by an operator, but automation by a machine is desired. However, since the engagement part extends from the box part through the fold line and has a shape in which the engagement part is bent in an L shape with respect to a base part, the engagement part is in a so-called non-rig...

Claims

1. A method for assembling a packing box having a box part and a lid part, wherein lock fixation formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part is executed by an actuator, the method comprising: an arrangement step of arranging a guide member that guides the engagement part into the part to be engaged on the part to be engaged; a guidance step of guiding the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member; and an insertion step of inserting the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

2. The method according to Claim 1, wherein the engagement part is arranged in the box part, and the part to be engaged is arranged in the lid part.

3. The method according to Claim 2, further comprising a bending step of bending the engagement part with a bent portion arranged in a middle of the engagement part in a longitudinal direction.

4. The method according to Claim 1, wherein in the arrangement step, the guide member is inserted into the part to be engaged.

5. The method according to Claim 3, further comprising a preparation step of rotating the engagement part about a fold line formed at a boundary between the box part and the engagement part as a rotation center before the bending step.

6. The method according to Claim 1, wherein the guide member includes a guide portion that guides the engagement part, and a support portion that extends from the guide portion and is bent to retract to an opposite side of the engagement part.

7. The method according to Claim 1, wherein the packing box is a corrugated cardboard box having a hollow structure.

8. A device for assembling a packing box including a box part and a lid part, wherein lock fixation is formed between the box part and the lid part by inserting an engagement part placed on one of the box part and the lid part into a part to be engaged placed on an other of the box part and the lid part, the device comprising: a guide member that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged; an arrangement actuator for arranging the guide member to the part to be engaged; a guide actuator that guides the engagement part to the part to be engaged by moving the engagement part along the guide member; and an insertion actuator that inserts the engagement part into the part to be engaged.

Images