Feeder

Abstract

To provide a structure for suppressing a device height during bobbin feeding in a feeder that inclines a storage body for storing a bobbin to feed the bobbin.SOLUTION: A feeder 1 comprises a feeding device 2. The feeding device 2 is changed in posture between a preparatory posture and a feeding posture, and feeds a bobbin 91 with the feeding posture. The feeding device 2 includes a first member 11 and a second member 12. The first member 11 supports a storage body at least when the feeding device 2 is changed in posture from the preparatory posture to the feeding posture. The second member 12 is connected to the first member 11 and supports the storage body with the feeding posture. The second member 12 has an extension 12a. The extension 12a extends in a first direction, and is positioned on a side opposite to the first member 11 sandwiching the rotation center of the feeding device 2 in a positional relationship in the fist direction with the preparatory posture.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention mainly relates to a supply device that feeds bobbins into a transport device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a yarn supplying bobbin supplying device that supplies a yarn supplying bobbin housed in a wagon toward an automatic winder. The yarn supplying bobbin supplying device includes a movable frame, a cylinder, and a transport conveyor. The wagon is attached to the movable frame. The cylinder generates power to tilt the wagon attached to the movable frame. As the wagon tilts, the yarn supplying bobbin housed in the wagon is fed onto the transport conveyor. The transport conveyor transports the fed yarn supplying bobbin toward the automatic winder. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-6669 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, the movable frame rotates around the upper end as the center of rotation, so the rotation trajectory of the movable frame and the wagon becomes large. In particular, when the bobbin is inserted, the movable frame is in a high position, so the height of the device becomes large.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main object of the present invention is to provide a structure for reducing the height of a bobbin supplying device that tilts a housing that houses the bobbins to load the bobbins.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention has been described above. Next, the means for solving this problem and the effects thereof will be described.

[0007] According to an aspect of the present invention, a supplying device having the following configuration is provided. That is, the supplying device includes a conveying device and an input device. The conveying device conveys a bobbin wound with a thread. The input device inputs the bobbin from a housing in which the bobbin is housed into the conveying device. The position of the input device is changed between a ready position and an input position, and in the input position, the input device inputs the bobbin from the housing to the conveying device. The input device includes a first member, a second member, a rotating device, and a control device. The first member supports the housing when the position of the input device is changed at least from the ready position to the input position. The second member is connected to the first member and supports the housing in the input position. The rotation device rotates the first member and the second member, thereby changing the position of the input device between the ready position and the input position. The control device controls the rotating device. The second member is provided so as to extend in a first direction, which is a direction away from the first member, so as to intersect with the first member. The second member has an extension portion that extends in the first direction and is located on the opposite side of the first member across the center of rotation of the insertion device in a positional relationship in the first direction in the preparation position, and the extension portion approaches the conveying device when the position of the insertion device is changed from the preparation position to the insertion position.

[0008] As a result, the center of rotation is located at the middle of the feeding device, not at the end of the device, and the height of the center of rotation is reduced, so that the height of the device in the feeding position can be reduced.

[0009] The supply device is preferably configured as follows. That is, a direction perpendicular to the first direction when viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation center is defined as a second direction. The feeding device has pins arranged in an arc shape in a range including the opposite side of the rotation center to the first member in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture. The rotation device rotates a first transmission member that meshes with the pin to rotate the feeding device, thereby changing the posture of the feeding device.

[0010] This allows for greater freedom in the positions of the first transmission member and the member that rotates it, compared to a configuration in which a gear and a drive device are disposed at the center of rotation.

[0011] The supply device is preferably configured as follows. That is, the supply device includes a descent prevention device provided at a location different from the rotation device. The control device controls the descent prevention device. The descent prevention device includes a second transmission member, a stop mechanism, and a detection unit. The second transmission member meshes with the pin. The stop mechanism is capable of stopping the rotation of the second transmission member during descent when the attitude of the input device is changed from the input attitude to the preparation attitude. The detection unit detects abnormal rotation of the input device during the descent. When the detection unit detects the abnormal rotation of the input device during the descent, the control device operates the stop mechanism to stop the rotation of the second transmission member.

[0012] This allows the rotation of the insertion device to be stopped if an abnormality occurs when the insertion device is lowered.

[0013] The supply device is preferably configured as follows. That is, the stop mechanism includes a gear, a gear stop member, and an actuator. The gear rotates integrally with the second transmission member. The gear stop member slides against the gear during the upward movement when the attitude of the input device is changed from the preparation attitude to the input attitude, thereby allowing the rotation of the gear, and interferes with the gear during the downward movement, thereby preventing the rotation of the gear. The actuator moves the gear stop member closer to or away from the gear. When the detection unit does not detect abnormal rotation of the input device during the downward movement, the control device controls the actuator to move the gear stop member away from the gear to allow the rotation of the gear. When the detection unit detects abnormal rotation of the input device during the downward movement, the control device controls the actuator to move the gear stop member closer to the gear to prevent the rotation of the gear.

[0014] This makes it possible to accurately stop the descent of the inserting device due to abnormal rotation while allowing the inserting device to rise.

[0015] The supply device is preferably configured as follows: That is, the insertion device has a detectable part provided in an arc shape in a range including the opposite side of the first member across the rotation center in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture, and the control device determines the presence or absence of abnormal rotation of the insertion device based on the number of times the detectable part is detected per unit time by the detector.

[0016] This makes it possible to detect abnormal rotation of the insertion device with a simple configuration.

[0017] The supply device is preferably configured as follows. That is, the rotation device includes a drive device and a reducer. The drive device generates a drive force for rotationally driving the first member and the second member. The reducer has an input section to which the drive force is input by the drive device, and an output section which reduces the speed of the drive force and outputs it. The first member and the second member are rotationally driven by the drive force output from the output section of the reducer. The reducer has a self-locking function that prevents the input section from being driven by a force transmitted to the output section, thereby preventing the output section from being driven.

[0018] The self-locking function prevents the feeding device from rotating due to its own weight.

[0019] In the above-mentioned supply device, it is preferable that the reducer has a worm gear, and the self-locking function is realized by the worm gear.

[0020] This makes it possible to suppress rotation of the input device due to its own weight using only a mechanical configuration.

[0021] The supply device is preferably configured as follows. That is, the supply device includes a stopper member that stops the bobbin flowing toward the transport device. The loading postures include a first loading posture and a second loading posture. In the first loading posture, the tip of the extension portion is positioned lower than in the second loading posture. In the first loading posture, the stopper member is positioned on an extension line of a downstream end of a contact surface through which the bobbin loaded into the transport device flows. In the second loading posture, the extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface intersects with an upper end of the stopper member or is located above the stopper member. Under the control of the control device, the posture of the loading device is changed in the order of the first loading posture and the second loading posture.

[0022] In the first loading position, the bobbin flows over the contact surface and is blocked by the stopper member. Thereafter, the loading device changes its position to the second loading position, so that the blocked bobbin can be loaded into the transport device.

[0023] The supply device is preferably configured as follows: That is, there is an auxiliary position for moving the bobbin toward the bottom of the container, and the position of the loading device is changed to the loading position, the auxiliary position, and the loading position in this order by the control of the control device.

[0024] By changing the orientation of the feeding device from the feeding orientation to the auxiliary orientation, the bobbin can be moved in the opposite direction to the transport device. Therefore, the next time the orientation of the feeding device is changed to the feeding orientation, the bobbin gains momentum, so that it can overcome any step or the like in the container.

[0025] The supply device is preferably configured as follows: the first member includes a solid base member and a support member. The support member is attached to the base member, is hollow, and contacts the bottom of the container to support the container.

[0026] This reduces the size and weight of each component compared to when the first component is made of a single member. Furthermore, since the support member is hollow, the weight of the support member is reduced. As a result, handling and assembly of the components is facilitated.

[0027] The supply device is preferably configured as follows: the second member has a contact surface that contacts a side surface of the container and through which the bobbins fed into the transport device flow, and a guide protrusion is formed on the contact surface to guide the bobbins moving along the contact surface toward the bottom of the container toward the inside of the container.

[0028] This can prevent the bobbin from getting between the contact surface and the housing. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of a first member. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing possible rotation directions of the descent prevention device in the separated position and the approach position. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart of a process for supplying a bobbin. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a side view showing the process of setting the container in the insertion device. [Figure 9] 11 is a side view showing a process in which the orientation of the feeding device is repeatedly changed between a first feeding orientation and a second feeding orientation. FIG. [Figure 10] 11 is a side view showing a process in which the orientation of the insertion device is changed from the auxiliary orientation to the second orientation. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] First, an overview of the supplying device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The supplying device 1 is a device that supplies a bobbin 91 having a thread wound around a core tube. The bobbin supplied by the supplying device 1 is supplied to a thread winding machine such as an automatic winder. The thread winding machine winds the thread wound around the bobbin to form a package. As shown in Fig. 1, the supplying device 1 includes an input device 2, a control device 3, and a conveying device 4.

[0032] A container 90 (FIG. 8) described below is set in the insertion device 2. The container 90 has a bottom and a number of side surfaces standing upright from the bottom, forming a storage space therein. A bobbin 91 is stored in the storage space of the container 90. The insertion device 2 is rotatable. The position of the insertion device 2 is changed at least between a preparation position and an insertion position. When the position of the insertion device 2 is changed from the preparation position to the insertion position, the bobbin 91 moves by its own weight, and the bobbin 91 is inserted into the conveying device 4.

[0033] The control device 3 includes a calculation device such as a CPU, a RAM, and a storage. The storage is an HDD, an SSD, a flash memory, or the like. The storage stores a program related to the supply device 1 and data such as conditions required for executing the program. The calculation device reads the program stored in the storage into the RAM and executes it. In this way, the control device 3 performs various controls related to the supply device 1.

[0034] The transport device 4 transports the bobbin 91 inserted by the insertion device 2 toward the yarn winding machine. The transport device 4 transports the bobbin 91 using, for example, a slope, a conveyor, a pressing member, or the like.

[0035] Next, the feeding device 2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the feeding device 2 includes a first member 11, a second member 12, and a rotation device 13. In the following description, the direction of the rotation axis of the feeding device 2 will be simply referred to as the rotation axis direction. The rotation center of the feeding device 2 will be simply referred to as the rotation center.

[0036] The first member 11 supports the container 90 at least when the attitude of the feeding device 2 is changed from the preparation attitude to the feeding attitude. That is, the first member 11 supports the container 90 at least temporarily until the attitude of the feeding device 2 is changed from the preparation attitude to the feeding attitude. The first member 11 may support the container 90 even in the preparation attitude. The first member 11 is a rod-shaped member extending horizontally to the installation surface in the vicinity of the installation surface of the supply device 1. The first members 11 are arranged in the direction of the rotation axis. However, the first members 11 can be appropriately changed to match the shape of the bottom of the container 90. For example, the first member 11 may be a flat plate or a single rod-shaped member.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the first member 11 of the present embodiment includes a first frame 11a, a base member 11b, and a support member 11c.

[0038] The first frame 11a is connected to the second member 12. Specifically, the first frame 11a is provided so as to connect two second members 12 arranged side by side in the rotation axis direction. The support member 11c contacts the bottom of the container 90 and supports the container 90 when the container 90 is in at least a temporary position until the position of the feeding device 2 is changed from the preparation position to the feeding position.

[0039] The base member 11b connects the first frame 11a and the support member 11c. Specifically, the base member 11b includes an L-shaped portion, and is attached to the first frame 11a at a portion corresponding to one side of the L shape. Specifically, the first frame 11a and the base member 11b each have a mounting hole, and the base member 11b can be attached to the first frame 11a by aligning the mounting holes and fastening a fastener such as a bolt. In addition, the support member 11c is attached to a portion of the base member 11b that corresponds to the other side of the L shape. Specifically, the base member 11b and the support member 11c each have a mounting hole, and the support member 11c can be attached to the base member 11b by aligning the mounting holes and fastening a fastener such as a bolt.

[0040] In this way, since each member constituting the first member 11 is attached using a fastener, the base member 11b and the support member 11c are detachable. This makes it possible to replace the support member 11c according to the shape of the target container 90, for example. Also, a set of mounting holes is formed in the portion of the base member 11b that is attached to the first frame 11a. Meanwhile, multiple sets of mounting holes are formed in the first frame 11a. This makes it possible to change the mounting position of the base member 11b relative to the first frame 11a.

[0041] In this embodiment, since the first member 11 has a divided structure, the size and weight of each component are smaller than when the first member 11 is composed of a single member. This makes it easier to handle and assemble the components. In particular, the support member 11c is formed by bending a plate material. Therefore, the support member 11c is hollow, and therefore lighter than a solid member. From this perspective, the components that make up the first member 11 are easy to handle.

[0042] The configuration of the first member 11 is an example and can be changed. For example, the first member 11 may be configured with two parts (i.e., the base member 11b and the support member 11c) instead of three parts. The shape of each part is also an example, and for example, the support member 11c may be solid. Instead of the configuration in which one support member 11c is attached to one base member 11b, a configuration in which one plate-shaped support member 11c is attached to two base members 11b may be used.

[0043] The second member 12 is directly or indirectly connected to the first member 11 (first frame 11a). The second members 12 are arranged in the rotation axis direction. The second member 12 is provided to extend in a first direction, which is a direction away from the first member 11, so as to cross the first member 11. In this embodiment, the first member 11 extends in the horizontal direction, and the second member 12 extends in the vertical direction, and the directions in which the first member 11 and the second member 12 extend are orthogonal to each other. Note that this positional relationship is an example, and the first member 11 may extend in a direction different from the horizontal direction, and the second member 12 may extend in a direction different from the vertical direction. In addition, the directions in which the first member 11 and the second member 12 extend may cross each other, and the directions in which the first member 11 and the second member 12 extend may not be orthogonal to each other. For example, when a certain member is a rod-shaped member, the extending direction is the same as the longitudinal direction of the rod-shaped member. Even if a certain component is not a rod-shaped component, as long as the longitudinal direction of the component can be imagined, the longitudinal direction corresponds to the extending direction.

[0044] The second member 12 is formed with an extension portion 12a. The extension portion 12a is a portion of the second member 12 that extends in the first direction, and is a portion that is located on the opposite side of the first member 11 with respect to the rotation center in the positional relationship in the first direction in the preparation posture. Here, what is important about the positional relationship between the first member 11 and the second member 12 is the positional relationship with the rotation center, so it is preferable to grasp the positional relationship in a view seen in the rotation axis direction (for example, the side view of FIG. 2). In FIG. 2, the position of the first member 11 in the first direction is below the rotation center, and more specifically, is approximately the same position as the installation surface. On the other hand, the position of the extension portion 12a in the first direction is above the rotation center. Since the extension portion 12a and the first member 11 rotate integrally, when one rises, the other falls.

[0045] If the extension portion 12a does not exist, the first member 11 and the second member 12 rotate around the upper end of the second member 12 as the center of rotation. In that case, the rotation trajectory is likely to become large. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the extension portion 12a exists, the first member 11 and the second member 12 rotate around a position below the upper end, rather than around the upper end, of the first member 11 and the second member 12. As a result, the size of the rotation trajectory can be reduced, and therefore the height of the device in the insertion position can be reduced.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second member 12 further includes a contact surface 22 and a guide side plate 24.

[0047] The contact surface 22 is a plate-like member arranged to connect a pair of second members 12. The side surface of the container 90 comes into contact with the contact surface 22. Therefore, in a state in which the bobbin 91 is being inserted, the second member 12 supports the container 90 via the contact surface 22. In the insertion posture, the downstream end of the contact surface 22 (or the tip of the extension portion 12a) is located below a horizontal plane passing through the center of rotation. In addition, by changing the posture of the insertion device 2 from the preparation posture to the insertion posture, the extension portion 12a approaches the conveying device 4, and the bobbin 91 inserted from the container 90 moves toward the conveying device 4 through the contact surface 22. Note that the second member 12 may be changed to a flat plate-like member, and the second member 12 and the contact surface 22 may be integrated.

[0048] The contact surface 22 is provided with a guide protrusion 25 and a container sensor 27. The guide protrusion 25 and the container sensor 27 will be described in detail later.

[0049] The guide side plates 24 are plate-like members arranged in a pair on the sides (both ends in the rotation axis direction) of the contact surface 22. The guide side plates 24 guide the bobbins 91 so that they do not fall off the sides of the feeding device 2. The guide side plates 24 of this embodiment include a tapered portion, which guides the bobbins 91 so that they move closer to the center in the width direction as they approach the downstream. Note that the tapered portion is not an essential shape and can be omitted. The amount of bobbins 91 fed from the feeding device 2 to the conveying device 4 can be adjusted by the tapered portion.

[0050] The guide side plates 24 are provided with a retaining rod 26. The retaining rod 26 is a rod-shaped member arranged to connect the pair of guide side plates 24. The retaining rod 26 holds the housing body 90 so that it does not fall when the housing body 90 is tilted. The retaining rod 26 may have a shape other than a rod shape as long as it is capable of holding the housing body 90.

[0051] The rotation device 13 rotates and drives the first member 11 and the second member 12. This changes the posture of the feeding device 2. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 4, the rotation device 13 includes a rotating shaft 31, a rotating plate 32, a motor (driving device) 35, a reducer 36, and a first sprocket (first transmission member) 38.

[0052] The rotating shaft 31 is a shaft-shaped member that rotatably supports the first member 11, the second member 12, and a part of the rotating device 13 (rotating plate 32). The central axis direction of the rotating shaft 31 corresponds to the rotation center. The rotating shaft 31 is not an essential component. For example, the rotating shaft 31 can be omitted if there is a configuration in which a guide plate provided on the rotating member rotates along a cam follower provided on the supporting member. Even if the rotating shaft 31 is omitted, the feeding device 2 rotates, so a rotation center exists.

[0053] The rotating plate 32 is a disk-shaped (more specifically, fan-shaped) member arranged in a pair in the rotation axis direction. The rotating plate 32 is fixed to the first member 11 or the second member 12, and can rotate integrally with the first member 11 and the second member 12. As shown in FIG. 4, the rotating plate 32 is provided with a plurality of pins 33 and an arc plate 34. The plurality of pins 33 are arranged in an arc shape on the surface of the rotating plate 32. In detail, as shown in FIG. 2, a direction perpendicular to the first direction when viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation center is defined as a second direction. In the positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture, the pins 33 are arranged in a range including the opposite side of the first member 11 across the rotation center. The pins 33 may also be arranged on the same side as the first member 11 across the rotation center. The arc plate 34 is arranged at a position overlapping the pins 33 when viewed in the rotation axis direction. The central axis direction of the rotary plate 32, the central axis direction of the arc formed by the multiple pins 33, and the central axis direction of the arc plate 34 are coincident. The function of the arc plate 34 will be described later.

[0054] The motor 35 generates a driving force to rotate the insertion device 2 using the supplied driving current. The motor 35 is capable of switching the direction of rotation. The direction of rotation of the insertion device 2 can be switched by switching the direction of rotation of the motor 35. The motor 35 is a motor with a brake, and has a structure in which a clutch operates and the rotation of the rotor is not transmitted to the output shaft when the driving current is not supplied. This allows the rotation of the insertion device 2 to be stopped, for example, when the driving current is suddenly not supplied due to a power outage or wiring abnormality when the insertion device 2 is in the insertion posture. The motor 35 is arranged in a range including the opposite side of the first member 11 across the center of rotation in the positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture, similar to the above-mentioned pin 33. Here, in the second direction, the first member 11 side of the center of rotation overlaps with the movement trajectory of the container 90, etc., so that the space in which the parts can be arranged is limited. On the other hand, the opposite side of the first member 11 from the center of rotation in the second direction has a relatively large space because the frame (structural member) of the feeding device 2 is provided there and the worker does not perform any work there. In this embodiment, the motor 35 and the pin 33 are provided in this space, so that each part can be arranged efficiently. In addition, when the feeding device 2 is in the feeding position, it is necessary to avoid interference between the guide side plate 24, the motor 35, and other devices (for example, the descent prevention device 40 described later). In this respect, in this embodiment, the rotation device 13 is disposed in the above-mentioned position, more specifically, in a position lower than the center of rotation in the preparation position, so that even when the feeding device 2 is changed to the feeding position, the guide side plate 24 and the like are unlikely to interfere with the motor 35. As a result, the feeding device 2 can be made compact. In addition, the position of the motor 35 in this embodiment is disposed near the first sprocket 38, which is the driving target, as described later. Therefore, the number of gears or belts that transmit the power of the first sprocket 38 can be reduced, so that the structure can be simplified.

[0055] The reducer 36 reduces the speed of the driving force generated by the motor 35. In detail, the reducer 36 has a worm gear 37. The worm gear 37 includes a worm 37a and a worm wheel 37b. The worm 37a is fixed to an input portion 39a. The input portion 39a is fixed to an output shaft of the motor 35 directly or via another member. A driving force is input to the input portion 39a by the motor 35. The worm 37a and the worm wheel 37b mesh with each other. An output portion 39b is fixed to the worm wheel 37b. The output portion 39b outputs the reduced driving force. A first sprocket 38 is fixed to the output portion 39b. As a result, the driving force transmitted from the motor 35 to the worm gear 37 can be reduced in speed and transmitted to the first sprocket 38.

[0056] The first sprocket 38 is a disk-shaped member, and has a plurality of recesses arranged in the circumferential direction. The recesses of the first sprocket 38 are shaped to mesh with the pin 33. The first sprocket 38 is disposed at a position where the recesses mesh with the pin 33. With this configuration, the first sprocket 38 is rotated by the driving force generated by the motor 35, and the rotating plate 32 (and thus the first member 11 and the second member 12) can be rotated via the pin 33. Note that instead of the configuration in which the driving force of the motor 35 is transmitted using the first sprocket 38 and the pin 33, the driving force of the motor 35 may be transmitted to a shaft that functions as a rotating shaft by a gear or the like, and the shaft may be rotated to rotate the feeding device 2.

[0057] In addition, since the reducer 36 is configured to reduce speed using the worm gear 37, the reducer 36 has a self-locking function. The self-locking function of this embodiment is a function that prevents the input part 39a from being driven by the force transmitted to the output part 39b, thereby preventing the output part 39b from being driven. In the worm gear 37, even if a force is applied in a direction to rotate the worm wheel 37b, the force is not easily transmitted in a direction to rotate the worm 37a, so the worm 37a does not rotate. In other words, the input part 39a and the output part 39b are configured to rotate integrally, and the worm gear 37 cannot be rotated even if a force is applied from the output part 39b side. Therefore, even if a force is applied to the output part 39b, the output part 39b is not driven, and as a result, the attitude of the input device 2 is not changed. The self-locking function of this embodiment can be realized by the mechanism alone without requiring a separate device. By having the self-locking function, it is possible to prevent the operator from manually rotating the input device 2. Furthermore, even if the motor 35 abnormally stops when the inserting device 2 is in the inserting posture, the inserting device 2 can be prevented from returning to its original position due to its own weight. Note that a configuration having a self-locking function other than the worm gear 37 may be used. For example, a known reducer with a self-locking function that uses a planetary gear may be used.

[0058] As described above, in this embodiment, the driving force generated by the motor 35 lifts the container 90 and inserts the bobbin 91 into the conveying device 4. In contrast, in Patent Document 1, the bobbin is inserted by the driving force generated by a cylinder. When a cylinder is used, the height of the conveying section and the bobbin receiving section becomes high due to the influence of the member for driving the cylinder or the height of the cylinder itself. As a result, the container needs to be lifted high, and the height of the device becomes high. In contrast, the motor 35 of this embodiment does not have this kind of restriction, so the height of the device can be reduced compared to Patent Document 1.

[0059] Next, the descent prevention device 40 provided in the supply device 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 5 and 6. The descent of the input device 2 means that the position of the input device 2 is changed from the input position to the preparation position. When the input device 2 is lowered, for example, the first member 11 and the container 90 are lowered toward the installation surface. On the other hand, the ascent of the input device 2 means that the position of the input device 2 is changed from the preparation position to the input position. When the input device 2 is raised, for example, the first member 11 and the container 90 are raised. Here, the position of the center of gravity of the rotating part (including the container 90) of the input device 2 is on the first member 11 side rather than the center of rotation in the second direction. Therefore, for example, when the motor 35 is stopped due to a power outage or the like, if there is no function to prevent the input device 2 from descending, the input device 2 descends. The descent prevention device 40 is a device that prevents such a descent of the input device 2. Note that, since it is the position of the center of gravity described above, it is not necessary to provide a mechanism to prevent the input device 2 from ascending during a power outage, for example. As shown in FIG. 5, the fall prevention device 40 includes a second sprocket (second transmission member) 41, a detection unit 42, and a stop mechanism 43.

[0060] The second sprocket 41 is a disk-shaped member, and a plurality of recesses are formed and arranged in the circumferential direction. The recesses of the second sprocket 41 are shaped to mesh with the pins 33, and the second sprocket 41 is disposed at a position where the recesses mesh with the pins 33. The above-mentioned first sprocket 38 is a driving sprocket that rotates the rotating plate 32, while the second sprocket 41 is a driven sprocket that rotates in response to the rotation of the rotating plate 32. That is, in this embodiment, the common pin 33 meshes with both the first sprocket 38 and the second sprocket 41. However, the pin that meshes with the first sprocket 38 and the pin that meshes with the second sprocket 41 may be different. In either case, these pins rotate integrally with the rotating plate 32.

[0061] The detection unit 42 detects abnormal rotation of the insertion device 2. More specifically, the detection unit 42 is an optical sensor that irradiates light and detects the reflected light. The detection unit 42 irradiates light toward the rotating plate 32 (more specifically, the arc plate 34). Here, the arc plate 34 has detection holes (detection portions) 34a formed at a predetermined interval. The light received by the detection unit 42 changes between when the light irradiated by the detection unit 42 hits the detection holes 34a and when the light irradiated by the detection unit 42 hits the surface of the arc plate 34. Therefore, the detection unit 42 can detect the passage of the detection holes 34a, and more specifically, the number of times the detection holes 34a pass per unit time. When the number of times the detection holes 34a pass per unit time is higher than normal, it means that the arc plate 34 is rotating faster than normal (in other words, rotating abnormally). The detection result of the detection unit 42 is output to the control device 3. The control device 3 determines whether the insertion device 2 is rotating abnormally based on whether the number of times the detection hole 34a passes per unit time exceeds a threshold value.

[0062] The detection unit 42 of this embodiment can be modified as follows. For example, the detection unit 42 is not limited to a reflective optical sensor, but may be a transmissive optical sensor. In a transmissive optical sensor, for example, a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element are provided to sandwich the arc plate 34, and the light-receiving element detects light every time the detection hole 34a passes between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element. The detection unit 42 is not limited to an optical sensor, but may be a contact sensor or a magnet sensor.

[0063] The detection hole 34a of this embodiment can be modified as follows. For example, the detection hole 34a may be formed in the rotating plate 32 instead of the arc plate 34. Also, a sheet that changes the reflectance may be attached or a notch may be formed in place of the detection hole 34a. Alternatively, instead of treating the portion in which the hole or notch is formed as the detection part, the surface part of the arc plate 34 in which the hole or notch is not formed may be treated as the detection part.

[0064] The stop mechanism 43 includes a gear 43a, a gear stopper member 43b, and an actuator 43c.

[0065] The gear 43a is fixed to the second sprocket 41 via a shaft, and the gear 43a and the second sprocket 41 rotate integrally. The teeth of the gear 43a are asymmetric in the circumferential direction, and more specifically, have different inclination angles.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 6, the gear stop member 43b can be switched between a separated position and an approaching position. When the gear stop member 43b is in the separated position, the gear 43a can rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise. When the gear stop member 43b is in the approaching position, the gear 43a can rotate clockwise while sliding the teeth and the gear stop member 43b. However, the gear stop member 43b (more specifically, a protrusion formed on the gear stop member 43b) is caught on the teeth and becomes difficult to slide, so the gear 43a cannot rotate counterclockwise. In this embodiment, the clockwise rotation of the gear 43a corresponds to the ascent of the input device 2, and the counterclockwise rotation of the gear 43a corresponds to the descent of the input device 2. In other words, by setting the gear stop member 43b to the approaching position, the descent of the input device 2 can be suppressed.

[0067] The actuator 43c generates power for switching the gear stop member 43b between the separated position and the approach position. In this embodiment, the actuator 43c is an electric cylinder and is controlled by the control device 3. Specifically, the control device 3 can align the gear stop member 43b to the separated position by supplying power to the actuator 43c. Also, the control device 3 can align the gear stop member 43b to the approach position by not supplying power to the actuator 43c (stopping the supply of power). In this specification, not only supplying power to the actuator 43c but also not supplying power to the actuator 43c corresponds to the control of the actuator 43c. The actuator 43c is not limited to an electric cylinder. The actuator 43c may be, for example, an electromagnetic solenoid or a linear motor.

[0068] The control device 3 adjusts the gear stop member 43b to the separated position only when it determines that the input device 2 is in a state to be lowered. This allows the input device 2 to be lowered. On the other hand, in other cases, the gear stop member 43b is adjusted to the approach position. This allows the input device 2 to be raised but prevents the input device 2 from being lowered.

[0069] When power is not supplied to the actuator 43c, the initial position of the actuator 43c is adjusted so that the gear stop member 43b is in the approach position. As a result, when the input device 2 is not operating, or when there is a power outage or wiring trouble, the gear stop member 43b prevents the gear 43a from rotating counterclockwise, so that the input device 2 can be prevented from suddenly descending.

[0070] As described above, the supply device 1 of this embodiment has a braking function by the motor 35, a self-locking function by the reducer 36, and a function to prevent sudden descent by the descent prevention device 40. Therefore, it is possible to almost reliably prevent the input device 2 from descending at a timing not intended by the operator. Note that one or two of these three functions may be omitted.

[0071] The stop mechanism 43 of the present embodiment is an example, and may be configured to switch between rotation and non-rotation of the gear 43a by operating the actuator 43c, for example. In this case, it is necessary to operate the actuator 43c to separate the gear stop member 43b from the gear 43a even when the input device 2 is raised. Instead, sliding between the gear 43a and the gear stop member 43b does not occur. Also, the actuator 43c may be operated to switch between the presence or absence of a brake on the gear 43a or the second sprocket 41.

[0072] 7 to 10, a process for supplying the bobbins 91 stored in the container 90, particularly a process in which the loading device 2 loads the bobbins into the transport device 4, will be described. The process shown in FIG.

[0073] First, as shown in Fig. 8, the container 90 is set in the input device 2. For example, if the container 90 has a box-shaped body and wheels, the container 90 is pushed and moved toward the second member 12, thereby inserting the first member 11 into the bottom surface of the box-shaped body. If the container 90 does not have wheels, the container 90 is transported by an operator or a robot or the like and placed on the first member 11. The container 90 and the first member 11 may or may not be fixed to each other.

[0074] The above-mentioned container sensor 27 is a contact sensor, and by setting the container 90 in the insertion device 2, a signal output from the container sensor 27 to the control device 3 changes. This allows the control device 3 to determine whether the container 90 has been set. Note that the container sensor 27 is not limited to a contact sensor and may be an optical sensor. Also, the container sensor 27 may be disposed at another location (for example, the first member 11) instead of the contact surface 22. After setting the container 90 in the insertion device 2, the operator issues an instruction to insert the bobbin 91.

[0075] First, the control device 3 determines whether or not the ascent start condition is satisfied (S101). The ascent start condition is a condition for starting the operation of rotating (ascending) the feeding device 2 from the preparation posture to the feeding posture. The ascent start condition is, for example, that the container sensor 27 detects the container 90, and that the conveying device 4 or a device downstream thereof is in operation. Note that the ascent start condition is merely an example, and another condition may be added, any of the above conditions may be omitted, or the ascent start condition itself may be omitted.

[0076] When it is determined that the ascent start condition is satisfied, the control device 3 drives the motor 35 by a predetermined amount to change the posture of the feeding device 2 to the standby posture (S102). The standby posture is one type of feeding posture, and is a posture set to prevent a large number of bobbins 91 from being fed at once. The control device 3 makes the feeding device 2 wait temporarily in the standby posture.

[0077] Next, the control device 3 judges whether or not the standby release condition is satisfied (S103). The standby release condition is a condition for starting an operation of releasing the insertion device 2 from the standby posture and further raising it. The standby release condition is, for example, that a predetermined time has elapsed and that the number of bobbins 91 processed by the transport device 4 is zero or a threshold value or less. The number of bobbins 91 processed by the transport device 4 is judged by the control device 3 based on, for example, the detection result of a sensor 4a (FIG. 8) provided on the transport surface 4b of the transport device 4. Note that the standby start condition is an example, and another condition may be added, or any of the above conditions may be omitted.

[0078] When it is determined that the standby release condition is satisfied, the control device 3 rotates the motor 35 to change the posture of the insertion device 2 to the second insertion posture (S104, upper diagram of FIG. 9). The second insertion posture is one type of insertion posture. In the second insertion posture, the tip of the extension part 12a is positioned lower than in the standby posture. The second insertion posture is a posture for inserting the bobbin 91 housed in the container 90 toward the conveying device 4. Therefore, in the second insertion posture, the surface for conveying the bobbin 91 (specifically, the contact surface 22, one surface of the container 90) is inclined so as to approach the lower side as it approaches the conveying device 4. Also, in the second insertion posture, the tip of the contact surface 22 is connected to the conveying surface 4b. As a result, in the second insertion posture, the bobbin 91 can be inserted onto the conveying surface 4b of the conveying device 4 via the contact surface 22.

[0079] In the series of processes, the posture of the inserting device 2 is changed to the second inserting posture multiple times. As a configuration for easily and accurately changing the posture of the inserting device 2 to the second inserting posture, the inserting device 2 is equipped with a second proximity sensor 52 and a second protruding piece 62. The second proximity sensor 52 is provided on the fixed side (the side that does not rotate even when the inserting device 2 rotates). The second protruding piece 62 is provided on the rotating side (the side that rotates integrally with the inserting device 2). When the inserting device 2 is in the second posture, the second proximity sensor 52 detects the proximity of the second protruding piece 62 and outputs the output result to the control device 3. Note that a contact sensor, an optical sensor, or the like may be used instead of the proximity sensor.

[0080] Furthermore, instead of the method of using the second proximity sensor 52 and the second protruding piece 62, the rotation angle of the insertion device 2 may be determined based on the detection result of the detection hole 34a by the detection unit 42. Alternatively, if the motor 35 is configured to be able to specify the amount of rotation (e.g., a stepping motor), the rotation angle of the insertion device 2 may be determined based on a command sent to the motor 35.

[0081] Next, the control device 3 judges whether the standby release condition is satisfied (S105). The standby release condition used in this process may be the same as or different from that in step S103. When it is judged that the standby release condition is satisfied, the control device 3 rotates the motor 35 to change the posture of the feeding device 2 to the first feeding posture (S106, lower diagram in FIG. 9). The first feeding posture is one of the feeding postures. The tip of the extension part 12a in the first feeding posture is located lower than the tip of the extension part 12a in the second feeding posture. Therefore, the extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface 22 intersects with the stopper member 4c located below the conveying surface 4b. The stopper member 4c is a member that stops the bobbin 91 flowing on the contact surface 22 toward the conveying device 4 (more specifically, a surface that stops the bobbin 91). The stopper member 4c in this embodiment is a wall-shaped member provided in the upstream area of ​​the conveying device 4. When the input device 2 is in the first input position, some of the bobbins 91 are stopped by the stopper member 4c and are not input onto the conveying surface 4b. In addition, the bobbins 91 that are higher than the stopper member 4c may be input onto the conveying surface 4b. In addition, in the above-mentioned second input position, the extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface 22 is above the stopper member 4c and intersects with the conveying surface 4b. In addition, in the second input position, the extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface 22 may intersect with the upper end of the stopper member 4c. This is because even if there is a slight step, it has little effect on the input of the bobbins 91. In addition, the stopper member 4c may be provided on the frame member of the supply device 1. In other words, the stopper member 4c is configured not to rotate even if the position of the input device 2 is changed, and is a member that stops the bobbins 91 only when the input device 2 is changed to the first input position.

[0082] As a configuration for easily and accurately changing the posture of the inserting device 2 to the first inserting posture, the inserting device 2 includes a first proximity sensor 51 and a first protruding piece 61. The configurations of the first proximity sensor 51 and the first protruding piece 61 are the same as those of the second proximity sensor 52 and the second protruding piece 62, except that the objects to be aligned are different.

[0083] In addition, the contact surface 22 is steeper inclined in the first insertion posture than in the second insertion posture. Therefore, by changing the posture of the insertion device 2 from the second insertion posture to the first insertion posture, the bobbins 91 that do not flow in the second insertion posture can flow downstream. In addition, by changing the posture of the insertion device 2 from the first insertion posture to the second insertion posture, the bobbins 91 stopped by the stopper member 4c can be inserted onto the conveying surface 4b of the conveying device 4. In detail, the control device 3 performs the following process. That is, the control device 3 determines whether the number of repetitions exceeds a predetermined number (S107), and if not, determines whether the standby release condition is satisfied (S108). If the control device 3 determines that the standby release condition is satisfied, it controls the motor 35. As a result, the posture of the insertion device 2 is changed again to the second insertion posture (S104).

[0084] When the control device 3 determines that the number of repetitions exceeds a predetermined number, it controls the motor 35. As a result, the posture of the insertion device 2 is changed to the auxiliary posture (S109, upper diagram of FIG. 10), and then the posture of the insertion device 2 is changed to the second insertion posture (S110, lower diagram of FIG. 10). These processes are processes for inserting the bobbin 91 that could not be inserted by simply switching between the first insertion posture and the second insertion posture alternately. Even if the bobbin 91 is alternately switched between the first insertion posture and the second insertion posture, it may not be possible to remove the bobbin 91 from the housing body 90 if it is caught on a protrusion or the like on the inner wall of the housing body 90. In order to remove the bobbin 91 in this state from the housing body 90, it is necessary to move the bobbin 91 with momentum. Here, the auxiliary posture is a posture for moving the bobbin 91 toward the bottom of the housing body 90. Therefore, in the auxiliary posture, the surface that transports the bobbin 91 (specifically, the contact surface 22, one surface of the housing body 90) is inclined so as to approach the upward direction as it approaches the transport device 4. In other words, the surface that transports the bobbin is inclined in the opposite direction to the loading posture. As described above, in the loading posture, the downstream end of the contact surface 22 (or the tip of the extension portion 12a) is located below the horizontal plane passing through the center of rotation. In contrast, in the auxiliary posture, the downstream end of the contact surface 22 is located above the horizontal plane passing through the center of rotation.

[0085] As a configuration for easily and accurately changing the posture of the feeding device 2 to the auxiliary posture, the feeding device 2 includes a third proximity sensor 53 and a third protruding piece 63. The configurations of the third proximity sensor 53 and the third protruding piece 63 are the same as those of the second proximity sensor 52 and the second protruding piece 62, except that the targets for alignment are different.

[0086] Here, if there is a gap between the second member 12 and the housing body 90, there is a possibility that the bobbin 91 will get between the second member 12 and the housing body 90 when the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed to the auxiliary posture. To prevent this, in this embodiment, a guide protrusion 25 is formed. The guide protrusion 25 is provided on the contact surface 22 and closes the gap between the second member 12 and the housing body 90. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the guide protrusion 25 is formed with an inclination, so that the bobbin 91 is less likely to get caught on the guide protrusion 25, and the bobbin 91 can be moved accurately toward the bottom of the housing body 90.

[0087] The guide protrusion 25 is particularly effective when the orientation of the feeding device 2 is changed to the auxiliary orientation. However, it is also useful, for example, when the orientation of the feeding device 2 is changed from the preparation orientation to the feeding orientation, because there is a possibility that the bobbin 91 may enter between the second member 12 and the container 90. In other words, the guide protrusion 25 may be formed even for a supplying device 1 in which the orientation of the feeding device 2 is not changed to the auxiliary orientation.

[0088] By changing the posture of the feeding device 2 from the auxiliary posture to the second feeding posture, momentum is imparted to the bobbin 91, making it less likely for the bobbin 91 to get caught in the container 90, and the bobbin 91 can be more reliably transported toward the transport device 4. This completes the process. Note that the lowering of the feeding device 2 does not need to be performed automatically, and the feeding device 2 may be lowered after receiving an instruction from the operator.

[0089] As described above, in this embodiment, the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed in multiple stages. In particular, the posture of the feeding device 2 is repeatedly changed between the first feeding posture and the second feeding posture, or the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed from the feeding posture to the auxiliary posture. When the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed using a hydraulic cylinder as in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to realize this type of control. In this regard, in this embodiment, the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed using the motor 35, so that this type of control can be easily realized.

[0090] The flow chart shown in the above embodiment is an example, and some processes may be omitted, some processes may be changed, or new processes may be added. For example, a plurality of standby postures may be set, and the posture of the insertion device 2 may be changed to the plurality of standby postures in order, and then the posture of the insertion device 2 may be changed to the second insertion posture. Also, after the standby posture, the posture of the insertion device 2 may be changed to the first insertion posture. Also, instead of the process of changing the posture to the first insertion posture and the second insertion posture alternately a predetermined number of times, a process of changing the posture to the first insertion posture and the second insertion posture only once each (in detail, a process of changing the posture to the second insertion posture after the first insertion posture) may be performed. The process of changing the posture of the insertion device 2 to the auxiliary posture and then to the second insertion posture may be omitted. Alternatively, a sensor for detecting the bobbins 91 remaining in the container 90 may be provided, and only when the bobbins 91 remain in the container 90, a process of changing the posture of the insertion device 2 to the auxiliary posture and then to the second insertion posture may be performed. Instead of the two stages of the inserting position, the first inserting position and the second inserting position, the inserting position may be one stage or three or more stages.

[0091] As described above, the supply device 1 of the present embodiment includes the input device 2 and the transport device 4. The input device 2 inputs the bobbin 91 from the storage body 90 in which the bobbin 91 wound with thread is stored. The transport device 4 transports the bobbin 91 input by the input device 2. The position of the input device 2 is changed between the preparation position and the input position, and in the input position, the bobbin 91 is input from the storage body 90 to the transport device 4. The input device 2 includes a first member 11, a second member 12, a rotation device 13, and a control device 3. The first member 11 supports the storage body 90 at least when the position of the input device 2 is changed from the preparation position to the input position. The second member 12 is connected to the first member 11 and supports the storage body 90 in the input position. The rotation device 13 rotates the first member 11 and the second member 12, thereby changing the position of the input device 2 between the preparation position and the input position. The control device 3 controls the rotation device 13. The second member 12 is provided so as to extend in a first direction, which is a direction away from the first member 11, so as to intersect with the first member 11. The second member 12 has an extension part 12a which is a part extending in the first direction and is located on the opposite side of the first member 11 with respect to the center of rotation of the feeding device 2 in the positional relationship in the first direction in the preparation posture, and the extension part 12a approaches the conveying device 4 when the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed from the preparation posture to the feeding posture.

[0092] As a result, the center of rotation is located at the middle of the feeding device 2, not at the end of the device. Therefore, the height of the center of rotation is reduced, and the height of the device in the feeding position can be reduced.

[0093] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction when viewed in a direction parallel to the center of rotation. The feeding device 2 has pins 33 arranged in an arc shape in a range including the opposite side of the first member 11 with respect to the center of rotation in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture. The rotation device 13 rotates the first sprocket 38 that meshes with the pins 33 to rotate the feeding device 2, thereby changing the posture of the feeding device 2.

[0094] This allows greater freedom in the positions of first sprocket 38 and the members that rotate it (motor 35, reducer 36, etc.) compared to a configuration in which a gear and a drive device are disposed at the center of rotation.

[0095] The supply device 1 of this embodiment includes a descent prevention device 40 provided at a location different from the rotation device 13. The control device 3 controls the descent prevention device 40. The descent prevention device 40 includes a second sprocket 41, a stop mechanism 43, and a detection unit 42. The second sprocket 41 meshes with the pin 33. The stop mechanism 43 can stop the rotation of the second sprocket 41 during descent when the position of the input device 2 is changed from the input position to the preparation position. The detection unit 42 detects abnormal rotation of the input device 2 during descent. When the detection unit 42 detects abnormal rotation of the input device 2 during descent, the control device 3 operates the stop mechanism 43 to stop the rotation of the second sprocket 41.

[0096] This allows the rotation of the insertion device 2 to be stopped if an abnormality occurs when the insertion device 2 is lowered.

[0097] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the stop mechanism 43 includes a gear 43a, a gear stop member 43b, and an actuator 43c. The gear 43a rotates integrally with the second sprocket 41. When the position of the input device 2 is changed from the preparation position to the input position during ascent, the gear stop member 43b slides against the gear 43a to allow the rotation of the gear 43a, and when the input device 2 is descending, the gear stop member 43b interferes with the gear 43a to prevent the rotation of the gear 43a. The actuator 43c moves the gear stop member 43b closer to or away from the gear 43a. When the detection unit 42 does not detect abnormal rotation of the input device 2 during descent, the control device 3 controls the actuator 43c to move the gear stop member 43b away from the gear 43a to allow the rotation of the gear 43a. During descent, if the detector 42 detects abnormal rotation of the feeding device 2, the control device 3 controls the actuator 43c to move the gear stopper member 43b closer to the gear 43a to prevent the gear 43a from rotating.

[0098] This makes it possible to accurately stop the descent of the insertion device 2 caused by abnormal rotation while permitting the insertion device 2 to rise.

[0099] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the input device 2 has a detection hole 34a provided in an arc shape in a range including the opposite side of the first member 11 with respect to the center of rotation in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture. The control device 3 determines the presence or absence of abnormal rotation of the input device 2 based on the number of times the detection unit 42 detects the detection hole 34a per unit time.

[0100] This makes it possible to detect abnormal rotation of the feeding device 2 with a simple configuration.

[0101] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the rotation device 13 includes a motor 35 and a reducer 36. The motor 35 generates a driving force for rotationally driving the first member 11 and the second member 12. The reducer 36 reduces the speed of the driving force generated by the motor 35 and transmits it. The reducer 36 has an input section to which the driving force is input by the motor 35, and an output section 39b which reduces the speed of the driving force and outputs it. The first member 11 and the second member 12 are rotationally driven by the driving force output from the output section 39b of the reducer 36. The reducer 36 has a self-locking function that prevents the input section 39a from being driven by the force transmitted to the output section 39b, thereby preventing the output section 39b from being driven.

[0102] The self-locking function prevents the feeding device 2 from rotating due to its own weight.

[0103] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the reducer 36 has a worm gear 37, and the worm gear 37 realizes a self-locking function.

[0104] This makes it possible to suppress rotation of the feeding device 2 due to its own weight by using only a mechanical configuration.

[0105] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the supply device 1 includes a stopper member 4c that stops the bobbin 91 flowing toward the conveying device 4. There are a first and a second loading postures. In the first loading posture, the tip of the extension portion 12a is positioned lower than in the second loading posture. In the first loading posture, the stopper member 4c is positioned on an extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface 22 through which the bobbin 91 loaded into the conveying device 4 flows. In the second loading posture, the extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface 22 intersects with the upper end of the stopper member 4c or is above the stopper member 4c. Under the control of the control device, the posture of the loading device 2 is changed to the first loading posture and then the second loading posture in that order.

[0106] In the first loading position, the bobbin 91 flows over the contact surface 22 and is blocked by the stopper member 4c. Thereafter, the loading device 2 changes its position to the second loading position, whereby the blocked bobbin 91 can be loaded into the transport device 4.

[0107] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, there is an auxiliary posture for moving the bobbin 91 toward the bottom of the container 90. Under the control of the control device, the posture of the insertion device 2 is changed in the order of the insertion posture, the auxiliary posture, and the insertion posture.

[0108] By changing the posture of the feeding device 2 from the feeding posture to the auxiliary posture, the bobbin 91 can be moved in the opposite direction to the transport device 4. Therefore, the next time the posture of the feeding device 2 is changed to the feeding posture, the bobbin 91 gains momentum, so that it can overcome any step or the like in the container 90, for example.

[0109] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the first member 11 includes a solid base member 11b and a support member 11c. The support member 11c is attached to the base member 11b, is hollow, and contacts the bottom of the container 90 to support the container 90.

[0110] This reduces the size and weight of each component compared to when the first member 11 is made of a single member. Furthermore, since the support member 11c is hollow, the weight of the support member is reduced. As a result, handling and assembly of the components is facilitated.

[0111] In the supply device 1 of this embodiment, the second member 12 has a contact surface 22 that contacts the side surface of the container 90 and along which the bobbin 91 fed into the transport device 4 flows. The contact surface 22 is formed with a guide protrusion 25 that guides the bobbin 91, which moves along the contact surface 22 toward the bottom side of the container 90, toward the inside of the container 90.

[0112] This can prevent the bobbin 91 from entering between the contact surface 22 and the container 90. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 Feeding device 2 Feeding device 3. Control device 4. Conveyor 11 First member 12 Second member 12a Extension 13 Rotating device

Claims

1. A conveying device that conveys a bobbin on which a yarn is wound; an input device that inputs the bobbin from a container in which the bobbin is accommodated into the conveying device; Equipped with The position of the insertion device is changed between a preparation position and an insertion position, and the bobbin is inserted from the container into the transport device in the insertion position. The input device is a first member that supports the container when the orientation of the insertion device is changed from the preparation orientation to the insertion orientation; a second member connected to the first member and configured to support the container in the insertion position; a rotation device in which the position of the insertion device is changed between the preparation position and the insertion position by rotationally driving the first member and the second member; A control device for controlling the rotation device; Equipped with The second member is provided so as to extend in a first direction, which is a direction away from the first member, so as to intersect with the first member, The second member has an extension portion that extends in the first direction and is located on the opposite side of the first member across the center of rotation of the input device in the positional relationship in the first direction in the preparation position, and the extension portion approaches the conveying device when the position of the input device is changed from the preparation position to the input position.

2. 2. The supply device of claim 1, A direction perpendicular to the first direction when viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation center is defined as a second direction; the insertion device has, in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture, a pin that is arranged in an arc shape in a range including an opposite side of the first member across the first direction passing through the rotation center, A supply device, characterized in that the rotation device rotates a first transmission member that meshes with the pin to rotate the insertion device, thereby changing the attitude of the insertion device.

3. 3. The supply device of claim 2, A descending prevention device is provided at a location different from the rotation device, The control device controls the descent prevention device, The descent prevention device is A second transmission member that meshes with the pin; a stop mechanism capable of stopping rotation of the second transmission member when the orientation of the insertion device is changed from the insertion orientation to the preparation orientation; A detection unit that detects abnormal rotation of the insertion device during the descent; Equipped with The control device is characterized in that when the detection unit detects abnormal rotation of the input device during the descent, it operates the stopping mechanism to stop the rotation of the second transmission member.

4. 4. The supply device of claim 3, The stopping mechanism includes: A gear that rotates integrally with the second transmission member; a gear stopper member that slides against the gear to allow rotation of the gear when the orientation of the input device is changed from the preparation orientation to the input orientation during an upward movement, and that interferes with the gear to prevent rotation of the gear when the input device is downward. an actuator for moving the gear stopper member toward or away from the gear; Equipped with When the detection unit does not detect abnormal rotation of the input device during the descent, the control device controls the actuator to move the gear stopper member away from the gear to allow rotation of the gear, The control device is characterized in that, during the descent, if the detection unit detects abnormal rotation of the input device, the control device controls the actuator to bring the gear stop member closer to the gear to prevent rotation of the gear.

5. A supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, the insertion device has a detection target portion provided in an arc shape in a range including an opposite side of the first member across the first direction passing through the rotation center in a positional relationship in the second direction in the preparation posture, The control device determines whether or not the insertion device is rotating abnormally based on the number of times the detection unit detects the detected part per unit time.

6. A supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The rotating device includes: a drive device that generates a drive force for rotationally driving the first member and the second member; a reducer including an input section to which a driving force is input by the driving device and an output section to reduce the speed of the driving force and output the driving force; Equipped with The first member and the second member are rotationally driven by the driving force output from the output portion of the reduction gear, A supply device characterized in that the reducer has a self-locking function that prevents the input part from being driven by a force transmitted to the output part, thereby preventing the output part from being driven.

7. 7. The supply device of claim 6, The supply device is characterized in that the reducer has a worm gear, and the self-locking function is realized by the worm gear.

8. A supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, a stopper member for stopping the bobbin moving toward the transport device; The inserting position includes a first inserting position and a second inserting position, In the first closing position, a tip end of the extension portion is located lower than in the second closing position, In the first loading position, the stopper member is located on an extension line of a downstream end of a contact surface through which the bobbin loaded into the transport device flows, In the second closing position, an extension line of the downstream end of the contact surface intersects with an upper end of the stopper member or is located above the stopper member, A supply device characterized in that the posture of the input device is changed to the first input posture and then the second input posture under the control of the control device.

9. A supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: There is an auxiliary position for moving the bobbin towards the bottom of the housing, A supply device characterized in that the posture of the input device is changed to the input posture, the auxiliary posture, and the input posture in this order under the control of the control device.

10. A supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The first member is A solid base member; a support member attached to the base member, the support member being hollow and contacting a bottom of the container to support the container; A supplying device comprising:

11. A supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the second member has a contact surface that contacts a side surface of the container and through which the bobbin inserted into the conveying device flows, A supply device characterized in that a guide protrusion is formed on the contact surface to guide the bobbin moving along the contact surface toward the bottom side of the container toward the inside of the container.

Images