Barrel plating apparatus

Abstract

To provide a barrel plating apparatus capable of achieving efficient plating while improving productivity and plating quality.SOLUTION: A barrel plating apparatus comprises: a plating tank 2 filled with a plating solution 3; a plurality of barrels 10 each including a housing portion 11 configured to accommodate a workpiece 1 and provided with solution-passing openings 12 allowing the plating solution 3 to flow therethrough; and a rotation mechanism 30 configured to rotate the plurality of barrels 10, wherein the plurality of barrels 10 are disposed outside a rotation shaft 30a of the rotation mechanism 30 and are detachably coupled to the rotation mechanism 30.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a barrel plating apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Barrel plating (rotary plating) is one type of electroplating method. In rotary barrel plating, the workpiece (the object to be plated) is placed in a cylindrical barrel-shaped container and plated while the barrel is rotating. Barrel plating equipment must properly roll and mix the workpiece inside the barrel and bring the deposit (lump) to the surface, and in order to maintain uniform plating film thickness and plating quality, the amount of workpieces put into the barrel is limited to a certain amount. The appropriate amount of workpieces put into the barrel are piled up in the form of lumps at the bottom of the barrel, and as they are lifted in the direction of rotation, they are properly rolled and mixed and brought to the surface, which ensures uniform film thickness and maintains plating quality. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-222593 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The barrel plating apparatus 900 disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a wire mesh cathode fixed to the inner surface of a barrel container, as shown in Figure 14. This barrel plating apparatus can suppress and prevent damage to the workpieces contained within the wire mesh, but the spatial area outside the wire mesh becomes dead space that cannot be plated. This reduces the number of workpieces that can be accommodated relative to the volume of the barrel, hindering plating efficiency and reducing productivity. Another problem is that it is difficult to achieve both improved plating efficiency and productivity and improved plating quality.

[0005] The present disclosure has been developed with the aim of eliminating the above-mentioned drawbacks, and one of the objectives of the present disclosure is to provide a barrel plating device that can achieve efficient plating, improve productivity, and improve plating quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A barrel plating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plating tank filled with a plating solution, a plurality of barrels each having a storage section for storing a workpiece and provided with a passage opening through which the plating solution passes, and a rotation mechanism for rotating the plurality of barrels, the plurality of barrels being arranged outside the rotation axis of the rotation mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The barrel plating equipment described above has the advantage of being able to realize efficient plating, improve productivity, and improve plating quality. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a barrel plating apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the barrel. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the barrel. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the barrel. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the barrel. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a conventional barrel-type electroplating apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A barrel plating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a plating tank filled with plating solution, a plurality of barrels each having a storage section for storing a workpiece and provided with a passage opening through which the plating solution passes, and a rotation mechanism for rotating the plurality of barrels, the plurality of barrels being arranged outside the rotation axis of the rotation mechanism.

[0010] The above configuration has the advantage of realizing efficient plating, improving productivity, and improving plating quality. This is because the barrel plating device has multiple barrels, and the rotation mechanism rotates the multiple barrels, each positioned outside the rotation axis, to plate the workpieces contained in each barrel. The above configuration accommodates workpieces in multiple barrels, distributing the workpieces among the barrels, thereby improving plating productivity. Conventional plating barrel devices consisting of a single barrel can increase the workpiece capacity by increasing the barrel diameter, but this also increases the area where no workpieces are contained and increases the overall size. However, the above configuration accommodates workpieces in multiple barrels, thereby increasing the workpiece capacity per barrel or container volume or area, achieving efficient plating and improving productivity. Furthermore, the clumps of workpieces formed in the barrel can be reduced compared to when workpieces are contained in a single barrel, thereby increasing the relative surface area, increasing the number of times and duration that the workpieces are exposed to the surface, and achieving efficient contact with the plating solution. The above configuration allows plating of workpieces housed in each barrel, prevents or reduces damage caused by collisions or contact between workpieces, and allows for the selection and determination of workpieces to be housed in each barrel. Furthermore, the above configuration allows the rotation mechanism to revolve multiple barrels around a rotation axis, which is the center of rotation of the rotation mechanism, rather than around the center of each barrel. Therefore, the barrels revolve in a circular orbit around the rotation axis, lengthening the orbital distance (revolutionary path) of each barrel per rotation. Furthermore, the relative positions and orientations of the multiple barrels can be changed while rotating. The barrel movement due to the orbital movement facilitates the inflow and outflow of plating solution through the liquid passage openings. The orbital movement also agitates the plating solution, facilitating the inflow and outflow of plating solution into each barrel. This prevents or prevents a decrease in metal ion concentration and variations, achieves uniform plating film thickness, shortens plating time, and improves plating efficiency, productivity, and plating quality. The rotation axis is the center of rotation of the multiple barrels and may or may not include a shaft member.

[0011] In addition to the above configuration, another embodiment of the barrel plating apparatus according to the present disclosure may also include a barrel arrangement in which adjacent barrels are spaced apart. This configuration offers the advantage of achieving efficient plating, improving productivity, and improving plating quality. By spaced-apart barrels with gaps between them, plating solution can be efficiently introduced into and extracted from each barrel, reducing the risk of metal ion concentration reduction or imbalance and further minimizing interference and impact of workpieces within each storage compartment. This prevents or reduces insufficient plating solution flow, metal ion concentration reduction, and imbalance, which can occur in configurations where partition plates are installed within a barrel to separate multiple storage compartments, or where multiple barrels are connected without gaps on the same wall surface. Spaced-apart barrels that revolve around a rotation axis can further promote the introduction and extraction of plating solution into and from each barrel and the agitation of the plating solution. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates the insertion and removal of workpieces from each barrel.

[0012] In addition to the above configuration, another embodiment of the barrel plating apparatus according to the present disclosure may have a central connector that connects the multiple barrels in a central region including the rotation axis. The above configuration has the advantage that the central connector arranged in the central region can stably support and connect the multiple barrels. The central connector also has the advantage of providing reinforcement, improving the strength of the apparatus, and simplifying the structure. The central connector also rotates with each barrel to promote circulation and agitation of the plating solution, causing the plating solution to flow from the central region to each barrel and outward, circulating and agitating the plating solution, promoting the inflow and outflow of the plating solution into each barrel, and preventing unevenness or a decrease in the metal ion concentration of the plating solution, thereby achieving efficient plating, improving productivity, and improving plating quality.

[0013] Another embodiment of the barrel plating apparatus according to the present disclosure, in addition to the above configuration, further includes a peripheral barrel housing multiple barrels, which is connected to the multiple barrels and a rotation mechanism, and which can rotate the multiple barrels together with the peripheral barrel. The above configuration features a peripheral barrel housing multiple barrels and being connected to the multiple barrels from their end faces or exterior, thereby stably supporting and connecting the multiple barrels and reinforcing them to improve the strength of the apparatus. Furthermore, the above configuration features a peripheral barrel (peripheral housing section) housing workpieces outside the multiple barrels, thereby increasing the overall workpiece capacity of the apparatus, achieving efficient plating and improving productivity. Furthermore, a lumpy deposit of the workpieces forms in the peripheral barrel (peripheral housing section), separate from the multiple barrels, exposing the surface of the workpieces and preventing damage due to collision or contact with the workpieces in the multiple barrels, thereby improving plating quality. In addition, the outer barrel has a structure that promotes the flow and agitation of the plating solution, which encourages the inflow and outflow of plating solution into each barrel and prevents unevenness and decline in the metal ion concentration of the plating solution, achieving efficient plating and improving plating quality while increasing productivity.

[0014] In addition to any of the above configurations, a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure can have an end face connector that connects the end faces of the multiple barrels to the rotation mechanism. The above configuration has the advantage that the end face connector can stably support the multiple barrels, and by connecting the end faces of the barrels to the rotation mechanism via the end face connector, the structure can be simplified.

[0015] In addition to the above configuration, the barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may have a connection adjustment unit that allows the end face connection unit to adjust the position at which the barrels are connected. This configuration allows the arrangement of the barrels to be determined according to the size, shape, and quantity of the workpieces, thereby achieving efficient plating and improving productivity while improving plating quality.

[0016] In addition to the above configuration, a barrel plating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has a barrel that can be detachably connected to a rotation mechanism. This configuration allows the size, shape, and number of barrels to be appropriately determined, selected, and replaced, enabling efficient plating and improved plating quality according to the size, shape, and quantity of workpieces. This allows for efficient plating and improved productivity while improving plating quality. Another advantage of this configuration is that the barrels can be removed to easily load and unload workpieces.

[0017] In addition to the above configuration, in another embodiment of the barrel plating apparatus according to the present disclosure, the end face connecting portion has an opening through which the barrel is inserted, and the detachable barrel can be inserted into the opening to connect to the rotation mechanism, and can be removed from the opening to detach from the rotation mechanism. This configuration has the advantage of making it easy to load and unload workpieces into the detached barrel.

[0018] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, terms indicating specific directions or positions (e.g., "upper," "lower," and other terms incorporating these terms) will be used as necessary. However, the use of these terms is intended to facilitate understanding of the invention with reference to the drawings, and the meaning of these terms does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, parts with the same reference numerals appearing in multiple drawings indicate the same or equivalent parts or components. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are illustrative examples of the technical concept of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention to the following. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of the components described below are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the content described in one embodiment or example may also be applicable to other embodiments or examples. Furthermore, the sizes and positional relationships of components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. (Embodiment 1)

[0019] 1 and 2 includes a plating tank 2 filled with a plating solution 3, a plurality of barrels 10 that accommodate workpieces 1, and a rotation mechanism 30 having a rotation shaft 30a that rotates the plurality of barrels 10. The workpieces 1 (objects to be plated) are not limited and may be, for example, bolts, nuts, pins, buttons, wires, wire rods, bars, plates, strips, etc. (Plating tank 2, plating solution 3)

[0020] The plating tank 2 is filled with plating solution 3. The multiple barrels 10 are set at an immersion position where all or a predetermined portion is immersed in the plating solution 3 in the plating tank 2, and are rotated by a rotation mechanism 30 to plate the workpiece 1 in each barrel 10. The plating tank 2 has a size, shape, and structure that allows the multiple barrels 10 to be arranged and rotated at the immersion position. The amount of plating solution 3 is equal to or greater than the amount that will immerse a predetermined workpiece 1 contained therein at the immersion position. The plating solution 3 is a variety of plating solutions depending on the plating layer to be plated on the workpiece 1. (10 barrels)

[0021] The barrel plating apparatus 100 has multiple barrels 10, and applies plating to the workpiece 1 contained therein while rotating the barrels 10 around the rotation axis 30a of the rotation mechanism 30. The barrels 10 are hollow and tubular, and form an accommodation section 11 therein for accommodating the workpiece 1, and are provided with a liquid passage opening 12 through which the plating solution 3 passes.

[0022] The barrel 10 is a rotating body that rotates at an immersion position immersed in the plating solution 3 to plate the workpiece 1. The barrel 10 includes a hollow cylindrical portion 10A and a pair of end faces 10B, 10C connected to the cylindrical portion 10A and closing both ends of the cylindrical portion 10A. The cylindrical portion 10A is, for example, a cylinder or a rectangular tube. The cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 10A perpendicular to the central axis 16 can be a regular shape such as a circle (FIGS. 1 and 2), ellipse, triangle, square, pentagon, hexagon (FIG. 3), heptagon, octagon, dodecagon, or polygon, or can be an irregular shape.

[0023] For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 10A is circular, the diameter remains constant even as the barrel 10 rotates. The inner surface 10a of the cylindrical portion 10A repeatedly and stably contacts the workpiece 1 at a constant angle while rotating, lifting, rolling, mixing, and stirring the workpiece 1. If the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 10A is hexagonal, the inner surface 10a is composed of six flat surfaces and six corners where the flat surfaces connect. If the cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 10A is polygonal, the diagonal lines connecting the diagonal corners and the line segments connecting the midpoints of the opposing sides have different lengths. As a result, the flat surfaces and corners alternate with each other during rotation, lifting, rolling, mixing, and stirring the workpiece 1 in the direction of rotation of the barrel 10. Furthermore, the polygonal cylindrical portion 10A can improve the strength of each flat surface and corner, and the corners can facilitate the inflow and outflow, circulation, and stirring of the plating solution 3. The cylindrical portion 10A can be formed, for example, by bending a single plate material, or can be manufactured by connecting, bonding, and fixing multiple members. The size of the barrel 10 is determined appropriately depending on the device and the workpiece 1. For example, the diameter of the barrel 10 can be 10 cm to 40 cm, and the length can be 40 cm to 100 cm. For example, a barrel 10 with a diameter of 22 cm and a length of 80 cm can accommodate a workpiece 1 weighing approximately 20 to 30 kg, and four barrels 1 can accommodate a total of approximately 80 to 120 kg of workpiece 1.

[0024] The multiple barrels 10 can be of the same or different shapes, sizes, widths, and lengths. FIG. 6 shows an example of three different diameter sizes: a large barrel 10X, a medium-sized barrel 10Y, and a small barrel 10Z. The barrels 10 (10X, 10Y, 10Z) of relatively different sizes (diameters) can be selected depending on the size, shape, and number of workpieces 1 to be accommodated. Furthermore, the rotation of barrels 10 of different sizes (diameters) can more efficiently agitate the plating solution 3.

[0025] The barrel 10 has a storage section 11 therein that stores the workpiece 1. The storage section 11 is a storage space that stores the workpiece 1 inside the barrel 10. The cylindrical section 10A and the end surface sections 10B and 10C each have an inner surface 10a and an outer surface 10b, and the inner surface 10a of the cylindrical section 10A and the outer surface 10b form the storage section 11, and the outer surface 10b of the cylindrical section 10A and the outer surface 10b form the outer shape of the barrel 10.

[0026] The barrel 10 is formed from a material that is strong enough to accommodate the workpieces 1, rotate them, and plate them, and is resistant to the plating solution 3. The barrel 10 can be formed from synthetic resins such as polypropylene resin (PP), polyvinyl chloride resin (PVC), acrylic resin, fluororesin, and PEEK resin. It can also be molded using any of these synthetic resins, or it can be formed from a combination of multiple synthetic resins or multiple layers. The barrel 10 is sized to accommodate a predetermined amount of workpieces 1 depending on the shape, size, and quantity of the workpieces 1, and to rotate the workpieces 1 in a immersion position within the plating tank 4 where they can be plated. The resin barrel 10 is non-conductive and easy to mold and process.

[0027] The barrel plating apparatus 100 has two or more barrels 10, and FIG. 2 shows four barrels 10. In a vertical cross-sectional view relative to the rotation axis 30a, the multiple barrels 10 can be arranged symmetrically about two or more central axes 16. For example, the multiple barrels 10 can be arranged in point symmetry with the rotation axis 30a as the center of symmetry or in line symmetry with a line passing through the rotation axis 30a as the axis of symmetry. The multiple barrels 10 can be arranged at equal or different intervals. In the example shown in FIG. 2, four barrels 10 of the same diameter are arranged at equal intervals (90-degree intervals between the central axes 16) in a cross-sectional view. The four barrels 10 are arranged with their central axes 16 spaced 90 degrees apart, and two pairs of central axes 16 symmetrically positioned relative to the rotation axis 30a intersect (orthogonally). FIG. 4 shows an example having three barrels 10, and FIG. 5 shows an example having five barrels 10.

[0028] The multiple barrels 10 revolve around the rotation axis 30a of the rotation mechanism 30. The rotation axis 30a is the center of the multiple barrels 10 that revolve. The multiple barrels 10 are arranged outside the rotation axis 30a at a distance from the rotation axis 30a. The distance between the rotation axis 30a and the central axis 16 (center) of the barrels 10 is the revolution radius (R), which is larger than the radius (r) of the barrels 10. By arranging the barrels 10 at a distance from the rotation axis 30a, the barrels 10 revolve around the rotation axis 30a, centered on the rotation axis 30a. The multiple barrels 10 perform an orbital motion, moving on an orbital path. The orbital path is the movement path or track of the central axis 16 of the barrel 10. The longer the orbital radius (R), the longer the movement path (orbital path) of one revolution. When the orbit is a circular orbit, the distance from the rotation axis 30a to the central axis 16 is the orbital radius (R), and the orbit is 2πR. Note that the central axis 16 of the barrel 10 is the center of the circle when the cross-sectional shape of the barrel 10 is circular, and is the intersection of the diagonals closest to the center when the cross-sectional shape of the barrel 10 is polygonal.

[0029] Unlike rotation around the central axis 16 of the barrel 10, the revolution around the rotation axis 30a involves changes in the relative position and posture of the barrel 10 with respect to the rotation axis 30a, and also involves changes in the relative positional relationships between the multiple barrels 10. For example, the barrel 10 (central axis 16) revolving counterclockwise around the revolution orbit in Fig. 2 rises from the right position (0 degree position) of the rotation axis 30a toward the upper left, passes the upper position (90 degrees) of the rotation axis 30a at the highest position, starts to descend toward the lower left, passes the left position (180 degree position) of the rotation axis 30a, descends toward the lower right, and passes the lower position (270 degree position) below the rotation axis 30a at the lowest position, starts to ascend toward the upper right, moves to the right position (0 degree position) of the rotation axis 30a, and completes one revolution. The relative position of the revolving barrel 10 (central axis 16) changes with respect to the rotation axis 30a, and the relative posture also changes. In the case of the four barrels 10 shown in Figure 2, the barrel 10 that is leading in the rotation (revolution) direction moves 90 degrees ahead of the next barrel 10, and the relative positional relationship between the adjacent barrels 10 changes as they move along the revolution orbit.

[0030] The revolution of the multiple barrels 10 can promote the inflow and outflow of the plating solution 3 more than rotation. In the case of rotation, the barrels 10 do not move (revolution), but rotate around the central axis 16. Therefore, the movement direction of the liquid passage openings 12 provided in the barrels 10 is tangential to the rotating barrels 10, which is perpendicular to the radial direction of the barrels 10, which is the opening direction of the liquid passage openings 12. Therefore, rotation does not actively promote the inflow and outflow of the plating solution 3 into the barrels 10. In contrast, in the case of revolution, the movement direction of the liquid passage openings 12 is the forward direction of the revolving barrels 10 (tangential to the revolution path), which is significantly closer to the radial direction of the barrels 10, which is the opening direction of the liquid passage openings 12. Therefore, the revolution of the barrels 10 can actively promote the inflow and outflow of the plating solution 3. For example, the liquid passage opening 12 at the front end and the liquid passage opening 12 at the rear end in the direction of travel of the revolving barrel 10 are approximately parallel to the movement direction of the liquid passage opening 12. Therefore, the revolving barrel 10 moves so as to press the plating solution 3 against the liquid passage opening 12 at the front end, allowing the plating solution 3 to flow in succession through the liquid passage opening 12 at the front end. Furthermore, as the plating solution 3 flows in through the liquid passage opening 12 at the front end, the plating solution 3 can flow out succession through the liquid passage opening 12 at the rear end. Therefore, by increasing the flow rate of the plating solution 3 into the barrel 10 and improving the efficiency of the flow, the flow rate of the plating solution 3 within the storage section 11 increases, allowing the plating solution 3 to be replaced or replaced with new plating solution 3 through the flow of the plating solution 3. New plating solution 3 can flow into the barrel 10 successively, and plating solution 3 that has come into contact with and adhered to the workpiece 1 within the barrel 10 can flow out of the barrel 10. This suppresses and prevents a decrease or variation in the metal ion concentration of the plating solution 3 due to plating. Furthermore, the revolving barrel 10 moves within the plating solution 3 in the plating tank 2 while revolving, changing its relative position while depositing a plating layer on the workpiece 1, so that the new position to which it moves on the orbital path does not experience a decrease in metal ion concentration due to plating deposition, and new plating solution 3 without a decrease in metal ion concentration can flow in, and the inflow of new plating solution 3 pushes out the plating solution 3 that has flowed within the storage section 11, allowing it to flow out.In other words, unlike rotation, deposition of a plating layer (i.e., reduction in metal ion concentration) and inflow and outflow of plating solution 3 are not repeated in the same place, and there is an advantage that new plating solution 3 without reduction in metal ion concentration can be supplied and inflowed. Furthermore, the multiple barrels 10 that revolve can efficiently stir the plating solution 3 over a wide range while revolving, making it possible to equalize the metal ion concentration outside the barrels 10.

[0031] Furthermore, if the rotational movement speed (the speed at which a point on the outer surface 10b of the barrel 10 moves) is the same, the time required for one revolution (period) is longer for revolution than for rotation, and the mass (surface) of the workpiece 1 in the storage section 11 can advance and move in the barrel 10 in the tangential direction of the revolution orbit while experiencing greater resistance from the plating solution 3 than in the case of rotation, allowing the plating solution 3 to come into contact with the workpiece 1, allowing the workpiece 1 to roll and mix, and in this state allowing the workpiece 1 to be exposed on the surface of the mass. Plating efficiency can be improved by orbiting multiple barrels 10 and further moving the mass of workpiece 1 in the barrels 10 at a smaller rate than during rotation, exposing the surface to each barrel 10.

[0032] The multiple barrels 10 are spaced apart from one another, with gaps formed between adjacent barrels 10. Spaced apart, each barrel 10 prevents and minimizes interference and influence between the works 1, including contact and collision of the works 1 within the storage section 11, as well as a decrease in the metal ion concentration of the plating solution 3. Furthermore, the plating solution 3 can flow into and out of each barrel 10 through the gaps between the spaced apart barrels 10 as they revolve, and the spaced apart barrels 10 can agitate the plating solution 3 more efficiently over a wider area. This spaced arrangement significantly contributes to shortening plating time and improving efficiency and plating quality. For example, in a demonstration test, a comparative example barrel plating device having four barrels with no spacing was compared with barrel plating devices in which the spacing between multiple barrels 10 was 10% or more but less than 15%, 15% or more but less than 20%, 20% or more but less than 25%, or 25% or more of the diameter of the barrel 10, for the same type and capacity of work 1. It was confirmed that the plating time could be reduced by approximately 10% to 30%, good plating quality was obtained, and plating defects were reduced.

[0033] The barrel 10 in Figures 1 and 2 is arranged parallel to the rotation axis 30a, and multiple barrels 10 (central axes 16) are arranged in a parallel orientation. The central axes 16 of the barrels 10 are arranged parallel to the rotation axis 30a, and the central axes 16 of the four barrels 10 are arranged horizontally. The barrels 10 revolve vertically around the rotation axis 30a. The inner surface 10a of the cylindrical portion 10A lifts the workpiece 1 in the rotational direction, gradually sending it to the surface layer (fluidized layer) of the layered mass, where it is exposed. The workpiece 1 then rolls and slides down the sloping surface in an orderly and continuous manner, coming into contact with the plating solution 3 and depositing a plating layer. By repeating this process, the plating layer is deposited. Furthermore, the vertical rotation of the barrel 10 changes the height position, which does not occur when it rotates on its own axis. As the barrel 10 rotates and moves while facing a large resistance from the plating solution 3, it can roll, mix, and stir the workpiece 1.

[0034] The workpiece 1 can be randomly stirred and mixed vertically and horizontally by repeatedly moving it horizontally in the axial direction in addition to vertically moving in the rotational direction. The shape of the inner surface 10a of the barrel 10 can be added to the rotation of the barrel 10 to promote random rolling, stirring, and mixing of the workpiece 1. For example, the inner surface 10a of the barrel 10 can be flat, curved, uneven, stepped, tapered, inclined, or non-parallel to the outer surface. The barrel 10 can be configured with the same or different thicknesses. The inner surface 10a and the outer surface 10b can be the same (similar shapes) or different shapes. For example, the cylindrical portion 10 can have a polygonal inner shape and a cylindrical outer shape, or vice versa. Furthermore, the stirring and mixing of the workpiece 1 can be promoted by providing the outer surface 10b of the barrel 10 with a component or shape that promotes stirring of the plating solution 3.

[0035] The barrel 10 has a plurality of liquid passage openings 12 in the cylindrical portion 10A through which the plating solution 3 passes. The liquid passage openings 12 can also be provided in the end surface portions 10B and 10C. The liquid passage openings 12 are through-holes that penetrate the inner surface 10a and the outer surface 10b, and communicate the inside and outside of the barrel 10, allowing the plating solution 3 to pass in and out. When the barrel 10 is immersed, the plating solution 3 in the plating tank 2 flows into the storage portion 11 through the liquid passage openings 12, the workpiece 1 comes into contact with the plating solution 3, and the plating solution 3 flows out through the liquid passage openings 12. The liquid passage openings 12 are sized and shaped to prevent the workpiece 1 stored in the storage portion 11 or components other than the workpiece 1 stored in the storage portion 11 (e.g., dummy balls that promote stirring and current flow) from falling out, clogging, or becoming pinched. The shape, size, and number of the liquid passage openings 12 are not limited as long as they allow the plating solution 3 to flow in and out and prevent the workpiece 1 from falling. For example, they can be circular or polygonal. The multiple liquid passage openings 12 can have the same or different shapes, sizes, pitches, and densities, and perforated plates, meshes, etc. can be used. The liquid passage openings 12 are appropriately determined depending on the workpiece 1, barrel 10, separation distance, etc. For example, the liquid passage openings 12 can have a diameter of 1 mm to 5 mm and a pitch of 1 mm to 5 mm. In a demonstration test, it was confirmed that a combination of diameters of 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 3.5 mm and pitches of 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, and 2.5 mm for the liquid passage openings 12 could achieve a desirable inflow and outflow of the plating solution 3.

[0036] The barrel 10 has an opening 13 through which the workpiece 1 can be inserted and removed, and an openable / closeable lid 14 that opens and closes the opening 13 to insert and remove the workpiece 1. As shown in FIG. 1 , the openable / closeable lid 14 can be provided on the cylindrical portion 10A, which is the side of the barrel 10. By providing the opening 13 and the openable / closeable lid 14 on the outer periphery, the workpiece 1 can be easily inserted and removed even when the barrel 10 is connected. The opening 13 and the openable / closeable lid 14 can also be provided on the end surface portions 10B and 10C. Furthermore, a portion of the barrel 10 can be separated or divided into multiple pieces, allowing the workpiece 1 to be inserted and removed through the opening 13. For example, the barrel 10 can have one or both of the end surface portions 10B and 10C removable, allowing the workpiece 1 to be inserted and removed.

[0037] End surface portions 10B, 10C are disposed at the axial ends of central axis 16 of barrel 10 and close the openings at both opposing ends of tubular portion 10. End surface portions 10B, 10C can be fixed to tubular portion 10A by, for example, welding, or can be detachably connected or fixed to tubular portion 10A by engagement, a fitting structure, bolts, or the like. Either or both of end surface portions 10B, 10C can be integral with tubular portion 10A. End surface portions 10B, 10C can have shapes corresponding to the openings at both ends of tubular portion 10A, and can be symmetrical or asymmetrical.

[0038] The barrel 10 has a central axis 16 connecting the centers of the end face portions 10B and 10C. The central axis 16 is the center of each barrel 10 and may or may not include a shaft member, as with the rotating shaft 30a. The end face portions 10B and 10C are connected to the end face connecting portion 21 and may be integral with the end face connecting portion 21. The rotating shaft 30a can be connected to a support portion that rotatably supports the end face connecting portion 21 and multiple barrels 10. The support portion rotatably supports the barrels 10 and the end face connecting portion 21. The support portion can be provided on both or one of the end face portions 10B and 10C of the barrel 10. The support portions located on both sides facing the end face portions 10B and 10C can rotatably and stably support the barrel 10 via the rotating shaft 30a. The support portion can also have a rotating portion that rotates together with the barrel 10, and can rotatably connect and support the rotating portion. The support part can rotatably support and connect the barrel 10 together with the rotating part, and the non-rotating part fixed to the support part can make the non-rotating part and the rotating shaft 30a non-rotating. The support part can be connected to the connecting part 20 and can be used as both, or can be an integrated structure. (Connection part 20)

[0039] The connecting portion 20 connects multiple barrels 10 and / or connects the barrels 10 to the rotation mechanism 30. This disclosure does not specify the method or manner of connecting the barrels 10. For example, the connecting portion 20 joins, supports, and holds the barrels 10 that have been arranged, attached, inserted, fitted, clamped, locked, or temporarily fastened in a predetermined position, and connects and fixes them by screwing, welding, or the like. The connecting portion 20 connects the barrels 10 by contacting the outer surface 10b of the barrels 10 in a shape that corresponds to the outer surface 10b of the barrels 10, such as a plate shape, L-shape, cross shape, or three-dimensional shape. The connecting portion 20 may have a connecting member that protrudes from the barrel 10 and connects the barrels 10, such as a concave-convex shape. The connecting portion 20 in FIGS. 1 and 2 has an end face connecting portion 21 that connects to the end faces 10B and 10C of the barrel 10, and a central connecting portion 22 that connects one or more barrels 10 in a central region. The end face connector 21 in FIG. 1 connects the end faces 10B, 10C of the multiple barrels 10 at both end faces 10B, 10C of the multiple barrels 10 and clamps the tubular portion 10A. The end face connector 21 connects the multiple barrels 10 to the rotation mechanism 30. For example, the end face connector 21 can be connected by inserting a screw into a threaded hole that penetrates the end face connector 21 and the end faces 10B, 10C of the barrels 10 and fastening the screws, or by welding or other methods. The end face connector 21 in FIG. 1 has a rotation axis 30a, which serves as the center of revolution for the multiple barrels 10, passing through the outer tubular body 30b. The end face connector 21 has the rotation axis 30a located at its center, and connects the multiple barrels 10 so that they pass through the outer orbit of the rotation axis 30a. The end face connector 21 connects the multiple barrels 10 to the rotation mechanism 30 via one or more gears 33 in a revolvable manner. For example, the rotational drive of a motor is transmitted via gears 33, including peripheral gears 33a, provided on the periphery of the end face connecting portions 21 of one or both end faces (both end faces in FIG. 1), causing the multiple barrels 10 connected and fixed to the end face connecting portions 21 to rotate in an orbital path around the rotation axis 30a. The connecting portion 20 can be provided with gears 33 on one or more of the end faces of the end face connecting portions 21, the rotation axis 30a (cylindrical body 30b), the end faces 10B and 10C of the barrels 10, the peripheries of the end faces 10B and 10C, the central axis 16, and the cylindrical portion 10A, and can connect the barrels 10 to the rotation mechanism 30. The rotation mechanism 30 in FIG. 1 causes the multiple barrels 10 connected and fixed via the end face connecting portions 21 to revolve in the same rotational direction (counterclockwise) of the orbital path.Furthermore, as will be described later, the connecting portion 20 can connect the plurality of barrels 10 to the rotation mechanism 30 in a rotatable and / or detachable manner.

[0040] The central connector 22 in FIG. 2 connects each of the multiple cylindrical barrels 10 at a central region including the center of revolution between them. One or more central connectors 22 can be provided to stably support the connected barrels 10. They can extend partially or entirely in the axial direction (Y direction) of the barrels 10. The central connector 22 in FIG. 2 connects four barrels 10, with the barrels 10 arranged at equal intervals. The central connectors 22 in FIG. 2 are arranged with the central axes 16 of the barrels 10 spaced at 90-degree intervals, connecting the four barrels 10 in a cross shape in cross-sectional view. The central connectors 22 connect barrels 10 that are positioned opposite each other, and also connect two pairs of central connectors 22 that connect two pairs of barrels 10 in an orthogonal (vertical) position. Multiple spaced central connectors 22 can be arranged in the direction of the rotation axis 30a and can extend in the direction of the rotation axis 30a. The central connector 22 may also have an agitator that agitates the plating solution 3 while rotating around the rotation axis 30a. The agitator may have a plate-like, L-shaped, cross-shaped, three-dimensional, flat, inclined, curved, or other shape. It may also have a notch, opening, unevenness, groove, or the like. The central connectors 22 may also be spaced apart, providing a gap or space between adjacent central connectors 22 to promote the flow of the plating solution 3 from the center of rotation toward the outside or from the outside toward the center, thereby agitating the plating solution 3. This also promotes flow in and out of the barrel 10. By providing both the end connectors 21 and the central connector 22 to the barrel 10, the barrel 10 can be more stably supported. The central connector 22 may be connected to the end connectors 21 or may be integrally constructed.

[0041] The connecting unit 20 may have a connecting adjustment unit that can adjust and change the connecting position of the barrel 10. The connecting adjustment unit can adjust and change the connecting position of the barrel 10, determine and change the size, shape, and arrangement of the barrel 10 according to the size, shape, and quantity of the workpieces 1, and even replace the barrel 10. The connecting adjustment unit determines the arrangement and posture of the connected barrel 10 by connecting the barrel to a predetermined position. The connecting adjustment unit can replace barrels of different sizes and shapes and can connect barrels to the end face connecting unit 21 in different positions. For example, the end face connecting unit 21 may have connecting holes into which parts or protrusions of the end face portions 10B and 10C can be inserted, and protrusions such as the central axis 16 of the barrel 10 can be inserted to connect the barrels. The arrangement of the connecting holes determines the diameter size of the connectable barrels 10 and the distance between the central axes 16 of the barrels 10. The closer to the center of the end face connecting portion 21 (rotation shaft 30a), the smaller the diameter of the connectable barrels 10 and the narrower the distance between the central axes 16 of the barrels 10. Furthermore, the farther from the center of the end face connecting portion 21, the larger the diameter of the connectable barrels 10 can be and the wider the distance between the central axes 16 of the barrels 10 can be. For example, if four connecting holes (first to fourth connecting holes from the rotation shaft 30a side) are provided, and the barrel 10 connected to the second connecting hole, which is second closest to the center of the end face connecting portion 21, is set to a standard size and the distance between the central axes 16 is set to a standard interval, the size of the barrel 10 connected to the first connecting hole, which is closest to the center and is further inward, will be smaller than the standard size, and the distance between the central axes 16 of the barrels 10 can be set to be narrower than the standard interval. Furthermore, as the distance from the center increases, such as the third connecting hole third closest to the center of the end face connecting portion 21 and the fourth connecting hole furthest, the size of the connected barrels 10 becomes larger than the standard size, and the separation distance between the central axes 16 of the barrels 10 can be wider than the standard distance. Multiple numbers other than 4, for example, 3, 5, etc., can be supported. The method of connecting the end face connecting portion 21 is not specified, and it can have a member that can be locked, fitted, or clamped with the barrels 10, for example. (Rotation mechanism 30)

[0042] The rotation mechanism 30 has a rotation axis 30a at its center of rotation, and revolves (rotates) the multiple barrels 10 around the rotation axis 30a. The rotation mechanism 30 is connected to the barrels 10 via a connection unit 20 and drives them to rotate. The rotation mechanism 30 may have, for example, a motor that can directly or indirectly rotate the barrels 10, and may have a rotation transmission unit 32 that includes parts and members that transmit the rotational drive of the motor or the like to the barrels 10. The rotation transmission unit 32 may be, for example, a gear 33, concaves and convexes, a sprocket, a cam, rubber, a belt, a chain, or the like.

[0043] The rotation mechanism 30 revolves the multiple barrels 10 via gears 33 provided on the connecting portion 20 and the barrels 10. For example, the rotation mechanism 30 shown in FIG. 1 revolves the multiple barrels 10 via a motor that provides rotational drive and a gear 33 that transmits the rotational drive from the motor, such as a peripheral gear 33a provided on the peripheral portion of the end face connecting portion 21. The rotation mechanism 30 can also rotate the barrels 10 via a rotation shaft 30a. The rotation mechanism 30 can rotate at a rotational speed that allows efficient plating of the workpiece 1. Note that the rotation mechanism 30 can also revolve the barrels 10 using, for example, a servo motor without using the rotation transmission portion 32. The rotation mechanism 30 can rotate at a constant speed in one direction, or can be equipped with a speed change mechanism that can change the rotational speed depending on the workpiece 1, the amount of plating solution 3, the plating solution 3, etc. Furthermore, the rotation direction can be periodically changed at a predetermined rotation speed, time, or central angle.

[0044] The rotation mechanism 30 rotates the multiple barrels 10, which are fixed and connected via the connecting portions 20, in the same rotational direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 1). This configuration allows multiple barrels 10 to rotate at the same rotational speed with one motor. This eliminates the need for separate motors, simplifies the structure, reduces costs, and allows the rotational position and rotational speed of each barrel to be determined.

[0045] The barrel plating apparatus 100 may have a movement mechanism that moves the barrel 10 between an immersion position where it is immersed in the plating solution 3 and a non-immersion position. The non-immersion position is a position where the barrel 10 is removed from the plating solution 3, for example, to move the barrel 10 to a different plating tank 2, for the next process such as a water washing process, or after the plating process is completed. (power supply 40)

[0046] The power supply 40 sets the workpiece 1 contained in the storage section 11 at a negative potential and the plating solution 3 at a positive potential. The power supply 40 is a DC power supply having negative and positive electrode terminals 40a, 40b. The barrel plating apparatus 100 includes an energization circuit 43 that supplies current to the workpiece 1, and the workpiece 1 is connected to the negative electrode terminal 40a of the power supply 40 via the energization circuit 43. The energization circuit 43 illustrated in FIG. 1 has conductive wires, such as flexible lead wires, arranged inside each barrel 10 to supply current to the workpiece 1. The negative electrode terminal 40a is connected to a cathode 41 via the energization circuit 43 and is electrically connected to the workpiece 1. The cathodes 41 are each positioned in contact with the workpiece 1 in the storage section 11, and the workpieces 1 that contact the cathodes 41 via the energization circuit 43 are set to a negative potential. Stacked workpieces 1 come into contact with each other, causing the stacked workpieces 1 to be at a negative potential, and the workpieces 1 constitute part of the energization circuit 43.

[0047] The current-carrying circuit 43 has one or more (four in FIG. 1 ) cathodes 41 in contact with the workpiece 1 and a cathode introduction portion 44 connected to the cathodes 41. The cathodes 41 can be made of, for example, a conductive metal plate or metal wire. The cathodes 41 in FIG. 1 are individually disposed in the housing portion 11 of each barrel 10. The cathode introduction portion 44 introduces the cathode 41 into the barrel 10 and connects the cathode 41 to the negative electrode terminal 40 of the power source 40. The cathode introduction portion 44 can be made of a conductive material such as a conductive metal plate or metal wire, and a conductive material such as a flexible conductive wire or plate can be disposed inside, with the surface entirely or partially covered with an insulating material such as resin (e.g., a lead wire). The cathode introduction portion 44 can be disposed along or embedded in the connecting portion 20.

[0048] The cathode introduction portion 44 illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 has connection portions 45 (46, 47) that electrically connect the separated cathode introduction portions 44. The connection portion 45 in the figure electrically connects the separated cathode introduction portion 44X on the power supply side and the cathode introduction portion 44Y on the cathode side. The connection portion 45 has two or more conductive members that are shaped to be connectable to each other, and is configured to maintain the contact and electrical connection between the multiple members. The connection portion 45 has multiple members that are rotatably connected, and can maintain the electrical connection between the multiple members while rotating partially or entirely. The connection portion 46 has a simple configuration in which, for example, a protrusion, convexity, or pin on one side is inserted into a receiving side on the other side and rotatably engaged, thereby realizing the engagement between the two and maintaining the connected state. The connecting portion 46 in FIG. 7 has a first connecting portion 46a that protrudes and engages with a second connecting portion 46b on the receiving side, engaging and connecting the first connecting portion 46a and the second connecting portion 46b so that they can rotate freely relative to each other. The shape, configuration, structure, connection, and engaging method of the connecting portion 45 are not specified. For example, the connecting portion 45 can be plate-shaped, grooved, uneven, have a constant width along the width of the orbit, rod-shaped, engaging, fitted, or clamped. A rotation-promoting member such as a bearing or ball bearing can be inserted to ensure smooth rotation. The surface of the connecting portion 45, like the cathode introduction portion 44, can be covered with an insulating member to prevent plating from adhering to the surface. It can also be embedded in the connecting portion 20, such as the end connecting portion 21 or the central connecting portion 22, or in the barrel 10.

[0049] The connecting portion 45 can connect the divided cathode introduction portions 44 while allowing the end face connecting portion 21 and the multiple barrels 10 to rotate freely. The connecting portion 45 can also prevent twisting and entanglement of the cathode introduction portions 44 arranged inside the rotating barrel 10, and can position the cathode introduction portions 44 within a predetermined position and range to prevent excessive load. Connecting the divided cathode introduction portions 44 via the connecting portion 45, which can electrically connect the cathode introduction portions 44 without causing entanglement or twisting, can prevent and reduce entanglement, twisting, and excessive load on the cathode introduction portions 44. In particular, when the cathode introduction portions 44 are inserted into the multiple barrels 10 and the barrels 10 are positioned away from the rotation axis 30a and revolve around the rotation axis 30a, particularly when the orbital path is long, the connecting portion 45 can solve the problem of entanglement, twisting, and excessive load on the cathode introduction portions 44 being more likely to occur than when a single barrel 10 rotates. One or more connection parts 45 may be provided. By arranging connection part 45 in a position where tangling and twisting of cathode introduction part 44 are likely to occur due to the revolution of multiple barrels 10, tangling and twisting of cathode introduction part 44 can be effectively prevented. In FIG. 7 , cathode introduction part 44 inserted into cylindrical body 30b that serves as rotation shaft 30a has connection part 46, which can prevent tangling and twisting of cathode introduction part 44 due to rotation of end face connecting part 21. Furthermore, by arranging connection part 46 inside housing part 11 of barrel 10, tangling and twisting of cathode introduction part 44 inserted into housing part 11 due to the revolution and rotation of barrel 10 can be prevented, and a posture with less stress can be maintained.

[0050] The connection portion 47 in FIG. 8 includes a first connection portion 47a connected to the cathode lead-in portion 44X on the power supply side, a second connection portion 47b connected to the cathode lead-in portion 44Y on the cathode side, and a locking portion 47c that rotatably connects and locks one or both of the first connection portion 47a and the second connection portion 47b. In the connection portion 47 in FIG. 8, the first connection portion 47a and the second connection portion 47b are two metal plates, each with a central through-hole through which the locking portion 47c can penetrate and lock. The first connection portion 47a and the second connection portion 47b can have a flat, plate-like, uneven, protruding, grooved, stepped, or cup-shaped configuration, and can further have a fitting, locking, or clamping structure that allows them to fit, lock, or clamp with each other. The first connection portion 47a and the second connection portion 47b are in surface contact, increasing the contact area, stabilizing the connection of the connection portion 47 and achieving a good connection state. The first connecting portion 47a in FIG. 8 has a circular shape that matches the rotation shaft 30a and is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 30a of the rotation shaft 30a, allowing it to be rotatably disposed within the rotation shaft 30a. The first connecting portion 47a and the second connecting portion 47b are wide ring-shaped, and the locking portion 47c has a flange that can be shaped to rotatably connect and lock the first connecting portion 47a and the second connecting portion 47b, for example, in an I-, T-, or L-shape, thereby clamping the first connecting portion 47a and the second connecting portion 47b and increasing the contact area. The second connecting portion 47b in FIG. 8 has a central through-hole, a wide ring-shaped shape that covers the orbit of the rotation shaft 30a, and has an inner exposed portion 47d that is exposed to the inner surface 10a of the end faces 10B and 10C of the barrel 10. The inner exposed portion 47d is connected to the cathode 41 via the cathode-side cathode introduction portion 44Y, preventing twisting and excessive load on the cathode-side cathode introduction portion 44Y. The first and second connection portions 47a and 47b of the connection portion 47 rotate together with the rotating shaft 30a, but the locking portion 47c is non-rotating, preventing twisting of the power supply-side cathode introduction portion 44X and maintaining a stable position within the rotating shaft 30a. Rotating the second connection portion 47b stabilizes the position and posture of the cathode-side cathode introduction portion 44Y in accordance with the posture of the revolving barrel 10, which is fixedly connected to the end face connecting portion 21. The connection portion 47 may have only one of the first connection portion 47a and the second connection portion 47b, or one of them may also serve as the locking portion 47c, or they may be integrated.

[0051] The barrel plating apparatus 100 of FIGS. 1 and 9 has one or more insertion portions 48 through which the cathode introduction portion 44 is inserted into the barrel 10. The insertion portion 48 penetrates the end surface connecting portion 21 and communicates with the housing portion 11, allowing the cathode introduction portion 44 and the cathode 41 to be inserted and disposed within each barrel 10. The insertion portion 48 is, for example, a through-hole, slit, or gap through which the cathode introduction portion 44 can be inserted and disposed, and penetrates the end surface connecting portion 21 and communicates with the housing portion 11. The insertion portion 48 can be provided on the rotating shaft 30a, the end surface connecting portion 21, the end surface portions 10B and 10C, or the cylindrical portion 10A of the barrel 10. One or more cathode introduction portions 44 can be inserted into the same insertion portion 48, or separate insertion portions 48 can be provided and each inserted through each. For example, in FIG. 1, one insertion portion 48 is provided in the cylindrical body 30b (rotation shaft 30a) of the end face connecting portion 21, and in FIG. 9, the cylindrical body 30b is provided with partitioned insertion portions 48. In the examples of FIGS. 1 and 9, the insertion portion 48 is provided in the cylindrical body 30b. The cylindrical body 30b is hollow and cylindrical (cylindrical), and the hollow portion serves as the insertion portion 48, which penetrates and passes through the end face connecting portion 21, and one or more cathode introduction portions 44 are inserted through it. If the barrel 10 is a separate member from the end face connecting portion 21, an insertion portion 48 is provided that communicates with the housing portion 11 of the barrel 10, such as the end face portion 10B or 10C. The insertion portion 48 of the cylindrical body 30b allows the multiple barrels 10 and the end face connecting portion 21 to rotate freely, while simplifying the structure for revolving, supporting, connecting, and inserting the multiple barrels 10. Furthermore, by arranging the cathode introduction portions 44 at predetermined positions and in predetermined orientations within the hollow portion, twisting and tangling of each other or with each other can be prevented, and excessive stress on the cathode introduction portions 44 can be prevented. In FIG. 9, the cylindrical body 30b is formed into a plurality of cylindrical bodies (four in FIG. 9) equal to or less than the number of barrels 10, and insertion portions 48 through which the cathode introduction portions 44 pass when inserted into each barrel 10 are provided separately and partitioned, thereby preventing twisting, tangling, and excessive stress on the cathode introduction portions 44. The cathode introduction portions 44 in FIGS. 1 and 9 are inserted into insertion portions 48 of the rotating shaft 30a and connect the negative electrode terminal 40a of the power source 40 to the cathode 41 disposed inside the barrel 10. Insertion portions 48 can also be provided on the outer edge or outer side of the rotating shaft 30a.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, the positive electrode terminal 40b of the power source 40 is connected to an anode 42 via a conductive member, and the anode 42 is immersed in the plating solution 3, causing the plating solution 3 to have a positive potential. A workpiece 1 at a negative potential is immersed in the positive plating solution 3, and metal ions in the plating solution 3 are adsorbed onto the workpiece 1 at the negative potential, resulting in plating deposition and buildup. One or more anodes 42 can be provided, and can be rod-shaped, plate-shaped, or have a shape and size that suits the device and barrel 10. Figure 2 shows two anodes 42 arranged on both sides outside the barrel 10. (Embodiment 2)

[0053] The barrel plating apparatus 200 in Fig. 10 has one or more barrels 10 rotatably connected to a rotation mechanism 30. The barrel plating apparatus 200 can rotate the barrels 10 about the central axis 16 of each barrel 10 while revolving the barrels 10 around the rotation axis 30a, thereby enjoying the benefits of both the revolution and rotation of the barrels 10. The description of other embodiments of the barrel plating apparatus 200 is applicable to the barrel plating apparatus 200 as long as it does not contradict the configuration. The same applies to the following embodiments.

[0054] The rotation mechanism 30 can be configured to rotate the barrels 10 independently and independently of each other. The rotation direction of the barrels 10 can be the same as or different from the revolution direction, and the rotation directions of multiple barrels 10 can be the same or different, and they can rotate at the same or different rotational speeds. The rotation mechanism 30 can have one or more motors, and for example, a motor for rotation that is separate from a motor for revolution can be provided. The motor for rotation can easily determine the rotation direction and rotational speed of each barrel 10.

[0055] Furthermore, the rotation of the multiple barrels 10 that revolve around them can be used to rotate the barrels 10 on their own axes. This configuration eliminates the need for a separate motor, simplifies the structure, reduces costs, and allows each rotation to correspond to the other, thereby determining the rotation position, rotation speed, and rotation direction. While the present disclosure does not specify the method, structure, or configuration of the rotation transmission unit 32, gear 33, or rotation, for example, in FIG. 10 , the motor rotates the end face coupling unit 21 via gear 33, peripheral gear 33a, etc., causing the multiple barrels 10 connected to the end face coupling unit 21 to revolve around them, and the rotation of the end face coupling unit 21 is utilized to rotate the barrels 10 on their own axes via the rotation transmission unit 32. While the configuration, number, and arrangement of the rotation transmission unit 32 and gear 33 are not specified, for example, the rotation transmission unit 32 in FIG. 10 includes a first gear 34a provided on the outer surface of the end face coupling unit 21 and a second gear 34b connected and fixed to the barrel 10. Rotation of the end face connecting portion 21 rotates the first gear 34a, which rotates the second gear 34b, causing the barrel 10 to rotate on its axis. In addition, for example, a gear 33 can be provided on the rotation shaft 30a. Furthermore, by utilizing the movement and rotation of the second gear 34b, which is connected and fixed to the barrel 10 that moves on its orbit, one or more rotation transmission portions 32 and gears 33 can be provided on the outside (the outer edge side of the end face connecting portion 21) or inside (the center side of the end face connecting portion 21) of the second gear 34b.

[0056] The rotation mechanism 30 in FIG. 10 can rotate multiple barrels 10 in a direction opposite to the revolution direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 10) (clockwise in FIG. 10). Rotation in the opposite direction can promote mixing and stirring of the workpieces 1 and increase the number, timing, and duration of exposure to the surface. The inner surface 10a of the barrel 10 can lift the workpieces 1 in a direction opposite to the revolution direction (counterclockwise) (left side). For example, as the barrel 10 moves from a lower position on the rotation axis 30a to a right position and then to an upper position, the workpieces 1 (lumps) can move forward while encountering significant resistance from the plating solution 3 on the surface that is approximately perpendicular to the direction of travel of the revolving barrel 10. Rotation can also further promote lifting, mixing, and stirring of the workpieces 1. Multiple barrels 10 can rotate in the same or different directions. Rotating in different directions can vary the lifting direction of the workpieces 1 in the storage section 11 of the barrel 10, thereby increasing the distance between the lumps of workpieces 1. (Embodiment 3)

[0057] In a barrel plating apparatus 300 illustrated in Figures 11 and 12, the barrel 10 is detachably connected to the rotation mechanism 30. This configuration allows the barrel 10 to be removed and the workpiece 1 to be easily loaded and unloaded. In addition, the barrel can be selected and replaced depending on the capacity, size, shape, etc. of the workpiece 1, and the barrel 10 can be replaced as needed for maintenance, repair, etc., thereby improving plating efficiency, productivity, and plating quality.

[0058] The barrel 10 and / or the connecting part 20 of the barrel plating apparatus 300 have a detachable part that positions the barrel 10 at a predetermined position and posture, and allows the barrel 10 and the connecting part 20 to be fitted, locked, clamped, attached, or connected by screwing, inserting, etc., and also allows the barrel 10 to be detached. This disclosure does not specify the structure, method, or direction of the detachment of the barrel 10. For example, the detachable part can release or release the connected state, such as locking, fitting, holding, or attached, of the barrel 10 at a predetermined posture or position. For example, the detachable part can set a stopper in an open position, and the parts that engage, connect, and attach can be made extendable and retractable, and the position and posture can be changed, allowing the barrel 10 to be detached. The barrel 10 and the connecting part 20 that have the detachable part can connect and fix the barrel 10 at a predetermined position and posture while allowing the barrel 10 to be detached. The detachable portion expands and contracts due to the elasticity of the spring, and the position and posture of the connection and joining are changed, so that the barrel 10 can be fitted, locked, inserted, clamped, held, supported, and detached.

[0059] The barrel plating apparatus 300 allows the connected barrel 10 to be removed, for example, between the end face connectors 21 at both ends, or by pulling it through the end face connectors 21. For example, the barrel 10 shown in FIG. 11 can be removed by first removing one of the ends 10B, 10C (or one end of the cylindrical portion 10A) from the end face connectors 21, and then removing the other end 10B, 10C (or the other end of the cylindrical portion 10A). This allows the barrel 10 to be removed in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 16 (rotation axis 30a) (up, down, sideways, etc.) or diagonally. Both ends 10B, 10C (or both ends of the cylindrical portion 10A) can also be removed simultaneously. The end face connectors 21 shown in FIG. 12 have openings 23 through which the barrel 10 passes, allowing the barrel 10 to be removed by pulling it through the openings 23. The opening 23 is slightly larger than the outer dimensions of the ends 10B, 10C, and the cylindrical portion 10A of the barrel 10, and the barrel 10 can be detached by inserting and withdrawing it through the opening 23 in the direction of the central axis 16. The barrel 10 can be pulled (removed) through the opening 23 and removed from the rotation mechanism 30. The barrel 10 is inserted into the opening 23 and connected to and fixed to the end face connecting portion 21 (rotation mechanism 30). The barrel 10 may have a handle on the end 10B on the opening 23 side, which facilitates the insertion and withdrawal of the barrel 10. The barrel 10 has a structure in which the end 10 on the opening 23 side is pushed using the elastic force of the detachment portion to pop the barrel 10 outward until it can be pulled out, thereby facilitating the insertion and withdrawal of the barrel 10. The barrel 10 may also have a button, lever, or the like for releasing the engagement and locking state with the connecting portion 20. End face connecting portion 21 may have a lid that closes opening 23, and one or both of end portions 10B, 10C may also serve as the lid. (Embodiment 4)

[0060] The barrel plating apparatus 400 of FIG. 13 includes a plating tank 2 filled with plating solution 3, multiple barrels 10 each having a storage section 11 for accommodating a workpiece 1 and each having a fluid passage opening 12 through which the plating solution 3 passes, an outer barrel 50 in which the multiple barrels 10 are disposed, and a rotation mechanism 30 having a rotation shaft 30a. The outer barrel 50 is connected to the multiple barrels 10 and the rotation mechanism 30, providing stable support and reinforcement for the multiple barrels 10 and improving the strength of the apparatus. The outer barrel 50 may be formed of wire, rod, mesh, plate, or the like, and has fluid passage openings. The fluid passage openings preferably have a greater number of openings and a larger opening area than the fluid passage openings 12 of the barrels 10, ensuring high fluid permeability, so as not to impede the inflow and outflow of the plating solution 3 into the multiple barrels 10 disposed therein. The rotation mechanism 30 rotates the outer barrel 50 on its axis and revolves the multiple barrels 10 connected to the outer barrel 50. Although the two anodes 42 are arranged on both sides outside the outer peripheral barrel 50 in FIG. 13, the anodes 42 may also be arranged inside the outer peripheral barrel 50.

[0061] The outer barrel 50 may have an outer circumferential housing section 51 for housing the workpieces 1. The outer circumferential housing section 51 is a spatial region formed within the outer barrel 50 outside the multiple barrels 10, and is surrounded by the outer surface 10b of the barrel 10 and the inner surface of the outer barrel 50. Housing the workpieces 1 in the outer circumferential housing section 51 increases the overall capacity of the workpieces 1. It also prevents or reduces damage caused by collisions or contact between the workpieces 1 in the multiple barrels 10 and the workpieces 1 in the outer circumferential housing section 51. The workpieces 1 can be mixed and stirred within the outer circumferential housing section 51. The presence of multiple barrels 10 also allows for mixing and stirring of the workpieces 1 within the outer circumferential housing section 51. Furthermore, a mass of workpieces 1 can be formed within the outer circumferential housing section 51, increasing the total surface area. The outer barrel 50 can be partially separated, divided, or opened to allow the workpieces 1 to be loaded and unloaded into the outer circumferential housing sections 51 of the multiple barrels 10. The example shown in FIG. 13 has an opening 53, which is opened and closed by a lid 54. [Industrial Applicability]

[0062] The present disclosure can be effectively used as a barrel plating apparatus that can achieve efficient plating, improve productivity, and improve plating quality. [Explanation of symbols]

[0063] 100, 200, 300, 400, 900...Barrel plating equipment 1...Work 2...Plating tank 3...Plating solution 6...Corner 10, 10X, 10Y, 10Z... barrel 10A...Cylindrical part 10B, 10C...end face part 10a...Inner surface 10b...outer surface 11...Storage section 12…Liquid passage opening 13...Opening 14...Opening and closing lid 16...Central axis 20...Connection part 21…End face connection part 22...Central connection part 23...Opening 30...Rotation mechanism 30a...Rotating shaft 30b...Cylindrical body 32...Rotation transmission part 33...Gear 33a...peripheral gear 34a...1st gear 34b...2nd gear 40…Power supply 40a...Negative electrode terminal 40b...Positive electrode terminal 41...Cathode 42...Anode 43...Electrified circuit 44...Cathode introduction part 44X...Cathode lead-in part on the power supply side 44Y: Cathode introduction part on the cathode side 45, 46, 47...Connections 46a...First connection part 46b...Second connection part 47a...First connection part 47b...Second connection part 47c…Locking part 47d...Inner surface 48...Passage part 50...Outer barrel 50A...Cylindrical part 50B, 50C...end face part 51...Outer casing 53...Opening 54...Opening and closing lid

Claims

1. a plating tank filled with a plating solution; a plurality of barrels each having a storage portion for storing a workpiece and provided with a liquid passage opening through which the plating solution passes; a rotation mechanism that rotates the plurality of barrels, The plurality of barrels include: A barrel plating device disposed outside the rotation shaft of the rotation mechanism.

2. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 1, The barrel plating apparatus includes a plurality of barrels, each of which is spaced apart from the other adjacent barrels.

3. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 1, The barrel plating device has a central connecting portion that connects the plurality of barrels in a central region including the rotation shaft.

4. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 1, Further, a peripheral barrel is provided to accommodate a plurality of the barrels, The outer barrel is connected to the plurality of barrels and the rotation mechanism, The rotating mechanism rotates the plurality of barrels together with the outer barrel.

5. The barrel plating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A barrel plating device having an end face connecting portion that connects the end faces of the plurality of barrels to the rotation mechanism.

6. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 5, The end face connecting portion has a connection adjustment portion that can adjust the position at which the barrel is connected.

7. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 5, The barrel is detachably connected to the rotation mechanism.

8. The barrel plating apparatus according to claim 7, the end surface connecting portion has an opening through which the barrel is inserted, The detachable barrel is inserted into the opening and connected to the rotation mechanism, The barrel plating device is removable from the rotation mechanism by being removed from the opening.

Images