Exchange device

Abstract

To provide an exchange device which can be built with a small installation area.SOLUTION: An exchange device Q includes: a storage section capable of storing masks M in an upright state in which a major surface of each mask M is in an upright position; a holding section which holds the mask M in a manner that allows the mask M to rotate forward and rearward relative to a print section 10 and lifts up the held mask M to an upright height H2; a contact sensor 90 which detects a position of the mask M lifted up by the holding section; and a determination section which determines, based on a detection result of the contact sensor 90, whether or not the mask M is in the upright position in which the mask M can be stored in the storage section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a replacement device that supplies replacement parts to a screen printing device. [Background technology]

[0002] A screen printing apparatus prints a paste such as solder paste onto the surface of a substrate using a mask having a printing pattern. In such a screen printing apparatus, the mask to be used is changed depending on the type of substrate. Patent Document 1 discloses a screen printing apparatus equipped with a mask changer (exchange device) configured to allow continuous and automatic mask change to be performed, in which a magazine (storage unit) holding multiple masks (exchange members) horizontally is configured to be freely raised and lowered within a housing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-107329 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the prior art including Patent Document 1, the replacement device holds large replacement parts horizontally, which makes the replacement device large, and there are problems in that in order to replace the replacement parts, it is necessary to secure additional space behind the replacement device so that the replacement parts can be inserted and removed horizontally.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an exchange device that can be realized with a small installation area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The replacement device disclosed herein is an replacement device that supplies replacement parts to a printing device that prints paste on a substrate using a mask with a predetermined printing pattern, and recovers the replacement parts from the printing device, and is equipped with a storage unit that can store the replacement parts with their main surfaces upright, a holding unit that holds the replacement parts so that they can be rotated back and forth relative to the printing device and lifts the held replacement parts to a predetermined height, a posture detection unit that detects the posture of the replacement parts lifted by the holding unit, and a determination unit that determines whether the replacement parts are in a posture that allows them to be stored in the storage unit based on the detection result by the posture detection unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it can be realized with a small installation area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a screen printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective side view showing a configuration of a main part of a replacement unit and a printing unit to which a storage unit is attached according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] (a) A perspective plan view showing the configuration of the main parts of the replacement part to which the storage part of one embodiment of the present disclosure is attached, (b) A perspective rear view showing the configuration of the main parts of the replacement part to which the storage part of one embodiment of the present disclosure is attached. [Figure 4] FIG. 1A is a perspective plan view illustrating the function of an exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is a perspective rear view illustrating the function of an exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are enlarged plan views illustrating the configuration of a holding mechanism of a holding part included in a replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are enlarged plan views illustrating the configuration of a contact sensor included in the replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A is an explanatory diagram of the holding position of a holding portion provided in a replacement unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram of the function of a guide portion provided in a replacement unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 8] FIG. 1A is a side view illustrating the function of a contact sensor included in a replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is a plan view illustrating the function of a contact sensor included in a replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1A is a side view illustrating the function of a contact sensor included in a replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is a plan view illustrating the function of a contact sensor included in a replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a screen printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are explanatory views of a process of recovering a mask from a printing unit by a replacement unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1A is an explanatory diagram of a process of recovering a mask from a printing unit by an exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram of a process of supplying a mask to a printing unit by an exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process of supplying a mask to a printing unit by an exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 10(a) and 10(b) are explanatory views of a process for removing the storage unit from the replacement unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 10A is a side view illustrating another example of a guide portion included in the replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10B is a side view illustrating another example of a contact sensor included in the replacement part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 16] FIG. 10A is a perspective plan view illustrating a replacement part having an optical sensor according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 10B is a perspective rear view illustrating a replacement part having an optical sensor according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the function of an optical sensor according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The configurations, shapes, etc. described below are examples for the purpose of explanation and can be modified as appropriate depending on the specifications of the screen printing device, replacement device, printing unit, replacement unit, storage unit, etc. In the following, corresponding elements in all drawings will be given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0010] 1 and some parts described later, two axes that are orthogonal to each other in a horizontal plane are shown: an X axis in the substrate transport direction (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 2) and a Y axis that is orthogonal to the substrate transport direction (a left-right direction in FIG. 2). Also, in FIG. 1 and some parts described later, a Z axis that is orthogonal to the horizontal plane (a up-down direction in FIG. 2) is shown.

[0011] First, the configuration of the screen printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The screen printing apparatus 1 is configured to include a printing unit 10 that performs printing operations, an exchange unit 30 that supplies exchange members such as masks M to the printing unit 10 and collects the exchange members from the printing unit 10, and a storage unit 70 that can store the masks M (exchange members) and is detachably provided with respect to the exchange unit 30.

[0012] Located behind the printing unit 10 is an exchange unit 30 that supplies masks M to the printing unit 10 (printing device) and collects the masks M from the printing unit 10. A storage unit 70 that stores the masks M (replacement parts) is detachably attached to the exchange unit 30. Details of the exchange unit 30 and the storage unit 70 will be described later. The mask M is configured by extending a screen Ms on which a predetermined printing pattern (not shown) is formed on a frame Mf. The printing unit 10 functions as a printing device that prints a paste P, such as cream solder, on a substrate B using the mask M on which the predetermined printing pattern is formed.

[0013] In FIG. 2, the printing unit 10 includes a substrate transport and holding unit 13 on a base 12 covered by a printing unit cover 11. The substrate transport and holding unit 13 has a conveyor 13a that transports a substrate B along the X axis. The substrate transport and holding unit 13 includes a multi-stage table 13b that is disposed on the base 12 below the center of the conveyor 13a in the X axis direction, and a substrate holding unit 13c that is supported by the multi-stage table 13b. The multi-stage table 13b moves the substrate holding unit 13c in the X axis direction and the Y axis direction (horizontal direction), and raises and lowers the substrate holding unit 13c in the Z axis direction (up and down direction). The substrate holding unit 13c receives the substrate B transported by the conveyor 13a, and lifts and holds the received substrate B from the conveyor 13a.

[0014] 2, a mask transport unit 14 extending along the Y axis (front-rear direction) is disposed above the substrate transport and holding unit 13. On the mask transport unit 14, the mask M, which is placed with the screen Ms (the main surface of the exchange member) stretched across a frame Mf in a horizontal position, moves back and forth along the Y axis. A mask holding unit 14a is disposed in front of the mask transport unit 14 and above the substrate holding unit 13c.

[0015] Above the mask transport unit 14, there is disposed a mask moving unit 15 which includes a contact member 16, an elevation cylinder 17 which raises and lowers the contact member 16 up and down (arrow a), and a front-to-back movement mechanism 18 (FIG. 10) which moves the elevation cylinder 17 back and forth (arrow b) along the mask transport unit 14. The mask moving unit 15 brings the lowered contact member 16 into contact with the frame Mf of the mask M, and moves the mask M back and forth along the mask transport unit 14.

[0016] In Figure 2, a rear opening 19 is formed on the rear side of the printing unit cover 11. An opening 32 (see also Figure 3(b)) is formed on the front side of the housing 31 of the replacement unit 30, through which the mask M (replacement member) can pass and which communicates with the interior of the printing unit 10 (printing device). The mask moving unit 15 moves the mask M between the replacement unit 30 and the mask holding unit 14a via the rear opening 19 and the opening 32. The mask M that has moved to the mask holding unit 14a is held by a holding mechanism (not shown) of the mask holding unit 14a with the main surface of the mask M horizontal.

[0017] A print head 20 is disposed above the mask holding unit 14a and is moved along the Y-axis by a print head moving mechanism 24 (FIG. 10). The print head 20 extends along the X-axis and has two squeegees 20a that move up and down. With the substrate B held by the substrate holding unit 13c pressed from below against the mask M held by the mask holding unit 14a, the print head 20 lowers one of the squeegees 20a to abut on the mask M. The print head moving mechanism 24 then moves the print head 20 in the Y-axis direction and slides one of the squeegees 20a over the mask M, thereby printing the paste P supplied onto the mask M onto the substrate B via the printing pattern (openings) formed in the mask M.

[0018] 1 and 2, the printing unit 10 is equipped with an air conditioning unit 81 (FIG. 10) that supplies temperature- and humidity-controlled air to the interior of the printing unit 10 via a duct 80 connected to an air intake port 11a formed in the upper part of the printing unit cover 11. The printing unit 10 also has an exhaust unit 82 that has a blower that exhausts air from the interior of the printing unit 10 to the outside through an exhaust port 11b formed in the lower part of the printing unit cover 11. By controlling the amount of air exhausted by the exhaust unit 82 (exhaust volume), the air pressure inside the printing unit 10 is maintained higher than that outside the printing unit 10. This prevents air (outside air) whose temperature and humidity have not been adjusted from flowing into the interior of the printing unit 10.

[0019] Next, the replacement unit 30 and the storage unit 70 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the rear side of the replacement unit 30 is provided with an attachment opening 33 into which the storage unit 70 is inserted from the rear side. The storage unit 70 has a slot portion 73 having a plurality of bottomed slots 71 to 72 for storing the mask M. The slots 71 to 72 can store the mask M with the main surface of the mask M (replacement member) standing upright. The depth L1 of the slots 71 to 72 is shallower than the length L2 of the main surface of the mask M. As a result, the mask M stored in the slots 71 to 72 is in a state in which a portion of the mask M protrudes from the upper part of the slots 71 to 72.

[0020] A back panel 74 is disposed behind the slot portion 73, and extends at least above and to the left and right of the slot portion 73. Wheels 75 are provided on the bottom of the storage unit 70. This allows the storage unit 70 to be moved on the floor F within the floor on which the printing unit 10 is installed by a worker or an automated guided vehicle (not shown). The replacement unit 30 is formed with a storage space 34 in which the slot portion 73 of the storage unit 70 inserted through the mounting opening 33 is positioned.

[0021] Next, the detailed configuration of the replacement unit 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6. Here, the replacement unit 30 with the storage unit 70 attached will be described. Hereinafter, the replacement unit 30 with the storage unit 70 attached will be referred to as the "replacement device Q." In addition, hereinafter, when the storage unit 70 is attached to the replacement unit 30, the front slot 71 of the slot section 73 will be referred to as the "front slot Sf," and the rear slot 72 will be referred to as the "rear slot Sb." The replacement device Q has the function of supplying replacement parts (masks M) to the printing device (printing unit 10) and collecting replacement parts from the printing device.

[0022] 2 and 3, a holder 39 is disposed inside the housing 31 of the replacement unit 30. The holder 39 holds the mask M (replacement component) stored in the front slot Sf or the rear slot Sb of the slot 73 of the storage unit 70 attached to the replacement unit 30 so that the mask M can rotate relative to the printing unit 10 (printing device), and moves the held mask M along the Z axis to lift it to a predetermined height. Hereinafter, the main surface of the mask M held by the holder 39 and standing upright is referred to as the "first surface Mp1" and the main surface facing the printing unit 10 is referred to as the "second surface Mp2" (see FIGS. 4 and 7).

[0023] The holding unit 39 has multiple (two in this example) pairs of holding mechanisms that correspond to multiple (two in this example) slots (front slots Sf, rear slots Sb) and grip both sides of the frame Mf of the mask M to hold the mask M. Hereinafter, the holding mechanism that corresponds to the front slot Sf on the front side (the side closer to the printing unit 10) will be referred to as the "front holding mechanism 40," and the holding mechanism that corresponds to the rear slot Sb on the rear side will be referred to as the "rear holding mechanism 41."

[0024] 3 and 4, the front holding mechanism 40 and the rear holding mechanism 41 are arranged side by side in the front and rear along the Y axis on a lifting plate 42. The lifting plate 42 is provided so as to be able to move up and down along a linear guide 43 that extends vertically (in the Z axis direction) and is fixed to the housing 31. A nut 44 is fixed to the lifting plate 42. A ball screw 45 that extends vertically is engaged with the nut 44. The ball screw 45 is rotated around the Z axis by a lifting motor 46 that is fixed to the housing 31.

[0025] The lifting motor 46 is controlled by an exchange control unit 60 (FIG. 10) provided in the exchange unit 30. When the lifting motor 46 rotates the ball screw 45, the lifting plate 42 moves up and down (arrow d in FIG. 4), and the front holding mechanism 40 and the rear holding mechanism 41 move up and down.

[0026] Here, the detailed configurations and functions of the front holding mechanism 40 and the rear holding mechanism 41 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5(a) is a view seen from the arrow A1 of one (left) side of the front holding mechanism 40 and the rear holding mechanism 41 indicated by the circle A in Fig. 3(a) and their vicinity. Fig. 5(b) is a view seen from the arrow C1 of one (left) side of the front holding mechanism 40 and the rear holding mechanism 41 indicated by the circle C in Fig. 4(a) and their vicinity. Fig. 4 shows a state in which the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 hold a mask M (replacement member) stored upright in the rear slot Sb of the slot portion 73 and lift it up to a rotation height H5 (see Fig. 13(a)) described later.

[0027] The other (right) front holding mechanism 40 and rear holding mechanism 41 have the same configuration as the other (left) front holding mechanism 40 and rear holding mechanism 41, except that the components are arranged symmetrically with respect to the front slot Sf and rear slot Sb, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0028] 5, the front holding mechanism 40 includes a front cylinder 47 having a piston connected to a joint 49 at its tip that can be extended and retracted toward the front slot Sf. The rear holding mechanism 41 includes a rear cylinder 48 having a piston 48a connected to a joint 49 at its tip that can be extended and retracted toward the rear slot Sb. A shaft 50 extending along the X-axis is attached to each joint 49 so as to be rotatable about the X-axis. A locking portion 50a provided at the end of the shaft 50 is held in an internal space 49a of the joint 49 so as to be movable within a play G.

[0029] The shaft 50 is held by a rotary bearing 51 so as to be rotatable about the X-axis and movable back and forth along the X-axis. A pad 52 that abuts against the frame body Mf of the mask M is connected to the end of the shaft 50 opposite the locking portion 50a side. A compression spring 53, which is an elastic body, is inserted into the shaft 50 and disposed between the rotary bearing 51 and the pad 52. The elastic force of the compression spring 53 urges the shaft 50 toward the front slot Sf or the rear slot Sb. The front cylinder 47 and the rear cylinder 48 are controlled by a replacement control unit 60.

[0030] 4 and 5(b), when the rear cylinder 48 of each of the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 protrudes the piston 48a, the shaft 50 is pushed by the joint 49 and moves toward the rear slot Sb, and the pads 52 of each shaft 50 come into contact with both side surfaces of the mask M housed in the rear slot Sb. As a result, both side surfaces of the mask M are held by the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41. The mask M is stably held by the elastic force of the compression springs 53 of the rear holding mechanisms 41. In this way, the front cylinder 47 and the rear cylinder 48 constitute a holding member drive unit E (drive unit) (FIG. 10) that moves the pads 52, which are holding members that hold the mask M (replacement member), toward the mask M.

[0031] When the mask M held by the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 is placed in the rear slot Sb, the pistons 48a of the rear cylinders 48 are retracted, and the pair of pads 52 move away from both sides of the mask M, thereby releasing the mask M. As a result, the mask M is stored in the rear slot Sb.

[0032] In Figure 4(b), while the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 are holding the mask M, the lifting motor 46 is operated to raise and lower the lifting plate 42 (arrow d), whereby the mask M is removed from the rear slot Sb, raised and lowered within the housing 31, and stored in the rear slot Sb.

[0033] Similarly, when the front cylinders 47 of the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 extend their pistons while the mask M is stored in the front slot Sf, both end surfaces of the mask M are gripped by the pair of front holding mechanisms 40. When the mask M held by the front holding mechanisms 40 lands in the front slot Sf and each front cylinder 47 retracts its piston, the pair of pads 52 move away from both side surfaces of the mask M, releasing the mask M. When the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 grip the mask M, the lift motor 46 is operated to lift and lower the lift plate 42, whereby the mask M is removed from the front slot Sf, lifted up and down within the housing 31, and stored in the front slot Sf.

[0034] 5, guide connecting members 58 extending along the X-axis direction are connected to the joints 49 of the pair of front cylinders 47, respectively. Similarly, guide connecting members 58 extending along the X-axis direction are connected to the joints 49 of the pair of rear cylinders 48, respectively. A guide portion 59 is connected to each guide connecting member 58. The guide portion 59 protrudes toward the slot portion 73 beyond the pad 52 and has an abutment surface 59a that abuts against the first surface Mp1 of the mask M (replacement member) that is held by the holding portion 39 and lifted to a predetermined height so as to stand upright.

[0035] When the front cylinder 47 or the rear cylinder 48 extends or retracts its piston, the joint 49 moves in the X-axis direction, and the pad 52 and the guide portion 59 move together in the X-direction. That is, the pair of holding member driving units E (the pair of front cylinders 47 and the pair of rear cylinders 48) move the respective pads 52 (holding members) and the guide portions 59 in conjunction with each other. Note that the guide portions 59 do not need to be arranged as a pair, and a configuration in which only one of them is arranged may be used.

[0036] 7 and 11, the function of the guide unit 59 will be described. When the exchange device Q retrieves a mask M (exchangeable component) from the printing unit 10 (printing device), the guide unit 59 (first guide unit) has the function of putting the mask M, which has been discharged with its main surface horizontal along the mask transport unit 14 of the printing unit 10, into an upright position (hereinafter simply referred to as the "upright position") that allows it to be stored in the storage unit 70. Specifically, the guide unit 59 puts the mask M into an upright position by bringing the contact surface 59a into contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M, which has been discharged with its main surface horizontal from the printing unit 10 at the mask transport height H1 and which has been held by the holding unit 39 and raised to the upright height H2.

[0037] In Figures 7(a) and 11, the replacement control unit 60 of the replacement device Q controls the position (hereinafter referred to as the "holding position R") at which the pad 52 (holding member) of the holding unit 39 holds the mask M discharged from the printing unit 10 to a predetermined position, in order to abut the guide unit 59 against the mask M lifted to the standing height H2 and put the mask M in an upright position.

[0038] Specifically, the holding position R is set to a shift holding position Rs that is parallel to the main surface (first surface Mp1 or second surface Mp2) of the frame Mf having a predetermined thickness W and is shifted toward the first surface Mp1 from a plane Vp that passes through the center of gravity V of the mask M (exchange member). That is, when holding the mask M discharged from the printing unit 10, the exchange control unit 60 controls the lift motor 46 so that the height of the pad 52 is at a mask transport height H1 that holds the shift holding position Rs below the plane Vp that passes through the center of gravity V of the mask M in a horizontal position.

[0039] Here, with reference to Figure 7(a), the effect of the holder 39 holding the mask M (replacement member) in the shift holding position Rs will be described. Figure 7(a) shows a state in which the holder 39 holds the shift holding position Rs and lifts the mask M to the standing position H6 without the guide unit 59. By holding the shift holding position Rs, which is shifted toward the first surface Mp1 from the plane Vp passing through the center of gravity V of the mask M, the mask M comes to rest in a balanced position with its lower end rotated toward the first surface Mp1 (the opposite side from the printing unit 10).

[0040] Figure 7(b) shows a state in which the holding member driving unit E moves the pad 52 and guide unit 59 in the X-axis direction at the mask transport height H1, the holding unit 39 holds the mask M discharged from the printing unit 10 in a horizontal position, and the lifting motor 46 raises the pad 52 and guide unit 59 (arrow e), lifting the held mask M to the standing height H2.

[0041] The guide section 59 is disposed below the holding position R and on the opposite side (first surface Mp1 side) from the printing section 10. As a result, when the pad 52 holds the mask M in a horizontal position at the mask transport height H1, the guide section 59 is below the mask M and does not interfere with the mask M. As the pad 52 moves from the mask transport height H1 to the standing height H2, the lower end of the mask M held by the pad 52 rotates to the opposite side from the printing section 10. While the pad 52 moves from the mask transport height H1 to the standing height H2, the guide section 59 is located away from the first surface Mp1 of the mask M, whose lower end has rotated toward the printing section 10 (second surface Mp2 side), and does not interfere with the mask M.

[0042] When the pad 52 moves to the standing height H2, the contact surface 59a of the guide portion 59 comes into contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M, and the mask M assumes an upright position. As the pad 52 maintains the shift holding position Rs, a force is generated in the mask M that moves the first surface Mp1 toward the contact surface 59a of the guide portion 59. This force causes the first surface Mp1 of the mask M to abut against the contact surface 59a of the guide portion 59, thereby more reliably positioning the mask M in an upright position. In this way, the guide portion 59 (first guide portion) is located below the holding position R and in a position where it abuts against the first surface Mp1 of the replacement part (mask M) on the side opposite the printing unit 10 (printing device) that has been lifted to a predetermined height (standing height H2).

[0043] 3 and 4, above each pair of holding mechanisms (front holding mechanism 40, rear holding mechanism 41), a contact sensor 90 is disposed, which is a posture detection unit that detects the posture of the mask M (replacement member) lifted by the holding unit 39. The contact sensor 90 moves up and down in conjunction with the holding mechanism by the lifting motor 46 of the holding unit 39. Note that it is not necessary to dispose two contact sensors 90, and a configuration in which only one of them is disposed may also be used.

[0044] Here, the detailed configuration of the contact sensor 90 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6(a) is a view seen from the arrow A2 in the vicinity of one (left) contact sensor 90 indicated by the circle A' in Fig. 3(a). Fig. 6(b) is a view seen from the arrow C2 in the vicinity of one (left) contact sensor 90 indicated by the circle C' in Fig. 4(a). Fig. 4 shows a state in which the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 hold the mask M (replacement member) stored upright in the rear slot Sb and lift it up to a rotation height H5, activating the contact sensor 90. The other (right) contact sensor 90 has the same configuration as the one (left) contact sensor 90 except that the components are arranged symmetrically with respect to the front slot Sf and the rear slot Sb, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0045] 6, the contact sensor 90 includes a detection cylinder 91 having a piston 91a, the piston 91a having a first connecting member 92 extending along the X-axis direction connected to its tip, which can be extended and retracted toward the slot portion 73. A second connecting member 93, which branches into two branches in the front and rear directions in the Y-axis direction, is connected to the tip of the first connecting member 92. At the two tips of the branched second connecting member 93, a front detecting member 94f is disposed on the front side in the Y-axis direction, and a rear detecting member 94b is disposed on the rear side. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the front detecting member 94f and the rear detecting member 94b, they will be simply referred to as "detecting members 94."

[0046] 6(b) shows a state in which the contact sensor 90 is activated when the mask M (replacement member) held by the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 is in an upright position. When the contact sensor 90 is activated, the detection cylinder 91 (drive unit) protrudes the piston 91a. As a result, the rear detection member 94b moves to a position where it abuts against the first surface Mp1 of the mask M.

[0047] Similarly, the front detection member 94f moves to a position where it abuts against the first surface Mp1 of the upright mask M held by the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41. That is, the contact sensor 90 has a detection member 94 that can be moved by a drive unit (detection cylinder 91) to a position where it abuts against the main surface (first surface Mp1) of the upright replacement member (mask M) that can be stored in the storage unit 70, on the side opposite to the printing unit 10.

[0048] 6, the contact sensor 90 includes a position detection unit 95 that detects the position at which the moved detection member 94 stops. The position detection unit 95 detects whether the detection member 94 was able to move at least to a position where it abuts against the first surface Mp1 or not. The position detection unit 95 detects the position at which the detection member 94 stops by detecting, for example, the position of the first connecting member 92 moved by the detection cylinder 91 or the position of the piston 91a protruding from the detection cylinder 91.

[0049] 8 and 9, detection of the posture of the mask M (replacement member) by the contact sensor 90 will be described. The contact sensor 90 (posture detection unit) has a function of detecting whether the posture of the mask M (replacement member) lifted to the standing height H2 by the holding unit 39 is an upright posture that allows it to be stored in the slots (front slot Sf, rear slot Sb) of the slot unit 73 of the storage unit 70. The detection member 94 of the contact sensor 90 is located above the holding position R and on the opposite side from the printing unit 10 (first surface Mp1 side).

[0050] 8 shows a state in which the detection cylinder 91 (drive unit) of the contact sensor 90 moves the detection member 94 (indicated by arrow f1) relative to the mask M, which is in an upright position with the guide unit 59 (first guide unit) in contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M. When the mask M held by the holder 39 is in an upright position, the detection member 94 moves and stops beyond the frame Mf held by the pad 52. In this state, the detection member 94 stops in contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M. The position detector 95 then detects that the detection member 94 has moved to and stopped at the upright detection position U1.

[0051] Furthermore, the detection member 94, which has come into contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M and stopped, prevents the tip of the mask M from rotating toward the printing unit 10. Therefore, when the mask M, which is held by the pad 52 and in an upright position at upright height H2 with the guide portion 59 and the detection member 94 in contact with the first surface Mp1, is lowered by the lift motor 46 in conjunction with the pad 52, the guide portion 59, and the detection member 94 to a landing height H3 ( FIG. 12(a) ) at which it lands in the slot, the mask M is prevented from rotating and assuming a non-upright position in which it cannot be stored in the slot.

[0052] In this way, the detection member 94 of the contact sensor 90 is provided at a position spaced above the holding position R and in contact with the surface (first surface Mp1) of the replacement member (mask M) lifted to a predetermined height (standing height H2) on the side opposite the printing unit 10, and also functions as a second guide portion that prevents the mask M from rotating by contacting the first surface Mp1 of the mask M. The second guide portion is provided at a position facing the first guide portion (guide portion 59) across the holding position R.

[0053] 9 shows the state of the mask M in which the leading edge of the mask M has rotated toward the printing unit 10 and stopped, making it unable to be stored in the slot of the storage unit 70. In this state, the guide unit 59 is not in contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M. When the detection cylinder 91 (drive unit) of the contact sensor 90 moves the detection member 94 (arrow f2) toward the mask M in the non-standing position, the detection member 94 comes into contact with the frame Mf held by the pad 52 and stops. The position detection unit 95 then detects that the detection member 94 has moved to and stopped at a non-standing detection position U2, which is located before the standing detection position U1.

[0054] In this way, when the detection member 94 moves to and stops at the upright detection position U1, the mask M is determined to be in an upright position (FIG. 8). On the other hand, when the detection member 94 moves to and stops at the non-upright detection position U2, the mask M is determined to be in a non-upright position (FIG. 9). In other words, the contact sensor 90 is a position detection unit that detects the position of the replacement member (mask M) by bringing a part (the detection member 94) into contact with the replacement member (mask M) lifted by the holder 39.

[0055] The contact sensor 90 of this embodiment has a drive unit (detection cylinder 91) and a detection member 94 that can be moved by the drive unit to a position where it abuts against the main surface (first surface Mp1) of an exchange member (mask M) in an upright position that can be stored in the storage unit 70, and detects the position of the exchange member based on the position (upright detection position U1, non-upright detection position U2) where the detection member 94, moved by the drive unit toward the exchange member lifted by the holding unit 39, stops.

[0056] 2 and 3, a swinging unit 54 is disposed inside the housing 31 of the replacement unit 30 (replacement device Q), which swings the mask M (replacement member) lifted to a predetermined position (rotation height H5) toward the printing unit 10 (printing device) and places a portion of the mask M into the printing unit 10. The swinging unit 54 has a swinging motor 56. The swinging motor 56 is disposed on a fixed plate 55 fixed to the housing 31, with its rotation shaft 56a facing the X-axis direction. A crank-shaped pusher 57 is connected to the rotation shaft 56a of the swinging motor 56. The swinging motor 56 is controlled by the replacement control unit 60. When the swinging motor 56 is activated, the pusher 57 rotates (arrow c in FIG. 2).

[0057] The fixed plate 55 and the swing motor 56 of the swing unit 54 are positioned so as not to interfere with the lifting plate 42 of the holder 39, which moves up and down. The pusher 57 is shaped so as not to interfere with the lifting plate 42 of the holder 39, which moves up and down, when it rotates to the retracted position (see FIG. 3(a)). The pusher 57 also extends along the X-axis to a position where it abuts against the first surface Mp1 of the mask M held and lifted by the holder 39. When the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 or rear holding mechanisms 41 grips the mask M and lifts it up to a predetermined position (pivoting height H5), the swing motor 56 swings the pusher 57 from the retracted position toward the printing unit 10, whereupon the pusher 57 abuts against the back surface of the mask M and swings the mask M toward the printing unit 10 (see FIG. 13).

[0058] 2, a shutter unit 37 is disposed on the front side (printing unit 10 side) of the replacement unit 30. The shutter unit 37 is made up of a plate member or the like that moves up and down by a shutter drive unit 38 (FIG. 10) and covers the opening 32. When the shutter drive unit 38 moves the shutter unit 37 down to a closed position Hs1 (FIG. 14(b)), the opening 32 is covered by the shutter unit 37, restricting access from the replacement unit 30 to the inside of the printing unit 10. When the shutter drive unit 38 moves the shutter unit 37 up to an open position Hs2 (FIG. 14(a)), the opening 32 is opened, allowing access from the replacement unit 30 to the inside of the printing unit 10.

[0059] In this way, the shutter drive unit 38 moves the shutter unit 37 between a closed position Hs1 that covers the opening 32 and an open position Hs2 that opens the opening 32. When the opening 32 is closed by the shutter unit 37, it is possible to prevent an operator from accidentally inserting their hand or the like into the printing unit 10 through the installation opening 33 when the storage unit 70 is not installed in the replacement unit 30. Furthermore, when the opening 32 is closed by the shutter unit 37, it is possible to prevent outside air, the temperature and humidity of which have not been adjusted, from flowing in through the rear opening 19 of the printing unit 10.

[0060] Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the configuration of the control system of the printing unit 10 (printing device) and the replacement unit 30 (replacement device Q) to which the storage unit 70 is attached will be described. Note that, for the printing unit 10, the portions related to the mask replacement operation will be mainly described. The print control unit 21 provided in the printing unit 10 is connected to the lifting cylinder 17 and front-rear movement mechanism 18 of the mask movement unit 15, the air conditioning unit 81, the exhaust unit 82, and the receiving unit 25. The print control unit 21 is equipped with a print processing unit 22 and a print memory unit 23. The receiving unit 25 is a communication interface, and receives various information transmitted from the replacement unit 30 via a signal line 26.

[0061] The print storage unit 23 is realized by, for example, a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The print storage unit 23 stores information about replacement parts such as the mask M transported by the storage unit 70 and supplied by the replacement unit 30, and information about the substrate B on which the paste P is printed. The processing units such as the print processing unit 22 are realized by, for example, a memory that stores control programs executed by each processing unit, and a processor that executes the control programs. The print processing unit 22 executes a replacement process for the mask M used in the printing operation based on the various information stored in the print storage unit 23.

[0062] 10, the exchange control unit 60 provided in the exchange unit 30 is connected to the touch panel 36, the shutter drive unit 38, the lift motor 46 of the holding unit 39, the front cylinder 47, the rear cylinder 48, the swing motor 56 of the swing unit 54 (position change unit), the detection cylinder 91 of the contact sensor 90, the position detection unit 95, and the transmission unit 63. The exchange control unit 60 is equipped with an exchange processing unit 61, an exchange memory unit 62, and a determination unit 64. The transmission unit 63 is a communication interface, and transmits various information to the printing unit 10 via the signal line 26.

[0063] The exchange storage unit 62 is realized by, for example, a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), etc. The exchange storage unit 62 stores information about exchange parts such as the masks M that are transported by the storage unit 70 and supplied to the printing unit 10, and that are received from the printing unit 10 and stored in the storage unit 70. The exchange processing unit 61 is realized by, for example, a memory that stores a control program executed by the exchange processing unit 61, and a processor that executes the control program.

[0064] In Figure 10, the replacement processing unit 61 performs various processes based on various information stored in the replacement memory unit 62, such as a supply process that supplies a mask M (replacement part) to the printing unit 10, a recovery process that recovers the mask M from the printing unit 10, and an attitude determination process that determines the attitude of the mask M to be stored in the storage unit 70.

[0065] 11 and 12, a description will be given of a replacement component recovery method (recovery process) in which the replacement device Q (replacement unit 30) recovers the mask M1 (replacement component) from the printing unit 10 (printing device), as well as control by the print control unit 21 and the replacement control unit 60. Here, an example will be described in which the replacement device Q recovers the mask M1 from the printing unit 10 and stores it in the front slot Sf of the storage unit 70.

[0066] First, the replacement processing unit 61 of the replacement control unit 60 controls the lifting motor 46 of the holding unit 39 to move the height of the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 to the mask transport height H1 at which the frame body Mf of the mask M1, which is discharged from the rear opening 19 of the printing unit 10 along the mask transport unit 14, is located (discharge height movement process) (Figure 11(a)).

[0067] 11(a), the print processing unit 22 included in the print control unit 21 then controls the front-rear movement mechanism 18 to move the lift cylinder 17 to the front side of the mask M1 (the side farther from the replacement unit 30), and controls the lift cylinder 17 to lower the abutting member 16 (arrow g1). Next, the print processing unit 22 controls the front-rear movement mechanism 18 to move the lift cylinder 17 toward the replacement unit 30, and moves it so that the shift holding position Rs set in the frame body Mf is aligned with the position of the pads 52 of the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 (replacement member ejection step) (arrow g2).

[0068] Next, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the front cylinder 47 to protrude the piston, and holds both end surfaces (frame body Mf) of the mask M1 (replacement member) with the pair of pads 52 (replacement member holding process). In Figures 11 to 13, the states in which the pads 52 of the front holding mechanism 40 or the rear holding mechanism 41 hold both end surfaces of the mask M1 or mask M2 are indicated by black circles.

[0069] 11(b), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the lifting motor 46 to raise the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 to an upright height H2 at which the main surface of the held mask M1 (replacement member) is upright (replacement member upright step) (arrow g3). Next, a posture determination step is executed. That is, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the detection cylinder 91 (drive unit) of the contact sensor 90 to move the front detection member 94f relative to the mask M1, and causes the position detection unit 95 to detect the stop position of the front detection member 94f (posture detection step).

[0070] The determination unit 64 included in the replacement control unit 60 determines whether the mask M1 is in an upright position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit 70, based on the detection result from the contact sensor 90 (position detection unit) (position determination step). The determination unit 64 determines that the mask M1 is in an upright position when the detection member 94 (front detection member 94f) stops at the upright detection position U1. Furthermore, the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M1 is in a non-upright position when the detection member 94 stops at the non-upright detection position U2.

[0071] In Figure 12(a), when the judgment unit 64 judges that the held mask M1 is in an upright position, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the lifting motor 46 to lower the pair of front holding mechanisms 40 to a landing height H3 at which the held mask M1 (replacement member) lands in the front slot Sf (arrow g4) (replacement member landing process).

[0072] In Figure 12(b), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the front cylinder 47 to retract the piston, causing the pair of pads 52 to move away from both end surfaces of the mask M1 and releasing the mask M1 from the front holding mechanism 40 (replacement member release process).

[0073] When the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M1 (replacement member) is in a non-standing position, which is not a position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit 70, the replacement processing unit 61 displays a warning on the touch panel 36 (notification unit) to notify the worker that the mask M1 is not in an standing position (non-standing position notification process). Note that the notification unit that notifies the worker that the mask M1 is not in an standing position is not limited to the touch panel 36. For example, the notification unit may be a rotating light or an information terminal carried by the worker.

[0074] Furthermore, when the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M1 (replacement member) is in a non-standing position that does not allow it to be stored in the storage unit 70, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the shutter drive unit 38 to move the shutter unit 37 to the closed position Hs1 (shutter closing step). This prevents outside air, the temperature and humidity of which have not been adjusted, from flowing into the interior of the printing unit 10 through the opened rear opening 19 of the printing unit 10 until the operator completes the recovery work of the replacement device Q.

[0075] When the exchange device Q performs the supply process or the collection process, the print processing unit 22 may control the exhaust unit 82 to stop exhausting the air inside the printing unit 10 or to reduce the amount of exhausted air. This prevents outside air, the temperature and humidity of which have not been adjusted, from entering the inside of the printing unit 10 through the open rear opening 19. The transmitter 63 of the exchange device Q transmits information indicating whether the shutter unit 37 is in the closed position Hs1 to the receiver 25 of the printing unit 10. When the receiver 25 receives information indicating that the shutter unit 37 has moved to the closed position Hs1, the print processing unit 22 controls the exhaust unit 82 to start the exhaust unit 82 or to restore the amount of exhaust to a normal level.

[0076] 12(b), 13, and 14, a description will be given of a replacement member supply method (supply process) in which the replacement device Q (replacement unit 30) supplies the mask M2 (replacement member) to the printing unit 10 (printing device), as well as control by the printing control unit 21 and the replacement control unit 60. Here, an example will be described in which the replacement device Q supplies the mask M2 stored in the rear slot Sb of the storage unit 70 to the printing unit 10.

[0077] First, the replacement processing unit 61 of the replacement control unit 60 controls the lifting motor 46 of the holding unit 39 to move the height of the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 to a holding height H4 at which the pads 52 of the rear holding mechanisms 41 can hold both end faces of the mask M2 stored in the rear slot Sb (holding height movement process) (Figure 12(b)).

[0078] In FIG. 12(b), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the rear cylinder 48 to protrude the piston 48a and hold both end surfaces of the mask M2 with the pair of pads 52 (replacement member holding step).

[0079] 13(a), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the lift motor 46 to lift the rear holding mechanism 41 to a rotation height H5 where the lower end of the rotated mask M2 enters the inside of the rear opening 19 of the printing unit 10 (replacement member lifting step) (arrow h1). Next, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the swing motor 56 to move the pusher 57 toward the mask M2 (arrow h2) and bring the pusher 57 into contact with the first surface Mp1 of the mask M2. In addition, the printing processing unit 22 controls the front-rear movement mechanism 18 to move the lift cylinder 17 to a position where movement of the mask M2 begins (arrow h3).

[0080] 13(b), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the swing motor 56 to rotate the pusher 57 (arrow h4), and controls the lift motor 46 to lower the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 (replacement member landing step) (arrow h5). As a result, the lower end of the mask M2 lands on the upper surface of the mask transport unit 14.

[0081] Next, the exchange processing unit 61 controls the swing motor 56 to rotate the pusher 57 to the retracted position (pusher retraction step). Next, the exchange processing unit 61 controls the lift motor 46 to lower the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 to the mask transport height H1 (mounting height lowering step). As a result, the main surfaces (first surface Mp1, second surface Mp2) of the mask M2 become horizontal with a portion of the mask M2 placed on the mask transport unit 14.

[0082] In Figure 13(b), when the main surface of the mask M2 becomes horizontal, the printing processing unit 22 controls the lifting cylinder 17 to lower the abutment member 16 (arrow h6) and abut the abutment member 16 against the rear side of the frame body Mf on the front side of the mask M2.

[0083] 14(a), the replacement processing unit 61 then controls the rear cylinder 48 to retract the piston 48a, moving the pair of pads 52 away from both end surfaces of the mask M2 and releasing the mask M2 from the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41 (replacement member releasing step). Once the mask M2 has been released from the pair of rear holding mechanisms 41, the print processing unit 22 controls the front-rear movement mechanism 18 to move the lifting cylinder 17 toward the mask holding unit 14a, causing the abutment member 16 to press the front side of the mask M2 (arrow h7).

[0084] 14(b), the print processing unit 22 then raises the contact member 16, moves the lift cylinder 17 rearward, and lowers the contact member 16. Finally, the contact member 16 pushes the rear side of the frame Mf behind the mask M2, moving the mask M2 to the mask holding unit 14a (arrow h8). The print processing unit 22 then controls the mask holding unit 14a to have the holding mechanism hold the mask M2 (replaceable member). This makes the print unit 10 ready for printing using the mask M2.

[0085] Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a method for removing the storage unit 70 by an operator from the mounting opening 33 of the replacement unit 30, and control by the replacement control unit 60 will be described.

[0086] 14(b), when the touch panel 36 is operated and the replacement processing unit 61 receives a command to release the lock, the replacement processing unit 61 controls the shutter driving unit 38 to lower the shutter unit 37 (arrow i1), causing the shutter unit 37 to close the opening 32 (closing step). When the opening 32 is closed, the replacement processing unit 61 displays on the touch panel 36 the message "Preparation for removing the storage unit 70 is complete."

[0087] 14(b), when preparations for removing the storage unit 70 are complete, the worker retracts the storage unit 70 (arrow i2) and removes it from the mounting opening 33 of the replacement unit 30 (storage unit removal process). In the replacement unit 30 of this embodiment, even when the storage unit 70 is not mounted in the mounting opening 33, the opening 32 is covered by the shutter 37, so the worker cannot access the inside of the printing unit 10 from the opening 32. Therefore, even when the storage unit 70 is not mounted in the mounting opening 33, the printing operation can be performed safely in the printing unit 10.

[0088] Next, with reference to Fig. 15, another embodiment of a guide unit (hereinafter referred to as "guide unit 59A") and another embodiment of a contact sensor (hereinafter referred to as "contact sensor 90A") of the exchange device Q will be described. The guide unit 59A (first guide unit) and the detection member 94A (second guide unit) of the contact sensor 90A differ from the guide unit 59 and the detection member 94 of the contact sensor 90 of the exchange device Q shown in Figs. 1 to 10 in that they are provided at positions where they come into contact with the second surface Mp2 on the printing unit 10 side of the mask M in an upright position that has been lifted to the upright height H2 by the holding unit 39. Hereinafter, the same parts as those of the exchange device Q shown in Figs. 1 to 10 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0089] Figure 15(a) shows a state in which the pad 52 of the holding unit 39 holds the shift holding position Rs of the mask M discharged in a horizontal position from the printing unit 10 at the mask transport height H1, and the pad 52 and the guide unit 59A are raised (arrow j) to lift the held mask M to the standing height H2 and into an upright position.

[0090] The guide portion 59A (first guide portion) is located above the holding position R and in a position where it abuts against the second surface Mp2 of the replacement member (mask M) on the printing unit 10 (printing device) side when the replacement member (mask M) has been lifted to a predetermined height (standing height H2). As a result, while the mask M is between the mask transport height H1 and the standing height H2, the guide portion 59A is located away from the second surface Mp2 of the mask M and does not interfere with the mask M. Then, when the mask M moves to the standing height H2, the guide portion 59A abuts against the second surface Mp2 of the mask M, and the mask M assumes an upright position.

[0091] 15(b) shows a state in which the detection cylinder 91 (drive unit) of the contact sensor 90A has moved the detection member 94A (second guide unit) relative to the mask M, which is in an upright position with the guide unit 59A (first guide unit) abutting against the second surface Mp2 of the mask M. The detection member 94A of the contact sensor 90A is located at a position spaced downward from the holding position R and abuts against the surface (second surface Mp2) of the replacement part (mask M) on the printing unit 10 (printing device) side that has been lifted to a predetermined height (upright height H2).

[0092] When the mask M held by the holding unit 39 is in the upright position indicated by the solid line, the detection member 94A moves to and stops at an upright detection position U1 beyond the frame body Mf held by the pad 52. When the mask M held by the holding unit 39 is in a non-upright position with its tip indicated by the two-dot chain line rotated toward the printing unit 10, the detection member 94A moves to and stops at a non-upright detection position U2 where it abuts against the frame body Mf held by the pad 52. The position detection unit 95 of the contact sensor 90A detects whether the detection member 94A is stopped at the upright detection position U1 or the non-upright detection position U2.

[0093] Next, with reference to Figures 16 and 17, we will explain another embodiment of an exchange device (hereinafter referred to as "exchange device QA") in which a storage section 70 is attached to another embodiment of an exchange section (hereinafter referred to as "exchange section 30A"). Exchange device QA differs from exchange device Q shown in Figures 1 to 10 in that it has an optical sensor comprising an irradiation section and a light receiving section as a posture detection section. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in exchange device Q shown in Figures 1 to 10 will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0094] 16(a) and 17, the replacement unit 30A of the replacement device QA is provided with a first optical sensor K1 including an irradiation unit Ke1 that irradiates light Kl along the second surface Mp2 of the mask M (replacement member) that has been lifted to a standing height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40 of the holder 39, and a light receiving unit Kr1 that receives the light Kl irradiated by the irradiation unit Ke1 at the tip of the mask M. The replacement unit 30A is also provided with a second optical sensor K2 that includes an irradiation unit Ke2 that irradiates light Kl along the first surface Mp1 of the mask M that has been lifted to a standing height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40, and a light receiving unit Kr2 that receives the light Kl irradiated by the irradiation unit Ke2 at the tip of the mask M.

[0095] 16(a), the replacement unit 30A is provided with a third optical sensor K3 including an irradiation unit Ke3 that irradiates light Kl along the second surface Mp2 of the mask M lifted to the standing height H2 by the rear holding mechanism 41, and a light receiving unit Kr3 that receives the light Kl irradiated by the irradiation unit Ke3 at the tip of the mask M. The replacement unit 30A is also provided with a fourth optical sensor K4 that includes an irradiation unit Ke4 that irradiates light Kl along the first surface Mp1 of the mask M lifted to the standing height H2 by the rear holding mechanism 41, and a light receiving unit Kr4 that receives the light Kl irradiated by the irradiation unit Ke4 at the tip of the mask M.

[0096] 17(a) shows a state in which the mask M, which has been lifted to an upright height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40, is being detected by the first optical sensor K1 and the second optical sensor K2. The first optical sensor K1 and the second optical sensor K2 are installed at positions above and away from the holding position R of the mask M, which has been lifted to the upright height H2. When the mask M is in the upright position, the light Kl irradiated by the irradiating unit Ke1 is received by the light receiving unit Kr1 without being blocked by the mask M, and the light Kl irradiated by the irradiating unit Ke2 is received by the light receiving unit Kr2 without being blocked by the mask M.

[0097] 17(b) shows a state in which the first optical sensor K1 and the second optical sensor K2 detect the posture of the mask M, which has been lifted to the standing height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40 and whose tip has rotated toward the printing unit 10 to assume a non-standing posture. In this state, the light Kl emitted by the irradiation unit Ke1 is received by the light receiving unit Kr1 without being blocked by the mask M, whereas the light Kl emitted by the irradiation unit Ke2 is blocked by the mask M and is not received by the light receiving unit Kr2.

[0098] When both the first optical sensor K1 and the second optical sensor K2 receive the light Kl, the determination unit 64 of the replacement control unit 60 determines that the mask M (replacement member) lifted to the standing height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40 is in the standing position. Furthermore, when one of the first optical sensor K1 and the second optical sensor K2 receives the light Kl and the other does not receive the light Kl, the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M lifted to the standing height H2 by the front holding mechanism 40 is in the non-standing position.

[0099] Similarly, when both the third optical sensor K3 and the fourth optical sensor K4 receive the light Kl, the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M (replacement part) lifted to the standing height H2 by the rear holding mechanism 41 is in the standing position. Furthermore, when one of the third optical sensor K3 and the fourth optical sensor K4 receives the light Kl and the other does not receive the light Kl, the determination unit 64 determines that the mask M lifted to the standing height H2 by the rear holding mechanism 41 is in the non-standing position.

[0100] 16 and 17 show an example in which the optical sensors (first optical sensor K1 to fourth optical sensor K4) are installed at positions above and away from the holding position R of the mask M lifted to the standing height H2, but the optical sensors may also be installed at positions below and away from the holding position R of the mask M lifted to the standing height H2. In that case, for the mask M whose tip has rotated toward the printing unit 10 and taken a non-standing position as shown in FIG. 17(b), the first optical sensor K1 does not receive the light Kl, but the second optical sensor K2 receives the light Kl.

[0101] In this way, the exchange device QA is equipped with optical sensors (first optical sensor K1 to fourth optical sensor K4) that detect the posture of the exchange device (mask M) by irradiating light Kl onto the exchange device (mask M) lifted by the holder 39. Then, the determination unit 64 provided in the exchange device QA determines whether the exchange device is in an upright posture that allows it to be stored in the storage unit 70, based on the detection results of the optical sensors.

[0102] Note that the above description has been given using the mask M as an example of the replacement member stored in the storage unit 70 and supplied to the printing unit 10 by the replacement unit 30, but the replacement member is not limited to the mask M. For example, the replacement member may be a transport jig that transports a lower support member that is attached to the upper surface of the substrate holding unit 13c in the printing unit 10 and holds the substrate B from below, a transport jig that transports cleaning paper that wipes off the paste P adhering to the mask M, a transport jig that transports the squeegee 20a, or a transport jig that transports a substrate for test printing. In other words, the replacement member only needs to have the same external shape as the frame Mf of the mask M.

[0103] As described above, the replacement device Q of this embodiment includes a storage section 70 that can store the replacement part (mask M) in an upright state with its main surface upright, a holding section 39 that holds the replacement part so that it can rotate back and forth relative to the printing device and lifts the held replacement part to a predetermined height (upright height H2), a posture detection section (contact sensor 90) that detects the posture of the replacement part lifted by the holding section 39, and a determination section 64 that determines whether the replacement part is in an upright posture that can be stored in the storage section 70 based on the detection result by the posture detection section, and supplies the replacement part to the printing device and collects the replacement part from the printing device.

[0104] This allows the switching device Q to be realized with a small installation area. [Industrial Applicability]

[0105] The replacement device of the present disclosure has the advantage of being able to be realized with a small installation area, and is useful in the field of component mounting in which components are mounted on a board. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 10 Printing department (printing device) 32 Opening 36 Touch panel (notification section) 37 Shutter section 39 Holding part 70 Storage area 90, 90A Contact sensor (posture detection part) 91 Detection cylinder (drive unit) 94, 94A Detection member B board H2 Standing height (predetermined height) Hs1 occlusion position Hs2 open position K1 First optical sensor (attitude detection part) K2 Second optical sensor (attitude detection part) Kl Light M, M1, M2 masks (replacement parts) P Paste Q, QA exchange device

Claims

1. An exchange device that supplies an exchange member to a printing device that prints a paste on a substrate using a mask having a predetermined print pattern, and collects the exchange member from the printing device, a storage section capable of storing the replacement member in a state in which a main surface of the replacement member is upright; a holding section that holds the replacement member so that the replacement member can rotate back and forth relative to the printing device and lifts the held replacement member to a predetermined height; a posture detection unit that detects the posture of the replacement member lifted by the holding unit; a determination unit that determines whether the replacement member is in a position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit based on a detection result by the position detection unit.

2. The exchange device according to claim 1 , wherein the attitude detection unit is a contact sensor that detects the attitude of the exchange member by making a part of the contact with the exchange member lifted by the holding unit.

3. The contact sensor A drive unit; a detection member that can be moved by the drive unit to a position in contact with the main surface of the replacement member in a position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit; The exchange device according to claim 2 , wherein the attitude of the exchange member is detected based on a position at which the detection member, which has been moved by the drive unit toward the exchange member lifted by the holder, stops.

4. The exchange device according to claim 1 , wherein the position detection unit is an optical sensor that detects the position of the exchange member by irradiating light onto the exchange member lifted by the holder.

5. The replacement device according to claim 1 , further comprising a notification unit that notifies an operator when the determination unit determines that the replacement member is not in a position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit.

6. an opening through which the replacement member can pass and which communicates with the interior of the printing device; a shutter portion that covers the opening; a shutter driving unit that moves the shutter unit between a closing position that covers the opening and an opening position that opens the opening, The exchange device according to claim 1 , wherein the shutter driver moves the shutter to the closed position when the determiner determines that the exchange member is not in a position that allows it to be stored in the storage unit.

Images