Supply device

Abstract

To adjust a supply speed of an object supplied from the inside of a container to the outside of the container.SOLUTION: A supply device 10 includes a support member 22, a rocking body RB, and a container 60. The support member 22 rotatably supports the rotation shaft 21. The swinging body RB is rotatable about the rotation shaft 21 with respect to the support member 22. The container 60 is held by the swinging body RB and has an opening. The swinging body RB includes a frame 27, a placement portion 30, and a lid body 39. The frame 27 is fixed to the rotation shaft 21. The placement part 30 is fixed to the frame 27, and the container 60 can be placed thereon. The lid 39 is connected to the frame 27, and can open and close the opening of the container 60 placed on the placement portion 30. The supply device 10 further includes a conversion mechanism CM that transmits a force from the power source as an opening / closing operation of the lid 39 with respect to the opening of the container 60 and can change the opening amount of the container 60.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a feeding device. [Background technology]

[0002] The device described in Patent Document 1 includes a container inversion mechanism and an inversion member. The container inversion mechanism includes a support column extending vertically and a movable body attached to the support column. The movable body is capable of moving vertically along the support column. The movable body rotatably supports the inversion member around an axis perpendicular to the vertical axis. In other words, the up-down orientation of the inversion member is reversible. The inversion member includes a mounting base and a lid body. The mounting base and the lid body are arranged to face each other. The mounting base is capable of supporting a container containing an object. The lid body is capable of closing the opening of a container placed on the mounting base. The lid body also has an outlet that connects the inside and outside of the container.

[0003] In the device described in Patent Document 1, a container containing an object is placed on the mounting table with the mounting table positioned downward. Next, the opening of the container is closed with a lid. In this state, the reversing member is turned upside down so that the lid is positioned downward. This causes the object inside the container to be discharged from the discharge port of the lid. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-001672 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the device described in Patent Document 1, the speed at which the object is supplied from the container to the outside of the container depends on the opening of the outlet of the lid. Therefore, even if the supply speed of the object is too fast or too slow, it is not possible to simply change the supply speed of the object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a supply device comprising: a support member that rotatably supports a rotating shaft; a oscillating body that is rotatable relative to the support member with the rotating shaft as the center of rotation; and a container that is held by the oscillating body and has an opening, wherein the oscillating body has a frame fixed to the rotating shaft, a mounting section that is fixed to the frame and on which the container can be placed, and a lid body that is connected to the frame and can open and close the opening of the container placed on the mounting section, and further comprising a conversion mechanism that transmits force from a power source as an opening and closing action of the lid body relative to the opening of the container and can change the opening size of the container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the above configuration, the supply speed of the object being supplied from inside the container to outside the container can be adjusted. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire supply device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a part of the supply device when viewed in the first negative direction. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the auxiliary tool and the container. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of a part of the supply device when the oscillator is rotated facing the first negative direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of a supply device will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings may show components enlarged for ease of understanding. The dimensional proportions of the components may differ from those in the actual drawings or from those in other drawings.

[0010] As shown in Fig. 1, the supply device 10 is a device for supplying an object contained in a container 60 to a given supply target by rotating the container 60. The supply device 10 has a first component P1 and a second component P2. The state of the supply device 10 shown in Figs. 1 to 3 is the state of the supply device 10 before the container 60 is rotated. The state of the supply device 10 shown in Fig. 4 is the state of the supply device 10 after the container 60 is rotated.

[0011] <About the first component> The first component part P1 includes a pair of rotating shafts 21, a pair of support members 22, a pair of first motors 23, a pair of base plates 24, a pair of driven pulleys 25, a pair of cams 26, a pair of frames 27, and a plurality of joints 29.

[0012] The pair of rotation shafts 21 are positioned on the same straight line and are spaced apart from each other. In this embodiment, an axis parallel to the rotation axis 21 is defined as the first axis X. One of the axes perpendicular to the first axis X is defined as the second axis Y. An axis perpendicular to the first axis X and the second axis Y is defined as the third axis Z. One of the directions along the first axis X is defined as the first positive direction X1, and the direction along the first axis X opposite to the first positive direction X1 is defined as the first negative direction X2. One of the directions along the second axis Y is defined as the second positive direction Y1, and the direction along the second axis Y opposite to the second positive direction Y1 is defined as the second negative direction Y2. One of the directions along the third axis Z is defined as the third positive direction Z1, and the direction along the third axis Z opposite to the third positive direction Z1 is defined as the third negative direction Z2. When the supplying device 10 is fixed to another device, the supplying device 10 is fixed so that the third negative direction Z2 coincides with the direction of gravity.

[0013] In the following description, the pair of members are positioned apart in the direction along the first axis X and have a symmetrical structure. In the following description, "one member" refers to the member of the pair that is positioned on the first positive direction X1 side. One of the pair of members will be described as a representative.

[0014] The pair of support members 22 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. One of the support members 22 rotatably supports one of the rotation shafts 21. In other words, the rotation shaft 21 is rotatable relative to the support member 22. The support member 22 is fixed to a frame, pillar, or the like (not shown). Therefore, the support member 22 is immovable.

[0015] The pair of first motors 23 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. The first motors 23 are power sources for rotating the rotating shaft 21. One of the first motors 23 is connected to the end of one of the rotating shafts 21 on the first positive direction X1 side. The first motor 23, together with the support member 22, is fixed to a frame, a pillar, or the like (not shown). The first motor 23 is driven under the control of a first control unit 81 (described later). When the first motor 23 is driven, the rotating shaft 21 fixed to the first motor 23 rotates around the first axis X as the rotation center.

[0016] The pair of base plates 24 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each base plate 24 is substantially flat. The main surface of each base plate 24 is perpendicular to the first axis X. One base plate 24 is held by one rotation shaft 21 on the first negative direction X2 side with respect to one support member 22.

[0017] The pair of driven pulleys 25 are disposed at an interval in a direction along the first axis X. Each driven pulley 25 is substantially disk-shaped. One driven pulley 25 is located on the first negative direction X2 side with respect to one base plate 24. One driven pulley 25 is fixed to one rotating shaft 21 via a bearing (not shown). The bearing is switchable between a fixed state and an open state. When the bearing is in the fixed state, the driven pulley 25 rotates together with the rotating shaft 21. When the bearing is in the open state, the driven pulley 25 is rotatable relative to the rotating shaft 21. Furthermore, one driven pulley 25 is fixed to one base plate 24. Therefore, one base plate 24 is rotatable together with the one driven pulley 25.

[0018] The pair of cams 26 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each cam 26 is substantially disk-shaped. One cam 26 is fixed to one rotating shaft 21 via a bearing (not shown). The cam 26 is located on the first negative direction X2 side of one driven pulley 25. The bearing is switchable between a fixed state and an open state. When the bearing is in the fixed state, the cam 26 rotates together with the rotating shaft 21. When the bearing is in the open state, the cam 26 is rotatable relative to the rotating shaft 21.

[0019] Furthermore, one of the cams 26 is eccentric with respect to the central axis of rotation of one of the rotary shafts 21. Although not shown, each of the cams 26 has a groove. The groove is recessed in the outer circumferential surface of each of the cams 26. Each of the cams 26 is fitted with a cam follower 33, which will be described later, via the groove.

[0020] Each joint 29 is substantially cylindrical. Each joint 29 extends in a direction along the first axis X. Two joints 29 are fixed to one base plate 24. Specifically, the two joints 29 are fixed to a surface of one of the base plates 24 facing the first negative direction X2. The two joints 29 extend in the first negative direction X2. The number of joints 29 per base plate 24 is not limited to two.

[0021] The pair of frames 27 are disposed at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each frame 27 is plate-shaped. One frame 27 faces one base plate 24 in the direction along the first axis X. One frame 27 is fixed to one base plate 24 via two joints 29. Specifically, one frame 27 is fixed to the end of each joint 29 extending from one base plate 24 on the first negative direction X2 side. Therefore, one frame 27 is fixed to the rotation shaft 21 via the two joints 29 and one base plate 24.

[0022] 2, when viewed in the first negative direction X2, the one frame 27 is substantially L-shaped. More specifically, in the example state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the corners of the L-shape of the frame 27 face the second positive direction Y1 and the third negative direction Z2. The frame 27 is located on the first negative direction X2 side with respect to the one cam 26. Note that the one support member 22, the one first motor 23, the one base plate 24, and the one driven pulley 25 are not shown in FIG.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the first component P1 includes a pair of auxiliary plates 28. The main surfaces of the pair of auxiliary plates 28 are spaced apart in the direction along the first axis X. Each auxiliary plate 28 is plate-shaped and has a through hole. Each auxiliary plate 28 is perpendicular to the first axis X. In the example of the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2, one auxiliary plate 28 is fixed to the second positive direction Y1 side of one frame 27, and has a portion that protrudes from the frame 27.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1 , the first component P1 includes a mounting portion 30 and a fixed holder 31. The mounting portion 30 is plate-shaped. The main surface of the mounting portion 30 is parallel to the first axis X. The mounting portion 30 is located between a pair of frames 27. The mounting portion 30 is connected to both of the pair of frames 27. In other words, the mounting portion 30 is fixed to the pair of frames 27.

[0025] The fixed holder 31 includes a plate-shaped portion 31A and a protrusion 31B. The main surface of the plate-shaped portion 31A faces in the same direction as the main surface of the mounting portion 30. The plate-shaped portion 31A is fixed to the mounting portion 30 via a bolt on the main surface of the mounting portion 30.

[0026] The protrusions 31B protrude from the main surface of the plate-shaped portion 31A. In the example of the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 1 , the protrusions 31B protrude in the third positive direction Z1 from the surface of the plate-shaped portion 31A facing the third positive direction Z1. The protrusions 31B extend in a substantially square shape when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the main surface of the plate-shaped portion 31A. The inner area defined by the protrusions 31B is determined to match the outer shape of a container 60, which will be described later. In other words, the container 60 can be placed on the placement unit 30 via the fixed holder 31.

[0027] The first component part P1 also includes a pair of lid rotation shafts 34 and a pair of arms 32. The pair of lid rotation shafts 34 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each lid rotation shaft 34 is rod-shaped. Each lid rotation shaft 34 extends in the direction along the first axis X. One of the lid rotation shafts 34 is rotatably supported with respect to one of the auxiliary plates 28.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the pair of arms 32 are spaced apart in a direction along the first axis X. Each arm 32 is shaped like a substantially rectangular plate. Each arm 32 extends in a direction perpendicular to the first axis X. The second positive direction Y1 side of one arm 32 is connected to one lid rotation shaft 34. One arm 32 is rotatably held with respect to one lid rotation shaft 34 and one auxiliary plate 28.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the first component part P1 includes a pair of cam followers 33, a pair of extension members 35, and a pair of brackets . The pair of cam followers 33 are spaced apart in a direction along the first axis X. Each cam follower 33 is a bearing with a rotation shaft. One cam follower 33 is attached to a surface of one arm 32 facing the first positive direction X1. In the example of the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 1 , specifically, the cam follower 33 is attached to the second negative direction Y2 side of the center of the arm 32 in a direction along the second axis Y. The outer circumferential surface of one cam follower 33 contacts the outer circumferential surface of one cam 26. Specifically, the outer circumferential surface of the cam follower 33 fits into a groove in the cam 26. In this way, the arm 32 is connected to the outer circumferential surface of the cam 26 via the cam follower 33.

[0030] The pair of extension members 35 are disposed at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. The extension members 35 are located on the first negative direction X2 side with respect to one of the auxiliary plates 28. One of the extension members 35 is fixed to one of the lid rotation shafts 34. In the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the extension members 35 extend in the third positive direction Z1 from the lid rotation shaft 34 as a starting point. The extension members 35 are rotatable around the lid rotation shaft 34 as the lid rotation shaft 34 rotates.

[0031] The pair of brackets 36 are spaced apart in a direction along the first axis X. Each bracket 36 is generally plate-shaped. Each bracket 36 is bent. In the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2 , one bracket 36 has a portion perpendicular to the first axis X and a portion connected to the end of the portion perpendicular to the second axis Y2 and perpendicular to the second axis Y. Of the portion of the bracket 36 perpendicular to the first axis X, the surface facing the first positive direction X1 is fixed to one extension member 35 via a bolt (not shown).

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the first component P1 includes a pair of coil springs 37, a protective cover 38, a lid 39, two dampers 40, a pair of fasteners 41, a fixing base 42, and an air vibrator 43.

[0033] The pair of coil springs 37 are spaced apart in the direction along the first axis X. Each coil spring 37 is a tension spring. That is, a force acts on each coil spring 37 in a direction that reduces the length of the coil spring 37. In the example of the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 1 , a first end of one coil spring 37 is attached to an end of one frame 27 on the second negative direction Y2 side. A second end of one coil spring 37 is attached to an end of one arm 32 on the second negative direction Y2 side. Therefore, the coil spring 37 applies a force in a direction that brings the one frame 27 and the one arm 32 closer to each other.

[0034] The protective cover 38 has a curved plate shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the protective cover 38 is fixed to a pair of brackets 36. In the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the protective cover 38 extends in the third positive direction Z1 from the portion fixed to the pair of brackets 36 and is bent approximately 90 degrees midway toward the second negative direction Y2. That is, the protective cover 38 has a portion that is perpendicular to the main surface of the mounting portion 30 and a portion that is approximately parallel to the main surface of the mounting portion 30. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, the protective cover 38 has a through-hole 38A that penetrates the protective cover 38. The through-hole 38A is located approximately in the center of the protective cover 38.

[0035] The two dampers 40 extend in the third negative direction Z2 from the surface of the protective cover 38 facing the third negative direction Z2. Each damper 40 is made of vibration-isolating rubber. The two dampers 40 are positioned with a gap between them in a direction perpendicular to the first axis X. Specifically, the two dampers 40 are arranged so as to sandwich the through-hole 38A of the protective cover 38.

[0036] The lid 39 is generally flat. The lid 39 is generally parallel to the first axis X. However, the edges of the lid 39 on the first positive direction X1 side and the first negative direction X2 side are bent at approximately 90 degrees relative to the center of the lid 39. The lid 39 is located on the mounting unit 30 side relative to the protective cover 38. The lid 39 is also attached to the third negative direction Z2 side of each damper 40. That is, each damper 40 is located between the lid 39 and the protective cover 38. The lid 39 is connected to the lid rotation shaft 34 via the damper 40, the protective cover 38, the bracket 36, and the extension member 35. Therefore, the lid 39 can rotate about the lid rotation shaft 34 relative to the arm 32, the frame 27, and the mounting unit 30.

[0037] Each of the dampers 40 described above connects the cover 39 to each of the frames 27 via the protective cover 38, each of the brackets 36, each of the extension members 35, each of the cover rotation shafts 34, and each of the auxiliary plates 28. Therefore, it can be said that each of the dampers 40 is interposed between the cover 39 and each of the frames 27. Therefore, each of the dampers 40 damps vibrations transmitted from the cover 39 to each of the frames 27.

[0038] The pair of fasteners 41 are spaced apart in a direction along the first axis X. One fastener 41 is fixed to one arm 32. The fastener 41 extends from the arm 32 toward the protective cover 38. The fastener 41 has, for example, a hook portion and a lever, and is attached to the protective cover 38 by operating the lever with the hook portion hooked onto the protective cover 38. In other words, each fastener 41 is a fixing jig that immovably connects the arm 32 to the lid body 39 via the protective cover 38. Note that before the fastener 41 is attached to the protective cover 38, the lid body 39 is freely rotatable about the lid rotation shaft 34. For example, the lid body 39 can be manually rotated before the fastener 41 is attached to the protective cover 38.

[0039] The fixed base 42 has a pair of first members 42A and a second member 42B. Each of the first members 42A is a plate material. The pair of first members 42A face each other in the direction along the first axis X. Each of the first members 42A stands upright from the surface of the lid body 39 facing the protective cover 38. Each of the first members 42A passes through the inside of the through-hole 38A of the protective cover 38. Therefore, the end of each of the first members 42A on the third positive direction Z1 side is located on the opposite side of the lid body 39 from the protective cover 38.

[0040] The second member 42B is a plate material. The second member 42B extends in a direction along the first axis X. The second member 42B is located on the opposite side of the protective cover 38 from the lid body 39. The second member 42B is fixed to both of the pair of first members 42A via bolts.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the first component P1 includes a fixed base 42 and an air vibrator 43. The air vibrator 43 converts the pressure of compressed gas into vibrational motion. The air vibrator 43 is fixed to the second member 42B. The air vibrator 43 can apply vibrations to the lid body 39 via the fixed base 42. The air vibrator 43 is generally cylindrical in shape. The air vibrator 43 can vibrate in a direction along the central axis of the cylinder. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, when viewed from the direction along the first axis X, an imaginary line VL along the vibration direction of the vibrator is inclined with respect to both the inner surface 39A of the lid body 39 and an orthogonal line orthogonal to the inner surface 39A. Note that, in the state of the supply device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the orthogonal line orthogonal to the inner surface 39A is parallel to the third axis Z.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1 , the first component P1 includes an open / close sensor 44. The pair of open / close sensors 44 are spaced apart in a direction along the first axis X. Each open / close sensor 44 is a fiber sensor. Specifically, the open / close sensor 44 includes a light source and a light receiving unit. The light receiving unit receives light emitted from the light source and reflected by an object. The open / close sensor 44 can detect a change in the amount of light received relative to the amount of light emitted by the light source. The open / close sensor 44 is fixed to a member (not shown) and irradiates the arm 32. The open / close sensor 44 can output a detection result indicating whether the lid 39 is in a closed state relative to the container 60 based on the difference between the amount of light received when the lid 39 is in an open state relative to the container 60 and the amount of light received when the lid 39 is in a closed state relative to the container 60.

[0043] Of the components of the supply device 10 described above, the base plate 24, joint 29, frame 27, mounting portion 30, fixed holder 31, auxiliary plate 28, extension member 35, protective cover 38, and lid body 39, as well as the components fixed thereto, function as a rotatable body RB that can rotate relative to the support member 22 with the rotation axis 21 as the center of rotation.

[0044] Of the components of the supply device 10 described above, the cam 26, cam follower 33, arm 32, lid rotation shaft 34, fastener 41, and protective cover 38 function as a conversion mechanism CM that transmits force from the first motor 23, which is a power source, as an opening and closing operation of the lid 39 relative to the opening 61 of the container 60. The conversion mechanism CM is also capable of changing the opening amount of the container 60. Specifically, the conversion mechanism CM is capable of changing the opening angle between the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 and the container 60 by transmitting force from the first motor 23 to rotate the lid 39.

[0045] <About the second component> As shown in FIG. 1, the second component part P2 has a drive shaft 51, a pair of reference members 52, a pair of drive pulleys 53, a pair of belts 54, and a second motor 55.

[0046] The drive shaft 51 extends in a direction along the first axis X. That is, the drive shaft 51 extends in the same direction as the rotation shaft 21. The drive shaft 51 is located on the third positive direction Z1 side with respect to the first component part P1. The length of the drive shaft 51 in the direction along the first axis X is longer than the length of the mounting part 30 in the direction along the first axis X.

[0047] The pair of reference members 52 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each reference member 52 rotatably supports a drive shaft 51. In other words, the drive shaft 51 is rotatable relative to the reference members 52. Each reference member 52 is located on the third positive direction Z1 side with respect to the first component part P1. The reference members 52 are fixed to a frame, pillar, or the like (not shown) and are immovable.

[0048] The pair of drive pulleys 53 are arranged at an interval in the direction along the first axis X. Each drive pulley 53 is substantially disk-shaped. Each drive pulley 53 is fixed to the drive shaft 51. Therefore, each drive pulley 53 can rotate together with the drive shaft 51.

[0049] The pair of belts 54 are arranged at a distance from each other in the direction along the first axis X. Each belt 54 is an endless circular belt. One belt 54 is wound around both the driving pulley 53 and the driven pulley 25. The belt 54 transmits the torque of the driving pulley 53, which rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the drive shaft 51, to the driven pulley 25.

[0050] The second motor 55 is connected to the end of the drive shaft 51 on the side of the first negative direction X2. The second motor 55 is a power source for rotating the drive shaft 51. The second motor 55 is fixed to a member (not shown) together with the reference member 52 via a fixed bracket 56. The second motor 55 is driven under the control of the first control unit 81. When the second motor 55 is driven, the drive shaft 51 rotates around an axis parallel to the first axis X.

[0051] <About the container> The supply device 10 has a container 60 and an auxiliary device 64. The container 60 can be placed on the placement unit 30 via the fixed holder 31. In other words, the container 60 is detachable from the oscillator RB.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, the container 60 is box-shaped with an opening 61 facing a specific direction. Specifically, the container 60 is a roughly square cylinder with a bottom. Therefore, the opening edge 62 of the container 60 is roughly square. The container 60 can accommodate an object. The object may be, for example, a product such as a chip or semiconductor product that will become an electronic component, processing waste, or other powder that serves as a buffer material.

[0053] Furthermore, when viewed in a direction along the central axis of the container 60, the outline of the bottom of the container 60 is similar to the opening edge 62 of the container 60. The outline of the bottom of the container 60 is slightly smaller than the rectangular shape defined by the convex portion 31B of the fixed holder 31. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1, the edge of the bottom portion of the container 60 can be fitted into the area defined by the convex portion 31B of the fixed holder 31. In other words, the container 60 is held by the fixed holder 31, which is part of the oscillator RB.

[0054] 3, the container 60 has a pair of depressions 63. Each depression 63 is recessed in a rectangular shape toward the bottom side of the container 60. Each depression 63 is located on two opposing sides of the rectangular opening edge 62 of the container 60.

[0055] The auxiliary device 64 is a square ring. Therefore, when viewed in a direction along the central axis of the auxiliary device 64, the auxiliary device 64 is square. The length of the auxiliary device 64 in the direction along the central axis is longer than the depth of the recess 63 in the container 60. In addition, the outer shape of the auxiliary device 64 is similar to the opening edge 62 of the container 60. In addition, the dimensions of the auxiliary device 64 are slightly smaller than the dimensions of the opening edge 62 of the container 60.

[0056] The auxiliary tool 64 can be attached to the opening 61 of the container 60. Specifically, the auxiliary tool 64 can be fixed to the container 60 by inserting and fitting the auxiliary tool 64 inside the container 60. When the auxiliary tool 64 is fixed to the container 60, the side of the auxiliary tool 64 facing the opening 61 of the container 60 slightly protrudes from the opening edge 62 of the container 60. In other words, when the annular edge formed by tracing the edge of the auxiliary tool 64 and the opening edge 62 of the container 60, which is the edge farthest from the bottom of the container 60, is defined as the supply opening 65, the entire area of ​​the supply opening 65 is located on the same imaginary plane VP. In other words, the supply opening 65 is flush. In this embodiment, only the opening edge of the auxiliary tool 64 constitutes the supply opening 65.

[0057] <About the control unit> The supply device 10 includes a first control unit 81 and a second control unit 82. The first control unit 81 may be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software). The first control unit 81 may also be configured as a circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that execute at least some of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0058] The first control unit 81 controls the first motor 23 and the second motor 55. The first control unit 81 can control the opening angle of the container 60 by opening and closing the lid 39 through control of the first motor 23. The first control unit 81 also changes the opening angle of the container 60 depending on the elapsed time since the container 60 started to supply the object.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, when viewed in a direction along the lid rotation shaft 34, specifically, in the first negative direction X2, the angle formed between the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 and an imaginary plane VP along the supply port 65 is defined as the opening angle. The term "controllable and changeable opening angle" means that the state of the lid 39 can be maintained within a range from a state in which the lid 39 closes the opening 61 of the container 60 to a state in which the lid 39 is rotated to a predetermined maximum angle. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the opening angle is approximately 10 degrees. The larger the opening angle, the faster the supply speed at which the target object is supplied.

[0060] The first control unit 81 controls the second motor 55 to rotate the oscillator RB relative to the support member 22 around the rotation axis 21. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first control unit 81 rotates the oscillator RB approximately 210 degrees from a state in which the opening edge 62 of the container 60 faces the third positive direction Z1. As a result, the imaginary plane VP of the supply port 65 intersects with the direction of gravity. With this arrangement, when the lid 39 is opened, an object supplied from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 slides down the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 in the third negative direction Z2. The object then falls from the lid 39 and is supplied to the destination. Note that FIG. 4 does not illustrate one support member 22, one first motor 23, one base plate 24, and one driven pulley 25.

[0061] The first control unit 81 can also receive a detection result indicating whether the lid 39 is in a closed state relative to the container 60 from the open / close sensor 44. The first control unit 81 drives the first motor 23 and the second motor 55 only when the detection result indicates the closed state.

[0062] The second control unit 82 may be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software). The second control unit 82 may also be configured as a circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that execute at least some of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0063] The second control unit 82 controls the air vibrator 43. Specifically, the second control unit 82 changes one or more selected from the vibration direction, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and vibration intensity of the air vibrator 43 according to the elapsed time since the supply of the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 started. For example, after the object is placed in the container 60 and the oscillator RB is rotated by 180 degrees or more, the supply of the object from the container 60 starts when the lid 39 is opened. In this embodiment, the timing at which the supply of the object from the container 60 starts is the timing at which the lid 39 is opened relative to the container 60.

[0064] As time passes, the supply of the object may be delayed. The supply speed of the object may be maintained by changing one or more of the vibration direction, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and vibration intensity of the air vibrator 43 in accordance with the time. For example, the second control unit 82 increases the vibration intensity and vibration frequency of the air vibrator 43 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of supply of the object from the container 60.

[0065] <Operation of the supply device until the target object is supplied> Hereinafter, the operation of the supply device 10 from when the object is placed in the container 60 until when it is supplied to the destination will be described.

[0066] An object is placed in the container 60. The rocking body RB of the supply device 10 is positioned so that the mounting portion 30 faces the third negative direction Z2 and the lid 39 faces the third positive direction Z1. Then, as shown in FIG. 1 , the bottom of the container 60 in the third negative direction Z2 is fitted into the area defined by the protrusion 31B of the fixed holder 31. This fixes the container 60 to the mounting portion 30 so that the supply port 65 faces the third positive direction Z1. Then, the lid 39 is manually rotated until the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 contacts the supply port 65. Then, the fastener 41 is attached to the protective cover 38 to immobilize the arm 32 relative to the lid 39.

[0067] Next, the rocker RB is rotated. First, the bearing located between the driven pulley 25 and the rotary shaft 21 is set to a fixed state. Also, the bearing located between the cam 26 and the rotary shaft 21 is set to an open state.

[0068] The first control unit 81 is operated to drive the second motor 55. Drive of the second motor 55 rotates the drive pulley 53 together with the drive shaft 51. When the drive pulley 53 rotates, the torque of the drive pulley 53 is transmitted to the driven pulley 25 via the belt 54. Then, together with the driven pulley 25, the base plate 24, the joint 29, the frame 27, the mounting unit 30, and the fixed holder 31 rotate around the rotation shaft 21 as a rotation center. Furthermore, with the rotation of the driven pulley 25, members such as the protective cover 38 and the lid 39 indirectly fixed to the frame 27 also rotate around the rotation shaft 21 as a rotation center. That is, by driving the second motor 55, the rocker RB rotates around the rotation shaft 21 as a rotation center. Furthermore, the conversion mechanism CM and the container 60 with the auxiliary device 64 held by the rocker RB also rotate in accordance with the rotation of the rocker RB. That is, the cover 39 is rotatable relative to the frame 27. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, when the rotation angle of the rocker RB is set to approximately 210 degrees, the supply port 65 faces the third negative direction Z2 and the second negative direction Y2. In this way, by rotating the rocker RB, the supply port 65 is changed to face the third negative direction Z2.

[0069] Next, the cover 39 is changed to the open state. First, the bearing positioned between the driven pulley 25 and the rotary shaft 21 is set to the open state. Also, the bearing positioned between the cam 26 and the rotary shaft 21 is set to the fixed state.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 4, when the first motor 23 is driven, the cam 26 rotates together with the rotary shaft 21. When the cam 26 rotates, the distance from the rotary shaft 21 to the cam follower 33 changes, and the arm 32 including the cam follower 33 is lifted in the third negative direction Z2. In other words, the arm 32 rotates in the third negative direction Z2 coaxially with the rotation axis of the lid 39, i.e., the lid rotation axis 34. As the arm 32 rotates, the protective cover 38 also rotates in the third negative direction Z2 via the fastener 41, with the lid rotation axis 34 as its rotation axis. Then, the lid 39, which is fixed to the protective cover 38 via the damper 40, also rotates with the lid rotation axis 34 as its rotation axis.

[0071] This causes the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 to separate from the supply port 65. In other words, a gap is created between the container 60 and the lid 39 at the edge of the container 60 on the second positive direction Y1 side, which is located away from the lid rotation shaft 34. That is, the container 60 is in the open state. Then, the second control unit 82 starts vibration of the air vibrator 43.

[0072] When the container 60 is in the open state, the object slides down in the third negative direction Z2 along the inner surface 39A of the container 60. Then, when the object leaves the end of the inner surface 39A in the second negative direction Y2, the object is supplied to the supply destination.

[0073] <Effects of this embodiment> (1) In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 includes a conversion mechanism CM. According to the above configuration, the lid 39 can be opened and closed by applying a force to the conversion mechanism CM. That is, the lid 39 can be opened and closed when the lid 39 is covering the opening 61 of the container 60 and positioned below the container 60. The ability to open and close the lid 39 in this manner allows the opening angle of the container 60 to be adjusted, thereby adjusting the supply speed of the object being supplied from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60. For example, if the supply speed of the object being supplied from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 is too fast, the object may collide with the supply destination, causing dents or other damage that affect the appearance. Furthermore, if the supply speed of the object being supplied from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 is too slow, the object may stagnate, and it may take a long time for the object to be completely supplied to the supply destination. According to the above configuration, these supply speed-related issues can be suppressed.

[0074] (2) In the above embodiment, the lid 39 can be opened and closed by the force of the first motor 23. With this configuration, the opening angle of the lid 39 can be adjusted with high precision by the first motor 23. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the opening angle of the container 60 from varying each time the container 60 is supplied to the supply destination. For example, when the opening angle of the container 60 is changed, the distance between the lid 39 and the supply destination is changed. Therefore, with the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the target object from falling from a position higher than expected.

[0075] (3) In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 includes an auxiliary tool 64 that can be attached to the opening 61 of the container 60. When the supply port 65 is defined as the annular edge obtained by tracing the edge of the auxiliary tool 64 and the opening edge 62 of the container 60 that is farthest from the bottom of the container 60, the entire area of ​​the supply port 65 is located on the same imaginary plane VP. According to this configuration, by using the auxiliary tool 64, the supply port 65 can be aligned on the same plane regardless of the shape of the opening 61 of the container 60. In the example of the above embodiment, the auxiliary tool 64 has a function of blocking the recess 63 of the container 60. According to this configuration, the entire supply port 65 is easily brought into contact with the inner surface 39A of the lid 39. Therefore, the target object is less likely to leak from the container 60 when the rocker RB is rotated.

[0076] (4) In the above embodiment, the first control unit 81 changes the opening angle depending on the time elapsed since the supply of the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 started. With this configuration, the object can be supplied to the supply destination more efficiently when, for example, the number of objects in the container 60 decreases after the supply of the object starts and the supply to outside the container 60 is delayed.

[0077] (5) In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 is provided with an air vibrator 43 attached to the lid body 39 and vibrating the lid body 39. With this configuration, by vibrating the lid body 39, the objects on the lid body 39 tend to fall down along the slope of the lid body 39. In other words, by vibrating the lid body 39, the lid body 39 can be effectively used as a transport path for the objects.

[0078] (6) In the above embodiment, the vibrator is the air vibrator 43. By using the air vibrator 43 in this way, it is easy to handle. (7) In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 includes the damper 40. The damper 40 is located between the lid 39 and the protective cover 38. With this configuration, when vibrations are generated in the lid 39 by the air vibrator 43, the damper 40 makes it difficult for the vibrations to be transmitted to the protective cover 38. In other words, it is possible to suppress the vibrations of the lid 39 from being transmitted to the frame 27 via the protective cover 38.

[0079] (8) If the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 is parallel to the inner surface 39A of the container 60, the object on the lid 39 is likely to move back and forth on the lid 39 along the vibration direction in response to the vibration. Furthermore, if the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 is perpendicular to the inner surface 39A of the container 60, the object on the lid 39 is likely to jump up in a direction perpendicular to the inner surface 39A of the lid 39 in response to the vibration. That is, if the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 is parallel or perpendicular to the inner surface 39A, the air vibrator 43 does not have a vibration direction component that guides the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60, making it difficult to efficiently supply the object. In the above embodiment, when viewed from the direction along the rotation shaft 21, the virtual line VL along the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 is inclined with respect to both the inner surface 39A of the container 60 and the orthogonal line perpendicular to the inner surface 39A of the container 60. That is, in the above embodiment, the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 includes a directional component that guides the object in the direction in which it is supplied. Therefore, with the above configuration, the object can be efficiently supplied to the outside of the container 60.

[0080] (9) In the above embodiment, the second control unit 82 changes one or more selected from the vibration direction, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and vibration intensity of the air vibrator 43 according to the elapsed time since the supply of objects from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 has started. According to this configuration, by controlling each parameter of the air vibrator 43, it is possible to make it easier for the objects on the lid body 39 to fall along the slope of the lid body 39. For example, when the number of objects in the container 60 decreases after the supply of objects has started and the supply to outside the container 60 is delayed, the objects can be more efficiently discharged by increasing parameters such as the vibration intensity and the vibration frequency.

[0081] (10) In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 includes an open / close sensor 44 that can output a detection result indicating whether the lid 39 is in a closed state relative to the container 60. This configuration can prevent the rocker RB from rotating even when the lid 39 is not in a closed state.

[0082] <Example of change> The above-described embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0083] In the above embodiment, the specific configuration of the oscillator RB is not limited to that of the above embodiment as long as it has the frame 27, the mounting portion 30, and the lid 39. The oscillator RB may be any oscillator that is rotatable relative to the support member 22 around the rotation axis 21.

[0084] In the above embodiment, the specific shape of the lid body 39 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment as long as it can close the opening 61 of the container 60. For example, in the example of the state of the supply device 10 shown in Fig. 1, the dimension of the lid body 39 in the direction along the first axis X may become smaller as it moves toward the second negative direction Y2. In other words, the lid body 39 may be configured so that when the inner surface 39A is used as a transport path for the object, the transport path becomes narrower.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the lid 39 is not limited to one that rotates relative to the frame 27. In this case, the conversion mechanism CM may be one that can change the opening amount of the container 60, and does not necessarily have to include the cam 26, the arm 32, and the fastener 41.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the fastener 41 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment as long as it is a fixing jig that immovably connects the arm 32 to the lid body 39. For example, the lid body 39 may be immovably connected to the arm 32 with a bolt or the like.

[0087] In the above embodiment, the shape of the container 60 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment as long as it has the opening 61. Furthermore, the area defined by the convex portion 31B of the fixed holder 31 may be determined in accordance with the shape of the container 60.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the container 60 does not have to have the recess 63. In that case, the supply device 10 does not have to have the auxiliary device 64 that can be attached to the opening 61 of the container 60. When the supply device 10 does not have the auxiliary device 64, the opening angle may be the angle between the inner surface 39A of the lid body 39 and an imaginary plane that is along the opening edge 62 of the container 60 when viewed in a direction along the lid rotation shaft 34, specifically, when viewed in the first negative direction X2.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the shape of the auxiliary device 64 is not limited to annular. The shape of the auxiliary device 64 may be any shape that matches the recess 63 of the container 60. For example, in the case of the recess 63 of the container 60 shown in FIG. 3, the auxiliary device 64 may be a pair of plates. In this case, the auxiliary device 64 may be fixed to the container 60 with bolts or the like so that the main surface of the auxiliary device 64 covers the recess 63. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the supply port 65 may be formed not only by the opening edge of the auxiliary device 64 but also by a part of the opening edge 62 of the container 60.

[0090] In the above embodiment, an electric vibrator may be used instead of the air vibrator 43. Furthermore, the supply device 10 does not necessarily have to have a vibrator such as the air vibrator 43.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the supply device 10 does not have to include the damper 40. That is, the protective cover 38 and the lid 39 may be directly fixed to each other. Also, the supply device 10 does not have to include the protective cover 38.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the type of damper 40 is not limited to vibration-isolating rubber. For example, the damper 40 may be an air damper, an oil damper, etc. Furthermore, the number of dampers 40 is not limited to two.

[0093] In the above embodiment, when viewed from the direction along the rotation shaft 21, the imaginary straight line VL along the vibration direction of the air vibrator 43 may be perpendicular to the inner surface 39A of the container 60 and may be parallel to the inner surface 39A of the container 60.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the mechanism for rotating the oscillator RB is not limited to the one that uses the second motor 55. In the above embodiment, the first control unit 81 and the second control unit 82 may both be the same control unit. That is, the supplying device 10 does not necessarily have to include either the first control unit 81 or the second control unit 82. Also, in the above embodiment, the supplying device 10 does not necessarily have to include both the first control unit 81 and the second control unit.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the opening angle of the container 60 may be constant and not changed depending on the time elapsed since the supply of the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 began. In the above embodiment, the parameters of the air vibrator 43 that are changed do not have to be changed in accordance with a predetermined elapsed time. For example, the second control unit 82 may be instructed to change the parameters of the air vibrator 43 in accordance with the elapsed time.

[0096] In the above embodiment, parameters such as the vibration direction, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and vibration intensity of the air vibrator 43 may be constant and not changed according to the elapsed time from when the supply of the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60 is started. Furthermore, the timing of "starting the supply of the object from inside the container 60 to outside the container 60" is not limited to the timing when the lid 39 is opened relative to the container 60, but may be the timing when the lid 39 is positioned at a predetermined opening angle, etc.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the open / close sensor 44 is not limited to a fiber sensor. The open / close sensor 44 may be a magnetic sensor or the like provided at the supply port 65. In the case of a magnetic open / close sensor 44, when it comes into contact with the lid 39, it detects that the lid 39 is in a closed state relative to the container 60. The type of open / close sensor 44 can be changed depending on the target object and the configuration of the first component P1. Also, the supply device 10 does not have to be equipped with an open / close sensor.

[0098] <Additional Notes> The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described. [1] A supply device comprising: a support member that rotatably supports a rotating shaft; a oscillating body that can rotate relative to the support member around the rotating shaft; and a container that is held by the oscillating body and has an opening, wherein the oscillating body has a frame fixed to the rotating shaft; a mounting section that is fixed to the frame and on which the container can be placed; and a lid body that is connected to the frame and can open and close the opening of the container placed on the mounting section, and further comprising a conversion mechanism that transmits force from a power source as an opening and closing action of the lid body relative to the opening of the container and can change the opening size of the container.

[0099] [2] The supply device described in [1] further comprises a first control unit that controls a motor as the power source, and the first control unit is capable of controlling the opening angle of the container by opening and closing the lid through control of the power source, and changes the opening angle of the container depending on the elapsed time since the supply of the object from inside the container to outside the container began.

[0100] [3] A supply device as described in [1] or [2], further comprising an auxiliary device that can be attached to the opening of the container, and when the annular edge obtained by tracing the edge of the auxiliary device and the edge of the opening of the container that is farthest from the bottom of the container is taken as the supply outlet, the entire area of ​​the supply outlet is located on the same imaginary plane.

[0101] [4] The supply device according to any one of [1] to [3], further comprising a vibrator attached to the lid body and applying vibrations to the lid body. [5] The supply device according to [4], wherein the vibrator is an air vibrator that converts the pressure of compressed gas into vibration motion.

[0102] [6] The supply device according to [4] or [5], further comprising a damper interposed between the lid body and the frame, which damps vibrations transmitted from the lid body to the frame. [7] A supply device described in any one of [4] to [6], wherein when viewed from a direction along the rotation axis, a virtual line along the vibration direction of the vibrator is inclined with respect to both the inner surface of the container and an orthogonal line perpendicular to the inner surface of the container.

[0103] [8] The supply device according to any one of [4] to [7], further comprising a second control unit that controls the vibrator, wherein the second control unit changes one or more selected from the vibration direction, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and vibration intensity of the vibrator according to the elapsed time since the supply of the object from inside the container to outside the container began.

[0104] [9] The supply device according to any one of [1] to [8], further comprising an open / close sensor capable of outputting a detection result as to whether the lid is in a closed state relative to the container.

[10] A supply device described in any one of [1] to [9], wherein the lid body is rotatable relative to the frame, and the conversion mechanism includes a cam that rotates by force from the power source, an arm that is connected to the outer surface of the cam and is rotatable coaxially with the rotation center axis of the lid body, and a fixing jig that immovably connects the arm to the lid body. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] CM...Conversion mechanism RB...oscillating body VL...imaginary line VP...virtual plane 10…Feeding device 21...Rotation axis 22...Support member 23...First motor 30...Placement section 32...Arm 39...lid body 39A...Inside 40...Damper 42A...First member 42B...Second member 43...Air vibrator 44...Open / close sensor 60…Container 61...Aperture 62...Opening edge 64...Assistive devices 65...Supply port 81...First control section 82...Second control section

Claims

1. a support member that rotatably supports the rotation shaft; a swinging body that is rotatable relative to the support member around the rotation axis; a container held by the rocking body and having an opening; Equipped with The oscillator is a frame fixed to the rotation shaft; a mounting portion fixed to the frame and capable of mounting the container; a lid connected to the frame and capable of opening and closing an opening of the container placed on the placement section; and The device further includes a conversion mechanism that transmits a force from a power source as an opening / closing operation of the lid body relative to the opening of the container and can change the opening amount of the container. Feeding device.

2. a first control unit that controls a motor as the power source; The first control unit is capable of controlling an opening angle of the container by opening and closing the lid through control of the power source, and changes the opening angle of the container according to the elapsed time since the supply of the object from inside the container to outside the container started.

2. The feeding device of claim 1.

3. Further comprising an auxiliary device attachable to the opening of the container; When the annular edge obtained by tracing the edge of the auxiliary tool and the edge of the opening of the container that is farthest from the bottom of the container is taken as the supply port, the entire area of ​​the supply port is located on the same imaginary plane.

2. The feeding device of claim 1.

4. The cover further includes a vibrator attached to the cover and configured to apply vibrations to the cover.

2. The feeding device of claim 1.

5. The vibrator is an air vibrator that converts the pressure of compressed gas into vibration motion.

5. The feeding device of claim 4.

6. The apparatus further includes a damper interposed between the cover and the frame, for damping vibrations transmitted from the cover to the frame.

5. The feeding device of claim 4.

7. When viewed from a direction along the rotation axis, The imaginary line along the vibration direction of the vibrator is inclined with respect to both the inner surface of the container and an orthogonal line perpendicular to the inner surface of the container.

5. The feeding device of claim 4.

8. a second control unit that controls the vibrator; The second control unit changes one or more selected from a vibration direction, a vibration frequency, a vibration amplitude, and a vibration intensity of the vibrator according to an elapsed time from when the object starts to be supplied from inside the container to outside the container.

5. The feeding device of claim 4.

9. an opening / closing sensor capable of outputting a detection result as to whether the lid is in a closed state relative to the container; 2. The feeding device of claim 1.

10. the lid is rotatable relative to the frame, The conversion mechanism is a cam that rotates by force from the power source; an arm connected to an outer peripheral surface of the cam and rotatable coaxially with the rotation center axis of the lid body; a fixing jig that immovably connects the arm to the lid; have 2. The feeding device of claim 1.

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