Module unit, component mounting device, and method for attaching and detaching module unit

Abstract

The present invention provides a module unit that can be safely removed from a component mounting device, a component mounting device, and a method for attaching and detaching the module unit. [Solution] The paste transfer device 30 (module unit), which is detachably attached to the component mounting device, has a locking mechanism 35 for fixing the position of the paste transfer device 30 attached to the component mounting device, a lock release unit 43 for releasing the locking by the locking mechanism 35, and a limiting unit 45 for limiting the operation of the lock release unit 43.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a module unit that is detachably attached to a component mounting device, a component mounting device to which the module unit is attached, and a method for attaching and detaching the module unit.

Background Art

[0002] Various module units are attached to a component mounting device corresponding to a mounting method for mounting components on a substrate. Patent Document 1 discloses a component mounting device to which a paste transfer device (module unit) that supplies paste transferred to bumps is detachably attached, corresponding to a mounting method for mounting components having bumps formed on the lower surface on a substrate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Some of the conventional module units including Patent Document 1 are so heavy that they cannot be held with one hand or the position of the center of gravity is offset. The module unit is removed from the component mounting device during maintenance or the like, but there is a problem that skilled skill is required to remove a heavy and eccentric module unit from the component mounting device, and there is room for further improvement in order for an ordinary operator to safely remove the module unit

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a module unit, a component mounting device, and a method for attaching and detaching the module unit that can be safely removed from the component mounting device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The module unit of this disclosure is a module unit that is detachably mounted on a component mounting device, and comprises a locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting device, a release unit for releasing the locking by the locking mechanism, and a limiting unit for restricting the operation of the release unit.

[0007] The component mounting apparatus of the present disclosure is a component mounting apparatus on which a module unit is detachably mounted, wherein the module unit has a locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting apparatus, a lock release unit for releasing the locking by the locking mechanism, and a limiting unit that is operated by power and restricts the operation of the lock release unit, and the component mounting apparatus includes a power transmission unit for transmitting the power to the limiting unit.

[0008] The method for attaching and detaching a module unit according to the present disclosure is a method for attaching and detaching a module unit that is detachable from a component mounting device to the component mounting device, wherein the module unit has a locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting device, a lock release unit for releasing the locking by the locking mechanism, and a limiting unit that is operated by power and restricts the operation of the lock release unit, and the component mounting device has a power transmission unit for transmitting the power to the limiting unit, wherein the module unit is mounted on the component mounting device, the position of the module unit is fixed by the locking mechanism, and the power is transmitted from the power transmission unit to the limiting unit to restrict the operation of the lock release unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, the module unit can be safely removed from the component mounting device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A plan view showing the configuration of the main part of a component mounting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the configuration of the main parts of a component mounting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] A partial side view showing the configuration of the unlocking section of a paste transfer apparatus (module unit) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] An explanatory diagram of the pneumatic circuit of the limiting section of a paste transfer apparatus (module unit) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] (a)(b) A diagram illustrating the operation of the limiting unit when a paste transfer device (module unit) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is mounted on a component mounting device. [Figure 6] (a)(b) A diagram illustrating the operation of the limiting section when the paste transfer apparatus (module unit) of one embodiment of the present disclosure is removed from the component mounting apparatus. [Figure 7] (a)(b)(c)A diagram illustrating the process of mounting a paste transfer device (module unit) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure onto a trolley (replacement part). [Figure 8] (a)(b)(c) Diagram illustrating the process of removing a paste transfer device (module unit) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a trolley (replacement part). [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating the configuration of a key part of another embodiment of a component mounting apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] A diagram illustrating the process of removing a paste transfer device (module unit) from another embodiment of a component mounting device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] An embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The configurations, shapes, etc. described below are illustrative examples for illustrative purposes and can be modified as appropriate according to the specifications of the component mounting device, trolley (replacement unit), and paste transfer device (module unit). In the following, all corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in all drawings, and redundant explanations are omitted. In Figure 1 and some parts described later, the X-axis in the substrate transport direction (left-right direction in Figure 1) and the Y-axis in the substrate transport direction (up-down direction in Figure 1) are shown as two mutually orthogonal axes in the horizontal plane. In Figure 2 and some parts described later, the Z-axis (up-down direction in Figure 2) is shown as the height direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0012] First, the configuration of the component mounting apparatus 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The component mounting apparatus 1 has the function of performing component mounting work to manufacture a mounted circuit board by mounting components supplied from the component supply unit onto the circuit board.

[0013] In Figures 1 and 2, a substrate transport mechanism 3 is positioned along the X-axis in the center of the main body 2 (base). The substrate transport mechanism 3 transports substrates B from upstream, moves them to the mounting work position, positions them, and holds them. The substrate transport mechanism 3 also transports substrates B downstream after the component mounting work is completed. Component supply units 4 are positioned on both sides of the substrate transport mechanism 3 (in the front-rear direction of the Y-axis). The front component supply unit 4 is equipped with a trolley 6 that holds multiple tape feeders 5 and paste transfer devices 30 along the X-axis. The rear component supply unit 4 is equipped with a tray feeder 8.

[0014] The tape feeder 5 feeds a carrier tape, which has pockets for storing components D, in a pitch direction from the outside of the component supply unit 4 toward the substrate transport mechanism 3 (tape feeding direction), thereby supplying components D to the component removal position where the components D will be picked up by the head 11 described below. The tray feeder 8 supplies trays 7 containing components D such as large components, connectors, and communication modules to the component removal position. The paste transfer device 30 supplies a thin film of paste P, such as flux, which will be transferred to the electrodes of the components D picked up by the head 11, onto the supply tray 31.

[0015] In FIG. 2, the carriage 6 has wheels 6a on its lower surface and is movable on the floor of the floor where the component mounting device 1 is installed. That is, the carriage 6 is a replaceable part that can be attached to and detached from the main body 2 (base) of the component mounting device 1. Further, the paste transfer device 30 mounted on the carriage 6 (replacement part) is a module unit U that can be detachably mounted on the component mounting device 1.

[0016] In FIGS. 1 and 2, on both ends of the upper surface of the main body 2 in the X-axis direction, Y-axis tables 9 having linear drive mechanisms are arranged along the Y-axis. A beam 10 having a similar linear drive mechanism is movably coupled to the Y-axis table 9 along the Y-axis. The beam 10 is arranged along the X-axis. A head 11 is movably mounted on the beam 10 along the X-axis via a plate 10a. The head 11 is detachable from the plate 10a. The head 11 includes a plurality of mounting units 12. Nozzles 13 for sucking and holding the component D are respectively mounted on the lower ends of the mounting units 12.

[0017] The Y-axis table 9 and the beam 10 constitute a head movement mechanism 14 for moving the head 11 along the X-axis and the Y-axis. The head movement mechanism 14 and the head 11 perform a mounting cycle of sucking and taking out the component D from the tape feeder 5 or the tray feeder 8 arranged in the component supply unit 4 by the nozzles 13 mounted on the mounting units 12 and mounting it at the mounting position of the substrate B positioned by the substrate transfer mechanism 3. When mounting the component D with the paste P attached to the electrode on the substrate B, the head movement mechanism 14 and the head 11 move the nozzle 13 sucking the component D above the supply tray 3l of the paste transfer device 30, lower the nozzle 13 to attach (transfer) the paste P to the electrode, and then mount the component D at the mounting position of the substrate B.

[0018] In FIGS. 1 and 2, a component recognition camera 15 is disposed between a component supply unit 4 and a substrate transfer mechanism 3. When a head 11 that has taken out a component D from the component supply unit 4 moves above the component recognition camera 15, the component recognition camera 15 images the component D held by the head 11 to recognize the holding posture of the component D. A head camera 16 is attached to a plate 10a to which the head 11 is attached. The head camera 16 moves integrally with the head 11.

[0019] When the head 11 moves, the head camera 16 moves above the substrate B positioned by the substrate transfer mechanism 3, and images a substrate mark (not shown) provided on the substrate B to recognize the position of the substrate B. In the operation of mounting the component D on the substrate B by the head 11, correction of the mounting position is performed in consideration of the recognition result of the component D by the component recognition camera 15 and the recognition result of the substrate position by the head camera 16.

[0020] In FIGS. 1 and 2, a touch panel 17 operated by an operator is installed at a position where the operator works in front of the component mounting apparatus 1. The touch panel 17 displays various information on its display unit, and the operator inputs data and operates the component mounting apparatus 1 using operation buttons and the like displayed on the display unit.

[0021] Next, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the configuration of the paste transfer device 30 will be described. The paste transfer device 30 is mounted on the upper surface of a carriage base 6b provided on the upper part of a carriage 6 (replacement part). The paste transfer device 30 has a supply tray 31, a cylinder 33, and a film forming unit 34 disposed above a unit base 32 mounted on the carriage base 6b. The cylinder 33 supplies the paste P stored therein to the upper surface of the supply tray 31. The film forming unit 34 spreads the paste P supplied to the upper surface of the supply tray 31 with a squeegee member (not shown) to form a thin film. The supply tray 31 is disposed on the main body 2 side (front side) of the component mounting apparatus 1 in the unit base 32.

[0022] At the front of the paste transfer device 30 is a locking mechanism 35 having a locking member 35a that engages with a locking pin 6c located on the rear surface of the trolley base 6b of the trolley 6. The locking pin 6c is biased downward by a biasing means such as a spring (not shown), is movable upward, and its downward position is restricted by a position restricting means (not shown). When the paste transfer device 30 is mounted on the trolley 6, the locking pin 6c engages with a recess 35b formed on the upper part of the locking member 35a, fixing the paste transfer device 30 to the trolley 6 (see Figure 7(b)). In this way, the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) is fixed to the trolley 6 (replacement part) having the locking pin 6c by the locking mechanism 35.

[0023] In Figure 3, a lock release member 36 is positioned next to the lock member 35a in the X-axis direction. Behind the lock mechanism 35 is a lever member 38 that can rotate around a rotation axis 37 in the X-axis direction. One end of the lever member 38 is connected to the lock release member 36. One end of a wire 39 is fixed to the other end 38a of the lever member 38. The lever member 38 is biased by a biasing means (not shown) such as a spring in a direction that causes the other end 38a to rotate downward. Behind the lever member 38 is a handle 41 that can move in the Y-axis direction (forward and backward) along the slider 40. The forward position of the handle 41 is restricted by a stopper (not shown). The other end of the wire 39, via a roller 42, is fixed to the front of the handle 41.

[0024] When the handle 41 is pulled backward and the wire 39 moves backward, the other end 38a of the lever member 38 (the side behind the rotation axis 37) rotates upward. When the other end 38a of the lever member 38 rotates upward, the lock release member 36 moves (or rotates) upward. Then, the lock pin 6c that was engaged with the recess 35b is lifted by the lock release member 36 and disengaged from the lock member 35a (see Figure 8(b)). In other words, the lock release member 36, rotation axis 37, lever member 38, wire 39, slider 40, and handle 41 constitute a lock release section 43 that releases the lock mechanism 35 from fixing the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) to the trolley 6.

[0025] In Figure 3, a limiting section 45 is positioned behind the lever member 38, which includes an air cylinder 44 that is operated by compressed air. When compressed air is supplied to the air cylinder 44, the shaft 44a protrudes, and the head portion 44b located at the tip of the shaft 44a comes into contact with the other end 38a of the lever member 38. When the head portion 44b comes into contact with the other end 38a of the lever member 38, the other end 38a is unable to rotate upward, and the operation of the unlocking section 43 is restricted. In this way, the limiting section 45 restricts the operation of the unlocking section 43.

[0026] When the supply of compressed air to the air cylinder 44 is stopped, the shaft 44a retracts and the head portion 44b separates from the other end 38a of the lever member 38, allowing the other end 38a to rotate upward (see Figure 8(a)). In other words, the limiting portion 45 changes to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking portion 43 when the supply of compressed air (power) to the air cylinder 44 is cut off.

[0027] In Figures 1 to 3, the top of the paste transfer device 30 is provided with a rod-shaped handle 46 extending along the X-axis. Additionally, a concave hand-hold hole 47 is provided on the rear surface 30a of the paste transfer device 30. The operator grasps the handle 46 with one hand and places the other hand in the hand-hold hole 47 to hold the paste transfer device 30, thereby attaching and detaching it from the trolley 6.

[0028] Next, with reference to Figure 2, the power supplied from the component mounting device 1 to the paste transfer device 30 will be described. The paste transfer device 30 is supplied with compressed air and electricity from the component mounting device 1 via the trolley 6 (exchange section). The main body 2 of the component mounting device 1 is equipped with a positive pressure source 18 that supplies compressed air and a power source 19 that supplies electricity. Compressed air is supplied to the paste transfer device 30 via air piping 20 located in the main body 2 and air piping 21 located in the trolley 6. Electricity is supplied to the paste transfer device 30 via power cable 22 located in the main body 2 and power cable 23 located in the trolley 6.

[0029] In Figure 2, a first socket 24 is located on the rear surface of the main body 2, in contact with the trolley 6 which is mounted on the parts supply unit 4. A second socket 25 is located on the front surface of the trolley 6, corresponding to the first socket 24. When the trolley 6 is mounted on the parts mounting device 1, the second socket 25 is connected to the first socket 24, the air piping 21 of the trolley 6 is connected to the air piping 20 of the main body 2, and the power cable 23 of the trolley 6 is connected to the power cable 22 of the main body 2.

[0030] A third socket 26 is located on the rear surface of the bogie base 6b of the bogie 6, at a position that contacts the paste transfer device 30 mounted on the bogie base 6b. A fourth socket 27 is located in the paste transfer device 30 at a position corresponding to the third socket 26. When the paste transfer device 30 is mounted on the bogie 6, the fourth socket 27 is connected to the third socket 26, the air piping 28 located in the paste transfer device 30 is connected to the air piping 21 of the bogie 6, and the power cable 29 located in the paste transfer device 30 is connected to the power cable 23 of the bogie 6.

[0031] Thus, the air pipes 20, 21 and power cables 22, 23 function as power transmission units that transmit power (compressed air, electricity) supplied by the power sources (positive pressure source 18, power source 19) to the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U).

[0032] Next, the pneumatic circuit of the limiting section 45 of the paste transfer device 30 will be described with reference to Figure 4. The limiting section 45 includes an air cylinder 44 and an air valve 48. Compressed air supplied from the positive pressure source 18 is supplied to the air piping 28 via the air socket 27a of the fourth socket 27. The air socket 27a is equipped with a valve (not shown), which opens when the air socket 27a is connected to the air socket 26a of the third socket 26 (Figure 5), and closes when the air socket 27a is removed from the air socket 26a. When the valve of the air socket 27a is closed while compressed air is being supplied from the positive pressure source 18, compressed air remains in the air piping 28.

[0033] The air valve 48 has three terminals T1 to T3. Terminal T1 is connected to the air pipe 28. Terminal T2 is connected to terminal T4 of the air cylinder 44 via the air pipe 50. When the switch 49 on the air valve 48 is operated (pressed) from the outside, the connection relationship of terminals T1 to T3 inside the air valve 48 changes. When the switch 49 is not pressed, the air valve 48 is short-circuited between terminals T1 and T2, and terminal T3 is closed. This supplies compressed air to the air cylinder 44. When the switch 49 is pressed, the air valve 48 is short-circuited between terminals T1, T2, and T3.

[0034] Next, with reference to Figures 5 and 6, the function of the limiting section 45 provided in the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) will be explained.

[0035] FIG. 5 shows a state where the paste transfer device 30 is mounted on the carriage 6 (replacement part), and the carriage 6 is mounted on the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1. In this state, the air socket 24a of the first socket 24 and the air socket 25a of the second socket 25 are connected, and the air socket 26a of the third socket 26 and the air socket 27a of the fourth socket 27 are connected. Then, compressed air is supplied from the positive pressure source 18 to the terminal T1 of the air valve 48 provided in the restricting portion 45 through the air pipes 20, 21, 28. The air sockets 24a and 25a are provided with valves that open when connected to each other, similar to the air sockets 26a and 27a.

[0036] FIG. 5(a) shows a state where the switch 49 of the air valve 48 is not pressed. In this state, due to the short circuit between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, the compressed air supplied from the positive pressure source 18 is supplied to the terminal T4 of the air cylinder 44 through the air pipe 50. The compressed air supplied to the terminal T4 causes the air cylinder 44 to project the shaft 44a.

[0037] FIG. 5(b) shows a state where the switch 49 of the air valve 48 is pressed (arrow a) from the state of FIG. 5(a). In this state, the terminals T1, T2, and T3 are short-circuited. As a result, among the compressed air supplied from the positive pressure source 18 to the terminal T1, the flow rate Q1 flows to the terminal T2, and the flow rate Q2 flows to the terminal T3.

[0038] Here, the flow rate Q2 of the compressed air discharged to the outside from the terminal T3 is set to be less than the flow rate Q1 of the compressed air supplied to the terminal T4 of the air cylinder 44 (Q2 < Q1). Therefore, even when the switch 49 is pressed, the state where the air cylinder 44 projects the shaft 44a is maintained by the compressed air with the flow rate Q1 supplied to the terminal T4.

[0039] In other words, the flow rate Q2 of compressed air released when the switch 49 of the limiting unit 45 is operated is less than the flow rate (Q1 + Q2) of compressed air supplied from the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1. As a result, as long as the paste transfer device 30 is connected to the component mounting device 1 and compressed air is supplied from the positive pressure source 18, even if the switch 49 is accidentally operated, the limiting unit 45 maintains a state in which it restricts the operation of the unlocking unit 43. That is, when the trolley 6 (replacement unit) is attached to the main body 2 and compressed air is supplied from the positive pressure source 18, the limiting unit 45 does not change to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking unit 43.

[0040] Figure 6 shows the state in which the trolley 6 (replacement unit) to which the paste transfer device 30 is mounted has been removed from the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1. When the trolley 6 is removed from the main body 2, the valve of the air socket 25a of the second socket 25 closes, and the compressed air that was supplied from the positive pressure source 18 of the component mounting device 1 remains in the path including the air cylinder 44 (air piping 21, 28, 50, air valve 48). As a result, the state in which the air cylinder 44 has its shaft 44a protruding is maintained, and the state in which the limiting unit 45 restricts the operation of the lock release unit 43 is maintained (Figure 6(a)).

[0041] Figure 6(b) shows the state in Figure 6(a) after the switch 49 of the air valve 48 has been pressed (arrow b). When the switch 49 is pressed, a short circuit occurs between terminals T1, T2, and T3. As a result, the compressed air remaining in the path including the air cylinder 44 is released to the outside from terminal T3 of the air valve 48 (arrow c). Therefore, the air pressure at terminal T4 of the air cylinder 44 decreases, causing the shaft 44a to retract inward (arrow d), and the limiting part 45 becomes able to operate the unlocking part 43.

[0042] Thus, the air valve 48 of the limiting section 45 functions as an air release mechanism for releasing compressed air supplied to the air cylinder 44. The air valve 48 (air release mechanism) also has a switch 49 that releases compressed air when operated from the outside. Furthermore, the limiting section 45, which is operated by compressed air (power) supplied from the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1 via the trolley 6 (exchange section), can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the lock release section 43 when the trolley 6 is detached from the main body 2 (Figure 6(b)).

[0043] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the mounting process (method of attaching and detaching the module unit) for attaching the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) to the trolley 6 (replacement part) will be explained. Figure 7 schematically shows the locking mechanism 35, unlocking part 43, and limiting part 45 of the paste transfer device 30 that is mounted on the trolley 6, as well as the locking pin 6c of the trolley 6.

[0044] In Figure 7(a), the compressed air remaining in the air cylinder 44 of the limiting section 45 is released, the shaft 44a is retracted, and the head section 44b is separated from the other end 38a of the lever member 38. That is, the limiting section 45 is in a state that allows the operation of the lock release section 43. When the operator places the front of the paste transfer device 30 on the trolley base 6b of the trolley 6 and moves it forward, the locking member 35a of the locking mechanism 35 comes into contact with the locking pin 6c. When the operator moves the paste transfer device 30 further forward (arrow e1), the locking pin 6c is pushed upward by the locking member 35a (arrow e2).

[0045] In Figure 7(b), the operator further moves the paste transfer device 30 forward (arrow e3), and when the recess 35b of the locking member 35a moves below the locking pin 6c, the locking pin 6c moves downward and engages with the recess 35b (arrow e4), and the position of the paste transfer device 30 is fixed by the locking mechanism 35 (module unit fixing process).

[0046] In Figure 7(c), the trolley 6 to which the paste transfer device 30 is fixed is mounted on the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1 (arrow e5). When compressed air (power) is transmitted from the positive pressure source 18 to the limiting unit 45 via the air pipes 20, 21 (power transmission unit), the shaft 44a of the air cylinder 44 protrudes and the head portion 44b contacts the other end 38a of the lever member 38 (arrow e6). This restricts the operation of the lock release unit 43 (lock release restriction process). In this state, even if the operator presses the switch 49, the head portion 44b remains in contact with the other end 38a of the lever member 38. Furthermore, the operator cannot pull the handle 41 and therefore cannot remove the paste transfer device 30.

[0047] In this way, by attaching the trolley 6 (replacement unit) to the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1, compressed air (power) is supplied from the main body 2 via the trolley 6, and the operation of the lock release unit 43 is restricted (lock release restriction process).

[0048] Next, with reference to Figure 8, the removal process (method of attaching and detaching the module unit) for removing the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) from the trolley 6 (replacement part) will be explained. Figure 8 schematically shows the locking mechanism 35 of the paste transfer device 30, the unlocking part 43, the limiting part 45 of the paste transfer device 30, and the locking pin 6c of the trolley 6 in a state where the trolley 6 to which the paste transfer device 30 is fixed has been removed from the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1. That is, the trolley 6 has been removed from the main body 2, and the transmission of compressed air (power) to the limiting part 45 has been cut off (power cutoff process).

[0049] However, even when the trolley 6 to which the paste transfer device 30 is fixed is removed from the main body 2, the valve of the air socket 25a of the second socket 25 closes, and the compressed air supplied from the main body 2 remains in the path including the air cylinder 44 (air piping 21, 28, 50, air valve 48). As a result, the shaft 44a of the air cylinder 44 protrudes, and the state in which the limiting part 45 restricts the operation of the lock release part 43 is maintained (see Figure 6(a)).

[0050] In Figure 8(a), when the operator presses the switch 49 (arrow f1), the compressed air remaining in the air cylinder 44 is released by the air valve 48 (air release mechanism) (compressed air release step). As a result, the shaft 44a of the air cylinder 44 retracts and the head portion 44b separates from the other end 38a of the lever member 38 (arrow f2). As a result, the limiting portion 45 changes to a state that allows the operation of the lock release portion 43 (lock release allowance step). Once the compressed air is released, the operator stops pressing the switch 49.

[0051] In Figure 8(b), when the operator then pulls the handle 41 of the unlocking unit 43 (arrow f3), the other end 38a of the lever member 38 rotates upward (arrow f4), and the unlocking member 36 moves upward (arrow f5). Then, the unlocking member 36 moves upward, lifting the lock pin 6c (arrow f6), and when the lock pin 6c disengages from the recess 35b of the locking member 35a, the lock mechanism 35 releases the fixation of the paste transfer device 30 (unlocking step).

[0052] In Figure 8(c), the worker then uses the handle 46 and the grip hole 47 to hold the paste transfer device 30 and moves the paste transfer device 30 backward to remove it from the trolley 6 (arrow f7) (module unit removal process). As the paste transfer device 30 moves and the locking member 35a and the unlocking member 36 separate from the locking pin 6c, the locking pin 6c descends to its original height and stops (arrow f8).

[0053] As described above, when the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) is fixed to the trolley 6 (replacement unit) and mounted on the component mounting device 1, a part of the paste transfer device 30 is hidden by the cover of the component mounting device 1, and the worker cannot see the front of the paste transfer device 30. In this situation, if the worker attempts to attach or detach the paste transfer device 30, there is a risk of damaging the trolley 6 with the front of the paste transfer device 30, or of dropping the paste transfer device 30 because it cannot be placed on the trolley 6.

[0054] The paste transfer device 30 of this disclosure cannot be removed from the trolley 6 when the trolley 6 is attached to the component mounting device 1. Therefore, work in a dangerous condition that cannot be seen by the worker is suppressed. On the other hand, when the trolley 6 to which the paste transfer device 30 is fixed is removed from the component mounting device 1, and the worker can see the front of the paste transfer device 30, the paste transfer device 30 can be removed from the trolley 6. This allows the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1.

[0055] Next, with reference to Figure 9, another embodiment of the component mounting apparatus (hereinafter simply referred to as "Component Mounting Apparatus 1A") will be described. In Component Mounting Apparatus 1A, a mounting base 2a is arranged on the component supply section 4 of the main body 2A, on which multiple tape feeders 5 and a paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) are mounted. This differs from Component Mounting Apparatus 1, in that the paste transfer device 30 is mounted while fixed to a trolley 6 (exchange section). Hereafter, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those in Component Mounting Apparatus 1, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0056] In Figure 9, the main body 2A houses a positive pressure source 18, a power source 19, a power cutoff unit 60, and a control unit 61. A fifth socket 62 is located on the rear surface of the mounting base 2a, corresponding to the fourth socket 27 of the paste transfer device 30 mounted on the mounting base 2a. A lock pin 2b is located at the rear of the mounting base 2a, which engages with a recess 35b in the locking member 35a of the paste transfer device 30.

[0057] The power cutoff unit 60 has the function of allowing power (compressed air, electricity) supplied from the power source (positive pressure source 18, power source 19) to the paste transfer device 30 mounted on the mounting base 2a to pass through and also cutting off the power. The control unit 61 controls the power cutoff unit 60. Compressed air supplied from the positive pressure source 18 is transmitted to the power cutoff unit 60 through the air piping 63. The compressed air that has passed through the power cutoff unit 60 is transmitted to the fifth socket 62 through the air piping 64. Electricity supplied from the power source 19 is transmitted to the power cutoff unit 60 through the power cable 65. The electricity that has passed through the power cutoff unit 60 is transmitted to the fifth socket 62 through the power cable 66.

[0058] In Figure 9, when the paste transfer device 30 is mounted on the component mounting device 1A and the fourth socket 27 is connected to the fifth socket 62, the air piping 28 of the paste transfer device 30 is connected to the air piping 64 of the component mounting device 1A, and the power cable 29 of the paste transfer device 30 is connected to the power cable 66 of the component mounting device 1A.

[0059] In this state, when the control unit 61 controls the power cut-off unit 60 to allow power (compressed air, electricity) to pass through, the power (compressed air, electricity) supplied by the power source (positive pressure source 18, power source 19) is transmitted to the paste transfer device 30. Conversely, when the control unit 61 controls the power cut-off unit 60 to cut off the power, the power supplied by the power source is cut off and not transmitted to the paste transfer device 30.

[0060] Thus, the air pipes 63, 64 and power cables 65, 66 function as a power transmission unit that transmits power (compressed air, electricity) supplied by the power sources (positive pressure source 18, power source 19) to the limiting section 45 of the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U). The component mounting device 1A includes a power transmission unit (air pipes 63, 64, power cables 65, 66) that transmits power to the limiting section 45, a power interruption unit 60 that interrupts the power transmitted from the power transmission unit, and a control unit 61 that controls the power interruption unit 60. The limiting section 45 of the paste transfer device 30 is operated by power supplied from the component mounting device 1A.

[0061] Next, with reference to Figure 9, the mounting process (method of attaching and detaching the module unit) for attaching the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) to the component mounting device 1A will be explained. The mounting process for attaching the paste transfer device 30 to the component mounting device 1A is the same as the mounting process for attaching the paste transfer device 30 to the trolley 6, which was explained with reference to Figure 7, except that the trolley base 6b on which the paste transfer device 30 is attached is replaced with the mounting base 2a. The process will be explained step by step with reference to Figure 7.

[0062] In Figure 9, when the operator places the paste transfer device 30 on the mounting base 2a and moves it forward, the lock pin 2b of the component mounting device 1A engages with the recess 35b of the lock member 35a, and the position of the paste transfer device 30 is fixed by the lock mechanism 35 (module unit fixing process) (see Figure 7(b)). When the power cut-off section 60 is in a state where power (compressed air, electricity) is passing through, compressed air (power) is transmitted from the positive pressure source 18 to the limiting section 45 through the air pipes 63, 64 (power transmission section). As a result, the limiting section 45 is in a state where the operation of the lock release section 43 is restricted (lock release restriction process) (see Figure 7(c)). In this state, the operator cannot remove the paste transfer device 30 from the component mounting device 1A.

[0063] Next, with reference to Figures 9 and 10, the removal process (method for attaching and detaching the module unit) for removing the paste transfer device 30 (module unit U) from the component mounting device 1A will be explained.

[0064] In Figure 9, when removing the paste transfer device 30 from the component mounting device 1A, the operator first operates the touch panel 17 to instruct the start of the removal of the paste transfer device 30. Upon receiving the instruction, the control unit 61 cuts off the supply of compressed air (power) to the power cut-off unit 60 when the paste transfer device 30 is ready for removal (power cut-off process). This cuts off the compressed air (power) transmitted from the air pipes 63 and 64 (power transmission unit) to the limiting unit 45.

[0065] Next, when the operator presses switch 49 (arrow g1), the compressed air supplied to the air cylinder 44 is released (compressed air release step). As a result, the shaft 44a of the air cylinder 44 retracts, and the limiting part 45 changes to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking part 43 (unlocking allowance step) (see Figure 8(a)).

[0066] In Figure 10, when the operator then pulls the handle 41 (arrow g2), the unlocking member 36 moves upward, and the lock pin 2b, which has been lifted by the unlocking member 36, disengages from the recess 35b of the locking member 35a, releasing the lock mechanism 35 from fixing the position of the paste transfer device 30 (unlocking step) (see Figure 8(b)). The operator then uses the handle 46 and the handgrip hole 47 to hold the paste transfer device 30 and moves the paste transfer device 30 backward to remove it from the component mounting device 1A (arrow g3) (module unit removal step).

[0067] Although the above description uses the paste transfer device 30 as an example of module unit U, module unit U is not limited to the paste transfer device 30. For example, module unit U may be a nozzle holder that detachably houses a plurality of nozzles 13 that are attached to the mounting unit 12 of the head 11. Alternatively, module unit U may be an electrical characteristic measuring device that measures the electrical characteristics of components D such as resistors and capacitors.

[0068] As explained above, this disclosure discloses the following technical concepts.

[0069] (Technology 1) A module unit U (paste transfer device 30) that is detachably attached to a component mounting device 1,1A, A locking mechanism 35 that fixes the position of the module unit U mounted on the component mounting device 1,1A, A lock release unit 43 that releases the lock mechanism 35, A module unit U having a limiting unit 45 that restricts the operation of the unlocking unit 43.

[0070] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1,1A.

[0071] (Technology 2) The module unit U is fixed to the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1 by a locking mechanism 35 on a detachable replacement part (carriage 6). The module unit U according to Technical Reference 1, wherein the limiting part 45 can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking part 43 when the replacement part is removed from the main body part 2.

[0072] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1 with the replacement part detached.

[0073] (Technology 3) The limiting section 45 is operated by power (compressed air, electricity) supplied from the main body section 2 via the replacement section (bogie 6), as described in Technical 2, for the module unit U.

[0074] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1 with the replacement part detached.

[0075] (Technology 4) The module unit U described in Technical Reference 3 is configured such that the limiting section 45 can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking section 43 when the power supply (compressed air, electricity) is cut off.

[0076] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1 with the replacement part detached.

[0077] (Technology 5) The module unit U according to Art 3 or 4, wherein the power source is compressed air, and the limiting section 45 includes an air cylinder 44 that is operated by compressed air.

[0078] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1 with the replacement part detached.

[0079] (Technology 6) The module unit U according to Technical Reference 5 has an air release mechanism (air valve 48) for releasing compressed air supplied to the air cylinder 44 as a limiting section 45.

[0080] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed by releasing the remaining compressed air when the replacement part has been removed from the component mounting device 1.

[0081] (Technology 7) The module unit U according to Technical Reference 6 has an air release mechanism (air valve 48) which includes a switch 49 that releases compressed air when operated from the outside.

[0082] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed by operating the switch 49 to release the remaining compressed air while the replacement part is detached from the component mounting device 1.

[0083] (Technology 8) The module unit U described in Technical Reference 7, wherein the flow rate Q2 of compressed air released when switch 49 is operated is less than the flow rate (Q1 + Q2) of compressed air supplied from the main body 2.

[0084] This prevents the module unit U from being accidentally removed by operating the switch 49 while the replacement part is attached to the component mounting device 1.

[0085] (Technology 9) The limiting section 45 is operated by power (compressed air, electricity) supplied from the component mounting device 1A, and is the module unit U described in Technical Reference 1.

[0086] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A.

[0087] (Technology 10) The module unit U described in Technical Reference 9 is configured such that the limiting section 45 can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking section 43 when the power supply (compressed air, electricity) is cut off.

[0088] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A.

[0089] (Technology 11) The module unit U according to Art 9 or 10, wherein the power source is compressed air, and the limiting section 45 includes an air cylinder 44 operated by compressed air.

[0090] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A.

[0091] (Technology 12) The module unit U according to Technical 11, wherein the limiting section 45 has an air release mechanism (air valve 48) for releasing compressed air supplied to the air cylinder 44.

[0092] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A by releasing the remaining compressed air.

[0093] (Technology 13) The module unit U according to Technical Reference 12 has an air release mechanism (air valve 48) which has a switch 49 that releases compressed air when operated from the outside.

[0094] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A by operating the switch 49 to release the remaining compressed air.

[0095] (Technology 14) The module unit U described in Technical 13, wherein the flow rate Q2 of compressed air released when switch 49 is operated is less than the flow rate (Q1 + Q2) of compressed air supplied from component mounting device 1A.

[0096] This prevents the module unit U from being accidentally removed from the component mounting device 1A by operating the switch 49.

[0097] (Technology 15) A component mounting device 1,1A on which a module unit U (paste transfer device 30) is detachably mounted, Module unit U is, A locking mechanism 35 that fixes the position of the module unit U mounted on the component mounting device 1,1A, A lock release unit 43 that releases the lock mechanism 35, It has a limiting unit 45 that operates by power (compressed air, electricity) and restricts the operation of the unlocking unit 43, The component mounting device 1,1A is, A component mounting device 1,1A is provided with a power transmission section (air piping 20, 63, 64, power cables 22, 65, 66) that transmits power to the limiting section 45.

[0098] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1,1A.

[0099] (Technology 16) A power interruption unit 60 that interrupts the power (compressed air, electricity) transmitted from the power transmission unit (air piping 63, power cable 65), It comprises a control unit 61 that controls the power cut-off unit 60, The component mounting apparatus 1A described in Technical Reference 15, wherein the control unit 61 cuts off the power supply to the power cut-off unit 60 when the module unit U becomes detachable.

[0100] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A after the power supply has been shut off.

[0101] (Technology 17) A method for attaching and detaching a module unit U, which is detachable from a component mounting device 1,1A, to a component mounting device 1,1A, Module unit U is, A locking mechanism 35 that fixes the position of the module unit U mounted on the component mounting device 1,1A, A lock release unit 43 that releases the lock mechanism 35, It has a limiting unit 45 that operates by power (compressed air, electricity) and restricts the operation of the unlocking unit 43, The component mounting device 1,1A is, The limiting section 45 is equipped with a power transmission section (air piping 20, 63, 64, power cables 22, 65, 66) that transmits power. The module unit U is mounted on the component mounting device 1,1A. The position of the module unit U is fixed by the locking mechanism 35 (module unit fixing process), A method for attaching and detaching a module unit, comprising transmitting power from a power transmission unit to a limiting unit 45 to restrict the operation of a lock release unit 43 (lock release limiting step).

[0102] This prevents the module unit U from being accidentally removed from the component mounting device 1,1A.

[0103] (Technology 18) The module unit U is fixed to the main body 2 of the component mounting device 1 by a locking mechanism 35 on a detachable replacement part (carriage 6). The method for attaching and detaching a module unit as described in Technical Reference 17, wherein by attaching the replacement part to the main body part 2, power (compressed air, electricity) is supplied from the main body part 2 via the replacement part, and the operation of the lock release part 43 is restricted (lock release restriction step).

[0104] This prevents the module unit U from being accidentally removed while the replacement part is attached to the component mounting device 1.

[0105] (Technology 19) The replacement part (bogie 6) is removed from the main body 2, and the transmission of power (compressed air, electricity) to the limiting part 45 is cut off (power cutoff process). The lock release unit 43 is put into a state that allows its operation (lock release allowance step), The locking mechanism 35 releases the lock from fixing the position of the module unit U (unlocking step). The module unit U is removed from the replacement part (module unit removal process), as described in Technical 18 for the method of attaching and detaching the module unit.

[0106] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1 with the replacement part detached.

[0107] (Technology 20) The power (compressed air, electricity) transmitted from the power transmission section (air pipes 63, 64, power cables 65, 66) to the limiting section 45 is shut off (power shutoff process). The lock release unit 43 is put into a state that allows its operation (lock release allowance step), The locking mechanism 35 releases the lock from fixing the position of the module unit U (unlocking step). The module unit U is removed from the component mounting device 1A (module unit removal process), as described in Technical 17, for the method of attaching and detaching the module unit.

[0108] This allows the module unit U to be safely removed from the component mounting device 1A. [Industrial applicability]

[0109] The module unit, component mounting apparatus, and method for attaching and detaching the module unit described herein have the effect of allowing the module unit to be safely removed from the component mounting apparatus, and are useful in the field of mounting components onto a substrate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 1. 1A Component Mounting Equipment 2, 2A main body 6. Bogie (replacement part) 20, 21, 28, 50, 63, 64 Air piping (power transmission section) 22, 23, 29, 65, 66 Power cables (power transmission section) 30 Paste Transfer Device 35 Locking mechanism 43. Unlocking section 44 Air Cylinders 45 Restriction section 48. Air valve (air release mechanism) 60 Power cutoff section 61 Control Unit Q1, Q2 flow rate U Module Unit

Claims

1. A module unit that is detachably attached to a component mounting device, A locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting device, A lock release unit for releasing the lock mechanism, A module unit having a limiting unit that restricts the operation of the unlocking unit.

2. The module unit is fixed to the main body of the component mounting device by the locking mechanism, which is a detachable replacement part. The module unit according to claim 1, wherein the limiting portion can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking portion when the replacement portion is removed from the main body portion.

3. The module unit according to claim 2, wherein the limiting portion is operated by power supplied from the main body portion via the replacement portion.

4. The module unit according to claim 3, wherein the limiting portion can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking portion when the power supply is cut off.

5. The module unit according to claim 3, wherein the power source is compressed air, and the limiting portion includes an air cylinder operated by the compressed air.

6. The module unit according to claim 5, wherein the limiting portion has an air release mechanism for releasing the compressed air supplied to the air cylinder.

7. The module unit according to claim 6, wherein the air release mechanism has a switch that releases the compressed air when operated from the outside.

8. The module unit according to claim 7, wherein the flow rate of the compressed air released when the switch is operated is less than the flow rate of the compressed air supplied from the main body.

9. The module unit according to claim 1, wherein the limiting portion is operated by power supplied from the component mounting device.

10. The module unit according to claim 9, wherein the limiting portion can be changed to a state that allows the operation of the unlocking portion when the power supply is cut off.

11. The module unit according to claim 9, wherein the power source is compressed air, and the limiting portion includes an air cylinder operated by the compressed air.

12. The module unit according to claim 11, wherein the limiting portion has an air release mechanism for releasing the compressed air supplied to the air cylinder.

13. The module unit according to claim 12, wherein the air release mechanism has a switch that releases the compressed air when operated from the outside.

14. The module unit according to claim 13, wherein the flow rate of the compressed air released when the switch is operated is less than the flow rate of the compressed air supplied from the component mounting device.

15. A component mounting device in which module units are detachably attached, The aforementioned module unit is A locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting device, A lock release unit for releasing the lock mechanism, It has a limiting unit that is operated by power and restricts the operation of the unlocking unit, The aforementioned component mounting device is A component mounting device comprising a power transmission unit that transmits the power to the limiting unit.

16. A power interruption unit that interrupts the power transmitted from the power transmission unit, The system includes a control unit for controlling the power cut-off unit, The component mounting apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the control unit cuts off the power supply to the power cut-off unit when the module unit becomes detachable.

17. A method for attaching and detaching a module unit that is detachable from a component mounting device to the component mounting device, The aforementioned module unit is A locking mechanism for fixing the position of the module unit mounted on the component mounting device, A lock release unit for releasing the lock mechanism, It has a limiting unit that is operated by power and restricts the operation of the unlocking unit, The aforementioned component mounting device is The limiting section is equipped with a power transmission section that transmits the power, The module unit is mounted on the component mounting device, The locking mechanism fixes the position of the module unit, A method for attaching and detaching a module unit, comprising transmitting power from the power transmission unit to the limiting unit to restrict the operation of the unlocking unit.

18. The module unit is fixed to the main body of the component mounting device by the locking mechanism, which is a detachable replacement part. The method for attaching and detaching a module unit according to claim 17, wherein by attaching the replacement part to the main body, power is supplied from the main body via the replacement part, and the operation of the lock release part is restricted.

19. The replacement part is removed from the main body to interrupt the transmission of power to the limiting part. The lock release mechanism is set to a state that allows it to operate, The locking mechanism releases the locking mechanism from fixing the position of the module unit. The method for attaching and detaching a module unit according to claim 18, wherein the module unit is removed from the replacement part.

20. The power transmitted from the power transmission unit to the limiting unit is interrupted. The lock release mechanism is set to a state that allows it to operate, The locking mechanism releases the locking mechanism from fixing the position of the module unit. The method for attaching and detaching a module unit according to claim 17, wherein the module unit is removed from the component mounting device.

Images