Apparatus for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects and method for operating the same

Abstract

To provide an apparatus capable of conveying a plurality of flexible long objects in a state in which their holding positions in a longitudinal axis direction are aligned, and a method of operation thereof.SOLUTION: An apparatus 1 that conveys in parallel a plurality of flexible long objects 50 each having a first end 50A and a second end 50B in a longitudinal axis direction and being arranged at intervals from each other, includes a first holding portion 10 for holding a side of the first end 50A of the plurality of long objects 50, and a second holding portion 30 for holding a side of the second end 50B of the plurality of long objects 50, in which the first holding portion 10 includes one first roller 15, one or more first shafts 12 that support and rotatably drive the first roller 15, and a first rotating portion 11 having a first driving mechanism for rotatably driving the first shaft 12, and a plurality of second rollers 25 and a second rotating portion 21 having a plurality of second shafts 22 being parallel to the first shaft 12 and each supporting each one of the plurality of second rollers 25 and being arranged at intervals from each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for conveying a plurality of flexible elongated objects, such as resin tubes, and a method of operating the same. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a device that uses two pairs of rollers arranged opposite each other to hold a long, linear workpiece and rotates one of the two rollers to transport the workpiece (for example, Patent Document 1). This allows even a flexible workpiece to be transported while suppressing bending due to gravity. There is also known a device that transports multiple long, linear workpieces at the same time (for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-143092 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2001-226035 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As mentioned above, various devices have been proposed for continuously transporting long workpieces, but it has been difficult to transport flexible workpieces with small diameters and a fixed length precisely in batches. In order to precisely control the position of such workpieces while transporting them, it was necessary to transport the workpieces one by one, or, when transporting multiple workpieces, to place a drive device for each workpiece. In addition, since such workpieces are delicate and easily scratched, they are often transported manually.

[0005] Incidentally, when transporting multiple workpieces, two opposing rollers may hold and transport multiple workpieces, then release the workpieces, and then the two rollers may hold another multiple workpieces. In this case, the two rollers move so as to repeatedly contact and separate from the workpieces. However, if such a movement is performed at high speed to improve the efficiency of transporting the workpieces while performing precise transport, the impact force when the two rollers contact the workpieces becomes strong. As a result, the two rollers are likely to be misaligned, for example, in the direction of approach and separation. As a result, precise transport becomes difficult, and there is a risk that the workpieces will be held and transported in a misaligned state. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and an operating method thereof that can transport multiple flexible long objects with the holding positions aligned. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One embodiment of the transport device for multiple flexible elongated objects of the present invention, which has been able to solve the above problems, is a device for transporting multiple flexible elongated objects in parallel, each having a first end and a second end in a longitudinal direction and arranged at a distance from each other, comprising a first holding section for holding the first end side of the multiple flexible elongated objects, and a second holding section for holding the second end side of the multiple flexible elongated objects, the first holding section comprising a first roller, one or more first shafts supporting and rotating the first roller, a first driving mechanism for rotating the first shaft, and a second rotating section having multiple second rollers and multiple second shafts parallel to the first shaft, each supporting a multiple second roller, and arranged at a distance from each other. According to the transport device, since only one first roller is provided in the first rotating section, even if the first roller and the second roller are repeatedly brought into contact with the flexible elongated object at high speed, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller in the direction of approach and separation between the first roller and the second roller. Therefore, it is possible to align the positions of the multiple flexible elongated objects in contact with the first roller, and the multiple flexible elongated objects can be transported in an aligned state. Also, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller for a long period of time.

[0007] In the above conveying device, it is preferable that the second holding section comprises a third rotating section having a third roller, one or more third shafts supporting and rotatably driving the third roller, and a second drive mechanism rotatably driving the third shaft, and a fourth rotating section having a plurality of fourth rollers and a plurality of fourth shafts parallel to the third shaft, each supporting a respective one of the plurality of fourth rollers, and arranged at intervals from each other.

[0008] In the above conveying device, it is preferable that the rolling friction coefficient between the first roller and the flexible elongated object is greater than the rolling friction coefficient between the third roller and the flexible elongated object.

[0009] In the above-mentioned transport device, it is preferable that all the fourth rollers are free rollers.

[0010] In the above-mentioned transport device, it is preferable that all the second rollers are free rollers.

[0011] In the above conveying device, it is preferable that one second roller is disposed corresponding to one flexible elongated object.

[0012] In the above-mentioned conveying device, it is preferable that the first rotating portion has one first shaft, and that the one first shaft is disposed opposite all of the second shafts.

[0013] In the above-mentioned conveying device, it is preferable that the first rotating portion has a plurality of first shafts arranged at intervals from each other, and each of the plurality of first shafts is disposed opposite the second shaft.

[0014] In the above-mentioned transport device, at least one of the first rotating section and the second rotating section preferably includes a holding force adjustment mechanism that adjusts the force with which the flexible elongated object is held.

[0015] In the above-mentioned transport device, it is preferable that each of the plurality of second shafts is provided with a holding force adjustment mechanism.

[0016] In the above-mentioned conveying device, it is preferable that the first roller and the second roller each have a contact portion that contacts the flexible elongated object, and that the contact portion of the second roller is made of a softer material than the contact portion of the first roller.

[0017] In the above-mentioned conveying device, the second holding section comprises a third rotating section having a third roller, one or more third shafts supporting and rotatably driving the third roller, and a second driving mechanism rotatably driving the third shaft, and a fourth rotating section having a plurality of fourth rollers and a plurality of fourth shafts parallel to the third shaft, supporting each of the plurality of fourth rollers one by one and arranged at a distance from each other, and it is preferable that the third roller and the fourth roller each have an abutment portion that abuts against the flexible elongated object, and that the abutment portion of the fourth roller is made of a material that is softer than the abutment portion of the third roller.

[0018] In the above-mentioned conveying device, the second holding section comprises a third rotating section having one third roller, one or more third shafts supporting and rotatably driving the third roller, and a second driving mechanism rotatably driving the third shaft, and a fourth rotating section having multiple fourth rollers and multiple fourth shafts parallel to the third shaft, supporting each of the multiple fourth rollers one by one and arranged at a distance from each other, and it is preferable that the first roller, the second roller, the third roller and the fourth roller each have an abutment portion that abuts against the flexible elongated object, and that the abutment portion of the first roller, the abutment portion of the second roller, the abutment portion of the third roller and the abutment portion of the fourth roller are each made of a material softer than the flexible elongated object.

[0019] In the above-mentioned transport device, it is preferable that the first holding portion and the second holding portion are each movable in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis direction and the up-down direction of the first shaft.

[0020] The present invention also provides a method for operating a device for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects. One embodiment of the method for operating a device for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects of the present invention is a device for transporting a first flexible elongated object and a second flexible elongated object in parallel, the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object each having a first end and a second end in a longitudinal axis direction and arranged at a distance from each other, the device comprising a first holding part for holding the first end side of the first flexible elongated object and the first end side of the second flexible elongated object, and a second holding part for holding the second end side of the first flexible elongated object and the second end side of the second flexible elongated object, the first holding part including a first roller, one or more first shafts for supporting and rotating the first roller, a first roller for supporting the first roller, a first roller for supporting the first roller, a first roller for supporting the first roller, and a second roller for supporting the first roller. The gist of the method includes the steps of: preparing a conveying device including a first rotating section having a first drive mechanism that rotates and drives a first shaft, a plurality of second rollers, and a second rotating section having a plurality of second shafts that are parallel to the first shaft, each of which supports a plurality of second rollers, and which are arranged at intervals from each other; conveying a first flexible elongated object and a second flexible elongated object together a first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller; and conveying the second flexible elongated object a second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller. According to the above operating method, the positions of the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object in the longitudinal axial direction can be efficiently aligned.

[0021] In the above operating method, the conveying device further has a detection unit that detects a first adjustment amount, which is a conveying distance required for the first flexible elongated object, and a second adjustment amount, which is a conveying distance required for the second flexible elongated object, and the above operating method includes a step of detecting the first adjustment amount and the second adjustment amount before a step of conveying the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together a first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, and it is preferable that in the step of conveying the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together the first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, the first predetermined distance is equal to the first adjustment amount, and in the step of conveying the second flexible elongated object the second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, the second predetermined distance is equal to the difference between the second adjustment amount minus the first adjustment amount.

[0022] In the above-mentioned operating method, in the process of transporting a first flexible elongated object and a second flexible elongated object together a first predetermined distance by a first roller and a second roller, and in the process of transporting the second flexible elongated object a second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, it is preferable that at least one of the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object is transported by rotating the first rotating part. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the device for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects and the method for operating the same of the present invention, since only one first roller is provided on the first rotating section, even if the first roller and the second roller are repeatedly brought into contact with the flexible elongated objects at high speed, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller in the approaching and receding directions of the first roller and the second roller. Therefore, it is possible to align the positions of the flexible elongated objects in contact with the first roller, and the flexible elongated objects can be transported in an aligned state. It is also possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller for a long period of time. Furthermore, according to the method for operating the device for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects of the present invention, it is possible to efficiently align the positions of the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object in the longitudinal axial direction. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 shows a side view of a transport device for a plurality of flexible elongated objects according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is a front cross-sectional view of the conveying device shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] 3 is a front cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the conveying device shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 1. FIG. 4 is a side view showing a modified example of the conveying device shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is a front cross-sectional view of the conveying device shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 6 is a front cross-sectional view showing a modification of the conveying device shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of the first roller and the second roller shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a method of operating an apparatus for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a method of operating an apparatus for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a method of operating an apparatus for transporting a plurality of flexible elongated objects according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] The present invention will be described in more detail below based on the following embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and can be modified as long as it meets the purpose described above and below, and all of these modifications are included in the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, hatching and component symbols may be omitted in each drawing for convenience, but in such cases, the specification and other drawings should be referred to. In addition, the dimensions of various components in the drawings may differ from the actual dimensions because priority is given to helping understand the features of the present invention.

[0026] 1. Device for transporting multiple flexible long objects One embodiment of the conveying device for multiple flexible elongated objects of the present invention is a device for conveying multiple flexible elongated objects in parallel, each having a first end and a second end in the longitudinal direction and arranged at a distance from each other, comprising a first holding section for holding the first end side of the multiple flexible elongated objects, and a second holding section for holding the second end side of the multiple flexible elongated objects, the first holding section comprising a first roller, one or more first shafts supporting and rotating the first roller, a first driving mechanism for rotating the first shaft, and a second rotating section having multiple second rollers and multiple second shafts parallel to the first shaft, each supporting a multiple second roller, and arranged at a distance from each other. In the conveying device, only one first roller is provided in the first rotating section. Therefore, even if the first roller and the second roller are repeatedly brought into contact with the flexible elongated object at high speed, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller in the approaching and separating directions of the first roller and the second roller. Therefore, it is possible to align the positions of the multiple flexible elongated objects in contact with the first roller, and the multiple flexible elongated objects can be transported in an aligned state. Also, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the first roller for a long period of time.

[0027] Hereinafter, the conveying device for a plurality of flexible elongated objects may be simply referred to as a "conveying device", and the flexible elongated objects may be simply referred to as "elongated objects". The basic configuration of the conveying device will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 6. Fig. 1 shows a side view of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 2 shows a front cross-sectional view of the conveying device shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 shows a front cross-sectional view of a modified version of the conveying device shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows a side view of a modified version of the conveying device shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 5 shows a front cross-sectional view of the conveying device shown in Fig. 4, and Fig. 6 shows a front cross-sectional view of a modified version of the conveying device shown in Fig. 5. In the spatial coordinates of each drawing, the x direction is the conveying direction of the elongated objects, the y direction is the up-down direction, and the z direction is the longitudinal axis direction of the first shaft 12. The x, y, and z directions are mutually orthogonal. The conveying device 1 includes a first holding unit 10 and a second holding unit 30. Note that Figs. 2 to 3 and Figs. 5 to 6 will be described by taking an apparatus for conveying three elongated objects 50 as an example.

[0028] The conveying device 1 is a device 1 that conveys multiple long objects 50 arranged at intervals in parallel. In detail, in the conveying device 1, the long objects 50 are sent out in a specific direction by the rotation of a first roller 15 and a second roller 25 of a first holding unit 10 described later. The direction in which the long objects 50 are conveyed is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to convey them in a horizontal direction. When three or more long objects 50 are conveyed, the intervals between the aligned long objects 50 may be constant or may be different from each other. In Figs. 2-3 and Figs. 5-6, the three long objects 50 are arranged at approximately equal intervals.

[0029] The flexible elongated object 50 to be transported has a first end 50A and a second end 50B in the longitudinal direction. The first end 50A side of the elongated object 50 in the longitudinal direction means the side including the first end 50A when the elongated object 50 is divided into two equal parts in the longitudinal direction. The second end 50B side of the elongated object 50 in the longitudinal direction means the side including the second end 50B when the elongated object 50 is divided into two equal parts in the longitudinal direction.

[0030] The shape of the long object 50 is not particularly limited and may be solid or hollow. The long object 50 may be partially hollow. The long object 50 may have elasticity. The length of the long object 50 transported by the transport device 1 is, for example, 30 cm to 100 cm, and the diameter is, for example, 0.1 mm to 5 mm. In this way, the long object 50 may be a workpiece having an elongated shape. By making the length of the long object 50 within the above range, it becomes easier to hold, transport, and release the long object 50 by the first holding unit 10 and the second holding unit 30, and to heat, expand, stretch, and other processes of the long object 50 in the process after transport.

[0031] Examples of materials constituting the long object 50 include resins and metals. Examples of resins constituting the long object 50 include polyamide-based resins, polyester-based resins, polyurethane-based resins, polyolefin-based resins, fluorine-based resins, vinyl chloride-based resins, silicone-based resins, and natural rubber. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Examples of metals constituting the long object 50 include stainless steels such as SUS304 and SUS316, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, titanium, tungsten, gold, Ni-Ti alloys, Co-Cr alloys, and combinations thereof.

[0032] The long object 50 also includes a long body made of resin or metal, the surface of which is coated with resin or metal. The long object 50 is preferably a resin tube, more preferably a fluorine-based resin tube or a polyamide-based resin tube. The long object 50 is preferably an industrial or medical resin tube, more preferably a medical resin tube, even more preferably a resin tube for a balloon catheter, and particularly preferably a resin tube for balloon molding.

[0033] The first holding part 10 is a member that holds the first ends 50A of the multiple flexible elongated objects 50. The holding position of the elongated objects 50 by the first holding part 10 is not particularly limited, and the first holding part 10 may hold a position including the first ends 50A of the elongated objects 50, or may hold a position closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the elongated objects 50 than the first ends 50A. It is sufficient that the elongated objects 50 are held in a straight state between the first holding part 10 and the second holding part 30. A part of the elongated object 50 may be wound up by a winder (not shown).

[0034] The second holding part 30 is a member that holds the second ends 50B of the multiple flexible elongated objects 50. The holding position of the elongated objects 50 by the second holding part 30 is not particularly limited, and the second holding part 30 may hold a position including the second ends 50B of the elongated objects 50, or may hold a position closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the elongated objects 50 than the second ends 50B.

[0035] In order to prevent deformation of the long objects 50 or to facilitate processing and transportation of the long objects 50, it is preferable that multiple long objects 50 are held horizontally by the first holding portion 10 and the second holding portion 30.

[0036] The first holding section 10 will be described in detail. The first holding section 10 has a function of holding the long object 50 and sending it out in at least one direction. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the first holding section 10 includes a first rotating section 11 and a second rotating section 21. As shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 to FIG. 6, the first rotating section 11 includes one first roller 15, one or more first shafts 12 that support and rotate the first roller 15, and a first drive mechanism 18 that rotates the first shaft 12. The second rotating section 21 includes multiple second rollers 25 and multiple second shafts 22 that are parallel to the first shaft 12, support the multiple second rollers 25 one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other. In the above-mentioned conveying device 1, only one first roller 15 is provided in the first rotating section 11. Therefore, even if the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 are repeatedly brought into contact with the flexible elongated object 50 at high speed, it is possible to suppress misalignment of the first roller 15 in the direction in which the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 approach and separate from each other. Therefore, it is possible to align the positions of multiple flexible elongated objects 50 that are in contact with the first roller 15, and the multiple elongated objects 50 can be transported in an aligned state. It is also possible to suppress misalignment of the first roller 15 over a long period of time.

[0037] The above-described conveying device 1 can further provide the following effects. Since only one first roller 15 is provided on the first rotating part 11, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of differences in peripheral speed caused by variations in the dimensions and shapes of the roller components, compared to a case in which multiple first rollers 15 are provided on the first rotating part 11. In addition, by increasing the number of second rollers 25, it is possible to increase the number of long objects 50 that can be conveyed together, and the conveying device 1 has excellent scalability and a high degree of freedom in design.

[0038] In the first holding section 10, the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 approach each other to sandwich and hold the long object 50, and the approaching first roller 15 and the second roller 25 move away from each other to release the holding of the long object 50. The long object 50 in contact with the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 is fed and conveyed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the first roller 15 as the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 rotate. By feeding the long object 50, the holding position of the long object 50 in the longitudinal direction of the long object 50 can also be changed. The first roller 15 comes into contact with a plurality of long objects 50.

[0039] In the first rotating section 11, one first roller 15 is supported by one or more first shafts 12. In Figs. 2 and 5, one first roller 15 is supported by one first shaft 12. This can further suppress the positional deviation of the first roller 15 in the direction in which the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 approach and move away from each other. In addition, the difference in circumferential speed of the first roller 15 is less likely to occur compared to when one first roller 15 is supported by multiple first shafts 12. Therefore, the positions of the multiple flexible elongated objects 50 in contact with the first roller 15 are more likely to be aligned, and the multiple elongated objects 50 can be transported in an aligned state.

[0040] It is preferable that the first rotating portion 11 has one first shaft 12, and that one first shaft 12 is disposed opposite all of the second shafts 22. This makes it possible to suppress misalignment of the second rollers 25 relative to the first rollers 15, making it easier to transport a plurality of long objects 50 in an aligned state.

[0041] A single first roller 15 may be supported by multiple first shafts 12. In this case, it is preferable that the multiple first shafts 12 are arranged at intervals from each other. For example, in Figs. 3 and 6, a single first roller 15 is supported by two first shafts 12. By providing multiple first shafts 12 on the first rotating part 11, it is possible to replace only the first shafts 12 that need to be replaced due to wear or damage during maintenance. In addition, the total weight of the first shafts 12 can be reduced compared to the embodiment shown in Figs. 2 and 5.

[0042] 3 and 6, the first rotating section 11 has a plurality of first shafts 12 arranged at intervals from each other, and each of the plurality of first shafts 12 is preferably arranged facing the second shaft 22. Since the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 are arranged facing each other, it is easy to suppress the second roller 25 from shifting in position relative to the first roller 15. In addition, it is easy to reliably hold one flexible elongated object 50 between the first roller 15 and the second roller 25.

[0043] The number of first shafts 12 provided in first rotating part 11 is not particularly limited, but is preferably two or less, and more preferably one. This makes it easier for first rotating part 11 to support first shaft 12.

[0044] In the second rotating section 21, it is preferable that one second shaft 22 supports one second roller 25, and one second shaft 22 does not support multiple second rollers 25. Furthermore, when the first rotating section 11 and the second rotating section 21 hold multiple elongated objects 50, it is preferable that one second roller 25 contacts only one elongated object 50 at a time, and does not contact multiple elongated objects 50. This makes it possible to adjust the holding force for each elongated object 50.

[0045] The number of second shafts 22 is not particularly limited, but is preferably the same as the number of long objects 50 transported simultaneously by the transport device 1.

[0046] The numbers of first shafts 12 and second shafts 22 may be the same or different in the first holding part 10. As shown in Figures 2 to 3 and Figures 5 to 6, the number of first shafts 12 may be less than the number of second shafts 22.

[0047] The number of second rollers 25 is greater than the number of first rollers 15. The number of second rollers 25 is preferably the same as the number of long objects 50 simultaneously transported by the transport device 1. In this manner, it is preferable that one second roller 25 is disposed corresponding to one long object 50. Since one second roller 25 contacts one long object 50, it becomes easier to apply an appropriate load to each long object 50. The number of second rollers 25 is preferably the same as the number of second shafts 22.

[0048] When two first shafts 12 are provided in the first holding part 10, one first shaft 12 may be disposed opposite a plurality of second shafts 22. One second shaft 22 may be disposed opposite a plurality of first shafts 12.

[0049] The vertical positional relationship between the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 is not particularly limited. In the first holding unit 10 of Figs. 1 to 3, the first roller 15 is disposed above the second roller 25. In the first holding unit 10 of Figs. 4 to 6, the second roller 25 is disposed above the first roller 15. By disposing the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 above and below in this manner, it becomes easier to transport the long object 50 in the horizontal direction.

[0050] 1 to 3, in order to arrange the first rollers 15 above the second rollers 25, all of the first shafts 12 should be arranged above all of the second shafts 22. Moreover, in order to arrange the second rollers 25 above the first rollers 15 as in FIGS. 4 to 6, all of the second shafts 22 should be arranged above all of the first shafts 12.

[0051] Although not shown, the elongated object 50 may be transported in a direction other than the horizontal direction, for example, a direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction, by the transport device 1. To this end, the first shaft 12 and the second shaft 22 may be disposed on the same horizontal plane.

[0052] The first roller 15 is a drive roller because it is supported by the rotationally driven first shaft 12. The rotationally driven first roller 15 comes into contact with the elongated object 50, thereby making it possible to transport the elongated object 50 in a specific direction.

[0053] For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the first rotating unit 11 includes a first drive mechanism 18 for driving the first shaft 12 to rotate. The first drive mechanism 18 is connected to the first shaft 12. The first shaft 12 is rotated by the first drive mechanism 18. The first shaft 12 and the first roller 15 need to be configured such that the rotation of the first shaft 12 is transmitted to the first roller 15, and the first roller 15 is rotated by the first drive mechanism 18.

[0054] The second roller 25 is preferably a free roller that rotates with the movement of the elongated object 50. Here, the free roller is a roller that is not connected to a rotation drive source. Since the second roller 25 is a free roller, only the first rotating part 11 of the first holding part 10 is provided with a rotation drive source, and it becomes easy to apply an appropriate load to the elongated object 50, so that the elongated object 50 can be transported while suppressing deflection due to gravity. When the second roller 25 is a free roller, the second roller 25 is only supported by the second shaft 22, and the second shaft 22 does not need to rotate due to the rotation of the second roller 25, and the second shaft 22 may rotate due to the rotation of the second roller 25.

[0055] It is preferable that all of the second rollers 25 are free rollers. This makes it easier to apply an appropriate load to all of the elongated objects 50, and therefore makes it possible to transport a plurality of elongated objects 50 while suppressing deflection due to gravity.

[0056] Some or all of the multiple second rollers 25 may be drive rollers. In this way, the second rollers 25, together with the first rollers 15, come into contact with the elongated object 50, making it easier to transport the elongated object 50 in a specific direction.

[0057] Although not shown, the transport device 1 may have one or more drive rollers and one or more free rollers as the second rollers 25.

[0058] At least one of the first rotating section 11 and the second rotating section 21 is preferably provided with a holding force adjustment mechanism that adjusts the force with which the flexible elongated object 50 is held. This makes it possible to adjust the magnitude of the holding force with which the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 hold the elongated object 50. In Figs. 1 and 4, a holding force adjustment mechanism 28 is connected to the second shaft 22. The holding force adjustment mechanism 28 is movable in the vertical direction along a rail 29.

[0059] In the holding force adjustment mechanism, it is preferable to adjust the holding force of the elongated object 50 by adjusting the thrust of at least one of the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 against the elongated object 50. Examples of such holding force adjustment mechanisms include power cylinders such as air cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, water pressure cylinders, and electric actuators. The power cylinder may have a configuration including a cylinder tube and a piston rod slidably inserted into the cylinder tube and connected to at least one of the first shaft 12 and the second shaft 22. The piston rod is extended and retracted by converting the rotational force of a motor in the case of an electric actuator, or air pressure in the case of an air cylinder, into linear motion of the piston rod.

[0060] Each of the second shafts 22 preferably includes a holding force adjustment mechanism 28. Since the holding force of each second roller 25 can be adjusted individually by the holding force adjustment mechanism 28, it becomes easier for each second roller 25 to hold the elongated object 50 even if the elongated objects 50 have different outer diameters or flexibilities.

[0061] It is preferable that the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 each have a contact portion that contacts the elongated object 50. Hereinafter, the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 may be referred to as each roller. The outer peripheral surface of each roller may be the contact portion. Also, a portion including the outer peripheral surface of each roller, for example, a radially outer portion of each roller may be the contact portion.

[0062] The first roller 15 and the second roller 25 may each have a non-contact portion that does not contact the elongated object 50. For example, the non-contact portion may be a portion inward from the contact portion in the radial direction of the roller. The contact portion may include at least the outer circumferential surface of the roller, and the boundary between the contact portion and the non-contact portion is not particularly limited. FIG. 7 is an enlarged side view of the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 7, the portion including the outer circumferential surface of the first roller 15 is the contact portion 16, and the portion inward from the contact portion 16 in the radial direction is the non-contact portion 17. Also, the portion including the outer circumferential surface of the second roller 25 is the contact portion 26, and the portion inward from the contact portion 26 in the radial direction is the non-contact portion 27.

[0063] The contacting portion and the non-contacting portion of each roller may be made of the same material or may be made of different materials.

[0064] The material constituting each roller can be referred to in the description of the material constituting the long object 50, but is preferably rubber or elastomer. Each roller preferably contains a material with a Shore D hardness of 15 or more, more preferably a material with a Shore D hardness of 20 or more, even more preferably a material with a Shore D hardness of 25 or more, and particularly preferably a material with a Shore D hardness of 30 or more. Each roller may contain a material with a Shore D hardness of 60 or less. This allows each roller to have an appropriate hardness, so that an appropriate load can be applied to the long object 50. The Shore D hardness is measured based on ISO868:2003 Plastic Durometer Hardness Test Method.

[0065] When in contact with the elongated object 50, it is preferable that at least one of the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 bites into the elongated object 50. By deforming each roller in this manner, an appropriate load can be applied to the elongated object 50.

[0066] Each of the first roller 15 and the second roller 25 has a contact portion that contacts the elongated object 50, and it is preferable that the contact portion 26 of the second roller 25 is made of a material that is softer than the contact portion 16 of the first roller 15. Since the first roller 15, which is the drive roller, is less likely to deform than the second roller 25, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the conveying accuracy of the elongated object 50 caused by a change in the rotation radius of the first roller 15.

[0067] The first roller 15 and the second roller 25 each have a contact portion that contacts the elongated object 50, and the contact portion 16 of the first roller 15 and the contact portion 26 of the second roller 25 are preferably made of a material that is softer than the elongated object 50. This makes it possible for the rollers to deform more easily than the elongated object 50 when the elongated object 50 is held by the first roller 15 and the second roller 25, so that the elongated object 50 can be held firmly and deformation of the elongated object 50 can be suppressed.

[0068] A detailed description will be given of the second holding section 30. The second holding section 30 may have a similar configuration to the first holding section 10, or may have a different configuration from the first holding section 10.

[0069] As shown in Figs. 1 and 4, the second holding unit 30 preferably includes a third rotating unit 31 and a fourth rotating unit 41. The third rotating unit 31 preferably includes one third roller 35, one or more third shafts 32 that support and rotate the third roller 35, and a second drive mechanism (not shown) that rotates the third shaft 32. The fourth rotating unit 41 preferably includes a plurality of fourth rollers 45, and a plurality of fourth shafts 42 that are parallel to the third shaft 32, support each of the plurality of fourth rollers 45, and are arranged at intervals from each other. Since the second holding unit 30 includes the third rotating unit 31 and the fourth rotating unit 41 in this way, an appropriate load can be applied to the long object 50 when the long object 50 is transported by the first holding unit 10, and thus bending of the long object 50 due to gravity can be suppressed. Furthermore, by rotating the third rotating portion 31 and the fourth rotating portion 41, the long object 50 can be easily transported in both the x direction in FIG. 1 and the direction opposite to the x direction.

[0070] It is preferable that the third shaft 32 and the fourth shaft 42 are each parallel to the first shaft 12. This aligns the rotational axis directions of the first rotating part 11, the second rotating part 21, the third rotating part 31 and the fourth rotating part 41, making it easier to transport the elongated object 50 by their rotation.

[0071] For the configuration of the third shaft 32, the description of the first shaft 12 of the first rotating unit 11 can be referred to. For the configuration of the third roller 35, the description of the first roller 15 of the first rotating unit 11 can be referred to. For the configuration of the fourth shaft 42, the description of the second shaft 22 of the second rotating unit 21 can be referred to. For the configuration of the fourth roller 45, the description of the second roller 25 of the second rotating unit 21 can be referred to.

[0072] The fourth roller 45 is preferably a free roller that rotates in association with the movement of the elongated object 50. By using the fourth roller 45 as a free roller, only the third rotating section 31 in the second holding section 30 is provided with a rotation drive source, and it becomes easier to apply an appropriate load to the elongated object 50, so that it becomes possible to transport the elongated object 50 while suppressing deflection due to gravity. When the fourth roller 45 is a free roller, the fourth roller 45 is only supported by the fourth shaft 42, and the fourth shaft 42 does not need to rotate due to the rotation of the fourth roller 45, and the fourth shaft 42 may rotate due to the rotation of the fourth roller 45.

[0073] It is preferable that all of the fourth rollers 45 are free rollers. This makes it easier to apply an appropriate load to all of the elongated objects 50, and therefore makes it possible to transport a plurality of elongated objects 50 while suppressing deflection due to gravity.

[0074] The vertical positional relationship between the third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45 is not particularly limited. In FIG. 1, the third roller 35 is disposed above the fourth roller 45. In FIG. 4, the fourth roller 45 is disposed above the third roller 35. Of the third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45, the roller disposed at the upper side is preferably a free roller. This allows an appropriate load to be applied to the elongated object 50 by the weight of the roller disposed at the upper side.

[0075] As in the first holding unit 10, at least one of the third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45 is preferably provided with a holding force adjustment mechanism for adjusting the force with which the long object 50 is held. This allows the magnitude of the holding force with which the long object 50 is held by the third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45 to be adjusted. In Figs. 1 and 4, a holding force adjustment mechanism 48 is connected to the fourth shaft 42. The holding force adjustment mechanism 48 is movable in the up and down direction along a rail 49. In the holding force adjustment mechanism, it is preferable to adjust the holding force of the long object 50 by adjusting the thrust of at least one of the third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45 against the long object 50. In addition, it is preferable that each of the multiple fourth rollers 45 is provided with a holding force adjustment mechanism 48.

[0076] It is preferable that the rolling friction coefficient between the first roller 15 and the elongated object 50 is greater than the rolling friction coefficient between the third roller 35 and the elongated object 50. This makes the third roller 35 more likely to slip than the first roller 15, so that the first roller 15 can transport the elongated object 50 while the third roller 35 suppresses bending of the elongated object 50 due to gravity.

[0077] Although not shown, the third rotating unit 31 preferably includes a second drive mechanism for driving the third shaft 32 to rotate. The second drive mechanism is connected to the third shaft 32. The third shaft 32 is rotated by the second drive mechanism. The third shaft 32 and the third roller 35 need to be configured such that the rotation of the third shaft 32 is transmitted to the third roller 35, and the third roller 35 is rotated by the second drive mechanism.

[0078] In order to make the third roller 35 slip during the process of conveying the long object 50 toward the first holding unit 10, the rotation speed of the first shaft 12 is preferably greater than the rotation speed of the third shaft 32. In order to make the third roller 35 slip during the process of conveying the long object 50 toward the second holding unit 30, the rotation speed of the third shaft 32 is preferably greater than the rotation speed of the first shaft 12. In order to convey the long object 50 without slipping, the rotation speed of the first shaft 12 and the rotation speed of the third shaft 32 are preferably the same. By slipping the third roller 35, the long object 50 can be conveyed between the first holding unit 10 and the second holding unit 30 while being kept straight without being bent.

[0079] The third roller 35 and the fourth roller 45 each have a contact portion that contacts the elongated object 50, and it is preferable that the contact portion of the fourth roller 45 is made of a material that is softer than the contact portion of the third roller 35. Since the third roller 35, which is a drive roller, is less likely to deform than the fourth roller 45, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the conveying accuracy of the elongated object 50 caused by a change in the rotation radius of the third roller 35.

[0080] The first roller 15, the second roller 25, the third roller 35, and the fourth roller 45 each have a contact portion that contacts the elongated object 50, and it is preferable that the contact portion of the first roller 15, the contact portion of the second roller 25, the contact portion of the third roller 35, and the contact portion of the fourth roller 45 are each made of a material that is softer than the elongated object 50. As a result, when the elongated object 50 is held by the first roller 15, the second roller 25, the third roller 35, and the fourth roller 45, the rollers are more likely to deform than the elongated object 50, so that the elongated object 50 can be held firmly and deformation of the elongated object 50 can be suppressed.

[0081] Although not shown, in the second holding section 30, the third rotating section 31 may have a plurality of third rollers 35, a plurality of third shafts 32 supporting and rotatably driving the plurality of third rollers 35 one by one, and a second drive mechanism that rotatably drives the third shaft 32, and the fourth rotating section 41 may have a plurality of fourth rollers 45, and a plurality of fourth shafts 42 that are parallel to the third shaft 32, support the plurality of fourth rollers 45 one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other. By configuring the second holding section 30 in this manner, it becomes easier to apply an appropriate load to each elongated object 50 individually.

[0082] It is preferable that the first holding part 10 and the second holding part 30 are each movable in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis direction z and the up-down direction y of the first shaft 12. This allows the long object 50 to be transported in the horizontal direction.

[0083] The conveying device 1 is preferably connected to the first holding unit 10 and has a third drive mechanism for moving the first shaft 12 and the second shaft 22. The conveying device 1 is preferably connected to the second holding unit 30 and has a fourth drive mechanism for moving the third shaft 32 and the fourth shaft 42. This allows the elongated object 50 to be moved while being held by the first holding unit 10 and the second holding unit 30. The holding positions of the elongated object 50 in the first holding unit 10 and the second holding unit 30 can also be changed. Although not shown, the third drive mechanism and the fourth drive mechanism may each have a conveying unit connected to the first holding unit 10 or the second holding unit 30, and a control unit connected to the conveying unit and controlling the movement of the conveying unit.

[0084] The conveying unit preferably includes one or more actuators that can move in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis direction z and the vertical direction y of the first shaft 12, more preferably includes a two-axis actuator that can move in the vertical direction y and in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis direction z and the vertical direction y of the first shaft 12, and further preferably includes a three-axis actuator that can move in the vertical direction y, the longitudinal axis direction z of the first shaft 12, and in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis direction z and the vertical direction y of the first shaft 12. By configuring the conveying unit in this way, a high degree of freedom in design is possible. The actuator can include mechanical elements such as a motor, a linear guide, a ball screw, a timing belt pulley, a slider, and a rack and pinion.

[0085] It is preferable that the first holding unit 10 is located downstream in the conveying direction x of the elongated object 50, and the second holding unit 30 is located upstream in the conveying direction x of the elongated object 50. The elongated object 50 can be conveyed by the first holding unit 10 while the second holding unit 30 applies an appropriate load to the elongated object 50.

[0086] Although not shown, the conveying device 1 may have a tension detection unit that detects the tension of the elongated object 50. In that case, it is preferable that data on the tension detected by the tension detection unit is transmitted to a holding force adjustment mechanism, and the holding forces of at least one of the first roller 15, the second roller 25, the third roller 35, and the fourth roller 45 are adjusted according to the detected tension. This allows the first holding unit 10 and the second holding unit 30 to hold the elongated object 50 with an appropriate load. A tension meter can be used as the tension detection unit.

[0087] 2. Method of operating device for transporting multiple long objects The present invention also includes a method for operating a conveying device for a plurality of flexible elongated objects. Each step of the operating method will be described below with reference to Figs. 8 to 10. Figs. 8 to 10 are schematic diagrams showing a method for operating a conveying device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The purpose of this operating method is to align the positions of a first flexible elongated object 51 and a second flexible elongated object 52 in the longitudinal axis direction.

[0088] First, a conveying device 1 for conveying a plurality of flexible elongated objects 50 is prepared (step 1). The conveying device 1 is a device for conveying in parallel a first flexible elongated object 51 and a second flexible elongated object 52, which have a first end 50A and a second end 50B, respectively, in the longitudinal axis direction and are arranged at an interval from each other. The conveying device 1 includes a first holding unit 10 for holding the first end 50A side of the first flexible elongated object 51 and the first end 50A side of the second flexible elongated object 52, and a second holding unit 30 for holding the second end 50B side of the first flexible elongated object 51 and the second end 50B side of the second flexible elongated object 52. The first holding unit 10 includes a first rotating unit 11 and a second rotating unit 21, as shown in Figs. 1 to 6. The first rotating part 11 has one first roller 15, one or more first shafts 12 that support and rotate the first roller 15, and a first drive mechanism 18 that rotates the first shaft 12. The second rotating part 21 has multiple second rollers 25, and multiple second shafts 22 that are parallel to the first shaft 12, support the multiple second rollers 25 one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other. For other specific configurations of the conveying device 1, please refer to the explanation in "1. Conveying device for multiple flexible elongated objects". In the following, the flexible elongated object may be simply referred to as "elongated object".

[0089] In the following explanation, an example will be given in which the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are transported to a target position Pt and the positions of the tips of the bulging portions 50C formed on the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are aligned. Before transport by the rotation of the first roller and the second roller, the tip of the bulging portion 50C of the first elongated object 51 is at position P1, and the tip of the bulging portion 50C of the second elongated object 52 is at position P21. One second roller is configured to come into contact with one elongated object 50.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 9, the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are transported together by a first predetermined distance A1 by the first roller and the second roller (step 2). In this step, it is preferable that the first roller and the second roller of the first holding unit 10 rotate to send out the elongated object 50 in a specific direction. In Figs. 8 to 9, the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are transported in the x direction.

[0091] 8 and 9, the first predetermined distance A1 is a distance required to move the first elongated object 51 from the position P1 before the transfer to the target position Pt. The first predetermined distance A1 can be determined arbitrarily. The first predetermined distance A1 can also be set to a distance from the position P1 before the transfer of the first elongated object 51 to an arbitrary position on the position P1 side of the target position Pt.

[0092] 8 and 9, the first predetermined distance A1 is set based on the position of the tip end of the bulging portion 50C in the longitudinal direction of the elongated object 50. Although not shown, the first predetermined distance A1 may be set based on the position of the center or rear end of the bulging portion 50C in the longitudinal direction of the elongated object 50, or the position of the first end 50A or the second end 50B of the elongated object 50.

[0093] In step 2, it is preferable to transport all of the elongated objects 50 held by the first holding unit 10 together by the first predetermined distance A1. Although not shown, for example, when the first holding unit 10 holds a first elongated object, a second elongated object, a third elongated object, and a fourth elongated object, it is preferable to transport these four elongated objects together by the first predetermined distance A1. This makes it possible to reduce the number of transports required to align the positions of multiple elongated objects.

[0094] 9 and 10, the second elongated object 52 is transported by a second predetermined distance A2 by the first roller and the second roller (step 3). By steps 2 and 3, the positions of the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 in the longitudinal direction can be efficiently aligned.

[0095] In step 3, it is preferable to feed the second elongated object 52 in a specific direction by rotating the first roller and the second roller of the first holding unit 10, similar to step 2. In Figs. 9 and 10, the second elongated object 52 is transported in the x direction.

[0096] 9, the second predetermined distance A2 is a distance required to move the second elongated object 52 from a position P22 after the second elongated object 52 is transported in step 2 to a target position Pt of the second elongated object 52. The second predetermined distance A2 can be determined arbitrarily. For example, the second predetermined distance A2 can be set to a distance from the position P22 to an arbitrary position on the position P22 side of the target position Pt.

[0097] The conveying direction of the elongated object 50 in step 3 is preferably the same as the conveying direction of the elongated object 50 in step 2. For example, in Figures 8 and 9 (step 2), the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are conveyed in the x direction, and in Figures 9 and 10 (step 3), the second elongated object 52 is also conveyed in the x direction. By limiting the movement direction of the elongated object 50 in this manner, the positions of the multiple elongated objects 50 can be efficiently aligned while the mechanism of the first holding unit 10 is configured simply.

[0098] There is no need to transport the first elongated object 51 in step 3. For this reason, it is preferable that the first elongated object 51 is not held by the first roller and the second roller in step 3. For example, by moving the second roller upward or downward to separate the second roller from the first elongated object 51, the first roller and the second roller can release the first elongated object 51 from being held by them.

[0099] It is preferable to separate the first roller and the second roller from the first elongated object 51 after step 2 and before step 3. This prevents frictional force from acting between the first elongated object 51 and the first roller even when the first roller and the second roller are rotated, and therefore prevents the first elongated object 51 from being conveyed.

[0100] Although not shown, when aligning the positions of three or more long objects 50 using the conveying device 1, for example, in step 2, the first long object, the second long object, and the third long object may be conveyed a first predetermined distance A1, then in step 3, the second long object and the third long object may be conveyed a second predetermined distance A2, and after step 3, the third long object may be conveyed a third predetermined distance A3.

[0101] After steps 1 to 3, the first holding portion 10 and the second holding portion 30 hold the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52, respectively, and by moving the first holding portion 10 and the second holding portion 30 in the same direction, the multiple elongated objects 50 can be supplied to the next step with their longitudinal axis positions aligned.

[0102] In a step (step 2) of transporting the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 together by the first roller and the second roller by a first predetermined distance A1, and a step (step 3) of transporting the second elongated object 52 by the first roller and the second roller by a second predetermined distance A2, it is preferable to transport at least one of the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 by rotating the first rotating unit. By rotating the first rotating unit, the elongated object 50 can be sent out in a specific direction.

[0103] The conveying device 1 may have a detection unit that detects a first adjustment amount, which is a conveying distance required for the first elongated object 51, and a second adjustment amount, which is a conveying distance required for the second elongated object 52. In that case, the above-mentioned operating method includes a step of detecting the first adjustment amount and the second adjustment amount by the detection unit before a step of conveying the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 together by the first roller and the second roller by the first predetermined distance A1, and it is preferable that in the step of conveying the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 together by the first roller and the second roller by the first predetermined distance A1, the first predetermined distance A1 is equal to the first adjustment amount, and in the step of conveying the second elongated object 52 by the first roller and the second roller by the second predetermined distance A2, the second predetermined distance A2 is equal to the difference obtained by subtracting the first adjustment amount from the second adjustment amount. By detecting in advance the transport distance required for each elongated object 50, for example the transport distance to a target position, using the detection unit, it becomes easier to align the positions of the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52.

[0104] The second adjustment amount may be greater than the first adjustment amount. In other words, the difference obtained by subtracting the first adjustment amount from the second adjustment amount may be a positive value. In Fig. 8, the distance from the position P21 before the transfer of the second elongated object 52 to the target position Pt is longer than the distance from the position P1 before the transfer of the first elongated object 51 to the target position Pt. In Figs. 9 and 10, the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are transferred in the x direction by the first adjustment amount, and then the second elongated object 52 is transferred in the x direction by the second adjustment amount.

[0105] Although not shown, the first adjustment amount may be greater than the second adjustment amount. That is, the difference obtained by subtracting the first adjustment amount from the second adjustment amount may be a negative value. For example, the distance from the position before the second elongated object 52 to the target position may be shorter than the distance from the position before the first elongated object 51 to the target position. In that case, after the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 are transported by the first adjustment amount, the second elongated object 52 will exceed the target position. For this reason, it is preferable to transport the first elongated object 51 and the second elongated object 52 in the first direction by the first adjustment amount, and then transport the second elongated object 52 in the second direction opposite to the first direction by the second adjustment amount. In this way, when aligning the positions of the multiple elongated objects 50, only some of the elongated objects 50 may be moved in the opposite direction.

[0106] Although not shown, when three or more elongated objects including a first elongated object, a second elongated object, and a third elongated object are transported, these elongated objects do not have to be arranged in the longitudinal axial direction of the first shaft in the order of the first elongated object, the second elongated object, and the third elongated object. For example, they may be arranged in the order of the first elongated object, the third elongated object, and the second elongated object.

[0107] The second holding unit 30 preferably includes a third rotating unit and a fourth rotating unit. The third rotating unit preferably includes one third roller, one or more third shafts that support and rotate the third roller, and a second drive mechanism that rotates the third shaft. The fourth rotating unit preferably includes multiple fourth rollers and multiple fourth shafts that are parallel to the third shaft, support each of the multiple fourth rollers, and are arranged at intervals from each other. The second holding unit 30 is preferably configured to hold one elongated object 50 between the third roller and the fourth roller. In addition, the conveying device 1 may include a tension detection unit that detects the tension of the elongated object 50. In that case, it is preferable to reduce the holding force of the elongated object 50 by the third roller and the fourth roller after the tension of the elongated object 50 reaches a predetermined value. This preferably allows the third roller to slip between the elongated object 50. Since an appropriate load can be applied to the elongated object 50, the elongated object 50 can be conveyed while suppressing bending due to gravity. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1: A conveying device for multiple flexible long objects 10: 1st holding part 11: First rotating section 12: First shaft 15: First roller 18: First drive mechanism 21: Second rotating section 22: 2nd shaft 25: 2nd roller 28: Holding force adjustment mechanism 29: Rail 30:Second holding part 31: Third rotating section 32: 3rd shaft 35: 3rd roller 41: 4th Rotation Section 42: 4th shaft 45: 4th Roller 48: Holding force adjustment mechanism 49: Rail 50: Flexible long object 50A: First end 50B: 2nd end 50C:bulge 51: First flexible elongated object 52: Second flexible elongated object P1: Position of the first flexible elongated object before transportation P21: Position of the second flexible elongated object before transportation P22: Position after the second flexible elongated object is transported in step 2 Pt:Target position A1: First predetermined distance A2: Second predetermined distance x: Transport direction of long items y: Vertical direction z: longitudinal axis direction of the first shaft

Claims

1. An apparatus for conveying a plurality of flexible elongated objects in parallel, the flexible elongated objects each having a first end and a second end in a longitudinal axis direction and arranged at intervals from each other, comprising: a first holding portion that holds the first end sides of the plurality of flexible elongated objects; a second holding portion that holds the second end sides of the plurality of flexible elongated objects, The first holding portion is a first rotating unit including a first roller, one or more first shafts that support and rotate the first roller, and a first drive mechanism that rotates the first shaft; a second rotating section including a plurality of second rollers and a plurality of second shafts that are parallel to the first shaft, support the plurality of second rollers one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other; The second holding portion is a third rotating unit including a third roller, one or more third shafts that support and rotate the third roller, and a second drive mechanism that rotates the third shaft; a fourth rotating unit including a plurality of fourth rollers and a plurality of fourth shafts that are parallel to the third shaft, support the plurality of fourth rollers one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other; A conveying device for a plurality of flexible elongated objects, wherein the rolling friction coefficient between the first roller and the flexible elongated objects is greater than the rolling friction coefficient between the third roller and the flexible elongated objects.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1 , wherein all of the fourth rollers are free rollers.

3. 3. The transport device according to claim 1, wherein all of the second rollers are free rollers.

4. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the second rollers is disposed corresponding to one of the flexible elongated objects.

5. The first rotating portion has one of the first shafts, 5. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein one of the first shafts is disposed opposite all of the second shafts.

6. The first rotating portion has a plurality of the first shafts arranged at intervals from each other, 5. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first shafts is disposed opposite the second shaft.

7. A conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of the first rotating part and the second rotating part is provided with a holding force adjustment mechanism for adjusting the force with which the flexible elongated object is held.

8. The transport device according to claim 7 , wherein each of the second shafts is provided with the holding force adjustment mechanism.

9. An apparatus for transporting a first flexible elongated object and a second flexible elongated object in parallel, the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object each having a first end and a second end in a longitudinal axis direction and arranged with a gap between them, the apparatus comprising: a first holding portion that holds the first end side of the first flexible elongated object and the first end side of the second flexible elongated object; a second holding portion that holds the second end side of the first flexible elongated object and the second end side of the second flexible elongated object, The first holding portion is a first rotating unit including a first roller, one or more first shafts that support and rotate the first roller, and a first drive mechanism that rotates the first shaft; a second rotating section including a plurality of second rollers and a plurality of second shafts that are parallel to the first shaft, support the plurality of second rollers one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other; The second holding portion is a third rotating unit including a third roller, one or more third shafts that support and rotate the third roller, and a second drive mechanism that rotates the third shaft; a fourth rotating unit including a plurality of fourth rollers and a plurality of fourth shafts that are parallel to the third shaft, support the plurality of fourth rollers one by one, and are arranged at intervals from each other; providing a conveying device in which a rolling coefficient of friction between the first roller and the flexible elongated object is greater than a rolling coefficient of friction between the third roller and the flexible elongated object; conveying the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together a first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller; and conveying the second flexible elongated object a second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller.

10. the conveying device further includes a detection unit that detects a first adjustment amount that is a conveying distance required for the first flexible elongated object and a second adjustment amount that is a conveying distance required for the second flexible elongated object, a step of detecting the first adjustment amount and the second adjustment amount by the detection unit before a step of conveying the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together by a first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, in a step of conveying the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together by a first predetermined distance using the first roller and the second roller, the first predetermined distance being equal to the first adjustment amount, 10. The method of claim 9, wherein in the process of transporting the second flexible elongated object a second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, the second predetermined distance is equal to the difference between the second adjustment amount and the first adjustment amount.

11. A method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein in the process of transporting the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object together a first predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, and in the process of transporting the second flexible elongated object a second predetermined distance by the first roller and the second roller, at least one of the first flexible elongated object and the second flexible elongated object is transported by rotating the first rotating unit.

Images