Component mounting system and supply method

Abstract

To provide a component mounting method and a component mounting system that can reduce work of a worker involved in the component replacement work.SOLUTION: A component mounting system reads identification information from a bar-code on an outer side of a reel that stores a carrier tape in a winding manner, stores a tape feeder 7 provided in a self-propelled component replenishing device V in a storage unit that has a first area and a second area located below the first area, drives the self-propelled component replenishing device, moves a tape feeder to be replenished for a component mounting device by a transfer unit, holds the tape feeder provided in the component mounting device from the storage unit, and moves the tape feeder to be replenished from the first area to a first holding position in a holding device which has the first holding position and a second holding position located below the first holding position. The component mounting device mounts a component stored in the reel stored in the tape feeder to be replenished, which was moved to the holding device by the transfer unit on a substrate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 24

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a component mounting system and a supplying method for automatically supplying components to a component mounting device. [Background technology]

[0002] A component mounting system that mounts components on a board is composed of multiple component mounting devices connected together, and each component mounting device is equipped with multiple component supply devices such as tape feeders. Generally, when a worker who manages the component mounting devices runs out of components stored in the component supply devices during the process of continuing component mounting work, the worker must perform work to replenish or replace the components. Since workers often work on multiple component mounting devices, various measures are adopted to reduce the workload.

[0003] For example, as a management device for managing component mounting devices, there is known a management device having a function of instructing an operator to take out a component from a component warehouse (component storage unit) and supply it to the component mounting device when there is a component that has run out or is likely to run out (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the prior art shown in Patent Document 1, in a substrate-related work system having a plurality of working mechanisms that perform substrate-related work, whenever a support work such as a component replacement work becomes necessary, the support work is assigned to one of a plurality of operators. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4491418 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in conventional techniques including Patent Document 1, most of the part replacement work is performed by workers, which poses a problem that a large number of workers with the skills to perform part replacement work are required.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENTS Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a component mounting system and a component supply method that can reduce the amount of work required by a worker to replace components. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The component mounting system of the present invention comprises a holding device that holds a container that stores a carrier tape containing a plurality of components, and has a first holding position at which the container can be held, and a second holding position located below the first holding position; a head that removes components from the carrier tape stored in the container held at the first holding position of the holding device and mounts them on a substrate; a storage section that stores the container and has a first area that is a space in which the container can be arranged, and a second area located below the first area; a connecting mechanism that connects to a connecting section provided in the storage section; and a transfer section that moves the container between the storage section connected to the connecting mechanism and the holding device, wherein the transfer section moves the container arranged in the first area to the first holding position, and the container held at the second holding position to the second area.

[0008] The supply method of the present invention is a method for supplying containers to a holding device in a component mounting apparatus that holds containers for storing a carrier tape containing a plurality of components in the holding device, and removes components from the carrier tape stored in the container held by the holding device and mounts them on a board, the method including a first step of moving a first container, which is the container, from a storage section connected to the holding device by a connection mechanism to the holding device by a transfer section that moves the container between the holding device and a storage section that stores the container, by a first step; and a second step of moving the container from the holding device to the storage section connected to the holding device, wherein the holding device has a first holding position which is a position where the container can be held and a second holding position located below the first holding position, and the storage section has a first area which is a space where the container can be placed and a second area located below the first area, and in the first step, the first container is moved from the first area to the first holding position, and in the second step, the second container is moved from the second holding position to the second area. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, the amount of work required by a worker to replace parts can be reduced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a component mounting line provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a component mounting device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a component mounting device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a tape feeder provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a tape cassette provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; (a) a diagram illustrating the configuration of the tape cassette with a cover attached; (b) a diagram illustrating the configuration of the tape cassette with the cover removed; [Figure 7] 1A, 1B, and 1C are explanatory diagrams illustrating the configuration of a tape pushing mechanism of a tape cassette provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process of replacing a tape cassette in a cassette holder provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process of replacing a tape cassette in a cassette holder provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device and a connection unit provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process in which a storage section of a self-propelled component supply device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a connection section. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a first embodiment of a tape waste recovery means of a self-propelled component supplying device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a second embodiment of the tape waste recovery means of a self-propelled component supplying device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system for a tape feeder provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system for a self-propelled component supply device; [Figure 16] 1 is a flowchart of a component supply method in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 is a flowchart of a tape cassette replacement method in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process in which a self-propelled component supplying device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention replaces a tape cassette. [Figure 19] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a process in which a self-propelled component supplying device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention replaces a tape cassette. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a tape cassette according to a second embodiment of the present invention, with (a) a cover attached; and (b) a schematic diagram of the tape cassette with the cover removed. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device and a cart according to a second embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device according to a second embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a third embodiment of a self-propelled component supply device provided in a component mounting system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device and a cart according to a fourth embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; [Diagram 25] FIG. 4 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device according to a fourth embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; [Figure 26] FIG. 5 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device and a cart according to a fifth embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; [Figure 27] FIG. 5 is a configuration explanatory diagram of a self-propelled component supply device according to a fifth embodiment of the component mounting system of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The configurations, shapes, etc. described below are examples for explanation, and can be appropriately changed according to the specifications of the component mounting system, the component mounting line, and the self-propelled component supply device. In the following, the same reference numerals are used for corresponding elements in all drawings, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. In FIG. 1 and some parts described later, the X direction (left and right direction in FIG. 1) of the board transport direction and the Y direction (up and down direction in FIG. 1) perpendicular to the board transport direction are shown as two axial directions perpendicular to each other in a horizontal plane. In FIG. 4 and some parts described later, the Z direction (up and down direction in FIG. 4) is shown as a height direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The Z direction is the up and down direction or the perpendicular direction when the component mounting device is installed on a horizontal plane.

[0012] First, the configuration of the component mounting system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The component mounting system 1 is configured such that three component mounting lines L1 to L3 and a component storage device S arranged on a floor F are connected by a communication network 2 and are managed by a management computer 3. As will be described later, each of the component mounting lines L1 to L3 is configured by connecting a plurality of component mounting-related devices including a component mounting device, and has the function of producing mounted boards on which components are mounted on a board. Note that the number of component mounting lines L1 provided in the component mounting system 1 does not need to be three, and may be one, two, or four or more.

[0013] The part storage device S receives a plurality of tape cassettes C (see FIG. 6) in which a carrier tape, described later, is wound and stored, and stores them in an internal storage shelf, and takes out a specific tape cassette C from the internal storage shelf in accordance with instructions from the management computer 3. In other words, the part storage device S is a part storage section that stores tape cassettes C (storage containers). A used cassette recovery device U and a tape waste disposal section G are disposed on the floor F. Furthermore, the floor F is equipped with self-propelled part supply devices V (four devices in this case). The self-propelled part supply device V has a built-in wireless communication section T, and transmits and receives signals and information to and from the management computer 3 via a wireless communication section 3a provided in the management computer 3.

[0014] The self-propelled parts supply device V autonomously moves between predetermined positions on the floor F based on instructions from the management computer 3 and information it collects using beacons (not shown) installed on the floor F, various sensors (GPS, obstacle sensors, etc.) built into the self-propelled parts supply device V, cameras, etc. Here, the multiple beacons installed on the floor F, the receiving means provided in each self-propelled parts supply device V for receiving radio waves from each beacon, and the position calculating means (not shown) for calculating the position of the self-propelled parts supply device V from the radio wave information received by the receiving means function as position detecting means for detecting the position of the self-propelled parts supply device V within the floor F.

[0015] The position detection means may be configured by a GPS provided in each self-propelled component supply device V and a position calculation means (not shown) that calculates the position of the self-propelled component supply device V from the position information of the GPS. Furthermore, the self-propelled component supply device V holds a plurality of supply tape cassettes C taken out from the component storage device S, supplies them to the component mounting devices on the component mounting lines L1 to L3, and collects the empty tape cassettes C and returns them to the used cassette collection device U. Furthermore, the self-propelled component supply device V collects tape waste from the component mounting devices and discards it in a tape waste disposal section G.

[0016] Next, the detailed configuration of component mounting lines L1 to L3 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Component mounting lines L1 to L3 have the same configuration, and below, component mounting line L1 will be described. Component mounting line L1 is configured by connecting solder printing device M1, print inspection device M2, component mounting devices M3 to M6, mounting inspection device M7, and reflow device M8 in series from the upstream side (left side of the paper) to the downstream side (right side of the paper) in the board transport direction (X direction).

[0017] The solder printing device M1, print inspection device M2, component mounting devices M3 to M6, mounting inspection device M7, and reflow device M8 are connected to a management computer 3 via a communications network 2. The solder printing device M1 performs a solder printing operation to print solder on a board B brought in from the upstream side by a solder printing work unit. The print inspection device M2 performs a print inspection operation to inspect the condition of the solder printed on the board B by a print inspection work unit that includes a solder inspection camera.

[0018] The component mounting devices M3 to M6 perform a component mounting operation in which components D are mounted on the board B by a component mounting work section. The component mounting line L1 is not limited to a configuration in which the component mounting devices M3 to M6 are four, and may have one to three or five or more component mounting devices M3 to M6. The mounting inspection device M7 performs a mounting inspection operation in which a mounting inspection work section including a component inspection camera inspects the state of the components D mounted on the board B. The reflow device M8 performs a board heating operation in which the board B carried into the device is heated by a board heating section to harden the solder on the board B and bond the electrodes of the board B to the components D.

[0019] Next, the configuration of component mounting apparatuses M3 to M6 will be described with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The component mounting apparatuses M3 to M6 have the same configuration, and here, component mounting apparatus M3 will be described. Fig. 4 partially shows a cross section taken along line AA in Fig. 3. The component mounting apparatus M3 has the function of mounting a component D on a board B.

[0020] In FIG. 3, a board transport mechanism 5 is disposed in the X direction at the center of the base 4. The board transport mechanism 5 transports the board B carried in from the upstream side, and positions and holds it at a position for performing component mounting work. Component supply units 6 are disposed on both sides of the board transport mechanism 5. In each component supply unit 6, a plurality of tape feeders 7 are disposed in parallel in the X direction. The tape feeders 7 feed the carrier tape containing the components D at a pitch in the tape feed direction, thereby supplying the components D to a component pick-up position by a mounting head of the component mounting mechanism described below. In other words, the tape feeder 7 is a component supply device that is mounted on the component mounting device M3 and supplies the components D.

[0021] A Y-axis beam 8 equipped with a linear drive mechanism is disposed along the Y direction at one end of the upper surface of the base 4 in the X direction. Two X-axis beams 9 similarly equipped with linear drive mechanisms are connected to the Y-axis beam 8 so as to be freely movable in the Y direction. The X-axis beams 9 are disposed along the X direction. A mounting head 10 is attached to each of the two X-axis beams 9 so as to be freely movable in the X direction. As shown in FIG. 4, the mounting head 10 is equipped with a plurality of suction units 10a that can suction and hold components D and move up and down. A suction nozzle 10b is provided at the tip of each of the suction units 10a.

[0022] 3, by driving the Y-axis beam 8 and the X-axis beam 9, the mounting head 10 moves in the X and Y directions. As a result, the two mounting heads 10 pick up and remove the component D with the suction nozzles 10b from the component removal positions of the tape feeders 7 arranged in the corresponding component supply units 6, and mount the component D at a mounting point on the board B positioned by the board transport mechanism 5. The Y-axis beam 8, the X-axis beam 9, and the mounting heads 10 constitute a component mounting mechanism that mounts the component D on the board B by moving the mounting heads 10 holding the component D.

[0023] A component recognition camera 11 is disposed between the component supply unit 6 and the board transport mechanism 5. When the mounting head 10, which has taken out a component from the component supply unit 6, moves above the component recognition camera 11, the component recognition camera 11 captures an image of the component D held by the mounting head 10 and recognizes the holding posture of the component D. A board recognition camera 12 is attached to the plate 9a to which the mounting head 10 is attached. The board recognition camera 12 moves integrally with the mounting head 10.

[0024] As the mounting head 10 moves, the board recognition camera 12 moves above the board B positioned by the board transport mechanism 5, and captures an image of a board mark (not shown) provided on the board B to recognize the position of the board B. In the component mounting operation on the board B by the mounting head 10, the mounting position is corrected taking into account the recognition result of the component D by the component recognition camera 11 and the recognition result of the board position by the board recognition camera 12.

[0025] In FIG. 4, the component supply unit 6 is composed of a dolly 13 having a feeder base 13a to which a plurality of tape feeders 7 are attached in advance. The dolly 13 is configured to be freely attached to and detached from the base 4. The dolly 13 is equipped with a cassette holder 15 capable of holding a plurality of tape cassettes C that store a carrier tape 14 in a wound state. The cassette holder 15 has a plurality of upper holding positions Hu and a plurality of lower holding positions Hd for holding the tape cassettes C. In other words, the cassette holder 15 serves as a storage container holding device that holds the tape cassettes C (storage container). The carrier tape 14 pulled out from the tape cassette C held by the cassette holder 15 is attached to the tape feeder 7.

[0026] In this manner, component mounting apparatus M3 includes cassette holder 15 (container holding device) that holds tape cassette C (container). In component mounting apparatus M3, board transport mechanism 5, component supply unit 6, component mounting mechanism (Y-axis beam 8, X-axis beam 9, mounting head 10), component recognition camera 11, and board recognition camera 12 constitute component mounting work unit 16 (see FIG. 14) that mounts components D supplied by tape feeder 7 onto the transported board B.

[0027] Next, the configuration and function of tape feeder 7 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Tape feeder 7 (component supplying device) has a function of transporting carrier tape 14, which stores components D and is covered with cover tape, to a component removal position, peeling off the cover tape just before the component removal position, and supplying the stored components D to component mounting devices M3 to M6. Tape feeder 7 (component supplying device) shown in this embodiment is a so-called autoload feeder that can automatically load carrier tape 14 (components D) into tape feeder 7 by inserting the leading end of carrier tape 14 into a tape insertion port.

[0028] The autoload feeder can also replenish components by inserting a subsequent carrier tape 14 (hereinafter abbreviated as “subsequent tape 14(2)”) into the tape insertion port while a preceding carrier tape 14 (hereinafter abbreviated as “preceding tape 14(1)”) already attached to the tape feeder 7 is supplying components D.

[0029] 5, tape feeder 7 includes main body 7a and mounting portion 7b that protrudes downward from the bottom surface of main body 7a. When tape feeder 7 is mounted with the bottom surface of main body 7a aligned with feeder base 13a, tape feeder 7 is fixedly mounted to component supplying portion 6, and feeder control portion 21 built in for controlling tape feeding in tape feeder 7 is electrically connected to mounting control portion 22 of component mounting devices M3 to M6.

[0030] Inside the main body 7a, there is provided a tape transport path 7c that guides the carrier tape 14 that has been pulled out from the tape cassette C and taken into the main body 7a. The tape transport path 7c is provided so as to communicate from a tape insertion opening 7d, which opens at the upstream end of the main body 7a in the tape feed direction, into which the carrier tape 14 is inserted, to a tape ejection opening 7e that opens downstream of a component removal position where components are removed by the mounting head 10.

[0031] A shutter mechanism 23 is disposed downstream of tape insertion opening 7d. Shutter mechanism 23 has a function of allowing or prohibiting carrier tape 14 inserted through tape insertion opening 7d from entering downstream tape transport path 7c by vertically moving shutter 23a provided in shutter mechanism 23. The vertical movement of shutter 23a is controlled by feeder control unit 21. Thus, tape insertion opening 7d of tape feeder 7 is provided with shutter 23a that allows or prohibits insertion of carrier tape 14.

[0032] In Fig. 5, a first tape feed mechanism 24A and a second tape feed mechanism 24B for feeding the leading tape 14(1) and the trailing tape 14(2) are disposed on the upstream and downstream sides of the tape transport path 7c. The first tape feed mechanism 24A disposed on the upstream side has a function of continuously feeding the newly loaded trailing tape 14(2) from the tape insertion opening 7d side to the second tape feed mechanism 24B side. The first tape feed mechanism 24A is configured to rotate a sprocket 25A by a motor 26A. The rotational drive of the motor 26A is controlled by the feeder control unit 21.

[0033] A biasing mechanism 27 is disposed below sprocket 25A of first tape feed mechanism 24A. Biasing mechanism 27 has the function of biasing subsequent tape 14(2) inserted from tape insertion opening 7d against sprocket 25A to engage feed holes 14a (see FIG. 7(a)) of carrier tape 14 with sprocket 25A. An insertion detection sensor Q is disposed downstream of sprocket 25A to detect the leading end of subsequent tape 14(2) inserted from tape insertion opening 7d and engaged with sprocket 25A.

[0034] The detection result by the insertion detection sensor Q is transmitted to the feeder control unit 21. That is, the insertion detection sensor Q serves as a tape insertion detection unit that detects whether the succeeding tape 14(2) (carrier tape 14) has been properly inserted. Alternatively, a method of detecting whether the carrier tape 14 has been properly inserted may be to detect the rotation of the sprocket 25A that rotates as the tape is inserted.

[0035] In Fig. 5, the second tape feed mechanism 24B provided on the downstream side has the function of pitch-feeding the leading tape 14(1) at a predetermined feed pitch to a component removal position where the mounting head 10 removes components D. The second tape feed mechanism 24B is configured to rotate a sprocket 25B using a motor 26B. The rotational drive of the motor 26B is controlled by the feeder control unit 21. A pressing member 28 is attached above the second tape feed mechanism 24B and has the function of pressing the leading tape 14(1) from above and peeling off the cover tape to expose the components D stored in the leading tape 14(1).

[0036] The component D that has been pitch-fed to the component removal position 28a is picked up by vacuum suction by the suction nozzle 10b of the mounting head 10 through a component removal opening formed in the pressing member 28. In this manner, the first tape feed mechanism 24A and the second tape feed mechanism 24B form a tape feed mechanism 24 (see FIG. 15) that feeds the carrier tape 14 (leading tape 14(1), trailing tape (2)) and transports the stored component D to the component removal position 28a.

[0037] 5, an operation / display panel 29 connected to feeder control section 21 is disposed on the upper surface of tape feeder 7 on the upstream side. Operation / display panel 29 is provided with various operation buttons, such as operation buttons for operating the tape feeding operations of first tape feeding mechanism 24A and second tape feeding mechanism 24B, and an operation button for opening and closing the shutter in shutter mechanism 23. Operation / display panel 29 is further provided with a display panel such as an LED or liquid crystal display. Thus, tape feeder 7 (component supplying device) is an autoload feeder, and is provided with tape insertion opening 7d into which the leading end of carrier tape 14 to be supplied is inserted.

[0038] Next, the configuration and function of the tape cassette C will be described with reference to Figs. 6 and 7. Fig. 6(a) shows the tape cassette C with the cover 30 attached, and Fig. 6(b) shows the tape cassette C with the cover 30 removed. In Fig. 6(b), the carrier tape 14 that holds a plurality of components D is wound around the core portion 31. The core portion 31 around which the carrier tape 14 is wound is rotatably mounted on the core holding portion 32 of the tape cassette C. A tape extrusion mechanism 33 is disposed above the tape cassette C. The tape extrusion mechanism 33 includes an upper extrusion mechanism 33a and a lower extrusion mechanism 33b. A tape guide path 33c that guides the carrier tape 14 being extruded is formed between the upper extrusion mechanism 33a and the lower extrusion mechanism 33b.

[0039] The carrier tape 14 wound around the core portion 31 is taken out from an outlet 34 through a tape guide path 33c of the tape pushing-out mechanism 33. A gripper 35 is provided on the tape cassette C at a position accessible from the opposite side of the outlet 34. The gripper 35 is gripped by the self-propelled component supplying device V when the tape cassette C is supplied to the cassette holder 15 or when it is removed from the cassette holder 15. In addition, an RFID 36 that wirelessly transmits and receives identification information N of the tape cassette C is provided on the tape cassette C at a position accessible from the opposite side of the outlet 34. In this way, the tape cassette C serves as a storage container for storing a plurality of components D.

[0040] In FIG. 7(a), a substantially L-shaped pushing member 38 is disposed in a main body 37 of the upper pushing mechanism 33a, which slides back and forth along a guide 37a formed in the main body 37 on the tape guide path 33c. An insertion hole 37b is also formed in the main body 37, through which a pushing rod 39 inserted from the opposite side of the outlet 34 slides. One end of the pushing rod 39 inserted from the insertion hole 37b is attached to a surface 38a located on the opposite side of the outlet 34 of the pushing member 38. As a result, the pushing rod 39 and the pushing member 38 move back and forth together along the tape guide path 33c (arrows b1 and b2). Also, one end of a spring 40, which is an elastic body that biases the pushing member 38 in the opposite direction to the outlet 34, is attached to the same surface 38a. The opposite end of the spring 40 is connected to the main body 37.

[0041] Two teeth 38c protruding into the tape guide path 33c are formed on the side of the bottom surface 38b of the pushing member 38 facing the tape guide path 33c, closer to the removal opening 34. The distance between the two teeth 38c is the same as the distance between the feed holes 14a of the carrier tape 14, and the two teeth 38c each engage with the feed holes 14a of the carrier tape 14 inserted into the tape guide path 33c. The bottom surfaces of the two teeth 38c each have an inclination that cuts upwards on the side opposite the removal opening 34. The side of the pushing member 38 facing the two teeth 38c is also capable of swinging up and down (arrow b3).

[0042] The pushing member 38 moves to the removal opening 34 with the two teeth 38c engaged with the sprocket holes 14a, thereby pushing the carrier tape 14 outward from the removal opening 34. On the other hand, when the pushing member 38 returns to the opposite side from the removal opening 34, the pushing member 38 rocks up and down with the inclination of the lower surfaces of the two teeth 38c aligned with the sprocket holes 14a, thereby disengaging the two teeth 38c from the sprocket holes 14a. In this way, the pushing rod 39 and the pushing member 38 function as a carrier tape pushing member with one end engaging with the stored carrier tape 14 and the other end protruding outward from the tape cassette C (storage container).

[0043] In Fig. 7(a), a substantially L-shaped swinging member 42 is disposed in a space 41a formed in a main body 41 of the lower push-out mechanism 33b. A swinging shaft 43 attached to the main body 41 is connected to the side of the swinging member 42 opposite the outlet 34. The swinging member 42 swings up and down (arrow b4) on the outlet 34 side with the swinging shaft 43 as the center. A spring 44, which is an elastic body that urges the swinging member 42 upward, is disposed below the outlet 34 side of the swinging member 42. The upward swinging of the swinging member 42 is restricted by a restricting surface 41b formed in the space 41a of the main body 41.

[0044] Two teeth 42b are formed on the upper surface of the swinging member 42 facing the tape guide path 33c, close to the removal opening 34, and protrude into the tape guide path 33c in a state where the upward swing is restricted by the restricting surface 41b. The distance between the two teeth 42b is the same as the distance between the feed holes 14a of the carrier tape 14. The two teeth 42b each engage with the feed holes 14a of the carrier tape 14 inserted into the tape guide path 33c. The upper surfaces of the two teeth 42b each have an incline that cuts down to the opposite side of the removal opening 34.

[0045] When the carrier tape 14 is pushed out toward the take-out opening 34 with the two teeth 42b engaged with the feed holes 14a, the swinging member 42 swings up and down with the inclination of the upper surfaces of the two teeth 42b following the feed holes 14a, and the engagement between the two teeth 42b and the feed holes 14a is released. As a result, the carrier tape 14 being pushed out is not hindered from moving outward by the swinging member 42. On the other hand, when the carrier tape 14 tries to move in the opposite direction (inward) from the take-out opening 34, the swinging member 42 has the two teeth 42b engage with the feed holes 14a to suppress the movement of the carrier tape 14.

[0046] Next, with reference to Figures 7(a) to (c), the process of pushing out the carrier tape 14 in the tape cassette C will be described. In Figure 7(a), the carrier tape 14 stored in the tape cassette C has its feed holes 14a engaged with two teeth 38c of the pushing member 38 and two teeth 42b of the swinging member 42, and the leading end 14b of the carrier tape 14 is located outside the removal opening 34. The pushing member 38 is located on the side farther from the removal opening 34.

[0047] From this state, in Fig. 7(b), when the push rod 39 is pushed inward from the outside by an external force (arrow c1), the push member 38 is pushed and moves in the direction of the take-out opening 34 with the two teeth 38c engaged with the feed holes 14a of the carrier tape 14 (arrow c2). Accordingly, the carrier tape 14 moves in the direction of the take-out opening 34. At that time, the swing member 42 swings up and down (arrow c3), and the two teeth 42b disengage from the feed holes 14a, so that the movement of the carrier tape 14 is not hindered. In this way, the carrier tape 14 is pushed outward from the take-out opening 34 (arrow c4).

[0048] In FIG. 7(c), the force pushing the push rod 39 inward is removed. Therefore, the push member 38 is pulled back to the opposite side of the take-out opening 34 by the spring 40 of the upper push mechanism 33a. At this time, the carrier tape 14 is prevented from moving by the swing member 42, whose two teeth 42b engage with the feed holes 14a. Therefore, the push member 38 moves to the opposite side of the take-out opening 34 (arrow d2) while swinging up and down (arrow d1) so that the two teeth 38c are disengaged from the feed holes 14a. Then, the push rod 39 is pushed back to the opposite side of the take-out opening 34 by the push member 38 (arrow d3).

[0049] When pushing out the carrier tape 14 from the tape cassette C, the pushing process shown in Fig. 7(b) and the returning process shown in Fig. 7(c) are repeated so that the desired length is pushed out. When the carrier tape 14 is fed outward from the outlet 34 by the tape feeder 7, the pushing member 38 and the swinging member 42 swing up and down (arrows b3 and b4) in the state shown in Fig. 7(a). As a result, the two teeth 38c of the pushing member 38 and the two teeth 42b of the swinging member 42 disengage from the feed hole 14a, respectively, and the movement of the carrier tape 14 in the direction toward the tape feeder 7 is not hindered.

[0050] Such a tape cassette C allows leading end 14b of carrier tape 14 to be fed in a predetermined direction with high accuracy, and allows leading end 14b of carrier tape 14 to be inserted into tape feeder 7. In addition, since carrier tape 14 can be fed by an external force, the tape can be fed without providing a drive source in tape cassette C, allowing the device to be made compact.

[0051] Next, a method for replacing (replenishing) the tape cassette C in the cassette holder 15 will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. For convenience, Figures 8 and 9 show simplified structures of the dolly 13 and the cassette holder 15. As shown in Figure 8(a), the cassette holder 15 is provided with a lower holding position Hd for holding a tape cassette C(1) in which the leading tape 14(1) is wound and stored. The cassette holder 15 is also provided with an upper holding position Hu above the lower holding position Hd for holding a tape cassette C(2) in which the following tape 14(2) is wound and stored.

[0052] That is, the cassette holder 15 (container holding device) has an upper holding position Hu (first holding position) for holding the tape cassette C(2) (container) and a lower holding position Hd (second holding position) for holding the tape cassette C(1) (container) that was loaded before the tape cassette C(2) (container) held at the upper holding position Hu (first holding position). Also, a groove 15a for guiding the tape cassette C is formed on the inner wall of the cassette holder 15. For convenience, the groove 15a is represented by a dashed line in Figs. 8 and 9 for simplicity. The tape cassette C loaded into the cassette holder 15 moves downward by gravity along the groove 15a on the inner wall.

[0053] 8(a), leading tape 14(1) and trailing tape 14(2) are inserted into tape insertion port 7d of tape feeder 7. In tape feeder 7, components D stored in leading tape 14(1) are supplied to component removal position 28a. In the process of continuing component mounting work, when components D on leading tape 14(1) are consumed, components D stored on trailing tape 14(2) are successively supplied to component removal position 28a.

[0054] In Fig. 8(b), the preceding tape cassette C(1), which has been emptied of all the components D, is pulled out horizontally (arrow e1) from the lower holding position Hd of the cassette holder 15 and collected by a collection head 60 (see Fig. 10) of a self-propelled component supplying device V (described later) (preceding cassette collecting process). Thereafter, the following tape cassette C(2) moves (arrow e2) along the groove 15a from the upper holding position Hu to the now emptied lower holding position Hd (following cassette moving process).

[0055] That is, when the tape cassette C(1) (container) held at the lower holding position Hd (second holding position) is removed, the tape cassette C(2) (container) held at the upper holding position Hu (first holding position) moves to the lower holding position Hd (second holding position). In this way, since the tape cassette C at the upper holding position Hu moves to the lower holding position Hd by gravity, the position of the tape cassette C can be changed simply by pulling it out.

[0056] 9(a), the tape cassette C(3) to be replenished is then disposed at supply position Hs of the cassette holder 15 located behind the tape feeder 7, with the tip 14b of the carrier tape 14(3) protruding from the removal opening 34 of the tape cassette C(3) being positioned behind the tape insertion opening 7d of the tape feeder 7 (arrow f1) (supply cassette placement process). Here, the tape cassette C(3) is held at supply position Hs by a gripping device 57b (see FIG. 10) of a self-propelled component supplying device V, which will be described later.

[0057] Next, with the tape cassette C(3) held, the push rod 39 is pushed into the inside of the tape cassette C(3) (arrow f2), and while pushing out the carrier tape 14(3) (arrow f3), the tip 14b of the carrier tape 14(3) is inserted into the tape feeder 7 through the tape insertion opening 7d (supply tape insertion process). Here, the push rod 39 is pushed in by a tape insertion means 57a (see FIG. 10) provided in the self-propelled component supply device V, which will be described later. Note that the means for pushing in the push rod 39 is not limited to this, and may be provided in the component mounting devices M3 to M6, or may be pushed in by a means provided in a device other than the self-propelled component supply device V and the component mounting devices M3 to M6.

[0058] Also, the means for holding the tape cassette C at the supply position Hs may be provided in the cassette holder 15. The carrier tape 14 is pushed out by the push-out mechanism 33 of the tape cassette C at least to a position where tape feeding is possible by the first tape feeding mechanism 24A of the tape feeder 7. Here, the carrier tape 14 can be positioned at the above-mentioned position by repeatedly pushing out the carrier tape 14 by the push-out mechanism 33 until the insertion detection sensor Q of the tape feeder 7 detects the leading end 14b of the carrier tape 14.

[0059] 9(b), when the loading of the carrier tape 14(3) contained in the replenished tape cassette C(3) into the tape feeder 7 is completed, the retention of the tape cassette C(3) is released. As a result, the tape cassette C(3) moves from the replenishment position Hs to the upper retention position Hu along the groove 15a (arrow g1) (replenishment cassette moving process). In this way, the emptied tape cassette C(1) is collected from the component mounting devices M3 to M6, and the replenished tape cassette C(3) is replenished.

[0060] 9(b), in the process of the tape cassette C(3) moving from the supply position Hs to the upper holding position Hu, the cassette holder 15 of this embodiment rotates the tape cassette C(3) 45 degrees about the horizontal direction (the X direction in this embodiment) as the axis of rotation so that the removal opening 34 of the tape cassette C(3) faces diagonally upward. Then, in the lower holding position Hd, the cassette holder 15 holds the tape cassette C(2) so that the removal opening 34 maintains the angle facing diagonally upward.

[0061] The supply position Hs and the upper holding position Hu are located in a non-overlapping positional relationship in the YZ plane as viewed from the X direction. This is because another tape cassette C located at the upper holding position Hu does not interfere with the operation of a supply head 57 (see FIG. 10) described later to align the tape cassette C with the tape feeder 7.

[0062] Furthermore, the removal opening 34 of the tape cassette C(2) at the lower holding position Hd is set to a position closer to the tape feeder 7 in the horizontal direction (Y direction in this embodiment) than the removal opening 34 of the tape cassette C(3) at the upper holding position Hu. This allows the carrier tape 14(2) supplied by the tape cassette C(2) at the lower holding position Hd and the carrier tape 14(3) supplied by the tape cassette C(3) at the upper holding position Hu to be supplied to the tape insertion opening 7d of the tape feeder 7 without interfering with each other.

[0063] Next, the configuration of the self-propelled part supply device V and the cart 13 will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. In Figure 10, the self-propelled part supply device V is configured by stacking a cart section 50, a support section 51, and a storage section 52 from the bottom. The cart section 50 is equipped with a traveling mechanism 54 (see Figure 15) including wheels 53, a motor for driving the wheels 53, a direction changing mechanism for the wheels 53, a sensor for detecting the position and attitude of the self-propelled part supply device V, and a camera (not shown). In addition, the cart section 50 is equipped with a supply control section 55 (see Figure 15) for controlling the traveling mechanism 54, a wireless communication section T for wirelessly communicating with the management computer 3, and a battery (not shown).

[0064] Travel control unit 55a (see FIG. 15) of supply control unit 55 controls travel mechanism 54 to move self-propelled component supply device V based on instructions from management computer 3 and information collected by itself. Note that wheels 53 of cart unit 50 can freely change direction, and self-propelled component supply device V can freely move horizontally without changing its attitude. In other words, self-propelled component supply device V can move in both the X and Y directions while maintaining an attitude parallel to component mounting devices M3 to M6 shown in FIG.

[0065] In addition, the traveling mechanism 54 is equipped with an electromagnetic brake (not shown), and can be kept stopped at a predetermined position with the electromagnetic brake applied. In this manner, the traveling mechanism 54 and the traveling control unit 55a are a traveling means that automatically moves or stops with the support unit 51 provided at the top.

[0066] The support section 51 has a lower portion fixed to the cart section 50 and an upper portion fixed to the storage section 52, thereby supporting the storage section 52 from below. The upper portion of the support section 51 is configured to be slidable relative to the lower portion in the horizontal direction (X direction, Y direction) and the vertical direction (Z direction). As a result, when an external force is applied to the storage section 52, the storage section 52 moves in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction relative to the cart section 50.

[0067] Furthermore, the support section 51 is biased by an elastic body (not shown) such as a spring so as to return the storage section 52 to a predetermined central position when no external force is applied. The support section 51 also has a built-in locking mechanism (not shown) that fixes the position of the storage section 52 relative to the cart section 50 when the storage section 52 is in the predetermined central position. The self-propelled part supply device V moves (travels) with the storage section 52 fixed in the predetermined central position. In this way, the support section 51 supports the storage section 52 (storage container storage section) from below so as to be freely movable in both horizontal and vertical directions.

[0068] 10, the storage section 52 is configured to include an upper supply cassette storage section 52a and a lower return cassette storage section 52b. The supply cassette storage section 52a stores a plurality of tape cassettes C to be supplied to the component mounting devices M3 to M6. The return cassette storage section 52b stores a plurality of tape cassettes C returned from the component mounting devices M3 to M6. In other words, the storage section 52 serves as a storage container storage section having the supply cassette storage section 52a (first area) that stores the tape cassettes C (storage container) to be supplied, and the return cassette storage section 52b (second area) that stores the used tape cassettes C (storage container).

[0069] 10, an X-axis beam 56x is disposed on the ceiling of the supply cassette storage section 52a along the X direction (the traveling direction of the self-propelled component supply device V). An X-axis slider 56a driven by an X-axis linear drive mechanism is provided on the X-axis beam 56x so as to be movable in the X direction along the X-axis beam 56x (arrow j1 in FIG. 11). The X-axis beam 56x, the X-axis slider 56a, and the X-axis linear drive mechanism constitute an X-axis movement mechanism.

[0070] Below the X-axis slider 56a, a Y-axis beam 56y is disposed along the Y direction (a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the self-propelled component supply device V). A Y-axis slider 56b driven by a linear drive mechanism is provided on the Y-axis beam 56y so as to be movable in the Y direction (arrow h1) along the Y-axis beam 56y. The Y-axis beam 56y, the Y-axis slider 56b and the Y-axis linear drive mechanism constitute a Y-axis movement mechanism. A supply head 57 is attached to the Y-axis slider 56b. The supply head 57 is equipped with a tape insertion means 57a, a gripping device 57b and an RF reader R.

[0071] The gripping device 57b grips the gripping portion 35 of the tape cassette C to be replenished that is stored in the supply cassette storage section 52a. The tape insertion means 57a is configured to include an electromagnetic piston and a rod. When the tape insertion means 57a protrudes the rod in a state in which the supply head 57 grips the tape cassette C, the push rod 39 of the tape cassette C is pushed into the inside of the tape cassette C, and the carrier tape 14 can be pushed out from the removal opening 34. In this way, the X-axis movement mechanism, the Y-axis movement mechanism, and the supply head 57 form a cassette supply mechanism 58 (see FIG. 15 ) that grips the tape cassette C to be replenished that is stored at a predetermined position, takes it out from the supply cassette storage section 52a, moves it in the X direction and the Y direction outside the supply cassette storage section 52a, and pushes out the carrier tape 14 from the tape cassette C.

[0072] The RF reader R reads the identification information N from the RFID 36 arranged on the tape cassette C. By moving the supply head 57 in the X direction while keeping the supply head 57 a predetermined distance away from the stored tape cassette C, the RF reader R can read the identification information N of the tape cassettes C stored in the supply cassette storage unit 52a all at once. In this way, in the self-propelled component supply device V, the RF reader R (information reading unit) that reads the identification information N attached to the tape cassette C (storage container) is provided in the supply cassette storage unit 52a (first area).

[0073] 10, an X-axis beam 59x is disposed on the ceiling of the collected cassette storage section 52b along the X direction (the traveling direction of the self-propelled part supplying device V). An X-axis slider 59a driven by an X-axis linear driving mechanism is provided on the X-axis beam 59x so as to be movable in the X direction along the X-axis beam 59x (arrow j2 in FIG. 11). The X-axis beam 59x, the X-axis slider 59a, and the X-axis linear driving mechanism constitute an X-axis movement mechanism.

[0074] Below the X-axis slider 59a, a Y-axis beam 59y is disposed along the Y direction (a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the self-propelled component supply device V). A Y-axis slider 59b driven by a linear drive mechanism is provided on the Y-axis beam 59y so as to be movable in the Y direction (arrow h2) along the Y-axis beam 59y. The Y-axis beam 59y, the Y-axis slider 59b and the Y-axis linear drive mechanism constitute a Y-axis movement mechanism. A collection head 60 is attached to the Y-axis slider 59b.

[0075] The collection head 60 is provided with a gripping device 60a. The gripping device 60a grips the gripping portion 35 of the tape cassette C to be collected that is held in the lower holding position Hd of the cassette holder 15 of the component mounting devices M3 to M6. The collection head 60 then pulls the gripped tape cassette C to a predetermined position in the collection cassette storage section 52b, and then releases the grip to store the tape cassette C to be collected. In this manner, the X-axis movement mechanism, the Y-axis movement mechanism, and the collection head 60 form a cassette collection mechanism 61 (see FIG. 15) that moves in the X and Y directions outside the collection cassette storage section 52b, grips the tape cassette C to be collected, and stores it in a predetermined position in the collection cassette storage section 52b.

[0076] 11, in storage section 52, the side where tape cassette C is removed from supply cassette storage section 52a and where tape cassette C is retrieved into retrieval cassette storage section 52b has its outer wall removed to prevent interference when inserting or removing tape cassette C. When self-propelled component supplying device V supplies or retrieves tape cassette C to or from component mounting devices M3 to M6, it automatically aligns itself while traveling so that the surface where tape cassette C is inserted or removed is parallel to component supply section 6.

[0077] In Fig. 10, a connecting roller 62a and a connecting hook 62b are provided on each of the outer walls of the storage section 52 in the X direction (see also Fig. 11). The connecting roller 62a and the connecting hook 62b are provided at a predetermined distance in the Y direction. Also, a connecting portion 63 is provided on the front side of the cassette holder 15 of the dolly 13 on which the multiple tape feeders 7 are mounted (on the opposite side of the cassette holder 15 from the tape feeders 7). The connecting portion 63 is fixedly provided on the dolly 13. A pair of guide portions 64 are provided on both ends of the connecting portion 63 in the X direction.

[0078] Each guide section 64 includes a positioning block 65 and a connecting mechanism 66. When connecting the storage section 52 of the self-propelled component supply device V to the connecting section 63, the positioning block 65 abuts against the connecting roller 62a of the storage section 52 to position the storage section 52 in the Z direction. The connecting mechanism 66 includes a substantially L-shaped connecting member 66a and an air cylinder 66b that lifts the connecting member 66a obliquely upward. The connecting mechanism 66 also includes a built-in sensor (not shown) that detects that the connecting hook 62b of the storage section 52 abuts against the connecting member 66a when connecting the storage section 52 of the self-propelled component supply device V to the connecting section 63.

[0079] Next, a method for connecting the storage unit 52 of the self-propelled component supply device V to the connecting unit 63 will be described with reference to FIG. 12. In FIG. 12(a), the self-propelled component supply device V travels in a direction parallel to the carriage 13 of the component mounting device M3 to M6, approaches the carriage 13, and temporarily stops at a position where the storage unit 52 fits between a pair of guide units 64 of the connecting unit 63 in the X direction. Then, the self-propelled component supply device V releases the locking mechanism of the support unit 51. Next, the self-propelled component supply device V moves in the Y direction at a low speed while maintaining its posture parallel to the carriage 13 (arrow k1). Then, when the self-propelled component supply device V reaches a stop position where the connecting hook 62b of the storage unit 52 abuts against the connecting member 66a, it stops moving and activates the electromagnetic brake of the traveling mechanism 54.

[0080] 12(b), the connecting mechanism 66 then lifts the connecting member 66a connected to the connecting hook 62b diagonally upward (arrow k2). As a result, the storage unit 52 is transferred to the dolly 13 via the connecting part 63 (arrow k3), and the storage unit 52 becomes capable of supplying and retrieving the tape cassette C (replacement preparation work is completed).

[0081] As described above, the self-propelled component supplying device V has the function of automatically moving while holding a tape cassette C (storage container) that stores a plurality of components D, and supplying the components D in the tape cassette C to the tape feeder 7 (component supplying device). More specifically, the self-propelled component supplying device V includes a storage section 52 (storage container storage section) that stores the tape cassette C, and a cassette supplying mechanism 58 and a cassette recovery mechanism 61 (storage container transfer section) that move the tape cassette C between the storage section 52 and the cassette holder 15 (storage container holding device).

[0082] Further, the component mounting devices M3 to M6 are provided with a connecting unit 63 that connects to and holds the storage unit 52. When the storage container transfer unit moves the tape cassette C between the storage unit 52 and the cassette holder 15, the traveling means (traveling mechanism 54, traveling control unit 55a) stops the self-propelled component supply device V at a predetermined stopping position relative to the component mounting devices M3 to M6, and the connecting unit 63 connects to the storage unit 52 and holds the storage unit 52.

[0083] Next, with reference to Fig. 13, the collection of tape scraps W obtained by cutting the used carrier tape 14 that has been discharged from the tape outlet 7e after supplying the components D in the tape feeder 7 will be described. First, with reference to Fig. 13(a), a first embodiment for collecting tape scraps W will be described. The tape scraps W that have been discharged from the tape outlet 7e and cut to an appropriate length are stored in a collection container 70 fixed to the dolly 13. The self-propelled component supplying device V includes a suction device 71 that vacuum-sucks the tape scraps W from the collection container 70, a nozzle unit 72 whose tip position is movable and that vacuum-sucks the tape scraps W from the tip, and a storage box 73 that stores the vacuum-sucked tape scraps W.

[0084] When a predetermined amount of tape scraps W accumulates in the collection container 70, the tip of the nozzle unit 72 is moved into the collection container 70 in synchronization with the timing at which the self-propelled component supplying device V supplies the tape cassette C, and the tape scraps W are sucked up by the suction device 71 and collected in a storage box 73. In this way, the suction device 71 and the nozzle unit 72 form a scrap collection mechanism 74A (see FIG. 15) that collects the tape scraps W from the component mounting devices M3 to M6. That is, the self-propelled component supplying device V includes a scrap collection mechanism 74A (tape scrap collection means) that collects the tape scraps W after components are supplied, and the tape scrap collection means includes a suction device 71 that sucks up the tape scraps W. This allows the tape scraps W to be collected automatically without the help of an operator.

[0085] Next, a second embodiment for collecting the tape scraps W will be described with reference to Fig. 13(b). This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the tape scraps W are collected in a movable tape scrap collection box 76. During component mounting work, the tape scrap collection box 76 is placed at a predetermined position on the dolly 13. The self-propelled component supply device V includes a storage box moving device 77 such as an articulated robot having a gripper 77a for gripping the tape scrap collection box 76, and a storage box storage unit 78 for collecting the tape scrap collection box 76.

[0086] When a predetermined amount of tape waste W accumulates in the tape waste collection box 76, the storage box moving device 77 collects the tape waste collection box 76 into the storage box storage section 78 (arrow m1) in accordance with the timing when the self-propelled component supply device V supplies the tape cassette C. Then, an empty tape waste collection box 76 that has been stored in the storage box storage section 78 beforehand is placed in a predetermined position on the dolly 13. In this way, the tape waste collection box 76, the storage box moving device 77, and the storage box storage section 78 form a waste collection mechanism 74B (see FIG. 15) that collects the tape waste W from the component mounting devices M3 to M6.

[0087] That is, the self-propelled component supply device V is equipped with a waste tape collection mechanism 74B (tape waste collection means) that collects the waste tape W after components are supplied, and the waste tape collection means is equipped with a storage box moving device 77 (collection device) that collects the waste tape collection box 76 in which the waste tape W accumulates, to the self-propelled component supply device V. This allows the collection of the waste tape W to be realized in a short time. The collection device that collects the waste tape collection box 76 to the self-propelled component supply device V is not limited to an articulated robot. The collection device may be any device that can exchange the waste tape collection box 76 between the carriage 13 of the component mounting devices M3 to M6 and the self-propelled component supply device V. The collection device may be disposed on the component mounting devices M3 to M6 (carriage 13) instead of on the self-propelled component supply device V.

[0088] Next, the configuration of the control system of component mounting system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Component mounting lines L1 to L3 equipped in component mounting system 1 have the same configuration, and component mounting line L1 will be described below. Component mounting devices M3 to M6 equipped in component mounting line L1 have the same configuration, and component mounting device M3 will be described below.

[0089] 14, component mounting apparatus M3 includes a mounting control unit 22, a mounting memory unit 80, a tape feeder 7, a component mounting work unit 16, a connecting mechanism 66, and a communication unit 81. The communication unit 81 is a communication interface, and transmits and receives signals and data between the other component mounting apparatuses M4 to M6, the other component mounting lines L2 and L3, the management computer 3, and the component storage apparatus S via the communication network 2. The mounting control unit 22 controls the tape feeder 7 and the component mounting work unit 16 based on the component mounting data stored in the mounting memory unit 80, thereby causing the component mounting apparatus M3 to perform the component mounting work.

[0090] Furthermore, the mounting control unit 22 communicates with and works in conjunction with the self-propelled component supply device V via the management computer 3, and controls the connection mechanism 66 to execute a connection task of connecting the connection unit 63 to the storage unit 52 of the self-propelled component supply device V. Furthermore, the mounting control unit 22 sequentially transmits the mounting status including the number of components D consumed (remaining number) of the component mounting device M3 to the management computer 3.

[0091] 14, the management computer 3 includes a management control unit 82, a management storage unit 83, an input unit 84, a display unit 85, a communication unit 86, and a wireless communication unit 3a. The input unit 84 is an input device such as a keyboard, a touch panel, or a mouse, and is used when inputting operation commands and data. The display unit 85 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, and displays various screens such as an operation screen for operation by the input unit 84, as well as various information. The communication unit 86 is a communication interface, and transmits and receives signals and data between the component mounting devices M3 to M6 on the component mounting lines L1 to L3 and the component storage device S via the communication network 2. The wireless communication unit 3a transmits and receives signals and data between the self-propelled component supply device V wirelessly.

[0092] The management control unit 82 is a calculation device such as a CPU, and manages the component mounting system 1 based on information stored in the management storage unit 83. The management control unit 82 includes, as internal processing functions, a component out-of-stock management unit 82a, a component supply plan creation unit 82b, a component supply management unit 82c, and a collection timing calculation unit 82d. The management storage unit 83 is a storage device, and stores component mounting data, component management information 83a, component supply plan information 83b, and the like.

[0093] 14, component management information 83a includes information linking identification information N of each tape cassette C with the components D stored therein, the location of each tape cassette C, the remaining number of stored components D, the predicted time until the components run out, etc. Possible locations for tape cassette C include component storage device S, self-propelled component supply device V, and component mounting devices M3 to M6. If tape cassette C is located in component storage device S, component management information 83a includes information identifying that component storage device S and the position of the shelf on which it is stored.

[0094] Furthermore, when the tape cassette C is located in a self-propelled component supply device V, the component management information 83a includes information identifying the self-propelled component supply device V and the storage position within the storage unit 52 (supply cassette storage unit 52a, return cassette storage unit 52b). That is, the management computer 3 (component information management unit) stores the position and identification information N of the tape cassette C (storage container) stored in the storage unit 52 (storage container storage unit). Furthermore, when the tape cassette C is located in a component mounting device M3 to M6, the component management information 83a includes information identifying the component mounting device M3 to M6 (including information identifying the component mounting lines L1 to L3), the position within the component supply unit 6, and information on the corresponding tape feeder 7.

[0095] 14, management control unit 82 updates component management information 83a based on information transmitted from component storage device S, self-propelled component supply device V, and component mounting devices M3 to M6. Out-of-component management unit 82a predicts consumption of components D at each tape feeder 7 based on component management information 83a and component mounting data, calculates a predicted time until components run out, and updates component management information 83a.

[0096] Based on the component management information 83a and the component mounting data, the component supply plan creation unit 82b creates component supply plan information 83b including a component supply plan for supplying components D to each tape feeder 7 using a tape cassette C. The component supply plan information 83b includes the location of the tape cassette C to be supplied, the position of the tape feeder 7 that supplies the tape cassette C (component mounting lines L1 to L3, component mounting devices M3 to M6, position within the component supply unit 6), information specifying the self-propelled component supply device V that transports the tape cassette C to be supplied, the movement route within the floor F, and the like.

[0097] 14, component supply management unit 82c transmits instructions regarding supply work to component storage device S, self-propelled component supply device V, and component mounting devices M3 to M6 based on created component supply plan information 83b. Specifically, component supply management unit 82c instructs component storage device S which tape cassette C to store in self-propelled component supply device V. That is, management computer 3 (component information management unit) transmits information about the tape cassette C (storage container) to be supplied to component storage device S (component storage unit).

[0098] Component supply management unit 82c instructs self-propelled component supply device V on the tape cassettes C to be stored, the movement path within floor F, and the positions (component mounting lines L1-L3, component mounting devices M3-M6, and positions within component supply unit 6) of tape feeders 7 that supply tape cassettes C. Component supply management unit 82c instructs component mounting devices M3-M6 on the positions (positions within component supply unit 6) of tape feeders 7 that supply tape cassettes C.

[0099] Furthermore, when the self-propelled component supply device V supplies the tape feeder 7 with a tape cassette C, the component supply management unit 82c receives necessary information from the self-propelled component supply device V and the tape feeder 7 and transmits instructions to the self-propelled component supply device V and the tape feeder 7. Specifically, the component supply management unit 82c receives the identification information N of the tape cassette C read by the self-propelled component supply device V and verifies it against the information included in the component supply plan information 83b to confirm whether or not it is the tape cassette C that has been instructed to be supplied. That is, the management computer 3 (component information management unit) confirms whether or not the tape cassette C (storage container) is the tape cassette C that should be moved, based on the identification information N transmitted from the self-propelled component supply device V.

[0100] Furthermore, when the component supply management unit 82c confirms that the tape cassette C that the self-propelled component supply device V is about to supply is correct, it transmits information to the tape feeder 7 instructing it to accept the supply of the components D. That is, the management computer 3 (component information management unit) transmits information to the tape feeder 7 (component supply device) that is to supply the components D from the tape cassette C (storage container) instructing it to accept the supply of the components D. Furthermore, when the component supply management unit 82c receives information from the tape feeder 7 that the carrier tape 14 has been normally inserted, it transmits an instruction to the self-propelled component supply device V to stop pushing out the carrier tape 14.

[0101] 14, the collection timing calculation unit 82d calculates the collection timing of the tape scrap W of each component mounting device M3-M4 (or the component supply unit 6) based on the component management information 83a, the component mounting data, and the allowable storage capacity of the tape scrap W in the collection container 70 or the tape scrap collection box 76. The collection timing calculation unit 82d adds an instruction to collect the tape scrap W to the component supply plan information 83b based on the calculation result. In other words, the collection timing calculation unit 82d calculates the collection timing of the tape scrap W based on the mounting information of the component mounting devices M3-M6 included in the component management information 83a and the component mounting data. In this way, the management computer 3 becomes a component information management unit that stores and manages information on the components D.

[0102] 14, component storage device S includes a component storage control unit 91, a component storage memory unit 92, a component storage work unit 93, an identification information reading unit 94, and a communication unit 95. The component storage work unit 93 includes a transport mechanism that receives the tape cassettes C and the reels L (see FIG. 19) on which the carrier tapes 14 are wound and stored to a storage shelf included in the component storage device S, and removes them from the storage shelf and hands them over to the storage unit 52 of the self-propelled component supply device V.

[0103] The identification information reading unit 94 is an RF reader R or a barcode reader that reads the RFID 36 or barcode identification information N attached to the tape cassette C or reel L stored in the component storage device S. The communication unit 95 is a communication interface that transmits and receives signals and data between the communication network 2 and the management computer 3 and the component mounting devices M3 to M6. In other words, the component storage device S (component storage unit) can communicate with the management computer 3 (component information management unit). The component storage memory unit 92 stores information that links the identification information N read by the identification information reading unit 94 with the storage shelf. Various information about the stored tape cassette C (component D) stored in the component storage memory unit 92 is transmitted to the management computer 3 via the communication unit 95.

[0104] The component storage control unit 91 controls the component storage work unit 93 and the identification information reading unit 94 to execute storage work of receiving a tape cassette C or a reel L, reading the identification information N, and storing it in a storage shelf. The component storage control unit 91 also controls the component storage work unit 93 based on instructions from the management computer 3 to take out the specified tape cassette C or reel L from the storage shelf and hand it over to the self-propelled component supply device V. That is, based on information from the management computer 3 (component information management unit), the component storage device S (component storage unit) positions the tape cassette C or reel L (storage container) to be supplied at a position where the cassette supply mechanism 58 and cassette recovery mechanism 61 (storage container relocation unit) of the self-propelled component supply device V can move it to.

[0105] 15, the tape feeder 7 includes a feeder control unit 21, a feeder memory unit 96, a tape feed mechanism 24, a shutter mechanism 23, an operation / display panel 29, an insertion detection sensor Q, and a communication unit 97. The feeder memory unit 96 stores various information such as identification information N of the attached tape cassette C, the number of components D consumed, and the number remaining. The communication unit 97 is a communication interface, and transmits and receives signals and data with the mounting control unit 22. Furthermore, the communication unit 97 transmits and receives signals and data with the management computer 3 via the communication units 81 of the component mounting devices M3 to M6.

[0106] Feeder control unit 21 controls tape feed mechanism 24, shutter mechanism 23, and insertion detection sensor Q to transport leading tape 14(1), insert trailing tape 14(2), and transition from leading tape 14(1) to trailing tape 14(2). At that time, when feeder control unit 21 receives information from management computer 3 that self-propelled component supply device V is ready to insert trailing tape 14(2), it opens shutter 23a.

[0107] That is, when tape feeder 7 (component supply device) receives information instructing it to accept the supply of component D, it opens shutter 23a provided at tape insertion port 7d as an operation for accepting component D. Also, when insertion detection sensor Q detects that leading end 14b of trailing tape 14(2) has been inserted, feeder control unit 21 transmits that fact to management computer 3. This makes it possible to prevent carrier tape 14 (component D) from being erroneously inserted into tape feeder 7 that is not the target for supply.

[0108] 15, self-propelled part supply device V includes a supply control unit 55, a supply memory unit 98, a traveling mechanism 54, a cassette supply mechanism 58, a cassette recovery mechanism 61, an RF reader R, a scrap recovery mechanism 74A (or a scrap recovery mechanism 74B), and a wireless communication unit T. The wireless communication unit T wirelessly transmits and receives signals and data with the management computer 3. That is, self-propelled part supply device V includes a wireless communication unit T that can wirelessly communicate with the management computer 3 (parts information management unit).

[0109] The supply storage unit 98 stores supply part information 98a and the like. The supply part information 98a includes, in addition to the identification information N of the tape cassette C stored in the storage unit 52 and the stored position, information such as the correspondence between the tape cassette C to be supplied and the tape feeder 7, the supply order, the travel path within the floor F, and the timing of collecting the tape scraps W, which are transmitted from the management computer 3 based on the parts supply plan information 83b. That is, the self-propelled part supply device V stores the position and the identification information N of the tape cassette C (storage container) stored in the storage unit 52 (storage container storage unit). The supply control unit 55 is a calculation device such as a CPU, and includes a travel control unit 55a, an exchange control unit 55b, and a scrap collection control unit 55c as internal processing functions.

[0110] The travel control unit 55a controls the travel mechanism 54 based on the supply part information 98a to travel the self-propelled component supply device V along a specified route and stop it at a stop position in front of the specified component mounting devices M3 to M4. The replacement control unit 55b controls the cassette supply mechanism 58 based on the supply part information 98a to receive the tape cassette C to be supplied from the component storage device S, store it in the supply cassette storage unit 52a, and supply it to the tape feeder 7 to be supplied. The replacement control unit 55b also controls the cassette recovery mechanism 61 based on the supply part information 98a to recover the used tape cassette C, store it in the recovered cassette storage unit 52b, and return the recovered tape cassette C to a used cassette recovery device U arranged on the floor F.

[0111] The replacement control unit 55b also controls the cassette supply mechanism 58 and the RF reader R (information reading unit) to read the identification information N at least either when the tape cassette C (storage container) is moved from the component storage device S (component storage unit) to the supply cassette storage unit 52a (storage container storage unit) or after the tape cassette C (storage container) is moved from the component storage device S to the supply cassette storage unit 52a. The supply control unit 55 transmits the read identification information N to the management computer 3. That is, the self-propelled component supply device V transmits the identification information N read by the RF reader R (information reading unit) to the management computer 3 (component information management unit) via the wireless communication unit T.

[0112] The scrap collection control unit 55c controls the scrap collection mechanism 74A (scrap collection mechanism 74B) based on the supply part information 98a to collect the tape scraps W from the component mounting devices M3 to M6 that have been instructed to collect the tape scraps W. That is, based on the calculation result of the collection timing calculation unit 82d of the management computer 3, the self-propelled component supply device V collects the tape scraps W by the scrap collection mechanism 74A (scrap collection mechanism 74B) (tape scrap collection means). The scrap collection control unit 55c causes the collected tape scraps W to be disposed of in the tape scrap disposal unit G arranged on the floor F.

[0113] Next, in accordance with the flows of Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, a component supply method in the component mounting system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 18 and Fig. 19. In Fig. 16, the management control unit 82 of the management computer 3 acquires information on the consumption status of components D from the component mounting devices M3 to M6 included in the component mounting system 1, and updates the component management information 83a (ST1). Next, the component supply plan creation unit 82b creates component supply plan information 83b based on the updated component management information 83a and the component mounting data (ST2: component supply plan creation step).

[0114] Next, the self-propelled component supply device V instructed by the management computer 3 moves to the component storage device S, receives the tape cassette C to be supplied from the component storage device S also instructed by the management computer 3, and stores it in the supply cassette storage section 52a (ST3: supply cassette storage step). At that time, the RF reader R equipped in the self-propelled component supply device V reads the identification information N of the tape cassette C, and the read identification information N is linked to the information of the stored position and transmitted to the management computer 3.

[0115] 16, the self-propelled component supply device V moves to the stop position of the component mounting device M3-M6 to be supplied in accordance with an instruction from the management computer 3, and performs preparation work for replacing the tape cassette C (ST4: replacement preparation process). In the replacement preparation process (ST4), the storage unit 52 is connected to the component mounting device M3-M6 by the connection mechanism 66.

[0116] When the preparation for replacement is completed, the replacement work of the tape cassette C is started. With reference to FIG. 17, a tape cassette replacement method for collecting a used tape cassette C and mounting a tape cassette C to be replenished in the tape feeder 7 will be described. In FIG. 17, the replacement control unit 55b of the self-propelled component supplying device V moves the supply head 57 of the cassette supplying mechanism 58 to the rear of the tape cassette C to be replenished. Next, the replacement control unit 55b reads the identification information N of the tape cassette C to be replenished by the RF reader R, and transmits it to the management computer 3. That is, the self-propelled component supplying device V transmits information indicating that a component D of one stored tape cassette C (storage container) will be replenished to the management computer 3 (component information management unit).

[0117] The parts supply management unit 82c of the management computer 3 checks the transmitted identification information N against the stored parts supply plan information 83b (ST11) to confirm whether it is the desired tape cassette C (ST12: cassette checking step). That is, the self-propelled parts supply device V transmits the identification information N read by the RF reader R (information reading unit) to the management computer 3 (parts information management unit) via the wireless communication unit T, and the management computer 3 checks whether the tape cassette C (storage container) is the tape cassette C that should be moved based on the transmitted identification information N.

[0118] If it is not the desired tape cassette C (No in ST12), a message to that effect is sent to the management computer 3, and component supply to the tape feeder 7 is skipped (ST11). Note that the step of reading the identification information N in the self-propelled component supply device V (ST11) and the cassette matching step in the management computer 3 (ST12) may be omitted. In that case, when the self-propelled component supply device V is ready to supply the tape cassette C to be supplied according to the supply order of the component supply plan information 83b transmitted from the management computer 3 contained in the supply component information 98a, a message to that effect (information indicating that a component D of one stored tape cassette C will be supplied) is sent to the management computer 3.

[0119] 17, when it is confirmed that the tape cassette C is the desired tape cassette C in the cassette comparison step (ST12) (Yes), the component supply management unit 82c checks whether or not the tape cassette C to be collected is present at the upper holding position Hu based on the component management information 83a (ST13). When the tape cassette C is present at the upper holding position Hu (Yes in ST13), the replacement control unit 55b of the self-propelled component supply device V controls the cassette collection mechanism 61 to collect the used tape cassette C present at the lower holding position Hd (ST14: cassette collection step).

[0120] Here, the cassette collection step (ST14) by the cassette collection mechanism 61 will be specifically described with reference to Fig. 18(a). In Fig. 18(a), the collection head 60 of the cassette collection mechanism 61 moves in the Y direction from a vacant position (empty slot) in the collection cassette storage section 52b where no tape cassette C is stored to an external downward movement position Hm. The downward movement position Hm is behind the downward holding position Hd of the cassette holder 15 (between the cassette holder 15 and the self-propelled component supply device V), and is a position where the collection head 60 and the held tape cassette C do not interfere with surrounding tape cassettes C when the collection head 60 holding the tape cassette C moves back and forth in the X direction.

[0121] Next, the recovery head 60 moves in the X direction at downward movement position Hm until it is positioned behind the tape cassette C(1) to be recovered. Next, the recovery head 60 moves in the Y direction toward the cassette holder 15 and grips the tape cassette C(1) at the lower holding position Hd. Next, the recovery head 60, having gripped the tape cassette C(1), moves in the Y direction to downward movement position Hm (arrow n1). When the tape cassette C(1) is recovered from the lower holding position Hd, the tape cassette C(2), which was at the upper holding position Hu, moves to the lower holding position Hd (arrow n2).

[0122] Next, the recovery head 60 holding the tape cassette C(1) moves in the X direction at the downward movement position Hm to the front of an empty slot in the recovery cassette storage section 52b. Next, the recovery head 60 holding the tape cassette C(1) moves in the Y direction, places the tape cassette C(1) in the empty slot in the recovery cassette storage section 52b, and releases its grip.

[0123] In Fig. 17, next, feeder control unit 21 of tape feeder 7 opens shutter 23a (ST15: shutter opening step) in accordance with an instruction from management computer 3. In Fig. 18(b), shutter 23a of tape feeder 7 is opened (arrow n3).

[0124] 17, if there is no tape cassette C at the upper holding position Hu (No in ST13), there is only one tape cassette C in the cassette holder 15, and therefore the shutter opening step (ST15) is executed without retrieving the tape cassette C at the lower holding position Hd. In this manner, the management computer 3 (component information management unit) transmits information to the tape feeder 7 (component supply device) that is to replenish the components D in the tape cassette C(3) (storage container) instructing it to accept the replenishment of the components D, and upon receiving the information instructing it to accept the replenishment of the components D, the tape feeder 7 executes an operation (ST15) for accepting the replenishment of the components D.

[0125] 17, the replacement control unit 55b of the self-propelled component supply device V then controls the cassette supply mechanism 58 to move the tape cassette C(3) to be supplied to a supply position Hs of the tape feeder 7 to be supplied (ST16). Specifically, in the supply cassette storage unit 52a, the supply head 57 grips the tape cassette C(3) to be supplied and moves in the Y direction to the front supply position Hs. Next, the supply head 57 gripping the tape cassette C(3) moves in the X direction until it is located at the supply position Hs behind the tape feeder 7 to be supplied. In this way, the tape cassette C(3) to be supplied moves to the supply position Hs behind the tape feeder 7 to be supplied.

[0126] Next, exchange control unit 55b controls cassette supply mechanism 58 to push out carrier tape 14(3) from tape cassette C(3) and insert leading end 14b of carrier tape 14(3) through tape insertion opening 7d of tape feeder 7 (ST17). Thereafter, carrier tape 14(3) continues to be pushed out (ST17) until insertion detection sensor Q of tape feeder 7 detects leading end 14b of carrier tape 14(3) (Yes in ST18) (No in ST18).

[0127] In Fig. 18(b), the supply head 57 grips the tape cassette C(3) and moves it to the supply position Hs (arrow n4). Thereafter, in Fig. 19(a), the tape insertion means 57a pushes the push rod 39 of the tape cassette C(3) into the inside of the tape cassette C(3) (arrow n5), and pushes the carrier tape 14(3) toward the tape feeder 7, causing it to be inserted through the tape insertion opening 7d of the tape feeder 7 (arrow n6). In other words, the self-propelled component supply device V is equipped with the tape insertion means 57a which inserts and pushes the leading end 14b of the carrier tape 14(3) stored in the tape cassette C(3) (storage container) into the tape insertion opening 7d of the tape feeder 7 (autoload feeder).

[0128] Then, the tape insertion means 57a pushes the push rod 39 (carrier tape push-out member) into the inside of the tape cassette C(3) (storage container), thereby pushing out the carrier tape 14(3) from the tape cassette C(3). The leading end 14b of the carrier tape 14(3) inserted into the tape insertion opening 7d of the tape feeder 7 reaches the insertion detection sensor Q. When the insertion detection sensor Q detects the leading end 14b, it transmits a notice to the management computer 3, and the management computer 3 instructs the self-propelled component supply device V to end the pushing out of the carrier tape 14(3). In other words, when the insertion detection sensor Q (tape insertion detection unit) detects that the carrier tape 14(3) has been normally inserted, it notifies the self-propelled component supply device V of the fact, and the tape insertion means 57a stops pushing the carrier tape 14(3).

[0129] In FIG. 17, when the pushing-out of the carrier tape 14(3) is completed (Yes in ST18), the exchange control unit 55b controls the cassette supply mechanism 58 to release the grip on the tape cassette C(3) (ST19: grip release process) and moves the supply head 57 to the inside of the supply cassette storage unit 52a.

[0130] 19(b), the released tape cassette C(3) moves slightly behind the supply position Hs (arrow n7), and then moves in the X direction to a position in front of an empty slot in the supply cassette storage section 52a (for example, the slot in which the replenished tape cassette C(3) was stored). The supply head 57 then moves in the Y direction and moves into the supply cassette storage section 52a. The released tape cassette C(3) moves from the supply position Hs to the upper holding position Hu (arrow n8).

[0131] As described above, the steps from the shutter opening step (ST15) to the grip releasing step (ST19) constitute a cassette supplying step in which the tape cassette C(3) to be supplied is supplied by the self-propelled component supplying device V. In this manner, the cassette supplying mechanism 58 and the cassette recovery mechanism 61 (storage container transfer section) move the tape cassette C(3) (storage container) to be supplied from the supply cassette storage section 52a (first area) to the upper holding position Hu (first holding position), and move the used tape cassette C(1) (storage container) from the lower holding position Hd (second holding position) to the recovery cassette storage section 52b (second area).

[0132] In Fig. 16, when the cassette exchange process (ST5) in the connected component mounting devices M3 to M6 is completed, the scrap collection control unit 55c of the self-propelled component supply device V controls the scrap collection mechanism 74A (scrap collection mechanism 74B) based on the calculation result of the collection timing calculation unit 82d of the management computer 3 to collect the tape scraps W (ST6: tape scrap collection process). Next, the component supply management unit 82c of the management computer 3 or the supply control unit 55 of the self-propelled component supply device V judges whether the scheduled supply has been completed (ST7). If the supply has not been completed (No in ST7), the self-propelled component supply device V moves to the component mounting device M3 to M6 that is the next supply target, and the exchange preparation process (ST4) to the tape scrap collection process (ST6) are performed.

[0133] When the scheduled supply of tape cassettes C (components D) has been completed in component mounting devices M3 to M6 (Yes in ST7), the self-propelled component supplying device V moves to the tape waste disposal section G and discards the collected tape waste W (ST8). Next, the self-propelled component supplying device V moves to the used cassette recovery device U and hands over the used tape cassette C to be stored in the recovered cassette storage section 52b to the used cassette recovery device U.

[0134] As described above, component mounting system 1 of the present embodiment includes component mounting devices M3 to M6 that mount components D on board B, tape feeders 7 (component supplying devices) that are mounted on component mounting devices M3 to M6 and supply components D, and a self-propelled component supplying device V that holds a tape cassette C (storage container) that stores a plurality of components D and moves automatically to supply components D from carrier tape 14 wound and stored in tape cassette C to tape feeder 7. This allows components D to be automatically taken out from component storage device S (component storage section) and supplied to component mounting devices M3 to M6.

[0135] Next, a second embodiment of the tape cassette C1 that winds and stores the carrier tape 14 and supplies it to the tape feeder 7 will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in Figs. 6 and 7 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. The tape cassette C1 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it stores a reel L that winds and stores the carrier tape 14 inside. Fig. 20(a) shows the tape cassette C1 with the transparent cover 101 and the opaque cover 102 attached, and Fig. 20(b) shows the tape cassette C1 with the transparent cover 101 and the opaque cover 102 removed.

[0136] 20(a), a transparent cover 101 such as an acrylic plate is attached to the front of the reel L stored in the tape cassette C1. An opaque cover 102 such as a metal plate is attached to the front of the tape extrusion mechanism 33. A barcode 103 is attached to the side of the reel L, and the barcode 103 can be read through the transparent cover 101. In other words, with the transparent cover 101 and the opaque cover 102 attached to the tape cassette C1, the identification information N can be read by reading the barcode 103 with a barcode reader. The tape cassette C1 stores the carrier tape 14 delivered by a vendor in the tape cassette C1 as is in the form of a reel L, thereby reducing the number of steps required to transfer the carrier tape 14.

[0137] Next, a second embodiment of the self-propelled component supply device V1 and the cart 110 will be described with reference to Figures 21 and 22. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. The self-propelled component supply device V1 and the cart 110 of the second embodiment differ from the first embodiment in that the tape cassette C is replaced without connecting the storage unit 52 to the cart 110.

[0138] 21, self-propelled part supply device V1 is configured by stacking, from below, cart section 50, support device 111, and storage section 52. The lower part of support device 111 is fixed to cart section 50, and the upper part is fixed to storage section 52, so as to support storage section 52 from below. Support device 111 has a built-in slider and motor that moves the upper part relative to the lower part in the horizontal directions (X direction, Y direction) and the vertical direction (Z direction), and the motor is driven and controlled by supply control section 55 to move storage section 52.

[0139] 22, two light-shielding sensors 112 are disposed in the cart unit 50 at positions facing the cart unit 50 when the tape cassette C is replaced. In Fig. 21, two dogs 113 that shield the light-shielding sensors 112 are disposed in the cart unit 50 at positions facing the cart unit 50 when the tape cassette C is replaced. When the tape cassette C is replaced, each of the dogs 113 shields the light-shielding sensors 112 from light. The detection result of the light-shielding sensors 112 is sent to the supply control unit 55.

[0140] 22, two laser displacement meters 114 are disposed in the storage unit 52 at positions facing the dolly 110 when the tape cassette C is replaced. In FIG. 21, two targets 116 that reflect laser light 115 irradiated from the laser displacement meters 114 are disposed in the dolly 110 at positions facing the storage unit 52 when the tape cassette C is replaced. When the tape cassette C is replaced, the position of the storage unit 52 relative to the dolly 110 is measured by the laser light 115 that is returned after being irradiated by the laser displacement meters 114 to the targets 116. The measurement result is sent to the supply control unit 55.

[0141] Next, the replacement preparation process (ST4) in the self-propelled component supply device V1 will be described. First, the self-propelled component supply device V1 moves to the front of the cart 110 on which the tape feeder 7 to be supplied is mounted. After that, it moves at a low speed in the direction of the cart 110 (Y direction) until the light blocking sensor 112 detects light blocking. This completes rough alignment of the self-propelled component supply device V1 with respect to the cart 110. This position becomes the stop position. Next, the position of the storage unit 52 with respect to the cart 110 is measured by the laser displacement meter 114, and based on the measurement result, the supply control unit 55 controls the support device 111 to perform precise alignment of the self-propelled component supply device V1 with respect to the cart 110.

[0142] Thus, the self-propelled component supply device V1 is equipped with a carriage unit 50 (traveling means) that has a storage unit 52 (storage container storage unit) above and automatically moves or stops, and a position measuring means (light-shielding sensor 112, laser displacement meter 114) that measures the position relative to the component mounting devices M3 to M6. When the tape cassette C (storage container) is moved between the storage unit 52 and the cassette holder 15 (storage container holding device) by the storage container transfer unit (cassette supply mechanism 58, cassette recovery mechanism 61), the carriage unit 50 stops the self-propelled component supply device V1 at a predetermined stop position relative to the component mounting devices M3 to M6 based on the measurement result of the position measuring means.

[0143] The supply control unit 55 also monitors the measurement results of the laser displacement meter 114 while the tape cassette C is being replaced. If the worker bumps into the self-propelled component supply device V1 and the storage unit 52 moves out of the stop position, the replacement work is interrupted and the cart unit 50 and the support device 111 are controlled to align it with the stop position. In other words, when the self-propelled component supply device V1 moves out of the stop position, the storage container relocation unit interrupts the movement of the tape cassette C (storage container), and the cart unit 50 (traveling means) and the support device 111 correct the position of the self-propelled component supply device V1 so that it is at the stop position. In this way, the cart 110 does not require the coupling unit 63, and the structure of the cart 110 is simplified.

[0144] Next, a third embodiment of the self-propelled component supply device V2 will be described with reference to Fig. 23. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. The self-propelled component supply device V2 of the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it supplies and collects reels L (storage containers) instead of tape cassettes C, and in that the storage container transfer unit is an articulated robot.

[0145] The self-propelled part supply device V2 is configured by stacking a carriage unit 50 and a storage unit 120 from below. The storage unit 120 is fixed to the carriage unit 50. In the storage unit 120, a supply reel storage shelf 121a for storing the reels L to be supplied and a recovery reel storage shelf 121b for storing the recovered reels L are arranged above and below. In addition, an articulated robot 122 is arranged above the storage unit 120. A tip end 123 of the articulated robot 122 is provided with a gripping device for gripping the reel L, a camera or sensor for recognizing position information of the tip end 123 of the articulated robot 122 and recognizing the tape insertion port 7d of the tape feeder 7, and an insertion device (tape insertion means) for inserting the carrier tape 14 wound around and stored on the reel L into the tape insertion port 7d.

[0146] When the self-propelled component supply device V2 replaces the reel L, it moves to the front of the component mounting device M3 to M6 to be replaced, and recognizes a positioning mark (not shown) provided on the component mounting device main body or the dolly 131 by the articulated robot 122 and the tip part 123 to recognize the position information of the articulated robot 122 and the tip part 123. Next, the articulated robot 122 and the tip part 123 take out the reel L to be supplied from the supply reel storage shelf 121a and place it on the cassette holder 15, recognize the tape insertion port 7d of the tape feeder 7 by a camera, and insert the carrier tape 14 into the tape insertion port 7d. In addition, the articulated robot 122 and the tip part 123 retrieve the used reel L from the cassette holder 15 and place it on the retrieved reel storage shelf 121b.

[0147] The self-propelled component supply device V2 recognizes and corrects the position of the component mounting device main body or the dolly 131 by using a camera or a sensor provided at the tip 123, and recognizes the position of the reel L gripped by the articulated robot 122 and the tip 123, the position of the tape feeder 7, and the like, and therefore, alignment is possible without mechanically connecting the self-propelled component supply device V2 and the dolly 131. Note that the positioning mark may be provided not on the dolly 131 but on the component mounting device main body to which the dolly 131 is connected. Here, the camera or sensor provided at the tip 123 serves as recognition means for recognizing the positioning marks provided on the component mounting devices M3 to M6 (including the dolly 131).

[0148] In this embodiment, the supply reel storage shelf 121a and the recovery reel storage shelf 121b are arranged above and below in the storage section 120, but the arrangement of the shelves is not limited to this. Supply reels and recovery reels may be arranged so that they can be mixed on each of the upper and lower shelves, or only one shelf, either the upper or lower, may be provided so that supply reels and recovery reels can be arranged so that they can be mixed on each of the upper and lower shelves.

[0149] In this embodiment, the component storage unit that stores the storage containers (tape cassettes C, reels L) is not limited to the component storage device S. An operator may read the identification information N of the storage container using a portable terminal capable of wirelessly communicating with the management computer 3, store the storage container in a component warehouse (component storage unit), and remove the storage container and store it in the self-propelled component supply device V according to instructions transmitted from the management computer 3 to the portable terminal.

[0150] In this embodiment, the storage container (tape cassette C, reel L) for storing the components D is supplied to and collected from the component supply device (tape feeder 7) mounted on the component mounting devices M3 to M6, but the present invention is not limited to this. The component supply device (hereinafter referred to as "built-in tape feeder 130") that contains the components D (carrier tape 14) may be supplied to and collected from the component mounting devices M3 to M4 by a self-propelled component supply device V. Also, the reel holder that holds the reel L may be provided, and the reel may be supplied and collected by a component supply device that can move integrally with the carrier tape 14 (components D) wound and stored on the reel L.

[0151] 24 to 27, the configuration of self-propelled component supplying device V that supplies and retrieves component supply devices to and from component mounting devices M3 to M6 and the operation of supplying and retrieving the same will be described below using built-in tape feeder 130 as an example. Note that since the basic operation and configuration are almost the same as in the case of tape cassette C, only the operation of aligning self-propelled component supplying device V and supplying and retrieving built-in tape feeder 130 to and from component mounting devices M3 to M6 will be described.

[0152] First, a fourth embodiment of the self-propelled component supplying device V3 and the carriage 131 that supply and collect the built-in tape feeders 130 will be described with reference to Figs. 24 and 25. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in Figs. 10 and 11 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. A plurality of built-in tape feeders 130 are detachably mounted in parallel in the X direction above the carriage 131. A gripper 130a is provided on the front surface of the built-in tape feeder 130 (the outer surface when mounted on the component mounting devices M3 to M6). A connecting portion 63 is provided on the carriage 131 in front of the built-in tape feeder 130.

[0153] In Fig. 24, self-propelled component supply device V3 is configured by stacking, from the bottom, cart section 50, support section 51, and storage section 132. In Fig. 25, storage section 132 is provided with supply feeder storage shelf 132a for storing built-in tape feeders 130 to be supplied and recovery feeder storage shelf 132b for storing recovered built-in tape feeders 130, arranged side by side in the X direction (the traveling direction of self-propelled component supply device V3). On the outer wall in the X direction of storage section 132, connecting rollers 62a and connecting hooks 62b are respectively arranged (see also Fig. 25).

[0154] 24, an X-axis beam 133x is disposed along the X-direction on the ceiling of the storage section 132. An X-axis slider 133a driven by an X-axis linear drive mechanism is provided on the X-axis beam 133x so as to be movable in the X-direction along the X-axis beam 133x (arrow p2 in FIG. 25). The X-axis beam 133x, the X-axis slider 133a, and the X-axis linear drive mechanism constitute an X-axis movement mechanism.

[0155] Below the X-axis slider 133a, a Y-axis beam 133y is disposed along the Y direction (a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the self-propelled component supply device V). A Y-axis slider 133b driven by a linear drive mechanism is provided on the Y-axis beam 133y so as to be movable in the Y direction (arrow p1) along the Y-axis beam 133y. The Y-axis beam 133y, the Y-axis slider 133b, and the Y-axis linear drive mechanism constitute a Y-axis movement mechanism.

[0156] A transfer head 134 is attached to the Y-axis slider 133b. A gripping device 134a is provided on the transfer head 134. The gripping device 134a grips the gripping portion 130a of the built-in tape feeder 130 on the carriage 131, the supply feeder storage shelf 132a, and the return feeder storage shelf 132b.

[0157] The X-axis movement mechanism, the Y-axis movement mechanism, and the transfer head 134 constitute a feeder transfer mechanism. The feeder transfer mechanism grasps the built-in tape feeder 130 to be replenished that is stored at a predetermined position on the supply feeder storage shelf 132a, removes it from the storage section 132 to the outside, moves it in the X and Y directions outside the storage section 132, and attaches it to the cart 131. The feeder transfer mechanism also grasps the built-in tape feeder 130 to be collected that is attached to the cart 131, moves it in the X and Y directions outside the storage section 132, and stores it at a predetermined position on the collection feeder storage shelf 132b.

[0158] Next, the operation of the self-propelled component supplying device V3 to supply and retrieve built-in tape feeder 130 will be described. The process in which self-propelled component supplying device V3 stores built-in tape feeder 130 to be replenished (supply cassette storing process (ST3)) and the process in which it connects to connecting portion 63 (replacement preparation process (ST4)) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description will be omitted. When storing portion 132 is connected to connecting portion 63, the feeder transfer mechanism transfers built-in tape feeder 130 to be replenished from cart 131 to recovery feeder storage shelf 132b for storage, and transfers built-in tape feeder 130 to be replenished from supply feeder storage shelf 132a to cart 131 and attaches it to cart 131.

[0159] Next, a fifth embodiment of the self-propelled component supplying device V4 and the carriage 141 for supplying and collecting the built-in tape feeder 130 will be described with reference to Figs. 26 and 27. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the second embodiment shown in Figs. 21 and 22 and the fourth embodiment described above will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. A plurality of built-in tape feeders 130 are detachably mounted in parallel in the X direction above the carriage 141. The self-propelled component supplying device V4 is configured by stacking a carriage unit 50, a support device 111, and a storage unit 132 from below. The light-shielding sensor 112 is disposed on the carriage unit 50, a dog 113 on the carriage 141, a laser displacement meter 114 on the storage unit 132, and a target 116 on the carriage 141.

[0160] In the replacement preparation process (ST4), the operation of the self-propelled component supply device V4 to align with the cart 141 is the same as in the second embodiment (the self-propelled component supply device V1 and the cart 110), and a description thereof will be omitted. After the alignment, the operation of the self-propelled component supply device V4 to supply and collect the built-in tape feeder 130 is the same as in the self-propelled component supply device V3 of the fourth embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

[0161] The above-described embodiments can be implemented in appropriate combination. [Industrial Applicability]

[0162] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The component mounting system of the present invention has the effect of reducing the workload of a worker involved in component replacement work, and is useful in the field of component mounting in which components are mounted on a board. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 1 Component mounting system 3. Management computer (parts information management section) 15 Cassette holder (container holding device) 51 Support part 52, 120, 132 Storage section (storage container storage section) 52a Supply cassette storage section (first area) 52b Recovery cassette storage area (second area) 63 Connecting part 112 Light shielding sensor (position measurement means) 114 Laser displacement meter (position measurement means) B Substrate C, C1 Tape cassette (storage container) D parts Hu Upper holding position (first holding position) Hd Lower holding position (second holding position) L Reel (storage container) M3~M6 component mounting equipment R RF reader (information reading unit) S Parts storage device (parts storage section) T Wireless Communication Section V, V1, V2, V3, V4 Self-Propelled Component Supply Device

Claims

1. a holding device that holds a container for storing a carrier tape containing a plurality of components, the holding device having a first holding position at which the container can be held, and a second holding position located below the first holding position; a head that picks up components from the carrier tape stored in the container held at the first holding position of the holding device and mounts the components on a substrate; a storage section for storing the container, the storage section having a first area that is a space in which the container can be placed, and a second area located below the first area; A coupling mechanism coupled to a coupling portion provided in the storage portion; a transfer unit connected to the connecting mechanism and configured to move the container between the storage unit and the holding device, A component mounting system in which the transfer unit moves the container placed in the first area to the first holding position, and the container held at the second holding position to the second area.

2. The component mounting system according to claim 1 , wherein the holding device includes the coupling mechanism.

3. The component mounting system according to claim 1 , wherein the container is a tape feeder that houses the carrier tape.

4. A component mounting apparatus that holds a container for storing a carrier tape containing a plurality of components in a holding device, removes components from the carrier tape stored in the container held by the holding device, and mounts the components on a substrate, comprising: a supply method for supplying the container to the holding device, the method comprising: a first step of moving a first container, which is the container, from the storage section connected to the holding device by a connecting mechanism to the holding device by a transfer section that moves the container between the storage section that stores the container and the holding device; a second step of moving the second container, which is the container, from the holding device to the storage unit connected to the holding device by the transfer unit; the holding device has a first holding position at which the container can be held, and a second holding position located below the first holding position; The storage unit has a first area that is a space in which the container can be placed, and a second area located below the first area, In the first step, the first container is moved from the first area to the first holding position; A replenishment method, wherein in the second step, the second container is moved from the second holding position to the second area.

Images