jig

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of suppressing a body of fixture.SOLUTION: A fixture includes a pin bundle provided with a plurality of rod-like pins and a restriction mechanism restricting the pin bundle, and holds a work-piece with the plurality of pins composing the pin bundle. The plurality of pins may be arranged in a bundle shape with axial directions in parallel and with adjacent pins contactable. The restriction mechanism may bring the adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact to restrict the plurality of pins by pressing an outer peripheral surface of the pin bundle from the surroundings of the pin bundle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a jig for holding a workpiece.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a jig including a plurality of rod-shaped pins. In the jig of Patent Document 1, a plurality of pins are constrained by a receiving jig body and a crimping device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the jig of Patent Document 1, since a receiving jig body and a crimping device are used to constrain a plurality of pins, the size of the jig becomes large. Therefore, this specification provides a technology capable of suppressing the size of the jig.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In a first aspect of the present technology, the jig includes a pin bundle including a plurality of rod-shaped pins and a restraining mechanism that restrains the pin bundle, and the workpiece is held by the plurality of pins constituting the pin bundle. The plurality of pins may be arranged in a bundle state with their axial directions parallel and may be arranged in a state where adjacent pins are in contact with each other. The restraining mechanism may restrain the plurality of pins by pressing the outer peripheral surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle to bring the adjacent pins into contact with each other.

[0006] According to this configuration, when restraining a plurality of pins, the plurality of pins gather closely, so that the size of the jig can be suppressed.

[0007] In a second embodiment, the restraining mechanism in the first embodiment may include an elastic member positioned around the pin bundle. The elastic member may be compressed along the axial direction of the pin bundle, thereby elastically deforming toward the pin bundle and pressing against the outer surface of the pin bundle. With this configuration, the pin bundle can be restrained simply by compressing the elastic member, thus reducing the size of the jig.

[0008] In a third embodiment, in the first embodiment, the restraining mechanism may include an elastic member positioned around the pin bundle. The elastic member may be tubular in shape and expand by gas injection, causing it to elastically deform toward the pin bundle and press against the outer surface of the pin bundle. With this configuration, the pin bundle can be restrained simply by expanding the elastic member, thus reducing the size of the jig.

[0009] In a fourth embodiment, in the first embodiment, the restraining mechanism may include a wedge positioned around the pin bundle and pressing against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle. With this configuration, the pin bundle can be restrained by the wedge, thus reducing the size of the jig.

[0010] In the fifth embodiment, in any of the first to fourth embodiments, the pin may be configured with a hexagonal prism shape in part in its axial direction. This configuration allows for stable restriction of the movement of multiple pins.

[0011] In the sixth embodiment, in any of the first to fifth embodiments, the tip of the pin may be configured to be able to attract a workpiece. This configuration allows for stable holding of the workpiece.

[0012] In a seventh embodiment, in the first embodiment, the restraining mechanism may include a first member that covers a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle and a second member that covers another portion of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle, wherein the second member presses against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle by approaching the first member. This configuration allows for the restraint of multiple pins in the pin bundle with a simple configuration.

[0013] In the eighth embodiment, the jig may further include a moving mechanism for moving the second member toward the first member, as in the seventh embodiment. The moving mechanism may include a roller rotatably attached to the second member, and the second member may be moved toward the first member by rotating the roller. With this configuration, the pressing force acting on the pin bundle can be adjusted by using the roller.

[0014] In the ninth embodiment, the moving mechanism may include a vertical member that moves longitudinally with respect to the roller, as in the eighth embodiment. The vertical member may include an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction and on which the roller makes contact. The moving mechanism may rotate the roller that is in contact with the inclined surface by moving the vertical member in the longitudinal direction. This configuration allows the roller to be rotated with a simple configuration.

[0015] In the tenth embodiment, in any of the seventh to ninth embodiments, the second member may have a curved pressing surface that presses against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle. This configuration makes it easier to transmit the pressing force from the second member to the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle.

[0016] In the eleventh embodiment, in any of the seventh to tenth embodiments, the second member may be provided with a friction-reducing portion that reduces friction with surrounding members during movement. This configuration allows the second member to move smoothly and facilitates the transmission of the pressing force from the second member to the pin bundle.

[0017] In the 12th aspect, in any one of the 7th to 11th aspects, the jig may further include a restoring mechanism that applies a restoring force to the second member to return the second member to its original position. According to this configuration, the pin bundle can be released from the constrained state with a simple configuration.

[0018] In the 13th aspect, in any one of the 1st to 12th aspects, the jig may further include a plurality of pin support members that support the plurality of pins. Each of the pin support members may be composed of a spring that expands and contracts in the axial direction of each of the pins. The spring constant of the plurality of pin support members that support the plurality of pins located at the central portion in the radial direction of the pin bundle may be larger than the spring constant of the plurality of pin support members that support the plurality of pins located at the peripheral portion of the pin bundle.

[0019] According to this configuration, by holding the workpiece at the portion where the spring constant of the pin support member is large, when taking out the workpiece from the pin bundle, the workpiece can be easily taken out by utilizing the restoring force of the pin support member.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] Perspective view of the jig of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Top view of the jig of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] Enlarged view of part IV of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] Diagram schematically showing a plurality of pins of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Diagram schematically showing a pressing member of a modified example. [Figure 7] Perspective view of a pin of a modified example. [Figure 8] Diagram schematically showing a pin of a modified example. [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view of the jig of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] Enlarged view of part X of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] Top view of the jig of the third embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 11 shows the cross-sectional view between XII and XII. [Figure 13] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of XII-XII (a view when the second member moves toward the first member). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] (First embodiment) The jig 2 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the jig 2 of the first embodiment, Figure 2 is a top view of the jig 2 of the first embodiment, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 1-3, the jig 2 of the embodiment comprises a pin bundle 20 having a plurality of pins 10 and a holding mechanism 50 that holds the pin bundle 20. The jig 2 is a device that holds a workpiece W with a plurality of pins 10 constituting the pin bundle 20. The workpiece W held by the jig 2 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a mechanical part or an electrical part.

[0022] The pin bundle 20 comprises a plurality of rod-shaped pins 10. The pin bundle 20 is formed by arranging the plurality of pins 10 in a bundle. The pin bundle 20 is configured in a hexagonal shape when viewed from above. In modified examples, the pin bundle 20 may be configured in a circular or elliptical shape when viewed from above. The pin bundle 20 may also be configured in other polygonal shapes (for example, a square or octagon) when viewed from above.

[0023] The multiple pins 10 constituting the pin bundle 20 are arranged, for example, in a hexagonal close-packed structure or a face-centered cubic lattice when viewed from above. The multiple pins 10 are arranged side by side so that the axial directions (longitudinal directions) of each pin 10 are parallel. Each pin 10 is made of, for example, metal or resin. In a modified example, each pin 10 may be a metal rod with a resin coating on its surface. When the workpiece W is not being held, the multiple pins 10 are arranged so that their tips 12 are flush with each other. The multiple pins 10 are arranged so that they can move back and forth in the axial direction (longitudinal direction). The base 14 of the pins 10 is fixed to a pin support member 52, which will be described later.

[0024] As shown in Figure 4, each pin 10 is generally rod-shaped and comprises a small-diameter cylindrical first portion 16 and a large-diameter cylindrical second portion 18. The first portion 16 is located at both ends of the pin 10 in the axial direction. The second portion 18 is located in the center of the pin 10 in the axial direction. In modified examples, each pin 10 may not have the second portion 18 and may be cylindrical. In other modified examples, each pin 10 may be prismatic. The tip portion 12 of each pin 10 is configured as a convex curved surface. In modified examples, the tip portion 12 of each pin 10 may be planar.

[0025] Multiple pins 10 are arranged so that adjacent pins 10 can contact each other. Each pin 10 can contact multiple surrounding pins 10. When the pin bundle 20 is not constrained, there is a small gap between adjacent pins 10. When the pin bundle 20 is constrained, adjacent pins 10 and the second portions 18 of the pins 10 contact each other. The side surface of the second portion 18 of one adjacent pin 10 contacts the side surface of the second portion 18 of the other pin 10.

[0026] Next, the holding mechanism 50 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the holding mechanism 50 comprises a plurality of pin support members 52 and a pin bundle restraint mechanism 40. The pin support members 52 are made of springs that expand and contract in the axial direction of the pin 10. The pin support members 52 are fixed to the base 14 of the pin 10. The pin support members 52 support the pin 10 so that the pin 10 can move in the axial direction. When the jig 2 holds the workpiece W and the pin 10 moves downward, the elastic pin support members 52 contract. When the workpiece W is removed from the jig 2 and the elastic pin support members 52 extend, the pin 10 moves upward.

[0027] The pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 is a device for restraining the pin bundle 20. The pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 comprises a plurality of elastic members 42, a compression member 44, and an actuator 46.

[0028] Multiple elastic members 42 are arranged around the pin bundle 20, surrounding it. The multiple elastic members 42 are positioned to face the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. For example, if the outer shape of the pin bundle 20 is hexagonal, six elastic members 42 face the six sides of the pin bundle 20. Each elastic member 42 is made of, for example, solid soft rubber. As shown in Figure 4, the elastic members 42 are elastically deformed by being compressed by the compression members 44. The elastic members 42 are elastically deformed toward the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. By elastically deforming, the elastic members 42 press against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. More specifically, the elastic members 42 press against the sides of the second portion 18 of the pins 10 that are located on the outer circumferential part of the pin bundle 20. As the elastic members 42 press against the pin bundle 20, adjacent pins 10 among the multiple pins 10 constituting the pin bundle 20 come into contact with each other. This restrains the multiple pins 10 that make up the pin bundle 20. The movement of the multiple pins 10 is restricted as they come into close contact with each other.

[0029] The compression member 44 comprises an upper member 80 and a lower member 82, and the upper member 80 and the lower member 82 compress the elastic member 42. The elastic member 42 is positioned between the upper member 80 and the lower member 82. The compression member 44 compresses multiple elastic members 42 along the axial direction of the pin bundle 20. The pin bundle 20 is restrained by the compression of the multiple elastic members 42.

[0030] The upper member 80 and the lower member 82 are each provided with openings 84 and 86 into which the pin bundle 20 is inserted. The openings 84 and 86 are configured in a hexagonal shape when viewed from above (see Figure 2). In modified examples, the openings 84 and 86 may be configured in a circular or elliptical shape when viewed from above. Alternatively, the openings 84 and 86 may be configured in other polygonal shapes (for example, square or octagonal) when viewed from above.

[0031] The actuator 46 (see Figure 3) is a device that drives the compression member 44. The actuator 46 moves the upper member 80 and the lower member 82 of the compression member 44 relative to each other along the axial direction of the pin bundle 20. For example, the actuator 46 is mechanically connected to the upper member 80 of the compression member 44 and is configured to move the upper member 80 up and down. As the actuator 46 moves the upper member 80 downward, the upper member 80 approaches the lower member 82, thereby compressing the multiple elastic members 42. In a modified example, the actuator 46 may be mechanically connected to the lower member 82 and be configured to move the lower member 82 up and down. The configuration of the mechanical connection between the actuator 46 and the compression member 44 is not particularly limited. The actuator 46 can be, for example, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric.

[0032] Next, the method of holding the workpiece W using the jig 2 described above will be explained. In the jig 2, the workpiece W is pressed against the tips 12 of the multiple pins 10 of the pin bundle 20, causing some of the multiple pins 10 to move downward. In this state, the compression member 44 of the pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 compresses the elastic member 42, causing the elastic member 42 to elastically deform toward the pin bundle 20. The elastic member 42 presses against the outer surface of the pin bundle 20 by elastically deforming. As a result, as shown in Figure 5, adjacent pins 10 of the pin bundle 20 come into contact with each other, and the movement of the multiple pins 10 is restricted. As a result, the workpiece W can be held by the jig 2. The elastic member 42 restrains the multiple pins 10, causing the multiple pins 10 to cooperate in holding the workpiece W.

[0033] (effect) The jig 2 of the first embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the jig 2 comprises a pin bundle 20 having a plurality of rod-shaped pins 10 and a pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 that restrains the pin bundle 20. The plurality of pins 10 are arranged so that adjacent pins 10 can come into contact with each other. The pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 restrains the plurality of pins 10 by pressing the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20 from around the pin bundle 20 with an elastic member 42, thereby bringing adjacent pins 10 of the pin bundle 20 into contact with each other. With this configuration, the workpiece W can be held by restraining the plurality of pins 10. At this time, since the plurality of pins 10 are densely packed together and in contact with each other, the size of the jig 2 can be reduced.

[0034] The elastic member 42 is compressed along the axial direction of the pin bundle 20, causing it to elastically deform toward the pin bundle 20 and press against the outer surface of the pin bundle 20. With this configuration, the pin bundle 20 can be restrained simply by compressing the elastic member 42, thus reducing the size of the jig 2.

[0035] (modified version) (1) In the above embodiment, the elastic member 42 was compressed to press against the outer surface of the pin bundle 20, but the invention is not limited to this configuration. Also, in the above embodiment, the elastic member 42 was solid, but the invention is not limited to this configuration. In a modified example, as shown in Figure 6, the elastic member 42 may be a tubular shape with a hollow portion 422. The tubular elastic member 42 expands when a gas such as air is injected into the hollow portion 422. The elastic member 42 expands due to the injection of gas into the hollow portion 422 and elastically deforms toward the pin bundle 20. The elastic member 42 presses against the outer surface of the pin bundle 20 by elastically deforming toward the pin bundle 20. With this configuration, the pin bundle 20 can be restrained simply by expanding the elastic member 42, so the size of the jig 2 can be reduced.

[0036] (2) In the above embodiment, the second portion 18 of the pin 10 was configured in a cylindrical shape, but the configuration is not limited to this. In a modified example, as shown in Figure 7, the second portion 18 of the pin 10 may be configured in a hexagonal prism shape. The axial central portion of the pin 10 is configured in a hexagonal prism shape. When the pin bundle 20 is constrained, the sides of adjacent pins 10 and the hexagonal prism-shaped second portion 18 of the pin 10 come into contact with each other. With this configuration, the movement of multiple pins 10 can be stably restricted when the pin bundle 20 is constrained.

[0037] (3) In a modified example, the tip 12 of the pin 10 may be configured to attract a workpiece W. For example, the tip 12 of the pin 10 may have magnetic force, and the metal workpiece W may be attracted to the tip 12 of the pin 10 by that magnetic force. Alternatively, the tip 12 of the pin 10 may have adhesive force. For example, the tip 12 of the pin 10 may be coated with an adhesive. The workpiece W may be attracted and held to the tip 12 of the pin 10 by the adhesive force of the adhesive.

[0038] (4) In a modified example, as shown in Figure 8, the pin 10 may be provided with a suction port 70 and a suction passage 72 for drawing in air. The suction port 70 is provided at the tip 12 of the pin 10 and opens in the axial direction of the pin 10. The suction passage 72 communicates with the suction port 70 and extends in the axial direction of the pin 10. The suction passage 72 is connected to, for example, a suction device (not shown) for drawing in air. In this configuration, the workpiece W can be held by suction at the tip 12 of the pin 10 by drawing in air through the suction port 70 and the suction passage 72. With this configuration, the workpiece W can be held stably.

[0039] (5) In the above embodiment, one pin support member 52 supported one pin 10, but the configuration is not limited to this. In a modified example, the pin support member (not shown) may be made of a low-rebound sponge, and one pin support member may support multiple pins 10.

[0040] (6) In the above embodiment, the pin bundle 20 was restrained by a plurality of elastic members 42, but the configuration is not limited to this. In a modified example, the pin bundle 20 may be restrained by a single elastic member 42. For example, the elastic member 42 may be in the shape of a ring that encircles the pin bundle 20.

[0041] In the above embodiment, the jig 2 was used vertically, and the axial direction of the pin 10 was oriented in the up-and-down direction, but the configuration is not limited to this. In a modified example, the jig 2 may be used horizontally, and the axial direction of the pin 10 may be oriented in the left-right direction. The orientation of the jig 2 is not particularly limited.

[0042] (Second example) The jig 2 of the second embodiment will now be described. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the jig 2 of the second embodiment, and Figure 10 is an enlarged view of part X of Figure 9. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the jig 2 of the second embodiment includes a pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 comprising a plurality of wedges 90, a plurality of support members 92, a pressing member 96, and an actuator 98.

[0043] Multiple wedges 90 are arranged around the pin bundle 20, enclosing it. The multiple wedges 90 are positioned to face the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. For example, if the outer shape of the pin bundle 20 is hexagonal, six wedges 90 will face the six sides of the pin bundle 20. Each wedge 90 is made from a rigid material, such as metal.

[0044] Multiple support members 92 are arranged around the pin bundle 20, enclosing it. The multiple support members 92 are positioned to face the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. For example, if the outer shape of the pin bundle 20 is hexagonal, six support members 92 will face the six sides of the pin bundle 20.

[0045] An insertion portion 94 is formed between the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20 and the support member 92. The insertion portion 94 faces the tip portion 91 of the wedge 90 in the axial direction of the pin bundle 20. The tip portion 91 of the wedge 90 is inserted into the insertion portion 94. The support member 92 supports the wedge 90 when the tip portion 91 of the wedge 90 is inserted into the insertion portion 94.

[0046] The pressing member 96 is positioned around the pin bundle 20, enclosing it. The pressing member 96 is positioned to face the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. The pressing member 96 faces the multiple wedges 90 in the axial direction of the pin bundle 20. The pressing member 96 presses the multiple wedges 90 toward the insertion portion 94.

[0047] The actuator 98 is a device that drives the pressing member 96. The actuator 98 is mechanically connected to the pressing member 96 and is configured to move the pressing member 96 up and down. When the actuator 98 moves the pressing member 96 downward, multiple wedges 90 are pressed toward the insertion portion 94. As a result, the tips 91 of the wedges 90 are inserted into the insertion portion 94. The actuator 98 can be configured as, for example, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric.

[0048] In the jig 2 of the second embodiment, the tip 91 of the wedge 90 is inserted into the insertion part 94, causing the wedge 90 to press against the outer surface of the pin bundle 20. As the wedge 90 presses against the pin bundle 20, adjacent pins 10 among the multiple pins 10 constituting the pin bundle 20 come into contact with each other. This restrains the multiple pins 10 constituting the pin bundle 20. With this configuration, the pin bundle 20 can be restrained by the wedge 90, thus reducing the size of the jig 2.

[0049] (modified version) In the above example, the pin bundle 20 was restrained by multiple wedges 90, but the configuration is not limited to this. In a modified example, the pin bundle 20 may be restrained by a single wedge 90. For example, the wedge 90 may be in the shape of a ring that encircles the pin bundle 20.

[0050] (Third embodiment) The jig 2 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 11 is a top view of the jig 2 of the third embodiment, and Figures 12 and 13 are cross-sectional views taken along line XII-XII in Figure 11. Of these, Figure 13 shows the state when the second member 102 of the pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 has moved toward the first member 100. As shown in Figures 11 to 13, the jig 2 of the third embodiment includes a first member 100 that covers a part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20, and a second member 102 that covers another part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. The pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 also includes a moving mechanism 104 that moves the second member 102 toward the first member 100 (to the right in Figures 12 and 13).

[0051] As shown in Figure 11, the first member 100 comprises a pair of first parts 110 and a second part 112 located between the pair of first parts 110. The first member 100 surrounds the outer surface of the pin bundle 20 from three directions with the first parts 110 and the second part 112. The first member 100 is configured, for example, in the shape of the Japanese katakana character "コ" when viewed from above.

[0052] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the first member 100 extends in the axial direction of the pin bundle 20 when viewed in a longitudinal section. The first portion 110 and the second portion 112 of the first member 100 face a part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0053] The second member 102 of the pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 faces the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20 that is not covered by the first member 100. The second member 102 is a member that moves toward the first member 100 (i.e., approaches the first member 100) and presses against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0054] The second member 102 comprises a main body portion 120, a pressing portion 121 protruding from the main body portion 120 toward the first member 100, and a shaft portion 124 fixed to the main body portion 120. The second member 102 also comprises a plurality of protrusions 125 (an example of friction reduction portion) protruding from the main body portion 120 toward a plurality of first guide members 130, which will be described later.

[0055] The main body portion 120 of the second member 102 is provided with a recess 123. The recess 123 extends in a groove-like manner in the vertical direction. The main body portion 120 is configured, for example, in the shape of the Japanese katakana character "コ" when viewed from above. The recess 123 is provided on the part of the main body portion 120 opposite to the first member 100 (the left side in Figure 11). The recess 123 is recessed towards the first member 100 side (the right side in Figure 11).

[0056] The pressing portion 121 is fixed to the portion of the main body 120 that is on the side of the first member 100 (right side in Figure 11). The pressing portion 121 has a curved pressing surface 122 (see Figures 12 and 13). The pressing surface 122 is configured as a convex surface that protrudes toward the side of the first member 100 (right side in Figures 12 and 13). The pressing surface 122 faces a part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0057] The shaft portion 124 is fixed to the main body portion 120 so as not to rotate relative to the main body portion 120. The shaft portion 124 is positioned in the recess 123 provided in the main body portion 120 so as to cross the recess 123 and extends laterally. The shaft portion 124 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. In a modified example, the shaft portion 124 may be attached to the main body portion 120 so as to rotate relative to the main body portion 120.

[0058] Multiple protrusions 125 project laterally from the main body 120. Multiple protrusions 125 project in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. Multiple protrusions 125 are provided on the portion of the second member 102 that is on the side of the multiple first guide members 130 (upper and lower sides in Figure 11). The tip of each protrusion 125 is curved.

[0059] Next, the moving mechanism 104 will be described. The moving mechanism 104 comprises a housing 148, a first roller 140, and a plurality of second rollers 142. The moving mechanism 104 also comprises a vertical member 143 extending in the vertical direction and an actuator 146 that moves the vertical member 143 in the vertical direction.

[0060] The first roller 140 is positioned in a recess 123 provided in the main body 120 of the second member 102. The first roller 140 is supported by the shaft 124 of the second member 102. The first roller 140 is rotatably mounted on the shaft 124. In a modified example, the first roller 140 may be fixed to the shaft 124 so as not to rotate relative to the shaft 124. In this case, the shaft 124 is rotatably mounted on the main body 120 of the second member 102. The first roller 140 can move toward the first member 100 side (right side in Figures 12 and 13) together with the second member 102 while rotating. The first roller 140 can also move toward the opposite side of the first member 100 (left side in Figures 12 and 13) together with the second member 102 while rotating.

[0061] Multiple second rollers 142 are arranged at intervals in the vertical direction. Multiple second rollers 142 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. Multiple second rollers 142 are positioned on the opposite side of the first member 100 from the first roller 140 (left side in Figures 12 and 13) in the direction in which the second member 102 moves. Each second roller 142 is supported by the housing 148. Each second roller 142 is rotatably mounted to the housing 148. Each second roller 142 is mounted to the housing 148 so as not to move in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0062] The vertical member 143 is positioned between the first roller 140 and the plurality of second rollers 142. The vertical member 143 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The vertical member 143 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The vertical member 143 is movable longitudinally with respect to the first roller 140. The vertical member 143 is movable longitudinally along the plurality of second rollers 142.

[0063] The vertical member 143 has an inclined surface 144 that is inclined with respect to the vertical direction. The inclined surface 144 is inclined with respect to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The inclined surface 144 is inclined such that the lower side protrudes more toward the first member 100 than the upper side. The first roller 140 makes contact with the inclined surface 144.

[0064] The actuator 146 is mechanically connected to the vertical member 143 and is configured to move the vertical member 143 up and down. The actuator 146 moves the vertical member 143 in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The actuator 146 can be configured as, for example, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric.

[0065] The jig 2 of the third embodiment further includes a plurality of guide members (a pair of first guide members 130 and a pair of second guide members 132) that guide the second member 102, and a restoration mechanism 106 that moves the second member 102 to the opposite side from the first member 100 (the left side in Figures 12 and 13).

[0066] A pair of first guide members 130 are connected to a pair of first portions 110 of the first member 100 (see Figure 11). The pair of first guide members 130 extend in the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The pair of first guide members 130 surround the second member 102 laterally. The pair of first guide members 130 restrict the movement of the second member 102 in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second member 102 moves (the up and down direction in Figure 11).

[0067] Each of the pair of first guide members 130 faces a protrusion 125 of the second member 102. The tip of each protrusion 125 contacts each first guide member 130. This reduces friction between the second member 102 and the first guide members 130.

[0068] A pair of second guide members 132 are fixed to the housing 148 (see Figures 12 and 13). The pair of second guide members 132 extend in the direction in which the second member 102 moves. The pair of second guide members 132 surround the second member 102 in the vertical direction. Each of the pair of second guide members 132 faces the main body portion 120 of the second member 102. The pair of second guide members 132 restrict the vertical movement of the second member 102.

[0069] The restoring mechanism 106 is a mechanism for returning the second member 102 to its original position. The restoring mechanism 106 is connected to the second member 102 and the housing 148. The restoring mechanism 106 is equipped with an elastic member 160 that exerts a restoring force. The elastic member 160 is made up of, for example, a spring that expands and contracts in the direction in which the second member 102 moves. When the second member 102 moves toward the first member 100, the elastic member 160 provides a restoring force to the second member 102 to return it to its original position. The elastic member 160 provides a restoring force to the second member 102 that moves it toward the opposite side of the first member 100 (the left side in Figures 12 and 13).

[0070] In the jig 2 of the third embodiment having the above configuration, the actuator 146 of the moving mechanism 104 moves the vertical member 143 up and down. When the vertical member 143 moves upward, the first roller 140, which is in contact with the inclined surface 144 of the vertical member 143, rotates while in contact with the inclined surface 144 and moves toward the first member 100 (right side in Figures 12 and 13) while rotating. The second member 102 also moves toward the first member 100 together with the first roller 140. As a result, the second member 102 approaches the first member 100 and presses against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0071] Furthermore, in the jig 2 of the third embodiment, when the second member 102 moves toward the first member 100, the elastic member 160 of the restoring mechanism 106 applies a restoring force to the second member 102 to return it to its original position. In this state, when the vertical member 143 moves downward, the first roller 140 and the second member 102 move toward the opposite side of the first member 100 (the left side in Figures 12 and 13) due to the restoring force of the elastic member 160. As a result, the second member 102 separates from the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0072] The jig 2 of the third embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, in the third embodiment, the pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 of the jig 2 comprises a first member 100 that covers a part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20 and a second member 102 that covers another part of the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. The pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 presses the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20 by the second member 102 approaching the first member 100. With this configuration, multiple pins 10 of the pin bundle 20 can be restrained with a simple configuration.

[0073] The jig 2 includes a moving mechanism 104 for moving the second member 102 toward the first member 100. The moving mechanism 104 includes a first roller 140 that is rotatably attached to the second member 102. The moving mechanism 104 moves the second member 102 toward the first member 100 by rotating the first roller 140. With this configuration, the pressing force acting on the pin bundle 20 can be adjusted by using the first roller 140.

[0074] The moving mechanism 104 includes a vertical member 143 that moves vertically relative to the first roller 140. The vertical member 143 has an inclined surface 144 that is tilted with respect to the vertical direction, and the first roller 140 makes contact with this inclined surface 144. The moving mechanism 104 rotates the first roller 140 that is in contact with the inclined surface 144 by moving the vertical member 143 vertically. With this configuration, the first roller 140 can be rotated with a simple configuration.

[0075] The second member 102 of the pin bundle restraint mechanism 40 is equipped with a curved pressing surface 122 that presses against the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20. This configuration makes it easier to transmit the pressing force from the second member 102 to the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle 20.

[0076] Furthermore, the second member 102 is equipped with a protrusion 125 that reduces friction with the surrounding first guide member 130 during movement. This configuration allows the second member 102 to move smoothly and facilitates the transmission of the pressing force from the second member 102 to the pin bundle 20.

[0077] Furthermore, the jig 2 includes a restoring mechanism 106 that provides a restoring force to the second member 102 to return it to its original position. With this configuration, the pin bundle 20 can be released from its constrained state with a simple structure.

[0078] (modified version) In the jig 2 described above, if the pin support member 52 that supports the pin 10 is made of a spring, the spring constant of the pin support member 52 is not particularly limited. For example, the spring constants of some of the pin support members 52 among the plurality of pin support members 52 may be different from those of some of the pin support members 52. For example, the spring constant of the plurality of pin support members 52 in the part that holds the workpiece W may be greater than the spring constant of the plurality of pin support members 52 in the part that does not hold the workpiece W. For example, the spring constant of the plurality of pin support members 52 that support the plurality of pins 10 located in the radial center of the pin bundle 20 may be greater than the spring constant of the plurality of pin support members 52 that support the plurality of pins 10 located in the peripheral part of the pin bundle 20.

[0079] With this configuration, by holding the workpiece W in the portion of the pin support member 52 with a large spring constant, the workpiece W can be easily removed from the pin bundle 20 by utilizing the restoring force of the pin support member 52.

[0080] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, these are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technologies described in the claims include various modifications and changes to the specific examples illustrated above. The technical elements described in this specification or drawings exhibit technical usefulness individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. Furthermore, the technologies illustrated in this specification or drawings can achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving even one of these objectives itself constitutes technical usefulness. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 2: Jig, 10: Pin, 20: Pin bundle, 40: Pin bundle restraint mechanism, 42: Elastic member, 44: Compression member, 46: Actuator, 50: Holding mechanism, 52: Pin support member, 70: Suction port, 72: Suction passage, 80: Upper member, 82: Lower member, 90: Wedge, 92: Support member, 94: Insertion part, 96: Pressing member, 98: Actuator, 422: Hollow part, W: Workpiece 100: First member, 102: Second member, 104: Moving mechanism, 106: Restoration mechanism, 120: Main body, 121: Pressing part, 122: Pressing surface, 123: Recess, 124: Shaft, 125: Protrusion, 130: First guide member, 132: Second guide member, 140: First roller, 142: Second roller, 143: Vertical member, 144: Inclined surface, 146: Actuator, 148: Housing, 160: Elastic member

Claims

1. A bundle of pins comprising multiple rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The restraint mechanism comprises an elastic member arranged around the bundle of pins, The elastic member is compressed along the axial direction of the pin bundle, causing it to elastically deform toward the pin bundle and press against the outer surface of the pin bundle.

2. A pin bundle comprising a plurality of rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The restraint mechanism comprises an elastic member arranged around the bundle of pins, The elastic member is configured in a tubular shape and expands upon gas injection, causing it to elastically deform toward the pin bundle and press against the outer surface of the pin bundle.

3. A jig according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned pin is a jig in which a portion of its axial direction is configured as a hexagonal prism.

4. A jig according to claim 1 or 2, The tip of the aforementioned pin is configured to be able to hold a workpiece in place, and this is a jig.

5. A pin bundle comprising a plurality of rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism comprises a first member that covers a portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle and a second member that covers another portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle, wherein the second member presses against the outer surface of the pin bundle as it approaches the first member. The second member is a jig that has a curved pressing surface for pressing the outer circumferential surface of the pin bundle.

6. A pin bundle comprising a plurality of rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism comprises a first member that covers a portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle and a second member that covers another portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle, wherein the second member presses against the outer surface of the pin bundle as it approaches the first member. The second member is a jig that includes a friction-reducing part for reducing friction with surrounding members during movement.

7. A pin bundle comprising a plurality of rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism comprises a first member that covers a portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle and a second member that covers another portion of the outer surface of the pin bundle, wherein the second member presses against the outer surface of the pin bundle as it approaches the first member. A jig further comprising a restoring mechanism that provides a restoring force to the second member to return the second member to its original position.

8. A jig according to any one of claims 5 to 7, The device further includes a moving mechanism for moving the second member toward the first member, The moving mechanism is a jig comprising a roller rotatably attached to the second member, which moves the second member toward the first member by rotating the roller.

9. The jig according to claim 8, The moving mechanism includes a vertical member that moves in the vertical direction relative to the roller, The vertical member comprises an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the vertical direction, and the roller makes contact with the inclined surface. The aforementioned moving mechanism is a jig that rotates the roller that is in contact with the inclined surface by moving the vertical member in the vertical direction.

10. A pin bundle comprising a plurality of rod-shaped pins, The system includes a restraining mechanism for restraining the aforementioned bundle of pins, A jig for holding a workpiece by a plurality of pins that constitute the aforementioned pin bundle, The multiple pins are arranged in a bundle with their axial directions parallel, and are arranged so that adjacent pins can come into contact with each other. The restraining mechanism restrains a plurality of pins by pressing the outer surface of the pin bundle from around the pin bundle, thereby bringing adjacent pins of the pin bundle into contact with each other. The system further comprises multiple pin support members that support multiple of the aforementioned pins, Each of the aforementioned pin support members is composed of a spring that expands and contracts in the axial direction of each of the aforementioned pins. A jig in which the spring constants of the multiple pin support members that support the multiple pins located in the radial center of the pin bundle are greater than the spring constants of the multiple pin support members that support the multiple pins located in the peripheral edge of the pin bundle.

Images