feeder

Abstract

A feeder that transports carrier tapes for accommodating articles, the feeder comprising a splicing device that connects a rear end portion of a carrier tape being transported and a front end portion of a carrier tape for resupply, in order to ensure the connection of the carrier tape being transported and the carrier tape for resupply.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a feeder.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a feeder for connecting a supply carrier tape to a carrier tape being conveyed has been known (for example, see Patent Document 1). The carrier tape is composed of a base tape and a cover tape attached to the base tape to close the opening of the cavity. The carrier tape being conveyed and the supply carrier tape are each wound around a reel. Each reel is rotatably attached to a reel shaft provided on the feeder, and the tape is fed out by the rotation of the corresponding sprocket. [[ID= / / ]]< / / / >

[0003] The above-described feeder includes tape connection means for connecting the carrier tape being conveyed and the supply carrier tape. This tape connection means has a heat-sealing plate and a heat-sealing support plate for integrating the carrier tape being conveyed and the supply carrier tape by heat-sealing.

[0004] In the above-described feeder, when a part shortage of the carrier tape being conveyed is detected, the supply carrier tape advances by the rotation of the sprocket, and when the front end portion of the supply carrier tape overlaps the rear end portion of the carrier tape being conveyed, the heat-sealing plate of the tape connection means is lowered. According to such a process, the rear end portion of the carrier tape being conveyed and the front end portion of the supply carrier tape are sandwiched between the heat-sealing plate and the heat-sealing support plate and heat-sealed, so that the carrier tape being conveyed and the supply carrier tape are connected.

[0005] Therefore, according to the above-described feeder, when there is a part shortage of the carrier tape being conveyed, the supply carrier tape can be automatically spliced to the carrier tape being conveyed without the work of an operator, and the conveyance of the carrier tape in which parts are accommodated in the cavity can be continued.

Prior Art Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3-75600 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] In the feeder described in Patent Document 1 above, the carrier tape being transported and the replenishment carrier tape are connected by heat-sealing them by overlapping them in the tape thickness direction. However, with this structure, the pitch of the feed holes before and after the joint between the transported carrier tape and the replenishment carrier tape may deviate from a predetermined pitch, or the strength of the carrier tape during transport may not be ensured.

[0008] This specification aims to provide a feeder capable of connecting a carrier tape being transported with a replenishment carrier tape, using a configuration different from that described in Patent Document 1. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This specification discloses a feeder for transporting a carrier tape containing components, comprising a splicing device that connects the rear end of the transported carrier tape with the front end of a replenishment carrier tape using a connecting member.

[0010] According to this disclosure, a connecting member is used to connect the carrier tape being transported with the replacement carrier tape, thereby ensuring that the connection is maintained. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the feeder according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of a carrier tape with connecting components. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the front of the feeder. [Figure 4] This is a rear perspective view of the feeder. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the component detection sensor, cutting device, and moving mechanism of the splicing device equipped in the feeder. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing the cutting device in operation and in the completed operation state. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the tape holder and splicing device included in the feeder. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing the tape holder in a released state. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the structure of the positioning part of the tape holder. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the structure for detecting the components of the carrier tape used for replenishment in the tape holder. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the state in which a carrier tape being transported and a replenishment carrier tape are connected by a connecting member using a splicing device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the feeder according to this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1-11.

[0013] 1. Overview Feeder 1 is a tape feeder that transports a carrier tape 2 containing components. Feeder 1 is detachably mounted in a slot on a component mounting machine located on a circuit board production line for producing electronic circuit boards. This component mounting machine has multiple slots and can accommodate multiple feeders 1. Each feeder 1 supplies components to a component removal position by transporting the carrier tape 2, and then holds the components in a suction nozzle or gripping chuck attached to the mounting head of the component mounting machine. After being supplied to the component removal position and held in the suction nozzle or the like, the components are mounted on the electronic circuit board.

[0014] 2. Carrier Tape Configuration The carrier tape 2 is a longitudinally extending tape that houses a plurality of components. The components are electronic components to be mounted on an electronic substrate, and include micro-components such as 0201 size (0.2 mm × 0.1 mm) to large components. The carrier tape 2 is wound around a disc-shaped reel 3. Also, the carrier tape 2 may be formed wide, for example, 12 mm.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the carrier tape 2 has cavities 2a. The cavities 2a are accommodation spaces for housing components, and are provided side by side at a predetermined interval (for example, 4 mm, 8 mm, etc.) in the tape longitudinal direction. The carrier tape 2 is a tape in which a base tape 2c provided with the cavities 2a and a cover tape 2d covering the openings of the cavities 2a are joined (see FIG. 3). The carrier tape 2 is composed of a flexible material such as resin, plastic, or paper.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2 has feed holes 2b. The feed holes 2b are substantially circular or elliptical through-holes with which the engaging protrusions of the sprocket of the feeder 1 engage. The feed holes 2b penetrate in the tape thickness direction. The feed holes 2b are provided at both ends in the tape width direction, respectively. The feed holes 2b are provided side by side at a predetermined pitch (for example, 4 mm, 8 mm, etc.) in the tape longitudinal direction. The feed holes 2b are arranged in a row in the tape longitudinal direction in the base tape 2c and are arranged in parallel with the above-mentioned cavities 2a.

[0017] Incidentally, the carrier tape 2 may be an embossed tape in which the base tape 2c is provided with protrusions protruding downward from the flat surface for each cavity 2a, or a paper tape in which the openings of through-holes provided as cavities 2a in the base tape 2c are covered with the cover tape 2d from both sides in the tape thickness direction or the openings of the cavities 2a provided recessedly in the flat surface of the base tape 2c are covered with the cover tape 2d from one side in the tape thickness direction. An embossed carrier tape 2 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, etc.

[0018] 3. Configuration of Feeder Feeder 1 is an auto-splicing feeder that has the function of transporting the carrier tape 2 and exposing the components so that they can be taken out at the component extraction position, and also has the function of connecting two carrier tapes 2 to each other. As shown in FIG. 1, Feeder 1 includes a feeder body 10, a tape guide 20, a tape transport mechanism 30, a cover tape discharge mechanism 35, a splicing device 40, and a control device 90.

[0019] The feeder body 10 is a body member that includes a skeleton part for mounting the tape guide 20, the tape transport mechanism 30, the cover tape discharge mechanism 35, and the splicing device 40, and a mounting part for mounting to the slot of the component mounter. Incidentally, the feeder body 10 may include a reel holding part that rotatably holds the reel 3 around which the carrier tape 2 is wound. The feeder body 10 is formed in a flat shape that can be attached to and detached from the slot of the component mounter.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the feeder body 10 has a transport path 11 for transporting and supporting the carrier tape 2. The transport path 11 supports the carrier tape 2 from below. For example, the transport path 11 supports the carrier tape 2 by contacting the lower surfaces of the flange parts at both ends in the tape width direction Y of the carrier tape 2. The transport path 11 extends along the tape transport direction X and is formed, for example, in a U-shaped cross-section. The transport path 11 supports the carrier tape 2 at the upper ends of the vertical walls in the tape width direction Y that form a U-shaped cross-section.

[0021] The tape guide 20 is a guide member that guides the carrier tape 2 being transported. The tape guide 20 is positioned above the transport path 11. The tape guide 20 is detachably attached to the front and upper side of the feeder body 10 in the tape transport direction X. The tape guide 20 is formed in a U-shape in cross-section so as to be able to contact the upper surface and side surface of the carrier tape 2. When the carrier tape 2 is transported in the tape transport direction X, it is guided in contact with the upper and side walls of the tape guide 20. The tape guide 20 has a window portion 21 that opens in the upper wall, and a folded portion 22 that folds back the cover tape 2d that has been peeled off from the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2 to the opposite side from the base tape 2c. The part removal position is located at the window portion 21.

[0022] The carrier tape 2 is inserted into the tape inlet of the feeder body 10 and enters the tape guide 20 while being supported by the transport path 11. When the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 engages with the sprocket on the tape exit side (described later) and the sprocket rotates, the carrier tape 2 is transported in the tape transport direction X. In sync with the transport of the carrier tape 2, the cover tape 2d of the carrier tape 2 is peeled away from the base tape 2c and folded back at the folded portion 22. This exposes the components inside the cavity 2a so that they can be removed. After exposure, when the components reach the component removal position, they are held by a suction nozzle or the like of a component mounting machine and transferred to an electronic circuit board.

[0023] The tape transport mechanism 30 is responsible for transporting the carrier tape 2. The tape transport mechanism 30 includes a sprocket that transports the carrier tape 2 by rotation, and a drive motor, such as an electric motor, that generates power to rotate the sprocket. The sprocket is a rotatable disc and has an engaging projection that is inserted into the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 being transported. The sprocket and the drive motor are located below the transport path 11. When the drive motor is driven with the engaging projection of the sprocket inserted into the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2, the carrier tape 2 is transported in accordance with the drive of the drive motor.

[0024] Furthermore, it is preferable that the sprocket of the tape transport mechanism 30 be positioned close to the peeling position of the cover tape 2d and the component removal position in the feeder 1 in order to prevent misalignment of the carrier tape 2 in the tape width direction Y. Also, the sprocket and the drive motor may be directly connected, or they may be indirectly connected via a reduction gear. In addition, it is preferable that the drive motor rotates the sprocket not only in the direction that advances the carrier tape 2 in the tape transport direction X, but also in the opposite direction to that advance direction, for example, in order to adjust the position of the carrier tape 2 in the tape transport direction X or to improve the positioning accuracy.

[0025] The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 is a mechanism that discharges the cover tape 2d, which has been peeled off from the base tape 2c of the carrier tape 2, to the outside of the feeder body 10. The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 discharges the cover tape 2d, which has been peeled off from the base tape 2c upstream of the parts removal position of the feeder 1 in the tape transport direction X and folded back so as to pass over the transport path 11, by lowering it along the side of the feeder body 10.

[0026] The cover tape discharge mechanism 35 includes a winding gear 36, a winding roller 37, and a winding lever 38. The winding gear 36 rotates in a direction that discharges the cover tape 2d in synchronization with the transport of the carrier tape 2 in the tape transport direction X described above. The winding roller 37 rotates to assist in the discharge transport of the cover tape 2d. The winding lever 38 is an operating part for rotating the winding gear 36. The winding roller 37 may be provided at multiple locations so that the cover tape 2d is discharged and transported along a predetermined path from the folded portion 22 until it reaches the winding gear 36.

[0027] The carrier tape 2 is inserted into the tape inlet of the feeder body 10 and supported by the transport path 11, and is set so that the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 engages with the sprocket of the tape transport mechanism 30 on the tape outlet side. The cover tape 2d of the carrier tape 2 is completely peeled off from the base tape 2c starting from the folded portion 22 upstream of the tape transport direction X from the parts removal position, and is set so that it engages with the winding gear 36 after following a predetermined path.

[0028] As the sprocket rotates, the carrier tape 2 is moved in the tape transport direction X, and simultaneously, the cover tape 2d is peeled away from the base tape 2c and discharged outwards from the feeder 1 in conjunction with the transport of the carrier tape 2. In this case, the components in the cavity 2a of the base tape 2c are exposed and made removable. After being exposed, the components are held by a suction nozzle or the like of a component mounting machine when they reach the component removal position and transferred to the electronic circuit board.

[0029] The splicing device 40 is a device that connects two carrier tapes 2 (specifically, their cover tapes 2d) without requiring any work by an operator. Splicing is performed, for example, to switch from a carrier tape 2 being transported with a small number of remaining parts to a replenishment carrier tape 2 with a large number of parts, or to switch between different types of carrier tapes 2. The splicing device 40 connects the subsequent carrier tape 2 to the carrier tape 2 being transported by the feeder 1 using a splicing tape 5, which is a connecting member.

[0030] Hereinafter, the carrier tape 2 being transported ahead of the feeder 1 will be referred to as the leading tape 2F, and the replenishment carrier tape 2 that follows the leading tape 2F will be referred to as the following tape 2S. The reel 3 on which the leading tape 2F is wound will be referred to as the leading reel 3F, and the reel 3 on which the following tape 2S is wound will be referred to as the following reel 3S.

[0031] Furthermore, the splicing device 40 may be a unit integrated with the feeder 1, or it may be a unit that is detachably attached to the feeder 1. In this embodiment, the splicing device 40 is assumed to be a unit integrated with the feeder 1.

[0032] The splicing device 40 is integrated and incorporated into the feeder 1. As shown in Figure 4, the splicing device 40 comprises a unit body 41, a component detection sensor 42, a cutting device 50, a tape holder 60, a splicing crimping section 70, and a moving mechanism 80.

[0033] The unit body 41 is a main body component that includes a skeletal portion to which other components of the splicing device 40 are attached. The unit body 41 is integrated with the feeder body 10 of the feeder 1. In a structure in which the splicing device 40 is detachably attached to the feeder 1, the unit body 41 may include a mounting portion that is attached to the feeder body 10.

[0034] At least a portion of the transport path 11 described above is provided on the unit body 41. The leading tape 2F, pulled out from the leading reel 3F, is held in a transportable manner on the transport path 11. The transport path 11 provided on the unit body 41 can be slid vertically in the Z direction relative to the unit body 41 and, consequently, the feeder body 10, by means of the moving mechanism 80.

[0035] The component detection sensor 42 is a sensor that detects components housed in the cavity 2a of the preceding tape 2F. The component detection sensor 42 is a non-contact or optical sensor, such as a camera, and outputs a signal according to the presence or absence of components in the cavity 2a. The output signal of the component detection sensor 42 is supplied to the control device 90. The control device 90 detects the presence or absence of components in the preceding tape 2F based on the output signal of the component detection sensor 42. When it detects a change from a state where a component is present in a cavity 2a to a state where there is no component in the cavity 2a immediately following that cavity 2a, it detects the final component in the preceding tape 2F (hereinafter referred to as the final component) and identifies its position.

[0036] The cutting device 50 is a device for cutting the lead tape 2F. The cutting device 50 cuts the longitudinal center of the lead tape 2F between the cavities 2a. The cutting device 50 is integrally attached to the transport path 11 of the feeder body 10. Alternatively, the cutting device 50 may be attached to the unit body 41. As shown in Figures 4, 5, 6(A), and 6(B), the cutting device 50 has a cutter 51, a moving guide part 52, a cutter drive part 53, and a pressing part 54.

[0037] The cutter 51 is a blade that cuts the lead tape 2F. The cutter 51 is movable in the vertical direction Z relative to the transport path 11. The transport path 11 has a section that is divided into front and rear with a gap K in the center of the tape transport direction X. The cutter 51 can rise through the gap K to a position above the upper surface of the lead tape 2F on the transport path 11. The cutter 51 is movable between a lower end position where it does not cut the lead tape 2F and an upper end position where it does cut the lead tape 2F.

[0038] The cutter 51 is held in a plate-shaped cutter holder 55 and is attached to the upper end of the cutter holder 55. The cutter 51 may be detachable from the cutter holder 55. The cutter 51 moves together with the cutter holder 55 as it moves in the vertical direction Z. The cutter 51 cuts the tape 2F at a predetermined location behind the final component in the tape transport direction X, which is designated as the splicing location. Specifically, this predetermined location is, for example, the center in the tape transport direction X between the cavity 2a that houses the final component and the empty cavity 2a immediately behind it (shown as empty cavity 2e in Figure 4).

[0039] The moving guide section 52 is a part that supports and guides the cutter holding section 55 and, consequently, the cutter 51 so that it can move vertically in the Z direction relative to the transport path 11. The moving guide section 52 has a main body side member 52a attached to the unit body 41 and a cutter side member 52b attached to the cutter holding section 55. The main body side member 52a extends in a rod shape vertically in the Z direction. The cutter side member 52b includes a groove or hole into which the main body side member 52a fits, corresponding to the main body side member 52a. The cutter side member 52b moves vertically together with the cutter holding section 55.

[0040] The cutter drive unit 53 is the part that generates the driving force to move the cutter holder 55 and, consequently, the cutter 51 in the vertical Z direction. The cutter drive unit 53 is, for example, an electric motor. The cutter drive unit 53 is attached to the unit body 41. When a command to cut the preceding tape 2F is issued, the cutter drive unit 53 generates the driving force to move the cutter 51 from the lower end position to the upper end position.

[0041] The pressing portion 54 is the part that holds the preceding tape 2F immobile when the cutter 51 cuts the preceding tape 2F. The pressing portion 54 is formed to contact the upper surface of the preceding tape 2F while surrounding the cutter 51 at its upper end position without interfering with the cutter 51. In other words, the pressing portion 54 is formed, for example, in the shape of a frame or a block with a cutout in the center in the tape transport direction X, so as not to interfere with the cutter 51 at its upper end position.

[0042] The pressing section 54 is positioned above the transport path 11. The pressing section 54 is supported by the unit body 41 so as to be movable in the tape transport direction X. The pressing section 54 moves in the tape transport direction X in synchronization with the vertical movement Z of the cutter holding section 55 and the cutter 51. The pressing section 54 may move in conjunction with the movement of the cutter holding section 55 by applying the driving force of the cutter drive section 53 via a link mechanism, or it may move by driving force from a drive section provided separately from the cutter drive section 53.

[0043] The tape holder 60 is a holding part that holds the subsequent tape 2S that has been pulled out from the subsequent reel 3S. The subsequent tape 2S is held in a position within the tape holder 60. While the subsequent tape 2S is positioned within the tape holder 60, it is not transported in the tape transport direction X. However, after being connected to the preceding tape 2F, it becomes possible for the tape transport mechanism 30 to transport it together with the preceding tape 2F in the tape transport direction X.

[0044] The tape holder 60 is positioned above the transport path 11. The tape holder 60 is capable of positioning the subsequent tape 2S and can switch between holding and releasing the subsequent tape 2S. The tape holder 60 is provided on the unit body 41. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the tape holder 60 includes a holder base 61, a holding rail 62, a rail holding part 63, an opening / closing mechanism part 64, a positioning part 65, and a tape detection sensor 66.

[0045] The holder base 61 is the main body of the tape holder 60. The holder base 61 is fixed to the unit body 41. The holder base 61 is kept in a substantially horizontal position and is formed in a plate shape.

[0046] The holding rail 62 is a rail that contacts the lower surface of the subsequent tape 2S and holds the subsequent tape 2S. The holding rail 62 extends parallel to the tape transport direction X in the feeder 1. Preferably, the upper surface of the holding rail 62 is in a substantially horizontal state, but the rear end side (front side) of the holding rail 62 in the tape transport direction X may be curved upward from the rear to the front side in the tape transport direction X so that the subsequent tape 2S is stretched from the subsequent reel 3S and held by the holding rail 62 in a smoothly curved state. A pair of holding rails 62 are provided separated in the tape width direction Y. The pair of holding rails 62 are separated by a distance that allows for the holding of the subsequent tape 2S.

[0047] The rail holding portion 63 is a member that holds the holding rail 62. A pair of rail holding portions 63 are provided corresponding to the holding rail 62. Each rail holding portion 63 is erected in a plate shape. The holding rail 62 is located at the lower inner side of the rail holding portion 63. Each rail holding portion 63 is pivotably supported by the holder base 61. The rail holding portion 63 can pivot about an axis extending in the tape transport direction X. The rail holding portion 63 pivots between a holding position in which it can hold the subsequent tape 2S on the holding rail 62 and a release position in which it can release the holding.

[0048] The opening / closing mechanism 64 is a mechanism in the tape holder 60 that swings the rail holding part 63 between a holding position and a release position. The opening / closing mechanism 64 can switch between a state in which the subsequent tape 2S is held and a state in which it is released by swinging the rail holding part 63. The opening / closing mechanism 64 positions the rail holding part 63 in the holding position when it is time to hold the subsequent tape 2S, and in the release position when it is time to release the subsequent tape 2S. The distance between the pair of holding rails 62 is such that the subsequent tape 2S can be held when the rail holding part 63 is in the holding position, while the distance between the rail holding part 63 and the rail holding part 63 is greater than the distance in the holding position when it is in the release position.

[0049] Furthermore, the opening / closing mechanism 64 may operate in conjunction with the operation of the moving mechanism 80, which will be described in detail later. Also, the operation of the opening / closing mechanism 64 may be achieved using a cam mechanism mechanically connected to the moving mechanism 80, or it may be achieved using power generated by an independent electric motor separate from the moving mechanism 80.

[0050] The opening / closing mechanism 64 has a spring portion 64a. The spring portion 64a is, for example, a compression spring that generates a biasing force that biases the rail holding portion 63, including the holding rail 62, toward the holding position. The opening / closing mechanism 64 holds the rail holding portion 63 in the holding position by the biasing force of the spring portion 64a, and moves the rail holding portion 63 to the release position against the biasing force of the spring portion 64a by the external force of the cam mechanism or drive motor.

[0051] The subsequent tape 2S is inserted from the rear side of the tape holder 60 in the tape transport direction X into the space above the pair of holding rails 62 in the tape transport direction X. Then, with the rail holding portion 63 in the holding position, both ends of the subsequent tape 2S in the tape width direction Y are placed on the upper surface of the pair of holding rails 62, thereby holding it in place on the holding rails 62.

[0052] The positioning section 65 is the part that positions the subsequent tape 2S so that it can be connected to the preceding tape 2F. As shown in Figure 9, the positioning section 65 has a first stopper 65a and a second stopper 65b.

[0053] The first stopper 65a is a forward end stopper that positions the forward end of the subsequent tape 2S inserted into the tape holder 60 in the tape transport direction X. The first stopper 65a abuts against the front end of the subsequent tape 2S to prevent it from being inserted any further forward. Preferably, the first stopper 65a is configured to abut against the front end of the subsequent tape 2S itself, avoiding the splicing tape 5 attached to the front end of the subsequent tape 2S.

[0054] The second stopper 65b is a fall prevention stopper that prevents the subsequent tape 2S from falling out of the tape holder 60 when it is held in the tape holder 60. The second stopper 65b is an upwardly projecting projection formed on the upper surface of the holding rail 62. The second stopper 65b prevents the subsequent tape 2S from falling out of the tape holder 60 by fitting into the feed hole 2b of the subsequent tape 2S.

[0055] Furthermore, multiple second stoppers 65b may be provided on the holding rail 62 in accordance with the pitch of the feed holes 2b. Alternatively, a second stopper 65b may be provided on each of the pair of holding rails 62. The second stopper 65b is configured such that when the rail holding portion 63 changes from the holding position to the release position, the engagement of the subsequent tape 2S with the feed hole 2b is released.

[0056] The tape detection sensor 66 is a sensor that detects whether or not the subsequent tape 2S is positioned in the tape holder 60 in a desired state. The holder base 61 is provided with a jig 67 (see Figure 10) whose position changes depending on whether or not the subsequent tape 2S is present in the tape holder 60. The jig 67 is rotatably supported on the holder base 61. The jig 67 is biased backward in the tape transport direction X by its own weight or the biasing force of a biasing member, and when it comes into contact with the front end of the subsequent tape 2S and is pushed by the subsequent tape 2S, it moves forward in the tape transport direction X against that biasing force. The tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the jig 67.

[0057] When the front end of the following tape 2S is not in contact with the first stopper 65a, the jig 67 is not pushed forward in the tape transport direction X. In this case, the tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal indicating that the following tape 2S is not positioned in the tape holder 60. On the other hand, when the front end of the following tape 2S is in contact with the first stopper 65a, the jig 67 is pushed forward in the tape transport direction X and rotates relative to the holder base 61. In this case, the tape detection sensor 66 outputs a signal indicating that the following tape 2S is positioned in the tape holder 60.

[0058] The output signal from the tape detection sensor 66 is supplied to the control device 90. Based on the output signal from the tape detection sensor 66, the control device 90 detects the presence or absence of a subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60.

[0059] The splicing crimping section 70 is the part that crimps the splicing tape 5 to the rear end of the preceding tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S. The splicing crimping section 70 is provided on the tape holder 60. The splicing crimping section 70 is formed in a block shape or a plate shape. Preferably, the splicing crimping section 70 is made of a material such as rubber sponge so that it can flexibly adapt to the condition of the upper surface of the carrier tape 2.

[0060] The splicing tape 5 is bonded by adhesive to the upper surface of the rear end of the preceding tape 2F (specifically, its cover tape 2d) and the upper surface of the front end of the succeeding tape 2S (specifically, its cover tape 2d). The splicing tape 5 may be provided as a single sheet between the preceding tape 2F and the succeeding tape 2S, as shown in Figure 2, or two or more sheets may be provided in parallel.

[0061] When the transport path 11 rises due to the moving mechanism 80 and reaches the splicing-possible position described later, the splicing crimping section 70 crimps the front half of the splicing tape 5 to the rear end of the preceding tape 2F in the vertical Z direction, and also crimps the rear half of the splicing tape 5 to the front end of the following tape 2S in the vertical Z direction.

[0062] In this embodiment, the splicing tape 5 is held in the tape holder 60 together with the successor tape 2S after its rear half is attached to the front end of the successor tape 2S. Therefore, the splicing crimping portion 70 only needs to be able to crimp at least the front half of the splicing tape 5 to the rear end of the preceding tape 2F in the vertical direction Z. However, in order to ensure adhesion between the splicing tape 5 and the successor tape 2S, it is preferable that the splicing crimping portion 70 can crimp the rear portion of the splicing tape 5 and the successor tape 2S in the vertical direction Z.

[0063] Furthermore, the splicing crimping portion 70 is not only provided on the tape holder 60, but may also be provided on the transport path 11 side in conjunction with the tape holder 60 side, so as to be able to clamp the front portion of the splicing tape 5 and the rear end of the preceding tape 2F in the vertical direction Z, and also clamp the rear portion of the splicing tape 5 and the front end of the following tape 2S in the vertical direction Z. The splicing crimping portion 70 on the transport path 11 side may be, for example, a bottom wall that can abut the lower surface of the preceding tape 2F in the transport path 11.

[0064] The moving mechanism 80 is a mechanism that moves the transport path 11 and the tape holder 60 relative to each other. Specifically, with the tape holder 60 fixed to the unit body 41, the moving mechanism 80 moves the transport path 11 in the vertical direction Z relative to the tape holder 60. As shown in Figure 5, the moving mechanism 80 has a moving guide section 81 and a moving drive section 82.

[0065] The lower position where the transport path 11 is moved by the moving mechanism 80 is a transportable position in which the transport of the leading tape 2F in the tape transport direction X is possible while restricting the connection between the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S. The upper position where the transport path 11 is moved is a splicing-possible position in which the above connection can be performed while restricting the transport of the leading tape 2F.

[0066] The movable guide section 81 is a part that supports and guides the transport path 11 so that it can move vertically in the Z direction relative to the unit body 41. The movable guide section 81 has a body-side member 81a that is attached to the unit body 41 and a holder-side member 81b that is attached to the transport path 11. The body-side member 81a extends in a rod shape vertically in the Z direction. The holder-side member 81b has a groove or hole that corresponds to the body-side member 81a and into which the body-side member 81a fits. The holder-side member 81b moves vertically together with the transport path 11.

[0067] The mobile drive unit 82 is the part that generates the driving force to move the transport path 11 in the vertical direction Z. The mobile drive unit 82 is, for example, an electric motor. The mobile drive unit 82 is attached to the unit body 41. When the mobile drive unit 82 is commanded to raise the transport path 11 by a splicing command between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S, it moves the transport path 11 upward from the transportable position to the splicingable position. Also, when the above connection is completed or a command to release the splicing is issued, the mobile drive unit 82 moves the transport path 11 downward from the splicingable position to the transportable position.

[0068] The control device 90 is a device that controls the operation of the feeder 1 (including the operation of the splicing device 40 and the moving mechanism 80). The control device 90 is mainly composed of a microcomputer. The control device 90 controls the operation of each drive unit in the feeder 1 based on various signals such as the tape detection sensor 66 and the component detection sensor 42. The control device 90 is connected to the control device 91 of the component mounting machine and can transmit information such as the operation status, including the connection results of the splicing device 40 in the feeder 1, to the control device 91.

[0069] Furthermore, the connection result may include the positional relationship between the component removal position of the feeder 1 and the trailing end of the preceding tape 2F when the preceding tape 2F is cut, and the position of the spliced ​​portion of the carrier tape 2, which is formed by integrating the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S after splicing is completed.

[0070] 4. Feeder operation With the feeder 1 mounted in the slot of the component mounting machine, the operator pulls out the lead tape 2F, which is the carrier tape 2 wound on the lead reel 3F, from the lead reel 3F and inserts it into the tape inlet of the transport path 11, which is in a transportable position, and sets it in the feeder 1. This setting of the lead tape 2F is done so that the feed hole 2b of the carrier tape 2 engages with the sprocket on the tape exit side and the cover tape 2d is completely peeled off from the base tape 2c and engages with the winding gear 36.

[0071] When the feeder 1 is started after the above setup, it repeatedly supplies components in the cavity 2a to the component removal position and exposes them by transporting the preceding tape 2F with the tape transport mechanism 30. The components supplied to the component removal position are removed from the cavity 2a by the operation of the component mounting machine and mounted on the electronic circuit board.

[0072] Furthermore, the subsequent tape 2S, which is the carrier tape 2 wound on the subsequent reel 3S, can be set on the same feeder 1 at any time during or before the production of the circuit board, when the components on the preceding tape 2F, which is set on the feeder 1 as described above, are being mounted by a component mounting machine.

[0073] Specifically, first, the worker extends the subsequent tape 2S from the subsequent reel 3S at any time during or before the production of the circuit board, cuts it in front of the component that will be the leading component for tape transport among the components housed in the cavity 2a (hereinafter referred to as the leading component), and then adheres the rear half of the splicing tape 5 to the upper surface of the front end of the cut subsequent tape 2S. Then, the worker inserts the subsequent tape 2S into the tape inlet of the tape holder 60, brings its front end into contact with the first stopper 65a of the positioning unit 65, and hooks the feed hole 2b onto the second stopper 65b, thereby holding the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60.

[0074] Furthermore, the rail holding portion 63 of the tape holder 60 only needs to be in the holding position by the opening / closing mechanism 64 at the time the holding rail 62 holds the subsequent tape 2S. For example, the rail holding portion 63 may be in the released position when the operator inserts the subsequent tape 2S into the tape entrance of the tape holder 60, and then change to the holding position when the jig 67 contacts and pushes the front end of the subsequent tape 2S and the tape detection sensor 66 detects the presence of the subsequent tape 2S.

[0075] As described above, when the subsequent tape 2S is held in the tape holder 60, the tape detection sensor 66 detects that the subsequent tape 2S is positioned in the tape holder 60 and outputs a signal indicating this status to the control device 90 of the feeder 1. As a result, the control device 90 of the feeder 1 recognizes that the subsequent tape 2S has been set in the tape holder 60 and that the connection between the subsequent tape 2S and the preceding tape 2F is ready.

[0076] As the number of components remaining on the lead tape 2F decreases due to the above-mentioned substrate production, the control device 90 detects the final component on the lead tape 2F based on the output signal of the component detection sensor 42 and identifies its position. Upon detecting the final component, the control device 90 first drives the drive motor of the tape transport mechanism 30 to adjust the transport position of the lead tape 2F so that the splicing point is located at the center of the tape transport direction X between the cavity 2a containing the final component on the lead tape 2F and the empty cavity 2e. The transport direction and transport distance of the lead tape 2F are determined according to the placement of the component detection sensor 42 and the placement of the cutter 51 of the cutting device 50.

[0077] Once the control device 90 has finished transporting the lead tape 2F for positioning the splicing location described above, it then drives the cutter drive unit 53 of the cutting device 50 to raise the cutter holding unit 55 and, consequently, the cutter 51 from its lower end position (as shown in Figure 5), and moves the pressing unit 54 upwards toward the cutter 51 (see Figure 6(A)). When this process is performed, the lead tape 2F is held immobilely by the pressing unit 54 and cut at the splicing location before the cutter 51 reaches its upper end position.

[0078] When the lead tape 2F is cut, the portion of the lead tape 2F in front of the splicing point (specifically, the side where the cavity 2a containing components is still located) is held down by the retaining part 54, while the portion of the lead tape 2F in rear of the splicing point (specifically, the side where the empty cavity 2e is located) is discharged outside the feeder 1 as waste tape 2Z (see Figure 4).

[0079] Furthermore, when the cutter 51 reaches the upper end position (see Figure 6(B)), the cutter holding part 55 and thus the cutter 51 are then lowered from the upper end position back to the lower end position, and the pressing part 54 is returned from its position above the cutter 51 to its original position (see Figure 5). At this time, the control device 90 stores the positional relationship between the part extraction position of the feeder 1 and the rear end of the preceding tape 2F.

[0080] When the cutting of the leading tape 2F is complete, the control device 90 drives the drive motor of the tape transport mechanism 30 to adjust the transport position of the leading tape 2F so that the tape transport direction X position of the trailing end of the leading tape 2F, which contains the final component, matches the tape transport direction X position of the trailing end of the following tape 2S held in the tape holder 60. After this transport process is performed, the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S are separated in the vertical direction Z, and the tape transport direction X position of the trailing end of the leading tape 2F matches the tape transport direction X position of the trailing end of the following tape 2S.

[0081] Furthermore, the transport direction and transport distance of the preceding tape 2F may be determined according to the change in the position of the rear end of the preceding tape 2F due to the upward movement of the transport path 11. Also, the rear end of the preceding tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S should be positioned such that the pitch between the feed holes 2b before and after the splicing portion of the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S is a multiple of "4 mm". In addition, the rear end of the preceding tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S may be in contact with each other when connected, but a gap L may be left between them. This gap L is set to a range of, for example, 8 mm or less, corresponding to the pitch of the feed holes 2b, and specifically, it is set so that the pitch between the feed holes 2b before and after the splicing portion is a multiple of "4 mm".

[0082] Furthermore, if there is a gap L between the rear end of the leading tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S as described above, after the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S are connected, when the cavities 2a before and after the splicing portion of the carrier tape 2 reach the component removal position of the feeder 1, the transport control by the feeder 1, i.e., the drive motor control of the tape transport mechanism 30, may be corrected according to the pitch between the feed holes 2b before and after the splicing portion.

[0083] Next, the control device 90 drives the moving drive unit 82 of the moving mechanism 80 to raise the transport path 11 to a splicing-ready position so that the leading tape 2F on the transport path 11 and the trailing tape 2S on the tape holder 60 are connected. Once this process is performed, the transport path 11 slides upward toward the tape holder 60. When the transport path 11 reaches the splicing-ready position, the splicing crimping unit 70 of the splicing device 40 crimps the splicing tape 5 onto the leading tape 2F and the trailing tape 2S, connecting them.

[0084] Once the connection between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S is complete, the control device 90 then drives the movement drive unit 82 of the movement mechanism 80 to lower the transport path 11 to a transportable position, and operates the opening / closing mechanism 64 of the tape holder 60 to change the position of the rail holding unit 63 from the holding position to the release position. When this process is performed, the transport path 11 slides downward in the direction away from the tape holder 60, and the rail holding unit 63 is opened toward the release position.

[0085] Furthermore, the descent of the transport path 11 by the moving mechanism 80 and the position change of the rail holding portion 63 to the release position by the opening / closing mechanism 64 of the tape holder 60 may be performed in conjunction with each other, or they may be performed with a time difference. In addition, the descent of the transport path 11 by the moving mechanism 80 may be stopped at an intermediate position before the transport path 11 reaches the lowest end position of the transportable position. This descent stop is performed, for example, to reduce the stress applied to the splicing portion after the connection of the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S in the carrier tape 2, and may continue until the splicing portion moves towards the feeder body 10.

[0086] When the rail holding section 63 reaches the release position, the subsequent tape 2S is released from being held by the holding rail 62. When the transport path 11 descends to the transportable position, the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S connected to it are set together as one unit in the feeder 1 and can be transported in the tape transport direction X by the operation of the tape transport mechanism 30. Furthermore, when the subsequent tape 2S is integrated with the preceding tape 2F by splicing and released from being held by the tape holder 60, the next subsequent tape 2S can be inserted into the tape holder 60.

[0087] After the connection between the preceding tape 2F and the succeeding tape 2S is completed, the control device 90 stores the position of the splicing portion of the carrier tape 2 into which the preceding tape 2F and the succeeding tape 2S are integrated, and notifies the control device 91 of the higher-level component mounting machine that the carrier tape 2 from which components are extracted will switch from the preceding tape 2F to the succeeding tape 2S before and after the position of that splicing portion.

[0088] Thus, the feeder 1 is equipped with a splicing device 40 that connects a leading tape 2F being transported and supported on the transport path 11 with a replenishment trailing tape 2S held in the tape holder 60 using a splicing tape 5. This ensures a connection between the leading tape 2F being transported and supported on the transport path 11 and the replenishment trailing tape 2S held in the tape holder 60. Furthermore, with this configuration, splicing is performed with the trailing end of the leading tape 2F and the trailing end of the trailing tape 2S butted together, thus ensuring the superiority of the connection using the splicing tape 5.

[0089] Specifically, since the cover tape 2d of the preceding tape 2F and the cover tape 2d of the following tape 2S are connected via the splicing tape 5, after connection by the splicing tape 5, the base tape 2c and cover tape 2d of the preceding tape 2F and the base tape 2c and cover tape 2d of the following tape 2S do not overlap in the tape thickness direction in that order. For this reason, after the above connection, the peeling of the cover tape 2d from the base tape 2c of the preceding tape 2F and the peeling of the cover tape 2d from the base tape 2c of the following tape 2S can be performed continuously without any special work. In other words, the peeling of the cover tape 2d can be performed continuously before and after the joint between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S without requiring peeling work by the operator. Therefore, the transport of the carrier tape 2 after connection between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S can be achieved without imposing a burden on the operator.

[0090] Furthermore, the splicing device 40 has a cutting device 50 that cuts the leading tape 2F which is supported and transported on the transport path 11. With this cutting device 50, when connecting the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S, it is possible to remove unnecessary parts of the leading tape 2F (specifically, the part where there is an empty cavity 2e behind the cavity 2a of the final component in the tape transport direction X) and leave the necessary parts. As a result, the components housed in the cavity 2a of the carrier tape 2 after connection can be made continuous before and after the joint between the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S, thereby reducing the complexity of the transport control of the carrier tape 2 and simplifying its transport control.

[0091] Furthermore, the splicing device 40 has a component detection sensor 42 that detects components contained in the lead tape 2F. With this configuration, the final component in the lead tape 2F can be detected using the component detection sensor 42 before the lead tape 2F is cut by the cutting device 50. In addition, the splicing location of the lead tape 2F can be adjusted by transporting the lead tape 2F in the tape transport direction X using the tape transport mechanism 30 in response to the detection of the final component. As a result, the cutting device 50 can cut the lead tape 2F at an appropriate location immediately after the final component in the tape transport direction X, eliminating cavities 2a in the carrier tape 2 after splicing where components are not contained, and enabling efficient transport control of the carrier tape 2.

[0092] Furthermore, the feeder 1 is equipped with a moving mechanism 80 that moves relative to a transport path 11 that transports and supports the preceding tape 2F and a tape holder 60 that holds the following tape 2S. The splicing device 40 connects the rear end of the preceding tape 2F and the front end of the following tape 2S when the transport path 11 and the tape holder 60 are positioned in a splicing-ready position by the relative movement of the moving mechanism 80.

[0093] The movement of the transport path 11 towards the tape holder 60 by the moving mechanism 80 and the splicing by the splicing device 40 are performed even during PCB production by the component mounting machine, as long as the subsequent tape 2S is held in the tape holder 60 in a splicable manner. Therefore, the carrier tape 2 can be replenished without causing significant downtime even during PCB production by the component mounting machine, thereby improving the operating rate of the equipment.

[0094] Furthermore, the movement of the transport path 11 towards the tape holder 60 by the moving mechanism 80 and the splicing by the splicing device 40 are performed automatically without operator intervention when the final component on the preceding tape 2F is detected, provided that the following tape 2S is held in the tape holder 60 in a splicable manner. Therefore, even when the remaining components on the preceding tape 2F become low during substrate production by the component mounting machine, the carrier tape 2 can be replenished without forcing the operator to perform the splicing work between the preceding tape 2F and the following tape 2S. This reduces the workload on the operator, increases production efficiency, and reduces manpower.

[0095] Furthermore, the operator can hold the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60 at any time before the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S are connected. Therefore, since the operator can hold the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60 at any time before the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S are connected, the operator's work flexibility is improved and work efficiency is increased.

[0096] Furthermore, the splicing device 40 is integrated into the feeder 1. The moving mechanism 80 moves the transport path 11 between a transportable position and a splicing position relative to the tape holder 60. As a result, the transport of the carrier tape 2 and the replenishment of the carrier tape 2 when the remaining parts are running low can be completed with a single feeder 1.

[0097] Furthermore, the feeder 1 is equipped with a control device 90 that controls the splicing device 40. The control device 90 transmits the connection result between the leading tape 2F being transported by the splicing device 40 and the subsequent tape 2S for replenishment to the control device 91 of the component mounting machine. When the control device 91 of the component mounting machine receives the above connection result from the splicing device 40 from the control device 90 of the feeder 1, it associates the connection result with the identification information (ID) of the feeder 1 and uses it for subsequent board production and board information in the component mounting machine. For example, the control device 91 can recognize that the components on the carrier tape 2 being transported are switching from those on the leading tape 2F to those on the subsequent tape 2S, and can distinguish whether the components to be mounted on the board or that have been mounted belong to the leading tape 2F or the subsequent tape 2S.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the moving mechanism 80 that moves the transport path 11 and the tape holder 60 relative to each other is configured to slide the transport path 11 in the vertical direction Z. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the moving mechanism 80 may slide the tape holder 60 in the vertical direction Z, or it may slide both the transport path 11 and the tape holder 60 in the vertical direction Z.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the subsequent tape 2S is held in the tape holder 60 with the splicing tape 5 already attached to its front end by the operator, and the splicing device 40 has a splicing crimping section 70. The moving mechanism 80 slides the transport path 11 in the vertical direction Z, and when the transport path 11 moves from the transportable position to the splicingable position, the preceding tape 2F on the transport path 11 is crimped to the splicing tape 5 by the splicing crimping section 70, thereby connecting the preceding tape 2F to the subsequent tape 2S in the tape holder 60.

[0100] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the subsequent tape 2S may be held in the tape holder 60 without the splicing tape 5 attached, and the splicing device 40 may have a robot or the like that takes the splicing tape 5 out of the splicing tape storage unit and attaches it to at least one of the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S before the preceding tape 2F and the subsequent tape 2S are connected. The attachment of the splicing tape 5 by this robot or the like may be performed, for example, after the transport path 11 has reached the splicing-possible position from the transportable position side by sliding movement by the moving mechanism 80.

[0101] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the splicing device 40 is integrated with the feeder 1. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the splicing device 40 may be detachably attached to the feeder 1. In this modified structure, the part of the splicing device 40 that is detachably attached to the feeder 1 may be the entire splicing device 40, or it may be limited to a part of the splicing device 40.

[0102] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the control device 90 of the feeder 1 transmits the connection result between the leading tape 2F and the following tape 2S by the splicing device 40 to the control device 91 of the component mounting machine. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the control device 90 may transmit the connection result to a host computer 92 that is communicatively connected to the component mounting machine. With this modified configuration, the host computer can use the connection results from each splicing device 40 for subsequent board production and board information in all component mounting machines in the factory, for example.

[0103] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. In addition, this disclosure not only discloses the technical concept indicated by the reference relationships described in each claim at the time of filing, but also discloses a technical concept that appropriately combines the matters described in each claim. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1: Feeder, 2: Carrier tape, 2a: Cavity, 2b: Feed hole, 2c: Base tape, 2d: Cover tape, 2F: Leading tape, 2S: Following tape, 3: Reel, 3F: Leading reel, 3S: Following reel, 10: Feeder body, 11: Conveyor path, 20: Tape guide, 30: Tape transport mechanism, 35: Cover tape discharge mechanism, 40: Splicing device, 41: Unit body, 42: Part detection sensor, 50: Cutting device, 51: Cutter, 60: Tape holder, 70: Splicing crimping section, 80: Moving mechanism, 90, 91: Control device, 92: Host computer.

Claims

1. A feeder that transports a carrier tape containing parts, A feeder equipped with a splicing device that connects the rear end of the carrier tape being transported with the front end of the carrier tape for replenishment using a connecting member.

2. The feeder according to claim 1, wherein the splicing device has a cutting device for cutting the carrier tape while it is being transported.

3. The feeder according to claim 2, wherein the splicing device has a component detection sensor for detecting the component contained in the carrier tape during transport.

4. The feeder according to claim 3, wherein the cutting device cuts a predetermined location behind the last component among the components contained in the carrier tape being transported, as detected by the component detection sensor.

5. The system includes a transport path that supports the transport of the carrier tape during transport and a tape holder that holds the carrier tape for replenishment, and a moving mechanism that moves these relative to each other. The feeder according to claim 4, wherein the splicing device connects the rear end of the carrier tape being transported, which has been cut by the cutting device, to the front end of the carrier tape for replenishment, which is positioned by the relative movement of the transport path and the tape holder by the moving mechanism.

6. The device includes a control device for controlling the splicing device, The feeder according to claim 5, wherein the control device transmits the connection result between the carrier tape being transported by the splicing device and the replenishment carrier tape to a component mounting machine or a host computer that is communicably connected to the component mounting machine.

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