Component mounting machine, component processing equipment, and component processing method

Abstract

To provide a component mounting machine, a component processing device, and a component processing method that improve production efficiency.SOLUTION: A component mounting machine (1) includes: multiple pallets (9) that can hold each component (2); a pallet drive part (10) that sequentially moves each pallet (9) to a component receiving position (P1) of receiving the component (2) from a component supply feeder (12), a component processing position (P2) of processing the received component (2A), and a component delivery position (P3) of delivering the processed component (2A) to the mounting unit (6) by rotating multiple pallets (9) endlessly in the state where the multiple pallets are arranged; and a first component processing device (32) that is accessible to the component receiving position (P2) and folds the lead of the component (2A) at the component processing position (P2) to bring down the component (2A).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a component mounting machine, a component processing device, and a component processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, electronic components such as radial components and axial components are mounted on a substrate by a component mounting machine (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The component mounting machine of Patent Document 1 includes a pallet system that rotates a plurality of pallets capable of holding components in an endless manner, a mounting unit that receives the components held by each pallet and mounts them on the substrate, and a component supply feeder that supplies components to the pallet system.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, not only when the components supplied by the component supply feeder are directly transferred to the mounting unit, but depending on the specifications of the component mounting machine, it may be required to perform processing on leads or the like and then transfer them to the mounting unit. In such cases, it may be difficult to achieve both component processing and maintaining production efficiency, and it is desired to achieve high production efficiency even in specifications that require component processing.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problems and provide a component mounting machine, a component processing device, and a component processing method capable of improving production efficiency.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the component mounting machine of this disclosure comprises: a plurality of pallets each capable of holding a component; a pallet drive unit that rotates the plurality of pallets in an endless manner while they are lined up, moving each pallet in the order of a component receiving position for receiving components from a component supply feeder, a component processing position for processing the received components, and a component transfer position for handing over the processed components to a mounting unit; and a component processing device that can access the component processing position and bends the leads of the components at the component processing position to lay the components on their sides.

[0007] Furthermore, the parts processing apparatus of this disclosure is a parts mounting machine in which a plurality of pallets, each capable of holding a part, rotate endlessly, and each pallet is able to access a parts processing position located between a parts receiving position where it receives a part from a parts supply feeder and a parts delivery position where it delivers a part to a mounting unit, and the parts processing apparatus bends the leads of the parts at the parts processing position to lay the parts on their sides.

[0008] Furthermore, the part processing method of this disclosure involves a part mounting machine in which a plurality of pallets, each capable of holding a part, rotate endlessly, and using a part processing device that can access a part processing position located between a part receiving position where each pallet receives a part from a part supply feeder and a part delivery position where each pallet delivers a part to a mounting unit, the lead of the part at the part processing position is bent to lay the part on its side. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, production efficiency can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Schematic plan view of the component mounting machine of the embodiment [Figure 2] Perspective view of the first part processing apparatus of the embodiment [Figure 3] Perspective view of the first part processing apparatus of the embodiment [Figure 4] Plan view of the first part processing apparatus of the embodiment [Figure 5]Plan view of the first part processing apparatus of the embodiment [Figure 6] Enlarged perspective view of the surrounding configuration of the part processing position in the embodiment. [Figure 7] Enlarged perspective view of the surrounding configuration of the part processing position in the embodiment. [Figure 8] Block diagram showing the control system of the component mounting machine in the embodiment. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing an example of a component processing method using the component mounting machine of the embodiment. [Figure 10A] Schematic plan view illustrating the parts manufacturing method using the flowchart in Figure 9. [Figure 10B] Schematic plan view illustrating the parts manufacturing method using the flowchart in Figure 9. [Figure 10C] Schematic plan view illustrating the parts manufacturing method using the flowchart in Figure 9. [Figure 10D] Schematic plan view illustrating the parts manufacturing method using the flowchart in Figure 9. [Figure 10E] Schematic plan view illustrating the parts manufacturing method using the flowchart in Figure 9. [Figure 11A] Schematic plan view illustrating a usage mode (second mode) different from the usage mode (first mode) of the first parts processing apparatus shown in Figures 10A to 10E. [Figure 11B] Schematic plan view illustrating a usage mode (second mode) different from the usage mode (first mode) of the first parts processing apparatus shown in Figures 10A to 10E. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a component mounting machine is provided, comprising: a plurality of pallets each capable of holding a component; a pallet drive unit that rotates the plurality of pallets in an endless manner while they are arranged side by side, moving each pallet in the order of a component receiving position for receiving components from a component supply feeder, a component processing position for processing the received components, and a component transfer position for transferring the processed components to a mounting unit; and a component processing device that can access the component processing position and bends the leads of the components at the component processing position to lay the components on their sides.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the component processing device includes a first guide and a second guide that face each other so as to sandwich a component at the component processing position. The first guide has a first end that can contact the component when moving in a direction approaching the component at the component processing position. The second guide has a second end that contacts and supports the lead of the component at the component processing position from the side opposite to the first guide. There is provided a component mounting machine according to the first aspect.

[0013] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the first guide has a third end different from the first end, and is rotatable about a first rotation axis located between the first end and the third end. The component processing device further includes a first guide driving unit that moves between an operating position that engages with the third end of the first guide and rotates the first guide in a direction in which the first end approaches the component at the component processing position, and a retracted position that retreats away from the third end. There is provided a component mounting machine according to the second aspect.

[0014] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the component processing device further includes a biasing member that biases the first guide in a rotational direction in which the first end moves away from the component at the component processing position. There is provided a component mounting machine according to the third aspect.

[0015] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the second guide has a fourth end provided at a position facing the third end of the first guide, and the fourth end of the second guide is arranged at an interval from the third end of the first guide. There is provided a component mounting machine according to the fourth aspect.

[0016] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the second guide is rotatable about a second rotation axis located between the second end and the fourth end, between a first rotation position in which the fourth end approaches the third end and a second rotation position in which the fourth end moves away from the third end. The component processing device further includes a second guide driving unit that fixes the second guide at the second rotation position. There is provided a component mounting machine according to the fifth aspect.

[0017] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, the component mounting machine according to the sixth aspect is provided, wherein the second guide drive unit includes a cylinder attached to the second guide having a rod that moves back and forth, and the cylinder rotates the second guide from a first rotation position to a second rotation position by contacting a fixed stopper provided on the component processing device when the rod protrudes.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of this disclosure, the biasing member is mounted between the first guide and the second guide and biases the second guide toward the first rotational position, providing a component mounting machine according to the sixth or seventh aspect.

[0019] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a component mounting machine according to any one of the second to eighth aspects is provided, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end is interchangeable with one of a different shape.

[0020] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the part processing apparatus further includes a support block to which the first guide and the second guide are attached and supported, and a device drive unit that moves the support block back and forth to move the first guide and the second guide between an access position where the part at the part processing position is accessible and a retracted position where the part is retracted from the part processing position, thereby providing a part mounting machine according to any one of the third to ninth aspects.

[0021] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a component mounting machine according to the tenth aspect is provided, further comprising a control unit for controlling the operation of the component processing apparatus, wherein the control unit controls the pallet drive unit, the first guide drive unit, and the apparatus drive unit to move the first guide and the second guide from the retracted position to the access position when the plurality of pallets are stopped, rotate the first guide to process the component at the component processing position, retract the first guide and the second guide from the access position to the retracted position, and then move the plurality of pallets.

[0022] According to a twelfth aspect of this disclosure, a component mounting machine in which a plurality of pallets, each capable of holding a component, rotate endlessly is provided, wherein each pallet is able to access a component processing position located between a component receiving position where it receives a component from a component supply feeder and a component delivery position where it delivers a component to a mounting unit, and the component processing device is provided which bends the leads of the component at the component processing position to lay the component on its side.

[0023] According to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, a component processing method is provided for a component mounting machine in which a plurality of pallets, each capable of holding a component, rotate endlessly, and a component processing device that can access a component processing position located between a component receiving position where each pallet receives a component from a component supply feeder and a component delivery position where each pallet delivers a component to a mounting unit, thereby bending the lead of a component at the component processing position and tilting the component sideways.

[0024] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the component mounting machine, component processing apparatus, and component processing method relating to this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the specific configurations of the embodiments described below, but includes configurations based on similar technical ideas.

[0025] (Embodiment) First, with reference to Figure 1, a component mounting machine according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a component mounting machine 1 according to an embodiment.

[0027] The component mounting machine 1 shown in Figure 1 is a device for mounting leaded components 2 onto a substrate 3. In this embodiment, component 2 is a radially taped component. The substrate 3 on which component 2 is mounted becomes a "component mounted substrate". In Figure 1, component 2 is shown only in illustrative locations.

[0028] The component mounting machine 1 comprises a substrate holding table 4, a mounting unit 6, a pallet system 8, a pallet drive unit 10, a component supply feeder 12, and a control unit 14.

[0029] The substrate holding table 4 is a table that positions and holds the substrate 3 on its upper surface. In this embodiment, the substrate holding table 4 is movable in the horizontal direction.

[0030] The mounting unit 6 is a unit that mounts components 2 onto a substrate 3 positioned by a substrate holding table 4. The mounting unit 6 in this embodiment includes a transfer head 21 and an insertion head 23.

[0031] The transfer head 21 and the insertion head 23 are each members capable of holding component 2. The transfer head 21 transfers component 2 supplied by the pallet system 8 to the insertion head 23. The insertion head 23 inserts the component 2 transferred from the transfer head 21 onto the substrate 3 for mounting. Here, the position where the pallet system 8 hands over component 2 to the transfer head 21 is defined as component transfer position P3.

[0032] The pallet system 8 is a system for holding and transporting multiple parts 2. The pallet system 8 has multiple pallets 9, and one or more parts 2 can be held in each pallet 9. The multiple pallets 9 are connected in an endless manner and are driven by the pallet drive unit 10, for example, in the transport direction X1.

[0033] In this embodiment, the pallet drive unit 10 consists of multiple pulleys provided inside multiple pallets 9. The pallet drive unit 10 is driven by a servo motor (not shown) and is rotatable in both the forward and reverse directions.

[0034] The parts supply feeder 12 is a device for supplying parts 2 to the pallets 9 of the pallet system 8. The parts supply feeder 12 in this embodiment is a tape feeder that supplies radial taping parts as parts 2, and includes, for example, a plurality of feeders 12A, 12B. The number of feeders 12A, 12B is not limited to two, but may be any number. It may also include feeders that supply parts of a different type than radial taping parts (for example, axial parts). Here, the position where the pallet system 8 receives parts 2 from the parts supply feeder 12 is defined as the parts receiving position P1.

[0035] The control unit 14 is a component that controls various components of the component mounting machine 1. The control unit 14 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer having a circuit board. The control unit 14 is electrically connected to each component that makes up the component mounting machine 1.

[0036] The component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment further includes a component positioning device 30, a first component processing device 32, and a second component processing device 34. As shown in Figure 1, the component positioning device 30, the first component processing device 32, and the second component processing device 34 are arranged in that order along the transport direction X1.

[0037] The part positioning device 30 is a device for positioning the part 2 held on the pallet 9. By positioning the part 2, the accuracy of the subsequent processing of the part 2 by the first part processing device 32 and the second part processing device 34 can be improved.

[0038] The first part processing device 32 and the second part processing device 34 are devices for processing the part 2 positioned by the part positioning device 30. The first part processing device 32 in this embodiment is a device that bends the lead of the part 2 and lays the part 2 on its side. The second part processing device 34 in this embodiment is a device that cuts the lead of the part 2 that has been laid on its side by the first part processing device 32. By providing the first part processing device 32 and the second part processing device 34 in order along the transport direction X1, the part 2, with its body laid on its side and its lead cut to a predetermined length, can be supplied to the mounting unit 6.

[0039] Here, the position where the first part processing device 32 processes part 2 is defined as part processing position P2.

[0040] As the pallet system 8 rotates multiple pallets 9 in an endless manner, each pallet 9 moves in the following order: part receiving position P1, part processing position P2, and part handover position P3.

[0041] In this embodiment, the component mounting machine 1 is equipped with component processing devices 32 and 34 at a component processing position P2 located between the component receiving position P1 and the component handover position P3. This improves production efficiency, for example, by making it easier to retrieve the unprocessed components 2 that have been supplied to the pallet system 8 when the operation of the component mounting machine 1 is interrupted, compared to a configuration in which processed components 2 are supplied from a component supply feeder 12.

[0042] The component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment further incorporates improvements to the configuration of the first component processing device 32. The component positioning device 30 and the second component processing device 34 may be configured in any way that allows them to perform their respective functions, and a detailed explanation will be omitted. The configuration and operation of the first component processing device 32 will be described below using Figures 2 to 10E and Figures 11A and 11B.

[0043] Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the first parts processing apparatus 32 and a portion of the pallet system 8 from different directions, respectively, while Figures 4 and 5 are plan views of the first parts processing apparatus 32 and a portion of the pallet system 8 from above.

[0044] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the first part processing apparatus 32 comprises a first guide 36, a second guide 38, a support block 40, a pusher 42, and a cylinder 44. The entire first part processing apparatus 32, including these components, is configured to be movable forward and backward in a direction approaching the pallet system 8 (first direction A1) and a direction away from it (second direction A2). The support block 40 is not shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0045] Figures 2, 3, and 5 show the state in which the first part processing device 32 is moving forward in the first direction A1 and accessing part 2A at part processing position P2 (access position). Figure 4 shows the state in which the first part processing device 32 is moving backward in the second direction A2 and retracting from part 2A at part processing position P2 (retraction position).

[0046] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, each of the multiple parts 2 is held by a pallet 9 of the pallet system 8, with two leads being particularly clamped and held in an upright position.

[0047] The first guide 36 and the second guide 38 are a pair of members for machining part 2A at part machining position P2. Both the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 are capable of engaging with part 2A at part machining position P2 when the first part machining device 32 moves forward in the first direction A1.

[0048] The first guide 36 has a first end 46 that can engage with the part 2A. The second guide 38 has a second end 48 that can engage with the part 2A. When the first end 46 is pressed in contact with the upper part of the lead of the part 2A, and the second end 48 supports the lower part of the lead of the part 2A from the opposite side, the lead of the part 2A bends with the contact point with the second end 48 as a pivot point, and the part body can be tilted sideways. Figures 2, 3, and 5 illustrate the state in which the part 2A is tilted sideways.

[0049] The first guide 36 and the second guide 38 are each supported by the support block 40 so as to be able to rotate around a rotation axis Z1 that extends in the vertical direction. The first guide 36 is rotatable, while the second guide 38 is fixed in position by the cylinder 44. By having the first guide 36 function as a movable guide and the second guide 38 function as a fixed guide, the action of gripping and bending the lead of part 2A from both sides can be performed with high precision.

[0050] By releasing the cylinder 44 from fixing the second guide 38, both guides 36 and 38 can be made to function as movable guides and operate in different ways. Further details will be described later.

[0051] The pusher 42 is a component that selectively engages with the first guide 36 to operate the first guide 36. The pusher 42 is connected to a drive source (cylinder 80 in Figure 8), which is not shown, and is capable of reciprocating movement in a direction approaching the first guide 36 (first direction B1) and a direction away from the first guide 36 (second direction B2). Figures 2, 3, and 5 show the state in which the pusher 42 has advanced in the first direction B1 and is operating the first guide 36 (pusher 42 is in the operating position), while Figure 4 shows the state in which the pusher 42 has retracted in the second direction B2 and is not operating the first guide 36 (pusher 42 is in the retracted position).

[0052] The first guide 36 has a third end 50 that is different from the first end 46. The first guide 36 rotates about a rotation axis Z1 located between the first end 46 and the third end 50. The third end 50 is positioned opposite the pusher 42 and is pressed when the pusher 42 moves forward. As the pusher 42 presses against the third end 50, the first guide 36 rotates about the rotation axis Z1 in a first rotation direction R1, as shown in Figure 5. The first rotation direction R1 is the direction in which the third end 50 opens outward and the first end 46 closes inward. As the first end 46 closes inward, it contacts the lead of part 2A at the part processing position P2 and bends the lead.

[0053] The second guide 38 has a fourth end 52 that is different from the second end 48. The fourth end 52 is positioned opposite the pusher 42, similar to the third end 50. As shown in Figure 4, unlike the third end 50, the fourth end 52 is positioned at a distance from the third end 50 so that the second guide 38 does not rotate significantly even when the pusher 42 moves forward.

[0054] The cylinder 44 is a drive unit for controlling the rotational position of the second guide 38. The cylinder 44 has a cylinder body 54 and a rod 56. The cylinder body 54 is attached to the second guide 38 via a mounting bracket 58 and rotates integrally with the second guide 38. The rod 56 is a rod-shaped member protruding from the cylinder body 54 and is movable back and forth relative to the cylinder body 54.

[0055] In the state shown in Figures 2 to 5, the rod 56 is advancing in the first direction C1 and is in contact with a fixed stopper 60 that is permanently installed on the first part processing device 32. When the rod 56 contacts and presses against the fixed stopper 60, the cylinder 44 having the rod 56 and the second guide 38 to which the cylinder 44 is attached rotate together in the second rotation direction R2 about the rotation axis Z1. The second rotation direction R2 is the opposite direction of the first rotation direction R1, and is the direction in which the fourth end 52 opens outward and the second end 48 closes inward. By making the rod 56 protrude in this way, the second guide 38 can be fixed in a predetermined rotation position and function as a fixed guide.

[0056] Although not shown in Figures 2 and 3, biasing members 62 are further provided to bias the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 in a predetermined rotational direction, as shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0057] The biasing member 62 is a member that biases the first guide 36 in the second rotation direction R2 and biases the second guide 38 in the first rotation direction R1. One end of the biasing member 62 is attached to the third end 50 of the first guide 36, and the other end is attached to the fourth end 52 of the second guide. In this embodiment, the biasing member 62 is a tension spring that pulls the third end 50 and the fourth end 52 towards each other.

[0058] By providing the biasing member 62, the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 are biased in a direction that brings the third end 50 and the fourth end 52 closer together. The first guide 36 rotates in the second rotational direction R2 and stops, for example, by contact with the tip of the pusher 42. Although the second guide 38 is biased in the first rotational direction R1, it is forcibly rotated in the second rotational direction R2 by the drive of the cylinder 44 described above, so that the fourth end 52 is positioned away from the third end 50, contrary to the biasing force of the biasing member 62.

[0059] The rotational position of the second guide 38 can be changed by controlling the drive of the cylinder 44 as described above. Figures 2 to 5 show the state in which the rod 56 is advanced and in contact with the fixed stopper 60 (cylinder 44 is in the operating position). When the rod 56 is retracted, contact with the fixed stopper 60 is released (cylinder 44 is in the retracted position), and the second guide 38 rotates with bias in the first rotational direction R1. The second guide 38 stops when its fourth end 52 comes into contact with the tip of the pusher 42, for example, the first guide 36, similar to the first guide 36. When the pusher 42 is advanced in this state, both the third end 50 and the fourth end 52 are pressed, and the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 rotate synchronously so that the first end 46 and the second end 48 move closer to each other.

[0060] In this way, when the rod 56 is retracted, both the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 can function as movable guides.

[0061] As described above, the drive control of the cylinder 44 allows switching between a first mode, as shown in Figures 2 to 5 and 10A to 10E, in which the first guide 36 functions as a "movable guide" and the second guide 38 functions as a "fixed guide," and a second mode, as shown in Figures 11A and 11B, in which both guides 36 and 38 function as movable guides. This enables processing methods other than bending the lead of part 2A to tilt part 2A sideways (for example, correcting the posture of part 2A, correcting the pitch of the lead, correcting the tilt of the lead, forming kinks in the lead, etc.), thereby realizing "multi-processing."

[0062] In this embodiment, the first end 46 and the second end 48 are further detachably attached to the first guide 36 and the second guide 38, respectively, and can be changed to different shapes. Therefore, by adjusting (1) the manner in which the guides 36 and 38 are used (first or second mode) and (2) the shapes of the first end 46 and the second end 48, it is possible to accommodate various processing methods.

[0063] Figures 6 and 7 are enlarged perspective views showing the surrounding configuration of part 2A at part processing position P2, respectively. Part 2 is shown in Figure 6, while it is omitted in Figure 7.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the first end 46 and the second end 48 are positioned to overlap the lead of part 2 in the height direction along the Z axis, with the first end 46 positioned above the second end 48. When the first end 46 rotates in the first rotational direction R1, it contacts the lead of part 2 at a position higher than the second end 48, bending the lead, which is supported by the second end 48, toward the first rotational direction R1. Part 2A is bent, for example, by about 90 degrees, and the main body of the part changes from an upright position to a horizontal position.

[0065] Below the first end 46 and the second end 48, a first auxiliary end 66 and a second auxiliary end 68 are provided, respectively. The auxiliary ends 66 and 68 are portions that temporarily position the lead of component 2A by gripping it at a position lower than the first end 46 and the second end 48.

[0066] The first auxiliary end 66 is the end portion of the first guide 36 and rotates integrally with the first end 46. The second auxiliary end 68 is the end portion of the second guide 38 and is fixed in place, similar to the second end 48 (with the rod 56 protruding).

[0067] The first auxiliary end 66 and the second auxiliary end 68 are positioned to overlap in the height direction along the Z axis. When the first auxiliary end 66 rotates together with the first end 46 in the first rotation direction R1, the lead of part 2A can be sandwiched between it and the second auxiliary end 68 for positioning. By positioning the lead, the machining accuracy when the first end 46 and the second end 48 bend the upper part of the positioning location can be improved.

[0068] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, each pallet 9 has a pair of retaining claws 70 and 72. The retaining claws 70 and 72 are members for holding the lead of the part 2 in an upright position. In this embodiment, one retaining claw 70 is fixedly provided, while the other retaining claw 72 is rotatably provided around a rotation axis Z2. The other retaining claw 72 is biased in the closing direction by a biasing member (not shown). When the part 2 is transferred from the part supply feeder 12 to the pallet 9, the part supply feeder 12 engages with the retaining claws 72 so that the retaining claws 72 open. With the retaining claws 72 open, the lead of the part 2 is supplied into the gap between the retaining claws 70 and 72, and then the retaining claws 72 close as the part supply feeder 12 retracts. This allows the lead of the part 2 to be held between the retaining claws 70 and 72.

[0069] Figure 8 is a control system block diagram for component mounting machine 1.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 14 is electrically connected to each component of the component mounting machine 1, specifically to the pallet drive unit 10, the mounting unit 6, the component positioning device 30, the second component processing device 34, and the first component processing device 32.

[0071] The first parts processing apparatus 32 comprises a first guide drive unit 74, a second guide drive unit 76, and an apparatus drive unit 78.

[0072] The first guide drive unit 74 is a drive unit for driving the aforementioned first guide 36, and comprises a pusher 42 and a cylinder 80. The cylinder 80 is a drive unit for moving the pusher 42 back and forth in the first direction B1 and the second direction B2, and is not shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[0073] The second guide drive unit 76 is a drive unit for driving the aforementioned second guide 38 and includes a cylinder 44 having a rod 56.

[0074] The device drive unit 78 is a drive unit for moving the entire first part processing device 32 back and forth in a first direction A1 and a second direction A2, and includes a motor 82. The motor 82 is connected to a support block 40, etc., by a cam mechanism (not shown), and moves the support block 40, guides 36, 38, and other components together in the back and forth direction.

[0075] An example of the operation of processing part 2A at part processing position P2 using the first part processing apparatus 32 having the above-described configuration will be explained with reference to Figures 9 and 10A to 10E.

[0076] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for processing component 2A by component mounting machine 1, and Figures 10A to 10E are schematic plan views illustrating the method for processing component 2A according to the flowchart in Figure 9. Each step of the flow shown in Figure 9 is performed, for example, by control unit 14.

[0077] The control unit 14 moves the pallet 9 one pitch (S1). Specifically, the control unit 14 rotates the pallet drive unit 10 to move multiple pallets 9 forward one pitch in the transport direction X1 and stop them.

[0078] Figure 10A shows the state where the pallet 9 has been advanced by one pitch and stopped. As shown in Figure 10A, part 2B, which has been tilted on its side by the processing of the first part processing device 32, stops at a position one pitch downstream of the part processing position P2, and a new part to be processed, part 2C, stops at the part processing position P2. When the pallet 9 moves, the first part processing device 32 is retracted in the second direction A2.

[0079] The control unit 14 moves the first part processing device 32 forward (S2). Specifically, the control unit 14 drives the motor 82 (Figure 8) of the device drive unit 78 to move the first part processing device 32 forward in the first direction A1, as shown in Figure 10B. This allows the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 to access the part 2C at the part processing position P2. By retracting the pusher 42 in the second direction B2, a gap is created between the first end 46 and the second end 48, allowing the lead of the part 2 to be placed in this gap.

[0080] The control unit 14 moves the pusher 42 forward (S3). Specifically, the control unit 14 drives the cylinder 80 (Figure 8) of the first guide drive unit 74 to move the pusher 42 forward in the first direction B1, as shown in Figure 10C. The moved pusher 42 presses against the third end 50 of the first guide 36, causing the first guide 36 to rotate in the first rotation direction R1. The rotation of the first guide 36 causes the first end 46 of the first guide 36 to move closer to the second end 48 of the second guide 38, pushing the upper part of the lead of the part 2, which is supported by the second end 48, to the opposite side, thereby bending the lead of the part 2 and tilting the part body sideways, as shown in Figure 6, etc.

[0081] The control unit 14 retracts the pusher 42 (S4). Specifically, the control unit 14 drives the cylinder 80 of the first guide drive unit 74 to retract the pusher 42 in the second direction B2, as shown in Figure 10D. As the pusher 42 retracts, the first guide 36 rotates in the second rotation direction R2 due to the biasing force of the biasing member 62, and the first end 46 of the first guide 36 separates from the lead of the part 2. This makes it possible for the lead of the part 2 to detach from the gap between the first end 46 and the second end 48.

[0082] The control unit 14 moves the first part processing device 32 backward (S5). Specifically, the control unit 14 drives the motor 82 of the device drive unit 78 to move the first part processing device 32, including the first guide 36 and the second guide 38, backward in the second direction A2 as shown in Figure 10E. As the first part processing device 32 moves away from the part processing position P2, the pallet 9 can move in the transport direction X1 without interfering with the first part processing device 32. Subsequently, when the pallet system 8 moves the pallet 9 by one pitch (S1), the processed part 2C is sent downstream of the part processing position P2, and a new part to be processed, part 2D, stops at the part processing position P2.

[0083] By repeatedly executing steps S1 to S5, the parts 2 held on the pallet 9 can be processed sequentially at the part processing position P2. The parts 2 processed by the first part processing device 32 are then processed by the second part processing device 34 to cut the leads, and finally supplied to the mounting unit 6.

[0084] According to the configuration and method described above, a first part processing device 32 is provided that can access a part processing position P2 located between a part receiving position P1 and a part handover position P3, and processes parts 2 that are being transported by the pallet system 8. This allows parts 2 to be processed at a position closer to the part handover position P3, compared to a configuration in which already processed parts 2 are supplied to the pallet 9 from a part supply feeder 12. When the operation of the part mounting machine 1 is stopped midway, it becomes possible to recover unprocessed parts 2 between the part supply position P1 and the part processing position P2, making it easier to reuse parts 2 and leading to improved production efficiency.

[0085] Furthermore, when installing the component positioning device 30 and component processing devices 32 and 34 in the component mounting machine 1, one possible method is to fit the bottom portion of each device into a predetermined slot and fix it in place. In this embodiment, the first component processing device 32 is equipped with two guides 36 and 38 as an integrated unit, eliminating the need to construct each guide separately and install them in different slots. The first component processing device 32, including the two guides 36 and 38, can be installed in a single slot. This reduces the number of slots occupied, allowing the adjacent component positioning device 30 and second component positioning device 34 to be placed closer together, thereby achieving space savings.

[0086] Next, unlike the usage modes shown in Figures 2 to 10E (first mode), a usage mode in which the rod 56 of the cylinder 44 is retracted (second mode) will be explained using Figures 11A and 11B.

[0087] Figures 11A and 11B are schematic plan views illustrating a second mode of use for the first part processing apparatus 32. Figure 11A shows the first part processing apparatus 32 retracted from the part processing position P2 in the second direction A2, and Figure 11B shows the first part processing apparatus 32 advancing in the first direction A1 to access part 2C at the part processing position P2.

[0088] As shown in Figure 11A, by retracting the rod 56 of the cylinder 44 in the second direction C2, the rod 56 is separated from the fixed stopper 60. In this state, the cylinder 44 does not generate a force that rotates the second guide 38 in the second rotation direction R2, so the second guide 38 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 due to the biasing force of the biasing member 62.

[0089] In the example shown in Figure 11A, the third end 50 of the first guide 36 and the fourth end 52 of the second guide 38 are both in contact with the tip of the pusher 42 and are stopped.

[0090] From the state shown in Figure 11A, when the first part processing device 32 is advanced in the first direction A1 (S3) and the pusher 42 is advanced in the first direction B1 (S4), the state shown in Figure 11B is reached.

[0091] As shown in Figure 11B, the forward movement of the pusher 42 presses both the third end 50 and the fourth end 52, causing the first guide 36 to rotate in the first rotational direction R1 and the second guide 38 to rotate in the second rotational direction R2. The first end 46 and the second end 48 move toward each other, gripping the lead of the part 2. Since the first end 46 and the second end 48 can be changed to shapes different from those of the first embodiment, it is possible to perform processing methods other than tilting the part 2 sideways as shown in Figures 10A to 10E, such as gripping the lead of the part 2 to correct the posture of the part 2, the pitch and tilt of the lead, and forming kinks in the lead.

[0092] It is not limited to cases where the processing method for part 2 is different in the first embodiment shown in Figures 10A to 10E and the second embodiment shown in Figures 11A and 11B; the same processing method may be used. In that case, the first end 46 and the second end 48 may be used with the same shape without changing their shapes.

[0093] (Effects / Actions) As described above, the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of pallets 9 each capable of holding a component 2, a pallet drive unit 10 that rotates the plurality of pallets 9 in an endless manner while they are lined up, moving each pallet 9 in the order of a component receiving position P1 for receiving components 2 from a component supply feeder 12, a component processing position P2 for processing the received components 2A, and a component transfer position P3 for handing over the processed components 2A to the mounting unit 6, and a first component processing device 32 that can access the component processing position P2 and bends the leads of the components 2A at the component processing position P2 to lay the components 2A on their side.

[0094] With this configuration, in a setup where the first part processing device 32 supplies part 2A to the mounting unit 6 in a horizontal position, part 2A is processed between the part receiving position P1 and the part transfer position P3. This allows part 2A to be processed at a position closer to the part transfer position P3 compared to, for example, a configuration where processed part 2 is supplied from the part supply feeder 12 to the pallet 9. This leads to improved production efficiency, such as making it easier to recover the unprocessed part 2 when the operation of the part mounting machine 1 is stopped.

[0095] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the first component processing device 32 is equipped with a first guide 36 and a second guide 38 that face each other so as to sandwich the component 2A at the component processing position P2. The first guide 36 has a first end 46 that can contact the component 2A when it moves in a direction approaching the component 2A at the component processing position P2, and the second guide 38 has a second end 48 that contacts and supports the lead of the component 2A at the component processing position P2 from the opposite side from the first guide 36. With this configuration, the lead of the component 2A can be bent and the component 2A can be laid on its side using the simple configuration of the first guide 36 and the second guide 38.

[0096] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the first guide 36 has a third end 50 that is different from the first end 46, and is rotatable about a rotation axis Z1 (first rotation axis) located between the first end 46 and the third end 50. The first component processing device 32 further includes a pusher 42 (first guide drive unit 74) that moves between an operating position in which the first guide 36 is rotated so that the first end 46 approaches the component 2A by engaging with the third end 50 of the first guide 36, and a retracted position in which it is moved away from the third end 50. With this configuration, the first guide 36 can be easily operated by driving the pusher 42.

[0097] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the first component processing device 32 is further equipped with a biasing member 62 that biases the first guide 36 in a second rotational direction R2 such that the first end 46 moves away from the component 2A at the component processing position P2. With this configuration, the first guide 36 can be retracted when not in operation.

[0098] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the second guide 38 has a fourth end 52 positioned opposite the third end 50 of the first guide 36, and the fourth end 52 is positioned at a distance from the third end 50 of the first guide 36. With this configuration, when the pusher 42 contacts the third end 50 of the first guide 36 and rotates the first guide 36, contact with the fourth end 52 of the second guide 38 can be suppressed to prevent large rotations, and the second guide 38 can function as a fixed guide. The term "fixed guide" is not limited to cases where it does not move at all in conjunction with the driving of the pusher 42, but may also refer to cases where it moves by a smaller amount than a movable guide.

[0099] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the second guide 38 is rotatable around a rotation axis Z2 (second rotation axis) located between the second end 48 and the fourth end 52, between a first rotation position (Figure 11A) where the fourth end 52 approaches the third end 50 and a second rotation position (Figure 11B) where the fourth end 52 moves away from the third end 50. The first component processing device 32 further includes a cylinder 44 (second guide drive unit 76) that fixes the second guide 38 in the second rotation position. With this configuration, if the fixing by the cylinder 44 is released, the second guide 38 can move to the first rotation position, and the pusher 42 can contact both the first guide 36 and the second guide 38. This makes it possible to operate the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 in a manner different from when the second guide 38 is fixed in the second rotation position.

[0100] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the second guide drive unit 76 includes a cylinder 44 attached to the second guide 38, which has a rod 56 that moves back and forth. The cylinder 44 contacts a fixed stopper 60 provided on the first component processing device 32 when the rod 56 protrudes, thereby rotating the second guide 38 from the first rotation position to the second rotation position. With this configuration, by controlling the position of the rod 56 of the cylinder 44, the second guide 38 can be selectively fixed at the second rotation position, and the second guide 38 can be selectively positioned at the first rotation position and the second rotation position, respectively.

[0101] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the biasing member 62 is installed between the first guide 36 and the second guide 38, and biases the second guide 38 toward the first rotation position. With this configuration, the biasing member 62 that biases the first guide 36 can be used to bias the second guide 38, which can then be retracted when not in operation.

[0102] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the first end 46 and the second end 48 are interchangeable with those of different shapes. With this configuration, by replacing at least one of the first end 46 and the second end 48 with one of different shapes, it becomes possible to perform processing other than tilting the component 2A on its side. It is not limited to the case where both the first end 46 and the second end 48 are interchangeable; it is sufficient if at least one of the first end 46 and the second end 48 is interchangeable with one of different shapes.

[0103] Furthermore, in the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment, the first component processing device 32 further includes a support block 40 to which the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 are attached and supported, and a device drive unit 78 that moves the support block 40 back and forth to move the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 between an access position that allows access to the component 2A at the component processing position P2 and a retracted position that is moved away from the component processing position P2. With this configuration, when the pallet 9 is moving, the two guides 36 and 38 are retracted to the retracted position, and when the pallet 9 is stopped, the two guides 36 and 38 are moved to the access position to process the component 2A.

[0104] Furthermore, the component mounting machine 1 of this embodiment is further equipped with a control unit 14 for controlling the operation of the first component processing device 32. The control unit 14 controls the pallet drive unit 10, the pusher 42 (first guide drive unit 74), and the device drive unit 78 to move the component 2A at component processing position P2 when the multiple pallets 9 are stopped, move the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 from the retracted position to the access position (S2), rotate the first guide 36 to process the component 2A at component processing position P2 (S3), retract the first guide 36 and the second guide 38 from the access position to the retracted position (S4, S5), and then move the multiple pallets 9 (S1). With this configuration, the two guides 36 and 38 are retracted to the retracted position when the pallets 9 are moving, while the guides 36 and 38 are moved to the access position to process the component 2A when the pallets 9 are stopped.

[0105] Furthermore, the first component processing apparatus 32 of the embodiment is a component mounting machine 1 in which a plurality of pallets 9 capable of each holding a component 2 rotate endlessly, and each pallet 9 is able to access a component processing position P2 located between a component receiving position P1 where it receives a component 2 from a component supply feeder 12 and a component transfer position P3 where it hands over a component 2 to a mounting unit 6, and the lead of the component 2A at the component processing position P2 is bent to lay the component 2A on its side.

[0106] This configuration leads to an improvement in the production efficiency of the component mounting machine 1.

[0107] Furthermore, in the component processing method of the embodiment, a component mounting machine 1 in which a plurality of pallets 9 capable of each holding a component 2 rotate endlessly is used, and a first component processing device 32 that can access a component processing position P2 located between a component receiving position P1 where each pallet 9 receives a component 2 from a component supply feeder 12 and a component transfer position P3 where each pallet 9 hands over a component 2 to a mounting unit 6 is used to bend the lead of the component 2A at the component processing position P2 and lay the component 2A on its side.

[0108] This method leads to an improvement in the production efficiency of the component mounting machine 1.

[0109] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments described, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, in this embodiment, a case in which a part positioning device 30 and a second part processing device 34 are provided on either side of the first part processing device 32 has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to this case. For example, the part positioning device 30 and the second part processing device 34 may be omitted, or replaced with devices with different functions.

[0110] In this embodiment, the first guide drive unit 74 is equipped with a cylinder 80, the second guide drive unit 76 is equipped with a cylinder 44, and the device drive unit 78 is equipped with a motor 82, but the embodiment is not limited to this case. The cylinders 80 and 44 and the motor 82 are examples of drive units, and any type of drive unit that can achieve similar functions may be used.

[0111] While this disclosure is adequately described in relation to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various variations and modifications will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications should be understood as being included within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the attached claims. Furthermore, variations in combinations and sequences of elements in each embodiment can be realized without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0112] This disclosure is applicable to component mounting machines, component processing equipment, and component processing methods for processing components such as radially taped components. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0113] 1. Component mounting machine 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D parts 3 circuit boards 5. Parts holding tape 6 Implementation Units 8 Pallet System 9 Palettes 10 Pallet drive unit 12. Parts supply feeder 14 Control Unit 32. First Part Processing Machine X1 Conveying direction P1 Parts receiving location P2 Part machining position P3 Parts handover location

Claims

1. Multiple pallets, each capable of holding a part, A pallet drive unit rotates the multiple pallets in an endless manner while they are lined up, moving each pallet in the following order: a parts receiving position for receiving parts from a parts supply feeder, a parts processing position for processing the received parts, and a parts transfer position for handing over the processed parts to the mounting unit. The device includes a part processing apparatus that can access the part processing location and bends the lead of the part at the part processing location to tilt the part sideways. Component mounting machine.

2. The parts processing apparatus includes a first guide and a second guide that face each other so as to sandwich the part at the parts processing position, The first guide has a first end that can contact the part when it moves in a direction approaching the part at the part machining position, The component mounting machine according to claim 1, wherein the second guide has a second end that contacts and supports the lead of the component at the component processing position from the opposite side from the first guide.

3. The first guide has a third end different from the first end, and is rotatable about a first axis of rotation located between the first end and the third end. The component mounting machine according to claim 2, further comprising a first guide drive unit that moves between an operating position in which the first guide is engaged with the third end of the first guide and rotates the first guide in a direction in which the first end approaches the component at the component processing position, and a retracted position in which the first guide is retracted away from the third end.

4. The component mounting machine according to claim 3, further comprising a biasing member that biases the first guide in a rotational direction such that the first end moves away from the component at the component processing position.

5. The second guide has a fourth end located opposite the third end of the first guide, The component mounting machine according to claim 4, wherein the fourth end of the second guide is positioned at a distance from the third end of the first guide.

6. The second guide is rotatable about a second axis of rotation located between the second end and the fourth end, between a first rotational position in which the fourth end approaches the third end and a second rotational position in which the fourth end moves away from the third end. The component mounting machine according to claim 5, further comprising a second guide drive unit for fixing the second guide at the second rotational position.

7. The second guide drive unit includes a cylinder attached to the second guide, which has a rod that moves back and forth. The component mounting machine according to claim 6, wherein the cylinder contacts a fixed stopper provided on the component processing device when the rod protrudes, thereby rotating the second guide from the first rotation position to the second rotation position.

8. The component mounting machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the biasing member is mounted between the first guide and the second guide and biases the second guide toward the first rotational position.

9. The component mounting machine according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end is interchangeable with one of a different shape.

10. The component mounting machine according to claim 3, further comprising: a support block to which the first guide and the second guide are attached and supported; and a device drive unit that moves the support block back and forth to move the first guide and the second guide between an access position that allows access to the component at the component processing position and a retracted position that is moved away from the component processing position.

11. The device further comprises a control unit for controlling the operation of the parts processing apparatus, The component mounting machine according to claim 10, wherein the control unit controls the pallet drive unit, the first guide drive unit, and the device drive unit to move the first guide and the second guide from the retracted position to the access position when the plurality of pallets are stopped, rotate the first guide to process the part at the part processing position, retract the first guide and the second guide from the access position to the retracted position, and then move the plurality of pallets.

12. A component mounting machine in which multiple pallets, each capable of holding a component, rotate endlessly, wherein each pallet is able to access a component processing position located between a component receiving position where it receives a component from a component supply feeder and a component delivery position where it delivers a component to a mounting unit, and the component processing device bends the leads of the component at the component processing position to lay the component on its side.

13. A component processing method for a component mounting machine in which multiple pallets, each capable of holding a component, rotate endlessly, wherein a component processing device that can access a component processing position located between a component receiving position where each pallet receives a component from a component supply feeder and a component delivery position where each pallet delivers a component to a mounting unit, is used to bend the leads of a component at the component processing position and lay the component on its side.

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