Stack tray feeder

Abstract

Disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention is a stack tray feeder comprising: an input unit into which stacked trays are input; a pickup unit at which mounting equipment picks up components loaded on the trays; a discharge unit for discharging the stacked trays; a temporary storage unit in which the trays transferred from the pickup unit stay; a transfer unit for transferring the trays to a predetermined position; and a control unit for controlling movement of the trays.

Description

Stack Tray Feeder

[0001] The present invention relates to a stack tray feeder, and more particularly, to a stack tray feeder that facilitates the recovery of parts and the determination of the quantity of parts.

[0002] A stack tray feeder is a component supply device that transports trays loaded with parts to a pickup unit and supplies them to the mounting equipment. Stack tray feeders are widely used in the field today because they save space by loading and unloading stacked trays.

[0003] Previously, all trays in the pickup area were transported to the discharge area, regardless of whether they contained any parts. Consequently, even if parts remained on a tray transported to the discharge area, workers could discard them if they were unaware of the presence of these parts. Furthermore, even if workers recognized that some trays contained parts, they had to check each tray individually, which was inefficient.

[0004] The background technology described above is technical information that the inventor possessed for the purpose of deriving the present invention or acquired in the process of deriving the present invention, and cannot necessarily be considered as publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the application for the present invention.

[0005] The present invention is intended to solve the above-mentioned problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a stack tray feeder having a temporary storage section, which facilitates the recovery of parts when parts remain on a tray, and facilitates the determination of the quantity of parts.

[0006] However, these tasks are merely exemplary, and the challenges addressed by the present invention are not limited thereto. Any challenges not mentioned will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention discloses a stack tray feeder including an input section into which stacked trays are input, a pickup section in which a mounting device picks up components loaded on the trays, an output section in which the stacked trays are ejected, a temporary storage section in which the trays transported from the pickup section stay, a transport section in which the trays are transported to a predetermined position, and a control section in which the movement of the trays is controlled.

[0008] In this embodiment, in the input section, a plurality of stacks formed by stacking a plurality of trays loaded with parts are moved toward the transport section, and in the discharge section, a plurality of dumps formed by stacking a plurality of empty trays can be moved from the transport section.

[0009] In this embodiment, the input part and the discharge part can be interchanged.

[0010] In this embodiment, the input unit may include a tray input opening that is automatically exposed to the outside when the stack on which it was mounted moves.

[0011] In this embodiment, the discharge unit may include a tray discharge port that is automatically exposed to the outside when the dump is mounted.

[0012] In this embodiment, the pickup unit may include a plurality of units.

[0013] In this embodiment, the temporary storage unit may include an access unit that allows the tray to be taken out to the outside or brought in from the outside.

[0014] In this embodiment, the temporary storage unit may include a work unit on which the tray is mounted.

[0015] In this embodiment, the temporary storage unit may include a status checking unit that identifies the current status information of the tray mounted on the work unit.

[0016] In the present embodiment, the temporary storage unit may include a storage unit that accommodates a plurality of the trays.

[0017] In this embodiment, the transport unit can transport the tray located in the pickup unit to the temporary storage unit, or transport the tray placed in the temporary storage unit to the pickup unit.

[0018] In the present embodiment, the device may further include a communication unit that receives first information about a tray located in the pickup unit from the mounting equipment.

[0019] In the present embodiment, the first information may include whether the component remains in the tray.

[0020] In this embodiment, the control unit can receive the first information from the communication unit and determine whether or not a part remains in the tray, and if the part remains in the tray, control the tray to be moved to the temporary storage unit, and if the part does not remain in the tray, control the tray to be moved to the discharge unit.

[0021] In this embodiment, when the control unit receives second information on whether work is to be stopped from the pickup unit, the control unit can control the tray located in the pickup unit to be moved to the temporary storage unit.

[0022] In this embodiment, the apparatus further includes an operation unit for receiving a command from a worker, and the control unit can control the tray located in the pickup unit to be moved to the temporary storage unit based on the command signal of the worker received from the operation unit, or can control the tray located in the temporary storage unit to be moved to the pickup unit or the discharge unit.

[0023] Other aspects, features and advantages other than those described above will become apparent from the following detailed description, claims and drawings for carrying out the invention.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a stack tray feeder includes a temporary storage unit, allowing the tray currently being processed to be temporarily stored before being immediately transferred to the discharge unit if the pickup operation is interrupted for any reason. This allows for easy retrieval or storage of parts remaining on the tray, and facilitates the identification of the quantity of parts.

[0025] A stack tray feeder according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a temporary storage unit, so that when there is a problem with a tray or an abnormality in a part loaded on a tray, the tray can be moved to the temporary storage unit for inspection without stopping the picking operation, thereby enabling the process to proceed smoothly and preventing unnecessary waste of time, thereby increasing production efficiency.

[0026] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a stack tray feeder according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a tray discharge port automatically exposed to the outside according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the transport path of trays and the connection relationship between components within a stack tray feeder according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a process of transferring a tray from an input unit to a first pickup unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the process of transferring a tray from an input section to a second pickup section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the process of transferring an empty tray from a first pickup unit to a discharge unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the process of transferring an unused tray from a second pickup unit to a temporary storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a temporary storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the entry and exit of an unused tray from a temporary storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the process of transferring an unused tray from a temporary storage unit to a first pickup unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the process of transferring an empty tray from a temporary storage unit to a discharge unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] One embodiment of the present invention discloses a stack tray feeder including an input section into which stacked trays are input, a pickup section in which a mounting device picks up components loaded on the trays, an output section in which the stacked trays are ejected, a temporary storage section in which the trays transported from the pickup section stay, a transport section in which the trays are transported to a predetermined position, and a control section in which the movement of the trays is controlled.

[0039] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the description of the invention. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. In describing the present invention, the same identification numerals are used for identical components, even if they are illustrated in different embodiments.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0041] In the examples below, the terms first, second, etc. are not used in a limiting sense, but are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0042] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] In the examples below, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0044] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of explanation, and therefore the present invention is not necessarily limited to the drawings.

[0045] In the following embodiments, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are not limited to the three axes in an orthogonal coordinate system but can be interpreted in a broader sense that includes them. For example, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis may be orthogonal to each other, but they may also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other.

[0046] In some embodiments, where implementations are otherwise feasible, specific process sequences may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the described order.

[0047] The terminology used in this application is only used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. In this application, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood to not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0048] In the following examples, when it is said that a film, region, component, etc. are connected, it includes not only cases where the films, regions, and components are directly connected, but also cases where other films, regions, and components are interposed between the films, regions, and components and thus indirectly connected. For example, when it is said in this specification that a film, region, component, etc. are electrically connected, it includes not only cases where the films, regions, and components are directly electrically connected, but also cases where other films, regions, and components are interposed between them and thus indirectly electrically connected.

[0049] Hereinafter, a stack tray feeder according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a stack tray feeder (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a tray discharge port (133) automatically exposed to the outside according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the transfer path of a tray (T) within a stack tray feeder (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention and the connection relationship between the components. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the process of transferring a tray (T) from an input unit (110) to a first pickup unit (121) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the process of transferring a tray (T) from an input unit (110) to a second pickup unit (123) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the process of transferring an empty tray (E) from a first pickup unit (121) to a discharge unit (130) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] A stack tray feeder (100) is a component supply device that transports a tray (T) separated from a stack (S) to a pickup unit (120) to supply components (P) to a mounting device (M) and discharges an empty tray (E). A tray (T) may have a plurality of components (P) stacked in a planar arrangement. In one embodiment, the components (P) may include materials assembled into electronic products such as printed circuit boards (PCBs), but are not limited thereto. A stack (S) may refer to a state in which a plurality of trays (T) loaded with components (P) are stacked vertically. In FIG. 1, for convenience, two trays (T) are shown stacked in the stack (S), but the number of trays (T) that can be stacked in the stack (S) is not specifically limited. The stack tray feeder (100), referring to FIG. 1, may include an input section (110), a pickup section (120), a discharge section (130), a transport section (140), a temporary storage section (150), a control section (160), a communication section (170), and an operation section (180).

[0052] The input unit (110) can be input with trays (T) loaded with parts (P) stacked, i.e., a stack (S). Specifically, the input unit (110) can include a tray input port (111) and a stack moving unit (113).

[0053] The tray inlet (111) may include a shelf that can form a stack (S) by stacking trays (T) loaded with parts (P). In other words, the tray inlet (111) may include a shelf on which trays can be placed in a stack (S) state. The stack (S) placed in the tray inlet (111) can be introduced into the stack moving unit (113) to wait and move. The tray inlet (111) can be inserted into the stack moving unit (113). The stack (S) can be introduced into the stack moving unit (113) by inserting the tray inlet (111) into the stack moving unit (113) with the stack (S) placed therein.

[0054] In one embodiment, the tray input port (111) can be automatically exposed to the outside when the stack (S) placed in the tray input port (111) is moved by being introduced into the stack moving unit (113). Accordingly, the worker can know that the stack (S) has moved and a new stack (S) can be input, and can input the new stack (S) immediately, thereby continuously inputting trays (T) without waiting time. Meanwhile, the tray input port (111) can include a safety device that can prevent dangers such as the tray completely falling out when automatically exposed to the outside.

[0055] In the stack moving unit (113), multiple stacks (S) can be on standby. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, in the stack moving unit (113), a first stack (S1), a second stack (S2), and a third stack (S3) can be sequentially lined up and on standby. In addition, the stack moving unit (113) can move multiple stacks (S) toward a transport unit (140) to be described later.

[0056] For example, when the first stack (S1) is placed on the upper part of the lifting shuttle unit (141) to be described later, the second stack (S2) can be moved to the existing first stack (S1) position, and the third stack (S3) can be moved to the existing second stack (S2) position. If the third stack (S3) is placed on the tray input port (111) and then moved to the stack moving unit (113), the tray input port (111) can then be automatically exposed to the outside.

[0057] The pickup unit (120) can be used by the mounting equipment (M) to pick up the parts (P) loaded on the tray (T). The pickup unit (120) can include a plurality of pickup units. The pickup unit (120) can include a first pickup unit (121) and a second pickup unit (123). Since there are a plurality of pickup units (120), the waiting time can be reduced, thereby improving the supply speed of the parts (P). For example, while replacing the tray (T) of the first pickup unit (121), the mounting equipment (M) can pick up the parts (P) from the tray (T) in the second pickup unit (123) without waiting.

[0058] The first pickup unit (121) and the second pickup unit (123) can be arranged on the same plane, as shown in Fig. 1. In the first pickup unit (121) and the second pickup unit (123), the tray (T) is exposed to the outside and can come into contact with the mounting equipment (M).

[0059] The discharge unit (130) can discharge the remaining empty trays (E) stacked after all parts (P) have been picked up. The dump (D) can refer to a state in which a plurality of empty trays (E) are vertically stacked. In Fig. 1, for convenience, two empty trays (E) are stacked on the dump (D), but the number of empty trays (E) that can be stacked on the dump (D) is not particularly limited. In the discharge unit (130), a plurality of dumps (D) can be moved from a transport unit (140) to be described later.

[0060] Specifically, the discharge unit (130) may include a dump moving unit (131) and a tray discharge port (133). The dump moving unit (131) may allow a plurality of dumps (D) moved from the transport unit (140) to wait and be moved. The dumps (D) may be discharged from the tray discharge port (133). In one embodiment, the dump (D) may be placed on the tray discharge port (133). An operator may separate an empty tray (E) from the dump (D) placed on the tray discharge port (133) and discharge it to the outside. In another embodiment, the operator may discharge all dumps (D) placed on the tray discharge port (133) at once.

[0061] In one embodiment, the tray discharge port (133), as shown in FIG. 2, can be automatically exposed to the outside from the dump moving unit (131) while the dump (D) is placed therein. Accordingly, the operator can continuously discharge the dump (D) without a waiting time by emptying the dump (D) discharged from the tray discharge port (133) and then reinserting the tray discharge port (133) into the dump moving unit (131). Meanwhile, the tray discharge port (133) can include a safety device that can prevent dangers such as the tray being completely removed and falling when automatically exposed to the outside.

[0062] For example, as shown in Fig. 2, in the dump moving unit (131), the first dump (D1), the second dump (D2), and the third dump (D3) can be lined up and waiting in sequence. The first dump (D1) can be placed in the tray discharge port (133) in the dump moving unit (131). The tray discharge port (133) can be exposed to the outside with the first dump (D1) placed thereon. At this time, the second dump (D2) can be moved to the existing first dump (D1) position, and the third dump (D3) can be moved to the existing second dump (D2) position.

[0063] The transport unit (140) can transport the tray (T) to a designated position. Referring to FIG. 1, the transport unit (140) may include a lifting shuttle unit (141), a first horizontal moving unit (143), a second horizontal moving unit (145), a first vertical moving unit (147), and a second vertical moving unit (149).

[0064] Referring to FIG. 1, the lifting shuttle unit (141) can be in contact with all of the input unit (110), the discharge unit (130), and the temporary storage unit (150). The lifting shuttle unit (141) can have a stack (S) or a dump (D) placed on the upper end. The lifting shuttle unit (141) can be raised or lowered while the stack (S) or the dump (D) is placed on the upper end. The lifting shuttle unit (141) can include a roller (not shown) or a conveyor belt (not shown) that assists the stack (S) to move from the stack moving unit (113) to the upper end of the lifting shuttle unit (141), or assists the dump (D) to move from the upper end of the lifting shuttle unit (141) to the dump moving unit (131).

[0065] The method of moving and circulating the tray (T) by the input section (110), the output section (130), and the lifting shuttle section (141) is described as follows.

[0066] In the stack moving unit (113) of the input unit (110), a plurality of stacks (S) can be moved toward the lifting shuttle unit (141) of the transport unit (140). In the dump moving unit (131) of the discharge unit (130), a plurality of dumps (D) can be moved from the lifting shuttle unit (141) of the transport unit (140). The principle by which the stacks (S) and dumps (D) are moved in the stack moving unit (113) and the dump moving unit (131) is not particularly limited. In one embodiment, the stack moving unit (113) and the dump moving unit (131) can be driven by a conveyor belt and a pair of rollers.

[0067] A stack (S) being moved in the stack moving unit (113) can be moved to the top of the lifting shuttle unit (141) by the driving force of the stack moving unit (113). Additionally, a dump (D) that was mounted on the top of the lifting shuttle unit (141) can be moved from the top of the lifting shuttle unit (141) to the dump moving unit (131) by the driving force of the aforementioned moving assist component on the top of the lifting shuttle unit (141) and the dump moving unit (131).

[0068] A tray (T) moving in the form of a stack (S) from the input section (110) is moved to the pickup section (120) by the lifting shuttle section (141), and an empty tray (E) that has been picked up can be moved to the discharge section (130) by the lifting shuttle section (141) in the form of a dump (D). That is, a method in which the tray (T) is circulated by the input section (110), the discharge section (130), and the lifting shuttle section (141) can be applied. The operating efficiency of the stack tray feeder (100) can be improved, such as by simplifying the circulation structure and shortening the time for supplying parts (P).

[0069] The input section (110) and the discharge section (130) can be interchanged. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the input section (110) may be positioned at the bottom of the discharge section (130), or conversely, the input section (110) may be positioned at the top of the discharge section (130) (not shown). In other words, the roles or functions of the input section (110) and the discharge section (130) can be interchanged. By simply changing the movement direction of the stack moving section (113) and the dump moving section (131), the stack (S) can be fed through the discharge section (130), and the dump (D) can be discharged through the input section (110). Accordingly, the positional restrictions of the components are reduced, thereby improving the degree of design freedom of the stack tray feeder (100). In addition, the usability of the stack tray feeder (100) can be increased by changing the function according to the situation.

[0070] The first horizontal moving unit (143) can move the tray (T) horizontally between the lifting shuttle unit (141) and the first pickup unit (121) to be described later, specifically, between the lifting shuttle unit (141) and the first vertical moving unit (147) to be described later. The first horizontal moving unit (143) can separate one tray (T) from the stack (S) mounted on the upper part of the lifting shuttle unit (141) and then move the separated tray (T) horizontally. In one embodiment, the first horizontal moving unit (143) can be driven by a conveyor belt and a pair of rollers. However, the driving principle of the first horizontal moving unit (143) is not limited thereto.

[0071] The second horizontal moving unit (145) can move the tray (T) horizontally between the lifting shuttle unit (141) and the second pickup unit (123) to be described later, specifically, between the lifting shuttle unit (141) and the second vertical moving unit (149) to be described later. The second horizontal moving unit (145) can separate one tray (T) from the stack (S) mounted on the upper part of the lifting shuttle unit (141) and then move the separated tray (T) horizontally. In one embodiment, the second horizontal moving unit (145) can be driven by a conveyor belt and a pair of rollers. However, the driving principle of the second horizontal moving unit (145) is not limited thereto.

[0072] The first vertical moving unit (147) can vertically move the tray (T) between the first horizontal moving unit (143) and the first pickup unit (121). In one embodiment, the first vertical moving unit (147) can rise or fall along a guide rail. However, the driving principle of the first vertical moving unit (147) is not limited thereto.

[0073] The second vertical moving unit (149) can vertically move the tray (T) between the second horizontal moving unit (145) and the second pickup unit (123). In one embodiment, the second vertical moving unit (149) can rise or fall along a guide rail. However, the driving principle of the second vertical moving unit (149) is not limited thereto.

[0074] The first horizontal movement unit (143) and the first vertical movement unit (147) may correspond to the first pickup unit (121), and the second horizontal movement unit (145) and the second vertical movement unit (149) may correspond to the second pickup unit (123). Components of the transport unit (140) may be added according to the number of pickup units (120). That is, if the pickup unit (120) additionally includes a third pickup unit (not shown), the transport unit (140) may additionally include a third horizontal movement unit (not shown) and a third vertical movement unit (not shown) corresponding thereto.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 3, the transport unit (140) can transport the tray (T) located in the input unit (110) to the pickup unit (120) (C1). Specifically, referring to FIG. 4, the lifting shuttle unit (141) can rise with the stack (S) placed on the top so that the first horizontal moving unit (143) can take the tray (T) stacked on the top of the stack (S). The first horizontal moving unit (143) can horizontally move the tray (T) to the first vertical moving unit (147). The first vertical moving unit (147) can vertically transport the tray (T) to the height of the first pickup unit (121) and position it in the first pickup unit (121).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, the lifting shuttle unit (141) can rise with the stack (S) placed on the top so that the second horizontal moving unit (145) can take the tray (T) stacked on the top of the stack (S). The second horizontal moving unit (145) can horizontally move the tray (T) to the second vertical moving unit (149). The second vertical moving unit (149) can vertically transport the tray (T) to the height of the second pickup unit (123) and position it on the second pickup unit (123).

[0077] Referring to FIG. 3, the transport unit (140) can transport an empty tray (E) located in the pickup unit (120) to the discharge unit (130) (C2). Specifically, referring to FIG. 6, the empty tray (E) can be moved from the first pickup unit (121) to the dump moving unit (131) via the first vertical moving unit (147), the first horizontal moving unit (143), and the lifting shuttle unit (141).

[0078] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a process of transferring an unused tray (N) from a second pickup unit (123) to a temporary storage unit (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing schematically showing a temporary storage unit (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an unused tray (N) entering and exiting from a temporary storage unit (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a process of transferring an unused tray (N) from a temporary storage unit (150) to a first pickup unit (121) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a process of transferring an empty tray (E) from a temporary storage unit (150) to a discharge unit (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] The transport unit (140), referring to FIG. 3, can transport the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120) to the temporary storage unit (150) to be described later (C3). In one embodiment, the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120) can include an unused tray (N) in which some parts remain because they have not been completely picked up. In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the unused tray (N) can pass through the second vertical moving unit (149) and the second horizontal moving unit (145) in the second pickup unit (123) and be settled on the upper end of the lifting shuttle unit (141). The lifting shuttle unit (141) can ascend with the unused tray (N) placed on the upper end to transport the unused tray (N) to the temporary storage unit (150).

[0080] The temporary storage unit (150) can hold trays (T) transferred from the pickup unit (120). In one embodiment, the trays (T) transferred from the pickup unit (120) can include unused trays (N) in which parts (P) still remain due to a stop in pickup. Specifically, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, unused trays (N) transferred by the lifting shuttle unit (141) can be temporarily stored in the temporary storage unit (150). The temporary storage unit (150) can include an entry / exit unit (151), a work unit (153), a status check unit (155), and a storage unit (157).

[0081] Referring to FIG. 9, the entry / exit (151) can be used to transport a tray (T) to or from the outside. In one embodiment, a worker can manually transport a tray (T) located in the first pickup unit (121) or the second pickup unit (123) and transport it into a temporary storage unit (150) through the entry / exit (151). In another embodiment, a worker can manually transport a tray (T) remaining in the temporary storage unit (150) to the outside through the entry / exit (151). The entry / exit (151) can be opened and closed. The entry / exit (151) can be opened when transporting or transporting a tray (T).

[0082] As shown in Fig. 8, the work section (153) can be equipped with a tray (T). In one embodiment, the worker can visually inspect the tray (T) or check its status while the tray (T) is equipped on the work section (153). In one embodiment, the work section (153) can include a conveyor belt and rollers so that the tray (T) can smoothly move from the lift shuttle section (141) to the work section (153), or from the work section (153) to the lift shuttle section (141).

[0083] The work section (153) can be positioned on one side of the access section (151). That is, the worker can bring in a tray (T) from the outside through the access section (151) and place it on the work section (153), or take out a tray (T) placed on the work section (153) to the outside through the access section (151).

[0084] The status confirmation unit (155) can determine the current status information of the tray (T) placed on the work unit (153). In one embodiment, the current status information of the tray (T) may include the number of parts (P) remaining on the tray (T). That is, the status confirmation unit (155) can determine whether the tray (T) is an unused tray (N) with parts (P) still remaining, or an empty tray (E) with all parts (P) picked up. In another embodiment, the current status information of the tray (T) may include whether the parts (P) remaining on the tray (T) are abnormal.

[0085] In one embodiment, the status confirmation unit (155) may be arranged at the top of the work unit (153), as shown in FIG. 8. The status confirmation unit (155) may include a vision camera. Accordingly, the status confirmation unit (155) may visually determine the current status information of the tray (T) placed on the work unit (153). In another embodiment, the status confirmation unit (155) may include a pressure measurement unit and may be arranged at the bottom of the work unit (153). Accordingly, the status confirmation unit (155) may determine the current status information of the tray (T) placed on the work unit (153) by measuring the load of the tray (T).

[0086] The status confirmation unit (155) can transmit the current status information of the identified tray (T) to the control unit (160) described later. That is, the control unit (160) can receive information from the status confirmation unit (155) as to whether the tray (T) placed on the work unit (153) is an unused tray (N) or an empty tray (E), and determine whether to transfer the tray (T) to the pickup unit (120) or the discharge unit (130).

[0087] The storage unit (157) can accommodate a plurality of trays (T). The storage unit (157) can be arranged on one side of the work unit (153). The trays (T) can be transported from the work unit (153) to the storage unit (157), or can be transported from the storage unit (157) to the work unit (153). The storage unit (157) can improve the efficiency of the temporary storage unit (150) when there are a plurality of trays (T) that need to be temporarily stored or a plurality of trays (T) that require status check.

[0088] The effects of the temporary storage unit (150) are as follows. In the event that the pickup operation is interrupted for any reason, including when the pickup operation at the pickup unit (120) is interrupted by the worker's will, the remaining parts (P) can be easily retrieved or stored by allowing the tray (T) currently being worked on to remain there for a while before being directly transferred to the discharge unit (130). Accordingly, it is easy to determine the quantity of parts (P). In addition, in the event that there is a problem with the tray (T) or an abnormality with the parts (P) loaded on the tray (T), the tray (T) can be moved to the temporary storage unit (150) for inspection without interrupting the pickup operation, thereby ensuring a smooth process and preventing unnecessary waste of time, thereby increasing production efficiency.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 3, the transport unit (140) can transport the tray (T) placed in the temporary storage unit (150) to the pickup unit (120) (C4). In one embodiment, the tray (T) placed in the temporary storage unit (150) can include an unused tray (N). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 10, the unused tray (N) can be seated on the upper part of the lifting shuttle unit (141) in the temporary storage unit (150). The lifting shuttle unit (141) can descend with the unused tray (N) placed on the upper part to transfer the unused tray (N) to the first vertical moving unit (147). The first horizontal moving unit (143) can horizontally move the unused tray (N) to the first vertical moving unit (147). The first vertical moving unit (147) can vertically transport the unused tray (N) to the height of the first pickup unit (121) and position it in the first pickup unit (121).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 3, the transport unit (140) can transport a tray (T) mounted in the temporary storage unit (150) to the discharge unit (130) (C5). In one embodiment, the tray (T) mounted in the temporary storage unit (150) may include an empty tray (E). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 11, the empty tray (E) may be placed on the top of the lifting shuttle unit (141) from the temporary storage unit (150). The lifting shuttle unit (141) may be lowered with the empty tray (E) mounted on its top and then the empty tray (E) may be placed on the third dump (D3) section.

[0091] The control unit (160) can control the overall operation of the stack tray feeder (100). The control unit (160) can control the movement of the tray (T). Specifically, the control unit (160) can control the operation of each component included in the transport unit (140) so that the tray (T) moves. The control unit (160) can control the movement of the stack (S) in the input unit (110). The control unit (160) can control the movement of the dump (D) in the discharge unit (130). The control unit (160) can receive various information from other components of the stack tray feeder (100) and control the movement of the tray (T) in accordance with the information.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 3, the communication unit (170) can receive first information (F1) regarding a tray (T) located in a pickup unit (120) from a mounting device (M). The mounting device (M) refers to a device that picks up a component (P) from the pickup unit (120). The first information (F1) can include whether a component (P) remains in the tray (T).

[0093] In one embodiment, the mounting equipment (M) can determine the number of parts (P) picked up from one tray (T) located in the pickup section (120). Since the total number of parts (P) loaded on one tray (T) is fixed, if the number of picks is known, it is possible to determine whether parts (P) remain on the tray (T) and the number of parts (P) remaining on the tray (T).

[0094] The mounting device (M) and the communication unit (170) can exchange first information (F1) wired or wirelessly. The specific transmission and reception principles of the first information (F1) between the mounting device (M) and the communication unit (170) are not particularly limited. In one embodiment, the mounting device (M) and the communication unit (170) can be applied with any technology that enables wireless communication over short distances, such as Bluetooth.

[0095] The control unit (160) can receive the first information (F1) from the communication unit (170) and determine whether there are parts (P) remaining in the tray (T). If the determination result shows that there are parts (P) remaining in the tray (T), the tray (T) can be controlled to be moved to the temporary storage unit (150). That is, if the tray (T) is determined to be an unused tray (N) with parts (P) remaining, the tray (T) can be controlled to be transferred (C3) from the pickup unit (120) to the temporary storage unit (150). On the other hand, if there are no parts (P) remaining in the tray (T), the tray (T) can be controlled to be moved to the discharge unit (130). That is, if the tray (T) is determined to be an empty tray (E) with all parts (P) used up, the tray (T) can be controlled to be transferred (C2) from the pickup unit (120) to the discharge unit (130).

[0096] As the communication unit (170) receives the first information (F1) from the mounting equipment (M), the tray (T) can be automatically transported depending on whether there is a component (P) remaining in the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120), thereby enhancing the convenience of the operator.

[0097] By distinguishing between unused trays (T) with remaining parts (P) and empty trays (T) with no remaining parts (P), and transferring the unused trays (T) to a temporary storage unit (150), it is easy to recover the remaining parts (P), and it is also easy to determine the quantity of parts (P).

[0098] In one embodiment, the pickup unit (120) may transmit second information (F2) to the control unit (160). The second information (F2) may include information regarding whether the pickup operation has been stopped in the pickup unit (120). When the control unit (160) receives the second information (F2) regarding whether the operation has been stopped from the pickup unit (120), it may control the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120) to be moved to the temporary storage unit (150).

[0099] In one embodiment, when work is stopped in the pickup unit (120), it may be when there is a problem with the part (P) loaded on the tray (T). In another embodiment, it may be when the part (P) is not picked up due to a defect in the tray (T). If work is stopped in the middle of the work for any reason, the pickup unit (120) can notify the control unit (160) of this. In this case, it is necessary to check the quantity of the part (P) remaining in the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120), or to check whether there is a problem with the tray (T) itself or with the part (P) remaining in the tray (T). Accordingly, in this case, the control unit (160) can control the tray (T) to be transferred (C3) from the pickup unit (120) to the temporary storage unit (150).

[0100] When the work of the pickup unit (120) is interrupted, determining the quantity of parts (P) is an important issue. Therefore, when work is interrupted, the tray (T) currently located in the pickup unit (120) is automatically transferred to the temporary storage unit (150), making it easy to determine the quantity of parts (P). In addition, by moving a tray (T) that may have a problem to the temporary storage unit (150) and then immediately resuming work, work is prevented from being interrupted while inspecting the tray (T), thereby ensuring a smooth process and saving unnecessary time and costs.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 3, the operation unit (180) can receive a command signal (O) from a worker. The command signal (O) from the worker can include, for example, starting, stopping, and resuming a pickup operation. The operation unit (180) can transmit the command signal (O) from the worker to the control unit. The method of receiving the command signal (O) from the worker in the operation unit (180) is not particularly limited. In one embodiment, the operation unit (180) can include a plurality of operation buttons. In another embodiment, the operation unit (180) can include a display capable of inputting by touch.

[0102] The control unit (160) may control the tray (T) located in the pickup unit (120) to move to the temporary storage unit (150) based on the operator's command signal (O) received from the operation unit (180), or may control the tray (T) located in the temporary storage unit (150) to move to the pickup unit (120) or the discharge unit (130). In one embodiment, if the operator's command signal (O) is to stop work, the tray (T) that was being worked on in the pickup unit (120) may have parts (P) remaining therein, so it may be transferred to the temporary storage unit (150).

[0103] In another embodiment, the operator's command signal (O) may include the transport destination of the tray (T) staying in the temporary storage unit (150). The operator can directly check the status of the tray (T) staying in the temporary storage unit (150). If the check result shows that the tray (T) is an unused tray (N), it needs to be transported again to the pickup unit (120). Therefore, in this case, the operator's command signal (O) may include a signal for commanding the transport destination of the tray (T) currently staying in the temporary storage unit (150) to the pickup unit (120). If the check result shows that the tray (T) is an empty tray (E), the operator's command signal (O) may include a signal for commanding the transport destination of the tray (T) currently staying in the temporary storage unit (150) to the discharge unit (130).

[0104] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely examples. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible based on the embodiments described herein. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined based on the appended claims.

[0105] Specific technical details described in the embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the technical scope of the embodiments. In order to describe the invention concisely and clearly, descriptions of conventional general techniques and configurations may be omitted. In addition, the connection or absence of connection between the lines of components illustrated in the drawings are merely examples of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and in an actual device, they may be expressed as various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections that are replaceable or additional. In addition, if there is no specific mention such as "essential" or "important," it may not be a component absolutely necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0106] The terms "above" and "above" or similar designators used in the description and claims of the invention can refer to both the singular and the plural, unless specifically limited. In addition, when a range is described in an embodiment, it is intended that the invention includes the application of individual values ​​belonging to the range (unless otherwise stated), and it is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the description of the invention. In addition, unless the order of steps constituting a method according to an embodiment is explicitly stated or stated to the contrary, the steps can be performed in any appropriate order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., "for example," etc.) in the embodiments is merely for the purpose of describing the embodiments in more detail, and the scope of the embodiments is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms, unless otherwise limited by the claims. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, combinations, and variations can be configured according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0107] The present invention can be used in an industry related to stack tray feeders.

Claims

1. Input section where stacked trays are input; A pickup unit in which a mounting device picks up parts loaded on the above tray; A discharge section through which the stacked trays are discharged; A temporary storage area where the tray transferred from the above pickup unit stays; A transport unit for transporting the above tray to a predetermined position; and A stack tray feeder comprising: a control unit that controls the movement of the above tray.

2. In paragraph 1, In the input section, a plurality of stacks formed by stacking a plurality of trays loaded with parts are moved toward the transport section. A stack tray feeder in which a plurality of dumps formed by stacking a plurality of empty trays are moved from the transport section in the discharge section.

3. In paragraph 2, A stack tray feeder in which the input section and the discharge section are interchangeable.

4. In paragraph 2, The above input section A stack tray feeder comprising: a tray input opening that is automatically exposed to the outside when the stack that was mounted moves.

5. In paragraph 2, The above discharge part A stack tray feeder comprising: a tray outlet that is automatically exposed to the outside when the above dump is mounted.

6. In paragraph 1, The above pickup unit comprises a plurality of stack tray feeders.

7. In paragraph 1, The above temporary storage unit A stack tray feeder comprising: an access section capable of taking the tray out to the outside or bringing it in from the outside.

8. In paragraph 1, The above temporary storage unit A stack tray feeder comprising a working section on which the above tray is mounted.

9. In paragraph 8, The above temporary storage unit A stack tray feeder comprising: a status checking unit for identifying current status information of the tray mounted on the above-mentioned work unit.

10. In paragraph 1, The above temporary storage unit A stack tray feeder comprising a storage unit that accommodates a plurality of the above trays.

11. In paragraph 1, The above transport section A stack tray feeder that transfers the tray located in the pickup section to the temporary storage section or transfers the tray placed in the temporary storage section to the pickup section.

12. In paragraph 1, A stack tray feeder further comprising a communication unit for receiving first information about a tray located in the pickup unit from the mounting equipment.

13. In paragraph 12, The above first information is A stack tray feeder, including whether the above part remains on the above tray.

14. In paragraph 12, The above control unit By receiving the first information from the communication unit, it is possible to determine whether there are any parts left in the tray, If the above part remains in the above tray, the tray is controlled to be moved to the temporary storage unit, A stack tray feeder that controls the tray to move to the discharge unit when there are no parts left on the tray.

15. In paragraph 1, The above control unit A stack tray feeder that controls the tray located in the pickup unit to be moved to the temporary storage unit when receiving second information on whether work is stopped from the pickup unit.

16. In paragraph 1, It further includes an operating unit for receiving commands from the operator; The above control unit A stack tray feeder that controls the tray located in the pickup section to move to the temporary storage section based on the operator's command signal received from the operation section, or controls the tray located in the temporary storage section to move to the pickup section or the discharge section.

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