Production member management system

Abstract

This production member management system comprises: a storage unit that stores association data that is determined by the execution of a preparation operation for preparing a production member to be used in a production line for producing a substrate product by performing a predetermined operation on a substrate, accommodating the production member in an accommodation rack, and loading the accommodation rack on a transport cart, the association data associating identification information of the production member to be prepared, identification information of the accommodation rack, and identification information of the transport cart; and a transport instruction unit that instructs a transport operation for transporting the production member by moving the transport cart prepared and placed in a cart placement site to the production line on the basis of a production plan or production progress status of the substrate product and the association data.

Description

Production Member Management System

[0001] This specification relates to a production member management system that manages the preparation and conveyance of production members used in a production line for substrate products, etc.

[0002] Technologies for mass-producing substrate products by performing substrate work on substrates with circuit patterns formed thereon have become widespread. Also, it has become common to arrange a plurality of types of substrate work machines side by side to form a production line for substrate products. In this production line, as production progresses, replenishment work for replenishing the consumable members consumed by the substrate work machines is performed. Further, when changing the variety of substrate products, setup replacement work for replacing the tool members detachably equipped on the substrate work machines and the above-described consumable members is performed. In recent years, in order to promote the automation and labor saving of production lines, there has been a demand to convey production members such as consumable members and tool members to the production line using an automated guided vehicle (AGV) or the like. One technical example related to the conveyance of this type of production member is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] In the material replenishment support device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a component reel is loaded into the reel storage section of an automated guided vehicle by a payout operator, and then when a button is operated by the payout operator, the automated guided vehicle starts moving toward the manufacturing equipment (see paragraphs 0023, 0033). Further, when the automated guided vehicle arrives at the manufacturing equipment, the component reel is taken out by the replenishment operator and replenished to the manufacturing equipment. According to this, it is said that efficient material replenishment can be appropriately supported.

[0004] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019-61310

[0005] By the way, in Patent Document 1, a component reel is exemplified as a production member, but in order to promote automation, it is preferable to expand the types of production members to be conveyed. In addition, the substrate work machines that require a plurality of types of production members are of a plurality of types, and moreover, the timing when a plurality of types of production members are required is not necessarily constant. Therefore, for further automation of the production line of substrate products, it is necessary to establish a management technique that can manage to accurately prepare production members and accurately convey them to the substrate work machines that are required at an appropriate timing.

[0006] Therefore, the problem to be addressed in this specification is to provide a production material management system that can properly manage production materials used in the production line of substrate products.

[0007] This specification discloses a production material management system comprising: a storage unit that stores linked data, which is determined by performing preparatory work to prepare production materials used in a production line for producing circuit board products by performing predetermined work on a circuit board, storing them in a storage rack, and further loading the storage rack onto a transport cart, and which links identification information of the production materials to be prepared, identification information of the storage rack, and identification information of the transport cart; and a transport instruction unit that instructs a transport operation to move the transport cart, which has been prepared and placed in a cart storage area, to the production line and transport the production materials, based on the production plan or production progress status of the circuit board product and the linked data.

[0008] Furthermore, in this specification, the technical concept is as follows: in claim 4 of the original application, "the production material management system described in claim 1" is changed to "the production material management system described in any one of claims 1-3"; in claim 8 of the original application, "the production material management system described in claim 6" is changed to "the production material management system described in claim 6 or 7"; in claim 9 of the original application, "the production material management system described in claim 6" is changed to "the production material management system described in any one of claims 6-8"; in claim 11 of the original application, "the production material management system described in claim 9" is changed to "the production material management system described in claim 9 or 10"; and in claim 12 of the original application, "the production material management system described in claim 9" is changed to "any one of claims 9-11 The present invention discloses the following technical ideas: changing "production material management system described in any one of the claims" to "production material management system described in any one of the claims 9-14" in claim 15 of the original application; changing "production material management system described in claim 9" to "production material management system described in any one of the claims 9-15" in claim 16 of the original application; changing "production material management system described in claim 6" to "production material management system described in any one of the claims 6-16" in claim 17 of the original application; and changing "production material management system described in claim 6" to "production material management system described in any one of the claims 6-19" in claim 20 of the original application.

[0009] According to the disclosed production material management system, the storage unit can store the identification information of each prepared production material, storage rack, and transport cart, and the transport instruction unit can instruct the transport operation of production materials at the appropriate timing based on the production plan or production progress of the substrate product, thereby enabling proper management of production materials.

[0010] This is a schematic plan view of a factory showing an example configuration of a production material management system, a production line for substrate products, and a preparation area in an embodiment. This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration related to the transport of screen masks. This is a perspective view showing the configuration shown in Figure 2 separated. This is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration related to the transport of tape feeders. This is a perspective view showing the configuration shown in Figure 4 separated. This is a diagram of the operation flow explaining the operation of the production material management system. This is a schematic plan view of a factory showing an example configuration of a modified production material management system and a production line for substrate products.

[0011] 1. Production Line 9 for PCB Products First, the production line 9 for PCB products to which the production material management system 1 of this embodiment is applied will be explained with reference to Figure 1. Production line 9 produces PCB products by performing predetermined operations on PCBs. In the configuration example shown in Figure 1, two production lines 9 are provided in the factory. Production line 9 is composed of multiple types of PCB work machines. For example, production line 9 is composed of a solder printing machine 91, a printing inspection machine 92, two component mounting machines (93, 94), a PCB inspection machine 95, and a reflow machine 96 arranged in a row. PCBs that have completed predetermined operations at each PCB work machine are sequentially transported to the downstream PCB work machine.

[0012] Production line 9 is equipped with a line management system 97 configured using a computer. The line management system 97 manages the work performed by production line 9 based on the production plan for the circuit board products, and also manages the production progress of the circuit board products. Specifically, the line management system 97 manages the operating status of multiple types of circuit board handling machines. The number of lines in production line 9 within the factory may be one line or three or more lines. Furthermore, the line configuration of production line 9 (types and number of circuit board handling machines) may be other than those described above.

[0013] A solder printing machine 91, positioned upstream of the line, prints solder paste onto a substrate using a detachably mounted screen mask 33 (see Figure 3). The screen mask 33 is manufactured for each type of substrate product. The screen mask 33 is a thin film material with printing openings provided to correspond to the arrangement of multiple lands (electrodes) on the substrate. The screen mask 33 and solder paste are examples of production materials used in a production line. The screen mask 33 is also an example of an instrument component that is detachably mounted on a substrate work machine. On the other hand, solder paste and a solder container containing the solder paste are examples of consumable materials consumed by a substrate work machine. In this specification, the term "production materials" is used to encompass instrument components and consumable materials.

[0014] The solder printing machine 91 may be equipped with a squeegee and a substrate support member that can be detachably attached to accommodate multiple types of substrates. The squeegee moves while in contact with the upper surface of the screen mask 33, thereby moving the solder paste and performing printing. The substrate support member supports the substrate by pushing it up relative to the screen mask 33, and brings the substrate into close contact with the lower surface of the screen mask 33. The squeegee and the substrate support member correspond to the production members and the equipment members described above. The printing inspection machine 92 is positioned downstream of the solder printing machine 91. The printing inspection machine 92 inspects the printing condition by taking an image of the solder paste printed on the substrate with an inspection camera.

[0015] Two component mounting machines (93, 94) are positioned downstream of the printing inspection machine 92. The component mounting machines (93, 94) mount components onto the solder paste printed on the circuit board. Each component mounting machine (93, 94) includes a component feeder for supplying components, a component mounting tool for mounting components, and a mounting head for holding the component mounting tool. The component feeder is detachably fitted with a component container that holds multiple components. When components are consumed and a component shortage occurs, there are two replenishment methods: one involves replacing the component container, and the other involves replacing the entire component feeder.

[0016] In this embodiment, the component mounting machines (93, 94) use a tape feeder 35 (see Figure 4-5) as a component feeder. The tape feeder 35 is detachably loaded with a reel 36 around which a carrier tape containing multiple components is wound. When a component runs out in the component mounting machines (93, 94), a replenishment method is used in which the entire tape feeder 35 is replaced. The tape feeder 35 and the reel 36 correspond to the production components described above. Furthermore, the tape feeder 35 corresponds to the equipment components described above, and the reel 36 corresponds to the consumption components described above. Note that the component mounting machines (93, 94) may also use a tray feeder to which a tray (component container) is detachably attached, or a stick feeder to which a stick (component container) is detachably attached.

[0017] The component mounting machines (93, 94) may be equipped with detachable component mounting tools and mounting heads to accommodate multiple types of substrates. Component mounting tools include suction nozzles that use negative pressure to pick up components and chucks that grip components. The mounting head holds the component mounting tools and is driven by an X-Y drive mechanism to move in two horizontal directions. The component mounting tools and mounting head correspond to the production components and the equipment components described above.

[0018] The circuit board inspection machine 95 is located downstream of the component mounting machine 94. The circuit board inspection machine 95 uses an inspection camera to photograph the components mounted on the circuit board and inspects their mounting condition. The reflow machine 96 is located downstream of the circuit board inspection machine 95. The reflow machine 96 ensures that the soldering condition of the components is secure by heating and cooling the solder paste.

[0019] When changing the type of PCB product produced on production line 9, the solder printing machine 91 needs to replace the screen mask 33. Also, the component mounting machines (93, 94) need to replace multiple tape feeders 35. Furthermore, the squeegee and PCB support members may be replaced in the solder printing machine 91, and the component mounting tools and mounting heads may be replaced in the component mounting machines (93, 94). Meanwhile, as production of PCB products progresses on production line 9, the solder printing machine 91 needs to replenish the solder container at the appropriate time. Also, the component mounting machines (93, 94) need to replace the tape feeders 35 at the appropriate time to replenish components.

[0020] 2. Preparation Area 8 A preparation area 8 is provided within the factory for the convenience of workers who perform preparation work for production materials used in the two production lines 9. Preparation work includes preparing the necessary production materials, storing the production materials in storage racks, and loading the storage racks onto transport carts, as will be explained in detail later. A workbench 81, a cart storage area, and a control device 2 are arranged within the preparation area 8. The control device 2 may be located outside the preparation area 8.

[0021] The following explanation will detail the case where the production components subject to preparation work and transport operations are of three types: a screen mask 33, a tape feeder 35, and a reel 36. Each of the screen mask 33, tape feeder 35, and reel 36 has identification information set and displays. As the displayed identification information, a barcode can be exemplified, but other forms such as QR codes (registered trademark), strings of characters, and symbols may also be used. The identification information consists of a part that identifies the type of production component (for example, letters indicating the type) and a part that identifies the individual (for example, a serial number).

[0022] The workbench 81 is where the worker performs preparation work. The workbench 81 is equipped with a handheld code reader 82. The code reader 82 is a form of reading unit that reads identification information displayed on production materials. At the workbench 81, the worker performs mask preparation work, which involves placing multiple screen masks 33 into the mask storage rack 43 (see Figure 3). During the mask preparation work, the worker can use the code reader 82 to read the identification information displayed on the screen masks 33 and the identification information displayed on the mask storage rack 43. This reading operation makes it possible to link the identification information of the screen masks 33 with the identification information of the mask storage rack 43.

[0023] Furthermore, at the workbench 81, the worker loads reels 36 into the tape feeder 35 and then places multiple tape feeders 35 with reels loaded into the feeder storage rack 45 (see Figure 4-5) to perform feeder preparation work. During the feeder preparation work, the worker can use a code reader 82 to read the identification information displayed on the tape feeder 35, the identification information displayed on the reels 36, and the identification information displayed on the feeder storage rack 45. This reading operation makes it possible to link the identification information of the tape feeder 35, the identification information of the reels 36, and the identification information of the feeder storage rack 45.

[0024] Multiple cart storage areas are provided to accommodate any of several transport carts. The transport carts, loaded with storage racks, move between the cart storage area and the production line 9. In the example shown in Figure 1, a mask cart storage area 83 and a feeder cart storage area 85 are provided inside the preparation area 8. The cart storage areas may also be provided outside the preparation area 8. A mask transport cart 53 is movably placed in the mask cart storage area 83. A feeder transport cart 55 is movably placed in the feeder cart storage area 85. Since the mask transport cart 53 is larger than the feeder transport cart 55, the mask cart storage area 83 is partitioned more widely than the feeder cart storage area 85.

[0025] Each of the mask cart storage areas 83 and the feeder cart storage areas 85 is assigned and displayed identification information. This identification information consists of a part that identifies the type of cart storage area and a part that identifies the location of the cart storage area. For example, the identification information consists of three characters: "P" indicating a cart storage area, "M" indicating a mask storage area or "F" indicating a feeder storage area, and a number indicating the location of the cart storage area. In other words, the identification information for multiple mask cart storage areas 83 is set as PM1, PM2, ..., and the identification information for multiple feeder cart storage areas 85 is set as PF1, PF2, .... The identification information is displayed, for example, using a signboard or a panel attached to a wall.

[0026] Furthermore, identification information is set and displayed on each of the mask transport carts 53 and feeder transport carts 55. This identification information consists of a part that identifies the type of transport cart and a part that identifies the individual transport cart. For example, the identification information consists of three characters: "C" indicating a transport cart, "M" indicating a mask cart or "F" indicating a feeder cart, and a number that identifies the individual transport cart. In other words, the identification information for multiple mask transport carts 53 is set as CM1, CM2, ..., and the identification information for multiple feeder transport carts 55 is set as CF1, CF2, .... The identification information is displayed, for example, by attaching barcode labels 537 (see Figure 3) and barcode labels 557 (see Figure 5) to the transport carts.

[0027] Furthermore, a handheld code reader 86, which corresponds to a reading unit, is provided at both the mask cart storage area 83 and the feeder cart storage area 85. The operator can use the code reader 86 to read the identification information displayed on the cart storage area and the identification information displayed on the transport cart. This reading operation makes it possible to link the identification information of the cart storage area with the identification information of the transport cart.

[0028] The mask transport cart 53 carries a mask storage rack 43 containing multiple screen masks 33 and moves between the mask cart storage area 83 and the solder printing machine 91 on the production line 9. The feeder transport cart 55 carries a feeder storage rack 45 containing multiple tape feeders 35 and moves between the feeder cart storage area 85 and the component mounting machines (93, 94) on the production line 9. The movement of the mask transport cart 53 and the feeder transport cart 55 is performed by an automated vehicle 6. In other words, the automated vehicle 6 is used for both the mask transport cart 53 and the feeder transport cart 55, and travels with the transport carts detachably connected to it. The movement of the mask transport cart 53 and the feeder transport cart 55 can also be performed by an operator pushing or pulling.

[0029] In the configuration example shown in Figure 1, one mask cart storage area 83 and three feeder cart storage areas 85 are partitioned within the preparation area 8. The three feeder cart storage areas 85 are referred to as the first (lower) in Figure 1, the second (center), and the third (upper). In addition, one mask transport cart 53, three feeder transport carts 55, and three automated guided vehicles 6 are used. However, this is not limited to this configuration, and the number of cart storage areas, as well as the number of transport carts and automated guided vehicles 6, can be changed according to the number of production lines 9 and the line configuration within the factory.

[0030] In the situation shown in Figure 1, the first autonomous vehicle 6 is stopped at the mask cart storage area 83 with the mask transport cart 53 attached. The second autonomous vehicle 6 is located on the travel path 88 with the first feeder transport cart 55 attached and is traveling towards the parts mounting machine 93. The third autonomous vehicle 6 is stopped at the third feeder cart storage area 85 with the third feeder transport cart 55 attached. The second feeder transport cart 55 is placed alone in the second feeder cart storage area 85. The first feeder cart storage area 85 is empty.

[0031] The control device 2 is configured using a computer. The control device 2 has an input unit 21 such as a keyboard or touch panel that accepts commands, settings, and selection operations from the operator. The control device 2 acquires identification information read by the code reader 82 and the code reader 86. Therefore, the code reader 82 and the code reader 86 are different forms of the input unit 21. The control device 2 also has a display unit 22 such as a liquid crystal display that displays various information to the operator. In a configuration where the control device 2 is located outside the preparation area 8, it is preferable that at least the input unit 21 and the display unit 22 are located within the preparation area 8 and remotely controlled. Furthermore, the control device 2 has a memory 23 that stores various information. The control device 2 is communicated to two line control devices 97. As will be described later, the control device 2 is a major component of the production material management system 1.

[0032] 3. Configuration for Transporting the Screen Mask 33 Next, the configuration for transporting the screen mask 33 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3. As mentioned above, a mask storage rack 43, a mask transport cart 53, and an automated vehicle 6 are used for transporting the screen mask 33. The front, back, left, and right directions are defined as shown by the arrows in the upper right of Figure 2. The mask storage rack 43, the mask transport cart 53, and the automated vehicle 6 are configured to be roughly symmetrical with respect to a center line extending in the front-rear direction.

[0033] The mask storage rack 43 is formed in a roughly rectangular box shape, with a width dimension in the left-right direction and a depth dimension in the front-back direction that are large in proportion to its height dimension. The mask storage rack 43 has a plurality of storage slots 431 arranged in the vertical direction and a rear door 432. Each of the plurality of storage slots 431 is formed using a pair of left and right rail members that are separated and arranged on the left and right sides and extend in the front-back direction. The rear door 432 swings between a closed state where it is upright with its lower edge as the pivot point (see Figure 2) and an open state where it is tilted backward (see Figure 3). The worker can tilt the rear door 432 to the open state and insert and store the screen masks 33 from the rear into each of the plurality of storage slots 431.

[0034] The mask storage rack 43 is mounted at the rear of the solder printing machine 91 with its front opening. This allows the solder printing machine 91 to automatically exchange the screen mask 33 between the machine and the mask storage rack 43. Alternatively, the mask storage rack 43 may be transported closer to the solder printing machine 91, and the screen mask 33 may be replaced by an operator.

[0035] The mask transport cart 53 consists of a loading platform 531, a pair of left and right side sections 533, a pair of left and right legs 535, and three pairs of left and right wheels 536. The loading platform 531 is formed in a roughly rectangular shape in plan view and is positioned horizontally, separated from the floor. Multiple holding sections 532 for detachably holding the mask storage rack 43 are provided on the upper surface of the loading platform 531. A connecting section for detachably connecting the autonomous vehicle 6 is provided on the lower surface of the loading platform 531. A barcode label 537 indicating identification information is affixed to the rear surface of the loading platform 531. Each of the pair of left and right side sections 533 is formed in a vertically elongated rectangular shape and is provided so as to extend downward from the left and right edges of the loading platform 531. The space between the left and right side sections 533 on the underside of the loading platform 531 becomes an entry area into which the autonomous vehicle 6 enters.

[0036] A pair of left and right legs 535 extending in the front-to-back direction are provided on the underside of each side section 533. The left and right legs 535 are bent midway to narrow the distance between them at the front, for convenience when transferring the mask storage rack 43 to the soldering machine 91. Wheels 536 for travel are provided on the underside of each pair of left and right legs 535, near the front, near the center, and near the rear. A total of six wheels 536 are swivel wheels with variable direction of travel. At least one pair of left and right wheels 536 are provided with a foot-operated wheel locking mechanism (not shown).

[0037] The autonomous vehicle 6 consists of a body 61, multiple drive wheels 62, multiple driven wheels, a driving path detection unit, an operation panel 66, a coupling guide, and a wireless communication unit. The body 61 is generally a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is long in the front-to-rear direction, and is formed with rounded corners in a plan view. The body 61 is positioned horizontally, slightly separated from the floor. The multiple drive wheels 62 are arranged side by side in the left-to-right direction at an intermediate position in the front-to-rear direction on the underside of the body 61. Each of the drive wheels 62 is driven by a driving motor. The multiple drive wheels 62 are capable of rotating at different rotational speeds and in different directions from each other. The multiple driven wheels are positioned towards the front and rear on the underside of the body 61 and rotate in a driven manner, following the drive wheels 62. This allows the autonomous vehicle 6 to move forward, backward, and change direction freely.

[0038] The travel path detection unit is provided in a front-to-rear configuration at a front-to-rear position on the lower centerline of the vehicle body 61. The travel path detection unit detects the travel path 88 (see Figure 1) set on the floor. The travel path 88 is indicated, for example, by a display tape of a different color from the floor or by a magnetic tape having magnetism, and the travel path detection unit detects the display tape or magnetic tape. However, the automated driving vehicle 6 may employ a driving method in which it determines its current position by detecting the arrangement of surrounding objects, and then determines the travel path based on its current position and destination. The current position of the automated driving vehicle 6 on the travel path 88 is determined from the detection status of the travel path detection unit and the number of rotations of the drive wheels 62. The travel path 88 connects the mask cart storage area 83, the feeder cart storage area 85, the solder printing machine 91, and the component mounting machines (93, 94). It is preferable that the travel path 88 has a circular route, which improves the efficiency of the automated driving vehicle 6's operation.

[0039] An operation panel 66 and a coupling guide are provided on the upper part of the vehicle body 61. The operation panel 66 is located at the rear of the upper surface of the vehicle body 61 and is used for some manual operations of the automated driving vehicle 6. For example, the operation panel 66 is used for error clearing operations when the automated driving vehicle 6 stops due to an error, and for emergency stop operations of the automated driving vehicle 6. A code reader (not shown) is provided in front of the operation panel 66. The code reader reads the barcode label 537 displayed on the mask transport cart 53 during or after the coupling operation in which the automated driving vehicle 6 connects to the mask transport cart 53.

[0040] The coupling guides are positioned symmetrically on the upper surface of the vehicle body 61, slightly forward of the center in the left-right direction. When the autonomous vehicle 6 enters the entry area of ​​the mask transport cart 53 located in the mask cart storage area 83, the coupling guides perform their coupling function. Specifically, the coupling guides engage with the coupling portion on the underside of the cargo bed 531 of the mask transport cart 53. This allows the autonomous vehicle 6 to connect with the mask transport cart 53 and then tow it. Furthermore, when the autonomous vehicle 6 exits the entry area of ​​the mask transport cart 53, the engagement between the coupling guides and the coupling portion is automatically released.

[0041] The wireless communication unit is located on the vehicle body 61, and its position is not limited. The wireless communication unit communicates with the management device 2 via wireless communication WL (see Figure 1) to exchange various types of information. Specifically, the wireless communication unit receives transport operation commands from the management device 2. As a result, the automated vehicle 6 travels towards the commanded destination. The wireless communication unit also transmits the current position of the automated vehicle 6 and identification information read by the code reader to the management device 2.

[0042] The autonomous vehicle 6 connects to the mask transport cart 53 at the mask cart storage area 83 and travels to the solder printing machine 91 designated as its destination. The mask storage racks 43 that were loaded onto the mask transport cart 53 are then handed over to the solder printing machine 91. The mask transport cart 53 is then loaded with another mask storage rack 43 that has finished being used at the solder printing machine 91, or it becomes empty.

[0043] After that, the autonomous vehicle 6 travels to the mask cart storage area 83. Further, the autonomous vehicle 6 performs a detachment operation of exiting behind the mask transport cart 53 and releasing the connection. As a result, the autonomous vehicle 6 is in a state where it can connect the feeder transport cart 55 and can also connect the mask transport cart 53 again. Further, the autonomous vehicle 6 may stop at the mask cart storage area 83 while maintaining the connected state of the mask transport cart 53. Furthermore, a parking area may be provided where the autonomous vehicle 6 stops alone without connecting a transport cart.

[0044] 4. Configuration Regarding Conveyance of Tape Feeder 35 Next, the configuration regarding the conveyance of the tape feeder 35 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. As described above, for the conveyance of the tape feeder 35, a feeder storage rack 45, a feeder transport cart 55, and an autonomous vehicle 6 are used. As shown by the arrow in the upper right of FIG. 4, the front-back, left-right directions are defined. The feeder storage rack 45 and the feeder transport cart 55 are configured to be generally symmetric about a center line extending in the front-back direction.

[0045] The feeder storage rack 45 is formed in a generally rectangular parallelepiped box shape with a depth dimension in the front-back direction larger than the height dimension and the width dimension in the left-right direction. The feeder storage rack 45 has a plurality of storage slots arranged in the left-right direction on the upper surface of the bottom, and the front side and the rear side are open. An operator can insert and store the tape feeder 35 from the rear into each of the plurality of storage slots.

[0046] The feeder storage rack 45 is installed behind the component mounting machines (93, 94). Thereby, the component mounting machines (93, 94) automatically exchange the tape feeder 35 between the inside of the machine and the feeder storage rack 45. Note that the feeder storage rack 45 may be conveyed close to the component mounting machines (93, 94), and the tape feeder 35 may be exchanged by an operator.

[0047] The feeder transport cart 55 is composed of a loading platform 551, a pair of left and right side portions 553, a pair of left and right legs 555, and two pairs of left and right wheels 556, etc. The loading platform 551 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in plan view and is horizontally arranged at a distance from the floor surface. On the upper surface of the loading platform 551, a roller conveyor 552 for automatically loading and unloading the feeder storage rack 45 is provided. On the lower surface of the loading platform 551, a connecting portion for detachably connecting the automatic traveling vehicle 6 is provided. On the rear surface of the loading platform 551, a barcode label 557 indicating identification information is attached.

[0048] Each of the pair of left and right side portions 553 is formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and is provided so as to extend downward from the left and right edges of the loading platform 551. The space between the left and right side portions 553 below the loading platform 551 is an entry area where the automatic traveling vehicle 6 enters. A pair of left and right legs 555 extending in the front-rear direction are provided below each of the side portions 553. Traveling wheels 556 are provided near the front and rear of the lower side of each of the pair of left and right legs 555. A total of four wheels 556 are swivel wheels with a variable traveling direction. At least a pair of left and right wheels 556 are provided with a foot-operated wheel locking mechanism (not shown).

[0049] The automatic traveling vehicle 6 is shared by the mask transport cart 53 and the feeder transport cart 55. The functions of the code reader and the connection guide of the automatic traveling vehicle 6 are common to the mask transport cart 53 and the feeder transport cart 55. The automatic traveling vehicle 6 connects to the feeder transport cart 55 placed in the feeder cart storage area 85 and travels to the component mounting machines (93, 94) designated as the destination. Then, the feeder storage rack 45 loaded on the feeder transport cart 55 is delivered to the component mounting machines (93, 94). The feeder transport cart 55 is loaded with another feeder storage rack 45 for which use at the component mounting machines (93, 94) has ended, or becomes empty.

[0050] After this, the automated vehicle 6 travels to the feeder cart storage area 85. Furthermore, the automated vehicle 6 moves behind the feeder transport cart 55 and performs a detachment operation to release the connection. This makes the automated vehicle 6 capable of connecting to the mask transport cart 53 or another feeder transport cart 55. Alternatively, the automated vehicle 6 may stop at the feeder cart storage area 85 while maintaining the connection to the feeder transport cart 55. As can be seen from the above explanation, multiple types of storage racks are used to accommodate multiple types of production materials, multiple types of transport carts are used to accommodate multiple types of storage racks, and multiple types of transport carts are detachably connected to one type of automated vehicle 6.

[0051] 5. Configuration of the Production Material Management System 1 Next, the configuration of the production material management system 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. The production material management system 1 consists mainly of a management device 2 and includes code readers 82 and 86 in the preparation area 8, as well as a code reader on the autonomous vehicle 6. The management device 2 has five functional units, including software, namely the input unit 21 (including code readers 82 and 86), storage unit 24, notification unit 25, transport instruction unit 26, and guidance unit 27.

[0052] The memory unit 24 stores the linked data determined by the execution of the preparation work in the memory 23. The linked data is data that links the identification information of the production materials to be prepared in the preparation work, the identification information of the storage rack, and the identification information of the transport cart. There are two types of linked data: mask linked data related to the screen mask 33 and feeder linked data related to the tape feeder 35. The mask linked data links the identification information of the screen mask 33, the mask storage rack 43, and the mask transport cart 53. The feeder linked data links the identification information of the tape feeder 35, the reel 36, the feeder storage rack 45, and the feeder transport cart 55.

[0053] Linked data is created by the operator or the notification unit 25 of the control device 2. The case where the operator creates the linked data will be described in detail below. In this case, the notification unit 25 first obtains the production plan and production progress status of the circuit board product from the line control device 97. The notification unit 25 then determines the production materials to be prepared (production materials required on the production line 9) based on the production plan or production progress status. The notification unit 25 also estimates when the production materials will be needed.

[0054] The notification unit 25 then notifies the worker of at least one of the determined type of production material and identification information. The timing of the notification is determined appropriately so that the preparation work is completed in time for the required period. Alternatively, the line management device 97 may determine the production materials to be prepared and the required period, and transmit a transport command including the determined information to the management device 2. Alternatively, the notification unit 25 makes a notification based on the information of the production materials and required period included in the transport command received from the line management device 97.

[0055] The worker performs the preparation work for the production materials in accordance with the notification from the notification unit 25. When performing the preparation work, or after performing it, the worker inputs the linking data using the input unit 21 (including the code reader 82 and the code reader 86). The storage unit 24 stores the input linking data in the memory 23.

[0056] Specifically, the notification unit 25 determines the screen masks 33 and reels 36 to be prepared when changing the current type of substrate product to the next type, based on the production plan. Furthermore, the notification unit 25 notifies the worker of the type or identification information of the determined screen masks 33 and reels 36. The worker performs mask preparation work consisting of the steps of preparing the screen masks 33 according to the notification from the notification unit 25, placing the multiple screen masks 33 into the mask storage rack 43, and loading the mask storage rack 43 onto the mask transport cart 53. The worker can input mask linking data using the code reader 82 and code reader 86 at each step of the mask preparation work. Alternatively, the worker may input the mask linking data all at once using the input unit 21 or the like after completing the mask preparation work, instead of inputting at each step.

[0057] Furthermore, the worker performs feeder preparation work consisting of the steps of preparing the reel 36 and tape feeder 35 according to the notification from the notification unit 25, loading the reel 36 into the tape feeder 35, storing the multiple tape feeders 35 with reels loaded in the feeder storage rack 45, and loading the feeder storage rack 45 onto the feeder transport cart 55. The worker can input feeder linking data using the code reader 82 and code reader 86 at each step of the feeder preparation work. Alternatively, the worker may input the feeder linking data all at once using the input unit 21 or the like after completing the feeder preparation work, without inputting at each step.

[0058] Next, we will describe in detail the case where the notification unit 25 of the management device 2 creates the linked data. In this case, the notification unit 25 creates the linked data based on the production plan or production progress of the substrate product and estimates the time when the production materials will be needed. The notification unit 25 notifies the worker of the created linked data at an appropriate time so that the preparation work is completed in time for the required period.

[0059] The worker performs preparation work for production materials in accordance with the notification from the notification unit 25. When the worker has performed the preparation work according to the linked data notified, the worker inputs into the input unit 21 that the preparation work has been completed normally. On the other hand, the worker may perform preparation work that differs from the linked data notified. In this case, the worker modifies the linked data using the input unit 21 (including the code reader 82 and code reader 86) based on the preparation work performed. The storage unit 24 stores the linked data in the memory 23 according to the input of completion of the preparation work normally or the input of modification of the linked data.

[0060] More specifically, the notification unit 25 determines the combination of screen masks 33, mask storage racks 43, and mask transport carts 53 to be prepared when changing the current type of substrate product to the next type, based on the production plan, and creates mask linking data. The notification unit 25 then notifies the worker of the created mask linking data. The worker performs the mask preparation work according to the notification from the notification unit 25. Here, the worker may prepare additional spare screen masks 33 that are not in the mask linking data, or use a different rack from the mask storage rack 43 specified in the mask linking data. In this case, the worker modifies the linking data using the input unit 21.

[0061] Furthermore, the notification unit 25 determines the combination of reel 36, tape feeder 35, feeder storage rack 45, and feeder storage rack 45 to be prepared, and creates feeder linking data. Next, the notification unit 25 notifies the worker of the created feeder linking data. The worker performs the feeder preparation work according to the notification from the notification unit 25. Here, the worker may prepare a reel 36 that differs from the one specified in the feeder linking data, considering the number of remaining parts on the reel 36, or use a different one if the specified tape feeder 35 or feeder storage rack 45 is under maintenance or malfunctioning. In this case, the worker changes the feeder linking data using the input unit 21.

[0062] Furthermore, the notification unit 25 may restrict the workers to whom notifications are sent depending on the type of production material. For example, there may be cases where workers are assigned specific tasks for each type of production material, or where only qualified workers are permitted to handle certain types of production materials. In these cases, a correspondence table between the types of production materials and the workers who perform the preparation work is stored in the memory 23 in advance. Therefore, the notification unit 25 can select the appropriate worker corresponding to the production material to be prepared and send a notification based on the correspondence table.

[0063] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the linked data links the identification information of the transport cart with the identification information of the cart storage area where the transport cart is located. The storage unit 24 stores the linked data, which links the identification information of the transport cart with the identification information of the cart storage area where the transport cart is located, in the memory 23. Specifically, the storage unit 24 stores linked data, which links the identification information of the cart storage area from which the automated vehicle 6 has released the transport cart, with the identification information of the transport cart. In addition, there are cases where an operator moves the transport cart and changes the cart storage area. In this case, the operator uses the code reader 86 or the input unit 21 to input a change to the cart storage area identification information in the linked data. The storage unit 24 updates the linked data in the memory 23 according to the input change.

[0064] The transport instruction unit 26 instructs a transport operation to move the transport cart, which has been prepared and placed in the cart storage area, to the production line 9, based on the production plan or production progress status of the substrate product and linked data. The transport operation instruction specifies at least the identification information of the storage rack containing the production materials, the identification information of the transport cart, the identification information of the cart storage area, and the information of the substrate work machine that will be the destination of the automated vehicle 6 (the destination of the production materials). Therefore, the automated vehicle 6 can transport the production materials by moving the transport cart from the cart storage area to the substrate work machine according to the specifications.

[0065] More specifically, the transport instruction unit 26 can confirm that preparation work has already been completed and that the production material is ready for transport, since the linked data is stored in the memory 23. After confirming that the transport preparation is complete, the transport instruction unit 26 instructs the automated guided vehicle 6 to perform the transport operation using wireless communication WL. The transport instruction unit 26 instructs the automated guided vehicle 6 to travel to a substrate processing machine corresponding to the type of production material to be transported. For example, the transport instruction unit 26 instructs the solder printing machine 91 as the destination for the transport operation of the screen mask 33, and instructs the component mounting machines (93, 94) as the destination for the transport operation of the tape feeder 35.

[0066] Here, the transport instruction unit 26 can determine whether the transport operation is for the screen mask 33 or the tape feeder 35 based on the linked data. However, there is a risk that the destination of the automated vehicle 6 may become unclear as to which of the two production lines 9 it is heading. Furthermore, in the case of a transport operation for the tape feeder 35, there is a risk that the destination of the automated vehicle 6 may become unclear as to which of the two component mounting machines (93, 94) it is heading. Therefore, it is preferable for the transport instruction unit 26 to instruct the transport operation by referring to the transport command received from the line management device 97. The transport command includes information on the type of production material required, and destination information specifying the destination (to the board work machine) where the production material is needed.

[0067] Furthermore, the transport instruction unit 26 instructs the transport operation at an appropriate timing so as to meet the required time predicted by the notification unit 25. Alternatively, since the line management device 97 can predict the required time with higher accuracy than the notification unit 25, it may transmit a transport command containing information about the required time to the management device 2. In this case, the transport instruction unit 26 can optimize the timing of instructing the transport operation with high accuracy by referring to the transport command.

[0068] Furthermore, the transport instruction unit 26 provides the automated guide vehicle 6 with a set of identification information for the transport cart and identification information for the cart storage area. Upon receiving the instruction, the automated guide vehicle 6 only needs to drive to the designated cart storage area and connect to the designated transport cart, thus streamlining and improving the efficiency of the driving and connection operations. In addition, during the connection operation, the code reader of the automated guide vehicle 6 reads the barcode labels (537, 557) of the transport cart, eliminating the risk of misidentifying the transport cart. The progress of the transport operation (for example, the completion of the connection operation between the automated guide vehicle 6 and the transport cart, the current position of the automated guide vehicle 6 after the connection operation, the completion of the transfer of production materials to the substrate processing machine, etc.) is displayed on the display unit 22 as appropriate.

[0069] The transport instruction unit 26 may restrict the destination depending on the type of production material to be transported or the condition of the travel path 88 of the automated vehicle 6. For example, components contained in a particular reel 36 may be dedicated to a specific type of circuit board product. In this case, the transport instruction unit 26 may permit the tape feeder 35 to which the particular reel 36 is attached to be transported to a production line 9 that produces the specific type of circuit board product, and prohibit it from being transported to another production line 9.

[0070] Furthermore, due to the movement of various equipment within the factory or temporary on-site work, a portion of the travel route 88 may become temporarily impassable. In this case, the transport instruction unit 26 acquires information on the range and time period during which the travel route 88 is impassable, and, if necessary, directs the automated vehicle 6 to detour towards the destination. The transport instruction unit 26 also restricts the selection of destinations where detours are not feasible, and can display on the display unit 22 or wirelessly notify the operator that transport operations by the automated vehicle 6 are not possible.

[0071] The transport instruction unit 26 may instruct the operator to perform transport operations as needed. For example, if the transport operation by the automated guided vehicle 6 is not possible as described above, the transport instruction unit 26 can instruct the operator to perform the transport operation, and the operator can perform the transport operation on their behalf. This ensures that the production line 9 does not stop and the production of circuit board products continues. In addition, during heavy loads when many transport operations overlap, or when the number of usable automated guided vehicles 6 decreases due to maintenance or malfunctions, the movement of some of the transport carts may be delayed. In this case, the transport instruction unit 26 may instruct the operator to perform the transport operation. The operator who receives the instruction can choose to perform the transport operation on their behalf or to tolerate a slight delay and allow the automated guided vehicle 6 to perform the transport operation.

[0072] The guidance unit 27 records the operation history of at least one of the production materials, storage racks, transport carts, and autonomous vehicle 6, and provides guidance on at least one of the ancillary tasks and operational guidelines based on the operation history. The operation history is recorded by accumulating, for example, the number of operations, operation time, and distance traveled. The guidance unit 27 notifies the worker of the guidance information by methods such as displaying it using the display unit 22 or by wireless communication to a portable terminal carried by the worker. The guidance unit 27 may provide guidance autonomously whenever guidance information is generated, or it may provide guidance when requested by the worker.

[0073] The guidance unit 27 guides users through ancillary tasks, including maintenance on at least one of the production materials, storage racks, transport carts, and autonomous vehicles 6. For example, the guidance unit 27 displays on the display unit 22 that it is time for recommended maintenance of the tape feeder 35, transport carts, and autonomous vehicles 6. Here, the tape feeder 35 is recommended to undergo regular performance inspections and internal cleaning. The transport carts and autonomous vehicles 6 are recommended to undergo regular replacement of consumable parts and inspection of the wheels at regular intervals. Therefore, by guiding users through maintenance tasks, the guidance unit 27 enables operators to recognize the recommended maintenance timing without extra effort and to reliably perform maintenance at the appropriate time.

[0074] The operational guidelines provided by the guidance unit 27 include guidelines for equalizing the usage frequency or number of uses of at least one of the multiple production components, multiple storage racks, multiple transport carts, and multiple automated guided vehicles 6. For example, the guidance unit 27 displays the operating history of three feeder transport carts 55, such as the number of uses and cumulative mileage, on the display unit 22, and recommends using the feeder transport cart 55 with the relatively fewest uses or shortest cumulative mileage next time. In addition, the guidance unit 27 can display the operating history and recommend next use for three automated guided vehicles 6, similar to how it does for three feeder transport carts 55. Furthermore, the guidance unit 27 can display the operating history, such as the number of uses and cumulative operating time, and recommend next use for multiple tape feeders 35 and multiple feeder storage racks 45.

[0075] Here, if the usage frequency or mileage of the three feeder transport carts 55 or the three autonomous vehicles 6 are uneven, it is undesirable that the performance of a specific feeder transport cart 55 or specific autonomous vehicle 6 will deteriorate significantly. Similarly, if the usage frequency of multiple tape feeders 35 or multiple feeder storage racks 45 is uneven, it is undesirable that wear and deterioration of a specific tape feeder 35 or specific feeder storage rack 45 will become significant. By providing operational guidelines for leveling usage, the guide unit 27 enables operators to level usage and improve overall production reliability. The guide unit 27 may also provide operational guidelines for leveling usage to the notification unit 25 that creates the linked data. In this case, the notification unit 25 can create linked data to level the usage of equipment components, storage racks, and transport carts based on the guidance.

[0076] Furthermore, in the production material management system 1, there is a non-zero risk that the automated vehicle 6 may mistakenly select the wrong transport cart or the wrong circuit board processing machine to travel to. In addition, there is a non-zero risk that an operator may make a mistake in the preparation work due to a misunderstanding, or that even if the preparation work is done correctly, the linked data may be entered incorrectly. If any of these errors occur, it will disrupt the production of circuit board products on the production line 9. As a countermeasure, at least one type of circuit board processing machine is equipped with an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the transported production material.

[0077] Specifically, the solder printing machine 91 is equipped with a code reader that reads identification information displayed on the screen mask 33. The component mounting machines (93, 94) are equipped with code readers that read at least one of the identification information displayed on the tape feeder 35 and the identification information displayed on the reel 36. However, the control unit of the tape feeder 35 may store the identification information of the tape feeder 35 and the identification information of the reel 36, and the component mounting machines (93, 94) may acquire at least one of the identification information by communicating with this control unit. By equipping the board processing machine with an acquisition unit, it is possible to detect errors in the transported production material.

[0078] 6. Operation of Production Material Management System 1 Next, the operation of the Production Material Management System 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 6. The operation flow shown in Figure 6 is mainly controlled by the management device 2, with some involvement from the operator. At the start of the operation flow, all transport carts are assumed to be in the cart storage area, and the identification information of the transport carts and the identification information of the cart storage area have been linked. Furthermore, this operation flow illustrates the case where the operator creates the linking data.

[0079] In step S1 of Figure 6, the notification unit 25 obtains the production plan and production progress status of the substrate product from the line management device 97. In the next step S2, the notification unit 25 determines the production materials to be prepared (the necessary production materials) based on the production plan or production progress status, and estimates the timing when the production materials will be needed. In the next step S3, the notification unit 25 notifies the worker of at least one of the determined production material type and identification information.

[0080] In the next step S4, the worker performs preparation work for the production material in accordance with the notification from the notification unit 25. In the next step S5, the worker inputs the linking data using the input unit 21 (including the code reader 82 and the code reader 86). The storage unit 24 stores the input linking data in the memory 23. Steps S4 and S5 may be performed in parallel, with the preparation work and input being performed in parallel, and may also be repeated to accommodate multiple production materials.

[0081] In the next step S6, the transport instruction unit 26 receives a transport command from the line management device 97. The transport command includes information about the substrate work machine that will be the destination of the production material (the destination of the automated vehicle 6), and information about the required time. The required time information included in the transport command is highly accurate when compared with the required time estimated by the notification unit 25 in step S2, and is referenced in the next step S7. In step S7, the transport instruction unit 26 instructs the automated vehicle 6 to perform a transport operation at the appropriate timing so as to meet the required time.

[0082] In the next step S8, the automated guided vehicle 6, having received the instruction for transport, travels to the designated cart storage area and connects to the designated transport cart. At this time, the barcode labels (537, 557) on the transport cart are read, so the transport instruction unit 26 can confirm that the transport cart is correct. The automated guided vehicle 6 then travels to the designated destination with the transport cart connected. In other words, the automated guided vehicle 6 transports the production materials to the designated board processing machine. In the next step S9, the production materials (storage racks) are transferred from the transport cart to the board processing machine.

[0083] In the next step, S10, the automated vehicle 6 travels to the cart storage area with the transport cart attached. Furthermore, the automated vehicle 6 performs a detachment operation to release the transport cart. At this time, the identification information of the transport cart is linked to the identification information of the cart storage area. This completes one transport operation. After this, the operation flow returns to step S2 and proceeds to the transport operation of the next production material to be prepared.

[0084] The operation flow may also be returned to step S1 or step S3 from step S10 (see the dashed arrow in Figure 6). If the operation is returned to step S1, for example, the first operation flow will perform the transport operation to the first production line 9, and the second operation flow will perform the transport operation to the second production line 9. If the operation is returned to step S3, for example, if there are many production components to be transported and some remain after one transport operation, the second operation flow will perform the transport operation for the remaining production components.

[0085] According to the production material management system 1 of this embodiment, the storage unit 24 can store and associate identification information for each of the prepared production materials, storage racks, and transport carts. Furthermore, the transport instruction unit 26 can instruct the transport operation of production materials at the appropriate timing based on the production plan or production progress status of the substrate product. Therefore, the production material management system 1 allows for proper management of production materials.

[0086] 7. Application Modes Next, application modes of the production material management system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 7. As shown in Figure 7, in the application mode, the production line 9A for substrate products is modified. Compared to the configuration of the embodiment, the production line 9A has a temporary storage unit 98 and an automatic exchange device 99 added. The temporary storage unit 98 is a part for temporarily storing at least one type of production material. In the application mode, the temporary storage unit 98 temporarily stores the feeder storage rack 45. The automatic exchange device 99 automatically exchanges the tape feeder 35 between the feeder storage rack 45 temporarily stored in the temporary storage unit 98 and the two component mounting machines (93, 94). For reference, the applicant has disclosed detailed configuration examples of the temporary storage unit 98 and the automatic exchange device 99 in International Publication No. 2022 / 118380.

[0087] In the applied configuration of the production material management system 1, the destination of the feeder storage rack 45 (the destination of the automated vehicle 6 to which the feeder transport cart 55 is attached) is the temporary storage unit 98, not the parts mounting machines (93, 94). To accommodate this, a different travel path 88 is provided compared to the embodiment. In addition, the transport instruction unit 26 specifies the temporary storage unit 98 as the destination of the automated vehicle 6 when transporting the tape feeder 35. In the applied configuration, production materials can be managed appropriately, just as in the embodiment.

[0088] 8. Modifications and Applications of Embodiments The objects of the preparation work and transport operations may be production components other than those described in the embodiments. For example, the squeegee, substrate support member, and solder container used in the solder printing machine 91, as well as the component mounting tool and mounting head used in the component mounting machines (93, 94), can be the objects of the preparation work and transport operations. In other words, one or more of these five types of components can be prepared and placed in a storage rack, and the storage rack can then be loaded onto a transport cart for transport. Alternatively, in a configuration in which the tape feeder 35 (component feeder) is fixedly mounted on the component mounting machines (93, 94), the objects of the preparation work and transport operations may be reels 36 (component containers), and a storage rack that accommodates multiple reels 36 may be used.

[0089] Furthermore, the embodiment can be applied to configurations in which a transport cart is connected to the rear or front of the autonomous vehicle 6. Also, even in a configuration where the autonomous vehicle 6 is not used, and an operator moves the transport cart according to the transport operation instructions of the transport instruction unit 26, production materials can still be properly managed. The embodiment can be modified and applied in various other ways.

[0090] 1: Production material management system 2: Management device 21: Input unit 22: Display unit 24: Storage unit 25: Notification unit 26: Transport instruction unit 27: Guidance unit 33: Screen mask 35: Tape feeder 36: Reel 43: Mask storage rack 45: Feeder storage rack 53: Mask transport cart 537: Barcode label 55: Feeder transport cart 557: Barcode label 6: Automated vehicle 8: Preparation area 81: Workbench 82: Code reader 83: Mask cart storage area 85: Feeder cart storage area 86: Code reader 88: Travel route 9, 9A: Production line 91: Solder printing machine 93, 94: Component mounting machine 97: Line management device 98: Temporary storage unit 99: Automatic exchange device

Claims

1. A production material management system comprising: a storage unit that stores linked data determined by performing preparatory work, which involves preparing production materials to be used in a production line for producing circuit board products by performing predetermined work on circuit boards, storing them in storage racks, and further loading the storage racks onto a transport cart, the linked data being the data which links the identification information of the production materials to be prepared, the identification information of the storage racks, and the identification information of the transport cart; and a transport instruction unit that instructs a transport operation to move the transport cart, which has been prepared and placed in the cart storage area, to the production line and transport the production materials, based on the production plan or production progress status of the circuit board products and the linked data.

2. A production component management system according to claim 1, comprising: a notification unit that determines the production components to be prepared based on the production plan or the production progress status and notifies the worker performing the preparation work of at least one of the type of production component and the identification information; and an input unit that inputs the linked data when the worker performs the preparation work in accordance with the notification from the notification unit or after the work has been performed.

3. A production component management system according to claim 1, comprising: a notification unit that creates the linked data based on the production plan or the production progress status and notifies the worker performing the preparation work of the created linked data; and an input unit that modifies the linked data when the worker performs the preparation work which differs from the notified linked data.

4. The production material management system according to claim 1, wherein the cart storage area is provided in multiple locations so that any of the multiple transport carts can be placed there, the storage unit stores the linked data which links the identification information of the transport cart with the identification information of the cart storage area where the transport cart is placed, and the transport instruction unit instructs the transport operation which specifies the identification information of the transport cart and the identification information of the cart storage area.

5. The production material management system according to claim 4, further comprising an input unit for changing the linked data when an operator moves the transport cart and changes the cart's location.

6. The production material management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the transport instruction unit instructs an automated vehicle, which is traveling with the transport cart detachably connected, to perform the transport operation.

7. The production material management system according to claim 6, wherein the cart storage area is provided in multiple locations so that any of the multiple transport carts can be placed there, and the storage unit stores the linked data which links the identification information of the cart storage area from which the autonomous vehicle has uncoupled the transport cart with the identification information of the transport cart in question.

8. The production material management system according to claim 6, wherein multiple types of storage racks are used to accommodate multiple types of production material, multiple types of transport carts are used to accommodate multiple types of storage racks, and the multiple types of transport carts are detachably connected to one type of autonomous vehicle.

9. The production line comprises a plurality of substrate processing machines that use different types of production materials, and the transport instruction unit instructs the substrate processing machine corresponding to the type of production material to be transported as the destination of the automated vehicle, the production material management system according to claim 6.

10. The production material management system according to claim 9, wherein the transport instruction unit receives destination information specifying the destination from a line management device that manages the production line.

11. The production line comprises a temporary storage unit for temporarily storing at least one type of production material, and the transport instruction unit instructs the autonomous vehicle to travel to the substrate processing machine or the temporary storage unit corresponding to the type of production material to be transported.

12. The production component management system according to claim 9, wherein the production component is at least one of an instrument component detachably mounted on the substrate work machine and a consumption component consumed by the substrate work machine.

13. The production component management system according to claim 12, wherein the substrate work machine includes a solder printing machine for printing solder paste onto the substrate, and the production component includes at least one of a screen mask, a squeegee, and a substrate support member detachably mounted on the solder printing machine, and a solder container for containing the solder paste to be consumed.

14. The production member management system according to claim 12, wherein the substrate work machine includes a component mounting machine for mounting components onto the substrate, and the production member includes at least one of a component feeder, a component mounting tool, and a mounting head detachably mounted on the component mounting machine, and a component container for housing the components to be consumed.

15. The production material management system according to claim 9, wherein the transport instruction unit restricts the destination according to the type of production material to be transported or the condition of the travel path of the automated vehicle.

16. The production material management system according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the substrate handling machines is equipped with an acquisition unit for acquiring the identification information of the transported production material.

17. The production material management system according to claim 6, comprising a guide unit that records the operational history of at least one of the production material, the storage rack, the transport cart, and the autonomous vehicle, and provides guidance on at least one of ancillary work and operational guidelines based on the operational history.

18. The production material management system according to claim 17, wherein the guide unit guides the ancillary work of maintaining at least one of the production material, the storage rack, the transport cart, and the autonomous vehicle.

19. The production material management system according to claim 17, wherein the guide unit provides the operational guidelines for equalizing the frequency or number of uses of at least one of the multiple production materials, the multiple storage racks, the multiple transport carts, and the multiple autonomous vehicles.

20. The production material management system according to claim 6, wherein each of the production material, the storage rack, and the transport cart displays the identification information, and the production material management system is provided with a reading unit that is located in the preparation area where the preparation work is performed and in the autonomous vehicle, respectively, for reading the displayed identification information.

21. The production material management system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the notification unit restricts the workers to be notified according to the type of production material.

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