Mounting system, coordination device, and tape waste conveyance device

Abstract

This mounting system includes: a mounting line including at least one component mounting device which mounts a component taken out from a carrier tape on a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste; a tape waste conveyance device which conveys the tape waste generated in the component mounting device to a collection position; and a coordination device capable of communicating with the component mounting device and the tape waste conveyance device.

Description

Mounting system, cooperation device, and tape scrap conveying device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mounting system including a component mounting apparatus and a tape scrap conveying device that conveys tape scraps, a cooperation device that cooperates the component mounting apparatus with the tape scrap conveying device, and a tape scrap conveying device.

[0002] A tape scrap conveying device that conveys carrier tape scraps generated by a component mounting apparatus incorporated in a mounting line to a collection container has been proposed. Patent Document 1 discloses a tape scrap collection system (tape scrap conveying device) that includes a duct below the component mounting apparatus for receiving and conveying tape scraps discharged from the component mounting apparatus, and conveys the received tape scraps to a collection position by blowing air.

[0003] International Publication No. 2024 / 057624

[0004] By the way, conventional tape scrap conveying devices including that described in Patent Document 1 are premised on being retrofitted to an existing mounting line, and therefore adopt an independent device configuration that does not consider cooperation with the equipment that constitutes the mounting line. For this reason, an operator has manually activated the tape scrap conveying device in accordance with the start of production of the mounting line. However, even if production is started on the mounting line, the operator may forget to activate the tape scrap conveying device. If production continues in this state, tape scraps will become clogged near the inlet of the component mounting apparatus or the tape scrap conveying device, and there has been a problem that even if the tape scrap conveying device is operated thereafter, the tape scraps cannot be conveyed.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a mounting system, a cooperation device, and a tape scrap conveying device that can appropriately cooperate the operation of a component mounting apparatus and a tape scrap conveying device.

[0006] The mounting system of the present disclosure includes: a mounting line including at least one component mounting apparatus that mounts components taken out from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape scraps; a tape scrap conveying device that conveys the tape scraps generated by the component mounting apparatus to a collection position; and a cooperation device capable of communicating with the component mounting apparatus and the tape scrap conveying device.

[0007] The collaborative device of this disclosure is a collaborative device that connects at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste, and a tape waste transport device that transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location, wherein the collaborative device commands the component mounting device to start production and commands the tape waste transport device to start operation, and if the tape waste transport device has not started operation, it notifies the notification unit to that effect.

[0008] Other mounting systems in this disclosure include a mounting line including at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste; a higher-level system connected to and capable of communicating with the component mounting device via a communication network; a tape waste transport device that transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location; and a coordinating device capable of communicating with the higher-level system and the tape waste transport control unit of the tape waste transport device.

[0009] The tape waste transport device of this disclosure is installed in conjunction with an assembly line that includes at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste, and transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection position, comprising a transport unit for transporting the tape waste and a tape waste transport control unit for controlling the operation of the transport unit, wherein the tape waste transport control unit starts a program for operating the transport unit based on a command to start operation from a coordinating device that can communicate with the component mounting device and the tape waste transport control unit.

[0010] According to this disclosure, the operation of the component mounting device and the tape waste transport device can be appropriately coordinated.

[0011] A perspective view showing the configuration of a mounting system including a tape waste transport device and a plurality of component mounting devices according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A side view showing the configuration of the main part of a component mounting device installed above the tape waste transport device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A perspective view showing the configuration of the tape waste transport device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. An explanatory diagram of the transport section of the tape waste transport device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the mounting system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of another embodiment of the mounting system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A block diagram showing another embodiment of the tape waste transport device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] An embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The configurations, shapes, etc. described below are illustrative examples for illustrative purposes and can be modified as appropriate according to the specifications of the mounting system, mounting line, component mounting device, tape waste transport device, interoperation device, and higher-level system. In the following, all corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in all drawings, and redundant explanations are omitted. In Figure 1 and in some parts described later, two axes that are orthogonal to each other in the horizontal plane are shown as the X-axis in the substrate transport direction (the direction in which the substrate is passed in Figure 1) and the Y-axis that is orthogonal to the substrate transport direction (the front-to-back direction in Figure 1). Also, in Figure 1 and in some parts described later, the Z-axis (up-down direction) is shown as the height direction orthogonal to the horizontal plane.

[0013] First, the configuration of the mounting system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 1. The mounting system 1 comprises multiple component mounting devices M1 to M3 that constitute the mounting line L, a tape waste transport device 20, an information display device 40, and a linkage device 41. The component mounting devices M1 to M3, the information display device 40, and the linkage device 41 are connected to the communication network NT wirelessly or by wire. The mounting system 1 has the function of transferring substrates KB between adjacent component mounting devices M1 to M3 and mounting components onto the substrates KB to produce mounted substrates. The mounting system 1 also has the function of transporting and collecting tape waste from empty carrier tapes that have been supplied with components to a collection box 24 (collection position). The component mounting devices M1 to M3 are installed above the sub-duct 21 and main duct 22 of the tape waste transport device 20 (see Figure 2).

[0014] Each component mounting device M1 to M3 has a feeder trolley 3 equipped with multiple tape feeders 2 that supply components using carrier tape, and has the function of mounting components onto a substrate KB. The tape waste transport device 20 has the function of collecting tape waste from the carrier tape discharged from the chute section of the feeder trolley 3 attached to the component mounting devices M1 to M3. Note that the number of component mounting devices M1 to M3 in the mounting line L is not limited to three, but may be one, two, or four or more. Furthermore, the mounting line L may be configured to include a printing device (not shown) for printing solder paste onto the substrate upstream of the component mounting devices M1 to M3, and a reflow device (not shown) for melting solder paste and soldering downstream.

[0015] In Figure 1, the information display device 40 is positioned above the mounting line L or on a wall, and functions as a so-called andon, notifying the operating status of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport device 20, as well as the occurrence of errors. The coordinating device 41 can communicate with the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport device 20 via the communication network NT, and has the function of transmitting various commands to the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport device 20, as will be described later. The coordinating device 41 can also communicate with the information display device 40 via the communication network NT, and notifies the information display device 40 of information regarding the tape waste transport device 20, as will be described later.

[0016] Thus, the mounting system 1 includes a mounting line L, a tape waste transport device 20, and a coordinating device 41. The mounting line L includes at least one component mounting device M1 to M3 that mounts components removed from the carrier tape onto the substrate KB and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste. The tape waste transport device 20 transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to a collection location (storage box 24). The coordinating device 41 can communicate with the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport device 20.

[0017] Next, with reference to Figure 2, the configurations of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 will be described. The three component mounting devices M1 to M3 have similar configurations, and here, component mounting device M1 will be used as an example. Component mounting device M1 comprises a component mounting main body 4 and two feeder trolleys 3. The feeder trolleys 3 are detachably connected to the front and rear sides of the component mounting main body 4, respectively. The feeder trolleys 3 mounted on the component mounting main body 4, together with the tape feeder 2, constitute a component supply unit 5.

[0018] Multiple tape feeders 2 are mounted on the upper surface of the feeder trolley 3, arranged along the X-axis. The feeder trolley 3 rotatably holds a reel 7 around which a carrier tape T containing parts 6 to be supplied to the parts mounting body 4 is wound. The tape feeders 2 transport the carrier tape T stored on the reel 7 in the tape feeding direction to supply parts 6 to the parts mounting body 4.

[0019] In Figure 2, when the feeder trolley 3 is attached to the parts mounting main unit 4, the multiple tape feeders 2 are connected to the mounting control device 8 provided in the parts mounting main unit 4 via the feeder trolley 3. The mounting control device 8 transmits a command to supply parts 6 to the tape feeders 2, and upon receiving the command, the tape feeders 2 feed the carrier tape T to supply the parts 6 to the parts retrieval position. The mounting control device 8 calculates the length of the empty carrier tape T discharged from the tape feeders 2 based on the length of the carrier tape T discharged from the tape feeders 2 with one supply command and the number of parts 6 supplied by the tape feeders 2.

[0020] Two substrate transport mechanisms 10 are provided side by side on the upper surface of the base 9 of the component mounting main body 4, between the front and rear component supply sections 5. Each substrate transport mechanism 10 transports, positions, and holds a substrate KB along the X-axis. Above the substrate transport mechanisms 10, two mounting heads 12 are installed that move horizontally (in the X-axis and Y-axis directions) by a head moving mechanism 11.

[0021] In Figure 2, the mounting control device 8 controls the head movement mechanism 11 and the mounting head 12 to perform a component mounting operation in which the mounting head 12 picks up the component 6 supplied by the tape feeder 2 to the component pick-up position and transfers and mounts it to the mounting point of the substrate KB held by the substrate transport mechanism 10. Above the feeder trolley 3, there is an openable and closable main body cover 13 that covers the movable mechanisms such as the mounting head 12 to prevent the operator from touching them during the component mounting operation.

[0022] In Figure 2, a chute section 14 is installed on the side of the feeder trolley 3 that is connected to the base 9, which guides the empty carrier tape T discharged from the tape feeder 2 downwards. A cutter 15 for cutting the empty carrier tape T is installed in the chute section 14.

[0023] The cutter 15 is controlled by the mounting control device 8 so that it operates at predetermined intervals (e.g., 10 cm) of empty carrier tape T discharged from any of the multiple tape feeders 2. As a result, the cutter 15 simultaneously cuts all empty carrier tape T that have passed the cutting position. The cut carrier tape T is discharged from below the chute section 14 as tape waste Ts. The predetermined length at which the carrier tape T is cut by the cutter 15 is set to a length that facilitates the collection of the tape waste Ts by the tape waste transport device 20.

[0024] In Figure 2, an operation panel 16 is installed on the front and back of the component mounting device M1 at the positions where the worker works. The operation panel 16 displays various information on its display, and the worker uses the operation buttons displayed on the display to input data and operate the component mounting device M1.

[0025] Next, the configuration of the tape waste transport device 20 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 4. In Figure 3, the tape waste transport device 20 is configured to include a transport unit 25 for transporting tape waste Ts and an operation unit 26 having a tape waste transport control unit 35 (Figure 5) for controlling the operation of the transport unit 25. The transport unit 25 is equipped with six sub-ducts 21, two main ducts 22, and one discharge duct 23. The main ducts 22 are tubular members extending in the direction of the arrangement of component mounting devices M1 to M3 (X-axis direction) and are installed on the floor FL. The main ducts 22 have a main duct outlet 22a that opens downstream of the flow of substrate KB. The front main ducts 22 correspond to the three feeder trolleys 3 located at the front, and the rear main ducts 22 correspond to the three feeder trolleys 3 located at the rear.

[0026] In Figures 2 and 3, three sub-ducts 21 corresponding to three feeder trolleys 3 connected to the front are connected to the front of the main duct 22. Similarly, three sub-ducts 21 corresponding to three feeder trolleys 3 connected to the rear are connected to the rear of the main duct 22. A main-side opening 22K is provided at the tip of each sub-duct 21 where it connects to the main duct 22. An input port 21a is formed on the upper surface of each sub-duct 21. The input port 21a is located directly below the chute section 14 of each feeder trolley 3 mounted on the component loading devices M1 to M3. The sub-duct 21 receives tape waste Ts of the carrier tape T discharged from the chute section 14 through the input port 21a.

[0027] In Figures 3 and 4, an outlet 23a is formed on the upper surface of the discharge duct 23 at a position corresponding to the main duct outlet 22a of the main duct 22. The discharge duct 23 receives the tape waste Ts discharged from the main duct outlet 22a through the outlet 23a. On the lower surface of the discharge duct 23, an outlet 23b is opened near the end away from the outlet 23a. Below the outlet 23b, a storage box 24 is positioned to contain the tape waste Ts discharged from the outlet 23b.

[0028] In Figure 4, multiple sub-air discharge nozzles 29 are arranged in front of the wall inside the sub-duct 21 that faces the main side opening 22K, discharging air toward the main side opening 22K. The sub-air discharge nozzles 29 discharge air into the sub-duct 21 (arrow b1), transporting the tape waste Ts discharged from the chute 14 and received from the inlet 21a toward the main side opening 22K. The tape waste Ts transported within the sub-duct 21 is then transported into the main duct 22 through the main side opening 22K (arrow a1 in Figure 3).

[0029] Multiple main air discharge nozzles 30 are arranged inside the main duct 22, discharging air toward the main duct outlet 22a. The main air discharge nozzles 30 discharge air into the main duct 22 (arrow b2), transporting the tape waste Ts that has been conveyed from the sub-duct 21 into the main duct 22 toward the main duct outlet 22a (arrow a2 in Figure 3). The tape waste Ts that has been conveyed to the main duct outlet 22a is discharged from the main duct outlet 22a and received into the discharge duct 23 from the discharge duct inlet 23a (arrow a3 in Figure 3).

[0030] In Figure 4, multiple exhaust air discharge nozzles 31 are arranged inside the discharge duct 23, which discharge air toward the discharge port 23b. The exhaust air discharge nozzles 31 discharge air into the discharge duct 23 (arrow b3), transporting the tape waste Ts received inside the discharge duct 23 toward the discharge port 23b. The tape waste Ts transported to the discharge port 23b is discharged from the discharge port 23b and stored in the storage box 24 (arrow a4 in Figure 3).

[0031] Each of the multiple sub-air discharge nozzles 29, multiple main air discharge nozzles 30, and multiple exhaust air discharge nozzles 31 is supplied with air (positive pressure) via an electromagnetic valve 32. Positive pressure is supplied to the electromagnetic valves 32 from a positive pressure source 34 via an air pipe 33. The multiple electromagnetic valves 32 are controlled by a tape waste transport control unit 35 (Figure 5) located in the operating unit 26. By controlling the multiple electromagnetic valves 32 with the tape waste transport control unit 35, positive pressure is discharged from the sub-air discharge nozzles 29, main air discharge nozzles 30, and exhaust air discharge nozzles 31 at predetermined timings. As a result, the tape waste Ts discharged from the chute 14 is collected in the storage box 24 via the sub-duct 21, main duct 22, and exhaust duct 23.

[0032] Next, with reference to Figure 5, the configuration of the control system of the mounting system 1 will be explained. Here, we will focus on the function of operating the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport device 20 in coordination, among the functions of the mounting system 1.

[0033] In Figure 5, the multiple component mounting devices M1 to M3, the information display device 40, the interoperation device 41, and the portable terminal 44 held by the worker, which constitute the mounting line L, can communicate with each other via the communication network NT. The tape waste transport device 20 is equipped with an operation unit 26 and multiple electromagnetic valves 32. The operation unit 26 is equipped with a touch panel 27 and a warning lamp 28 on its upper part (see also Figure 3). The operation unit 26 is also equipped with a tape waste transport control unit 35, a circuit breaker 36, and a power supply unit 37. Commercial power is supplied to the tape waste transport control unit 35 and the power supply unit 37 via the circuit breaker 36. The power supply unit 37 has a built-in AC / DC conversion circuit that converts commercial power into a DC voltage to be supplied to the electromagnetic valves 32. The DC voltage output from the power supply unit 37 is supplied to the multiple electromagnetic valves 32 as driving power.

[0034] The tape waste transport control unit 35 is a controller that executes processing according to a program such as a programmable logic controller (PLC (sequencer)), and is equipped with a timer 38. The tape waste transport control unit 35 has the function of controlling the operation of the tape waste transport device 20, such as starting and ending operation. The tape waste transport control unit 35 is connected to a touch panel 27, a warning lamp 28, a plurality of electromagnetic valves 32, and an interoperation device 41.

[0035] In Figure 5, the tape waste transport control unit 35 transmits ON / OFF operation signals to a plurality of electromagnetic valves 32 in a predetermined order according to a pre-set program, based on commands transmitted from the coordinating device 41, commands input by the operator via the touch panel 27, and the time or duration reserved in the timer 38. The tape waste transport control unit 35 also displays the operating status of the tape waste transport device 20 on the touch panel 27 and warning lamp 28, and transmits this information to the coordinating device 41.

[0036] In Figure 5, the coordinating device 41 is a computer, which is realized by, for example, a memory that stores the programs executed by each processing unit, and a processor such as a CPU that executes the programs. The coordinating device 41 includes a command unit 42, a warning unit 43, and the like. The command unit 42 transmits commands such as production start, operation start, production end, and operation end to the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport control unit 35 of the tape waste transport device 20.

[0037] The warning unit 43 notifies the information display device 40 and the operator's portable terminal 44 if the tape waste transport device 20, to which the operation start command has been sent, has not started operating even though the production start command has been sent to the parts loading devices M1 to M3. The warning unit 43 also notifies the information display device 40, the portable terminal 44, the touch panel 27 of the operation unit 26, and the warning lamp 28 if the parts loading work has been completed in the parts loading devices M1 to M3, to which the operation end command has been sent, has not stopped operating even though the operation end command has been sent to the tape waste transport device 20. In other words, the information display device 40, the portable terminal 44, the touch panel 27 of the operation unit 26, and the warning lamp 28 constitute a notification unit 45 that displays warnings.

[0038] In Figure 5, specifically, the warning unit 43 determines that the tape waste transport device 20 has not started operating if a predetermined time has elapsed since the operation start command was sent to the tape waste transport control unit 35, but no report of operation starting has been received from the tape waste transport control unit 35. For example, if an operator forgets to turn on the breaker 36 of the operation unit 26 and commercial power is not supplied to the tape waste transport control unit 35 or the power supply unit 37, the tape waste transport device 20 will not start operating.

[0039] Furthermore, the warning unit 43 determines that the tape waste transport device 20 has not terminated operation if a predetermined time has elapsed since a command to terminate operation was sent to the tape waste transport control unit 35, but no report indicating that operation has terminated has been received from the tape waste transport control unit 35. For example, if the connecting wire between the linkage device 41 and the tape waste transport control unit 35 is disconnected while the tape waste transport device 20 is in operation, the operation of the tape waste transport device 20 will not terminate. Thus, the linkage device 41 has a warning unit 43 that notifies the notification unit 45 if the tape waste transport device 20 has not started operation even though the component mounting devices M1 to M3 have started production, or if the tape waste transport device 20 has not terminated operation even though the component mounting devices M1 to M3 have finished production.

[0040] Next, with reference to Figure 5, the process for starting production of mounted substrates in the mounting system 1 will be explained. First, the operator operates the linkage device 41 to instruct the start of production. When the start of production is instructed, the command unit 42 of the linkage device 41 instructs the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to start production and also instructs the tape waste transport device 20 to start operation. Upon receiving the start of production instruction, the component mounting devices M1 to M3 begin production of mounted substrates. In addition, the tape waste transport control unit 35 of the tape waste transport device 20, upon receiving the start of operation instruction, starts a program to operate the tape waste transport device 20 based on the start of operation instruction.

[0041] In this manner, the coordinating device 41 commands the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to start production and commands the tape waste transport device 20 to start operation. If the tape waste transport device 20 has not started operation, it notifies the notification unit 45 accordingly. The tape waste transport device 20 comprises a transport unit 25 that transports tape waste Ts and a tape waste transport control unit 35 that controls the operation of the transport unit 25. The tape waste transport control unit 35 starts a program to operate the transport unit 25 based on the operation start command from the coordinating device 41, which can communicate with the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport control unit 35.

[0042] The tape waste transport control unit 35 has a timer 38 that reserves a time or duration for starting operation. When the tape waste transport control unit 35 is unable to receive a command to start operation from the coordinating device 41, it can start operation based on the time or duration reserved in the timer 38, or it can issue a warning on the touch panel 27 or warning lamp 28 instead of starting operation. The time or duration for starting operation, and the selection of starting operation or issuing a warning using the timer 38, can be set by the operator using the touch panel 27, or by remote operation using the coordinating device 41 or the higher-level system 46 described later.

[0043] In the production end process of the mounting board in the mounting system 1, the cooperation device 41 instructs the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3 to end production, and instructs the tape scrap conveying device 20 to end operation. The component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3 that have received the production end instruction end the production of the mounting board, and the tape scrap conveying device 20 that has received the operation end instruction starts a program for ending the operation of the tape scrap conveying device 20. Except for the above, this process is the same as the aforementioned production start process, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0044] Next, with reference to FIG. 6, another embodiment of the mounting system (hereinafter referred to as "mounting system 1A") will be described. The mounting system 1A differs from the mounting system 1 shown in FIG. 5 in that it includes a host system 46 provided with a warning unit 43. Hereinafter, the same parts as those of the mounting system 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0045] The host system 46 is a computer connected to the communication network NT, and is capable of communicating various commands and information with the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3, the information display device 40, the portable terminal 44, and the cooperation device 41. The host system 46 instructs the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3 to start (end) production, and instructs the cooperation device 41 to start (end) the operation of the tape scrap conveying device 20. The cooperation device 41 instructs the tape scrap conveying control unit 35 to start (end) operation based on the operation start (end) command from the host system 46. The tape scrap conveying control unit 35 that has received the operation start command (operation end command) starts a program for operating (ending) the tape scrap conveying device 20 based on the operation start (end) command.

[0046] In Fig. 6, the host system 46 monitors the operating status, error occurrence status, and the like of the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3. Further, the host system 46 monitors the operating status of the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20 via the cooperation apparatus 41. Then, the warning unit 43 of the host system 46 notifies the notification unit 45 of the fact that the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20 has not started operation (ended operation) after the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3 have started production (ended production). Note that, similarly to the mounting system 1, the mounting system 1A may have a configuration in which the cooperation apparatus 41 includes the warning unit 43. Further, a server or a computer independent of the host system 46 and the cooperation apparatus 41 may have a configuration including the warning unit 43.

[0047] Note that the mounting system 1A may have a configuration in which the host system 46 has the functions included in the cooperation apparatus 41. Further, in the mounting system 1 and the mounting system 1A, the operation unit 26 of the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20 may have the functions included in the cooperation apparatus 41.

[0048] Next, with reference to Fig. 7, another embodiment of a tape scrap conveying apparatus (hereinafter referred to as "tape scrap conveying apparatus 20A") will be described. Unlike the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20 that conveys tape scraps Ts generated in the component mounting apparatuses M1 to M3 to a recovery position (the storage box 24) by air (positive pressure), the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20A conveys the tape scraps Ts to the recovery position by a conveyor driven by a motor 50. Hereinafter, the same parts as those of the tape scrap conveying apparatus 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0049] Specifically, the tape waste transport device 20A is equipped with a sub-conveyor, a main conveyor, and a discharge conveyor (not shown) operated by a motor 50. The sub-conveyor is located inside the sub-duct 21 and transports the tape waste Ts discharged from the chute 14 and received from the input port 21a to the main duct 22 (arrow a1 in Figure 3). The main conveyor is located inside the main duct 22 and transports the tape waste Ts transported from the sub-duct 21 to the main duct outlet 22a (arrows a2, a3 in Figure 3). The discharge conveyor is located inside the discharge duct 23 and transports the tape waste Ts discharged from the main duct outlet 22a and received from the discharge duct inlet 23a to the discharge port 23b. The tape waste Ts transported to the discharge port 23b is stored in the storage box 24 (arrow a4 in Figure 3).

[0050] In Figure 7, each motor 50 is driven by a motor drive unit 51. The motor drive unit 51 is supplied with power from the power supply unit 37. Multiple motor drive units 51 are controlled by operation signals (ON / OFF signals) transmitted from the tape waste transport control unit 35. By controlling the multiple motor drive units 51 based on a preset program, the tape waste transport device 20A transports the tape waste Ts generated in the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to the collection position (storage box 24). The control of starting or ending the operation of the tape waste transport device 20A by the tape waste transport control unit 35 is the same as the control of the tape waste transport control unit 35 of the tape waste transport device 20, and a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0051] As explained above, this disclosure discloses the following technical concepts.

[0052] (Technology 1) An assembly system 1 comprising: an assembly line L including at least one component mounting device M1 to M3 that mounts components 6 taken from a carrier tape T onto a substrate KB and discharges the empty carrier tape T as tape waste Ts; tape waste transport devices 20, 20A that transport the tape waste Ts generated by the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to a collection position (storage box 24); and a coordinating device 41 that can communicate with the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A.

[0053] This allows for proper coordination of the operation of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0054] (Technology 2) The implementation system 1 described in Technology 1, wherein the coordinating device 41 commands the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to start production and commands the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A to start operation, and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A start a program to operate the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A based on the command to start operation.

[0055] This allows for proper coordination between the start of production of component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the start of operation of tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0056] (Technology 3) The implementation system 1 according to Technology 1 or 2, wherein the coordinating device 41 has a warning unit 43 that notifies the notification unit 45 if the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A have not started operation.

[0057] This allows notification to be given if the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A are not operating in proper coordination.

[0058] (Technical 4) A linkage device 41 that links at least one component mounting device M1 to M3 which mounts components 6 taken from a carrier tape T onto a substrate KB and discharges the empty carrier tape T as tape waste Ts, and tape waste transport devices 20, 20A which transport the tape waste Ts generated by the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to a collection position (storage box 24), wherein the linkage device 41 commands the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to start production and commands the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A to start operation, and if the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A have not started operation, it notifies the notification unit 45 to that effect.

[0059] This allows for proper coordination of the operation of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0060] (Technical 5) An assembly system 1A comprising: an assembly line L including at least one component mounting device M1 to M3 that mounts components 6 taken from a carrier tape T onto a substrate KB and discharges the empty carrier tape T as tape waste Ts; a higher-level system 46 connected to the component mounting devices M1 to M3 via a communication network NT and capable of communicating with the component mounting devices M1 to M3; tape waste transport devices 20, 20A that transport the tape waste Ts generated by the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to a collection position (storage box 24); and a coordinating device 41 capable of communicating with the higher-level system 46 and the tape waste transport control unit 35 of the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A.

[0061] This allows for proper coordination of the operation of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0062] (Technology 6) The mounting system 1A described in Technology 5, wherein the upper-level system 46 commands the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to start production and the coordinating device 41 to start operation of the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0063] This allows for proper coordination between the start of production of component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the start of operation of tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0064] (Technical 7) The implementation system 1A according to Technical 5 or 6, wherein the coordinating device 41 commands the tape waste transport control unit 35 to start operation based on the command to start operation from the higher-level system 46, and the tape waste transport control unit 35 starts a program to operate the tape waste transport devices 20, 20A based on the command to start operation.

[0065] This allows for proper coordination between the start of production of component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the start of operation of tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0066] (Technology 8) The mounting system according to any one of Techniques 5 to 7, further comprising a warning unit 43 that notifies the notification unit 45 if the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A have not started operation after the component mounting devices M1 to M3 have started production.

[0067] This allows notification to be given if the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A are not operating in proper coordination.

[0068] (Technical 9) Tape waste transport devices 20, 20A are installed alongside a mounting line L which includes at least one component mounting device M1 to M3 that mounts components 6 taken from a carrier tape T onto a substrate KB and discharges the empty carrier tape T as tape waste Ts, and transport the tape waste Ts generated by the component mounting devices M1 to M3 to a collection position (storage box 24), comprising a transport unit 25 for transporting the tape waste Ts and a tape waste transport control unit 35 that controls the operation of the transport unit 25, wherein the tape waste transport control unit 35 starts a program to operate the transport unit 25 based on a command to start operation from a coordinating device 41 that can communicate with the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport control unit 35.

[0069] This allows for proper coordination of the operation of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0070] (Technical 10) The tape waste transport control unit 35 has a timer 38 that reserves a time or duration for starting operation, and when the tape waste transport control unit 35 is unable to receive a command to start operation from the coordinating device 41, it starts operation based on the time or duration reserved in the timer 38, as described in Technical 9, for tape waste transport devices 20, 20A.

[0071] This allows for proper coordination of the operation of the component mounting devices M1 to M3 and the tape waste transport devices 20 and 20A.

[0072] This application is based on a Japanese patent application (Patent Application No. 2025-051728) filed on March 26, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0073] The implementation system, coordinating device, and tape waste transport device of this disclosure have the effect of appropriately coordinating the operation of the cut component mounting device and the tape waste transport device, and are useful in the field of mounting components onto a substrate.

[0074] 1, 1A Mounting system 6 Components 20, 20A Tape waste transport device 24 Storage box (collection position) 25 Transport unit 41 Interlocking device 45 Notification unit KB Circuit board L Mounting line M1-M3 Component mounting device NT Communication network T Carrier tape Ts Tape waste

Claims

1. A mounting system comprising: a mounting line including at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste; a tape waste transport device that transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location; and a coordinating device capable of communicating with the component mounting device and the tape waste transport device.

2. The mounting system according to claim 1, wherein the coordinating device commands the component mounting device to start production and commands the tape waste transport device to start operation, and the tape waste transport device starts a program to operate the tape waste transport device based on the command to start operation.

3. The implementation system according to claim 2, wherein the coordinating device has a warning unit that notifies the notification unit if the tape waste transport device has not started operation.

4. A coordinating device that links at least one component mounting device which mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a circuit board and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste, and a tape waste transport device which transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location, wherein the coordinating device commands the component mounting device to start production and commands the tape waste transport device to start operation, and notifies the notification unit if the tape waste transport device has not started operation.

5. An assembly system comprising: an assembly line including at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste; a higher-level system connected to the component mounting device via a communication network and capable of communicating with the component mounting device; a tape waste transport device that transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location; and a coordinating device capable of communicating between the higher-level system and the tape waste transport control unit of the tape waste transport device.

6. The mounting system according to claim 5, wherein the higher-level system commands the component mounting device to start production and commands the coordinating device to start operation of the tape waste transport device.

7. The implementation system according to claim 6, wherein the coordinating device commands the tape waste transport control unit to start operation based on the command to start operation from the higher-level system, and the tape waste transport control unit starts a program to operate the tape waste transport device based on the command to start operation.

8. The mounting system according to claim 7, further comprising a warning unit that notifies the notification unit if the tape waste transport device has not started operating after the component mounting device has started production.

9. Tape waste transport device, which is installed alongside a mounting line that includes at least one component mounting device that mounts components removed from a carrier tape onto a substrate and discharges the empty carrier tape as tape waste, and transports the tape waste generated by the component mounting device to a collection location, comprising a transport unit for transporting the tape waste and a tape waste transport control unit for controlling the operation of the transport unit, wherein the tape waste transport control unit starts a program for operating the transport unit based on a command to start operation from a coordinating device that can communicate with the component mounting device and the tape waste transport control unit.

10. The tape waste transport control unit has a timer that reserves the time or duration for the start of operation, and when the tape waste transport control unit is unable to receive the command to start operation from the cooperating device, it starts operation based on the time or duration reserved in the timer, as described in claim 9.

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