Top discharge unit for apparatus for automatic discharge of ingot top / tail
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/KR2025/013065
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-04-15
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-22
Smart Images
Figure KR2025013065_22102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Top discharge section of the automatic ingot top-tail discharge device
[0001] The present invention relates to a top discharge section of an automatic ingot top-tail discharge device that cuts and discharges the top and tail of an ingot used in the production of semiconductors or solar substrates without damaging the body.
[0002] Ingots used in the semiconductor or solar power industries are generally manufactured using the Czochralski (CZ) method. FIG. 1 is an example diagram illustrating an example of an ingot (10) manufactured by the Czochralski method.
[0003] An ingot is a single-crystal mass made using silicon or other semiconductor materials, which is then thinly sliced to produce a substrate. At this time, the top (11) and tail (15) at both ends of the ingot are cut off, and only the body (13) portion is cut off and used as a substrate. The reason for separating the top (11) and tail (15) is that the ends of the ingot (10) may have defects or an incomplete crystal structure.
[0004] When separating the top (11) and tail (15) from the ingot (10), cutting is performed by a cutting machine at the cutting section shown by the dotted line. However, when the top (11) and tail (15) are cut and separated from the body (13), they fall down due to the weight of the top (11) and tail (15) themselves, creating scratches on the surface of the body (13) as shown in FIG. 2, which caused a problem of defects in the body (13).
[0005] The present invention was created to improve the above-mentioned problems, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a top discharge section of an automatic ingot top-tail discharge device that cuts and discharges the top and tail of an ingot used in the production of semiconductors or solar substrates without damaging the body.
[0006] The top discharge section of the ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention comprises: a top base coupled to a top transfer robot; a top holder section coupled to the top base, having a receiving space formed to accommodate a cut top, and formed in a shape that expands from the top base side toward the ingot side placed in the cutting section; a top support member disposed to support the lower side of the top of the top at the lower side of the top holder section; and a top fixing section coupled to the top base, which presses the cut surface of the top while raising the top after the body of the ingot and the top are cut.
[0007] The above top base can be coupled to the above top holder while supporting the above top fixing part.
[0008] The top holder portion may include a front top holder surrounding the perimeter of the largest diameter portion of the conical top; and a rear top holder coupled to the front top holder and supported after the remaining portion of the top is inserted.
[0009] The above-mentioned front top holder has an opening formed on its lower side, and the top support can support the lower side of the top at the lower side of the opening of the above-mentioned front top holder.
[0010] The above-mentioned front top holder is formed in an arc shape, and the length of the opening may be formed to be smaller than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the above-mentioned front top holder.
[0011] A front protective gasket may be installed on the inner surface of the above-mentioned front top holder at the portion in contact with the outer surface of the top.
[0012] A rear protective gasket may be installed on the inner surface of the rear top holder at the portion in contact with the outer surface of the top.
[0013] A through hole may be formed on the rear side of the above rear top holder so that a seed, which is the part with the smallest diameter of the top, can pass through.
[0014] The rear top holder may include: a rear through-hole portion formed in a disc shape and having the through-hole portion formed therein; a plurality of support portions spreading radially from the rear through-hole portion toward the front top holder; and a connecting ring portion formed in an annular shape to connect the ends of the plurality of support portions.
[0015] An inclined surface may be formed on the above-mentioned tower base so as to contact the outer surface of the tower.
[0016] The above-described tower fixing part may include: a tower fixing cylinder mounted on the tower base; a tower rotating bar coupled to the rod of the tower fixing cylinder and rotating in an up-and-down direction around the rod; and a tower pressure roller part installed on the tower rotating bar facing the tower fixing cylinder side.
[0017] The above-mentioned tower pressure roller part can apply pressure to the cut surface of the tower when it rises to a certain height after the tower is cut from the body of the ingot.
[0018] The above-mentioned top fixing part is fixed to the upper side of the top base and can be supported by the upper side of the outer surface of the top holder part.
[0019] The above tower transfer robot may include a Y-axis transfer robot to which the tower base is coupled; a Z-axis transfer robot coupled to the Y-axis transfer robot; and an X-axis transfer robot coupled to the Z-axis transfer robot.
[0020] According to the present invention, since the tower is separated and discharged by the tower discharge unit during the tower cutting process, labor can be reduced through automation.
[0021] In addition, according to the present invention, a front top holder is formed with an opening on its lower side, and a top support is positioned at the bottom of the top below the opening of the front top holder to support the inclined surface of the top, thereby preventing the top from tipping over or sliding due to its own weight during the cutting process.
[0022] According to the present invention, the tower can be fixed and then transported without applying direct force to the body while the tower and tail are being moved.
[0023] In addition, according to the present invention, since the cut surfaces of the body and tail can be prevented from being damaged or broken, the occurrence of foreign substances near the cut surfaces of the body and tail can be suppressed.
[0024] In addition, according to the present invention, a fixed clamp performs the role of fixing the tail side when cutting the ingot, and a movable clamp performs the role of holding the ingot at a changed cutting position according to the change in the shape of the tail or the cutting position in the ingot.
[0025] In addition, according to the present invention, the bottom support is fixed by a clamp and positioned at the bottom of the tower to support the inclined surface, thereby preventing the tower from tipping over or sliding due to its own weight during the cutting process.
[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a typical ingot.
[0027] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a damaged ingot.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the tower discharge section and tower transfer robot of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a schematic side view illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a tower discharge section according to the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the top holder portion of the top discharge portion according to the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a side view schematically illustrating the state in which the tower fixing part is moved to the cutting position of the tower in the tower discharge part according to the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view illustrating the state in which the tower fixing part is moved to the cutting position of the tower in the tower discharge part according to the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a front view schematically illustrating the state of raising a tower with a cut tower discharge section according to the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 13 is a front view schematically illustrating the state in which a tower discharge unit according to the present invention is rotated to press the cut surface of the tower after raising the cut tower.
[0039] FIG. 14 is a side view schematically illustrating the state in which a tower discharge unit according to the present invention is rotated to press the cut surface of the tower after raising the cut tower.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the tail discharge section and tail transfer robot of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0041] FIGS. 16 to 18 are schematic perspective views illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 19 is a schematic plan view illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 20 is a front view schematically illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state in which the moving clamp is moved in the tail discharge section according to the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 22 is a front view schematically illustrating the state in which the moving clamp of the tail fixing part according to the present invention presses the cutting position of the tail.
[0046] FIG. 23 is a front view schematically illustrating the state in which the tail discharge unit according to the present invention begins to separate the cut tail.
[0047] FIG. 24 is a side view schematically illustrating the state in which the tail pressure roller part of the tail fixing part in the tail discharge part according to the present invention presses the pressure surface of the tail after the tail has been raised to a certain height.
[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In this process, the thickness of lines or the size of components depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined considering their functions in the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intention or convention of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the content throughout this specification.
[0049] Furthermore, in this specification, when a part is described as being "connected (or joined)" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected (or joined)" but also cases where they are "indirectly connected (or joined)" with other members interposed between them. In this specification, when a part is described as "including (or having) a certain component," this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may additionally "include (or have)" other components.
[0050] Furthermore, throughout this specification, the same reference numerals may refer to the same components. Even if the same or similar reference numerals are not mentioned or described in a specific drawing, they may be described based on other drawings. Additionally, even if a part is not indicated by a reference numeral in a specific drawing, that part may be described based on other drawings. Furthermore, the number, shape, size, and relative differences in size of the detailed components included in the drawings of this application are set for ease of understanding and do not limit the embodiments, and may be implemented in various forms.
[0051] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a frame (not shown), a top discharge section (100), and a tail discharge section (200). According to the present invention, a structure in which three croppers are applied to one ingot top-tail automatic discharge device is illustrated, but is not limited thereto.
[0053] A plurality of cutting sections (20) are arranged in the frame, and an ingot (10) can be loaded. The frame may include a first frame in which a top discharge section (100) moves and a second frame in which a tail discharge section (200) moves. Such a frame may be manufactured in various shapes.
[0054] In the ingot (10), a tower (13) may be positioned on one side in the longitudinal direction and a tail (15) may be positioned on the other side in the longitudinal direction. The tower (13) of the ingot (10) is positioned at a fixed location on the frame and has a relatively fixed shape. On the other hand, the tail (15) of the ingot (10) may have a position that varies in the frame depending on the length of the ingot (10) and has a relatively diverse shape. Accordingly, the tower discharge unit (100) can discharge the tower (13) at a fixed location, and the tail discharge unit (200) can have its position changed in various ways depending on the length and shape of the tail (15), and its operation can be changed depending on the shape of the tail (15).
[0055] The ingot top-tail automatic discharge device (1) cuts the top (13) and tail (15) by the cutting unit (20) while the top (13) and tail (15) are fixed by the top discharge unit (100) and the tail discharge unit (200). During the cutting process of the cutting unit (20), the top (13) and tail (15) are separated and discharged by the top discharge unit (100) and the tail discharge unit (200), thereby reducing labor through automation.
[0056] In particular, since the cutting part (20) cuts while spraying water, a water film is formed on the cutting area to protect the cutting surface.
[0057] Accordingly, the ingot top-tail automatic discharge device (1) according to the present invention is an auxiliary device additionally installed in the existing cutting section (Cropper), and can automatically collect the cut top (13) and tail (15) into a top collection container (not shown) and a tail collection container. Accordingly, the working time of workers can be significantly shortened, the defect rate of the ingot (10) can be significantly reduced, and the wafer slicing work efficiency can be improved.
[0058] The frame is provided in the form of a bed having a certain width and length, and an ingot (10) is loaded on the upper surface. The frame may be provided with a plurality of cutting sections (20) (Croppers) along the longitudinal direction. A plurality of cutting sections (20) are provided in the boundary area between the top (13) and the tail (15), and in the remaining area. The cutting sections (20) cut the ingot (10) while spraying water.
[0059] Below, we will first explain the top discharge section (100) and then explain the tail discharge section (200).
[0060] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the top discharge section and the top transfer robot of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 6 is a schematic side view illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the top discharge section according to the present invention, FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the top holder section of the top discharge section according to the present invention, FIG. 10 is a schematic side view illustrating the state in which the top fixing section of the top discharge section according to the present invention moves to the cutting position of the top.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 10, the top discharge section (100) of the ingot top-tail automatic discharge device (1) according to the present invention may include a top base (110), a top holder section (130), a top support (140), and a top fixing section (150).
[0062] The top base (110) can be coupled to the tower transfer robot (120). The top base (110) can be formed in a block shape so as to be coupled to the tower transfer robot (120). The upper surface of the top base (110) can have a flat surface shape.
[0063] The tower transfer robot (120) can receive and discharge the tower (13) cut from the ingot (10) while being transferred in various directions on the first table. The tower transfer robot (120) may include a Y-axis transfer robot (121) to which the tower base (110) is coupled, a Z-axis transfer robot (122) coupled to the Y-axis transfer robot (121), and an X-axis transfer robot (123) coupled to the Z-axis transfer robot (122). Various forms, such as linear motors that move three or more axes to fix and discharge the tower (13), may be applied to the Y-axis transfer robot (121), Z-axis transfer robot (122), and X-axis transfer robot (123).
[0064] The top holder (130) is coupled to the top base (110), and a receiving space is formed to accommodate the cut top (13). It can be formed in a shape that widens as it extends from the side of the top base (110) toward the side of the ingot (10) placed in the cutting section (20). The top (13) of the ingot (10) is formed in a conical shape overall, and a seed (14) can be formed thinly and long at the tip of the conical shape. Therefore, in the case of this embodiment, since one piece of equipment is configured to handle three cutting sections (Croppers), the top holder (130) can be used to support the inclined surface of the top support (140) during cutting. During the cutting process, the top holder (130) can be used at other cutting sections. After the cutting is finished, the top holder (130) returns to the cutting section (Cropper) where the cutting is completed, picks up the top support (140) and the top (13), and returns them. This top holder part (130) can receive and fix the top (13) before cutting the top (13) from the ingot (10), and after the top (13) is cut, it can perform the function of discharging the top (13) to the outside of the frame.
[0065] The top support (140) may be positioned to support the lower side of the top (13) on the lower side of the top holder (130). The top support (140) may be coupled to the lower side of the top holder (130) to stably support the lower side of the top (13). This top support (140) is configured to be separable from the top discharge section (100) and may be provided in multiple numbers and positioned in each line where the cutting section (20) is installed.
[0066] An inclined surface (141) may be formed on the top support (140) to contact the outer surface of the top (13). The inclined surface (141) gently pushes the top (13) up when the top (13) is inserted into the top holder (130), thereby allowing it to be stably inserted into the top holder (130). Additionally, it prevents damage to the outer surface of the top (13), thereby suppressing the generation of foreign matter caused by friction.
[0067] The tower fixing unit (150) separates the tower (13) and the body (11) in the vertical direction as the Y-axis transfer robot (121) moves upward, and when the separation distance is sufficiently wide, the tower fixing unit (150) rotates to press the cut surface of the tower (13) so that the tower (13) is completely fixed, and the separation process is completed as the Z-axis transfer robot (122) moves backward. At this time, since it is difficult to separate the tower (13) and the body (11) due to the adhesive force of the water film, the tower fixing unit (150) presses the tower (13) when lifting the tower (13) to make it easier to separate it from the body (11). Additionally, when the tower fixing unit (150) rises, it has the effect of preventing damage to the cut surface or suppressing the generation of foreign substances caused by this.
[0068] The top base (110) can be coupled to the top holder part (130) while supporting the top fixing part (150). The top base (110) fixes the top discharge part (100) to the top transfer robot (120) and fixes the position of the top holder part (130) and the top fixing part (150). In addition, the top base (110) prevents the position of the top holder part (130) and the top fixing part (150) from changing through a bracket structure, etc., so that the top holder part (130) can be positioned at the fixed position of the top (13) and the top fixing part (150) can accurately press near the cut surface of the body (11) of the ingot (10).
[0069] The top holder portion (130) may include a front top holder (131) and a rear top holder (133). Here, the front is the portion of the top holder portion (130) facing the ingot (10), and the rear is the portion facing the opposite side of the ingot (10).
[0070] The front top holder (131) may be formed to surround the perimeter of the largest diameter portion of the conical top (13). The front top holder (131) is the portion closest to the cut surface of the top (13) when the top (13) is cut.
[0071] The rear top holder (133) is coupled to the front top holder (131) and can be supported after the remaining part (rear side part) of the top (13) is inserted. The rear top holder (133) can perform the role of maintaining the axis center of the top holder part (130) to prevent the axis center of the conical top (13) from being twisted or changed position. That is, if the axis center of the top (13) inserted and fixed in the rear top holder (133) is changed position, the cutting surface may be twisted when the top (13) and the body (11) are cut. Therefore, the front top holder (131) can withstand the cutting pressure of the top (13), and the rear top holder (133) can perform the role of maintaining the fixed position of the top (13).
[0072] The front top holder (131) has an opening formed on its lower side, and the top support (140) can support the lower side of the top (13) from the lower side of the opening of the front top holder (131). The top support (140) acts as a guide to push the top (13) up toward the front top holder (131) when the top (13) is inserted into the front top holder (131) while in a slightly changed position, and the front top holder (131) can act to accurately fix the position of the top (13) when the top (13) is fully inserted into the top holder part (130). Therefore, the front top holder (131) is not circular, and the front top holder (131) and the top support (140) are installed individually.
[0073] The front top holder (131) is formed in an arc shape, and the length of the opening may be formed to be smaller than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the front top holder (131). If the length of the opening is formed to be larger than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the front top holder (131), the fixing force of the top (13) of the front top holder (131) is weakened, which may cause a change in the position of the top (13) when fixing and cutting the top (13).
[0074] A front protective gasket (132) may be installed on the inner side of the front top holder (131) at the portion that contacts the outer side of the top (13). The front protective gasket (132) may be formed in an arc shape to surround the front perimeter of the front top holder (131). The front protective gasket (132) may be made of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene: Teflon-based). Since the front protective gasket (132) is made of a material that has a certain cushioning effect while also being excellent for friction, it can prevent the outer side of the top (13) from being impacted or damaged by the front top holder (131). Furthermore, it can prevent foreign substances from being generated due to damage or breakage of the top (13).
[0075] A rear protective gasket (134) may be installed on the inner side of the rear top holder (133) at the portion that contacts the outer side of the top (13). The rear protective gasket (134) may be formed in the shape of a circular ring to surround the front circumference of the rear top holder (133). The rear protective gasket (134) may be made of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene: Teflon-based). Since the rear protective gasket (134) is made of a material that has a certain cushioning effect while also being excellent in friction, it can prevent the outer side of the top (13) from being impacted or damaged by the rear top holder (133). Furthermore, it can prevent foreign substances from being generated due to damage or breakage of the top (13).
[0076] Since the front protective gasket (132) and the rear protective gasket (134) are installed slightly higher than the inner surfaces of the front top holder (131) and the rear top holder (133), it is possible to prevent the inner surfaces of the front top holder (131) and the rear top holder (133) from coming into full surface contact with the outer surface of the top (13) when the top (13) is fully inserted into the top holder part (130). Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from being generated on the outer surface of the top (13) due to friction.
[0077] A through hole (136) may be formed on the rear side of the rear top holder (133) so that a seed (14), which is the smallest diameter part of the top (13), can pass through. Since the through hole (136) accurately guides the position of the seed (14), the position of the seed (14) is prevented from changing, and the top (13) can be fixed in the correct position of the top holder part (130). In addition, the top (13) is prevented from being damaged when inserted into the top holder part (130), thereby suppressing the generation of foreign matter.
[0078] The rear top holder (133) may include a rear through-hole portion (136) formed therein and a disc-shaped rear through-hole portion (135), a plurality of supporter portions (137) that spread radially from the rear through-hole portion (135) toward the front top holder (131), and a connecting ring portion (138) formed in an annular shape to connect the ends of the plurality of supporter portions (137).
[0079] FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a tower discharge unit of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention; FIG. 10 is a side view schematically illustrating a state in which a tower fixing unit moves to a cutting position of a tower in the tower discharge unit according to the present invention; FIG. 11 is a plan view schematically illustrating a state in which a tower fixing unit moves to a cutting position of a tower in the tower discharge unit according to the present invention; FIG. 12 is a front view schematically illustrating a state in which a tower discharge unit according to the present invention raises a cut tower; FIG. 13 is a front view schematically illustrating a state in which a tower discharge unit according to the present invention rotates to press the cut surface of a tower after raising a cut tower; and FIG. 14 is a side view schematically illustrating a state in which a tower discharge unit according to the present invention rotates to press the cut surface of a tower after raising a cut tower.
[0080] Referring to FIGS. 5, 10 to 14, the tower fixing part (150) may include a tower fixing cylinder (151), a tower rotating bar (153), and a tower pressure roller part (154).
[0081] The top fixing cylinder (151) can be mounted on the top base (110). The top fixing cylinder (151) can reciprocate the rod (152) while rotating it around the axis of the rod (152). For example, the top fixing cylinder (151) can reciprocate the rod (152) while rotating it by hydraulic or pneumatic pressure. Additionally, a hollow motor can be installed inside the top fixing cylinder (151).
[0082] The top rotation bar (153) is coupled to the rod (152) of the top fixing cylinder (151) and can be rotated up and down around the rod (152). The top rotation bar (153) is installed vertically on the rod (152), and the length of the top rotation bar (153) can be changed according to the diameter of the ingot (10). The top rotation bar (153) is rotated upward so as not to catch on the top (13) when the top (13) of the ingot (10) is inserted into the top holder part (130), and can be rotated toward the cut surface of the top (13) after the top (13) is cut.
[0083] The tower pressure roller section (154) can be installed facing the tower fixing cylinder (151) from the tower rotating bar (153). Accordingly, when the tower (13) is raised to a certain height from the cut surface of the body (11) after being cut, the tower pressure roller section (154) can press and fix the cut surface of the tower (13).
[0084] The top fixing part (150) is fixed to the upper side of the top base (110) and can be supported by the upper side of the outer surface of the top holder part (130). At this time, the top fixing cylinder (151) of the top fixing part (150) can be supported by the top base (110) and the top holder part (130).
[0085] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the top (13) of the ingot (10) is completely inserted and fixed into the top holder part (130), and the top (13) of the ingot (10) is cut by the cutting part (20). When the top holder part (130) is separated while being slightly raised by the top transfer robot (120), the top (13) slides slightly upward from the cut surface and rises. When the top holder part (130) raises the top (13) to a certain height, the rod (152) of the top fixing part (150) moves and rotates, and the top pressure roller part (154) presses and fixes the cut surface of the top (13).
[0086]
[0087] Next, the tail discharge section according to the present invention will be described.
[0088] FIG. 15 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the tail discharge section and tail transfer robot of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 16 to 18 are perspective views schematically illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, FIG. 19 is a plan view schematically illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention, and FIG. 20 is a front view schematically illustrating the tail discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device according to the present invention.
[0089] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 20, the tail discharge section (200) of the ingot top-tail automatic discharge device (1) according to the present invention may include a tail base (210), a clamp moving section (230), a tail support (240), a fixed clamp (250), a clamp driving section (260), a moving clamp (270), and a tail fixing section (280).
[0090] As described above, the tail (15) of the ingot (10) can have various lengths depending on the length of the ingot (10), and the shape of the tail (15) can also have various shapes. Accordingly, the cutting position of the tail (15) can be changed according to the length of the ingot (10), and the fixed position and cutting surface of the tail (15) can also be changed according to the shape and length of the tail (15). The present invention can provide a tail discharge unit (200) capable of responding to changes in the cutting position, fixed position, and cutting surface of the tail (15).
[0091] The tail base (210) can be coupled to the tail transfer robot (220). The tail base (210) can be formed in a block shape so as to be coupled to the tail transfer robot (220). The upper surface of the tail base (210) can have a flat surface shape.
[0092] The tail transfer robot (220) can receive and discharge the tail (15) cut from the ingot (10) while being transferred in various directions on the second table. The tail transfer robot (220) may include a Y-axis transfer robot (221) to which the tail base (210) is coupled, a Z-axis transfer robot (222) coupled to the Y-axis transfer robot (221), and an X-axis transfer robot (223) coupled to the Z-axis transfer robot (222). Various forms, such as linear motors that move three or more axes to fix and discharge the tail (15), may be applied to the Y-axis transfer robot (221), Z-axis transfer robot (222), and X-axis transfer robot (223).
[0093] The clamp moving part (230) can be connected to the tail base (210). The clamp moving part (230) can be applied in various forms as long as it moves the clamp driving part (260) to a fixed position according to the cutting position of the tail (15) and the shape of the tail (15).
[0094] The clamp moving part (230) can be connected to the tail base (210) in the form of a flat plate. Thus, the clamp driving part (260) can be moved by the clamp moving part (230) to the cutting position of the tail (15). The clamp moving part (230) may be an air cylinder that moves the clamp driving part (260) by air.
[0095] The tail support (240) is fixed to the lower side of the tail base (210) with a clamping cylinder and is positioned at the bottom of the tail to support the tail (15) during the cutting process.
[0096] A tail bevel surface (241) may be formed on the tail support (240) to contact the outer surface of the tail (15). The tail bevel surface (241) allows the tail (15) to be gently pushed up and stably inserted when supported on the tail support (240). Additionally, it prevents damage to the outer surface of the tail (15), thereby suppressing the generation of foreign matter due to friction.
[0097] The fixed clamp (250) is coupled to the clamp moving part (230) so as to be positioned on the upper side of the tail support (240) and can be formed to surround the circumference of the tail (15). A receiving space may be formed in the fixed clamp (250) to receive the tail (15). The tail (15) of the ingot (10) may be formed in a conical shape overall. The fixed clamp (250) is moved by the tail transfer robot (220) according to the length of the ingot (10) to fix the tail (15) of the ingot (10). That is, the fixed clamp (250) performs the role of holding the tail (15) of the ingot (10) so that its position is not changed.
[0098] The clamp drive unit (260) may be installed to be reciprocally movable on the upper side of the clamp moving unit (230). The clamp drive unit (260) may be an air cylinder driven by air.
[0099] The movable clamp (270) is positioned on each side of the clamp drive unit (260) and can be pressed against the outer surface of the tail (15) by the clamp drive unit (260). The movable clamp (270) can be formed in a rounded shape to be pressed against the outer surface of the tail (15). The movable clamp (270) moves near the cutting surface of the tail (15) to restrain the tail (15) when the cutting position changes according to the length or shape of the tail (15) in the ingot (10). That is, the fixed clamp (250) performs the role of fixing the tail (15) side when cutting the ingot (10), and the movable clamp (270) performs the role of holding the ingot (10) at the cutting position changed according to the shape or cutting position of the tail (15) in the ingot (10).
[0100] The tail fixing part (280) separates the tail (15) and the body (11) in the vertical direction as the Y-axis transfer robot (221) moves upward, and when the separation distance is sufficiently wide, the tail fixing part (280) rotates to press the cut surface of the tail (15) so that the tail (15) is completely fixed, and the separation process is completed as the Z-axis transfer robot (222) moves backward. At this time, since it is difficult to separate the tail (15) and the body (11) due to the adhesive force of the water film, the tail fixing part (280) presses the tail (15) when lifting the tail (15) to make it easier to separate from the body (11). Additionally, when the tail fixing part (280) rises, it has the effect of preventing damage to the cut surface or suppressing the generation of foreign substances caused by this.
[0101] The fixing clamp (250) has an opening formed on its lower side, and the tail support (240) can support the lower side of the tail (15) at the lower side of the opening of the fixing clamp (250). The tail support (240) acts as a guide to push the tail (15) upward toward the fixing clamp (250) when the tail (15) is inserted into the fixing clamp (250) while in a slightly changed position, and the fixing clamp (250) can act to accurately fix the position of the tail (15) when the tail (15) is fully inserted into the fixing clamp (250). Therefore, the fixing clamp (250) is not circular, and the fixing clamp (250) and the tail support (240) are installed individually.
[0102] The fixed clamp (250) is formed in an arc shape, and the length of the opening may be formed to be smaller than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the fixed clamp (250). If the length of the opening is formed to be larger than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the fixed clamp (250), the fixing force of the tail (15) of the fixed clamp (250) is weakened, which may cause a change in the position of the tail (15) when the tail (15) is cut.
[0103] The axial cross-section of the fixing clamp (250) can be formed in an "L" shape. One bent side of the fixing clamp (250) faces inward. Since the cross-section of the fixing clamp (250) is formed in a bent shape, the rigidity of the fixing clamp (250) can be significantly increased. In addition, the part bent inward of the fixing clamp (250) is in close contact with the outer surface of the tail (15), and the tail support (240) pushes up the lower side of the tail (15), thereby preventing the tail (15) from changing position.
[0104] A clamp protection gasket (251) may be installed on the inner surface of the fixing clamp (250) at the portion that contacts the outer surface of the tail (15). The clamp protection gasket (251) may be formed in an arc shape to surround the circumference of the fixing clamp (250). The clamp protection gasket (251) may be made of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene: Teflon-based). Since the clamp protection gasket (251) is made of a material that has a certain cushioning effect while being excellent in friction, it can prevent the outer surface of the tail (15) from being impacted or damaged by the fixing clamp (250). Furthermore, it can prevent foreign matter from being generated due to damage or breakage of the tail (15).
[0105] The clamp drive unit (260) may include a drive base (261) that is moved by the clamp drive unit (260), and one or more drive cylinders (263) mounted on the drive base (261) and driving a moving clamp (270). The drive base (261) may be formed in the shape of a square plate so as to be parallel to the clamp moving unit (230). The drive cylinder (263) may be an air cylinder driven by air. Two drive cylinders (263) may be installed so that each moving clamp (270) can be driven individually. For example, one drive cylinder (263) may drive a moving clamp (270) on one side, and the other drive cylinder (263) may drive a moving clamp (270) on the other side.
[0106] The tail fixing part (280) can be installed on the movable clamp (270). At this time, the tail fixing part (280) can be installed on each movable clamp (270) positioned on both sides of the clamp driving part (260).
[0107] The moving clamp (270) may include a moving panel (271) and a moving gripper (272).
[0108] The movable panels (271) are each positioned on both sides of the drive base (261) and can be connected to the drive cylinder (263) so as to be moved to both sides of the drive base (261) by the drive cylinder (263). The movable panels (271) are installed in an upright position on both sides of the drive base (261) and can be spread outward or gathered toward the drive base (261) by the drive cylinder (263).
[0109] The movable gripper (272) may be connected to the movable panel (271). The movable gripper (272) may compress the ingot (10) or detach from the ingot (10) as it is spread apart or gathered by the movable panel (271). The movable gripper (272) may be formed rounded so as to be in close contact with the outer surface of the ingot (10). The movable gripper (272) moves near the cutting surface of the tail (15) to restrain the tail (15) when the cutting position changes according to the length or shape of the tail (15) in the ingot (10).
[0110] The tail fixing part (280) may include a tail fixing cylinder (281), a tail rotating bar (283), and a tail pressure roller part (284).
[0111] The tail fixing cylinder (281) may be positioned on at least one side of the clamp drive unit (260). The tail fixing cylinder (281) may reciprocate the rod (282) while rotating it around the axis of the rod (282). For example, the tail fixing cylinder (281) may reciprocate the rod (282) by hydraulic or pneumatic pressure and rotate by an internal hollow motor.
[0112] The tail rotation bar (283) is coupled to the rod (282) of the tail fixing cylinder (281) and can be rotated up and down around the rod (282). The tail rotation bar (283) is installed vertically on the rod (282), and the length of the tail rotation bar (283) can be changed according to the diameter of the ingot (10). The tail rotation bar (283) is rotated upward so as not to catch on the ingot (10) when the tail (15) of the ingot (10) is inserted into the fixing clamp (250), and can be moved toward the cut surface of the tail (15) after the tail (15) is cut.
[0113] The tail pressure roller section (284) can be installed facing the tail fixing cylinder (281) from the tail rotating bar (283). Accordingly, when the tail (15) is raised to a certain height from the cut surface of the body (11) after being cut, the tail pressure roller section (284) can press and fix the cut surface of the tail (15).
[0114] FIG. 21 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a state in which a movable clamp is moved in a tail discharge unit according to the present invention, FIG. 22 is a front view schematically illustrating a state in which a movable clamp of a tail fixing unit according to the present invention presses the cutting position of a tail, FIG. 23 is a front view schematically illustrating a state in which a tail discharge unit according to the present invention begins to separate a cut tail, and FIG. 24 is a side view schematically illustrating a state in which a tail pressure roller unit of a tail fixing unit according to the present invention presses the pressure surface of a tail after the tail has been raised to a certain height.
[0115] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, when the cutting surface moves away from the tail (15) of the ingot (10), the movable clamp (270) is moved from the fixed clamp (250) to the cutting position. At this time, the movable clamp (270) is spaced a certain distance from the fixed clamp (250). Additionally, the movable clamp (270) is spaced away from the ingot (10) until it is moved to the cutting position.
[0116] When the moving clamp (270) reaches the cutting position of the ingot (10), the driving cylinder (263) gathers the moving clamp (270) toward the ingot (10) as shown in FIG. 22. When the tail (15) of the ingot (10) is cut by the cutting part (20), the tail pressure roller part (284) moves near the cutting surface of the body (11) as the rod (152) of the tail fixing part (280) moves. When the tail fixing part (280) is separated while being slightly raised by the tail transfer robot (220), the tail (15) slides slightly upward from the cutting surface (difference between the solid and dotted lines in FIG. 23). At this time, when the tail (15) is raised to a certain height, the rod (282) of the tail fixing part (280) moves and rotates, and the tail pressure roller part (284) presses and fixes the cut surface of the tail (15).
[0117] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the illustrated drawings, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and it is obvious that various modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, even if the effects of the configuration according to the present invention were not explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention above, it is natural to acknowledge that the effects predictable by said configuration should also be recognized.
Claims
1. A tower base coupled to a tower transfer robot; A top holder portion that is coupled to the top base, has a receiving space formed to accommodate a cut top, and is formed in a shape that expands from the top base side toward the ingot side placed at the cut section; A tower support member positioned to support the lower side of the tower on the lower side of the top holder portion; and A tower discharge unit of an ingot top tail automatic discharge device, characterized by including: a tower fixing unit coupled to the top base and pressing the cut surface of the tower while raising the tower after the body and tower of the ingot are cut.
2. In Paragraph 1, A top discharge part of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that the top base supports the top fixing part and is coupled to the top holder part.
3. In Paragraph 1, The above top holder part is, A front tower holder surrounding the perimeter of the largest diameter part of the conical tower; and A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device characterized by including a rear top holder coupled to the front top holder and supported after the remaining part of the top is inserted.
4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned front top holder has an opening formed on the lower side, and The top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that the top support supports the lower side of the top at the lower side of the opening of the front top holder.
5. In Paragraph 4, The above-mentioned front top holder is formed in an arc shape, and A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that the length of the opening is formed to be smaller than 1 / 3 of the arc length of the front top holder.
6. In Paragraph 4, A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that a front protective gasket is installed on the inner surface of the front top holder in the portion that contacts the outer surface of the top.
7. In Paragraph 4, A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that a rear protective gasket is installed on the inner surface of the rear top holder in the portion that contacts the outer surface of the top.
8. In Paragraph 4, A top discharge part of an ingot top tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that a through hole is formed on the rear side of the rear top holder so that a seed, which is the part with the smallest diameter in the top, passes through.
9. In Paragraph 8, The above rear top holder is, The above-mentioned through hole is formed, and the rear through-hole is formed in a disc shape; A plurality of support members spreading radially from the rear penetration portion toward the front top holder; and A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device characterized by including a connecting ring section formed in an annular shape to connect the ends of the plurality of support sections.
10. In Paragraph 1, A tower discharge part of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device, characterized in that the tower base has an inclined surface formed thereon to contact the outer surface of the tower.
11. In Paragraph 1, The above tower fixing part is, A tower fixing cylinder installed on the above-mentioned top base; A tower rotating bar coupled to the rod of the tower fixing cylinder and rotating in an up-and-down direction around the rod; and A top discharge section of an ingot top tail automatic discharge device characterized by including a top pressure roller section installed toward the top fixing cylinder side on the top rotating bar.
12. In Paragraph 11, The tower discharge part of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device is characterized by the tower pressure roller part applying pressure to the cut surface of the tower when it rises to a certain height after the tower is cut from the body of the ingot.
13. In Paragraph 1, The top discharge part of an ingot top tail automatic discharge device is characterized in that the top fixing part is fixed to the upper side of the top base and supported by the upper side of the outer surface of the top holder part.
14. In Paragraph 1, The above tower transfer robot is, A Y-axis transfer robot to which the above top base is coupled; A Z-axis transfer robot coupled to the above Y-axis transfer robot; and A top discharge section of an ingot top-tail automatic discharge device characterized by including an X-axis transfer robot coupled to the Z-axis transfer robot.