Carrier Tape Feeder Release Mechanism for Automatic Tape Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional tape feeders require manual operation for switching between preceding and subsequent tapes, leading to potential errors and reduced productivity, as well as difficulty in automating the component supply process.
Innovation Solution
A component supply apparatus with a tape conveying path and a tape holding releasing mechanism that automates the transition between carrier tapes using the motivity of a driving source, such as a motor, to ensure seamless and automated tape exchange without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used for switching between preceding and subsequent tapes, then the worker can control the tape release, but the worker may forget to execute the tape release work and productivity is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting when the preceding tape is exhausted and releasing it onto the second conveying route without worker intervention. The controller monitors tape status and autonomously executes the release operation, eliminating human forgetfulness while maintaining operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller receives feedback from sensors that detect the presence and status of carrier tapes. When the preceding tape is detected as exhausted, the controller processes this information and automatically triggers the release mechanism, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures timely tape switching.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for switching between preceding and subsequent tapes, then the worker can correct the position of the preceding tape, but it is difficult to automate the supply process and reduce workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of tape release and position correction with an automated mechanism. The release mechanism, driven by the motor's motivity, automatically transfers the preceding tape from the first conveying route to the second conveying route, eliminating the need for worker intervention while maintaining precise position control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting when the preceding tape is exhausted and releasing it onto the second conveying route without worker intervention. The controller monitors tape status and autonomously executes the release operation, eliminating human forgetfulness while maintaining operational control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tape holding unit is designed to hold the subsequent tape, then the subsequent tape can be replenished, but the structure becomes more complex and requires additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The first conveying route serves multiple functions: it acts as both the active conveying path for component supply and as a holding position for the subsequent tape. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate holding unit, reducing structural complexity while maintaining the ability to replenish tapes seamlessly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the holding function with the conveying route itself. The subsequent tape is held in position on the first conveying route, combining the holding and conveying functions into a single integrated structure, thereby simplifying the overall system design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances productivity by automating the component supply process, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing downtime due to tape switching errors.
Implementation Method 1
a tape holding releasing mechanism that causes the carrier tape held by the tape holding part to drop from the first conveying route onto the second conveying route, and the tape holding releasing mechanism operates by using the motivity of the driving source of the second tape conveying part
Data Source
AI summary
A component supply apparatus includes a tape conveying path that includes, both on an upstream side thereof: a first conveying route into which a carrier tape is inserted; and a second conveying route that is positioned under the first conveying route, the first conveying route and the second conveying route joining each other to guide traveling of the carrier tape in a downstream direction, a first tape conveying part that sequentially conveys the carrier tape in the tape conveying path present more downstream than a position at which the first conveying route and the second conveying route join each other, to a component taking out position in the tape conveying path, a tape holding part that holds the carrier tape in at least a portion of the first conveying route, a second tape conveying part that conveys the carrier tape held by the tape holding part, in the downstream direction of the tape conveying path, a tape holding releasing mechanism that causes the carrier tape held by the tape holding part to drop from the first conveying route onto the second conveying route. The tape holding releasing mechanism operates by using motivity of a driving source of the second tape conveying part.