Integrated Label Feeder for Continuous Irregular-Component Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional label suppliers in irregular component inserters increase the volume of the inserter, reducing space utilization and require operation stops for label changes, leading to decreased productivity.
Innovation Solution
A label feeder installed on a hybrid irregular component insertion robot that prints and supplies labels in real time, reducing the need for space and enabling continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an automatic label supplier is disposed between the electronic component supply device and irregular component mounting equipment, then labels can be supplied to the irregular component inserter, but the volume of the irregular component inserter increases and space utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The label feeder is integrated directly onto the irregular component inserter body, merging the label supply function with the inserter structure. This eliminates the need for a separate automatic label supplier unit, thereby reducing the overall volume while maintaining label supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The label feeder is positioned inside the inlet portion of the irregular component inserter, nesting the label supply mechanism within the existing structure. This allows the label feeder to occupy unused space within the inserter volume, effectively reducing the external dimensions of the overall system.
2Quantity of substance
If pre-printed labels are supplied in a rolled state, then labels can be provided for specific PCBs or electronic components, but the operation must be stopped when PCBs or electronic components are changed, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The label printer prints labels in advance before they are needed, allowing the label feeder to have pre-prepared labels ready for immediate use. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need to stop operation for label changes when PCBs or electronic components are changed.
Solution Approach 2:
The label printer continuously prints labels and the label feeder continuously supplies them to the irregular component inserter, maintaining continuous operation without interruptions. The system can switch labels instantaneously when PCBs or electronic components are changed, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
There is a provided a label feeder for a hybrid irregular component insertion robot, the label feeder includes: a label printer configured to print a label to be attached to a printed circuit board or an electronic component supplied from an electronic component supply unit to a hybrid irregular component insertion robot, and to enable the printed label to be published; and a label supply unit configured to take over the label being published from the label printer and supply the label to a label pickup position provided inside the hybrid irregular component insertion robot.