Multi-Input Component Tape Feeder for Automated Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing component feeders are limited to supplying only a single type of component tape, requiring manual splicing or feeder replacement when tape is depleted, which increases complexity and time in switching between different component types.

Innovation Solution

A component tape feeder apparatus with multiple input modules, a single exposure module, and a single output module, allowing simultaneous feeding and switching of multiple component tapes without manual intervention, enabling continuous operation with minimal interruptions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single component tape is supplied to the pick point, then the feeder can be simple in structure, but the feeder becomes dedicated to a particular component type and requires manual intervention when tape is depleted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefeeder structureVSAvoidcomponent type flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The feeder is divided into multiple independent input modules (first input module, second input module, etc.), each capable of receiving and advancing a separate component tape. These modular units can be independently configured and replaced, allowing the system to handle multiple component types simultaneously while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized module design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The feeder incorporates multiple input modules that can each accept different component tapes, enabling a single feeder device to supply multiple types of components to the pick point. This universal design eliminates the need for dedicated feeders for each component type while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If manual splicing or feeder replacement is required when component tape is depleted, then the feeder structure can be simple, but the operation time and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefeeder mechanismVSAvoidtape switching time

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The multiple input modules are configured to enable continuous operation of the component placement machine. When one component tape is depleted, another tape from a different input module can immediately supply components to the pick point, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous production flow without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple component tapes are loaded into the feeder in advance, each into separate input modules. This preliminary preparation ensures that when one tape is depleted, replacement is already available, eliminating the need for urgent manual splicing or feeder replacement during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple component tapes are supplied simultaneously, then component type versatility improves, but the feeder structure and control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent type flexibilityVSAvoidfeeder structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The feeder system is segmented into independent input modules, each with its own tape supply and advancement mechanism. This segmentation allows multiple component tapes to be handled simultaneously through standardized, modular units rather than requiring a complex integrated system, making the multi-tape capability manageable and maintainable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Device complexity

If manual splicing is required to extend component tape supply, then the feeder can remain simple, but the difficulty and time for supplying additional tapes increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefeeder mechanismVSAvoidtape loading operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple component tapes are pre-loaded into separate input modules before operation begins. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual splicing during production, as operators simply need to load complete tapes into modules rather than performing complex splicing operations to extend tape supply.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7850040B2Component tape feeder

Publication Date: 2010.12.14 UI HOLDING CO

AI summary

Provided is a component tape feeder apparatus comprising a single output module, a single component exposure module, operably connected to the single output module, and, a plurality of input modules, wherein each input module of the plurality of input modules is operably connected to the single exposure module. A corresponding method of feeding electronic components includes supplying a plurality of component tapes housing electronic components to the single exposure module, wherein the supplying involves receiving and forwarding of the plurality of component tapes by the plurality of input modules.