Reel Holding Device for Component Mounter
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Solution Overview
Problem
In component mounting systems, operators face a significant burden when switching between reels of carrier tape, as they need to manually move and manage auxiliary reels, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A component mounter with a reel holding device that includes a first reel supporting part for the currently used reel and a second reel supporting part for the next reel, along with a reel guide part that assists in moving the next reel into position using forces applied by the tape feeder or operator, reducing the manual effort required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual reel switching is used, then the system structure remains simple, but the operator burden increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically moving the next reel from the second reel supporting part to the first reel supporting part before the current reel is completely used up. The tape feeder pulls the carrier tape, which in turn pulls the next reel into position in advance, so that when switching is needed, the reel is already in place, eliminating manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes the reel switching process self-service by using the tape feeder's own operation to automatically transport the next reel into position. The carrier tape acts as a connector that transfers force from the tape feeder to the reel, enabling the system to service itself without external manual help.
2Productivity
If automatic reel movement is implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier tape serves multiple functions: it not only transports components but also acts as a force transmission medium to pull the reel into position. The tape feeder simultaneously performs its component feeding function and drives the reel movement, eliminating the need for separate motorized reel positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier tape acts as an intermediary element that connects the tape feeder to the reel. Instead of directly coupling the tape feeder to the reel through complex mechanical linkages, the tape serves as a flexible mediator that transmits force and enables automatic reel movement through a simple and elegant mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A component mounter comprises a reel holder that holds a reel on which a carrier tape accommodating components is wound, a tape supplier that feeds the carrier tape withdrawn from the reel held by the reel holder to a predetermined component supplying position, and a mounting head that performs component mounting of removing the component from the carrier tape and mounting the component on a board. The reel holder includes a first reel support that supports the reel when component mounting is performed, a second reel support that supports a reel on which the carrier tape to be withdrawn by the tape supplier when a next component mounting is performed, and a reel guide that guides the reel moving from the second to first reel support by receiving a force acting toward the first reel support when the force acts on the reel supported on the second reel support.