Slidable Replenishment Section for Component Supply Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional component supply devices do not provide sufficient space for operators to access mounters when issues arise, as they are typically positioned adjacent to the mounters and obstruct the access path.

Innovation Solution

A component supply device with a replenishment section that is slidably attached to a conveyance section, allowing the replenishment section to be moved perpendicular to the conveyance section, thereby creating space for operator access while maintaining efficient component conveyance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the component supply device is positioned adjacent to the mounter to maintain a compact installation space, then the installation space is reduced, but the operator cannot access the mounter when problems arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation spaceVSAvoidoperator access to mounter
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The replenishment section is designed to be slidable relative to the conveyance section, allowing it to move between a first position (adjacent to the mounter for compact installation) and a second position (retracted to allow operator access). This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to adapt its spatial arrangement based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The replenishment section moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the component conveyance direction, utilizing a different spatial dimension for access rather than interfering with the primary conveyance path. This allows operator access without disrupting component flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the replenishment section is positioned to allow operator access to the mounter, then operator access is improved, but the installation space increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator access to mounterVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The slidable connection between the replenishment section and conveyance section enables dynamic repositioning. When operator access is needed, the replenishment section can be slid to a retracted position, and when compact installation is prioritized, it can be positioned adjacent to the mounter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stability of the object's composition

If the replenishment section is fixed in position to maintain stable component conveyance, then conveyance stability is improved, but operator access to the mounter is blocked

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconveyance stabilityVSAvoidoperator access to mounter
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamically reconfigurable one. The slidable connection allows the replenishment section to be positioned optimally for conveyance stability during operation, while enabling access when needed, resolving the contradiction between stability and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2914077B1Component supply apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.04.07 FUJI CORP
  • EP2914077B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2914077B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2914077B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A component supply device is arranged adjacent to a mounter which mounts components on a board and supplies components to the mounter. This component supply device includes a replenishment section provided with a magazine which houses a component carrying member on which multiple components are arranged on a base material, and a conveyance section which conveys a component carrying member housed in the magazine and which is equipped with side surface number one to which the replenishment section is attached and side surface number two which is arranged adjacent to the mounter. The replenishment section is slidably attached with respect to side surface number one of the conveyance section.