Tape Feeder Synchronization via End Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In splicing-less tape feeders, the lack of synchronized feeding between preceding and following tapes leads to inefficiencies, causing intervals that reduce working efficiency and require manual intervention for replenishment, as existing methods fail to control tape feeding effectively.
Innovation Solution
A tape feeder system with first and second tape feeding mechanisms, along with detecting sensors, controls the interval between trailing and leading ends of tapes using a preset pattern, ensuring synchronized feeding and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the splicing-less method is used to supply carrier tapes, then the operation complexity is reduced and manual splicing work is eliminated, but the tapes are fed individually and separately causing intervals that reduce working efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by detecting the trailing end of the preceding tape and the leading end of the following tape, then using this information to control the timing and speed of tape feeding. The control unit adjusts the feeding mechanism based on real-time tape position feedback to maintain optimal intervals between consecutive tapes, thereby eliminating idle time and maintaining high productivity while keeping the operation simple.
2Productivity
If the following tape is not supplied at appropriate timing, then the tape feeding process becomes desynchronized, but controlling the timing adds complexity to the feeding mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service automation where the control unit automatically manages the complex timing and coordination of tape feeding based on simple detection signals. The detection sensors and control unit work autonomously to synchronize tape supply without requiring complex manual intervention or overly complicated mechanical mechanisms, thus maintaining productivity while managing device complexity through intelligent automation.
3Reliability
If manual splicing operations are performed every time supply reels are replaced, then tape continuity is maintained, but the work load and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing the following tape in advance and positioning it ready for automatic engagement before the preceding tape is completely consumed. The system detects when the preceding tape is nearing its end and automatically initiates the feeding of the following tape, eliminating the need for manual splicing operations and reducing replenishment time while ensuring continuous tape supply.
Data Source
AI summary
Trailing end portions and leading end portions of two carrier tapes are detected in a first detecting position P1 and a second detecting position P1 which are set along a tape traveling path 5c by a first tape detecting sensor S1 and a second tape detecting sensor S2, and a tape feeding control device 26 controls a first tape feeding mechanism 20A and a second tape feeding mechanism 20B so as to control an interval between the trailing end portion and the leading end portion based on an interval control pattern.