Tape Feeder Short Carrier Tape Loading Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tape feeders require a minimum length of carrier tape to merge with the main conveying path at an inclined portion, limiting the use of shorter carrier tapes.
Innovation Solution
A tape feeder design with a second inserting portion closer to the removing portion and a second conveying path that merges into the first conveying path within a specific range, allowing for engagement with a sprocket and facilitating the use of shorter carrier tapes by reducing the distance and length of the second conveying path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the second conveying path merges into the main conveying path at an inclined portion, then the tape feeder can handle cut tapes, but the cut tape must have a certain minimum length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second conveying path that merges into the main conveying path at a position upstream of the inclined portion, effectively adding a new dimensional route for tape insertion. This allows cut tapes to be fed through an alternative path that bypasses the length restriction imposed by the inclined portion merging design, thereby reducing the minimum tape length requirement while maintaining the ability to handle cut tapes
2Reliability
If the second conveying path is longer, then the tape can be properly engaged with the sprocket, but the loading operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tape guide is positioned to guide the tape onto the sprocket before the tape enters the second conveying path. This preliminary engagement action ensures that the sprocket is already engaged with the tape when loading begins, eliminating the need for the tape to travel a longer distance to achieve engagement. Consequently, loading time is reduced while maintaining reliable sprocket engagement
3Productivity
If the second inserting portion is positioned farther from the removing portion, then the first conveying path can be used, but shorter carrier tapes cannot be efficiently utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tape insertion function into two separate inserting portions: the first inserting portion for full-length tapes using the first conveying path, and the second inserting portion for cut tapes using the second conveying path. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific tape type, enabling efficient utilization of shorter carrier tapes through the second path while maintaining compatibility with longer tapes through the first path
Data Source
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AI summary
An object of the invention is to provide a tape feeder which can not only facilitate a loading of a carrier tape but also enable a use of a shorter carrier tape. A tape feeder includes a tape guide configured to guide an engagement of a carrier tape with a sprocket above the sprocket, a second inserting portion disposed nearer to a removing portion which is opened for removal of an electronic component therefrom than a first inserting portion, and a second conveying path which is a conveying path configured to support a carrier tape inserted from the second inserting portion and merging into a first conveying path within a range defined in a conveying direction on the first conveying path where the tape guide is located.