Tape Repair Method for Reusing Component Supply Tapes
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Solution Overview
Problem
In tape feeders, components are wasted when the reel is replaced due to the need to cut open the cover tape far upstream from the component take-out position, leading to components being left exposed and potentially lost during storage or reuse.
Innovation Solution
A tape processing method that involves repairing the component supplying tape by adhering a repair tape to close the opened portion of the cover tape and cutting the tape at a predetermined position downstream from the last component, allowing the tape to be reused without wasting components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cover tape is cut open at a position far upstream from the component take-out position, then the component storing portion is opened and components can be supplied, but components are wasted when the reel is replaced because the cut open section cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the discarding and recovering principle by introducing a repair tape that closes the cut-open cover tape after component supply. Instead of discarding the entire tape section after the cover tape is cut open, the system recovers it by: (1) supplying all components in the cut-open section, (2) closing the cover tape with a repair tape, and (3) reusing the closed tape section for future component supply. This transforms a disposable tape section into a recoverable and reusable resource.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by prepping the tape for reuse before actual reuse occurs. After components are supplied from the cut-open section, the repair tape is applied to close the cover tape in advance, creating a ready-to-use state for the next component supply operation. This preliminary closing action ensures the tape can be immediately reused without requiring re-opening or re-preparation.
2Ease of manufacture
If the cover tape is kept adhered to the carrier tape while conveying, then the configuration is simplified and manufacturing cost is reduced, but the cover tape must be cut open far upstream which causes component waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by recovering the tape section after it has been used with the simplified configuration. The repair tape closes the cover tape after component supply, enabling the same tape to be reused multiple times. This recovers the value of the tape section that would otherwise be wasted, allowing the simplified configuration to be maintained without permanent component loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by extending the operational life of the component supplying tape through repair and reuse. Instead of a single-use cycle where the tape is discarded after cutting, the repair tape enables continuous reuse of the same tape section across multiple component supply operations, maintaining continuous useful action from the tape.
3Ease of operation
If components are left exposed after cut open, then they can be accessed for supply, but they may drop off during storage or reuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through the cyclic opening and closing of the cover tape. The cover tape is opened periodically to allow component supply, then closed periodically with the repair tape to secure components for storage and transport. This periodic opening-closing cycle maintains both component accessibility during supply and component retention during storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by applying the repair tape to close the cover tape before storage or transport occurs. This preventive closing action cushions against the potential harm of component dropout by securing the components in place before they could potentially fall off during handling or storage operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the reuse of component supplying tapes by ensuring components are covered and preventing them from being lost during storage or reuse, reducing waste and maintaining the integrity of the tape feeder's operation.
Implementation Method 1
adhering a repair tape to close the opened portion of the cover tape
Data Source
AI summary
A tape processing method of reusing an opened component supplying tape used in a tape feeder which conveys the component supplying tape provided with a carrier tape including a plurality of component storing portions and a cover tape toward a component take out position, the tape feeder being configured to open a cover tape and convey the component supplying tape. The method includes steps of: repairing the component supplying tape by closing an opened portion of the cover tape and fixing by a repair tape to be returned to a state in which the component storing portion is covered by the cover tape; and cutting the component supplying tape at a predetermined cut position far away toward a downstream side in the conveying direction from a position of a head component located at the most downstream side in the conveying direction.