Patent ID: 6474527
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
A multiple-pitch tape feeder, comprising:a carrier tape reel support for supporting carrier tape having any one of several predetermined pitches and a cover tape retaining components therein; a slidable tape guide with a tape window therein for exposing a component at a pick location adjacent a cover tape peel edge for peeling said cover tape from the carrier tape; a path for guiding said carrier tape from a carrier tape reel to the slidable tape guide; a carrier tape drive mechanism for engaging feed-holes regularly spaced along the length of carrier tape and advancing said carrier tape through said tape guide; a pitch selection cam repositionable by an operator, said selection cam having a plurality of positions, each corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined pitch sizes, wherein movement of said selection cam is directly translated into movement of said slidable tape guide; a sensor detecting a position of the slidable tape guide; and a control unit, responsive to said sensors for providing a signal to said carrier tape drive mechanism, said carrier tape drive mechanism advancing the carrier tape a predetermined distance according to the pitch size.