Patent ID: 6210079
Filing Date: 2001-04-03
Classification: B23P,B65G,H05K

Abstract:
A feeder system for supplying electrical components to a pick-and-place machine, the feeder system comprising:first and second component means for storage, each having a storage outlet;a pick up location;a passage providing communication between said storage outlets and said pick up location;a first fluid jet outlet associated with the first of said storage outlets for providing fluid blasts to agitate components in the first component storage means, wherein said first fluid jet outlet is located to provide air blasts through the first storage outlet;a second fluid jet outlet associated with said passage for providing fluid blasts to propel said components located in said passage towards said pick up location;a third fluid jet outlet associated with the second of said storage outlets for providing fluid blasts to agitate components in the second component storage means, wherein said third fluid jet outlet is located to provide air blasts through the second storage outlet;a first solenoid valve and a third solenoid valve each arranged to provide air to respective said first and third fluid jet outlets; anda controller for selectively controlling said solenoid valves to alternately supply air blasts to said first and third fluid jet outlets.