Washing device and barrel polishing system

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a washing device that washes a barrel tank of a horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device. The washing device includes a casing, a rotation mechanism, a washing nozzle, and a nozzle moving mechanism. The casing includes a frame to accommodate the barrel tank, and a rotary shaft extending from the frame. The rotation mechanism is a mechanism to rotate the frame around the rotary shaft. The washing nozzle is a nozzle to eject washing water. The washing nozzle is configured to be insertable into and removable from the barrel tank. The nozzle moving mechanism moves the washing nozzle in a direction where the washing nozzle is inserted into and removed from the barrel tank.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a washing device and a barrel polishing system.

BACKGROUND ART

A centrifugal barrel polishing device is widely used which causes a barrel tank, which is charged with a mass, to make a planetary motion to thereby polish a workpiece. A horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device and a vertical centrifugal barrel polishing device are known as the centrifugal barrel polishing device. The horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device includes a revolution shaft and a rotation shaft that extend in a horizontal direction, and causes a barrel tank to revolve around the revolution shaft while causing the barrel tank to rotate around the rotation shaft, to thereby polish a workpiece in the barrel tank. The vertical centrifugal barrel polishing device includes a revolution shaft and a rotation shaft that extend in a vertical direction, and causes a barrel tank to revolve around the revolution shaft while causing the barrel tank to rotate around the rotation shaft, to thereby polish a workpiece in the barrel tank.

In the processing of a workpiece using the centrifugal barrel polishing device, a series of processes including barrel polishing and a washing process are performed. Generally, in the series of processes, operations such as charging a mass into a barrel tank, attaching and detaching a barrel tank to and from the centrifugal barrel polishing device, and washing a barrel tank are manually performed by an operator. A device disclosed in Patent Literature 1 is known as a technique of automating these operations. Patent Literature 1 discloses a barrel polishing system including a vertical centrifugal barrel polishing device, a dryer that dries a workpiece, a washing device that washes the workpiece, a sorting-vibration sorter that sorts the workpiece and a medium, a fixed amount-of-medium supply device that supplies the medium into the barrel tank, a barrel lid attachment and detachment device that attaches and detaches a lid of the barrel tank, and a robot that transfers the barrel tank between the devices.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

In the device disclosed in Patent Literature 1, the barrel tank is transferred between the devices using the robot; and thereby, operations such as charging the medium and washing the workpiece are automated and the efficiency of a series of processes is improved. However, the horizontal centrifugal barrel machine has structural limitations on a method for detaching or washing the barrel tank, and it is difficult to apply the technique of Patent Literature 1 to the horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device. On the other hand, since the horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device has a higher abrasive force than the vertical barrel polishing device, it is desirable to perform barrel polishing using the horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device.

Therefore, there is a need to provide a washing device and a barrel polishing system that can improve the efficiency of a series of processes including barrel polishing and a washing process using a horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device.

Solution to Problem

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a washing device that washes a barrel tank of a horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device. The washing device includes a casing, a rotation mechanism, a washing nozzle, and a nozzle moving mechanism. The casing includes a frame to accommodate the barrel tank, and a rotary shaft extending from the frame. The rotation mechanism is a mechanism to rotate the frame around the rotary shaft. The washing nozzle is a nozzle to eject washing water. The washing nozzle is configured to be insertable into and removable from the barrel tank. The nozzle moving mechanism moves the washing nozzle in a direction where the washing nozzle is inserted into and removed from the barrel tank.

In the washing device according to the aspect, the washing water is ejected from the washing nozzle that is insertable into and removable from the barrel tank, so that a washing liquid is supplied into the barrel tank. When the frame is rotated around the rotary shaft by the rotation mechanism, the washing liquid supplied into the barrel tank flows in the barrel tank. Accordingly, the washing of a mass in the barrel tank is promoted. According to the washing device, it is possible to automate the washing of the barrel tank which is performed in a subsequent step of barrel polishing; and thereby, it is possible to improve the efficiency of a series of processes including barrel polishing and a washing process.

The washing device of one embodiment may further include a first screen having an opening through which a polishing medium is passable and a workpiece is not passable; and a screen moving mechanism to move the first screen between a position where the first screen covers an opening portion of the barrel tank and a position where the first screen is separated from the opening portion.

Since the first screen has the opening through which the polishing medium is passable and the workpiece is not passable, it is possible to sort the polishing medium and the workpiece by discharging the contents of the barrel tank in a state where the first screen is disposed at the position where the first screen covers the opening portion of the barrel tank.

The washing device of one embodiment may further include a second screen having an opening through which the workpiece and the polishing medium are not passable. The nozzle moving mechanism may move the second screen between a position where the second screen covers the opening portion of the barrel tank and a position where the second screen is separated from the opening portion.

Since the second screen has the opening through which the workpiece and the polishing medium are not passable, while allowing the workpiece and the polishing medium to remain in the barrel tank, it is possible to discharge the washing liquid and the like from the barrel tank by tilting the barrel tank in a state where the second screen is disposed at the position where the second screen covers the opening portion of the barrel tank.

In one embodiment, the washing nozzle may be configured to supply water and a compound into the barrel tank. In the embodiment, since the water and the compound are supplied into the barrel tank after the barrel tank is washed, the barrel tank after washing can be used in barrel polishing again.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a barrel polishing system including: a horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device; a barrel tank attachment and detachment device to attach and detach a barrel tank to and from the centrifugal barrel polishing device; the above-described washing device; an charging device to charge a mass into the barrel tank; and a transport device that transports the barrel tank between the devices (the centrifugal barrel polishing device, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device, the washing device, and the charging device).

The barrel polishing system according to the aspect includes the centrifugal barrel polishing device, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device, the washing device, and the charging device. Then, the transport of the barrel tank between these devices is performed by the transport device. For this reason, it is possible to automate operations such as charging the mass into the barrel tank, attaching and detaching the barrel tank to and from the centrifugal barrel polishing device, and washing the barrel tank. Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of a series of processes including barrel polishing and the washing process.

In one embodiment, the transport device may include a chain conveyor. Since the chain conveyor can be freely designed according to an environment where the barrel polishing system is installed, it is possible to realize the barrel polishing system with good workability.

In one embodiment, the charging device may include a polishing medium supply device to charge a polishing medium into the barrel tank, an abrasive grain supply device to charge abrasive grains into the barrel tank, and a workpiece supply device to charge a workpiece into the barrel tank. In the embodiment, it is possible to supply the polishing medium, the abrasive grains, and the workpiece to the barrel tank at a ratio corresponding to polishing conditions.

In one embodiment, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device may include a hanging tool to hold the barrel tank, an elevating mechanism to move the hanging tool upward and downward, and a moving mechanism to move the hanging tool. The barrel tank attachment and detachment device may further include a clamp mechanism to lock the barrel tank to the centrifugal barrel polishing device or release locking of the barrel tank to the centrifugal barrel polishing device. The barrel tank attachment and detachment device can attach and detach the barrel tank to and from the centrifugal barrel polishing device.

The barrel polishing system of one embodiment may further include a lid attachment and detachment device that attaches and detaches a barrel tank lid to and from a barrel tank body of the barrel tank. The lid attachment and detachment device includes a hanging tool to hold the barrel tank lid, an elevating mechanism to move the hanging tool upward and downward, a moving mechanism to move the hanging tool, and a clamp mechanism to fix the barrel tank lid to the barrel tank body or release fixing of the barrel tank body and the barrel tank lid. The lid attachment and detachment device can attach and detach the barrel tank lid to and from the barrel tank body.

The barrel polishing system of one embodiment may further include a lid washing device that washes the barrel tank lid. The lid washing device includes a washing nozzle to eject a washing liquid to the barrel tank lid to wash the barrel tank lid, and an air blowing nozzle eject compressed air to the barrel tank lid which is washed. The lid washing device can wash the barrel tank lid.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the aspects and various embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to improve the efficiency of a series of processes including barrel polishing using the horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Incidentally, in the following description, the same reference signs are assigned to the same or equivalent components and duplicated descriptions will not be repeated. The dimensional ratios in the drawings are not necessarily coincide with those in the description. The terms “up”, “down”, “right”, “left”, “front” and “back” in the specification are based on illustrated states and are for convenience.

A barrel polishing system1according to one embodiment includes a barrel polishing device10, a washing device20, a barrel tank attachment and detachment device30, a lid attachment and detachment device40, a medium supply device (polishing medium supply device)60, an abrasive grain supply device70, a workpiece supply device80, a lid washing device90, and a transport device100(refer toFIG.5). In the embodiment ofFIG.5, the barrel polishing system1includes a first conveyor C1and a second conveyor C2as the transport device100.

FIG.1is a front view schematically illustrating the barrel polishing device10of one embodiment. The barrel polishing device10is a horizontal centrifugal barrel polishing device. Incidentally, the horizontal centrifugal barrel device includes a revolution shaft and a rotation shaft that extends in a horizontal direction, and causes a barrel tank to revolve around the revolution shaft while causing the barrel tank to rotate around the rotation shaft, to thereby polish a workpiece in the barrel tank.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the barrel polishing device10includes a plurality of barrel tanks11, a plurality of barrel tank cases12, a pair of turrets13(revolution disk), a revolution shaft14, a drive mechanism15, and a driven mechanism16. The barrel tank11is charged with a mass including a polishing medium and a workpiece. In one embodiment, the barrel polishing device10includes four barrel tanks11.FIG.1illustrates three barrel tanks11of the four barrel tanks11.

As illustrated inFIGS.2(A) and2(B), the barrel tank11has a cylindrical shape, and the inside of the barrel tank11defines a processing space. The cross-section of the processing space has a polygonal shape (octagonal shape in the embodiment illustrated inFIG.2). The barrel tank11includes a barrel tank body11a, barrel tank lid11b, and a lid fixing mechanism11c. The barrel tank body11ais a container that defines the processing space. An opening portion for charging a mass is formed in an upper portion of the barrel tank body11a. A flange portion11fis provided in the vicinity of the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. The flange portion11fhas a plate shape and projects laterally from the barrel tank body11a.

In one embodiment, a liner may be provided on an inner surface of the barrel tank body11aand a lower surface of the barrel tank lid11b. The liner is made of abrasion-resistant rubber (for example, urethane rubber) and has a function of preventing abrasion of an inner wall surface of the barrel tank body11a.

The barrel tank lid11bis provided to cover the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a, and seals the opening portion to seal the processing space. The lid fixing mechanism11chas a function of fixing the barrel tank lid11bto the barrel tank body11a. The lid fixing mechanism11cincludes a lock member11dand a pressing member11e.

The lock member11dis a member that locks the barrel tank lid11bto the barrel tank body11a. The lock member11dhas a bar shape of which the tip is bent to be able to lock the flange portion11fof the barrel tank body11a. A base end of the lock member11dis attached to the pressing member11eto be rotatable with respect to the pressing member11e. The lid fixing mechanism11cmay include a plurality of the lock members11dso as to improve adhesion between the barrel tank body11aand the barrel tank lid11b. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.2, the lid fixing mechanism11cincludes two lock members11d.

The pressing member11eis a member that presses the barrel tank lid11bagainst the barrel tank body11ausing the lock member11d. The pressing member11eis attached to the barrel tank lid11bto be movable with respect to the barrel tank lid11bin an upward and downward direction. For example, the pressing member11ehas the shape of a plate where a screw hole is formed, and a bolt BT extending in the upward and downward direction is inserted into the screw hole. For example, as illustrated inFIG.2(A), when the bolt is rotated to raise the pressing member11e, the lock member11drotates around a rotary shaft attached to the pressing member11e, so that the tip of the lock member11dmoves closer to a flange portion11fside of the barrel tank body11a. As illustrated inFIG.2(B), when the pressing member11eis further raised up, the tip of the lock member11dis locked to the flange portion11f, and as a result, the barrel tank lid11bis pressed against the barrel tank body11a. Accordingly, the barrel tank lid11bis fixed to the barrel tank body11a.

Next, the barrel tank case12will be described with reference toFIGS.3(A) and3(B). The barrel tank case12is a member to which the barrel tank11is detachably fixed. The barrel tank case12includes a frame12a, a rotation shaft12b, and a locking mechanism12c.

The frame12ais a member to accommodate the barrel tank11, and has a box shape including an open upper surface. The rotation shaft12bextending in the horizontal direction (rightward and leftward direction) is attached to right and left side surfaces of the frame12a. The rotation shaft12bis supported on the turret13to be described later.

The locking mechanism12cis provided in an upper portion of the right and left side surfaces of the frame12a. The locking mechanism12capplies a pressing force to the barrel tank11accommodated in the frame12a, to thereby fix the barrel tank11inside the frame12a. The locking mechanism12cincludes a lock member12dand a pressing member12e. In one embodiment, the barrel tank case12may include a plurality of the locking mechanisms12c. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.3, each of the barrel tank cases12includes two lock members12d.

The pressing member12eincludes an arm that is rotatable around an axis extending along a frontward and backward direction (direction of the sheet plane ofFIG.3(A)). The lock member12dis attached to a tip of the arm. For example, when a bolt is screwed to rotate an arm of the lock member12daround the axis, as illustrated inFIG.3(B), the lock member12dis configured to come into contact with a lock portion11gprovided in a side wall of the barrel tank body11a. As described above, the lock member12dcomes into contact with the lock portion11g, so that the barrel tank11is fixed inside the frame12a.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the pair of turrets13are provided on right and left sides of the plurality of barrel tank cases12. The pair of turrets13have a disk shape and are provided to face each other. A through-hole is formed at the center of the plane of each of the turrets13, and a first bearing13ais provided in the through-hole. The revolution shaft14is inserted through the through-holes of the pair of turrets13to be fixed to a shaft holder14a. The revolution shaft14is rotatably supported on the first bearing13a. Namely, the revolution shaft14is supported on the pair of turrets13to extend in the horizontal direction.

In addition, a plurality of second bearings13bare provided in each of the turrets13at equal intervals along a circumferential direction of the turret13. Each of the rotation shafts12bof the plurality of barrel tank cases12is inserted through the second bearings13b, and the rotation shaft12bis rotatably supported on the second bearings13b. The rotation shafts12bare supported on the pair of turrets13to extend in the horizontal direction. As described above, the pair of turrets13are disposed to interpose the barrel tank case12therebetween via the rotation shaft12band the second bearings13b, and are fixed to the revolution shaft14inserted through the centers of the pair of turrets13. With this configuration, four barrel tank cases12are disposed at equal intervals between the pair of turrets13, and the four barrel tank cases12make a planetary motion around the rotation shafts12band the revolution shaft14.

The drive mechanism15is connected to the pair of turrets13. The drive mechanism15includes a drive motor15a, a motor pulley15b, a revolution pulley15c, and a drive belt15d. The drive motor15agenerates a driving force to rotate the pair of turrets13. The motor pulley15bis fixed to an output shaft of the drive motor15a. The revolution pulley15cis provided on an outer periphery of one turret13(turret13on the left side inFIG.1) of the pair of turrets13. The drive belt15dis suspended between the motor pulley15band the revolution pulley15c.

The driven mechanism16includes a drive pulley16a, a driven pulley16b, and a driven belt16c. The drive pulley16ais fixed to the revolution shaft14. The driven pulley16bis fixed to the rotation shaft12b. The driven belt16cis suspended between the drive pulley16aand the driven pulley16b.

In the barrel polishing device10, when the drive motor15aoperates, a driving force is transmitted to the turrets13via the motor pulley15b, the drive belt15d, and the revolution pulley15c, so that the turrets13rotate around the revolution shaft14. As the turrets13rotate, the barrel tanks11fixed to the barrel tank cases12turn (revolve) around the revolution shaft14as an axial center. In addition, each of the barrel tanks11is rotated around the rotation shaft12bas an axial center, in a direction reverse to the rotation direction of the turret13by the driven mechanism16.

As described above, the barrel tank11rotates around the rotation shaft12bextending horizontally and revolves around the revolution shaft14extending horizontally. Namely, the barrel tank makes a planetary motion around a rotary axis as an axial center extending horizontally.

Next, the washing device20of one embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.4(A) and4(B). The washing device20illustrated inFIG.4includes a casing21, a washing unit22, a sorting unit23, and a rotation mechanism24.

The casing21includes a frame21a, a rotary shaft, a roller21c, and a stopper21d. The frame21ais a container that accommodates the barrel tank body11a, and has a box shape including an open front surface and an open upper surface. The rotary shaft21bis connected to right and left side surfaces of the frame21a. The rotary shaft21bextends from the right and left side surfaces of the frame21ain the horizontal direction. Both end portions of the rotary shaft21bare supported on bearings provided in a support table21s.

A plurality of the rollers21care provided in a lower portion of the frame21a. As illustrated inFIG.4(B), the plurality of rollers21care arranged along the frontward and backward direction. The plurality of rollers21care connected to a motor (unillustrated) and are configured to be rotatable in a circumferential direction. The motor rotates in a forward direction, so that the barrel tank body11aplaced on the rollers21care transported in the frontward and backward direction. The stopper21dextends upward from a bottom surface of the frame21ato pass through between the plurality of rollers21c. The stopper21dis configured to be extendable and contractible. In a state where the stopper21dextends upward, the stopper21dis in contact with a lower part of the barrel tank body11ato restrict movement of the barrel tank body11ain the frontward and backward direction.

The washing unit22includes a frame22a, a screen (second screen)22b, a washing nozzle22c, a distribution pipe22d, and an elevating device22e(nozzle moving mechanism). Incidentally, the washing unit22may include a plurality of the washing nozzles22c. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.4(A), the washing unit22includes four washing nozzles22c.

The frame22ais provided above the frame21a. The frame22ahas a plate shape, and an opening having substantially the same shape as that of the opening portion of the barrel tank body11ais formed therein. The distribution pipe22dis fixed to the frame22a. The distribution pipe22dis connected to a washing liquid supply source (for example, a water tap or a pump) that supplies a washing liquid. The distribution pipe22ddistributes the washing liquid, which is supplied from the washing liquid supply source, to the washing nozzles22c.

The washing nozzle22cextends in the upward and downward direction above the frame21a. One end (upper end) of the washing nozzle22cis connected to the distribution pipe22d. A plurality of ejection ports (holes) that eject the washing liquid supplied from the distribution pipe22dare formed in a side surface of the washing nozzle22c.

The screen22b(discharge screen) is attached to the openings, which are formed in the frame22aand the distribution pipe22d, to cover the openings. An opening through which the polishing medium and the workpiece are not passable is formed in the screen22b. In one embodiment, a plurality of the openings are formed in the screen22b. As the screen22b, for example, a wire mesh including openings through which the polishing medium and the workpiece are not passable is used. Incidentally, the wire mesh may be a woven wire mesh, a punching metal, or the like, and the form thereof is not particularly limited.

The elevating device22eis connected to the frame22a. The elevating device22ecan move the frame22ain the upward and downward direction. When the barrel tank body11ais disposed inside the frame21a, the elevating device22emoves the frame22ain the upward and downward direction, so that the washing nozzles22ccan be inserted into and removed from the barrel tank11through the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. In addition, the elevating device22emoves the frame22ain the upward and downward direction, so that the screen22bcan be moved between a position where the screen22bcovers the opening portion of the barrel tank body11aand a position where the screen22bis separated from the opening portion. In other words, the elevating device22ecan attach and detach the screen22bto and from the barrel tank body11a.

The sorting unit23includes a frame23a, a screen (first screen)23b, and an elevating device (screen moving mechanism)23e. The frame23ais provided between the washing nozzles22cand the frame21a. The frame23ahas a plate shape, and an opening having substantially the same shape as that of the opening portion of the barrel tank body11ais formed in the frame23a.

The screen23b(sorting screen) is attached to the frame23ato cover the opening of the frame23a. Namely, the screen23bhas substantially the same planar shape as that of the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. An opening through which the polishing medium is passable and the workpiece is not passable is formed in the screen23b. In one embodiment, a plurality of the openings are formed in the screen23b. As the screen23b, for example, a wire mesh including openings through which the polishing medium is passable and the workpiece is not passable is used.

The elevating device23eis connected to the frame23a. The elevating device23ecan move the frame23ain the upward and downward direction. Therefore, the elevating device23ecan move the screen23bbetween a position where the screen23bcovers the opening portion of the barrel tank body11aand a position where the screen23bis separated from the opening portion. In other words, the elevating device23ecan attach and detach the screen23bto and from the barrel tank body11a.

The rotation mechanism24is connected to the rotary shaft21b. The rotation mechanism24includes a rotating motor24arotatable in forward and reverse directions, a pulley24bfixed to one end of the rotary shaft21b, a pulley24cfixed to an output shaft of the rotating motor24a, and a belt24dsuspended between the pulley24band the pulley24c. When the rotating motor24aoperates, a driving force is transmitted to the rotary shaft21bvia the pulley24b, the pulley24c, and the belt24d, so that the frame21arotates around the rotary shaft21b.

Next, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30will be described with reference toFIG.6. The barrel tank attachment and detachment device30is a device to attach and detach the barrel tank11to and from the barrel tank case12of the barrel polishing device10. As illustrated inFIG.6, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30includes a hanging tool31, an elevating mechanism32, a moving mechanism33, and a rail34.

The hanging tool31includes an arm31a, a clamp mechanism31b, and a frame31c. The frame31cextends in the horizontal direction. The arm31ais hung from the frame31c. An upper end of the arm31ais connected to the frame31c. A lower end of the arm31ais configured to be able to engage with the flange portion11fof the barrel tank11. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.6, two sets of the arms31aare provided, and each set of the arms31aare provided to face each other with the barrel tank11interposed therebetween. The barrel tank11is held by the arms31a.

The clamp mechanism31bis attached to a lower side of the frame31c. In the embodiment ofFIG.6, two clamp mechanisms31bare provided in the frame31c. The two clamp mechanisms31bare disposed at positions corresponding to the positions of two locking mechanisms12cof the barrel tank case12. For example, the clamp mechanism31bis configured to rotate the bolt of the locking mechanism12cto thereby be able to change the posture of the arm of the pressing member12e. Accordingly, switching can be performed between a state where the pressing member12eis in contact with the lock portion11gof the barrel tank11and a state where the pressing member12eis separated from the lock portion11gof the barrel tank11. Namely, the clamp mechanism31bcan lock the barrel tank11to the barrel tank case12of the barrel polishing device10or release the locking of the barrel tank11to the barrel tank case12.

A lower end of the elevating mechanism32is connected to the frame31cof the hanging tool31. The elevating mechanism32includes, for example, a motor and is configured to be able to move the hanging tool31in the upward and downward direction using the driving force of the motor. An upper end of the elevating mechanism32is connected to the moving mechanism33. The moving mechanism33is provided on the rail34. The rail34is provided above the barrel polishing device10, the first conveyor C1, and the second conveyor C2. The moving mechanism33can move the hanging tool31and the elevating mechanism32along the rail34.

As described above, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30can hang the barrel tank11, for example, which is placed on the second conveyor C2, using the arm31ato transfer the barrel tank11to the barrel tank case12positioned below the rail34. On the contrary, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30can hang the barrel tank11, for example, which is mounted in the barrel tank case12positioned below the rail34, to transfer the barrel tank11onto the first conveyor C1.

Incidentally, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30illustrated inFIG.6moves the barrel tank11, which is hung by the hanging tool31, along the rail34; however, as long as the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30can attach and detach the barrel tank11to and from the barrel polishing device10, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30may include a robot arm capable of holding the barrel tank11, and attach and detach the barrel tank11to and from the barrel polishing device10using the robot arm.

Next, the lid attachment and detachment device40will be described with reference toFIG.7. The lid attachment and detachment device40is a device to attach and detach the barrel tank lid11bto and from the barrel tank body11a. The lid attachment and detachment device40includes a hanging tool41, an elevating mechanism42, a moving mechanism43, and a rail44. The hanging tool41includes an arm41a, a clamp mechanism41b, and a frame41c. The frame41cextends in the horizontal direction. The arm41ais hung from the frame41c. An upper end of the arm41ais connected to the frame41c. A lower end of the arm41ais configured to be able to hold the barrel tank lid11b.

The clamp mechanism41bis attached to a lower side of the frame41c. For example, the clamp mechanism31brotates the bolt BT of the barrel tank lid11bto thereby fix the barrel tank body11aand the barrel tank lid11bor release the fixing of the barrel tank body11aand the barrel tank lid11b.

A lower end of the elevating mechanism42is connected to the hanging tool41. The elevating mechanism42includes, for example, a motor and is configured to be able to move the hanging tool41in the upward and downward direction using the driving force of the motor. An upper end of the elevating mechanism32is connected to the moving mechanism43. The moving mechanism43is provided on the rail44. The rail44extends to pass above the first conveyor C1, the second conveyor C2, and the lid washing device90. The moving mechanism33can move the hanging tool41and the elevating mechanism42along the rail44.

Next, the medium supply device60will be described with reference toFIG.8. The medium supply device60is a device to charge a predetermined amount of polishing medium into the barrel tank body11a. As illustrated inFIG.8, the medium supply device60includes a weighing unit61, a moving unit62, a transfer unit63, and an charging unit64.

The weighing unit61includes a hopper61ato store the polishing medium, a transfer mechanism61bto transfer the polishing medium from the hopper61ato a medium container65, and a weighing mechanism61cto measure the mass of the polishing medium in the medium container65. As will be described later, since a non-reusable polishing medium is removed from the polishing medium that is charged into the medium container65from a sorting device50, the amount of polishing medium required for barrel polishing cannot be charged from the sorting device50. In this case, the transfer mechanism61bis operated to replenish a new polishing medium while measuring the mass of the polishing medium in the medium container65using the weighing mechanism61c. When a specified mass is reached, the operation of the transfer mechanism61bis stopped and the charging of the polishing medium is stopped.

The moving unit62is configured to be able to move the medium container65in the rightward and leftward direction. When the specified amount of polishing medium is charged into the medium container65, the moving unit62sets the medium container65in a bucket63ato be described later. In one embodiment, the moving unit62may include a fixing mechanism that fixes the medium container65to the bucket63a.

The transfer unit63includes the bucket63a, a hanger63b, a pulling mechanism63c, a connecting member63d, and a tilting frame63e. The hanger63bis attached to the bucket63a. The connecting member63dconnects the hanger63band the pulling mechanism63c. The tilting frame63eis held to be movable upward and downward along a base and is pivotally supported to be rotatable upward and downward. When the pulling mechanism63cis operated to pull the bucket63a, as illustrated by a two-dot chain line inFIG.8, the bucket63ais tilted downward around a support member63fas a fulcrum which is attached to the tilting frame63e. Accordingly, the polishing medium accommodated in the medium container65is charged into charging hopper64a.

The charging unit64includes the charging hopper64aand a gate64bprovided in a lower portion of the charging hopper. The gate64bserves as a valve that closes or opens an outlet of the charging hopper64a. When the bucket63ais titled, the polishing medium in the medium container65are charged into the charging hopper64a. At this time, an opening portion of the lower portion of the charging hopper64ais closed by the gate64b. When the barrel tank body11ais moved to a predetermined position, the gate64bis opened, and the polishing medium in the charging hopper64ais charged into the barrel tank body11a.

Next, the abrasive grain supply device70will be described with reference toFIG.9. As illustrated inFIG.9, the abrasive grain supply device70includes a storage unit71and a transport unit72.

The storage unit71includes a hopper71athat temporarily stores abrasive grains, a stirring member71bin which stirring blades are attached to a side portion of a rotary shaft thereof, and a stirring motor71cthat is connected to the rotary shaft. When the stirring motor71coperates, the stirring blades of the stirring member71brotate around the rotary shaft to stir the abrasive grains in the hopper71a. Accordingly, undesired flows such as funnel flows, bridges, and rat holes are prevented from being formed in the hopper71a.

The transport unit72includes a trough72awhich has a cylindrical shape and of which both end surfaces are closed, a transport screw72fprovided in the trough72a, and a transport motor72iconnected to the transport screw72f.

An abrasive grain supply port72bis formed on a rear end side (right side inFIG.9) of the trough72a. The internal space of the trough72acommunicates with the internal space of the hopper71avia the abrasive grain supply port72b. An abrasive grain discharge port72eis formed on a front end side (left side inFIG.9) of the trough72a. The transport screw72fis provided on a rear end side in the trough72a.

The transport screw72fincludes a transport shaft72gand a transport blade72h. The transport blade72his helically fixed to an outer peripheral surface of the transport shaft72g. One end of the transport shaft72gpenetrates through a rear end of the trough72ato extend outside the trough72aand is connected to the transport motor72i. The transport motor72iapplies a driving force to the transport shaft72gto thereby be able to rotate the transport shaft72gat a random speed. When the transport screw72frotates around the transport shaft72g, the abrasive grains that are charged into the trough72afrom the abrasive grain supply port72bare advanced toward the front end side of the trough72aat a constant speed. Namely, the transport screw72fcan advance a target amount of abrasive grains at a constant speed.

A regulating plate72jis disposed between a front end of the transport screw72fand the abrasive grain discharge port72e. A crushing portion through which the abrasive grains are passable is formed in the regulating plate72j. The abrasive grains that have passed through the crushing portion are compressed, and air between the abrasive grains are removed. As a result, the bulk specific gravity of the abrasive grains is increased. In addition, the regulating plate72jcrushes the abrasive grains of which the density reaches a predetermined density in front of the regulating plate72jand which turn into a large lump. The abrasive grains that have passed through the crushing portion of the regulating plate72jare advanced toward the front end side of the trough72a, and then are discharged outside the trough72afrom the abrasive grain discharge port72e. In the hopper71a, the bulk specific gravity of the abrasive grains varies changed due to the infiltration of gas between the abrasive grains. In addition, the feeding speed of the abrasive grains of the transport screw72fmay become non-uniform. On the other hand, since the abrasive grain supply device70includes the regulating plate72jdescribed above, it is possible to prevent a variation in the bulk specific gravity of the abrasive grains and the non-uniformity of the feeding speed of the abrasive grains. As a result, it is possible to feed the abrasive grains to the abrasive grain discharge port72eby a constant amount.

The abrasive grain supply device70operates the stirring motor71cand the transport motor72ito thereby charge the abrasive grains into the barrel tank body11adisposed below the abrasive grain discharge port72e.

Next, the lid washing device90will be described with reference toFIG.10. As illustrated inFIG.10, the lid washing device90includes a washing nozzle91a, an air blowing nozzle91b, and a transport unit91c. The transport unit91cis formed of, for example, a plurality of transport rollers.

The washing nozzle91aand the air blowing nozzle91bare provided at positions not to overlap the plurality of transport rollers in a plan view. The washing nozzle91ais provided upstream of the air blowing nozzle91bin a transport direction of the barrel tank lid11b. The washing nozzle91ais connected to a washing liquid supply device which supplies a washing liquid, and ejects the washing liquid from a tip thereof. The air blowing nozzle91bis connected to a compressed air supply device which supplies compressed air, and ejects the compressed air from a tip thereof. The washing nozzle91aand the air blowing nozzle91bextend in the upward and downward direction such that the washing liquid and the compressed air are ejected upward.

The lid washing device90ejects washing water to the barrel tank lid11bfrom the washing nozzle91ato thereby wash the barrel tank lid11b, and ejects the compressed air to the barrel tank lid11bafter washing from the air blowing nozzle91bto thereby dry the barrel tank lid11b.

Next, with reference toFIGS.5and11, while the entire configuration of the barrel polishing system will be described, the flow of a series of processes including barrel polishing and washing processes will be described.FIG.5is a plan view schematically illustrating the barrel polishing system1of one embodiment, and FIG.11is a flowchart illustrating a method MT for processing a workpiece according to one embodiment. Hereinafter, a wet barrel polishing system that automatically performs rough polishing and finish polishing on a workpiece will be described.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the barrel polishing system1includes the first conveyor C1and the second conveyor C2as the transport device100. The first conveyor C1and the second conveyor C2are chain conveyors that transport the barrel tank11. Since the chain conveyor can be freely designed according to installation environments (temperature, installation space, and the like), it is possible to realize the barrel polishing system1with good workability. Incidentally, if there is no problem with installation, a well-known device such as a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor can be used as the first conveyor C1and the second conveyor C2.

Incidentally, hereinafter, a description will be given on one barrel tank11; however, the same processes may be performed on the plurality of barrel tanks11mounted in the barrel polishing device10.

Here, a description will be given starting from a state where the barrel tank body11athat is empty is set in the washing device20(washing region E1). In the method MT, first, in step ST1, water and a compound are supplied from the washing device20to the barrel tank body11a. Specifically, as illustrated inFIG.4, the frame23ais lowered by the elevating device23e, and thus the screen23bis moved such that the opening portion of the barrel tank body11ais covered by the screen23b. Next, the frame22ais lowered by the elevating device22e, so that the washing nozzles22care inserted into the barrel tank body11a. Next, the water and the compound required for rough polishing are supplied from the washing nozzles22c. When the water and the compound are supplied, the screen23band the washing nozzles22care separated from the barrel tank body11aby the elevating device22eand the elevating device23e. Next, the fixing of the barrel tank body11aby the stopper21dis released.

Subsequently, in step ST2, the polishing medium is supplied to the barrel tank body11a. Specifically, in step ST2, the motor connected to the rollers21crotates in the reverse direction to place the barrel tank body11aon the first conveyor C1. Then, the first conveyor C1is operated to move the barrel tank body11ato a medium charging region E2(refer to arrow R1).

Next, the polishing medium is supplied from the medium supply device60to the barrel tank body11adisposed in the medium charging region E2. Specifically, as illustrated inFIG.8, the polishing medium in the hopper61ais charged into the medium container65, and the medium container65is set in the bucket63a. Next, the pulling mechanism63coperates to pull the bucket63a, so that the polishing medium accommodated in the medium container65is charged into the charging hopper64a. The polishing medium in the charging hopper64ais supplied to the barrel tank body11adisposed in the medium charging region E2.

Subsequently, in step ST3, the abrasive grains are supplied to the barrel tank body11a. Specifically, in step ST3, the barrel tank body11ais moved to an abrasive grain charging region E3by the second conveyor C2(refer to arrow R2).

Next, the polishing medium is supplied from the abrasive grain supply device70to the barrel tank body11adisposed in the abrasive grain charging region E3. Specifically, as illustrated inFIG.9, the abrasive grains in the hopper71aare supplied into the trough72a. The abrasive grains in the trough72aare advanced toward the front end side of the trough72aby the rotation of the transport screw72f. The abrasive grains that have reached the regulating plate72jpass through the crushing portion of the regulating plate72jto thereby be crushed. The crushed abrasive grains are charged into the barrel tank body11a, which is disposed in the abrasive grain charging region E3, from the abrasive grain discharge port72e.

Subsequently, in step ST4, the workpiece is supplied to the barrel tank body11a. Specifically, in step ST4, first, the barrel tank body11ais moved to a workpiece charging region E4by the second conveyor C2(refer to arrow R3). Incidentally, when the abrasive grains are not used in rough polishing, the barrel tank body11amay be directly moved from the medium charging region E2to the workpiece charging region E4.

Next, the workpiece is supplied from the workpiece supply device80to the barrel tank body11adisposed in the workpiece charging region E4. As the workpiece supply device80, a well-known device such as a parts feeder, a vibration feeder, or a belt conveyor can be used.

Subsequently, in step ST5, the barrel tank lid11bis mounted on the barrel tank body11a. In step ST5, first, the barrel tank body11ais moved to a lid mounting region E5by the second conveyor C2(refer to arrow R4).

As illustrated inFIG.7, in step ST5, in a state where the barrel tank lid11bis held by the arm41a, the hanging tool41is moved to above the lid mounting region E5by the moving mechanism43. Next, the hanging tool41is lowered to place the barrel tank lid11bon the barrel tank body11aand the locking of the arm41aand the barrel tank lid11bis released. Next, the barrel tank lid11bis pressed against the barrel tank body11ausing the clamp mechanism41b. Accordingly, the barrel tank lid11bis mounted on the barrel tank body11a. When the barrel tank lid11bis mounted on the barrel tank body11a, the hanging tool41is retracted upward.

Subsequently, in step ST6, the barrel tank11is set in the barrel polishing device10. In step ST6, first, the barrel tank11is moved to a first transfer region E6by the second conveyor C2(refer to arrow R5).

Next, as illustrated inFIG.6, the barrel tank body11adisposed in the first transfer region E6is mounted in the barrel tank case12by the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30. Specifically, the hanging tool31is moved to above the first transfer region E6by the moving mechanism33. Next, the hanging tool31is lowered by the elevating mechanism32, and the flange portion11fof the barrel tank11is held by a plurality of the arms31a. Next, the hanging tool31is raised, so that the barrel tank11is hung.

The barrel tank11that is hung is moved to a barrel tank attachment and detachment region E7by the moving mechanism33(refer to arrow R6).

At this time, a door provided in a front surface of the barrel polishing device10is released, so that the barrel tank case12is exposed. Next, the barrel tank11is lowered by the elevating mechanism32such that the barrel tank11is disposed in the barrel tank case12, and the holding of the arm31ais released. Next, the posture of the pressing member12eis adjusted by the clamp mechanism31bsuch that the lock member12dand the barrel tank11come into contact with each other. Accordingly, the barrel tank11is fixed to the barrel tank case12. Thereafter, the elevating mechanism32is operated to retract the hanging tool31upward.

Subsequently, in step ST7, barrel polishing is performed. Step ST7is performed after all the barrel tanks11are set in the barrel polishing device10. In step ST7, the drive motor15ais operated after the door is closed. Accordingly, the barrel tank11makes a planetary motion, so that rough polishing is performed.

When the rough polishing is completed after a predetermined time has elapsed, the operation of the drive motor15ais stopped.

Subsequently, in step ST8, the barrel tank11is detached from the barrel polishing device10. In step ST8, first, the door of the barrel polishing device10is opened, so that the barrel tank11is exposed. Next, after the hanging tool31is moved to above the barrel tank attachment and detachment region E7by the moving mechanism33, the hanging tool31is lowered toward the barrel tank. Then, the pressing of the barrel tank11by the lock member12dis released by the clamp mechanism31b. Next, the flange portion11fof the barrel tank11is held by the arm31a. Next, the hanging tool31is raised by the elevating mechanism32, so that the barrel tank11is detached from the barrel tank case12.

Next, the barrel tank11is moved to above a second placement region E8by the moving mechanism33(refer to arrow R7). Next, after the barrel tank11is moved to the first conveyor C1by the elevating mechanism32, the holding of the barrel tank11by the arm31ais released.

Next, the first conveyor C1is operated to move the barrel tank11to a lid detachment region E9(refer to arrow R8).

Incidentally, in step ST6and step ST8, the barrel tank11may be attached to and detached from the barrel polishing device10using a robot arm. In this case, for example, transport rollers may be disposed between the first transfer region E6and the second placement region E8, and the barrel tank11disposed in the first transfer region E6may be pushed out to the second placement region E8by the robot arm using a cylinder.

Subsequently, in step ST9, the barrel tank lid11bis detached from the barrel tank11using the lid attachment and detachment device40. In step ST9, first, the hanging tool41is moved to above the lid detachment region E9by the moving mechanism43, and the hanging tool41is lowered toward the barrel tank. Next, the pressing of the barrel tank lid11bby the lock member11dis released by the clamp mechanism41b. Next, a side surface of the barrel tank lid11bis held by the arm41a. Thereafter, the hanging tool41is raised by the elevating mechanism42, so that the barrel tank lid11bis detached from the barrel tank body11a.

Subsequently, in step ST10, the water, the compound, and the abrasive grains are discharged from the barrel tank body11ausing the washing device20. In step ST10, the first conveyor C1is operated to move the barrel tank body11ato the washing region E1(refer to arrow R9). In the process where the barrel tank body11ais transported to the washing region E1, the barrel tank body11ais transferred from the first conveyor C1onto the plurality of rollers21cof the washing device. As illustrated inFIG.4, the barrel tank body11atransferred onto the plurality of rollers21cis accommodated in the frame21a, and the movement of the barrel tank body11ais restricted by the stopper21d.

Next, the frame23ais lowered by the elevating device23e, so that the screen23bis set to cover the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. In addition, the frame22ais lowered by the elevating device22e, so that the screen22bis set to cover the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a, together with the screen23b. Next, the frame21ais rotated around the rotary shaft21bby the driving force of the rotating motor24a, so that the water, the compound, and the abrasive grains are discharged from the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. At this time, since the opening portion of the barrel tank body11ais covered by the screen22band the screen23b, the polishing medium and the workpiece after rough processing do not pass through the screen22band the screen23bto remain in the barrel tank body11a.

Subsequently, in step ST11, the barrel tank body11ais washed using the washing device20. In step ST11, the frame21ais rotated around the rotary shaft21bagain by the driving force of the rotating motor24a, and thus the posture of the barrel tank body11ais adjusted such that the opening portion of the barrel tank body11afaces upward.

Next, washing water (water in one embodiment) from the washing liquid supply source is ejected from the washing nozzles22ctoward an inner wall of the barrel tank body11a.

Next, the rotating motor24ais operated to reciprocally rotate, so that the casing21oscillates around the rotary shaft21b. At this time, the stopper21d, the washing unit22, and the sorting unit23prevent the barrel tank body11afrom being detached from the frame21a.

After the casing21oscillates for a predetermined time, the operation of the rotating motor24ais controlled such that the opening portion of the barrel tank body11afaces downward. Since the ejection of the washing water is maintained, the inner wall of the barrel tank body11a, the polishing medium, and the workpiece are washed, and the washing water in the barrel tank body11ais discharged. When the washing of the inner wall of the barrel tank body11aand the polishing medium is completed, the ejection of the washing water is stopped.

Subsequently, in step ST12, the water and the compound are supplied from the washing device20to the barrel tank body11a. In step ST12, the posture of the barrel tank body11ais adjusted by the driving force of the rotating motor24asuch that the opening portion of the barrel tank body11afaces upward. Next, the water and the compound for finish polishing are supplied from the washing nozzles22c. When the water and the compound are supplied, the screen23band the washing nozzles22care separated from the barrel tank body11aby the elevating device22eand the elevating device23e. Next, the fixing of the barrel tank body11aby the stopper21dis released.

In the method MT, step ST13is performed in parallel with step ST10. In step ST13, the barrel tank lid11bis washed by the lid washing device90. In step ST13, the barrel tank lid11bdetached from the barrel tank body11ain the lid detachment region E9is moved to a lid washing region E10by the moving mechanism43of the lid attachment and detachment device40(refer to arrow R10).

The barrel tank lid11bmoved to the lid washing region E10is placed on the transport unit91cof the lid washing device90. The barrel tank lid11bis transported in the rightward and leftward direction by the transport rollers of the transport unit91c. In the transport process, the washing water and compressed air are ejected from the washing nozzle91aand the air blowing nozzle91bto the barrel tank lid11b. Accordingly, the barrel tank lid11bis washed and the washing water adhering to the barrel tank lid11bis removed. The barrel tank lid11bthat is washed is moved to the lid mounting region E5by a moving mechanism that is unillustrated. The moving mechanism may be configured to push out the barrel tank lid11busing a cylinder or the like. In addition, a configuration where a motor is connected to the transport rollers and the barrel tank lid11bis moved by the rotation of the rollers may be employed.

Subsequently, in step ST14, the barrel tank body11ais mounted on the barrel tank body11aby the lid attachment and detachment device40. In step ST14, the barrel tank body11ais moved to the lid mounting region E5by the first conveyor C1and the second conveyor C2. Next, the barrel tank lid11bthat is washed is hung by the elevating mechanism42of the lid attachment and detachment device40.

The barrel tank lid11bthat is hung is moved to above the lid mounting region E5by the moving mechanism43(refer to arrow R11). Next, the barrel tank lid11bis lowered, so that the barrel tank lid11bis mounted on the barrel tank body11a.

Subsequently, in step ST15, the barrel tank11is set in the barrel polishing device10by the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30. In step ST15, the second conveyor C2is operated to move the barrel tank11to the first transfer region E6(refer to arrow R5). Next, the barrel tank11is hung by the elevating mechanism32to be moved to the barrel tank attachment and detachment region E7by the moving mechanism33(refer to arrow R6). Then, the barrel tank11is fixed to the barrel tank case12. Since the operation of the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30in step ST15is the same as the operation thereof in step ST6, a detailed description will be omitted.

Subsequently, in step ST16, finish polishing is performed by the barrel polishing device10. When the finish polishing is completed, step ST17is performed. In step ST17, the barrel tank11is detached from the barrel polishing device10by the barrel tank attachment and detachment device30. The barrel tank11detached from the barrel polishing device10is moved to the second placement region E8.

Subsequently, in step ST18, the barrel tank lid11bis detached from the barrel tank11using the lid attachment and detachment device40. In step ST18, the first conveyor C1is operated to move the barrel tank11to the lid detachment region E9(refer to arrow R8). Since the operation of the lid attachment and detachment device40in step ST18is the same as the operation of the lid attachment and detachment device40in step ST9, a detailed description will be omitted.

Subsequently, in step ST19, the water and the compound are discharged from the barrel tank body11a, from which the barrel tank lid11bhas been detached, using the washing device20. In step ST10, the first conveyor C1is operated to move the barrel tank body11ato the washing region E1(refer to arrow R9). Since the operation of the washing device20in step ST19is the same as the operation of the washing device20in step ST10, a detailed description will be omitted.

Subsequently, in step ST20, the barrel tank body11ais washed by the washing device20. As described in step ST11, in step ST20, the washing water is ejected from the washing nozzles22cand the barrel tank body11aoscillates around the rotary shaft21b. Accordingly, the inside of the barrel tank body11a, the polishing medium, and the workpiece are washed. After the washing is completed, the washing nozzles22care pulled out from the barrel tank body11aby the elevating device22e.

Subsequently, in step ST21, the workpiece is discharged from the barrel tank11. In step ST21, in a state where the opening portion of the barrel tank body11ais covered by the screen23b, the frame21ais rotated around the rotary shaft21bby the driving force of the rotating motor24a. Accordingly, the washing water and the polishing medium are discharged from the opening portion of the barrel tank body11a. The screen23bis provided with the plurality of openings that are sized to allow the washing water, cutting powder generated by barrel polishing, and the polishing medium to be passable therethrough and the workpiece not to be passable therethrough, and thus the polishing medium and the workpiece can be sorted by the rotation of the casing21.

Thereafter, the rotating motor24ais operated again to adjust the posture of the casing21such that the opening portion of the barrel tank11faces upward, and the screen23bis detached from the barrel tank body11aby the elevating device23e. Then, the barrel tank11is inverted again, so that the workpiece is discharged from the barrel tank11.

In the method MT, step ST22is performed in parallel with step ST19. In step ST22, the barrel tank lid11bis washed by the lid washing device90. Since the operation of the lid washing device90in step S22is the same as the operation of the lid washing device90in step ST13, a detailed description will be omitted.

Incidentally, when a series of barrel polishing is continuously performed, the polishing medium discharged from the barrel tank body11amay be fed to the sorting device50. The sorting device50separates the recovered polishing medium into a reusable polishing medium and a polishing medium of which the size has become unsuitable for barrel polishing due to wear. The reusable polishing medium is fed to the medium supply device60. The medium supply device60replenishes a new polishing medium to adjust the amount of polishing medium to a predetermined amount and to charge the predetermined amount of polishing medium into the barrel tank body11a. Here, the sorting device50can use a well-known technique such as a vibrating screen having a predetermined opening.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The washing device of one embodiment facilitates washing of the barrel tank in the centrifugal barrel polishing device to be able to contribute to reducing burden on an operator.

In the barrel polishing paper system according to the above-described embodiment, polishing by the centrifugal barrel polishing device can be automatically performed, thereby contributing to labor saving and a reduction in burden on an operator. More specifically, it is possible to automate operations such as charging and discharging a mass into and from the barrel tank, charging and discharging water and a compound into and from the barrel tank, attaching and detaching the barrel tank to and from the centrifugal barrel polishing device, and washing the barrel tank. Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of a series of processes including barrel polishing.

The washing device and the barrel polishing system according to various embodiments have been described above; however, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modified embodiments can be realized without departing from the concept of the invention. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the configuration where rough polishing and finish polishing are continuously and automatically performed has been described as an example; however, even when the polishing of a workpiece is completed by one cycle of polishing, the barrel polishing system of the above-described embodiment may be used.

In addition, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG.4, the barrel polishing system1includes the medium supply device60, the abrasive grain supply device70, and the workpiece supply device80as charging devices; however, the barrel polishing system1may not include the abrasive grain supply device70.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST