Electronic component supply apparatus, reel apparatus, tape processing apparatus, and method for resupplying component stored tape

An electronic component supply apparatus (1) includes a reel apparatus (2) and a tape processing apparatus (3). The reel apparatus (2) has a tape reel (8) with a component stored tape (100) wound thereon, the component stored tape (100) having electronic components (105) stored therein. The tape processing apparatus (3) has an electronic component exposure unit (18) that exposes the electronic components (105), that are stored in the component stored tape fed from the reel apparatus (2), so as to be taken out from the component stored tape. The reel apparatus (2) is detachable from the tape processing apparatus (3).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of priority to Japanese Patent Application 2014-262524 filed Dec. 25, 2014, and to International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2015/078248 filed Oct. 5, 2015, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an electronic component supply apparatus, a reel apparatus, a tape processing apparatus, and a method for resupplying a component stored tape, and relates to, for example, an electronic component supply apparatus to be applied to a component mounting apparatus for mounting an electronic component on a board to produce an electronic circuit board.

BACKGROUND

An electronic component supply apparatus is used in a component mounting apparatus (chip mounter) for producing an electronic circuit board by mounting an electronic component on a board having a circuit pattern formed thereon. This electronic component supply apparatus is for supplying an electronic component to be mounted on a board. Since various kinds of electronic components are handled with a component mounting apparatus, a plurality of electronic component supply apparatuses are provided in the component mounting apparatus in line with the number of electronic components to be handled by the component mounting apparatus.

A component mounting apparatus includes a component mounting head for taking out an electronic component supplied by an electronic component supply apparatus and moves the electronic component onto a board so as to be mounted at a predetermined position. The electronic component supply apparatus feeds a component stored tape which includes and stores an electronic component such that the electronic component comes to a take-out position thereof, as well as externally exposes the electronic component stored in the component stored tape such that the component mounting head can take out the electronic component. Background art of this technical field includes Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-225716 below.

On a tape feeder (electronic component supply apparatus) recited in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-225716, a first part is mounted, the first part including a reel holding unit for holding a reel on which a tape-shaped component (component stored tape) is wound, and a component supply unit (electronic component exposure unit) from which an electronic component is taken out. On the tape feeder, a second part is also mounted, the second part including a tape-shaped component feeding apparatus for feeding the component stored tape to the electronic component exposure unit. The first and second parts can be separated from each other, with the first part detachable from the second part that is commonly used with the first part.

However, in the electronic component supply apparatus recited in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-225716, the reel holding unit and the electronic component exposure unit included in the first part cannot be separated from each other. Accordingly, when the electronic component supply apparatus is resupplied with a new component stored tape of the same kind, or a component stored tape of a different kind, the first part including both the reel holding unit and the electronic component exposure unit should be replaced as a whole. This replacement work might displace a disposition position of the electronic component exposure unit, i.e. an electronic component take-out position. As a result, in electronic component take-out operation by a component mounting head, there might occur defective component take-out, or a need to again instruct a system about an electronic component take-out position.

SUMMARY

An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic component supply apparatus capable of reliably taking out and supplying an electronic component stored in a component stored tape, a reel apparatus, a tape processing apparatus, and a method for resupplying a component stored tape.

An electronic component supply apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in including a reel apparatus having a tape reel with a component stored tape wound thereon, the component stored tape storing electronic components, and a tape processing apparatus having an electronic component exposure unit which exposes the electronic components, that are stored in the component stored tape fed from the reel apparatus, so as to be taken out from the component stored tape, in which the reel apparatus is detachable from the tape processing apparatus.

A reel apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in having a tape reel with a component stored tape wound thereon, the component stored tape storing electronic components, and in being detachable from a tape processing apparatus having an electronic component exposure unit which exposes the electronic components, that are stored in the component stored tape fed from the tape reel, so as to be taken out from the component stored tape.

A tape processing apparatus according to still another aspect of the present disclosure is characterized in having an electronic component exposure unit which exposes electronic components, that are stored in a component stored tape that stores the electronic components, so as to be taken out from the component stored tape, and in being detachable from a reel apparatus having a tape reel with the component stored tape wound thereon, the component stored tape being fed toward the electronic component exposure unit.

A method for resupplying a component stored tape according to still another aspect of the present disclosure is characterized as including a tape processing apparatus having an electronic component exposure unit which exposes electronic components that are stored in the component stored tape, so as to be taken out from the component stored tape. A reel apparatus has a tape reel with the component stored tape wound thereon. The component stored tape is fed toward the electronic component exposure unit. The method includes a step of supplying the electronic component, a step of detaching the reel apparatus from the tape processing apparatus having the reel apparatus attached thereto, and a step of attaching a different reel apparatus to the tape processing apparatus from which the reel apparatus is detached.

Objects, features and effects of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as necessary. In the following drawings, like members or corresponding members are identified by the same reference numerals to omit overlapping description thereof as necessary. Sizes and shapes of the members may be schematically represented so as to be modified or emphasized for convenience of explanation.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a plan view showing a configuration of a component mounting apparatus50to which an electronic component supply apparatus1according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is applied. As shown inFIG. 1, the component mounting apparatus50is an apparatus for mounting an electronic component105(seeFIG. 2) on a board52to produce an electronic circuit board.

Specifically, the component mounting apparatus50automatically mounts (attaches) the electronic component105at a predetermined position (a part to which cream solder is applied) of the board52transported by a board transport conveyer51. On the board52formed from epoxy resin or the like, a circuit pattern of copper foil or the like is formed by etching, printing, or the like.

The board52on which the electronic component105is mounted with cream solder interposed therebetween is heated within a furnace (not shown) in a later step. This results in soldering the electronic component105to the board52to manufacture an electronic circuit board with the electronic component105mounted.

On a base59of the component mounting apparatus50, a pair of component supply units53is provided on both sides so as to be opposed to each other with the board transport conveyer51(extending in a horizontal direction on the sheet ofFIG. 1) provided therebetween.FIG. 1shows an example in which two sets (two stages) of the pairs of component supply units53are disposed along a transport direction of the board52.

A plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1are aligned along the transport direction of the board52so as to be detachable from the component supply unit53and supply each of the various electronic components105to a take-out position (component attracting position) of each of the electronic components. These electronic component supply apparatuses1are arranged in parallel so as to be adjacent to each other with a slight gap (a gap of approximately 1 mm or less).

The board transport conveyer51has a transport device which transports the board52, and a board holding device which positions and holds the board52transported from a direction of an arrow A at a predetermined position (neither is shown). After the electronic component105is attached on the board52, the board transport conveyer51transports the board52in a direction of an arrow B.

FIG. 2is a perspective view showing a state where a component stored tape100wound on a tape reel8(seeFIG. 4) provided in the electronic component supply apparatus1is fed out from the tape reel8. The component stored tape100has a carrier tape101including the electronic component105stored in a component storing portion103, and a cover tape104which covers the component storing portion103storing the electronic component105. InFIG. 2, only the electronic component105stored in the component storing portion103at the front is shown for the sake of simplicity.

A plurality of recessed component storing portions103are aligned along a longitudinal direction of the carrier tape101. In one side of the carrier tape101along the longitudinal direction, a plurality of transporting force transmission holes102for applying a transporting force to the carrier tape101are aligned.

The cover tape104is adhered to the carrier tape101so as to cover an upper opening of the component storing portion103storing the electronic component105. This prevents the electronic component105from falling out during movement of the component stored tape100, as well as protects the electronic component105from an environmental effect (e.g. humidity).

In an initial state, the component stored tape100provided in the electronic component supply apparatus1is wound on the tape reel8as described above. When the component stored tape100in the electronic component supply apparatus1enters into an operation state, a transporting force is applied to the component stored tape100through the transporting force transmission holes102, and the component stored tape100is fed out. The component stored tape100is transported such that the electronic component105comes to a take-out position thereof, and the electronic component105is exposed so as to be taken out from the component stored tape100. Thereafter, the electronic component105in the component storing portion103of the component stored tape100is attracted by vacuum suction with a nozzle81(seeFIG. 10) of a component mounting head54(seeFIG. 1) and taken out.

As shown inFIG. 1, a pair of X beams55is disposed opposed to each other with the board transport conveyer51provided therebetween, the beams extending along a direction in which the board52is transported (a direction of the arrows A and B). The pair of X beams55is located above the board transport conveyer51(a front side of a direction vertical to the sheet ofFIG. 1).

At both end portions of the X beam55, actuators (not shown) (e.g. linear motors) are attached. This actuator supports the X beam55so as to be movable along a Y beam57in a direction orthogonal to a direction in which the board52is transported (the direction of the arrows A and B) (the orthogonal direction is a vertical direction on the sheet ofFIG. 1). Accordingly, the X beam55is allowed to go back and forth between the component supply unit53and the board52.

On the X beam55, the component mounting head54is disposed. The component mounting head54is moved by an actuator (not shown) (e.g. a linear motor) along a longitudinal direction (extending direction) of the X beam55. An end of the component mounting head54(at a rear side of the component mounting head54shown inFIG. 1in the direction vertical to the sheet ofFIG. 1) is provided with a plurality of the nozzles81(seeFIG. 10) for attracting the electronic component105(seeFIG. 2) in the component storing portion103of the component stored tape100described above. Further, the component mounting head54is moved by the actuator of the X beam55described above along an extending direction of the Y beam57.

Thus, the component mounting head54moves in a horizontal direction (a direction parallel to the sheet ofFIG. 1). Accordingly, the electronic component105supplied from the electronic component supply apparatus1disposed in the component supply unit53is attracted to the nozzle81of the component mounting head54, and then moved in the horizontal direction so as to be transported to a predetermined position (mounting position) of the board52to be mounted.

Then, after the electronic component105is pressed by the component mounting head54to the predetermined position (a part to which cream solder is applied) of the board52to be mounted, a vacuum of the nozzle81is released. This makes the electronic component105be mounted on the board52.

Between the component supply unit53and the board transport conveyer51, a recognition camera56and a nozzle retaining unit58are arranged.

The recognition camera56is, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera, for acquiring position deviation information of the electronic component105attracted to the component mounting head54. Using a captured image of the electronic component105attracted to the component mounting head54, which is taken by the recognition camera, the following is checked: how much the electronic component105deviates in the board transport direction (the direction of the arrows A and B) and in a direction orthogonal to the board transport direction, or how large a rotation angle of the electronic component105is. It goes without saying that it is also possible to check whether the electronic component105is attracted to the component mounting head54or not using an image captured by the recognition camera56.

When the component mounting head54moves above the board52from the component supply unit53toward the extending direction of the X beam55or the extending direction of the Y beam57, the component mounting head54passes over the recognition camera56. During the passage, the recognition camera56captures an image of the electronic component105to acquire position deviation information or the like.

The nozzle retaining unit58retains a plurality of the nozzles81(seeFIG. 10) attached to the component mounting head54, which nozzles are necessary to attract the various electronic components105. For example, when being instructed to replace a nozzle to a different nozzle adapted to a specific electronic component105, the component mounting head54independently moves in the extending direction of the X beam55and the extending direction of the Y beam57to move to the nozzle retaining unit58. Then, the nozzle81attached to the component mounting head54is replaced with the designated nozzle which is retained in the nozzle retaining unit58.

FIG. 3is a perspective view of an appearance of the electronic component supply apparatus1in a state where a reel apparatus2and a tape processing apparatus3are separated from each other. For clearer description, as shown inFIG. 3, front-rear, horizontal, and vertical directions are set. Herein, the vertical direction is coincident with a perpendicular direction. The front-rear direction is a direction orthogonal to the board transport direction (the direction of the arrows A and B) inFIG. 1, with “front” representing a direction closer to the board transport conveyer51, “rear” representing a direction distant from the board transport conveyer51. The horizontal direction is a direction along the board transport direction (the direction of the arrows A and B) inFIG. 1.

As shown inFIG. 3, the electronic component supply apparatus1includes the reel apparatus2and the tape processing apparatus3. The reel apparatus2is detachable from the tape processing apparatus3. The reel apparatus2has a casing85for storing various components therein, and the tape processing apparatus3has a casing86for storing various components therein. The casings85and86are separable into right and left casings. The casings85and86are made of, for example, metal such as aluminum alloy. The casing85of the reel apparatus2has an inverted L-shape and has a backward protrusion85A. The casing86of the tape processing apparatus3has an L-shape and has a forward protrusion86A. When the casings85and86are integrated, the protrusions85A and86A overlap each other in the vertical direction to make a rectangular casing long in the front-rear direction (seeFIG. 4).

FIG. 4is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the electronic component supply apparatus1in a state where the tape processing apparatus3is attached to the reel apparatus2.FIG. 4shows an internal configuration of the electronic component supply apparatus1so as to see through the casing85and the casing86(the same applies toFIG. 5toFIG. 9, andFIG. 20toFIG. 26).

The reel apparatus2has the tape reel8on which the component stored tape100that stores the electronic component105(seeFIG. 2) is wound. In the reel apparatus2, an upstream motor (motor; a first motor)5is disposed for supplying a driving force to feed the component stored tape100.

The tape processing apparatus3has an electronic component exposure unit18which exposes the electronic component105stored in the component stored tape100fed from the reel apparatus2so as to be taken out from the component stored tape100. In the tape processing apparatus3, a downstream motor (motor; a second motor)4is disposed for supplying a driving force to feed the component stored tape100. Further, the tape processing apparatus3has a control board6for controlling the downstream motor4, the upstream motor5and the like.

FIG. 5is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the tape processing apparatus3. The tape processing apparatus3includes downstream sprockets87having teeth (seeFIG. 10) which engage with the transporting force transmission holes102(seeFIG. 2) of the carrier tape101in order to apply a transporting force to the component stored tape100(seeFIG. 4). The downstream sprockets87include a first sprocket13and a second sprocket14. The first sprocket13and the second sprocket14, which are connected so as to be capable of transmitting power, operate synchronously or substantially synchronously. The first sprocket13has a worm wheel gear13H adapted to a worm gear12. The worm gear12meshed with the worm wheel gear13H is connected to the downstream motor4via a motor shaft11. Accordingly, rotation of the downstream motor4causes the first sprocket13and the second sprocket14to rotate to transport the component stored tape100.

The casing86of the tape processing apparatus3is provided with a second positioning slide guide16for guiding and positioning the reel apparatus2(seeFIG. 4), and a first positioning slide guide17to be guided and positioned on a truck40(seeFIG. 12). Although the second positioning slide guide16is, for example, a linear convex portion called a dovetail tenon, and the first positioning slide guide17is, for example, a linear concave portion called a dovetail groove (seeFIG. 3), the guides are not limited thereto.

The tape processing apparatus3includes the above-described electronic component exposure unit18. The electronic component exposure unit18includes a cover181having an inverted U-shaped section and provided with a take-out port183(seeFIG. 3) of the electronic component105(seeFIG. 2). The cover181is openable around a center axis of a pin182arranged at a front end of the cover181.

Further, the tape processing apparatus3includes a first connector7for supplying power to and transmitting/receiving a signal to/from the truck40(seeFIG. 12), and a second connector15for supplying power to and transmitting/receiving a signal to/from the reel apparatus2(seeFIG. 4).

The thus configured tape processing apparatus3enables the component stored tape100(seeFIG. 4) to be continuously transported, as well as enables the electronic component exposure unit18to expose the electronic component105(seeFIG. 2) in order to take out the electronic component105.

FIG. 6is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the reel apparatus2. The reel apparatus2includes the above-described tape reel8. The tape reel8is rotatably supported by a tape reel shaft23provided in the casing85. The reel apparatus2includes a tape guide cover35having an inverted U-shaped section and guides the component stored tape100. The tape guide cover35is openable around a center axis of a pin351arranged at a rear end portion of the tape guide cover35.

The reel apparatus2includes upstream sprockets88having teeth (seeFIG. 10) which engage with the transporting force transmission holes102(seeFIG. 2) of the carrier tape101in order to apply a transporting force to the component stored tape100. The upstream sprockets88include a third sprocket30and a fourth sprocket31. The third sprocket30and the fourth sprocket31, which are connected so as to be capable of transmitting power, operate synchronously or substantially synchronously. The third sprocket30includes a worm wheel gear30H adapted to a worm gear29. The worm gear29meshed with the worm wheel gear30H is coupled to a shaft28, and the shaft28is connected to the upstream motor5via a gear mechanism27and a motor shaft26. As the gear mechanism27, for example, a pair of bevel gears meshing with each other can be used.

The casing85of the reel apparatus2is provided with a third positioning slide guide34which is to be guided and positioned on the tape processing apparatus3. Although the third positioning slide guide34is a linear concave portion formed of, for example, a dovetail groove (seeFIG. 3), the guide is not limited thereto. The third positioning slide guide34slidably engages with the second positioning slide guide16(seeFIG. 5) in the front-rear direction. The reel apparatus2includes a third connector25for supplying power to and transmitting/receiving a signal to/from the tape processing apparatus3.

The reel apparatus2includes a first grip9and a second grip24for handling the reel apparatus2, and the electronic component supply apparatus1with the reel apparatus2and the tape processing apparatus3coupled. Although the first grip9and the second grip24are handleable by a machine, the grips can be manually handled by an operator. Further, the reel apparatus2includes a first sensor32and a second sensor33for detecting presence/absence of the component stored tape100.

Next, with reference toFIG. 7toFIG. 9, description will be made about how the component stored tape100moves in the reel apparatus2.FIG. 7toFIG. 9are drawings illustrating a procedure of storing the component stored tape100in the reel apparatus2.

First, the reel apparatus2is brought to a state where it is capable of transmitting/receiving power and a signal to/from the third connector25. Then, as shown inFIG. 7, operation of the first grip9by an operator leads to rotation of the tape guide cover35around the center axis of the pin351so as to be opened upward, the tape guide cover35covering a tape guide36located in an upper part of the reel apparatus2(see alsoFIG. 3). At this time, a sensor (not shown) senses an open state of the tape guide cover35, and information that the tape guide cover35is in the open state is stored in a control apparatus (not shown). Thereafter, a hole unit provided at the center of the tape reel8on which the component stored tape100is wound is fitted to the tape reel shaft23. Then, the component stored tape100is fed out from the tape reel8to draw a leading end thereof across a position of the fourth sprocket31.

Subsequently, as shown inFIG. 8, the operator operates the first grip9to close the tape guide cover35. When the tape guide cover35is closed, the sensor (not shown) senses a closed state of the tape guide cover35to send, to the control apparatus (not shown), information that the tape guide cover35is closed. At this time, when the first sensor32senses the presence of the component stored tape100, an operation command is sent to the upstream motor5from the control apparatus. Herein, even when the first sensor32senses the presence of the component stored tape100, the control apparatus refrains from sending an operation command to the upstream motor5unless the information that the tape guide cover35is in the closed state is received.

Subsequently, as shown inFIG. 9, when the operation command is sent to the upstream motor5, power is transmitted to the third sprocket30via the motor shaft26, the gear mechanism27, the shaft28, and the worm gear29. This leads to rotation of the third sprocket30and the fourth sprocket31so as to transport the component stored tape100in a forward direction. When the upstream sprocket88continues rotating to cause the leading end of the component stored tape100to arrive at the second sensor33, the second sensor33senses the presence of the component stored tape100. When the second sensor33senses the presence of the component stored tape100, the control apparatus (not shown) sends a stop command to the upstream motor5.

As has been described with reference toFIG. 7toFIG. 9, just setting the tape reel8on the reel apparatus2enables the component stored tape100to automatically stick out the leading end thereof.

Next, with reference toFIG. 10andFIG. 11, further description will be made about a method of exposing the electronic component105and a method of processing the component stored tape100.FIG. 10is a drawing illustrating how the electronic component105is exposed.FIG. 11is a drawing illustrating how the component stored tape100is processed.

The electronic component exposure unit18has an edge184. Cutting the cover tape104of the component stored tape100with the edge184makes the electronic component105be exposed. Herein, the component stored tape100is transported in a direction of an arrow C by rotation of the downstream sprocket87and the upstream sprocket88. This enables the electronic component exposure unit18to cut open a vicinity of the central part in a width direction of the cover tape104by the edge184in a direction of an arrow D without peeling the cover tape104from the carrier tape101, thereby exposing the electronic component105so as to be taken out.

The component stored tape100wound on the tape reel8is transported in the direction of the arrow C by the downstream sprocket87and the upstream sprocket88. The electronic component exposure unit18exposes the electronic component105by cutting open the cover tape104by the edge184to partially peel the cover tape104from the carrier tape101. The exposed electronic component105is attracted to and held by the nozzle81as a result of up-down movement, in the direction of the arrow D, of a component attracting and attaching device80with the nozzle81attached to an end thereof. The cover tape104cut open by the edge184and partially peeled is transported in a direction of an arrow E together with the carrier tape101by the rotation of the downstream sprocket87and the upstream sprocket88, and is then cut by a cutter unit89.

FIG. 12is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the truck40mounted with a plurality of electronic component supply apparatuses1. The truck40mounted with a plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1is arranged in the component supply unit53(seeFIG. 1) of the component mounting apparatus50. The truck40includes a holding stand41which holds a plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1, and a plurality of wheels42which movably support the holding stand41.

The holding stand41is provided with a fourth positioning slide guide44which engages with the first positioning slide guide17of the electronic component supply apparatus1to support and position the electronic component supply apparatus1. Although the fourth positioning slide guide44is, for example, a linear convex portion called a dovetail tenon, the guide is not limited thereto. The holding stand41is provided with a fourth connector45for the electronic component supply apparatus1to transmit/receive power and a signal via the truck40. Connection of the first connector7of the electronic component supply apparatus1to the fourth connector45of the truck40and engagement of the first positioning slide guide17with the fourth positioning slide guide44leads to positioning the electronic component supply apparatus1on the truck40.

Thus applying the truck40to the component supply unit53(seeFIG. 1) allows the component mounting apparatus50to be mounted with a plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1. Allowing a plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1to be connectable to the truck40enables provision of a plurality of kinds of the component stored tapes100.

FIG. 13is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the auto-moving truck (truck)60disposed behind the truck40shown inFIG. 12so as to be opposed to the truck40. The auto-moving truck60includes a reel apparatus holding stand (reel apparatus holding unit)61, and a plurality of wheels62which support the reel apparatus holding stand61so as to be freely movable. On the reel apparatus holding stand61, a plurality of the reel apparatuses2are arranged in parallel along the horizontal direction.

The auto-moving truck60includes a first grasping unit67and a second grasping unit68which grasp the first grip9and the second grip24of the reel apparatus2, respectively, an arm66which supports the first grasping unit67and the second grasping unit68, a direct acting apparatus65which supports the arm66so as to be movable in the horizontal direction, and a beam64which holds the direct acting apparatus65. The beam64is supported so as to be movable in the front-rear direction by a direct acting apparatus (not shown) which is movable in the front-rear direction.

The auto-moving truck60is mounted with a reader70for detecting a reference mark69provided in the truck40. For example, the reference mark69is provided at each of a plurality of positions in the truck40where the tape processing apparatus3is to be positioned, and the reader70is provided at each of a plurality of positions in the auto-moving truck60where the reel apparatus2is to be positioned. The reference mark69, however, can be provided in the auto-moving truck60, and in this case, the reader70is mounted on the truck40.

As has been described with reference toFIG. 13, the auto-moving truck60is positioned at a predetermined position as a result of moving freely so that the reference mark69is detected by the reader70. A position at which the auto-moving truck60is positioned is a position at which the third positioning slide guide34of the reel apparatus2mounted on the auto-moving truck60can be fit in the second positioning slide guide16of the tape processing apparatus3. This enables a desired reel apparatus2to be positioned at each tape processing apparatus3.

Next, with reference toFIG. 13toFIG. 16, description will be made about a method of attaching the reel apparatus2to the tape processing apparatus3by using the auto-moving truck60.FIG. 14toFIG. 16are drawings illustrating a method of attaching the reel apparatus2held on the auto-moving truck60to the tape processing apparatus3disposed on the truck40.

As shown inFIG. 13, when the tape processing apparatus3which needs the component stored tape100(seeFIG. 4) to be resupplied, according to an instruction from the control apparatus90(seeFIG. 18), the auto-moving truck60causes the designated reel apparatus2mounted on the auto-moving truck60to be positioned at a corresponding position behind the designated tape processing apparatus3mounted on the truck40. Thereafter, the direct acting apparatus65mounted on the beam64causes the first grasping unit67and the second grasping unit68supported movably via the arm66to grasp the first grip9and the second grip24, respectively.

Subsequently, as shown inFIG. 14, with the first grasping unit67and the second grasping unit68grasping the reel apparatus2, a direct acting apparatus (not shown) moves the beam64in the forward direction. As shown inFIG. 15, the beam64is moved further in the forward direction to connect the second connector15with the third connector25, and the second positioning slide guide16is engaged with the third positioning slide guide34to position the reel apparatus2at the tape processing apparatus3, and eventually at the truck40. This completes attachment (setting) of the reel apparatus2to the tape processing apparatus3to configure the electronic component supply apparatus1.

Subsequently, as shown inFIG. 16, in the electronic component supply apparatus1having been set, grasping with the first grasping unit67and the second grasping unit68is released. Thereafter, the beam64is returned to an original position to prepare for handling a subsequent reel apparatus. In some cases, the auto-moving truck60can move to supply a different truck40with the component stored tape100.

FIG. 17is a plan view illustrating operation of the auto-moving truck60. The component mounting apparatus50includes a plurality of stages ST1and ST2. InFIG. 17, although two stages are shown for convenience of explanation, the number of stages is not limited thereto, and the component mounting apparatus50can include any number of stages. InFIG. 17, although one board transport conveyer51is shown, the number of conveyers is not limited thereto, and for example, two board transport conveyers51can be provided to simultaneously transport two boards. Further, inFIG. 17, although a plurality of the reel apparatuses2arranged in parallel on the auto-moving truck60are spaced every other apparatus, arrangement of the apparatuses is not limited thereto and can be appropriately changed.

The board52is carried in the component mounting apparatus50from the direction of the arrow A inFIG. 17and carried out for a subsequent step in the direction of the arrow B. In the component supply unit53of each of the stages ST1and ST2in the component mounting apparatus50, the truck40is arranged. Each of the component supply units53includes the truck40mounted with a plurality of the electronic component supply apparatuses1described above.

For example, the auto-moving truck60arranged in the stage ST1shows a state where the reel apparatus2is being supplied from the auto-moving truck60to the component supply unit53. The auto-moving truck60arranged in the stage ST2shows a state where the reel apparatus2including the tape reel8(seeFIG. 4) having finished discharging the component stored tape100is recovered from the component supply unit53to the auto-moving truck60. Accordingly, setting up a production system so as to associate a mounting schedule of the board52with a schedule for resupplying the component stored tape100by the auto-moving truck60enables automatic resupplying of the component stored tape100.

Next, with reference toFIG. 18andFIG. 19, resupplying processing of the component stored tape100will be described.FIG. 18is a block diagram showing one example of a configuration of the control apparatus90attached to the component mounting apparatus50.FIG. 19is a flow chart showing a processing procedure of executing a method for resupplying the component stored tape100.

As shown inFIG. 18, the control apparatus90has a data processing unit91, a storage unit92, a display unit93, and an input apparatus94. As the control apparatus90, for example, a common PC (personal computer) can be used. The data processing unit91includes a CPU and executes control of each of the above-described units, various calculations, and the like according to a program.

The storage unit92has a ROM for storing various programs and data in advance, a RAM for temporarily storing a program and data as a working region, and a hard disk for storing various programs and data and is also used for storing a result or the like obtained by data processing. The display unit93is a display such as an LCD, and displays various kinds of information such as a calculation result obtained by the data processing unit91. The input apparatus94, which includes a keyboard, a mouse, an input interface with an external apparatus, and the like, is used for inputting various kinds of information.

As shown inFIG. 19, in Step S11, with the electronic component supply apparatus1including the reel apparatus2attached to the tape processing apparatus3disposed on the truck40, the control apparatus90causes the component mounting apparatus50to operate. The component stored tape100is transported forward by operation of the upstream motor5and the downstream motor4of the electronic component supply apparatus1, so that the electronic component105is supplied to the component mounting apparatus50.

In Step S12, determination is made whether a warning of component shortage is given or not. Specifically, the control apparatus90determines whether there is little remaining component stored tape100in the electronic component supply apparatus1or not by a sensor (not shown) or the like for detecting the residual tape. Without a warning of component shortage in Step S12(No in Step S12), the procedure returns to Step S11, so that the component mounting apparatus50continues operation.

On the other hand, with a warning of component shortage in Step S12(Yes in Step S12), an alarm warning against component shortage is issued (Step S13). This alarm may be displayed on the display unit93included in the control apparatus90or may be issued by a sound of a buzzer or the like.

Subsequently, in Step S14, in the electronic component supply apparatus1to which a warning of component shortage is to be given, from the tape processing apparatus3having the reel apparatus2attached thereto, the reel apparatus2is detached. The work of detaching the reel apparatus2from the tape processing apparatus3is automatically conducted using the auto-moving truck60according to an instruction from the control apparatus90. The work of detaching the reel apparatus2, however, can be manually conducted.

Subsequently, in Step S15, a different reel apparatus2is attached to the tape processing apparatus3in a state of having the reel apparatus2detached in Step S14. Although the different reel apparatus2is ordinarily a reel apparatus of the same kind as that previously attached, a different kind of reel apparatus can be used. The work of attaching the different reel apparatus2to the tape processing apparatus3is automatically conducted using the auto-moving truck60according to an instruction from the control apparatus90. The work of attaching the reel apparatus2, however, can be manually conducted.

Then, in Step S16, subsequently to a rear end of the preceding component stored tape100remaining in the electronic component supply apparatus1, the component stored tape100to be resupplied in the newly attached different reel apparatus2is automatically transported by operation of the upstream motor5and the downstream motor4. Thereafter, the procedure returns to Step S11, so that the component mounting apparatus50is operated.

As described in the foregoing, in the present embodiment, the electronic component supply apparatus1includes the reel apparatus2having the tape reel8on which the component stored tape100is wound, and the tape processing apparatus3having the electronic component exposure unit18which causes the electronic component105stored in the component stored tape100to be exposed from the component stored tape100so as to be taken out. The reel apparatus2is detachable from the tape processing apparatus3.

According to such a configuration, with the tape processing apparatus3being disposed and fixed at the component supply unit53, replacing the reel apparatus2enables the electronic component supply apparatus1to be resupplied with a new component stored tape of the same kind or a component stored tape of a different kind. This eliminates the need of changing a disposition position of the electronic component exposure unit18, i.e. a take-out position (component attracting position) of the electronic component105. As a result, the configuration has an effect of reducing defective component take-out caused by deviation of the take-out position of the electronic component105. A need of again instructing the component mounting apparatus50(system) about a take-out position of the electronic component105is also eliminated. In other words, the electronic component supply apparatus1can reliably take out and supply the electronic component105stored in the component stored tape100.

In the present embodiment, the electronic component exposure unit18includes the edge184for cutting open the cover tape104of the component stored tape100, so that the electronic component105is exposed by the cutting. In such a configuration, subsequently to a rear end of the preceding component stored tape100, transporting the component stored tape100to be resupplied enables the electronic component105to be exposed without peeling the cover tape104from the carrier tape101. Accordingly, it will be unnecessary to conduct “splicing”, work requiring operator's mastery of skill and time, connecting a terminal end of a preceding component stored tape with a leading end of a subsequent component stored tape to be resupplied.

In the present embodiment, after the reel apparatus2is detached from the tape processing apparatus3, the detached reel apparatus2is recovered into the reel apparatus holding stand61provided in the movable auto-moving truck60. At the time of attaching a different reel apparatus2to the tape processing apparatus3, the different reel apparatus2is supplied from the reel apparatus holding stand61of the auto-moving truck60. Such a configuration enables resupplying work of the component stored tape100to be conducted efficiently and quickly. Designing the auto-moving truck60to be freely movable within a line of the component mounting apparatus50to automatically supply and recover the reel apparatus2enables a reduction in errors caused by an operator, thereby improving efficiency of the resupplying work of the component stored tape100, as well as realizing labor saving.

In the present embodiment, a motor which supplies a driving force for feeding the component stored tape100is disposed in each of the reel apparatus2and the tape processing apparatus3. Specifically, the upstream motor5(the first motor) is disposed in the reel apparatus2, while the downstream motor4(the second motor) is disposed in the tape processing apparatus3. With such a configuration, use of both the respective motors4and5of the tape processing apparatus3and the reel apparatus2enables high-speed transportation of the component stored tape100by a large driving force. The reel apparatus2can be operated singly by providing a power source, a control board for controlling the upstream motor5, and a control apparatus (e.g. a computer). This enables an operation check to be conducted singly and an advance leading end search of the component stored tape100.

Second Embodiment

Next, with reference toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly with respect to points different from the above-described first embodiment, with description of common points omitted.FIG. 20is a drawing illustrating a configuration of an electronic component supply apparatus1awith a tape processing apparatus3aattached to a reel apparatus2ain the second embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 21is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the reel apparatus2aaccording to the second embodiment.

The second embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the first embodiment shown inFIG. 4in that the tape processing apparatus3aincludes a first control board6afor controlling a downstream motor4or the like, and the reel apparatus2aincludes a second control board10for controlling an upstream motor5or the like.

According to such second embodiment, providing the second control board10in the reel apparatus2aallows the reel apparatus2ato be operated singly by providing a power source and a control apparatus (e.g. a computer).

Third Embodiment

Next, with reference toFIG. 22toFIG. 24, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly with respect to points different from the above-described first embodiment, with description of common points omitted.FIG. 22is a drawing illustrating a configuration of an electronic component supply apparatus1bwith a tape processing apparatus3battached to a reel apparatus2bin the third embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 23is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the tape processing apparatus3baccording to the third embodiment.FIG. 24is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the reel apparatus2baccording to the third embodiment.

The third embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the first embodiment shown inFIG. 4in that the tape processing apparatus3bincludes an upstream motor5and a downstream motor4. Specifically, a motor which supplies a driving force for feeding a component stored tape100is disposed only in the tape processing apparatus3bout of the reel apparatus2band the tape processing apparatus3b. In other words, the tape processing apparatus3bis mounted with not only the downstream motor4which drives sprockets13and14of the tape processing apparatus3bbut also with the upstream motor5which drives sprockets30and31of the reel apparatus2b.

As shown inFIG. 24, a worm gear37meshed with a worm wheel gear30H is coupled to a shaft38, and the shaft38is coupled to a gear39(driving input unit). As shown inFIG. 22andFIG. 23, the gear39is meshed with a gear22. The gear22is coupled to a shaft21, and the shaft21is connected to the upstream motor5via a gear mechanism20and a motor shaft19. As the gear mechanism20, for example, a pair of bevel gears meshing with each other can be used. The reel apparatus2bhas no driving source in itself, and the sprockets30and31are driven to rotate by a driving force of the upstream motor5, which force is given to the gear39.

According to such third embodiment, since the reel apparatus2bis mounted with neither a motor nor a control board, no structural strength is required. Accordingly, a casing85of the reel apparatus2bcan be formed of integrally molded plastic, for example, which produces effects of weight saving and cost reduction.

A configuration in which a plurality of reel apparatuses2bcan be simultaneously attached to one tape processing apparatus3benables an increase in thickness in the horizontal direction of the tape processing apparatus3band an increase in size (diameter) of a motor to be commonly used, such as the upstream motor5and the downstream motor4. This allows high-speed transportation of the component stored tape100by a large driving force. The tape processing apparatus3bmay be equipped with only one motor to have a driving force distributed by a gear mechanism as a driving force for its own sprockets13and14and a driving force for the sprockets30and31of the reel apparatus2b.

Fourth Embodiment

Next, with reference toFIG. 25andFIG. 26, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly with respect to points different from the above-described third embodiment, with description of common points omitted.FIG. 25is a drawing illustrating a configuration of an electronic component supply apparatus1cwith a tape processing apparatus3cattached to a reel apparatus2cin the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 26is a drawing illustrating a configuration of the reel apparatus2caccording to the fourth embodiment.

The fourth embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the third embodiment shown inFIG. 22in that the tape processing apparatus3cincludes a first control board6afor controlling a downstream motor4and the like, and that the reel apparatus2cincludes a second control board10for controlling an upstream motor5and the like.

According to such fourth embodiment, providing the second control board10in the reel apparatus2callows the reel apparatus2cto be operated singly by providing a power source, a control apparatus (e.g. a computer), a motor, and the like.

Fifth Embodiment

Next, with reference toFIG. 27andFIG. 28, a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described mainly with respect to points different from the above-described first embodiment, with description of common points omitted.FIG. 27is a drawing illustrating how an electronic component105is exposed in the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 28is a drawing illustrating how a component stored tape100is processed in the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

An electronic component exposure unit18aexposes the electronic component105by peeling a cover tape104of the component stored tape100. Herein, the component stored tape100is transported in a direction of an arrow C by rotation of a downstream sprocket87.

The component stored tape100wound on a tape reel8is transported in the direction of the arrow C by the downstream sprocket87. The electronic component exposure unit18aexposes the electronic component105by peeling the cover tape104from a carrier tape101. The exposed electronic component105is attracted to and held by a nozzle81as a result of up-down movement, in a direction of an arrow D, of a component attracting and attaching device80with the nozzle81attached to an end thereof. The peeled cover tape104is transported in a direction of an arrow F by a cover tape feeding apparatus82and stored in a storehouse (not shown) or the like. The carrier tape101from which the cover tape104has been peeled is transported in a direction of an arrow E and cut by a cutter unit89.

Next, with reference toFIG. 29, resupply processing of the component stored tape100in the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.FIG. 29is a flow chart showing a processing procedure of executing a method for resupplying the component stored tape100in the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

In the fifth embodiment, since processing in Steps S21to S25is the same as the processing in Steps S11to S15inFIG. 19, description thereof is omitted.

In Step S26, an operator conducts splicing by connecting a rear end obtained by cutting, with dedicated scissors, a rear end portion of a preceding component stored tape100in the electronic component supply apparatus with a leading end obtained by cutting, with dedicated scissors, a leading end portion of a component stored tape100to be resupplied in a newly attached different reel apparatus. Thereafter, the procedure returns to Step S21, so that the component mounting apparatus50is operated.

Thus, the present disclosure is also applicable to a case where the tape processing apparatus of the electronic component supply apparatus includes the electronic component exposure unit18awhich exposes the electronic component105by peeling the cover tape104from the component stored tape100. Although the cover tape104is adhered to the carrier tape101at both sides of a component storing portion103which are orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the carrier tape101, the component storing portion103having the electronic component105stored therein, the present disclosure is applicable not only to a case where both of adhered parts on both sides are peeled to expose the electronic component105, but also to a case where only an adhered part on one side is peeled to expose the electronic component105. Specifically, the present disclosure is also applicable to a case where only an adhered part on one side of the cover tape104is peeled, and with an adhered part on the other side as a supporting point, the peeled cover tape104is bent in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape101to open an upper surface of the carrier tape101, thereby exposing the electronic component105.

Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to the embodiments in the foregoing, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiments have been described in detail for describing the present disclosure in a manner easy to understand, and the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to those including all the configurations described. A part of a configuration of a certain embodiment can be replaced with a configuration of another embodiment, and a configuration of another embodiment can be added to a configuration of a certain embodiment. A part of a configuration of each embodiment allows for addition, deletion and replacement with other configurations.

For example, the structure of the component mounting apparatus50is not limited to the forms recited in the above-described embodiments but may have a different form.

The present disclosure provides an electronic component supply apparatus capable of reliably taking out and supplying an electronic component stored in a component stored tape, a reel apparatus, a tape processing apparatus, and a method for resupplying a component stored tape.