Patent Description:
In such a processing system, a plurality of processing devices are installed in a factory, a workpiece is sequentially transferred to the respective processing devices by a transfer device, and predetermined process is performed on the transferred workpiece in the processing devices. The predetermined process performed in the processing devices is automatically performed in accordance with a program.

Patent document <CIT>, which forms the basis of the preamble of appended claim <NUM>, according to its abstract, describes an enclosure for machine tools, such as a CNC machine. The transformable enclosure may include a series of modules or panels movable between a series of open and closed positions to allow an operator increased control over the production of a particular part and allowing parts of various shapes and dimensions to be machined without the need to switch between multiple machines.

Patent Document <NUM> discloses a workpiece automatic processing system including a plurality of workpiece automatic processing devices that define a plurality of work stations, and a conveying device that conveys a workpiece through the plurality of workpiece automatic processing devices. Each workpiece automatic processing device has a pair of fixed frames, a pair of movable frames, a pair of work heads, and control means. In the workpiece automatic processing system of Patent Document <NUM>, as the components of the respective workpiece automatic processing devices are made common to each other, the overall system is simplified and a control sequence is simplified (standardized).

Patent Document <NUM> discloses a processing device in which a robot for performing work on a first workpiece and a second workpiece is surrounded by a protective fence. A second workpiece moving mechanism, which puts the second workpiece thereon and moves the second workpiece from the outside of the protective fence to an operating range of the robot, is attached to the protective fence. In the processing device of Patent Document <NUM>, since the second workpiece moving mechanism is provided, a person does not need to enter the protective fence when the robot is made to perform work on the second workpiece. Accordingly, a sensor or a switch for detecting the person can be omitted, and the configuration of the processing device can be simplified.

In a factory in which the processing device is installed, structures, such as columns or walls, passages through which an operator passes, or the like become hindrances when installing the processing device, or existing objects that may degrade the workability in the factory as a result of the installation of the processing device are present. Such existing objects are disposed in a state where it cannot be said that the existing objects are necessarily regular in the factory, and the arrangement thereof also varies depending on factories. Particularly in a factory where long years have passed from the construction thereof, layout changes or reconstruction in the factory is performed. In order to install the processing device, it is actually necessary to check the installation location of the processing device in the factory. Additionally, in a case where the processing device is installed in a newly built factory, the installation location thereof is assumed from a drawing on the inside of the factory from before the completion of the factory, the processing device is designed and made in parallel with the construction of the factory, and the processing device is installed in the factory that has actually been completed. However, the installation location of the processing device in the completed factory may be different from that of the drawing.

In the workpiece automatic processing system disclosed in Patent Document <NUM>, since the components of the respective workpiece automatic processing devices are made common to each other, respective parts of the workpiece automatic processing system are regularly arranged. However, since the existing objects in the factory are irregularly disposed, there are cases where the respective parts of the workpiece automatic processing system may interfere with the existing objects in their original forms and may not be able to achieve their original functions. In that case, it is necessary to partially change the shapes or structures of the respective parts of the workpiece automatic processing system so as not to interfere with the existing objects.

Even in the processing device disclosed in Patent Document <NUM>, there is a case where the safe fence (protective fence) may not be able to be appropriately disposed because the existing objects in the factory interfere with a safety fence. For that reason, it is necessary to partially change the shape or arrangement of the safe fence so as not to interfere with obstacles.

Adding such partial changes may become the cause of increasing the cost required for the installation of the processing system into the factory and extending the installation time of the processing system.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a processing device capable of freely changing a layout in accordance with surrounding environments, and a processing system constituted of a plurality of the processing devices. Solution to Problem.

A processing device according to appended claim <NUM> is proposed.

Also, a processing system of the invention is for transferring a workpiece between a plurality of processing devices and applying a predetermined process on the workpiece in each processing device. The processing system includes: a plurality of the above mentioned processing devices; and a transfer device transferring the workpiece between the plurality of processing devices.

According to the processing device and the processing system of the invention, a layout can be freely changed in accordance with surrounding environments.

A processing device <NUM> and a processing system <NUM> related to an embodiment of the invention will be described below.

<FIG> is a schematic plan view of the processing system <NUM> related to the present embodiment. The processing system <NUM> of the present embodiment is one that transfers a workpiece W between a plurality of the processing devices <NUM> (1A to 1E) and performs work on the workpiece W in each processing device <NUM>, and includes the plurality of processing devices <NUM> (1A to 1E), and a transfer device <NUM> that transfers the workpiece W between the plurality of processing devices <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the plurality of processing devices <NUM> are provided along a transfer path formed by the transfer device <NUM>. Each processing device <NUM> is disposed apart from or adjacent to a processing device <NUM> on an upstream side or a downstream side in a transfer direction T of the workpiece W. The transfer device <NUM> is provided between the processing devices <NUM> juxtaposed apart from each other along the transfer path. The transfer path of the workpiece W of the processing system <NUM> is formed by transferring units <NUM> (to be described below) of the transfer device <NUM> and the processing devices <NUM>.

Each processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment constituting the processing system <NUM> includes a partition member <NUM> that partitions a processing space S and an external space outside the processing space from each other; a frame body <NUM> on which the partition member <NUM> is mounted; a positioning unit <NUM> that is supported by the frame body <NUM> and holds the workpiece W at a predetermined position in the processing space S; a processing unit <NUM> that is supported by the frame body <NUM> and performs predetermined process using a processing tool <NUM> on the workpiece W held by the positioning unit <NUM>; an opening/closing member <NUM> that is provided in the partition member <NUM> and capable of opening/closing a first opening <NUM> formed in the partition member <NUM>; and an instrument attachment member <NUM> which is provided in the partition member <NUM> and to which a control instrument <NUM> for controlling an input instrument and an output instrument (not illustrated) to be used with the processing device <NUM> is attached. The partition member <NUM> has a plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> on which the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively mounted.

The processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment further includes a control device <NUM> that performs high-order control of all the instruments included in the processing device <NUM>; a transferring unit <NUM> that enables transfer of the workpiece W between the processing space S and the external space; and a supply unit <NUM> that supplies another workpiece W (second workpiece W2) assembled to the workpiece W (first workpiece W1) transferred by the transferring unit <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the processing device <NUM> related to the embodiment of the invention, and <FIG> illustrates the processing device <NUM> of <FIG> excluding the partition member <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame body <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, a plurality of columns <NUM> supported by the base <NUM>, and a plurality of beams <NUM> supported by the columns <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the base <NUM> is constituted of a flat plate having a rectangular horizontal surface. The horizontal surface is an upper surface of the base <NUM>, and is an installation surface on which constituent members of the processing device <NUM> are installed. In the present specifications, a longitudinal direction of the horizontal surface of the base <NUM> may be referred to as an X direction, a lateral direction may be referred to as a Y direction, and a direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to the horizontal surface (XY plane) of the base <NUM> may be referred to as a Z direction. An upper side (upper side in the vertical direction) in <FIG> and <FIG> may be referred to as a Z-direction upper side, and a lower side may be referred to as a Z-direction lower side.

The plurality of columns <NUM> extending in the horizontal surface of the base <NUM> are disposed in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, three columns <NUM> are disposed along each long side of the horizontal surface of the base <NUM>, and a total of six columns <NUM> are provided on the horizontal surface. At upper ends of the columns <NUM>, each of the pair of beams <NUM> extending in the X direction is supported by the three columns <NUM>. Both ends of each of the pair of beams <NUM> extending in the X direction are connected via a pair of beams <NUM> extending in the Y direction to form a rectangular frame. Each beam <NUM> extending in the X direction is provided with an X-axis rail 13A.

Such a frame body <NUM> is provided with a partition member mounting section on which the partition member <NUM> is mounted. By mounting the partition member <NUM> on the partition member mounting section, the processing space S and the external space outside the processing space are partitioned. In the present embodiment, the base <NUM>, the columns <NUM>, and the beams <NUM> of the frame body <NUM> are equivalent to the partition member mounting section. In addition, the processing space S is a space where predetermined process is performed on the workpiece W and is a space surrounded by the partition member <NUM> in the X direction and the Y direction. In the following, in the X direction, a direction toward the inside of the processing space S is referred to as an X-direction inner side, and a direction toward the outside of the processing space S is referred to as an X-direction outer side. Additionally, in the Y direction, a direction toward the inside of the processing space S is referred to as a Y-direction inner side, and a direction toward the outside of the processing space S is referred to as a Y-direction outer side. Additionally, the expression "being surrounded by the partition member <NUM>" includes being surrounded by the partition member <NUM> a portion of which is open, in addition to being surrounded without any gap by the partition member <NUM>.

Additionally, the frame body <NUM> is provided with a positioning unit support part <NUM> and a processing unit support part. The positioning unit support part <NUM> supports the positioning unit <NUM> in the processing space S. In the present embodiment, the positioning unit support part <NUM> is disposed on the horizontal surface of the base <NUM> as will be described below, and the positioning unit support part <NUM> also serves as a transferring unit support part <NUM>. The processing unit support part supports the processing unit <NUM> in the processing space S. In the present embodiment, as will be described below, the pair of beams <NUM> extending in the X direction is equivalent to a processing unit support part <NUM>.

Moreover, the frame body <NUM> includes a control device support part. The control device support part supports the control device <NUM> outside (external space) the processing space S. In the present embodiment, a region (left sides of <FIG> and <FIG>), on the X-direction outer side with respect to one beam <NUM> extending in the Y direction, in the horizontal surface of the base <NUM> is equivalent to the control device support part. Additionally, the frame body <NUM> is provided with the transferring unit support part <NUM>. The transferring unit support part <NUM> supports the transferring unit <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the transferring unit support part <NUM> is disposed on the horizontal surface of the base <NUM> in the processing space S.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame body <NUM> of the present embodiment includes two sets of processing units <NUM> disposed side by side in the X direction. Each processing unit <NUM> is supported by the pair of beams <NUM> extending in the X direction. That is, in the present embodiment, the pair of beams <NUM> extending in the X direction is equivalent to the processing unit support part.

Each processing unit <NUM> includes a pair of X-axis sliders <NUM>, a Y-axis guide <NUM>, a Y-axis slider <NUM>, and a Z-axis guide <NUM>. The pair of X-axis sliders <NUM> is supported so as to be movable along the X-axis rail 13A provided on each beam <NUM>. Each of the pair of X-axis sliders <NUM> includes an X-axis drive motor (not illustrated) used as a drive source. The Y-axis guide <NUM> extending in the Y direction is straddled on each of the pair of X-axis sliders <NUM>. By synchronously controlling the X-axis drive motors, the pair of X-axis sliders <NUM> is synchronously driven along the X-axis rail 13A, and thereby, the Y-axis guides <NUM> are moved. The Y-axis slider <NUM> is attached to each Y-axis guide <NUM> so as to be movable along the Y-axis guide <NUM> (Y direction). The Z-axis guide <NUM> extending in the Z direction is attached to the Y-axis slider <NUM>. The Y-axis slider <NUM> includes a Y-axis drive motor (not illustrated) used as a drive source that moves the Y-axis slider <NUM>. By driving the Y-axis drive motor, the Y-axis slider <NUM> is moved along the Y-axis guide <NUM>, and thereby, the Z-axis guide <NUM> is moved. A plane moving mechanism that freely moves the processing tool <NUM> (to be described below) along a horizontal plane (XY plane) is constituted of the X-axis slider <NUM>, the Y-axis guide <NUM>, and the Y-axis slider <NUM>.

The processing unit <NUM> further includes a Z-axis slider <NUM> and a rotating mechanism <NUM>. The Z-axis slider <NUM> is attached to the Z-axis guide <NUM> so as to be movable along the Z-axis guide <NUM>. The Z-axis slider <NUM> includes a Z-axis drive motor (not illustrated) used as a drive source that moves the Z-axis slider <NUM>. The rotating mechanism <NUM> is provided at the end of the Z-axis slider <NUM> on the Z-direction lower side. The rotating mechanism <NUM> holds the processing tool <NUM> so as to be rotatable around a central axis (Z-axis) of the Z-axis slider <NUM> extending in the Z direction. A vertical plane moving mechanism that freely moves the processing tool <NUM> along a vertical plane (YZ plane) is constituted of the Y-axis slider <NUM>, the Z-axis guide <NUM>, and the Z-axis slider <NUM>.

The processing unit <NUM> further includes the processing tool <NUM> held by the rotating mechanism <NUM> of the processing unit <NUM>. The processing tool <NUM> is held so as to be movable in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction and rotatable in the Z-axis by the plane moving mechanism, the vertical plane moving mechanism, and the rotating mechanism <NUM>. According to such a processing unit <NUM>, predetermined process can be performed using the processing tool <NUM> on the workpiece W held by the positioning unit <NUM> to be described below.

A first processing tool 32A held by a first processing unit 30A provided on the supply unit <NUM> side out of the two sets of processing units <NUM> is, for example, a suction pad that holds the workpiece W with negative pressure. In the present embodiment, the second workpiece W2 placed on the supply unit <NUM> to be described below is held by the suction pad (first processing tool 32A), and then, is moved in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction by the plane moving mechanism and the vertical plane moving mechanism of the first processing unit 30A. Accordingly, the second workpiece W2, which is conveyed by the transferring unit <NUM> and positioned on the first workpiece W1 positioned by the positioning unit <NUM>, is positioned, and the second workpiece W2 is attached to the first workpiece.

A second processing tool 32B of a second processing unit 30B provided on the transferring unit <NUM> side out of the two sets of processing units <NUM> is, for example, a fastening tool (screw fastening tool) that fastens the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 with a screw. Specifically, after a hole formed in the second workpiece is aligned with a screw hole provided in the first workpiece, a screw supplied from a screw supply device (not illustrated) is supplied to the hole. Thereafter, a fastening tool (a driver bit mounted on a tip of the rotating mechanism <NUM>) is lowered while being rotated and engaged with the fastening tool, and the fastening tool is lowered while being further rotated and screwed into the screw hole, so that fastening work is performed. A third workpiece, which becomes fastened article in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are fastened to each other, can be manufactured by performing the fastening work with the second processing tool 32B.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the transferring unit support part <NUM> is a mount that is housed in the processing space S and placed on the horizontal surface of the base <NUM>. The transferring unit <NUM> is constituted of a conveyor provided on the mount, and transfers a pallet P, on which the workpiece W (the first workpiece W1 or the third workpiece) is placed, in the Y direction (the transfer direction T of the workpiece W). The transferring unit <NUM> is housed in the processing space S so as to face second openings <NUM> (to be described below) in the Y direction.

<FIG> is a view illustrating the positioning unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>, and <FIG> is an enlarged view of main parts of the positioning unit <NUM> of <FIG>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the transferring unit support part <NUM> also serves as the positioning unit support part <NUM>. The positioning unit <NUM> is attached to the positioning unit support part <NUM> on the X-direction outer side of the conveyor that is the transferring unit <NUM>.

The positioning unit <NUM> includes a drive part <NUM>, a forward/backward movable member <NUM>, a movable body <NUM>, and a positioning part <NUM>. The drive part <NUM> is an actuator, for example, an air cylinder. The columnar forward/backward movable member <NUM> is attached to the end of the drive part <NUM> on the X-direction inner side such that the center thereof extends in the X direction. The drive part <NUM> moves the forward/backward movable member <NUM> in the X direction. The end of the forward/backward movable member <NUM> on the X-direction inner side is provided with the movable body <NUM> having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The semicircular prismatic positioning part <NUM> is provided on the surface of the movable body <NUM> facing the X-direction inner side such that a cylindrical surface thereof faces the X-direction inner side. As the positioning part <NUM> abuts a positioned part P1 formed on the pallet P transferred by the transferring unit <NUM>, the pallet P is positioned.

In detail, the side surface of the pallet P facing the positioning unit <NUM> is provided with the positioned part P1 in which a V-shaped cutout P2 is formed. As the drive part <NUM> drives the forward/backward movable member <NUM> toward the X-direction inner side, the movable body <NUM> and the positioning part <NUM> move toward the X-direction inner side, and the cylindrical surface of the positioning part <NUM> abuts the V-shaped cutout P2 of the positioned part P1. Accordingly, the pallet P transferred by the transferring unit <NUM> is positioned. Since the position of the first workpiece W1 placed on the pallet P is defined by a plurality of pins formed on an upper surface of the pallet P, the first workpiece W1 is also positioned as the pallet P is positioned by the positioning unit <NUM>.

The supply unit <NUM> is disposed next to the transferring unit support part <NUM> in the X direction. The supply unit <NUM> is a mount that is housed in the processing space S and placed on the horizontal surface of the base <NUM>. The second workpiece W2 is placed on the pallet P placed on the mount. The pallet P is supplied by a transfer device or an operator (not illustrated) via, for example, third openings <NUM> from the outside of the processing space S.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the partition member <NUM> is constituted of a plurality of panel bodies 55A to 55D. The respective panel bodies are mounted on the frame body <NUM>, and thereby, wall surfaces for partitioning the processing space S from the external space are formed. Here, the term "partitioning" the processing space S and the external space from each other by the partition member <NUM> means that the processing space S is specified by the respective wall surfaces constituting the partition member <NUM>, extending surfaces of the respective wall surfaces, and imaginary planes connecting edges of the wall surfaces that face each other.

First, two wall surfaces (hereinafter referred to as XZ wall surfaces) extending in the X direction and the Z direction in the partition member <NUM> will be described. The two XZ wall surfaces have the same configuration. Two panel bodies located at both ends of each XZ wall surface in the X direction are uniform panel bodies 55A that are respectively provided with the uniform mounting sections <NUM> on which the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively mounted. In the present embodiment, the uniform panel bodies 55A are formed so that outer dimensions of them are the same as each other. Note that, in the present embodiment, the outer dimensions means that at least outer dimensions of the shares panel bodies on a plane for partitioning the processing space S and the external space are the same. Additionally, the uniform mounting sections <NUM> provided on the uniform panels have the same shape and size. The uniform panel bodies 55A are mounted on the base <NUM>, the columns <NUM>, and the beams <NUM>.

In two XZ wall surfaces of the partition member <NUM>, panel bodies are not provided on both sides of the transferring unit <NUM> in the Y direction, and the second openings <NUM> for allowing communication between the processing space S and the external space are formed. As described above, the transferring unit <NUM> is housed in the processing space S so as to face the second openings <NUM>. Also, the first workpiece W1 is transferred from the inside of the processing space S to the external space or from the external space to the processing space S through the second openings <NUM>.

Additionally, panel bodies are not provided on both sides of the supply unit <NUM> in the Y direction, either, and the third openings <NUM> for allowing communication between the processing space S and the external space is formed. The second workpiece W2 is supplied and replenished to the supply unit <NUM> through the third openings <NUM>.

Additionally, in the present embodiment, each XZ wall surface is constituted of three types of rectangular panel bodies including a uniform panel body 55A, a first panel body 55B, and a second panel body 55C. The lengths of long sides and short sides of a surface that forms an XZ wall surface of the first panel body 55B, are the same as those of the uniform panel body 55A.

First panel bodies 55B are disposed so as to surround a second opening <NUM> and a third opening <NUM>. In detail, two first panel bodies 55B are mounted on a beam <NUM> on the Z-direction upper sides of the second opening <NUM> and the third opening <NUM> such that long sides thereof become parallel to each other in the X direction and are adjacent to each other in the Z direction. Two first panel bodies 55B are mounted on the base <NUM>, a column <NUM>, and a beam <NUM> between the second opening <NUM> and the third opening <NUM> such that long sides thereof extend in the Z direction and are adjacent to each other the X direction. One first panel body 55B is mounted on the base <NUM>, a column <NUM>, and a beam <NUM> between the second opening <NUM> and a uniform panel body 55A or between the third opening <NUM> and a uniform panel body 55A such that long sides thereof extend in the Z direction.

The second panel body 55C has long sides having a length twice the length of the short sides of the first panel body 55B, and short sides having a length equal to that of short sides of the first panel body 55B. The second panel body 55C is disposed such that the long sides thereof become parallel to each other in the X direction. The second panel body 55C is disposed at upper parts (Z-direction upper sides) of the two juxtaposed first panel bodies 55B or upper parts of the juxtaposed uniform panel body 55A and first panel body 55B. The second panel body 55C is mounted on the beam <NUM>. The short sides of the second panel body 55C are connected such that short sides and short sides of the first panel body 55B disposed on the Z-direction upper side of the second opening <NUM> or the third opening <NUM> coincide with each other.

Second, two wall surfaces (hereinafter referred to as YZ wall surfaces) extending in the Y direction and the Z direction in the partition member <NUM> will be described. Each YZ wall surface connects one ends of the two XZ wall surfaces. Additionally, the two YZ wall surfaces are orthogonal to the XZ wall surfaces. One YZ wall surface (a left side of <FIG>) is constituted of one panel body (a third panel body 55D). The length of long sides of the third panel body 55D is equal to a distance between the two XZ wall surfaces, and the length of short sides thereof is equal to that of the short sides of the second panel body 55C. The third panel body 55D is disposed such that the long sides thereof extend in the Y direction, and the short sides thereof are connected such that short sides and both ends of the second panel body 55C located at one ends of the two XZ wall surfaces in the X direction coincide with each other. The third panel body 55D is mounted on the beams <NUM>. On the Z-direction lower side of the third panel body 55D, the processing space S is partitioned from the external space by the control device <NUM> to be described below.

The other YZ wall surface (a right side of <FIG>) is constituted of one or a plurality of panel bodies. In the illustrated example, the third panel body 55D is disposed at an upper part in the Z direction. However, as panel bodies that constitute this YZ wall surface, panel bodies having the same shape as any of the above-described first to third panel bodies 55B to 55D may be used, or panel bodies having a shape different from these may be used. Additionally, these panel bodies may be mounted on any of the base <NUM>, the columns <NUM> and the beams <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, the uniform panel bodies 55A including the uniform mounting sections <NUM> are disposed apart from each other in the X direction in each XZ wall surface. Accordingly, the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> include a first uniform mounting section disposed on one side in a direction (X direction) intersecting the transfer direction T (Y direction) of the workpiece W with the transferring unit <NUM> interposed therebetween, and a second uniform mounting section disposed on the other side. Additionally, since the two XZ wall surfaces have the same configuration, the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> include a third uniform mounting section disposed on one side in the transfer direction T (Y direction) of the workpiece W with the transferring unit <NUM> interposed therebetween, and a fourth uniform mounting section disposed on the other side.

The opening/closing member <NUM>, which is mutually selectively mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM>, is capable of opening/closing the first opening <NUM> formed in the partition member <NUM>. In the present embodiment, an opening, which is the uniform mounting section <NUM> provided in a uniform panel body 55A, is equivalent to the first opening <NUM>. The first opening <NUM> allows communication between the processing space S and the external space. The operator enters and exits the processing space S through the first opening <NUM>. Although a door is used in the illustrated example, a shutter or the like may be used as the opening/closing member <NUM>.

The control instrument <NUM> (for example, the control instrument that controls the input instrument and the output instrument that are included in the positioning unit <NUM> and the processing unit <NUM>), which controls the input instrument and the output instrument (not illustrated) that are used with the processing device <NUM>, is attached to the instrument attachment member <NUM> that is mutually selectively mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM>. The control instrument <NUM> includes a control instrument that amplifies an input signal of a sensor or diagnoses an operating state, an electromagnetic valve that switches the pressure operation to a pressure cylinder, or the like. The operator controls operating instruments, such as the positioning unit <NUM> and the processing unit <NUM>, which are included in the processing device <NUM>, by operating the control instrument <NUM> outside the processing space S.

In consideration of the surrounding environments, whether either the opening/closing member <NUM> or the instrument attachment member <NUM> is to be attached to each of the uniform mounting sections <NUM> of the four uniform panel bodies 55A provided in the partition member <NUM> can be selected. Also, whether neither the opening/closing member <NUM> nor the instrument attachment member <NUM> is to be attached to them can be selected. Here, the surrounding environments are struggling with obstacles and structures around the installation positions of the processing devices <NUM>, a operator's position, a passage for the operator, the transfer path of the workpiece W, and the like. In the present embodiment, the instrument attachment member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> near the control device <NUM> to be described below, and the door as the opening/closing member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> separated from the control device <NUM>.

The control device <NUM> is placed on the base <NUM> in the external space. The control device <NUM> is adjacent to the partition member <NUM> or the processing space S so as to partition the processing space S from the external space. The control device <NUM> performs superior-order control of all the instruments, such as the positioning unit <NUM>, the processing unit <NUM>, and the transferring unit <NUM>, which are included in the processing device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the control device <NUM> is a housing that houses a switch, a distributor, and a breaker that control the electrical power supplied to the instruments included in the processing device <NUM>, a controller including an operating program of the processing device <NUM>, and the like.

Since the processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment as described above includes the partition member <NUM> that partitions the processing space S from the external space, it is not necessary to newly provide a safe fence surrounding the processing device <NUM>. Also, the partition member <NUM> has the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> on which the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively mounted. For that reason, the arrangement of the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be selectively determined in consideration of the arrangement of existing objects in an installation location of the processing device <NUM>. Hence, according to the processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment, it is not necessary to markedly make changes for preventing any unexpected interference with the existing objects as in related-art processing devices. As a result, the plurality of processing devices <NUM> including the partition member <NUM> equivalent to the safe fence can be manufactured in a place that production work is easy. As a result, costs required for installation of the processing devices <NUM> into a factory can be reduced, and the installation time of the processing devices <NUM> can be prevented from being prolonged.

Additionally, the uniform mounting sections <NUM> including the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be selected in consideration of various conditions, such as the shapes of the installation location of each processing devices <NUM>, and the distance from the processing device <NUM> to an obstacle or an interference object, such as a column, a walls, or a passage. For that reason, the movement lines (movement distances) of the operator inside and outside the processing space S can be shortened, or the operation of the respective units, the control device <NUM>, and the control instrument <NUM> can be easily performed.

Additionally, since the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> have the same shape and size as each other, the uniform mounting sections <NUM> can be easily provided.

Additionally, the frame body <NUM> is provided with the positioning unit support part <NUM> that supports the positioning unit <NUM> in the processing space S, the processing unit support part <NUM> that supports the processing unit <NUM> in the processing space S, and the partition member mounting section on which the partition member <NUM> is mounted. For that reason, the frame body <NUM>, the positioning unit support part <NUM>, and the processing unit support part <NUM> can be unitized. As a result, installation of the processing device <NUM> becomes easy.

Additionally, the frame body <NUM> includes the base <NUM>, the plurality of columns <NUM> supported by the base <NUM>, and the plurality of beams <NUM> supported by the columns <NUM>. The processing space S can be effectively utilized up to an upper space thereof by providing such a frame body <NUM> with the positioning unit support part <NUM>, the processing unit support part <NUM>, and the partition member mounting section.

Moreover, the base <NUM> is provided with the positioning unit support part <NUM>, and the beams <NUM> are provided with the plane moving mechanism that moves the processing tool <NUM> in the plane. Accordingly, the processing tool <NUM> can be moved to a work position above the positioning unit support part <NUM>. As a result, the processing tool <NUM> can be moved without interfering with the positioned workpiece W.

Additionally, the processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment includes the control device <NUM> that performs superior-order control of all the instruments included in the processing device <NUM>, and the frame body <NUM> includes the control device support part that supports the control device <NUM> in the external space. Since the control device <NUM> is supported by the frame body <NUM>, the control device <NUM> can be unitized with the constituent members of the processing device <NUM>. For that reason, in a case where an installation factory where the processing device <NUM> is installed is different from a manufacturing factory where the processing device <NUM> is manufactured, the work of separating electric wires between the control instrument <NUM> and the control device <NUM> included in the processing device <NUM>, which occurs when the processing device <NUM> is transferred from the manufacturing factory to the installation factory, is unnecessary. Additionally, in the installation factory, installation of the control device <NUM> or re-connection of electric wires between instruments included in the processing device <NUM> and the control device <NUM> is unnecessary at the time of installation of the processing device <NUM>. Additionally, in the present embodiment, the control device <NUM> also serves as a portion of the partition member <NUM>, and the processing space S is partitioned from the external space by the partition member <NUM> and the control device <NUM>. For that reason, the number of panel bodies that constitute the partition part can be reduced. Accordingly, manufacturing of the processing device <NUM> becomes still easier.

Additionally, the processing device <NUM> of the present embodiment includes the transferring unit <NUM> that enables the transfer of the workpiece W between the processing space S and the external space. The partition member <NUM> has the second opening <NUM>, and the transferring unit <NUM> is housed in the processing space S so as to face the second opening <NUM>. Also, the frame body <NUM> includes the transferring unit support part <NUM> that supports the transferring unit <NUM> in the processing space S. For that reason, the processing device <NUM> is applicable to the processing system <NUM> that continuously performs a plurality of kinds of work on the workpiece W. In detail, the transfer path of the workpiece W can be formed by disposing a plurality of such processing devices <NUM> and connecting the transferring units <NUM> of the processing devices <NUM> to each other directly or via the transfer device <NUM>. The processing system <NUM> that continuously performs the plurality of kinds of work on the workpiece W transferred along the transfer path can be formed.

Additionally, the partition member <NUM> is constituted of the plurality of panel bodies 55A to 55D, the plurality of panel bodies include a plurality of uniform panel bodies 55A provided with the uniform mounting sections <NUM>, and the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively mounted on the uniform mounting sections <NUM> of the uniform panel bodies 55A. Since the partition member <NUM> is constituted of the plurality of panel bodies, the partition member <NUM> can be easily mounted on the frame body <NUM>. Since the plurality of panel bodies include the plurality of uniform panel bodies 55A provided with the uniform mounting sections <NUM>, the partition member <NUM> can be easily provided with the uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

Additionally, since the plurality of uniform panel bodies 55A are formed so that outer dimensions of them are the same as each other, any of the uniform panel bodies 55A can be easily mounted on the frame body <NUM>. Moreover, in the present embodiment, the partition member <NUM> is constituted of a plurality of types of panel bodies 55A to 55D. For that reason, if the same type of panel bodies (panel bodies having the same outer shape) are used, the mounting positions of the panel bodies are not limited. Thus, the panel bodies can be still more easily mounted on the frame body <NUM>. Since the outer dimensions of the uniform panel bodies 55A provided with the uniform mounting sections <NUM> are the same as those of the first panel bodies 55B, it is also possible to exchange the mounting positions of the uniform panel bodies 55A with the mounting positions of the first panel bodies 55B. As a result, as compared to a case where the outer dimensions of the uniform panel bodies 55A are different from those of the other panel bodies, the degrees of freedom of arrangement of the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be increased.

Additionally, the processing unit <NUM> has the plane moving mechanism that moves the processing tool <NUM> in the plane, and the plane moving mechanism is supported by the beams <NUM> of the frame body <NUM>. For that reason, it is possible to easily change the movement range of the processing tool <NUM> by the plane moving mechanism in accordance with extension or shortening of the beams <NUM>, and an optimal processing space S where the processing tool <NUM> can be moved toward the transferring unit <NUM>, the supply unit <NUM>, and the workpiece W placed on these can be set.

Additionally, the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> include the first uniform mounting section disposed on one side in the direction intersecting the transfer direction T (X direction) of the workpiece W with the transferring unit <NUM> interposed therebetween, and the second uniform mounting section disposed on the other side. Since the two uniform mounting sections <NUM> are disposed apart from each other in the direction (X direction) intersecting the transfer direction T of the workpiece W, the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be mounted on the same wall surfaces (XZ wall surfaces) of the partition member <NUM>.

Additionally, the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> include the third uniform mounting section disposed on one side in the transfer direction T of the workpiece W with the transferring unit <NUM> interposed therebetween, and the fourth uniform mounting section disposed on the other side. Since the two uniform mounting sections <NUM> are disposed apart from each other in the transfer direction T (Y direction) of the workpiece W, the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be mounted on the same side with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> in the X direction. Accordingly, even in a case where the transferring unit <NUM> is connected to the external transfer device <NUM>, the movement of the operator between the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> is not hindered by the transfer path of the workpiece W.

The processing device of the invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

For example, the uniform mounting sections are not limited to those provided at the uniform panel bodies, and a plurality of openings serving as the uniform mounting sections may be provided between the panel bodies that constitute the frame body. The opening/closing member or the instrument attachment member may be directly mounted on the openings serving as the uniform mounting sections. The outer dimensions of the opening/closing member and instrument attachment member do not have to be the same as each other, and the shapes or sizes of the opening/closing member and instrument attachment member are not particularly limited if these members are mounted on the uniform mounting sections. Additionally, at least two uniform mounting sections may be provided. Additionally, the partition member may be provided with at least one opening/closing member and at least one instrument attachment member and may be provided with a plurality of the opening/closing members and/or a plurality of instrument attachment members.

It is preferable that the partition member is formed of a plurality of panel bodies having the same outer dimensions (the lengths of the long sides and the short sides). Accordingly, since the mounting positions of the panel bodies are not limited, the mounting of the panel bodies onto the frame body becomes still easier. In a case where the plurality of panel bodies include the uniform panel bodies provided with the uniform mounting sections, the outer dimensions of the uniform panel bodies are the same as those of the other panel bodies. For that reason, the degree of freedom of the mounting positions of the uniform panel bodies are improved, and the degree of freedom of arrangement of the opening/closing member and the instrument attachment member are further improved. In a case where the plurality of panel bodies do not include the uniform panel bodies and the opening/closing member and the instrument attachment member are directly mounted on the plurality of panel bodies, it is preferable to make the outer dimensions of the opening/closing member and instrument attachment member the same as those of the plurality of panel bodies. Accordingly, the same effects as those in a case where the outer dimensions of the plurality of panel bodies including the uniform panel bodies are the same is obtained.

In addition, the partition member is not limited to being constituted of the plurality of panel bodies, and may be a fence or the like that partitions the processing space and the external space from each other and includes the plurality of uniform mounting sections as long as the partition member is mounted on (supported by) the frame body. Additionally, the plurality of panel bodies that constitute the partition member are not limited to flat plates, and panel bodies constituted of rectangular frames and wire nets stretched in the rectangular frames.

Additionally, the control device may serve as a portion of partition member as in the above embodiment. In detail, portions of the wall surfaces formed by the partition member or one of the wall surfaces formed by the partition member may be constituted of one side surface of a housing that constitutes the control device. In other words, the processing space may be surrounded by the partition member and the control device.

Moreover, the frame body may be constituted of only the base. In this case, the partition member may be self-supported on the installation surface of the base. In this case, the base is equivalent to the partition member mounting section. Additionally, in a case where the partition member is self-supported, a pillar-shaped supporting member provided perpendicularly on the installation surface of the base may be provided form a portion of the frame body, or the partition member may be mounted on the surface of the pillar-shaped supporting member that extends in the Z direction.

The base of the frame body has the horizontal surface (installation surface), and the installation surface may be provided only in a required portion after the overall base is integrally formed. For example, flat plate members including horizontal installation surfaces only in the respective locations of the base where the transferring unit support part, the control device, and the like are placed may be provided, and the respective flat plate members may be coupled to each other such that the overall base is united. Specifically, the flat plate members may be disposed if necessary on an upper surface of a coupling body formed by coupling H-beams or hollow prisms in a lattice to each other, and these may be united to form the base. Also, flat plate surfaces of the flat plate members or side surfaces (upper surfaces) of the H-beams or the prisms are used as installation surfaces, and the columns and the respective units of the frame body are disposed on these installation surfaces to provide respective support parts. Accordingly, the weight of the base can be achieved while securing strength as compared to a case where the base is formed by one flat plate.

The configurations of the positioning unit support part and the processing unit support part are not limited to those of the above embodiment, either. The positioning unit support part may be provided at the columns of the frame body, or the processing unit support part may be provided at the columns or the base. In addition, the term "providing" the frame body at the positioning unit support part or the processing unit support part means that the frame body includes these and these are attached to the frame body.

That is, the base or the columns themselves of the frame body may be used as the positioning unit support part, or the beams, the columns, or the base itself may be used as the processing unit support part. For example, the installation surfaces of the base in which the positioning unit and the processing unit are installed may be respectively used as the positioning unit support part and the processing unit support part. The positioning unit support part may be attached to the base or the columns of the frame body, or the processing unit support part may be attached to the beams, the columns, or the base.

The configuration of the processing unit is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be appropriately selected in accordance with the contents of work performed by the processing device. For example, a vertical multi-joint robot may be used as the processing unit, and the base (specifically, a portion of the base on which the vertical multi-joint robot is installed) may be used as the processing unit support part. In this case, the vertical multi-joint robot is disposed on the installation surface of the base. By using the vertical multi-joint robot, predetermined process can be performed in various postures. As other examples, the processing unit may be constituted of the vertical multi-joint robot and the same plane moving mechanism as that of the above embodiment, and a pair of beams including X-axis rails and extending in the X direction may be used as the processing unit support part. In this case, by attaching the vertical multi-joint robot to the Y-axis slider, the vertical multi-joint robot can be freely moved along the horizontal plane (XY plane), and predetermined process can be performed in various postures. Moreover, as another example, an X-axis rail may be attached to one of the beams extending in the X direction and used as the processing unit support part, and the processing unit may be constituted of the vertical multi-joint robot and one X-axis slider. In this case, the vertical multi-joint robot can be moved in the X direction. Additionally, in this example, the vertical multi-joint robot may be attached to each X-axis slider by providing two processing units, that is, by attaching two X-axis sliders to one X-axis rail. In addition, at least one processing unit may be provided, and three or more processing unites may be provided in accordance with the contents of work performed by the processing device.

The positioning unit may hold the workpiece at a predetermined position in the processing space, or may directly hold the workpiece transferred by the transferring unit.

The transferring unit may be disposed so as to face the second opening in the processing space, and one end or both ends of the transferring unit may protrude out of the processing space through the second opening. Additionally, in this case, the transferring unit support part may support the transferring unit in the processing space, or may support outside the processing space or on both sides of the inside of the processing space and the outside of the processing space. In a case where the transferring unit is supported outside the processing space, the transferring unit support part may be provided outside the processing space. Moreover, the transferring unit may be disposed on the installation surface of the base of the frame body, and this installation surface may be used as the transferring unit support part. Additionally, the transferring unit may be supported by the beams or the columns of the frame body, and the beams or the columns themselves may be used as the transferring unit support part.

The uniform sections may not be provided in accordance with the work performed in the processing device. In this case, the third opening can also be omitted. Additionally, the uniform sections may have a configuration in which the workpiece is transferred between the processing space and the external space, similarly to the transferring unit.

In the processing system <NUM> of the present embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, five processing devices <NUM> including the above-described configuration are installed along the transfer path formed in the transfer direction T of the workpiece W. A transfer device <NUM> is provided between the processing devices <NUM> spaced apart from each other in the transfer direction T. In detail, the transfer device <NUM> includes a first transfer device that is disposed adjacent to each of the plurality of processing devices <NUM> and is connected to one side of the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>, and a second transfer device connected to the other side of the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>, and the transfer path of the workpiece W in the processing system <NUM> is formed by the first transfer device, the second transfer device, and the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, a linear transfer path is formed by the transferring units <NUM> of the respective processing devices <NUM>, and a plurality of the transfer devices <NUM>. In addition, in the illustrated example, a conveyor is used as each transfer device <NUM>.

In the five processing devices <NUM> of <FIG>, the arrangements of the respective components excluding the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are the same. However, since the work contents in the respective processing devices <NUM> are different from each other, the configurations of the processing units <NUM> are different from each other. The processing devices <NUM> are referred to as a first processing device 1A, a second processing device 1B, a third processing device 1C, a fourth processing device 1D, and a fifth processing device 1E sequentially from the upstream side (the left side of <FIG>) in the transfer direction T of the workpiece W, and will be described below in detail.

The first processing device 1A is located on the uppermost stream (the left side of <FIG>) in the transfer direction T of the workpiece W. The first processing device 1A is installed adjacent to an L-shaped wall surface <NUM> in the factory. In the first processing device 1A, the arrangement of the control device <NUM> and the attachment positions of the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are adjusted such that the control device <NUM> is made operable (the operation of the control device <NUM> is not hindered by the wall surface <NUM>). Specifically, three sides of the processing space S of the first processing device 1A are surrounded by the L-shaped wall surface <NUM> and the control device <NUM>. For this reason, in the first processing device 1A, the control device <NUM> can be disposed only on the side where there is no wall surface <NUM> in a direction (an upward-downward direction in <FIG>) orthogonal to the transfer direction T of the workpiece W. Additionally, in the first processing device 1A, two uniform mounting sections <NUM>, which are not adjacent to the L-shaped wall surface <NUM>, among the four uniform mounting sections <NUM>, are available. The opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively attached to these uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the instrument attachment member <NUM> to which the control instrument <NUM> is attached is mounted to a uniform mounting section <NUM> near the control device <NUM> out of the two available uniform mounting sections <NUM>. For that reason, the movement distance between the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> when the operator operates the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> can be shortened. Additionally the opening/closing member <NUM> is attached to the remaining uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

The second processing device 1B is installed apart from the first processing device 1A on the downstream side of the first processing device 1A. The transferring unit <NUM> of the second processing device 1B is connected to the transferring unit <NUM> of the first processing device 1A via the transfer device <NUM>. There is no interference object or obstacle around the second processing device 1B. For that reason, in the second processing device 1B, the arrangement of the control device <NUM> can be set on both sides in the direction orthogonal to the transfer direction T of the workpiece W. Additionally, all the four uniform mounting sections <NUM> are available, and the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively attached to these four uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the opening/closing member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> of the second processing device 1B that faces the opening/closing member <NUM> of the first processing device 1A. For that reason, the movement line of the operator between the opening/closing members <NUM> of the first and second processing devices 1A and 1B can be linearly secured. Additionally, the instrument attachment member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> at a position that faces the opening/closing member <NUM> in the transfer direction T. That is, the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> is mounted on the uniform mounting section <NUM> of the second processing device 1B on the same side as the opening/closing member <NUM> of the first processing device 1A with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>. Moreover, the control device <NUM> of the second processing device 1B is also provided on the same side as the opening/closing member <NUM> of the first processing device 1A. For that reason, the entry and exit of the first second processing devices 1A and 1B into and from the processing space S and the movement distance when the operator operates the control instrument <NUM> and the control device <NUM> of the second processing device 1B can be made to be the shortest.

In the second processing device 1B, the opening/closing member <NUM> is also mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> separated in the direction orthogonal to the transfer direction T of the workpiece W from a uniform mounting section on which an instrument mounting member is mounted. By mounting the opening/closing member <NUM> on both sides of the transferring unit <NUM>, it is easy to deal with the trouble caused in the processing space S and perform periodical maintenance.

The third processing device 1C is installed apart from the second processing device 1B on the downstream side of the second processing device 1B. The transferring unit <NUM> of the third processing device 1C is connected to the transferring unit <NUM> of the second processing device 1B via the transfer device <NUM>. The third processing device 1C is installed adjacent to a column <NUM> in the factory. In the third processing device 1C, three uniform mounting sections <NUM>, which are not adjacent to the column <NUM> in the factory, among the four uniform mounting sections <NUM>, are available. The opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively attached to these uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, in the third processing device 1C, the column <NUM> is present adjacent to a uniform mounting section <NUM> at a position that faces the instrument attachment member <NUM> of the second processing device 1B. For this reason, the opening/closing member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> at a position, which faces the uniform mounting section <NUM> adjacent to the column <NUM>, among the four uniform mounting sections <NUM> in the third processing device 1C. For that reason, the movement distance of the operator between the opening/closing members <NUM> of the second and third processing device 1B and 1C can be made to be the shortest. A uniform mounting section <NUM>, which the instrument attachment member <NUM> is mounted, among the remaining uniform mounting sections <NUM>, is located on a side opposite to the opening/closing member <NUM> with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>. For that reason, the control device <NUM> is disposed on the side opposite to the opening/closing member <NUM> with the transfer device <NUM> interposed therebetween. Accordingly, the movement distance of the operator when the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> can be shortened. Additionally, the uniform mounting section <NUM> on which the instrument attachment member <NUM> is mounted is at a position that faces the instrument attachment member <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D (to be described below) located on the downstream side of the third processing device 1C. Accordingly, the movement distance of the operator between the control instruments <NUM> of the third and fourth processing devices 1C and 1D can be made to be the shortest.

The fourth processing device 1D is installed apart from the third processing device 1C on the downstream side of the third processing device 1C. The transferring unit <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D is connected to the transferring unit <NUM> of the third processing device 1C via the transfer device <NUM>. Additionally, the fifth processing device 1E is installed adjacent to the fourth processing device 1D on the downstream side of the fourth processing device 1D. The transferring unit <NUM> of the fifth processing device 1E is directly connected to the transferring unit <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D on the upstream side thereof, and is connected to the transfer device <NUM> on the downstream side thereof. For that reason, in each of the fourth and fifth processing device 1D and 1E, only two uniform mounting sections <NUM> on a side, which is not adjacent to the fourth processing device 1D or the fifth processing device 1E, among the four uniform mounting sections <NUM>, are available, and the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively attached to these two uniform mounting sections <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the opening/closing member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D that faces the opening/closing member <NUM> of the third processing device 1C. For this reason, the movement distance of the operator between the opening/closing members <NUM> of the third and fourth processing devices 1C and 1D can be made to be the shortest. Additionally, the opening/closing member <NUM> is mounted on a uniform mounting section <NUM> of the fifth processing device 1E on the same side as the opening/closing member <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>. For this reason, the movement distance of the operator between the opening/closing members <NUM> of the third and fifth processing devices 1C to 1E can be made to be the shortest.

In the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E, the instrument attachment member <NUM> to which the control instrument <NUM> is attached is mounted on the remaining uniform mounting section <NUM>. Since the instrument attachment member <NUM> of the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E is mounted on the uniform mounting section <NUM> on the same side with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>, the movement distance of the operator between the control instrument <NUM> of the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E can be made to be the shortest. Additionally, the control device <NUM> of the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E is disposed on the same side as the instrument attachment member <NUM> with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>. For that reason, the movement distance of the operator between the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> of the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E can be the shortest. Moreover, the instrument attachment member <NUM> of the fourth processing device 1D faces the instrument attachment member <NUM> of the third processing device 1C. That is, the instrument attachment member <NUM> and the control device <NUM> of the fourth or fifth processing device 1D or 1E are disposed on the same side as the instrument attachment member <NUM> and the control device <NUM> of the third processing device 1C with respect to the transferring unit <NUM> and the transfer device <NUM>. For that reason, the movement distance of the operator between the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> of the third or fifth processing device 1C to 1E can be made to be the shortest.

According to the processing system <NUM> of the above present embodiment, a plurality of the above-described processing devices <NUM> are provided. Thus, the plurality of processing devices <NUM> can be efficiently manufactured with common components, and the configuration of the partition member <NUM> of each processing device <NUM> manufactured in advance can be easily changed in accordance with surrounding environments. For that reason, the processing system <NUM> constituted of the plurality of processing devices <NUM> can be efficiently formed in accordance with the surrounding environments.

In detail, the partition member <NUM>, which requires a change in accordance with the surrounding environments among the components of each processing device <NUM>, has the plurality of uniform mounting sections <NUM> on which the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mutually selectively mounted. For that reason, the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> can be disposed at different positions in each processing device <NUM>. Hence, a uniform mounting section <NUM> on which the opening/closing member <NUM> and the instrument attachment member <NUM> are mounted can be selected in consideration of a relationship with the work performed by other processing devices <NUM>, and the mounting positions of the opening/closing members <NUM> and the instrument attachment members <NUM> of the other processing devices <NUM>, in addition to the surrounding environments of the installation location of each processing device <NUM>. Accordingly, the movement distance of the operator between the plurality of processing devices <NUM> can be shortened, and the processing system <NUM> that facilitates the operation of the control device <NUM> and the control instrument <NUM> can be formed.

Additionally, the transfer device <NUM> includes the first transfer device that is disposed adjacent to each of the plurality of processing devices <NUM> and is connected to one side of the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>, and the second transfer device connected to the other side of the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>, and the transfer path of the workpiece W in the processing system <NUM> is formed by the first transfer device, the second transfer device, and the transferring unit <NUM> of the processing device <NUM>. For that reason, since the installation of the processing device and the installation of the transfer device <NUM> can be individually performed, the processing system <NUM> can be efficiently formed as compared to a case where the transfer path of the processing system <NUM> is formed by a single device.

In addition, the configuration of the processing system is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, a plurality of the transfer paths may be provided, or the transfer path may be branched into a plurality of transfer paths and or be curved or folded. Additionally, the transferring unit of the processing device may be made to protrude from the second opening, and a transfer path outside the processing device may be formed by a transferring unit made to protrude from the adjacent processing device. Additionally, a portion of the transfer device may be used as the transfer path in the processing space, without providing the processing device with the transferring unit.

Additionally, a self-propelled transport device may be used as the transfer device. Additionally, in the processing system related to the above-described embodiment, in some of the plurality of transfer devices, the conveyor may not be provided as the transfer device, and the workpiece may be transported using the self-propelled transport device or the operator may transport the workpiece. Moreover, the above-described processing device can also be applied not only to the processing system of the above embodiment but also to a processing system which include the plurality of processing devices and in which the operator transports the workpiece between the plurality of processing devices.

Claim 1:
A processing device (<NUM>) comprising:
a partition member (<NUM>) partitioning a processing space (S) and an external space outside the processing space (S) from each other;
a frame body (<NUM>) on which the partition member (<NUM>) is mounted;
a processing unit (<NUM>) supported by the frame body (<NUM>) and configured to apply a predetermined process on a workpiece (W) using a processing tool (<NUM>) in the processing space (S);
an opening/closing member (<NUM>) installed on the partition member (<NUM>) and capable of opening/closing a first opening (<NUM>) formed in the partition member (<NUM>); and
an instrument attachment member (<NUM>) installed on the partition member (<NUM>) and to which a control instrument (<NUM>) for controlling the processing unit (<NUM>) is attached,
characterized in that the partition member (<NUM>) has a plurality of uniform mounting sections (<NUM>) on which the opening/closing member (<NUM>) and the instrument attachment member (<NUM>) can be selectively mounted.