Patent ID: 12195284

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An object of an embodiment is to provide a supply apparatus that facilitates handling, by a later-stage apparatus, of processing targets in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state or the like.

According to the embodiment, a supply apparatus includes a first conveyance portion, a second conveyance portion and a third conveyance portion. The first conveyance portion is configured to remove a plurality of processing targets from a feeder in which the processing targets are placed. The first conveyance portion is configured to convey the processing targets along a first conveyance direction. The second conveyance portion is disposed on a downstream side of the first conveyance portion. In the second conveyance portion, a plurality of conveyance portions having mutually different conveyance directions are sequentially connected. The second conveyance portion conveys the processing targets from an upstream side to the downstream side along a second conveyance direction. The third conveyance portion is disposed on a downstream side of the second conveyance portion. The third conveyance portion conveys the processing targets along a third conveyance direction while separating the processing targets from each other at a predetermined pitch.

A supply apparatus10will be described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings.

The supply apparatus (the load supply apparatus)10separates (divides up) a multi-layered load, and supplies the load (processing targets) at predetermined time intervals (predetermined pitches) to a sorting apparatus (distribution sorter) that sorts the multi-layered load according to each destination in, for example, a distribution system. In addition, the supply apparatus (component supply apparatus)10is, for example, in part of a manufacturing line, and separates (divides up) a large number of components (processing targets) of the same type or different types, and supplies a load (processing targets) to a later-stage apparatus at predetermined time intervals (predetermined pitch).

First Embodiment

A supply apparatus10according to a first embodiment will be described usingFIGS.1to3.

FIG.1is a schematic perspective view illustrating an operating state of the supply apparatus10.FIG.2is a schematic view illustrating a state in which the supply apparatus10illustrated inFIG.1is viewed from above. An XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is defined in the supply apparatus10inFIG.2.FIG.3illustrates a state in which the outside (one direction) is viewed from the inside (another direction) of the end, in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension, of a conveyance path. Therefore,FIG.3is a schematic view illustrating inclined states and height differences of a conveyance path along a direction of extension D when it is assumed that the directions of extension D (D10, D11, D12, D21, D22, D23, D31, D32) of a series of conveyance paths of the supply apparatus10illustrated inFIG.2are straight.FIG.4is a schematic view illustrating an article sorting apparatus (distribution sorter)110that processes processing targets S which are supplied from the supply apparatus10.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the supply apparatus10includes a feeder12into which a plurality of processing targets S are fed, a first conveyance portion14, a second conveyance portion16, and a third conveyance portion18.

An example of the feeder12is a basket. For example, the plurality of processing targets S are stored in the feeder12because a tipper, into which the plurality of (large number of) processing targets S are fed, is inclined, thus causing the plurality of processing targets S to slide with respect to the tipper. The processing targets S placed in the feeder12then make contact with, for example, an upstream end of a first conveyance path14a.

Note that, in the present embodiment, the end on the upstream side of the conveyance path itself is defined as the upstream end, and the end on the downstream side is defined as the downstream end.

The first conveyance portion14includes the first conveyance path14a, which conveys the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side along a first conveyance direction C1(C10, C11, C12). As illustrated inFIG.2, the directions of extension D10, D11, and D12of the first conveyance portion14are, taken as a whole, apparently straight along the X-axis direction, but as illustrated inFIG.3, the directions of extension D11and D12are inclined with respect to the X-axis and the Z-axis along the plane ZX. The directions of extension D11, D12are inclined with respect to a horizontal plane (ground).

The second conveyance portion16includes a second conveyance path16athat is disposed on the downstream side of the first conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14, and that is bent in a U shape (including a J shape), for example. The second conveyance path16aof the second conveyance portion16conveys the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side along second conveyance directions C21, C22, and C23.

The third conveyance portion18includes a third conveyance path18athat is disposed on the downstream side of the second conveyance path16aand that conveys the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side along a third conveyance direction C32. The third conveyance portion18is straight along the X-axis direction. For example, a load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system illustrated inFIG.4is disposed on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18. A component feeder (not illustrated) of the manufacturing line may be disposed on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18instead of the distribution sorter110.

As illustrated inFIG.2, when the supply apparatus10is viewed from above, the first conveyance portion14and the third conveyance portion18are separated from each other in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the first conveyance portion14and the third conveyance portion18face each other with a space interposed therebetween. A horizontal component of the first conveyance path14awhich is in the first conveyance direction C1and a horizontal component of the third conveyance path18awhich is in the third conveyance direction C32are each straight. The horizontal component of the first conveyance path14awhich is in the first conveyance direction C1and the horizontal component of the third conveyance path18awhich is in the third conveyance direction C32are parallel (including substantially parallel) to each other and directed in opposite directions.

The first conveyance portion14includes a first conveyor portion (removal conveyance portion)22adjacent to the downstream side of the feeder12along the X axis, and a second conveyor portion24disposed on the downstream side of the first conveyor portion22along the X axis. In the present embodiment, the first conveyor portion22includes a conveyance path22awhich is horizontal to a horizontal plane (ground) formed of, for example, an endless belt. The second conveyor portion24includes a first inclined conveyor (downward-inclined conveyance portion)32including a conveyance path32awhich is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane as a downward slope formed of, for example, an endless belt, and a second inclined conveyor (upward-inclined conveyance portion)34including a conveyance path34awhich is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane as an upward slope formed of, for example, an endless belt. The first inclined conveyor32is adjacent to the downstream side of the first conveyor portion22. The second inclined conveyor34is adjacent to the downstream side of the first inclined conveyor32. The first inclined conveyor (downward-inclined conveyance portion)32is inclined downward along the first conveyance direction C1due to its downward slope. The second inclined conveyor (upward-inclined conveyance portion)34is inclined upward along the first conveyance direction C1due to an upward slope.

The conveyance speed V10along the conveyance direction C10of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22is equal to or higher than the conveyance speed V11along the conveyance direction C11of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32of the second conveyor portion24. The conveyance speed V12along the conveyance direction C12of the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34of the second conveyor portion24is equal to or higher than the conveyance speed V11along the conveyance direction C11of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32of the second conveyor portion24.

An inclination angle θ1of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32with respect to the horizontal plane illustrated inFIG.3is preferably, for example, about 10° to 40°. An inclination angle82of the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34with respect to the horizontal plane is preferably, for example, about 10° to 40°.

It is preferable that the upstream end of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32is slightly lower between the downstream end of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22and the upstream end of the first inclined conveyor32. In this case, the processing targets S are easily delivered between the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22and the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the second conveyance portion16includes a first side-alignment conveyor (first side-alignment conveyance portion)42, which is adjacent to the downstream side of the first conveyance portion14along the X axis, a second side-alignment conveyor (second side-alignment conveyance portion)44, and a third side-alignment conveyor (third side-alignment conveyance portion)46. In the second conveyance portion16, the plurality of conveyors (conveyance portions)42,44, and46are connected so as to have each different directions of extension D21, D22, and D23and conveyance directions C21, C22, and C23. The directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the plurality of conveyors42,44, and46of the second conveyance portion16are U-shaped overall. The three conveyors42,44, and46may be arranged adjacent to each other, and do not need to be integrated as one conveyor.

The first side-alignment conveyor42of the second conveyance portion16is installed on the downstream side of the first conveyance portion14along the first conveyance direction C1. The second side-alignment conveyor44is installed on the downstream side of the first side-alignment conveyor42along a direction intersecting the first side-alignment conveyor42. The third side-alignment conveyor46is installed on the downstream side of the second side-alignment conveyor44along a direction intersecting the second side-alignment conveyor44.

As illustrated inFIG.2, when the supply apparatus10is viewed from above, the first side-alignment conveyor42extends along the direction of extension D21. The direction of extension D21of the first side-alignment conveyor42substantially coincides with the horizontal component of the first conveyance direction C1. The conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42is, for example, parallel to the plane XY. The conveyance direction C21of the processing targets S due to the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42is shifted from the horizontal component in the first conveyance direction C1. An inclined roller conveyor, for example, is used as the first side-alignment conveyor42. The conveyance direction C21is inclined at an inclination angle θa with respect to the direction of extension D21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42. The inclination angle θa is preferably, for example, about 10° to 40°. Therefore, the first side-alignment conveyor42is capable of bringing the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D21, that is, one end42b.

Assuming that the conveyance speed along the conveyance direction C21due to the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42is V21, the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42moves the processing targets S along the direction of extension D21of the first side-alignment conveyor42at a speed of V21·cos θa. The conveyance speed V21along the conveyance direction C21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42is preferably higher than the conveyance speed V12along the conveyance direction C12of the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34.

At an end (outside end)42bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D21of the first side-alignment conveyor42, a first wall portion52serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the first side-alignment conveyor42is provided. The first wall portion52extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42. Due to the presence of the first wall portion52, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the end in one direction of the first side-alignment conveyor42.

The first wall portion52includes an auxiliary conveyance portion52athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the first direction of extension D21from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42. The auxiliary conveyance portion52aof the first wall portion52is directed toward the other end (inside end)42cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D21of the first side-alignment conveyor42.

Here, a case where the auxiliary conveyance portion52aof the first wall portion52actively conveys the processing targets S along the first direction of extension D21from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42will be described as an example.

The auxiliary conveyance portion52aincludes an endless belt similar to that used in, for example, a belt conveyor. The normal direction of a conveyance surface52bof the endless belt is, for example, horizontal and faces the inside (other direction) in the width direction. The conveyance surface52bof the endless belt of the auxiliary conveyance portion52aoperates to move the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side at a speed of, for example, V21·cos θa and parallel to the first direction of extension D21.

As illustrated inFIG.3, a step H of, for example, about 10 cm is preferably formed between the downstream end of the second inclined conveyor34and the upstream end of the first side-alignment conveyor42.

The second side-alignment conveyor44extends, for example, in a direction along the Y axis orthogonal to the direction of extension D21(direction along the X axis) of the first side-alignment conveyor42. The conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44is, for example, parallel to the plane XY. An inclined roller conveyor, for example, is used as the second side-alignment conveyor44. The conveyance direction C22of the second side-alignment conveyor44is inclined at an inclination angle θb with respect to the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44. The inclination angle θb is preferably, for example, about 10° to 40°. Therefore, the second side-alignment conveyor44is capable of bringing the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D22, that is, one end44b.

Assuming that the conveyance speed along the conveyance direction C22due to the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44is V22, the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44operates to move the processing targets S along the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44at a speed of V22·cos θb (≥V21·cos θa). The conveyance speed V22along the conveyance direction C22of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44is preferably higher than the conveyance speed V21along the conveyance direction C21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42.

At an end (outside end)44bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44, a second wall portion54serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the second side-alignment conveyor44is provided. The second wall portion54extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D22of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. Due to the presence of the second wall portion54, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the second side-alignment conveyor44.

The second wall portion54includes an auxiliary conveyance portion54athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the second direction of extension D22from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. The auxiliary conveyance portion54aof the second wall portion54is directed toward the other end (inside end)44cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44.

Here, a case where the auxiliary conveyance portion54aof the second wall portion54actively conveys the processing targets S along the second direction of extension D22from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44will be described as an example.

The auxiliary conveyance portion54ais formed similarly to the auxiliary conveyance portion52a, for example. Therefore, the conveyance surface54bof an endless belt of the auxiliary conveyance portion54aoperates to move the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side at a speed of, for example, V22·cos θb and parallel to the second direction of extension D22.

The third side-alignment conveyor46is adjacent to the downstream side of the second side-alignment conveyor44along the Y axis. The third side-alignment conveyor46extends, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44. The conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46is, for example, parallel to the plane XY. An inclined roller conveyor, for example, is used as the third side-alignment conveyor46. The conveyance direction C23of the third side-alignment conveyor46is inclined at an inclination angle θc with respect to the direction of extension D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46. The inclination angle θc is preferably, for example, about 10° to 40°. Therefore, the third side-alignment conveyor46is capable of bringing the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D23, that is, one end46b.

Assuming that the conveyance speed along the conveyance direction C23due to the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46is V23, the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46operates to move the processing targets S along the direction of extension D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46at a speed of V23·cos θc (≥V22·cos θb). The conveyance speed V23along the conveyance direction C23of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46is preferably higher than the conveyance speed V22along the conveyance direction C22of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44.

At an end (outside end)46bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension. D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46, a third wall portion56serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the third side-alignment conveyor46is provided. The third wall portion56extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D23of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. Due to the presence of the third wall portion56, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the third side-alignment conveyor46.

The third wall portion56includes an auxiliary conveyance portion56athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the third direction of extension D23from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. The auxiliary conveyance portion56aof the third wall portion56is directed toward the other end (inside end)46cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46.

Here, a case where the auxiliary conveyance portion56aof the third wall portion56actively conveys the processing targets S along the third direction of extension D23from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46will be described as an example.

The auxiliary conveyance portion56ais formed similarly to the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a, for example. Therefore, the conveyance surface56bof an endless belt of the auxiliary conveyance portion56amoves the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side at a speed of, for example, V23·cos θc and parallel to the third direction of extension D23.

The third conveyance portion18includes a narrow conveyor62, a speed-regulating conveyor64, and a recovery portion66. In the third conveyance portion18, for example, a camera (sensor) (not illustrated) is installed for recognizing the speed of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62and the distance of the processing targets S before and after the conveyance path62a.

The narrow conveyor62is adjacent to the downstream side of the third side-alignment conveyor46along the X axis. The upstream end of the narrow conveyor62is formed to have a width smaller than the width in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D23of the downstream end of the third side-alignment conveyor46. The width of the narrow conveyor62is set according to the sizes of the processing targets S, for example. The narrow conveyor62has a width that does not allow a plurality of processing targets S of an appropriate size to be arranged in the width direction. The narrow conveyor62includes the conveyance path62awhich is horizontal to the horizontal plane (ground) formed of, for example, an endless belt. The upstream end of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62is arranged in a position adjacent to the downstream end in one direction in the width direction of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. The conveyance direction C31of the narrow conveyor62is parallel to the direction of extension D31of the narrow conveyor62. The conveyance speed V31along the conveyance direction C31of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62is preferably higher than the conveyance speed V23along the conveyance direction C23of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46.

At an end (outside end)62bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D31(conveyance direction C31) of the narrow conveyor62, a fourth wall portion68serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the narrow conveyor62is provided. The fourth wall portion68extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D31of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62. Due to the presence of the fourth wall portion68, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the narrow conveyor62.

Note that the end (outside end)62bof the narrow conveyor62and the end (outside end)46bof the third side-alignment conveyor46are preferably on a straight line along the X axis.

The fourth wall portion68includes an auxiliary conveyance portion68athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the direction of extension D31from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62. The auxiliary conveyance portion68aof the fourth wall portion68is directed toward the other end (inside end)62cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D31of the narrow conveyor62.

Here, a case where the auxiliary conveyance portion68aof the fourth wall portion68actively conveys the processing targets S along the direction of extension D31from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62will be described as an example.

The auxiliary conveyance portion68ais formed similarly to the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a,56a, for example. Therefore, the conveyance surface68bof an endless belt of the auxiliary conveyance portion68amoves the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side at a speed of, for example, V31and parallel to the direction of extension D31.

Note that a horizontal component of the first conveyance path14awhich is in the first conveyance direction C1and a horizontal component of the third conveyance path18awhich is in the third conveyance direction C32are each straight.

The speed-regulating conveyor64is adjacent to the downstream side of the narrow conveyor62along the X axis. The conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64is appropriately controlled to accelerate/decelerate relative to the conveyance speed of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62so that the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path64aare separated from each other at a predetermined pitch.

The upstream end of the speed-regulating conveyor64is formed to have substantially the same width as the width in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D31of the downstream end of the narrow conveyor62. The conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64is horizontal to the horizontal plane (ground) formed of, for example, an endless belt. The conveyance direction C32of the speed-regulating conveyor64is parallel to the direction of extension D32of the speed-regulating conveyor64. The conveyance speed V32along the conveyance direction C32of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64is controlled so as to separate the pitch between the processing targets S arranged in a line to establish a predetermined pitch. Therefore, the conveyance speed V32along the conveyance direction C32of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64can be increased and decreased.

At an end (outside end)64bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D32(conveyance direction C32) of the speed-regulating conveyor64, a fifth wall portion70serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the speed-regulating conveyor64is provided. The fifth wall portion70extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D32of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64. Due to the presence of the fifth wall portion70, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the speed-regulating conveyor64.

Note that the end (outside end)64bof the speed-regulating conveyor64and the end (outside end)62bof the narrow conveyor62are preferably on a straight line along the X axis.

The fifth wall portion70includes an auxiliary conveyance portion70athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the direction of extension D32from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64. The auxiliary conveyance portion70aof the fifth wall portion70is directed toward the other end (inside end)64cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D32of the speed-regulating conveyor64.

For example, the auxiliary conveyance portion70amay be formed as a conveyance surface that actively conveys the processing targets S similarly to the conveyance surfaces52b,54b,56b, and68bof the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a,56a, and68a. Here, the auxiliary conveyance portion70aincludes a plurality of rollers70bthat passively rotate upon contact with the processing targets S. The rollers70binFIG.3are arranged, for example, in a lattice pattern or in a line. The rollers70bare each formed in a spherical shape and are freely rotatable in these positions.

Note that the rollers70bmay also be formed so as to rotate about axes parallel to the Z axis, like rollers (wheels) of a roller conveyor.

The recovery portion66is adjacent to the downstream end along the X axis of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46of the second conveyance portion16and is adjacent to the other direction (inside) in the width direction of the narrow conveyor62. The recovery portion66includes an inclined surface72and a guide74.

The inclined surface72is formed as a flat surface or a curved surface. The inclined surface72is higher in a position (first end72a) closer to the narrow conveyor62, and is lower in a position (second end72b) closer to the other side in the width direction orthogonal to the horizontal component of the first conveyance portion14which is in the conveyance direction C1. The inclined surface72is higher in a position (third end72c) closer to the downstream end of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46, and is lower in a position (fourth end72d) away from the downstream end of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46along the X-axis direction. The processing targets S placed on the inclined surface72slide toward the fourth end72dof the inclined surface72under their own weight.

The first end72aof the inclined surface72on the narrow conveyor62side may be continuous with the downstream end of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62, or may be positioned, with a step, below the downstream end of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62.

The guide74is formed in a plate shape. The guide74is fixed to the second end72bof the inclined surface72. The guide74extends along the X-axis direction. The guide74is formed so as to protrude upward from the second end72b(an end close to the other side in the width direction orthogonal to the horizontal component of the first conveyance portion14which is in the conveyance direction C1) of the inclined surface72.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the supply apparatus10includes a fourth conveyance portion20that is adjacent to the recovery portion66that recovers the processing targets S in the third conveyance portion18and that conveys the processing targets S recovered by the recovery portion66, toward the feeder12.

The fourth conveyance portion20includes, for example, a curve conveyor92. The curve conveyor92is provided between the fourth end72dof the inclined surface72of the recovery portion66, and the feeder12.

The upstream end of a conveyance path92aof the curve conveyor92is adjacent to the fourth end72dof the inclined surface72. The downstream end of the conveyance path92aof the curve conveyor92is adjacent to the feeder12.

Note that the lengths along the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the first side-alignment conveyor42, the second side-alignment conveyor44, and the third side-alignment conveyor46of the second conveyance portion16, the widths orthogonal to the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23, and the angles θa, θb, and θc are set such that, for example, when the processing targets S at the inside end42cof the downstream end of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42pass through the first side-alignment conveyor42, the second side-alignment conveyor44, and the third side-alignment conveyor46as described subsequently, the processing targets S make contact with the outside end46bof the third side-alignment conveyor46.

Next, the operation of the supply apparatus10will be described.

In the present embodiment, the conveyance speed of the first conveyance portion14along the first conveyance direction C1(C10, C11, C12) matches the movement speed of the processing targets S in contact with the first conveyance portion14. Similarly, it is assumed that the conveyance speed of the second conveyance portion16along the second conveyance directions C21, C22, and C23matches the movement speed of the processing targets S in contact with the second conveyance portion16in a state where the processing targets S do not make contact with the wall portions52,54, and56. It is assumed that the conveyance speed of the third conveyance portion18along the third conveyance directions C31, C32matches the movement speed of the processing targets S in contact with the third conveyance portion18in a state where the processing targets S do not make contact with the wall portions68,70.

For example, the tipper is inclined, and the processing targets S are fed into the feeder12. Instead of the tipper or together with the tipper, a worker may feed the processing targets S into the feeder12.

The processing targets S, which may be in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state in the feeder12, sequentially move toward the upstream end of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22of the first conveyance portion14due to, for example, inclination of the floor surface of the feeder12.

At this time, the first conveyor portion22of the first conveyance portion14removes the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path22athrough the conveyance operation of the conveyance path22a, and separates and spreads the plurality of processing targets S while moving the processing targets S in the conveyance direction C10. The processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22are conveyed from the upstream side to the downstream side. In accordance with the conveyance operation of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22, other processing targets S overlaid on the upper side of the processing targets S slide with respect to the lower processing targets S in accordance with a frictional force with the lower processing targets S. Therefore, some of the multi-layered processing targets S collapse. Thus, for example, some of the multi-layered processing targets S are separated and scattered.

The processing targets S are delivered from the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22to the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32of the second conveyor portion24.

The conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32is inclined as a downward slope. A horizontally inclined component parallel to the upper surfaces of the processing targets S acts on the processing targets S placed on the upper side of the processing targets S which have, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape that makes contact with the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32. For this reason, the other processing targets S overlaid on the upper side of the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32aslide more readily with respect to the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32athan when the other processing targets S are horizontal as in the case of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22.

The conveyance speed V11of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32is lower than the conveyance speed V10of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22. Therefore, due to the conveyance speed difference between the horizontal conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22and the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32, the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32ahave undergone braking, and the processing targets S on the upper side of the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32aslide with respect to the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32aaccording to the law of inertia, and the multi-layered processing targets S collapse.

Therefore, the multi-layered processing targets S collapse in the first inclined conveyor32due to the inclined surface, which is the downward-sloping conveyance path32a, and the law of inertia. For this reason, for example, some of the multi-layered processing targets S are separated and scattered.

Depending on the shape and the like of the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32, the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32roll, and the processing targets S having a plurality of layers such as two layers collapse.

Some of the processing targets S are delivered from the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32of the second conveyor portion24to the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34of the second conveyor portion24in a state of a plurality of layers, for example.

The conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34is inclined as an upward slope. For this reason, the other processing targets S overlaid on the upper side of the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path34aslide more readily with respect to the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path34athan when the other processing targets S are horizontal as in the case of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22.

The conveyance speed V12of the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34is higher than the conveyance speed V11of the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32. Therefore, due to the conveyance speed difference between the conveyance path32aof the first inclined conveyor32and the conveyance path34aof the second inclined conveyor34, the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path34aenter an accelerated state, and the processing targets S on the upper side of the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path34aslide with respect to the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path34aaccording to the law of inertia, and the multi-layered processing targets S collapse.

Therefore, the multi-layered processing targets S further collapse in the second inclined conveyor34due to the inclined surface, which is the upward-sloping conveyance path34a, and the law of inertia. For this reason, for example, some of the multi-layered processing targets S are separated and scattered.

In this manner, the multi-layered processing targets S collapse due to the first conveyor portion22and the second conveyor portion24and are separated one by one. These multi-layered processing targets S may be components of the same type or components of different types.

The processing targets S are then delivered from the second inclined conveyor34to the first side-alignment conveyor42. Due to the step H between the second inclined conveyor34and the first side-alignment conveyor42, when the processing targets S are delivered from the second inclined conveyor34to the first side-alignment conveyor42, the processing targets S move significantly. At this time, the processing targets S are separated as a result of the processing targets being pulled so as to be removed along the conveyance direction C21by the first side-alignment conveyor42on the downstream side of the second inclined conveyor34.

Note that, inFIG.3, an example is illustrated in which the step H is provided between the second inclined conveyor34and the first side-alignment conveyor42. For example, a conveyor having a horizontal conveyance path may be arranged between the second inclined conveyor34and the first side-alignment conveyor42, and the step H may be between the conveyor having the horizontal conveyance path, and the first side-alignment conveyor42.

The processing targets S separated one by one move in the conveyance direction C21inclined with respect to the direction of extension D21of the first side-alignment conveyor42from the upstream side toward the downstream side, on the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S are brought toward the first wall portion52on the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42. For this reason, the distances in the width direction of the plurality of processing targets S gradually decrease from the upstream side toward the downstream side. Some of the processing targets S then abut against the first wall portion52between the upstream end and the downstream end of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42.

The processing targets S abutting against the first wall portion52on the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42move in a direction along the direction of extension D21of the conveyance path42aat a speed of V21·cos θa. The processing targets S move along the first wall portion52and are delivered from the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42to the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. Thus, the auxiliary conveyance portion52aof the first wall portion52prevents the first wall portion52from hindering the movement of the processing targets S when the processing targets S make contact with the first wall portion52.

The processing targets S move in the conveyance direction C22inclined with respect to the direction of extension D22of the second side-alignment conveyor44from the upstream side toward the downstream side, on the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. At this time, the conveyance direction of the processing targets S changes from the direction along the direction of extension D21or the direction along the conveyance direction C21to the direction along the conveyance direction C22. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S are brought toward the second wall portion54on the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. For this reason, the distances in the width direction of the plurality of processing targets S gradually decrease. Some of the processing targets S then abut against the second wall portion54between the upstream end and the downstream end of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S approaches a state of one line.

The processing targets S abutting against the second wall portion54on the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44move in a direction along the direction of extension D22of the conveyance path44aat a speed of V22·cos θb. The processing targets S move along the second wall portion54and are delivered from the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44to the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. Thus, the auxiliary conveyance portion54aof the second wall portion54prevents the second wall portion54from hindering the movement of the processing targets S when the processing targets S make contact with the second wall portion54.

The processing targets S move in the conveyance direction C23inclined with respect to the direction of extension D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46from the upstream side toward the downstream side, on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. At this time, the conveyance direction of the processing targets S changes from the direction along the direction of extension D22or the direction along the conveyance direction C22to the direction along the conveyance direction C23. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S are brought toward the third wall portion56on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. For this reason, the distances in the width direction of the plurality of processing targets S gradually decrease. Some of the processing targets S then abut against the third wall portion56between the upstream end and the downstream end of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46.

As described above, the plurality of processing targets S conveyed along the center in the width direction of the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14move through the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42, the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44, and the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46, that is, the laterally aligned states orthogonal to the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23are gradually eliminated as the direction is changed. The plurality of processing targets S are then arranged in one line, for example, on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. In this manner, the second conveyance portion16arranges the plurality of processing targets S in a line while bringing, as a whole, the plurality of processing targets S in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the U-shaped second conveyance path16a.

The processing targets S abutting against the third wall portion56on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46move in a direction along the direction of extension D23of the conveyance path46aat a speed of V23·cos θc. The processing targets S move along the third wall portion56and are delivered from the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46to the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62. Thus, the auxiliary conveyance portion56aof the third wall portion56prevents the third wall portion56from hindering the movement of the processing targets S when the processing targets S make contact with the third wall portion56.

The conveyance speed V31of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62is higher than V23·cos θc. Therefore, when the processing targets S are delivered from the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46to the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62, the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62widens the pitch of the plurality of processing targets S arranged in one line.

The processing targets S abutting against the fourth wall portion68on the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62move in a direction along a predetermined conveyance direction C31(direction of extension D31) of the conveyance path62aat a speed of V31. The processing targets S move along the fourth wall portion68and are delivered from the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62to the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64. Thus, the auxiliary conveyance portion68aof the fourth wall portion68prevents the fourth wall portion68from hindering the movement of the processing targets S when the processing targets S make contact with the fourth wall portion68.

When the processing targets S are delivered from the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62of the third conveyance portion18to the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18, the conveyance speed V32of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18is appropriately controlled based on, for example, before and after information on the processing targets S on the conveyance path62arecognized by the camera. That is, acceleration and deceleration of the conveyance speed V32along the predetermined conveyance direction C32(direction of extension D32) of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18are controlled, and the processing targets S arranged in one line are separated at a predetermined pitch on the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18.

The processing targets S separated by a predetermined pitch and arranged in one line are fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18. Alternatively, the processing targets S arranged in one line at a predetermined pitch are fed into the component feeder of the manufacturing line on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18.

When the processing targets S are abutting against the rollers70bof the auxiliary conveyance portion70a, the rollers70bof the auxiliary conveyance portion70arotate in that position, and move the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side at the speed V32of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18and parallel to the direction of extension D32. Thus, in the auxiliary conveyance portion70aof the fifth wall portion70, the friction between the fifth wall portion70and the processing targets S prevents the movement of the processing targets S from being hindered.

There is a possibility that the plurality of processing targets S are not arranged in one line on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46, and are arranged in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D23of the third side-alignment conveyor46, on the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. On the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46, among the processing targets S not arranged in one line, those processing targets S which have been separated in the width direction from the third wall portion56are not conveyed from the downstream end of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46to the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62and are delivered to the inclined surface72of the fourth conveyance portion20. Therefore, the processing targets S reach the fourth end72dof the inclined surface72while sliding near the boundary between the inclined surface72and the guide74.

The processing targets S that have reached the fourth end72dof the inclined surface72are conveyed to the feeder12by the curve conveyor92. Thus, the recovery portion66and the fourth conveyance portion20convey, among the processing targets S, those processing targets S which have failed to be aligned in one direction in the second conveyance portion16, toward the first conveyance portion14. Therefore, the recovery portion66is capable of recovering some of the processing targets S aligned in one direction in the second conveyance portion16, among the processing targets S. Therefore, the processing targets S which have been recovered by the recovery portion66and conveyed from the fourth conveyance portion20to the feeder12are once again arranged at a predetermined pitch with respect to other processing targets S by passing, from the feeder12, through the first conveyance portion14, the second conveyance portion16, and the third conveyance portion18, and are fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system or into the component feeder of the manufacturing line.

Thus, the first conveyance portion14of the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is used as a separation stage that separates, one by one, the plurality of bulk-loaded processing targets S. The second conveyance portion16is used as an arrangement stage for arranging, into one line, the processing targets S that have been separated one by one. The third conveyance portion18is used as an adjustment stage that separates the processing targets S that have been arranged in one line, at a predetermined pitch. Further, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is capable of conveying the plurality of processing targets S to the first conveyance portion (separation stage)14, the second conveyance portion (arrangement stage)16, and the third conveyance portion (adjustment stage)18in that order and of delivering the plurality of processing targets S to another apparatus.

At this time, regardless of whether the processing targets S are of the same kind or of different kinds, when, for example, many kinds of processing targets S are fed into the feeder12at the same time, the processing targets S can be fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110or into the component feeder of the manufacturing line in a state where the processing targets S have been separated in the first conveyance portion14, the processing targets S have been arranged in a line in the second conveyance portion16, and the processing targets S have been separated at a predetermined pitch in the third conveyance portion18. Therefore, the processing targets S which have been fed into the feeder12can be automatically separated by the supply apparatus10using the first conveyance portion14, the second conveyance portion16, and the third conveyance portion18, and can be arranged in one line and spaced at a predetermined pitch. The processing targets S can then be delivered from the supply apparatus10to a later-stage apparatus.

In the first conveyance portion14, the bulk-loaded processing targets S can be separated one by one using a plurality of conveyance portions such as the first conveyor portion22and the first inclined conveyor32and the second inclined conveyor34of the second conveyor portion24. Therefore, in the second conveyance portion16, it is possible to avoid a state in which the processing targets S have multiple layers. For this reason, the plurality of processing targets S are readily arranged in one line.

Note that the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment feeds processing targets S having different sizes, materials, and shapes into the first conveyance portion14regardless of whether the processing targets S are of different types or of the same type, thus enabling the processing targets S to be separated at a predetermined pitch and delivered to another apparatus. By appropriately forming the conveyance path16aof the second conveyance portion16, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is capable of handling relatively small processing targets S such as bolts or nuts, processing targets S which are larger than bolts or nuts such as beverage bottles, and relatively large processing targets S such as home delivery items.

In the present embodiment, due to the step H between the second inclined conveyor34and the first side-alignment conveyor42, the processing targets S are moved significantly when being delivered from the second inclined conveyor34to the first side-alignment conveyor42. At this time, the processing targets S can be separated as a result of the processing targets being pulled so as to be removed along the conveyance direction C21by the first side-alignment conveyor42on the downstream side of the second inclined conveyor34.

In the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment, for example, the conveyance speed V21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42of the second conveyance portion16is increased with respect to the conveyance speed V12of the conveyance path32aof the second inclined conveyor34of the first conveyance portion14; the conveyance speed V22of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44is increased with respect to the conveyance speed V21of the conveyance path42aof the first side-alignment conveyor42; the conveyance speed V23of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46is increased with respect to the conveyance speed V22of the conveyance path44aof the second side-alignment conveyor44; and the conveyance speed V31of the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62is increased with respect to the conveyance speed V23of the conveyance path46aof the third side-alignment conveyor46. In this case, at the time of delivery of the conveyance paths32a,42a,44a,46a, and62a, the distance between the processing targets S along the conveyance direction due to the speed difference can be taken. Therefore, the processing targets S can be prevented from staying on the conveyance path16aof the second conveyance portion16, and the processing targets S can be separated. Therefore, the processing targets S are prevented from interfering with each other, and the processing targets S are readily arranged in one line on the conveyance path46a.

In addition, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of conveyors42,44, and46for which the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the second conveyance portion16are U-shaped overall. The directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the plurality of conveyors42,44, and46are straight, for example. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in costs in comparison with a case where the conveyors42,44, and46are integrally formed according to the space.

Because the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the second conveyance portion16are U-shaped overall, it is easy to arrange the first conveyance portion14on the upstream side of the second conveyance portion16and the third conveyance portion18on the downstream side of the second conveyance portion16in a state of facing each other in the Y-axis direction. In addition, the horizontal components of the first conveyance portion14which are in the directions of extension D10, D11, and D12can be made parallel to the direction of extension D31of the narrow conveyor62and the direction of extension D32of the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18. Therefore, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment can be arranged in a space-saving manner. By appropriately setting the angles θ1and θ2and the angles θa, θb, and θc and appropriately setting the lengths and widths of the conveyance portions14,16, and18, the supply apparatus10can be formed according to the installation space. For example, by appropriately setting the lengths of the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23of the plurality of conveyors42,44, and46, the widths orthogonal to the directions of extension D21, D22, and D23and the inclination angles θa, θb, and θc of the conveyors42,44, and46, the size, shape, and the like of the second conveyance portion16can be appropriately set.

In the present embodiment, the narrow conveyor62of the third conveyance portion18has been described as using an endless belt. For example, ball rollers arranged in a grid may be used. In this case, for example, the processing targets S placed on the narrow conveyor62can be pushed out from the wall portion68to the recovery portion66. Therefore, the recovery portion66is capable of recovering some of the processing targets S aligned in one direction in the second conveyance portion16, among the processing targets S. For example, the supply apparatus10is capable of selectively conveying processing targets S of the same type or processing targets S of the same size to the third conveyance portion18.

In the present embodiment, the second conveyance portion16has been described as having the narrow conveyor62. Instead of the narrow conveyor62, a roller conveyor (not illustrated) having a width substantially equal to that of the third side-alignment conveyor46and extending in a direction of extension parallel to the direction of extension D32like the third conveyance portion18, for example, may be used. In this case, for example, a gate may be provided between the terminal end of the third side-alignment conveyor46and the roller conveyor arranged on the downstream side of the third side-alignment conveyor46. Sorting can be performed to determine whether or not to convey the processing targets S to the third conveyance portion18by opening and closing the gate or by detecting processing targets S at the gate.

The gate may be provided on the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18. When the conveyance speed of the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18is set to a constant speed, the timing for passing through the gate can be adjusted by opening and closing the gate, and the interval between the processing targets S can be separated by a predetermined distance.

In the present embodiment, the third conveyance portion18has been described as having the narrow conveyor62. Instead of the narrow conveyor62, the processing targets S may be delivered from the third side-alignment conveyor46to the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18through adsorption by a robot arm, for example. In this case also, sorting can be performed to determine whether or not to convey processing targets S to the third conveyance portion18by detecting the processing targets S using a sensor attached to the robot arm.

A robot arm may be used instead of the conveyance path18aof the third conveyance portion18. The third conveyance portion18may be a robot. The processing targets S conveyed to the downstream end of the third side-alignment conveyor46of the second conveyance portion16, for example, may be directly fed, by the robot arm, into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system or into the component feeder of the manufacturing line, for example.

As the recovery portion66of the third conveyance portion18, instead of the inclined surface72and the guide74, a collection container (not illustrated) for collecting processing targets S that are not arranged in a line in one direction may be installed, in the second conveyance portion16, in a position adjacent to the narrow conveyor62of the third conveyance portion18at the downstream end of the third side-alignment conveyor46of the second conveyance portion16. After the processing targets S are collected for an appropriate time in the collection container serving as the recovery portion66, the collection container may be moved to refeed each processing target S into the feeder12. Therefore, the fourth conveyance portion20is not necessarily required.

The fourth conveyance portion20may use, for example, a straight conveyor or a vertical sorter instead of the curve conveyor92. The position at the upstream end of the fourth conveyance portion20is a position adjacent to the speed-regulating conveyor64inFIG.2. The position at the upstream end of the fourth conveyance portion20may be a position adjacent to the narrow conveyor62.

In the above-described example, a case where the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a,56a, and68ain which the first wall portion52, the second wall portion54, the third wall portion56, and the fourth wall portion68actively move are provided has been described. The first wall portion52, the second wall portion54, the third wall portion56, and the fourth wall portion68may be configured to passively convey the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side. In a case where the first wall portion52, the second wall portion54, the third wall portion56, and the fourth wall portion68passively convey the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side, the configuration is preferably similar to that of the auxiliary conveyance portion70a. All of the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a,56a,68a, and70amay be configured to actively convey the processing targets S from the upstream side toward the downstream side. All of the auxiliary conveyance portions52a,54a,56a,68a, and70amay be configured to passively operate in accordance with conveyance of the processing targets S along the adjacent conveyance paths42a,44a,46a,62a, and64ato convey the processing targets S from the upstream side toward the downstream side.

As described hereinabove, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a supply apparatus10that facilitates handling of processing targets S in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state or the like by the distribution sorter110or a later-stage apparatus of a manufacturing line or the like, for example.

Second Embodiment

A supply apparatus10according to a second embodiment will be described usingFIGS.5and6. The same members or members having the same functions as the members described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference signs as much as possible, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

FIG.5is a schematic view illustrating a state in which the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is viewed from above. An XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is defined in the supply apparatus10inFIG.5.FIG.6illustrates a state in which the outside (one direction) is viewed from the inside (another direction) of the end, in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension, of a conveyance path. Therefore,FIG.6is a schematic view illustrating conveyance paths when it is assumed that the directions of extension D (D101, D201, D202, D31, D32) of a series of conveyance paths of the supply apparatus10illustrated inFIG.5are straight.

As illustrated inFIGS.5and6, the first conveyance portion14includes the first conveyance path14a, which conveys processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side along a first conveyance direction C101. The direction of extension D101of the first conveyance portion14is straight along the X-axis direction.

The first conveyance portion14uses, in the present embodiment, a vibration conveyor (vibration feeder), for example, instead of using the first conveyor portion22and the second conveyor portion24described in the first embodiment.

The second conveyance portion16includes a second conveyance path16abent in an L shape. The second conveyance path16aof the second conveyance portion16conveys the processing targets S from the upstream side to the downstream side along second conveyance directions C201and C202.

As illustrated inFIG.5, when the supply apparatus10is viewed from above, a horizontal component of the first conveyance path14awhich is in the first conveyance direction C1and horizontal components of a third conveyance path18awhich are in third conveyance directions C31and C32are each straight. The horizontal component of the first conveyance path14awhich is in the first conveyance direction C1and the horizontal components of the third conveyance path18awhich are in the third conveyance directions C31and C32are parallel (including substantially parallel) to each other and are directed in opposite directions. InFIG.5, the first conveyance portion14and the third conveyance portion18are shifted in the X-axis direction, but may face each other in the Y-axis direction depending on the settings for the width, size, and the like, of each conveyor.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the second conveyance portion16includes a first roller conveyor (conveyance portion)402adjacent to the downstream side along the X axis of the first conveyance portion14, a second roller conveyor (conveyance portion)404adjacent on the downstream side along the Y axis of the first roller conveyor402, and guides406provided on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402and the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. In the second conveyance portion16, the plurality of conveyors (conveyance portions)402,404are connected so as to have each different directions of extension D201, D202, and conveyance directions C201, C202. The directions of extension D201, D202of the plurality of conveyors402,404of the second conveyance portion16are L-shaped overall. The two conveyors402,404may be arranged adjacent to each other, and do not need to be integrated as one conveyor.

The first roller conveyor402of the second conveyance portion16is installed on the downstream side of the first conveyance portion14along a direction intersecting the first conveyance portion14. The second roller conveyor404is installed on the downstream side of the first roller conveyor402along a direction intersecting the first roller conveyor402.

The conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402is, for example, parallel to the plane XY. The conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404is, for example, parallel to the plane XY. The direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402and the conveyance direction of the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402are parallel. The direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404and the conveyance direction of the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404are parallel. The direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402and the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404are, for example, orthogonal to each other.

At an end (outside end)402bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402, a first wall portion502serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the first roller conveyor402is provided. The first wall portion502extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D201of the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402. Due to the presence of the first wall portion502, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the end402bin one direction of the first roller conveyor402.

The first wall portion502includes an auxiliary conveyance portion502athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the first direction of extension D201from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402. The auxiliary conveyance portion502aof the first wall portion502is directed toward the other end (inside end)402cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402.

In the present embodiment, the auxiliary conveyance portion502aof the first wall portion502includes, for example, a plurality of rollers502bthat passively rotate upon contact with the processing targets S. The rollers502binFIG.6are each formed in a spherical shape and are freely rotatable in these positions.

At an end (outside end)404bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404, a second wall portion504serving as a wall that prevents the processing targets S from falling off from one direction of the second roller conveyor404is provided. The second wall portion504extends, for example, parallel to the direction of extension D202of the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. Due to the presence of the second wall portion504, the processing targets S are prevented from falling off from the end404bin one direction of the second roller conveyor404.

The second wall portion504includes an auxiliary conveyance portion504athat actively or passively conveys the processing targets S along the second direction of extension D202from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. The auxiliary conveyance portion504aof the second wall portion504is directed toward the other end (inside end)404cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404.

In the present embodiment, the auxiliary conveyance portion504aof the second wall portion504includes, for example, a plurality of rollers504bthat passively rotate upon contact with the processing targets S. The rollers504binFIG.6are each formed in a spherical shape and are freely rotatable in these positions.

Note that the second wall portion504is also extended to an end (outside end)62bof a narrow conveyor62. The auxiliary conveyance portion504aof the second wall portion504is directed toward the other end (inside end)62cin the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D31of the narrow conveyor62. Assuming that a virtual extension line L of the other end (inside end)62cof the narrow conveyor62is parallel to the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404, the extension line L preferably intersects a guide surface409aof a second guide rod409described subsequently.

In the present embodiment, the guide406includes a first guide rod407and the second guide rod409.

The first guide rod407includes a guide surface407ainclined with respect to the direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402. The first guide rod407is fixed to, for example, the end402c. The guide surface407aof the first guide rod407is directed toward the end402bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D201. The guide surface407ais directed from the end402ctoward the end402bfrom the upstream side toward the downstream side. Note that the guide surface407ais separated from the end402bby a distance that enables the processing targets S to pass therethrough.

The second guide rod409includes the guide surface409ainclined with respect to the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. The second guide rod409is fixed to, for example, the end404c. The guide surface409aof the second guide rod409is directed toward the end404bin one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D202. The guide surface409ais directed from the end404ctoward the end404bfrom the upstream side toward the downstream side. Note that the guide surface409ais separated from the end404bby a distance that enables the processing targets S to pass therethrough.

Next, the operation of the supply apparatus10will be described.

The processing targets S, which are in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state, for example, in a feeder12, sequentially move toward the upstream end of the conveyance path22aof the first conveyor portion22of the first conveyance portion14due to, for example, inclination of the floor surface of the feeder12.

At this time, the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14removes the processing targets S in contact with the conveyance path14aby the conveyance operation of the conveyance path14a. The conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14conveys the plurality of processing targets S in the conveyance direction C101while vibrating. For this reason, the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14separates and spreads the plurality of multi-layered processing targets S in a path from the upstream end to the downstream end, for example.

In this manner, the multi-layered processing targets S collapse due to the first conveyance portion14and are separated one by one. These multi-layered processing targets S may be components of the same type or components of different types.

The processing targets S move along the first conveyance direction C101and are delivered from the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14to the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402. At this time, the conveyance direction of the processing targets S changes from the direction along the first conveyance direction C101to the direction along the direction of extension D201. Some of the processing targets S separated one by one are guided by the guide surface407aof the first guide rod407from the upstream side toward the downstream side on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402, and moves along a broken line indicated by reference sign C201inclined with respect to the direction of extension D201of the first roller conveyor402. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S are brought toward the first wall portion502on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402. For this reason, the distances in the width direction of the plurality of processing targets S gradually decrease from the upstream side toward the downstream side. Some of the processing targets S then abut against the first wall portion502between the upstream end and the downstream end of the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402.

Therefore, the first roller conveyor402is capable of bringing the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D201, that is, one end402b, in cooperation with the guide surface407aof the first guide rod407. The processing targets S can move on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402, for example, as indicated by reference sign C201.

The processing targets S abutting against the first wall portion502on the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402move in a direction along the direction of extension D201of the conveyance path402a, at the conveyance speed of the conveyance path402a. The processing targets S move along the first wall portion502and are delivered from the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402to the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404.

At this time, the conveyance direction of the processing targets S changes from the direction along the direction of extension D201or the conveyance direction C201to the direction along the direction of extension D202. The processing targets S are guided by the guide surface409aof the second guide rod409from the upstream side toward the downstream side on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404, and moves along a broken line indicated by reference sign C202inclined with respect to the direction of extension D202of the second roller conveyor404. Therefore, the plurality of processing targets S are brought toward the second wall portion504on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. For this reason, the distances in the width direction of the plurality of processing targets S gradually decrease. Some of the processing targets S then abut against the second wall portion504between the upstream end and the downstream end of the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404.

Therefore, the second roller conveyor404is capable of bringing the processing targets S placed on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the direction of extension D202, that is, one end404b, in cooperation with the guide surface409aof the second guide rod409. The processing targets S can move on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404, for example, as indicated by reference sign C202.

As described above, the plurality of processing targets S conveyed along the center in the width direction of the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14move through the conveyance path402aof the first roller conveyor402and the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404, that is, the laterally aligned states orthogonal to the directions of extension D201, D202are gradually eliminated as the direction is changed. The plurality of processing targets S are then arranged in one line on the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404. In this manner, the second conveyance portion16arranges the plurality of processing targets S in a line while bringing, as a whole, the plurality of processing targets S in one direction in the width direction orthogonal to the directions of extension D201, D202of the L-shaped second conveyance path16a.

The processing targets S move along the second wall portion504and are delivered from the conveyance path404aof the second roller conveyor404to the conveyance path62aof the narrow conveyor62of the third conveyance portion18.

Thereafter, the processing targets S arranged in one line are separated at a predetermined pitch in the conveyance path64aof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18.

The processing targets S separated by a predetermined pitch and arranged in one line are fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system illustrated inFIG.4on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18. Alternatively, the processing targets S arranged in one line at a predetermined pitch are fed into the component feeder of the manufacturing line on the downstream side of the third conveyance portion18.

Although an example in which the guide406includes the first guide rod407and the second guide rod409has been described, the first guide rod407and the second guide rod409may be integrated as a whole, for example, in an L shape.

Thus, the first conveyance portion14of the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is used as a separation stage that separates the plurality of bulk-loaded processing targets S. The second conveyance portion16is used as an arrangement stage for arranging, into one line, the processing targets S that have been separated. The third conveyance portion18is used as an adjustment stage that separates the processing targets S that have been arranged in one line, at a predetermined pitch. Further, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is capable of conveying the plurality of processing targets S to the first conveyance portion (separation stage)14, the second conveyance portion (arrangement stage)16, and the third conveyance portion (adjustment stage)18in that order and of delivering the plurality of processing targets S to another apparatus.

At this time, regardless of whether the processing targets S are of the same kind or of different kinds, when, for example, many kinds of processing targets S are fed into the feeder12at the same time, the processing targets S can be fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110or into the component feeder of the manufacturing line in a state where the processing targets S have been separated in the first conveyance portion14, the processing targets S have been arranged in a line in the second conveyance portion16, and the processing targets S have been separated at a predetermined pitch in the third conveyance portion18. Even if the processing targets S are of the same type, processing targets S having different sizes, materials, and shapes are fed into the first conveyance portion14, thus enabling the processing targets S to be separated at a predetermined pitch and delivered to another apparatus. Note that, by appropriately forming the conveyance paths402a,404aof the second conveyance portion16, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment is capable of handling not only relatively small processing targets S such as bolts or nuts, but also relatively large processing targets S such as home delivery items.

In addition, the supply apparatus10according to the present embodiment includes the plurality of conveyors402,404for which the directions of extension D201, D202of the second conveyance portion16are L-shaped overall. The directions of extension D201, D202of the plurality of conveyors402,404are straight, for example. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in costs in comparison with a case where the conveyors402,404are integrally formed according to the space.

Further, the direction of extension D101of the first conveyance portion14and the directions of extension D31and D32of the third conveyance portion18can be made parallel to each other, and the supply apparatus10can be disposed in a space-saving manner. By appropriately setting angles θa, θb and appropriately setting the lengths and widths of the conveyance portions14,16, and18, the supply apparatus10can be formed according to the installation space.

Note that the vibration conveyor of the first conveyance portion14described in the present embodiment may be the second conveyor portion24described in the first embodiment, and the first conveyor portion22described in the first embodiment may be arranged on the upstream side of the vibration conveyor.

Instead of the vibration conveyor of the first conveyance portion14described in the present embodiment, the first conveyor portion22and the second conveyor portion24described in the first embodiment may be used.

Although the recovery portion66and the fourth conveyance portion20of the third conveyance portion18are not illustrated inFIG.6, the recovery portion66and the fourth conveyance portion20of the third conveyance portion18described in the first embodiment may be arranged between the downstream end of the second roller conveyor404and the feeder12. If the processing targets S fall off from the end62bof the narrow conveyor62of the third conveyance portion18or the end64cof the speed-regulating conveyor64of the third conveyance portion18, the processing targets S can be recovered by the recovery portion66. Further, the recovery portion66and the fourth conveyance portion20convey, among the processing targets S, those processing targets S which have failed to be aligned in one direction in the second conveyance portion16, toward the first conveyance portion14. Therefore, the processing targets S are placed once again, via the feeder12, on the conveyance path14aof the first conveyance portion14, pass through the first conveyance portion14, the second conveyance portion16, and the third conveyance portion18, and are arranged at a predetermined pitch with respect to the other processing targets S, and are fed into the load feeder112of the distribution sorter110of the distribution system illustrated inFIG.4or into the component feeder of the manufacturing line.

As described hereinabove, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a supply apparatus10that facilitates handling, by a later-stage apparatus, of processing targets S in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state or the like.

In the case of the supply apparatus10of at least one embodiment described hereinabove, because the supply apparatus10includes the first conveyance portion14that separates the processing targets S, the second conveyance portion16that arranges the processing targets S in a line, and the third conveyance portion18that establishes the processing targets S at a predetermined pitch, it is possible to automatically separate and arrange the processing targets S in a multi-layered bulk-loaded state or the like, establish the processing targets S at a predetermined pitch, and facilitate handling of the processing targets S by a later-stage apparatus.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the inventions.