JP2019209596A - Printer and method for use of printer - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a printer which can suppress decrease in board production efficiency.SOLUTION: This printer 100 comprises: a squeegee which is moved along a mask having an opening, and prints solder on the mask onto a substrate via the opening; a reading part 93 which reads identification information I concerning the mask; and a control unit which determines propriety of use of a second mask M2 in a next substrate production on the basis of a reading result by the reading part 93 concerning identification information I of the second mask M2 which is prepared for the substrate production next to substrate production with use of a first mask S1 in the state that the first mask M1 is located at a printing position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus and a method for using the printing apparatus, and more particularly to a printing apparatus that performs printing on a substrate using a mask and a method for using the printing apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a printing apparatus that prints on a substrate using a mask is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, a squeegee that moves along a metal mask (mask) having an opening and prints a coating material on the metal mask on the substrate through the opening, and a stocker that stores a plurality of metal masks. An automatic screen printing apparatus (printing apparatus) is provided. The automatic screen printing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 is provided with a reading device that reads identification information of a metal mask stored in a stocker. Further, in this automatic screen printing apparatus, based on the identification information of the metal mask stored in the stocker, the metal mask suitable for the loaded substrate is specified, and the corresponding metal mask is pulled out from the stocker and used for printing. It is configured.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 04-197684

  However, the screen printing apparatus (printing apparatus) described in Patent Document 1 can be prepared by storing a plurality of metal masks (masks) in a stocker, but is suitable for the next substrate production (printing). If the metal mask is not stored in the stocker, there is an inconvenience that the next substrate production cannot be performed. In this case, since the next substrate production cannot be started until an operator supplies a metal mask suitable for the next substrate production, there is a problem that the efficiency of the substrate production is lowered.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one object of the present invention is to reduce the efficiency of substrate production because a mask suitable for the next substrate production is not prepared. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing apparatus and a method of using the printing apparatus that can suppress the occurrence.

  A printing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a squeegee that moves along a mask having an opening to print the coating material on the mask onto the substrate through the opening, a reading unit that reads the identification information of the mask, Based on the reading result by the reading unit of the identification information of the second mask prepared for use in the next substrate production of the substrate production using the first mask in the state where the first mask is arranged at the printing position, And a controller that determines whether or not the second mask is used in the next substrate production.

  The printing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is configured as described above, so that the first mask is prepared for use in the next substrate production while the substrate is being produced using the first mask. You can see the suitability of using two masks. As a result, even if the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, if the mask is replaced with a suitable mask while the substrate production using the first mask is being performed, the substrate production using the first mask ( Subsequent to printing, the next substrate production (printing) using the second mask can be performed. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the efficiency of substrate production due to the absence of a mask suitable for the next substrate production. In addition, during the production of the substrate using the first mask, the operator may replace the second mask with a suitable mask at an arbitrary time. Exchange work can be performed. As a result, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of the operator's replacement work.

  In the printing apparatus according to the first aspect, preferably, the control unit performs notification without stopping the substrate production using the first mask when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. It is configured as follows. With this configuration, it is possible to continue the substrate production using the first mask while prompting the operator to re-prepare the mask used for the next substrate production, which effectively reduces the efficiency of the substrate production. Can be suppressed.

  In this case, preferably, the control unit is configured to notify that the second mask is not suitable for the next substrate production if the second mask is not the correct type of mask to be used in the next substrate production. . With this configuration, it is possible to effectively promote replacement with the correct type of mask. Therefore, by replacing the mask with the correct mask before the end of the production of the substrate using the first mask, the substrate production (printing) can be continued. )It can be performed.

  When the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, in the configuration in which the notification is performed without stopping the production of the substrate using the first mask, the control unit preferably has the second mask as the next mask. If it is the correct type of mask to be used in substrate production but the state of the second mask is not suitable for substrate production, it is configured to notify that the second mask is not suitable for the next substrate production. ing. With this configuration, when there are a plurality of masks of the same type, it is possible to prompt the user to use a mask that is more suitable for substrate production (printing), so that the accuracy of substrate production (printing) can be improved. .

  In this case, preferably, the control unit is configured to determine the state of the second mask based on at least one of the number of times the second mask is used, tension, and strain. With this configuration, the second mask is suitable for substrate production (printing) when the second mask is used many times, when the tension of the second mask is small, or when the distortion of the second mask is large. Therefore, it is possible to prompt the user to replace the mask with one more suitable for the production of the substrate according to the state of the mask.

  In the printing apparatus according to the first aspect described above, preferably, a mask accommodating part that is disposed inside a housing that covers the apparatus main body and accommodates a second mask that is not used for substrate production, and for accessing the mask accommodating part. And a cover that covers the opening of the housing provided on the control unit, and the control unit is configured to control the open / close state of the cover based on the reading result of the identification information of the second mask by the reading unit. Yes. If comprised in this way, since opening of a cover can be restrict | limited based on the suitability of substrate production (printing) of a 2nd mask, according to the suitability of substrate production of a 2nd mask, it is to the mask accommodating part. Access can be restricted.

  In this case, preferably, the control unit is configured to perform control so as not to open the cover when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. If comprised in this way, it can suppress that the 2nd mask unsuitable for the next board | substrate production is accommodated in a mask accommodating part accidentally through the opening part by which the cover was open | released.

  In the configuration in which the cover is not opened when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, preferably, the control unit includes a lock mechanism that locks the cover in a closed state, and the control unit includes the second mask for the next substrate production. When the cover is not suitable for use, the cover is configured to be locked in a closed state by a lock mechanism. With this configuration, if the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the cover cannot be opened, so that the second mask that is not suitable for the next substrate production is erroneously placed in the mask housing portion. Can be effectively suppressed.

  In the configuration including the mask accommodating portion and the cover, preferably, the mask movement for accommodating the first mask positioned at the printing position in the mask accommodating portion and moving the second mask accommodated in the mask accommodating portion to the printing position. If the second mask is suitable for production of the next substrate, but the second mask cannot be moved to the printing position by the mask moving mechanism, the control unit controls so as not to open the cover. It is configured. If comprised in this way, when the size of the 1st mask and the 2nd mask differs, for example, when the 2nd mask cannot be moved automatically from a mask storage part to a printing position, a mask storage part Therefore, it is possible to prevent the worker from performing unnecessary setup work.

  In this case, preferably, when the second mask is suitable for the next substrate production, but the second mask cannot be moved to the printing position by the mask moving mechanism, the control unit manually and the second mask. A notification is made to replace the mask. With this configuration, when the first mask and the second mask cannot be automatically replaced, it is possible to prompt the operator to manually replace the first mask and the substrate using the first mask is being produced. Therefore, it is possible to grasp in advance that the operator needs to change the setup to the second mask later.

  In the printing apparatus according to the first aspect, preferably, a mask accommodating portion that accommodates a second mask that is not used for substrate production, and a first mask located at a printing position are accommodated in the mask accommodating portion, and a mask accommodating portion. A mask changing unit including a mask moving mechanism for moving the second mask accommodated in the printing unit to a printing position, and the control unit sets the mask when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. The second mask housed in the mask housing portion is controlled by the moving mechanism so as not to move to the printing position. If comprised in this way, even when the 2nd mask unsuitable for the next board | substrate production (printing) is accommodated in a mask accommodating part, since a 2nd mask is not moved to a printing position, a correct mask is arrange | positioned in a printing position. There is no need to remove unsuitable masks. As a result, it is possible to prevent the worker from performing useless setup work.

  A method of using a printing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is a method of using a printing apparatus that prints a coating material on a mask having an opening on a substrate through the opening, and reads the mask identification information and prints it. In the state where the first mask is arranged at the position, the next substrate production is performed based on the reading result of the identification information of the second mask prepared for use in the next substrate production of the substrate production using the first mask. The suitability of the use of the second mask is determined.

  In the method of using the printing apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, by configuring as described above, the substrate is produced using the first mask and is prepared for use in the next substrate production. It can be seen whether the second mask used is appropriate. As a result, even if the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, if the mask is replaced with a suitable mask while the substrate production using the first mask is being performed, the substrate production using the first mask ( Subsequent to printing, the next substrate production (printing) using the second mask can be performed. As a result, it is possible to provide a method of using a printing apparatus that can suppress a reduction in the efficiency of substrate production due to the absence of a mask suitable for the next substrate production. In addition, during the production of the substrate using the first mask, the operator may replace the second mask with a suitable mask at an arbitrary time. Exchange work can be performed. As a result, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of the operator's replacement work.

  According to the present invention, as described above, a printing apparatus and a method of using the printing apparatus that can prevent the efficiency of substrate production from being reduced due to the absence of a mask suitable for the next substrate production. Can be provided.

1 is a plan view showing an overview of the overall configuration of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. It is side surface sectional drawing along the II-II line of FIG. It is the front view which showed the outline | summary of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the mask accommodating part of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the outline of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. It is a figure explaining opening and closing of the cover of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating reservation of the next board | substrate production of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. It is the figure which showed an example of the board | substrate production plan list of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mask information list of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the replacement | exchange operation | movement of the mask of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a printing operation process of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the preparation process of the next board | substrate production of the printing apparatus by one Embodiment.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(Configuration of printing device)
A configuration of a printing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing apparatus 100 is an apparatus that transports a substrate B (see FIG. 2) in the X1 direction by a pair of conveyors 12 and prints solder on the substrate B at a printing position W. The board B is a printed board on which a component (electronic component) is mounted. Solder is a bonding material for bonding components onto the substrate B. Moreover, in the following description, the conveyance direction (X1 direction) of the board | substrate B by a pair of conveyor 12 (belt conveyor) and the reverse direction (X2 direction) are made into X direction, and the direction substantially orthogonal to X direction in a horizontal surface is set to Y. The direction. A direction substantially orthogonal to the X direction and the Y direction is defined as a Z direction (up and down direction). Note that solder is an example of the “coating material” in the claims.

  The printing apparatus 100 carries in the substrate B by the carry-in conveyor 13, performs a printing operation with the printing pattern Pa formed on the mask M on the surface of the carried-in substrate B, and then prints the substrate B on which the printing operation was performed. It is configured to be carried out by the carry-out conveyor 14. Here, the mask M has a rectangular flat plate shape in plan view (viewed from the Z1 direction side). The mask M has a plurality of openings P1 for forming the print pattern Pa and a non-opening portion P2 that is a region other than the plurality of openings P1. A frame F is attached to the outer periphery of the mask M.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printing apparatus 100 includes a base 2, a printing table unit 3, a camera unit 4, a mask clamp member 5, a squeegee unit 6, a mask exchange unit 7, a detection sensor 8, And a control device 9 (see FIG. 5). The control device 9 is an example of a “control unit” in the claims.

  The printing table unit 3 is provided on the base 2 and is configured to hold the substrate B and to be aligned with the mask M. Specifically, the printing table unit 3 includes an X-axis moving mechanism, a Y-axis moving mechanism, an R-axis moving mechanism, a Z-axis moving mechanism, a printing table 11, and a pair of conveyors 12 (see FIG. 1). ,including.

  The X-axis movement mechanism has an X-axis drive unit 31 (see FIG. 5) as a drive source, and moves the print table 11 in the X direction. The Y-axis movement mechanism has a Y-axis drive unit 32 (see FIG. 5) as a drive source, and moves the print table 11 in the Y direction. The R-axis movement mechanism has an R-axis drive unit 33 (see FIG. 5) as a drive source, and rotates the print table 11 around a rotation axis extending in the Z direction. The Z-axis movement mechanism has a Z-axis drive unit 34 (see FIG. 5) as a drive source, and moves the print table 11 in the Z direction.

  The printing table 11 includes a table main body 111, a pair of bracket members 112 provided on the table main body 111, a support plate 114 on which a plurality of backup pins 113 are arranged, and a support plate drive that moves the support plate 114 in the Z direction. Part 115. A conveyor 12 (see FIG. 1) is provided on each upper portion of the pair of bracket members 112. The backup pin 113 is configured to support the substrate B from below when the support plate 114 is moved in the Z1 direction (upward) by the support plate drive unit 115.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pair of conveyors 12 are provided so as to extend along the X direction. The pair of conveyors 12 are arranged in parallel to each other with a predetermined distance in the Y direction. Further, the pair of conveyors 12 is configured to be able to adjust the interval in the Y direction in accordance with the width of the substrate B to be conveyed. Specifically, the pair of conveyors 12 is configured such that the interval (width) in the Y direction is adjusted by the substrate width axis driving unit 12a (see FIG. 5).

  The camera unit 4 is configured to take an image of the mask M and the substrate B as shown in FIGS. Specifically, the camera unit 4 includes a camera X-axis moving mechanism 41, a camera Y-axis moving mechanism 42, and an imaging unit 43 having a substrate camera 43a and a mask camera 43b. The camera X-axis moving mechanism 41 includes an X-axis motor 41a and a ball screw 41b extending in the X direction. The camera Y-axis moving mechanism 42 includes a Y-axis motor 42a and a ball screw 42b extending in the Y direction. The board camera 43a is configured to capture the board B and recognize the relative position of the board B with respect to the print table 11. The mask camera 43b is configured to image the mask M and recognize the position of the mask M.

  As described above, in the printing apparatus 100, after the relative position of the substrate B with respect to the mask M is recognized using the substrate camera 43a and the mask camera 43b, the X-axis moving mechanism, the Y-axis moving mechanism, and the R-axis of the printing table unit 3 are used. The relative position (position and inclination in the horizontal plane) of the substrate B with respect to the mask M is accurately positioned by the moving mechanism. In the printing apparatus 100, the substrate B is raised by the Z-axis moving mechanism of the printing table unit 3 and brought into contact with the lower surface of the mask M in a state where the relative position of the substrate B with respect to the mask M is accurately positioned. Thereby, the plate alignment of the substrate B is performed with respect to the mask M.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the mask clamp member 5 is configured to hold the mask M at the printing position W when solder is printed on the substrate B by the print pattern Pa using the mask M. Specifically, the mask clamp member 5 includes a first mask holding portion 51 that holds an end portion of the mask M on the X1 direction side, and a second mask holding portion 52 that holds an end portion of the mask M on the X2 direction side. And a pressing portion (not shown) that is provided in the first mask holding portion 51 and presses the mask M in the X2 direction side.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the squeegee unit 6 is configured to move the solder supplied onto the upper surface of the mask M while scraping along the upper surface of the mask M by reciprocating in the Y direction. ing. Specifically, the squeegee unit 6 includes a squeegee 61, a squeegee Y-axis drive unit 62 that moves the squeegee 61 in the printing direction (Y direction), and a squeegee Z-axis drive that moves the squeegee 61 in the vertical direction (Z direction). And a squeegee R-axis drive unit 64 (see FIG. 5) that rotates the squeegee 61 around a rotation axis extending in the X direction.

  The squeegee 61 is formed to extend in the X direction. The squeegee 61 is configured to print the solder supplied to the mask M while applying a predetermined printing pressure (load) to the mask M. The squeegee 61 is configured to move along the mask M having the opening P1 to print the solder (coating material) on the mask M on the substrate B through the opening P1. The squeegee Y-axis drive unit 62 includes a Y-axis motor 62a and a ball screw 62b extending in the Y direction. The squeegee Z-axis drive unit 63 includes a Z-axis motor 63a, a belt 63b, and a ball screw 63c extending in the Z direction.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the squeegee unit 6 includes a mask slider 65 that performs an exchange operation for exchanging the mask M by sliding the mask M in the Y direction. The mask slider 65 has a slide portion 65a that can move in the Z direction (vertical direction), and an accommodating portion 65b that accommodates the slide portion 65a. The mask slider 65 is composed of, for example, an air cylinder, the slide portion 65a is composed of an air cylinder rod, and the accommodating portion 65b is composed of an air cylinder. The mask slider 65 is an example of the “mask moving mechanism” in the claims.

  The mask slider 65 is configured to move integrally in the Y direction as the squeegee Y-axis drive unit 62 moves the squeegee 61 in the Y direction. Further, the mask slider 65 is Z2 such that the slide portion 65a protrudes from the housing portion 65b to a position where the slide portion 65a can contact the frame F of the mask M at the printing position W in the horizontal direction (Y direction). Move in the direction (downward). The mask slider 65 is positioned in the Z1 direction so that the slide portion 65a is accommodated in the accommodation portion 65b until the slide portion 65a does not contact the frame F of the mask M at the printing position W in the horizontal direction (Y direction). Move (upward).

  Thus, the squeegee 61 and the mask slider 65 are provided integrally with the squeegee unit 6. Further, the squeegee 61 and the mask slider 65 are integrally moved in the Y direction by the movement of the squeegee unit 6. Then, the slide portion 65a of the mask slider 65 contacts the frame F of the mask M from the Y1 direction or the Y2 direction, and moves the mask M in the Y1 direction or the Y2 direction. That is, the mask slider 65 accommodates the first mask M1 positioned at the printing position W in the mask accommodating portion (second mask accommodating portion 72) and is accommodated in the mask accommodating portion (first mask accommodating portion 71). The second mask M2 is moved to the printing position W.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the mask exchange unit 7 is configured to accommodate a plurality (two) of masks M. Specifically, the mask exchange unit 7 includes a first mask housing part 71, a second mask housing part 72, and an elevating part 73. The mask exchange unit 7 includes a mask slider 65. Each of the first mask accommodating portion 71 and the second mask accommodating portion 72 is configured to accommodate one mask M. The 1st mask accommodating part 71 and the 2nd mask accommodating part 72 are arrange | positioned along with the up-down direction. The first mask housing portion 71 is an upper housing portion disposed above the second mask housing portion 72. The second mask housing portion 72 is a lower housing portion that is disposed below the first mask housing portion 71. The elevating part 73 is configured to move the first mask accommodating part 71 and the second mask accommodating part 72 in the vertical direction. The mask exchange unit 7 has an elevating part 73 attached to the base 2. In the mask exchange unit 7, the second mask housing part 72 is attached to the lifting part 73. In the mask exchange unit 7, the first mask housing portion 71 is attached to the second mask housing portion 72. Accordingly, the first mask housing portion 71 and the second mask housing portion 72 are lifted and lowered integrally with the lifting and lowering by the lifting and lowering portion 73. The first mask housing portion 71 and the second mask housing portion 72 are a lowered position for putting the mask M in and out of the first mask housing portion 71, and an elevated position for putting the mask M in and out of the second mask housing portion 72. It is comprised so that it can move to Z direction (up-down direction) between.

  The first mask accommodating portion 71 is disposed inside the housing 10 that covers the apparatus main body, and is configured to accommodate a second mask M2 that is not used for substrate production.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the detection sensor 8 is configured to detect the mask M in a state straddling the mask clamp member 5 and the mask replacement unit 7. The detection sensor 8 is provided in each of the first mask housing portion 71 and the second mask housing portion 72. Specifically, when the detection sensor 8 provided in the first mask housing portion 71 moves the mask M between the printing position W and the first mask housing portion 71, the mask clamp member 5 and the first mask housing are provided. The mask M stopped in a state of straddling the part 71 is detected. The detection sensor 8 provided in the second mask housing portion 72 straddles the mask clamp member 5 and the second mask housing portion 72 when moving the mask M between the printing position W and the second mask housing portion 72. It is configured to detect the mask M stopped in the state. The detection sensor 8 is, for example, a transmissive sensor, and includes a light projecting unit that emits light and a light receiving unit that receives light emitted from the light projecting unit.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the control device 9 includes a main control unit 9a, a storage unit 9b, a drive control unit 9c, an IO control unit 9d, and a camera control unit 9e. The main control unit 9a includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage unit 9b includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like, and stores substrate data G1, machine data G2, and a printing program. The main control unit 9a has a function of controlling each unit of the printing apparatus 100 based on a printing program stored in the storage unit 9b. Here, the substrate data G1 includes information on the type of the substrate B, information on the size of the substrate B, information on the mask M corresponding to the type of the substrate B, information on the number of printed sheets for each type of the substrate B, and the like. The machine data G2 includes information on the movement limit position of the squeegee unit 6 in the Y direction, information on the movement limit positions of the camera unit 4 in the X direction and the Y direction, and the like.

  The main controller 9a is configured to control the squeegee unit 6 by the drive controller 9c. Specifically, the drive control unit 9c controls the drive of the squeegee Y-axis drive unit 62, the squeegee Z-axis drive unit 63, and the squeegee R-axis drive unit 64, and the squeegee 61 is moved in the Y direction and the Z direction. At the same time, the squeegee 61 is rotated around the rotation axis extending in the X direction.

  The main controller 9a is configured to control the print table unit 3 by the drive controller 9c. Specifically, the main control unit 9a drives the X-axis drive unit 31, the Y-axis drive unit 32, the R-axis drive unit 33, and the Z-axis drive unit 34 by the drive control unit 9c, so that the X direction and the Y direction are driven. The substrate B is moved in the Z direction, and the substrate B is rotated around the rotation axis extending in the Z direction. In addition, the main control unit 9a drives the support plate driving unit 115 by the drive control unit 9c and moves the support plate 114, thereby moving the backup pin 113 in the Z direction (vertical direction). Further, the main control unit 9a drives the substrate width axis driving unit 12a by the drive control unit 9c to adjust the interval (width) of the pair of conveyors 12 in the Y direction. Further, the main control unit 9a drives the substrate transport axis driving unit 15 by the drive control unit 9c to transport the substrate B in the X direction.

  The main controller 9a is configured to control the camera unit 4 by the drive controller 9c. Specifically, the main control unit 9a drives the camera X-axis moving mechanism 41 and the camera Y-axis moving mechanism 42 by the drive control unit 9c, and the imaging unit 43 (substrate camera 43a and mask) in the X and Y directions. The camera 43b) is moved.

  The main controller 9a is configured to control the camera unit 4 by the camera controller 9e. Specifically, the main control unit 9a controls the imaging operation of the substrate B by the substrate camera 43a by the camera control unit 9e. The main controller 9a controls the imaging operation of the mask M by the mask camera 43b by the camera controller 9e.

  Further, the main control unit 9a is configured to control the squeegee unit 6 by the IO control unit 9d. Specifically, the main control unit 9a controls the lifting / lowering operation of the slide unit 65a of the mask slider 65 by the IO control unit 9d.

  The main controller 9a is configured to control the mask exchange unit 7 by the IO controller 9d. Specifically, the main control unit 9a controls the lifting / lowering operations of the first mask housing unit 71 and the second mask housing unit 72 of the mask exchange unit 7 by the lifting unit 73 by the IO control unit 9d. Further, the main control unit 9a performs control for switching between locking and releasing of the cover lock mechanism 74 by the IO control unit 9d. The main control unit 9a receives a detection signal of the detection sensor 8 when the IO control unit 9d detects the mask M stopped in a state of straddling the mask clamp member 5 and the first mask housing unit 71. It is configured. The main control unit 9a is configured to receive a detection signal of the detection sensor 8 when the IO control unit 9d detects the mask M stopped in a state straddling the mask clamp member 5 and the second mask housing unit 72. Has been.

  The main control unit 9a controls the display unit 91 to display an image. Specifically, the main control unit 9a performs control for causing the display unit 91 to display an operation screen, a screen indicating operation status information, a notification screen, a warning screen, and the like. The display unit 91 includes a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, for example. The main control unit 9a is configured to receive an instruction from the operator via the input unit 92. The input unit 92 includes, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch panel.

  Further, the main control unit 9 a is configured to acquire information on the identification information I of the mask M read by the reading unit 93. As shown in FIG. 6, the reading unit 93 is arranged on the Y1 side of the apparatus main body. The reading unit 93 is configured to read the identification information I of the mask M (second mask M2). The reading unit 93 includes, for example, a reading device such as a barcode reader or an RF reader. The identification information I includes unique identification information of the mask M. The identification information I is attached to the mask M.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the printing apparatus 100 is covered with a housing 10. 1 to 3 illustrate the configuration of the printing apparatus 100 with the casing 10 omitted. As shown in FIG. 7, an opening 10 b is provided on the side surface of the housing 10 on the Y1 direction side. The opening 10b is provided in the housing 10 in order to access the mask housing (the first mask housing 71 and the second mask housing 72). The opening 10b is covered with a cover 10a during normal operation. The cover 10a is opened when replacing the mask M of the mask accommodation part (the first mask accommodation part 71 and the second mask accommodation part 72). The cover 10a is configured to be locked in a closed state by a cover lock mechanism 74. The cover lock mechanism 74 is an example of the “lock mechanism” in the claims.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the control device 9 is prepared to be used for the next substrate production after the substrate production using the first mask M1 in a state where the first mask M1 is arranged at the printing position W. Based on the reading result of the identification information I of the second mask M2 by the reading unit 93, it is configured to determine whether or not the second mask M2 is used in the next substrate production. Specifically, when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the control device 9 is configured to notify without stopping the substrate production using the first mask M1. Yes. That is, the control device 9 is configured to control the display unit 91 to display that the second mask M2 is not suitable for use.

  For example, if the second mask M2 is not the correct type of mask M used in the next substrate production, the control device 9 is configured to notify that the second mask M2 is not suitable for the next substrate production. . In this case, the display unit 91 displays that the second mask M2 is not of the correct type and information of the correct type of mask M.

  In addition, when the second mask M2 is the correct type of mask M to be used in the next substrate production, but the second mask M2 is not suitable for the substrate production, the control device 9 is the second mask M2. Is not suitable for the next substrate production. In this case, the display unit 91 displays that the second mask M2 is the correct type but is not suitable for substrate production. The control device 9 is configured to determine the state of the second mask M2 based on at least one of the number of uses, tension, and strain of the second mask M2. That is, when the number of uses is greater than the predetermined number of times, when the tension is smaller than the predetermined value, or when the distortion is large, the control device 9 is in a state where the state of the second mask M2 is not suitable for substrate production. Judge.

  The control device 9 is configured to control the open / close state of the cover 10a based on the reading result of the identification information I of the second mask M2 by the reading unit 93. Specifically, the control device 9 is configured to control the cover 10a not to be opened when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. For example, the control device 9 is configured to lock the cover 10a in a closed state by the cover lock mechanism 74 when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production.

  In addition, the control device 9 does not open the cover 10a when the second mask M2 is suitable for the next substrate production, but the second mask M2 cannot be moved to the printing position W by the mask slider 65. It is configured to control. If the second mask M2 cannot be moved to the printing position W by the mask slider 65, for example, the widths of the first mask M1 and the second mask M2 in the X direction are different, and the width of the transport mechanism is adjusted. If necessary. The second mask M2 is out of a predetermined range and cannot be moved in the Y direction by the mask slider 65.

  In addition, when the second mask M2 is suitable for the next substrate production but the second mask M2 cannot be moved to the printing position W by the mask slider 65, the control device 9 manually controls the first mask M1. And the second mask M2 are notified to be exchanged. In this case, on the display unit 91, the second mask M2 cannot be disposed in the mask storage unit (first mask storage unit 71), and the first mask M1 and the second mask M2 are manually replaced. Notifications are displayed.

  Further, when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the control device 9 moves the second mask M2 accommodated in the mask accommodating portion (first mask accommodating portion 71) by the mask slider 65. Control is made so as not to move the printing position W. For example, when the schedule for substrate production is changed and the second mask M2 disposed in the first mask accommodating portion 71 is no longer the correct type of mask M, the second mask M2 moves to the printing position W. Not. In this case, the display unit 91 displays that the second mask M2 is not of the correct type and information on the correct type of mask M.

  The control device 9 acquires information on the next board production based on the reservation and the list. For example, during the current substrate production, the next and subsequent substrate production (substrate type) is reserved. As a reservation method, a reservation is made directly from the printing apparatus 100, or a reservation is made in advance in a list form from a production plan.

  When making a reservation for board production by designation, as shown in FIG. 8, a reservation is made by selecting from the types of displayed boards. In the case of making a reservation by using a list, a table in which the production order is listed is acquired from an external device based on the production plan and reserved. In the production plan list, as shown in FIG. 9, the order, the type, the surface (front and back), the program name, and the production number are stored.

  In addition, the control device 9 holds a list of mask information as shown in FIG. 10 as a substrate production program. That is, if the type of substrate production is determined, the type of mask M to be used is specified. For the mask M, a plurality of masks of the same type may be prepared in preparation for production on a plurality of lines or due to a difference in version. Therefore, mask ID information for identifying each unique mask M is stored in the mask information list. In the list of mask information, the number of uses, tension (amount of deformation when a predetermined force is applied), size, and reference coordinate position are stored in association with each mask. The number of times of use may be updated every time one sheet is printed, or may be updated when the mask M is replaced after a series of substrate production. The tension may be automatically updated by providing a tension meter in the printing apparatus 100, or may be measured and updated offline.

(Mask exchange)
With reference to FIG. 11, the exchange of the mask M by the mask slider 65 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, the mask exchange unit 7 is raised. As a result, the height position of the second mask accommodating portion 72 and the height position of the mask M used at the printing position W are substantially the same position. Then, the mask M at the printing position W is moved in the Y1 direction by the mask slider 65. In this case, the frame F of the mask M is pressed in the Y1 direction, and the mask M is moved toward the second mask housing portion 72.

  When the mask M is accommodated in the second mask accommodating portion 72, the mask exchange unit 7 is lowered as shown in FIG. Thereby, the height position of the 1st mask accommodating part 71 and the height position of the printing position W become a substantially the same position.

  When the mask exchange unit 7 is lowered, the mask M accommodated in the first mask accommodating portion 71 is moved in the Y2 direction by the mask slider 65 as shown in FIG. 11C. In this case, the frame F of the mask M is pressed in the Y2 direction, and the mask M is moved toward the printing position W. When the mask M is pulled out from the first mask accommodating portion 71, the mask replacement unit 7 is raised and the replacement of the mask M is completed.

(Print operation processing)
With reference to FIG. 12, the printing operation process by the control device 9 will be described.

  In step S1 of FIG. 12, production (printing) of the A substrate is performed. In addition, the description of A board | substrate is a description for distinguishing a B board | substrate produced later and a kind. In step S2, it is determined whether or not production of the production number by the program has been completed. If production is not completed, the process returns to step S1, and if production is completed, the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, it is determined whether or not the presetting of the mask M for the B substrate has been completed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a mask M suitable for use in the next substrate production is set in the mask housing section (first mask housing section 71). If the mask M for the B substrate is preset, the process proceeds to step S4. If the mask M for the B substrate is not preset, the printing operation process is terminated. In step S4, the mask M for the A substrate and the mask M for the B substrate are automatically exchanged. Specifically, the mask M is moved by the mask slider 65 and the mask is exchanged.

(Preparation process for next board production (printing))
With reference to FIG. 13, the preparation process of the next board | substrate production (printing) by the control apparatus 9 is demonstrated. The preparation process for the next substrate production (printing) is performed in parallel with steps S1 to S2 of the printing operation process of FIG.

  In step S11, it is determined whether or not the B board to be produced (printed) next is designated (reserved). The determination in step S11 is repeated until the next B substrate to be produced is designated. When the B substrate to be produced is designated next, the process proceeds to step S12, and information on the mask M for B substrate production (printing) is acquired. Specifically, information on the mask M is acquired based on the list of mask information shown in FIG.

  In step S13, it is determined whether the ID (identification information I) of the prepared mask M has been scanned. The determination in step S13 is repeated until the ID of the prepared mask M is scanned. When the ID of the prepared mask M is scanned, it is determined whether or not the prepared mask M is the correct type of mask M in step S14. If it is the correct type of mask M, the process proceeds to step S16, and if it is an incorrect type of mask M, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, notification is given to replace the mask M with the correct type. Specifically, an error notification is displayed on the display unit 91. In addition, the display unit 91 is notified of the type of the prepared mask M and the correct type of the mask M. Thereafter, the process returns to step S13. In step S16, it is determined whether or not the prepared mask M is a mask M in a state suitable for substrate production. If the mask M is in a state suitable for substrate production, the process proceeds to step S20. If the mask M is not suitable for substrate production, the process proceeds to step S17.

  In step S17, it is notified that the mask M is not suitable for use. Specifically, an error notification is displayed on the display unit 91. In step S18, it is determined whether or not use has been selected. Specifically, the operator can choose to use the prepared mask M when he thinks that there is no problem with the quality of the substrate to be produced even if it is not optimal for use. If use is selected, the process proceeds to step S20, and if use is not selected, the process proceeds to step S19. In step S19, notification is given to replace the mask M in a suitable state. Specifically, an error notification is displayed on the display unit 91. Further, the mask ID information of the mask M in a suitable state is notified to the display unit 91. Thereafter, the process returns to step S13.

  In step S20, it is determined whether or not the mask M is suitable for automatic replacement. If the mask M is suitable for automatic replacement, the process proceeds to step S21. If the mask M is not suitable for automatic replacement, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S21, the lock of the cover 10a is released. As a result, the cover 10a can be opened, and the mask M can be set (preset) in the mask housing portion (first mask housing portion 71). Thereafter, the preparation process for the next substrate production (printing) is completed.

  In step S22, it is notified that the mask M cannot be automatically replaced. Specifically, an error notification is displayed on the display unit 91. Thereafter, the preparation process for the next substrate production (printing) is completed.

(Effect of embodiment)
In the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, in the state where the first mask M1 is arranged at the printing position W, the second mask prepared for use in the next substrate production after the substrate production using the first mask M1. A control device 9 is provided for determining whether or not the second mask M2 is used in the next substrate production based on the result of reading the identification information I of M2 by the reading unit 93. Thus, it is possible to know whether or not the second mask M2 prepared for use in the next substrate production is suitable for use during the production of the substrate using the first mask M1. As a result, even if the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, if the first mask M1 is replaced with a suitable mask M during the substrate production using the first mask M1, the first mask M1 is used. Subsequent to the production (printing) of the substrate, the next substrate production (printing) using the second mask M2 can be performed. Thereby, it can suppress that the efficiency of board | substrate production falls because the mask M suitable for the next board | substrate production is not prepared. Further, as long as the substrate production using the first mask M1 is being performed, the operator only has to replace the second mask M2 with a suitable mask M at an arbitrary time. The replacement work can be performed at a certain time. As a result, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of the operator's replacement work.

  Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the control device 9 is notified without stopping the production of the substrate using the first mask M1. Configure to do. Thereby, it is possible to continue the production of the substrate using the first mask M1 while prompting the operator to re-prepare the mask M used for the next substrate production, thereby effectively suppressing the reduction in the efficiency of the substrate production. can do.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, if the second mask M2 is not the correct type of mask M to be used in the next substrate production, the second mask M2 is not suitable for the next substrate production. To be notified. As a result, it is possible to effectively promote replacement with the correct type of mask M. Therefore, by replacing the mask with the correct mask M by the end of the production of the substrate using the first mask M1, the substrate production (printing) is continued. It can be performed.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, although the control device 9 uses the second mask M2 as the correct type of mask M used in the next substrate production, the state of the second mask M2 is suitable for substrate production. If not, the second mask M2 is configured to notify that it is not suitable for the next substrate production. Accordingly, when there are a plurality of masks M of the same type, it is possible to prompt the user to use a mask M that is more suitable for substrate production (printing), so that the accuracy of substrate production (printing) can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 is configured to determine the state of the second mask M2 based on at least one of the number of uses, tension, and distortion of the second mask M2. . Accordingly, the second mask M2 is suitable for substrate production (printing) when the second mask M2 is used frequently, when the tension of the second mask M2 is small, or when the distortion of the second mask M2 is large. Since it can be determined that there is not, it is possible to promote replacement with a mask M that is more suitable for substrate production according to the state of the mask M.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 is configured to control the opening / closing state of the cover 10a based on the reading result of the identification information I of the second mask M2 by the reading unit 93. Accordingly, the opening of the cover 10a can be restricted based on the suitability of the substrate production (printing) of the second mask M2, so that the first mask accommodating portion 71 can be determined according to the suitability of the substrate production of the second mask M2. In addition, access to the second mask housing portion 72 can be restricted.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 is configured to control the cover 10a not to be opened when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. Thereby, it can suppress that the 2nd mask M2 unsuitable for the next board | substrate production is accommodated in the 1st mask accommodating part 71 accidentally through the opening part 10b by which the cover 10a was open | released.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 is configured to lock the cover 10a in the closed state by the cover lock mechanism 74 when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. To do. As a result, when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the cover 10a cannot be opened. Therefore, the second mask M2 unsuitable for the next substrate production becomes the first mask accommodating portion 71. Can be effectively prevented from being stored in the camera.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 moves the second mask M2 to the printing position W by the mask slider 65 although the second mask M2 is suitable for the next substrate production. If the cover 10a cannot be opened, the cover 10a is controlled not to be opened. Thereby, for example, when the size of the first mask M1 and the second mask M2 are different, and the second mask M2 cannot be automatically moved from the first mask accommodating portion 71 to the printing position W, Since it is possible to prevent the second mask M2 from being disposed in the first mask housing portion 71, it is possible to prevent the operator from performing unnecessary setup work.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 moves the second mask M2 to the printing position W by the mask slider 65 although the second mask M2 is suitable for the next substrate production. If the first mask M1 and the second mask M2 are manually exchanged, the notification is made. Accordingly, when the first mask M1 and the second mask M2 cannot be automatically replaced, it is possible to prompt the operator to manually replace the first mask M1 and the second mask M2, so that during the production of the substrate using the first mask M1. Thus, it can be grasped in advance that the operator needs to change the setup to the second mask M2 later.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control device 9 is accommodated in the first mask accommodating portion 71 by the mask slider 65 when the second mask M2 is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. The second mask M2 is controlled so as not to move to the printing position W. Accordingly, even when the second mask M2 that is not suitable for the next substrate production (printing) is accommodated in the first mask accommodating portion 71, the second mask M2 is not moved to the printing position W. When placing M, it is not necessary to remove the unsuitable mask M. As a result, it is possible to prevent the worker from performing useless setup work.

(Modification)
The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the embodiment but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes all modifications (modifications) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the operator reads the identification information of the second mask prepared for use in the substrate production following the substrate production using the first mask by operating the reading unit. Although shown, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the identification information may be automatically read by a printing apparatus. For example, the identification information may be automatically read when the second mask is arranged in the mask accommodating portion. In this case, the identification information may be photographed and read by the camera unit.

  Moreover, although the example which comprised the mask accommodating part so that two masks can be accommodated was shown in the said embodiment, this invention is not limited to this. In this invention, you may comprise a mask accommodating part so that one or three or more masks can be accommodated.

  Moreover, although the example which uses solder as a coating material was shown in the said embodiment, this invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, a material other than solder may be used as the coating material.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the example of the structure which locks the cover which covers the opening part of a housing | casing in a closed state with a locking mechanism was shown, this invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, as a configuration for automatically opening and closing the cover, when the second mask is suitable for the next substrate production, the cover may be opened. In this case, the cover may be configured by a shutter.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the example of the structure which notifies by the display of a display part was shown, this invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, notification may be made by voice or by an external terminal.

  Moreover, although the example of the structure provided with one lane which conveys a board | substrate was shown in the said embodiment, this invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, a plurality of lanes for transporting the substrate may be provided.

  In the above embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the processing operation of the control device (control unit) has been described using a flow-driven flowchart that performs processing in order along the processing flow. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. In the present invention, the processing operation of the control unit may be performed by event-driven (event-driven) processing that executes processing in units of events. In this case, it may be performed by a complete event drive type or a combination of event drive and flow drive.

7 Mask exchange unit 9 Control device (control unit)
10 Housing 10a Cover 10b Opening 51 Squeegee 65 Mask Slider (Mask Moving Mechanism)
71 1st mask accommodating part (mask accommodating part)
72 2nd mask accommodating part (mask accommodating part)
74 Cover lock mechanism (lock mechanism)
93 Reading unit 100 Printing apparatus B Substrate I Identification information M Mask M1 First mask M2 Second mask P1 Opening W Printing position

Claims (12)

A squeegee that moves along a mask having an opening and prints the coating material on the mask on the substrate through the opening;
A reading unit for reading the identification information of the mask;
Based on the reading result by the reading unit of the identification information of the second mask prepared for use in the next substrate production after the substrate production using the first mask in a state where the first mask is arranged at the printing position. And a control unit that determines whether or not the second mask is used in the next substrate production.   The said control part is comprised so that notification may be performed, without stopping the board | substrate production using a said 1st mask, when the said 2nd mask is not suitable for use in the said next board | substrate production. The printing apparatus according to 1.   The control unit is configured to notify that the second mask is not suitable for the next substrate production when the second mask is not the correct type of the mask used in the next substrate production. The printing apparatus according to claim 2.   When the second mask is a correct type of the mask used in the next substrate production, but the second mask is not suitable for substrate production, the second mask is The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the printing apparatus is configured to notify that it is not suitable for the next substrate production.   5. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the control unit is configured to determine a state of the second mask based on at least one of a use count, a tension, and a strain of the second mask. A mask housing portion that is disposed inside a housing that covers the apparatus main body and that accommodates the second mask that is not used for substrate production;
A cover that covers the opening of the housing provided to access the mask housing portion;
The said control part is comprised so that the opening / closing state of the said cover may be controlled based on the reading result of the identification information of the said 2nd mask by the said reading part. The printing apparatus as described.   The printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the control unit is configured to control not to open the cover when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. A lock mechanism for locking the cover in a closed state;
The printing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control unit is configured to lock the cover in a closed state by the lock mechanism when the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production. . A mask moving mechanism for accommodating the first mask positioned at a printing position in the mask accommodating portion and moving the second mask accommodated in the mask accommodating portion to a printing position;
The control unit performs control so that the cover is not opened when the second mask is suitable for the next substrate production but the second mask cannot be moved to the printing position by the mask moving mechanism. The printing apparatus according to claim 6, configured as described above.   When the second mask is suitable for the next substrate production, but the second mask cannot be moved to the printing position by the mask moving mechanism, the control unit manually moves the first mask and the first mask. The printing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the printing apparatus is configured to notify to replace the two masks. A mask accommodating portion that accommodates the second mask that is not used for substrate production, and the second mask accommodated in the mask accommodating portion while accommodating the first mask positioned at a printing position in the mask accommodating portion. A mask changing unit including a mask moving mechanism for moving the mask to a printing position,
When the second mask is not suitable for use in the next substrate production, the controller controls the mask moving mechanism so as not to move the second mask accommodated in the mask accommodating portion to a printing position. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, configured as described above. A method of using a printing apparatus for printing a coating material on a mask having an opening on a substrate through the opening,
Read the identification information of the mask,
Based on the reading result of the identification information of the second mask prepared for use in the next substrate production of the substrate production using the first mask in the state where the first mask is arranged at the printing position, A method of using a printing apparatus for determining whether or not the second mask is used in the production of a substrate.

Images