JP2021176161A - Transfer method and transport management device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a transfer method capable of improving the efficiency of transportation work.SOLUTION: The transfer method to transfer a magazine 60 from an unloader 40a to a loader 30b includes the steps of: acquiring unloader information on the storage status of circuit boards 1 in the unloader 40a and loader information on the taking-out status of circuit boards 1 out of the loader 30b (step S1); and determining whether or not to transfer at least one magazine 60 each storing multiple circuit boards 1 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b based on the unloader information and the loader information (step S2).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

The present disclosure relates to a transport method and a transport management device for a magazine containing a plurality of substrates.

Conventionally, a substrate storage device and a substrate supply device have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This board storage device receives, for example, a plurality of boards on which components are mounted by an electronic component mounting device in order from the electronic component mounting device and stores them in a magazine. Then, when the magazine is filled with a plurality of boards, the board storage device stores the boards in the next empty magazine. The board storage device repeatedly stores the board in such a magazine. On the other hand, the substrate supply device sequentially takes out each of the plurality of substrates from a magazine filled with the plurality of substrates, and supplies the substrates to, for example, another electronic component mounting apparatus. Then, when the magazine becomes empty, the board supply device takes out the board from the next full magazine. The substrate supply device repeatedly takes out the substrate from such a magazine.

Here, each of the board storage device and the board supply device outputs a warning signal when the number of boards stored in the magazine reaches a predetermined number. For example, the board storage device outputs a full warning signal when the number of boards reaches a predetermined number and the magazine approaches a full state when the boards are sequentially stored in the magazine. The board supply device outputs an empty warning signal when the number of boards reaches a predetermined number and the magazine approaches an empty state when the boards are sequentially taken out from the magazine. The output of such a full warning signal allows an empty magazine to be transported to the board storage device before the magazine is full, and the output of the empty warning signal allows the magazine to be full before it becomes empty. Can be transported to the substrate supply device. As a result, it is possible to suppress the suspension of the mounting work of the electronic component mounting device.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 4-364097

However, the method of transporting a magazine using the substrate storage device and the substrate supply device of Patent Document 1 has a problem that the efficiency of the magazine transport operation is insufficient.

Therefore, the present disclosure provides a transport method and the like that can improve the efficiency of the transport work.

The transport method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a transport method in which a magazine is transported from an unloader to a loader, and the unloader sequentially acquires each of a plurality of substrates from the first apparatus for each of the plurality of magazines. Then, the loader takes out each of the plurality of substrates in order from the magazine in which the plurality of substrates are stored and sends them out to the second apparatus. Unloader information regarding the storage status of the board in the loader and loader information regarding the removal status of the board in the loader are acquired, and (b) the plurality of boards are stored based on the unloader information and the loader information. Determine if at least one magazine needs to be transported from the unloader to the loader.

It should be noted that these comprehensive or specific embodiments may be realized in a recording medium such as a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program or computer-readable CD-ROM, and the system, method, integrated circuit, computer program. And may be realized by any combination of recording media. Further, the recording medium may be a non-temporary recording medium.

The transport method of the present disclosure can improve the efficiency of the transport work.

Further advantages and effects in one aspect of the present disclosure will be apparent from the specification and drawings. Such advantages and / or effects are provided by some embodiments and features described in the specification and drawings, respectively, but not all need to be provided in order to obtain one or more identical features. There is no.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a transport system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the magazine according to the embodiment. FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a state in which the substrate is housed in the magazine according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a magazine to be conveyed according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an unloader mechanism in the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the mechanism of the loader in the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing each functional configuration of the unloader, the loader, and the transport management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the information storage unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a schematic processing operation of the transport management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a detailed processing operation of the transport management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a more detailed processing operation of the transport management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the transport management device according to the first modification of the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing work type information in the second modification of the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the transport management device according to the second modification of the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a transport system according to the third modification of the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the transport management device according to the third modification of the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the transport management device according to the fourth modification of the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a simulation result of a production time according to a production number of mounting substrates and a staying number of substrates of the embodiment.

The transport method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a transport method in which a magazine is transported from an unloader to a loader, and the unloader sequentially acquires each of a plurality of substrates from the first apparatus for each of the plurality of magazines. Then, the loader takes out each of the plurality of substrates in order from the magazine in which the plurality of substrates are stored and sends them out to the second apparatus. Unloader information regarding the storage status of the board in the loader and loader information regarding the removal status of the board in the loader are acquired, and (b) the plurality of boards are stored based on the unloader information and the loader information. Determine if at least one magazine needs to be transported from the unloader to the loader.

As a result, it is determined whether or not the magazine needs to be transported based on the storage status of the substrate by the unloader and the removal status of the substrate by the loader, so that the efficiency of the transport work can be improved. That is, in the above patent document, it is determined whether or not the magazine needs to be transported based on the situation of only one of the unloader and the loader. However, in the transport method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the unloader and the loader are used. Judgment is based on both situations. Therefore, since there is no substrate used for each work of the first device and the second device, it is possible to prevent the work from being stopped, and the production time required for producing a plurality of mounting boards by the work can be reduced. It can be shortened. Further, it is possible to reduce the number of times that at least one magazine containing a plurality of substrates is transported from the unloader to the loader. As a result, the efficiency of the transport work can be improved.

For example, the transport method further directs (c) the first instruction to transport the at least one magazine from the unloader to the loader when it is determined in (b) that it is necessary to transport. The signal may be output to the third device.

As a result, for example, when the third device is a display device, the content of the first instruction signal is displayed on the display device. Therefore, the operator who operates the first device and the second device can transport at least one magazine to the loader at an appropriate timing according to the contents displayed on the display device. Further, when the third device is a magazine transfer robot, at least one magazine can be automatically transferred to the loader at an appropriate timing.

Further, the unloader information includes first magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the first magazine handled by the unloader and second magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the second magazine handled next by the unloader. The loader information includes the third magazine information regarding the removal status of the substrate in the third magazine handled by the loader, and in the above (a), further, the first regarding the working time for the substrate in the first apparatus. The work information, the second work information regarding the work time for the substrate in the second apparatus, and the transport information regarding the transport time required for transporting the magazine from the unloader to the loader are acquired. Based on the first magazine information, the second magazine information, the third magazine information, the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information, at least the first magazine is released from the unloader at a predetermined time. When it is determined whether or not it is necessary to transport the first magazine to the loader, and in the case (c), when it is determined in the (b) that at least the first magazine does not need to be transported to the loader, the predetermined time is started. At a later timing, at least the first magazine and the second magazine may be collectively output to the third apparatus with a second instruction signal instructing the unloader to transport the second magazine to the loader.

Thereby, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not it is necessary to transport at least the first magazine to the loader at a predetermined time based on various information. Further, when it is determined that it is not necessary to carry the magazine, a second instruction signal instructing the first magazine and the second magazine to be carried together is output at a timing after the predetermined time. .. Therefore, it is possible to save the trouble of transporting only the first magazine at a predetermined time, and it is possible to improve the efficiency of the transport work.

Further, the first magazine information includes information regarding the first magazine full time, which is the time when the first magazine is filled by the plurality of substrates, and the predetermined time is the first magazine full time, and the first magazine information. The 2 magazine information includes the number of boards information regarding the number of boards stored in the 2nd magazine, and the 3rd magazine information includes the number of boards information regarding the number of boards remaining in the 3rd magazine. In (b), the second magazine full time, which is the time when the second magazine is filled by the plurality of substrates, is calculated based on the number of substrates information and the first work information of the second magazine. Based on the second magazine full time and the transport time, the arrival time at which the second magazine filled with the plurality of substrates arrives at the loader is calculated, and the substrate number information of the third magazine and the second magazine are calculated. Based on the work information, the third magazine empty time at which the number of boards remaining in the third magazine becomes 0 is calculated, and whether the third magazine empty time is earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine. Is determined at the predetermined time to determine at least whether the first magazine needs to be transported from the unloader to the loader at the predetermined time. When it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the second instruction signal may be output to the third device at a timing after the predetermined time. ..

As a result, the transportation is determined at the time when the first magazine of the unloader is full. In this judgment, after the unloader's next second magazine is full, if the full first and second magazines are transported to the loader at once, before those magazines arrive at the loader. , It is determined whether or not the loader's third magazine is empty. Then, when it is determined that the third magazine will not be emptied, the second instruction signal is output at a timing later than the predetermined time which is the full time of the first magazine. That is, it is instructed to collectively convey the first magazine and the second magazine. Therefore, the first magazine and the second magazine can be efficiently transported to the loader without stopping the work of the second device using the loader.

Further, in the above (b), when it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the plurality of substrates respectively mounted on the unloader are further mounted. It is determined whether the number of at least one magazine including the first magazine filled with the above is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. If it is determined that there is, the first instruction signal instructing the at least one magazine to be conveyed from the unloader to the loader may be output to the third device.

As a result, the number of magazines full of unloaders can be increased even in a situation where the first magazine and the second magazine can be collectively conveyed without stopping the work of the second device using the loader. If the number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the first magazine is conveyed to the loader. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the unloader from overflowing a full magazine.

Further, in the above (c), when it is determined in the above (b) that the number of the at least one magazine is not equal to or more than the predetermined number, the second instruction signal is transmitted at a timing after the predetermined time. 3 It may be output to the device.

As a result, when the number of magazines full in the unloader is less than a predetermined number, the magazines full in the unloader do not overflow, so that the second instruction signal can be output appropriately. That is, the unloader does not overflow the full magazine, waits for the next second magazine to fill up in the unloader, and then transports the full first magazine and the second magazine to the loader at once. be able to.

Further, in the above (b), when it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the plurality of substrates respectively mounted on the unloader are further mounted. It is determined whether the number of at least one magazine including the first magazine filled with the above is equal to or more than a predetermined number, and the transport method further comprises (d) the number of the at least one magazine in the above (b). When it is determined that the number is equal to or more than a predetermined number, work type information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of operations including the magazine transport operation is acquired, and (e) based on the priority of each of the plurality of operations. It is determined whether there is a high priority work which is a work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work, and (f) when it is determined in the above (e) that there is the high priority work, the high priority work is performed. You may output the information about the instruction of the implementation of.

As a result, even if the number of magazines filled with the unloader is more than a predetermined number, when there is a high priority work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work, the high priority work is performed more than the magazine transport work. Priority is given to instructions. For example, if there is sufficient time for the second magazine to fill up and there is a high priority work before the second magazine is full, the implementation of the high priority work is prioritized. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the efficiency of other work from being reduced in order to improve the efficiency of the transport work.

Further, the transport method further transports at least one magazine including the first magazine from the unloader to the loader when it is determined in (g) that the high priority work is not performed in (e). The first instruction signal may be output to the third device.

As a result, when there is no high priority work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work, the magazine transport work is given priority and instructed. That is, at least the transfer to the loader of the first magazine is instructed. For example, if there is not enough time for the second magazine to fill up, the magazine transfer operation has the highest priority. In such a case, the first magazine is conveyed to the loader without waiting for the second magazine to fill up. As a result, it is possible to prevent the unloader from overflowing with a full magazine.

Further, in the transfer method, when it is determined in (g) the (e) that the high priority work is not performed, the magazine filled with the plurality of substrates mounted on the unloader is used. , Determine whether it can be mounted on the loader, and (h) If it is determined in (g) above that the magazine cannot be mounted, a third instruction signal instructing the magazine to be transported to the temporary storage location is sent. It may be output to the third device.

As a result, if a full magazine cannot be placed on the loader, the magazine can be transported to a temporary storage location.

Further, in the transport method, when it is determined in (i) the above (g) that the magazine can be placed, the third apparatus sends a fourth instruction signal instructing the magazine to be conveyed to the loader. It may be output to.

As a result, even if a full magazine is transported to the loader, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the magazine not being able to be placed on the loader.

Further, the transport method further provides transport request information for requesting transport of the magazine containing the plurality of substrates to the loader when it is determined in (j) that it is not necessary to transport in the (b). When it is determined whether or not the information has been acquired and it is determined in (k) that the transport request information has been acquired in (j), the first instruction signal may be output to the third device.

As a result, when the transport request information is acquired, for example, a full magazine can be transported to the loader, and the degree of freedom of transport can be increased.

Further, the transport method is further based on (l) the number of mounting boards produced by the work of the first device and the second device, in which one or more components are mounted on the board, and the predetermined number. May be determined. For example, in the above (l), the predetermined number may be determined to be a smaller number as the number of the mounting substrates produced is smaller.

As a result, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the transfer work while shortening the production time of the plurality of mounting boards produced by the work of the first device and the second device.

Further, the transport method further includes (m) the unloader based on the number of mounting boards produced by the work of the first device and the second device, in which one or more components are mounted on the board. The number of substrates to be stored in the magazine may be determined by. For example, in (m), the number of substrates stored in the magazine by the unloader may be determined to be smaller as the number of mounted substrates produced is smaller.

As a result, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the transfer work while shortening the production time of the plurality of mounting boards produced by the work of the first device and the second device.

It should be noted that these comprehensive or specific embodiments may be realized in a recording medium such as a system, method, integrated circuit, computer program or computer-readable CD-ROM, and the system, method, integrated circuit, computer program. Alternatively, it may be realized by any combination of recording media. Further, the recording medium may be a non-temporary recording medium.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

It should be noted that all of the embodiments described below show comprehensive or specific examples. Numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of components, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are examples, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Further, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims indicating the highest level concept are described as arbitrary components.

Further, each figure is a schematic view and is not necessarily exactly illustrated. Further, in each figure, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals. Further, in the following embodiments, expressions such as substantially parallel are used. For example, substantially parallel not only means that they are perfectly parallel, but also that they are substantially parallel, that is, they include an error of, for example, about several percent. Further, substantially parallel means parallel to the extent that the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved. The same applies to expressions using other "abbreviations".

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a transport system according to an embodiment.

The transport system 100 according to the present embodiment includes a transport management device 10, a display device 20, loaders 30a and 30b, unloaders 40a and 40b, a transport device 50, a plurality of magazines 60, and a first component mounting device. A 91 and a second component mounting device 92 are provided.

The transport management device 10 manages the transport of the magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. Further, the transport management device 10 communicates with the loaders 30a and 30b, the unloaders 40a and 40b, the first component mounting device 91, and the second component mounting device 92 wirelessly or by wire. The radio may be Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, ZigBee, or a specified low power radio.

The display device 20 is connected to the transport management device 10 and displays an image, characters, or the like according to the control by the transport management device 10. For example, the display device 20 is a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

The first component mounting device 91 performs mounting work for mounting components on the substrate supplied from the loader 30a, and carries out the board on which the components are mounted to the unloader 40a. For example, the first component mounting device 91 performs mounting work on one of the two surfaces of the substrate. The first component mounting device 91 in this embodiment is an example of the first device.

The second component mounting device 92 performs mounting work for mounting components on the substrate supplied from the loader 30b, and carries out the board on which the components are mounted to the unloader 40b. For example, the second component mounting device 92 performs mounting work on the other of the two surfaces of the substrate. The second component mounting device 92 in this embodiment is an example of the second device.

By such mounting work by the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92, the components are mounted on both sides of the substrate, and as a result, the mounting board is produced.

The loader 30a is loaded with one or more magazines 60, each filled with a plurality of substrates. Then, the loader 30a sequentially takes out each of the plurality of boards stored in the one magazine 60 from one of the one or more magazines 60, and takes out the taken out boards as the first component mounting device. Supply to 91. Then, when the magazine 60 is emptied, the loader 30a takes out each of the plurality of boards in order from the next magazine 60 of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60, and puts the taken out boards into the first component mounting device 91. Supply.

The loader 30b also has the same function as the loader 30a, but supplies the substrate to the second component mounting device 92 instead of the first component mounting device 91. That is, one or more magazines 60, each filled with a plurality of substrates, are placed on the loader 30b. Then, the loader 30b sequentially takes out each of the plurality of boards stored in the one or more magazines 60 from one of the one or more magazines 60, and takes out the taken out boards as a second component mounting device. Supply to 92. Then, when the magazine 60 is emptied, the loader 30b takes out each of the plurality of boards in order from the next magazine 60 of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60, and puts the taken out boards into the second component mounting device 92. Supply.

Each of the unloaders 40a has one or more magazines 60 in an empty state. Then, each time the board is carried out from the first component mounting device 91, the unloader 40a stores the board in one of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60. Then, when the magazine 60 is filled with a plurality of boards, the unloader 40a stores the boards carried out from the first component mounting device 91 in the next magazine 60 of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60.

The unloader 40b also has the same function as the unloader 40a, but stores the substrate carried out from the second component mounting device 92 instead of the first component mounting device 91 in the magazine 60. That is, one or more magazines 60 in an empty state are placed on the unloader 40b, respectively. Then, each time the board is carried out from the second component mounting device 92, the unloader 40b stores the board in one of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60. Then, when the magazine 60 is filled with a plurality of substrates, the unloader 40b stores the substrate carried out from the second component mounting device 92 in the next magazine 60 of the above-mentioned one or more magazines 60.

The transport device 50 is a carriage that transports a plurality of magazines 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. The transport device 50 has a mounting table, and a plurality of magazines 60 are mounted on the mounting table. Further, the transfer device 50 in the present embodiment conveys the plurality of magazines 60 by being pushed by the operator of the transfer system 100. The transfer device 50 may be a self-propelled transfer robot.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the magazine 60. FIG. 2B is a diagram showing a state in which the substrate is housed in the magazine 60. In the present disclosure, the vertical direction is referred to as the Z-axis direction or the vertical direction, one direction on the plane perpendicular to the vertical direction is referred to as the Y-axis direction or the depth direction, and the vertical plane is perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. The direction is referred to as the X-axis direction, the left-right direction, or the lateral direction. Further, in the present disclosure, the positive side in the Z-axis direction is upward or upward, and the negative side in the Z-axis direction is downward or downward. Further, in the present disclosure, the positive side in the Y-axis direction is the back side or the back side, and the negative side in the Y-axis direction is the front side or the front side. Further, in the present disclosure, the positive side in the X-axis direction is the right side or the right side, and the negative side in the X-axis direction is the left side or the left side.

The magazine 60 includes a top plate 61, a bottom plate 62, a first side plate 63a, a second side plate 63b, and two columns 64.

The upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62 each have a substantially rectangular plate shape, and are arranged so as to face each other in the Z-axis direction.

The first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b each have a substantially rectangular plate shape, and are arranged so as to face each other in the X-axis direction. Further, a plurality of grooves 65 along the Y-axis direction are formed on the opposing surfaces of the first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b. The plurality of grooves 65 are arranged in the Z-axis direction. The first side plate 63a is arranged between the upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62, and is fixed to the upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62. The second side plate 63b is arranged between the upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62, and is slidably attached to each of the upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62 in the X-axis direction.

The two columns 64 are arranged so as to face the first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b in the X-axis direction, and are fixed so as to be sandwiched between the upper plate 61 and the bottom plate 62.

As shown in FIG. 2B, a plurality of substrates 1 are housed in the magazine 60. Here, when the substrate 1 is stored in the magazine 60, the second side plate 63b is slid in advance along the X-axis direction, and the distance between the first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b is the width of the substrate 1. Is adjusted to.

Then, the unloader 40a makes the substrate 1 substantially parallel to the XY plane, and inserts the substrate 1 between the first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b. As a result, the substrate 1 is housed in the magazine 60. At this time, both edges of the substrate 1 in the X-axis direction are fitted into the grooves 65 of the first side plate 63a and the second side plate 63b, respectively. Therefore, when the plurality of substrates 1 are housed in the magazine 60, each of the plurality of substrates 1 is stacked in the Z-axis direction with a distance of the pitch intervals of the grooves 65 adjacent to each other in the Z-axis direction. Further, the loader 30b takes out the substrate 1 from the magazine 60 shown in FIG. 2B. At this time, the loader 30b slides the substrate 1 in the Y-axis direction and takes out the substrate 1 from the magazine 60.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a magazine 60 to be conveyed.

As described above, the transport device 50 has a mounting table on which a plurality of magazines 60 can be mounted. Therefore, the transport device 50 can collectively transport a plurality of magazines 60 filled with the plurality of substrates 1 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. Here, the maximum number of magazines 60 collectively transported by the transport device 50 may be 3. The maximum number is not limited to 3, and any number may be used as long as it is 2 or more.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the mechanism of the unloader 40a.

The unloader 40a sequentially acquires each of the plurality of substrates 1 from the first component mounting device 91 for each of the plurality of magazines 60 and stores them in the magazine 60. Such an unloader 40a includes an elevating device 41, a carry-out conveyor 44, and a carry-in conveyor 45.

The carry-in conveyor 45 is configured so that the empty magazines 60 can be placed on the carry-in conveyor 45 in a state where a plurality of empty magazines 60 are arranged along the X-axis direction. The carry-in conveyor 45 moves the empty magazine 60 mounted on the elevating device 41 toward the elevating device 41 and delivers it to the elevating device 41. The maximum number of magazines 60 mounted on the carry-in conveyor 45 is, for example, 3. However, the maximum number is not limited to 3, and may be any number as long as it is 2 or more.

The elevating device 41 includes a delivery conveyor 43 and a lifter 42. The lifter 42 raises and lowers the delivery conveyor 43. The lifter 42 raises the delivery conveyor 43 to the height of the carry-in conveyor 45 (hereinafter referred to as the carry-in height). At this time, the delivery conveyor 43 receives the empty magazine 60 from the carry-in conveyor 45, and moves the empty magazine 60 to the first component mounting device 91 side. Then, the lifter 42 rises or falls to a predetermined first reference height. Next, when the substrate 1 carried out from the first component mounting device 91 is housed in the magazine 60 on the delivery conveyor 43, the lifter 42 descends by the pitch interval of the grooves 65 of the magazine 60.

By repeatedly storing the substrate 1 in the magazine 60 and lowering the pitch interval of the lifter 42, the magazine 60 is filled with the plurality of substrates 1. When the magazine 60 is full, the lifter 42 descends until the delivery conveyor 43 reaches the height of the unloading conveyor 44 (hereinafter referred to as the unloading height). Then, the delivery conveyor 43 that has descended to the carry-out height moves the full magazine 60 to the carry-out conveyor 44 side and delivers it to the carry-out conveyor 44. When the delivery of the magazine 60 from the delivery conveyor 43 to the unloading conveyor 44 is completed, the lifter 42 raises the delivery conveyor 43 to the loading height again. By raising and lowering the lifter 42 in this way, the plurality of empty magazines 60 are filled up in order and passed to the carry-out conveyor 44.

The unloading conveyor 44 is configured so that the full magazines 60 can be placed on the unloading conveyor 44 in a state where a plurality of full magazines 60 are arranged along the X-axis direction. The unloading conveyor 44 receives the full magazine 60 from the unloading conveyor 43 that has descended to the unloading height. At this time, when the full magazine 60 is already mounted on the carry-out conveyor 44, the carry-out conveyor 44 delivers the new full magazine 60 while moving the existing magazine 60 to the opposite side to the elevating device 41. Receive from conveyor 43. By repeatedly receiving the magazine 60 in this way, a plurality of full magazines 60 are placed on the carry-out conveyor 44 in a state of being arranged along the X-axis direction. The maximum number of magazines 60 mounted on the carry-out conveyor 44 is, for example, 3. However, the maximum number is not limited to 3, and may be any number as long as it is 2 or more.

The transport device 50 transports at least one full magazine 60 mounted on the carry-out conveyor 44 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the mechanism of the loader 30b.

The loader 30b takes out each of the plurality of boards 1 in order from the magazine 60 in which the plurality of boards 1 are housed, and sends them out to the second component mounting device 92. Such a loader 30b includes an elevating device 31, a carry-out conveyor 34, and a carry-in conveyor 35.

The carry-in conveyor 35 is configured so that the full magazines 60 can be placed on the carry-in conveyor 35 in a state where a plurality of full magazines 60 are arranged along the X-axis direction. The carry-in conveyor 35 moves the full magazine 60 mounted on the elevating device 31 to the elevating device 31 side and delivers it to the elevating device 31. The maximum number of magazines 60 mounted on the carry-in conveyor 35 is, for example, 3. However, the maximum number is not limited to 3, and may be any number as long as it is 2 or more.

The elevating device 31 includes a delivery conveyor 33 and a lifter 32. The lifter 32 raises and lowers the delivery conveyor 33. The lifter 32 lowers the delivery conveyor 33 to the height of the carry-in conveyor 35 (hereinafter referred to as the carry-in height). At this time, the delivery conveyor 33 receives the full magazine 60 from the carry-in conveyor 35 and moves the full magazine 60 to the second component mounting device 92 side. Then, the lifter 32 rises or falls to a predetermined second reference height. Next, when the substrate 1 is taken out from the magazine 60 on the delivery conveyor 33 to the second component mounting device 92 side, the lifter 32 rises by the pitch interval of the grooves 65 of the magazine 60.

The magazine 60 is emptied by repeatedly taking out the substrate 1 from the magazine 60 and increasing the pitch interval of the lifter 32. When the magazine 60 is emptied, the lifter 32 rises until the delivery conveyor 33 reaches the height of the unloading conveyor 34 (hereinafter referred to as the unloading height). Then, the delivery conveyor 33 that has risen to the carry-out height moves the empty magazine 60 to the carry-out conveyor 34 side and delivers it to the carry-out conveyor 34. When the delivery of the magazine 60 from the delivery conveyor 33 to the unloading conveyor 34 is completed, the lifter 32 lowers the delivery conveyor 33 to the loading height again. By raising and lowering the lifter 32 in this way, a plurality of full magazines 60 are emptied in order and passed to the carry-out conveyor 34.

The unloading conveyor 34 is configured so that the empty magazines 60 can be placed on the unloading conveyor 34 in a state where a plurality of empty magazines 60 are arranged along the X-axis direction. The unloading conveyor 34 receives an empty magazine 60 from the delivery conveyor 33 that has risen to the unloading height. At this time, when the empty magazine 60 is already mounted on the unloading conveyor 34, the unloading conveyor 34 delivers the new empty magazine 60 while moving the existing magazine 60 to the opposite side to the elevating device 31. Receive from conveyor 33. By repeatedly receiving the magazine 60 in this way, a plurality of empty magazines 60 are placed on the carry-out conveyor 34 in a state of being arranged along the X-axis direction. The maximum number of magazines 60 mounted on the carry-out conveyor 34 is, for example, 3. However, the maximum number is not limited to 3, and may be any number as long as it is 2 or more.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configurations of the unloader 40a, the loader 30b, and the transport management device 10.

The unloader 40a includes a first substrate number detection unit 411, a first magazine number detection unit 412, a first drive mechanism 413, a first control unit 414, and a first communication unit 415.

The first substrate number detection unit 411 detects the number of substrates 1 housed in the magazine 60 in the elevating device 41 of the unloader 40a. For example, the first substrate number detection unit 411 is provided with a weight sensor, and even if the number of substrates 1 stored in the magazine 60 is detected from the weight obtained by the weight sensor, that is, the weight applied on the delivery conveyor 43. good. That is, the first substrate number detection unit 411 is stored in the magazine 60 by subtracting the weight of only the magazine 60 from the weight applied on the transfer conveyor 43 and dividing the subtraction result by the weight of the substrate 1. The number of substrates 1 may be calculated. Further, the first substrate number detection unit 411 may include an infrared sensor and detect the number of substrates 1 housed in the magazine 60 by infrared rays.

The first magazine number detection unit 412 detects the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the unloading conveyor 44 of the unloader 40a. For example, the first magazine number detection unit 412 is provided with a weight sensor, and the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the carry-out conveyor 44 is based on the weight obtained by the weight sensor, that is, the weight applied on the carry-out conveyor 44. May be detected. That is, the first magazine number detection unit 412 calculates the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the carry-out conveyor 44 by dividing the weight applied on the carry-out conveyor 44 by the weight of the full magazine 60. May be good. Further, the first magazine number detection unit 412 may include an infrared sensor and detect the number of magazines 60 by infrared rays.

The first drive mechanism 413 is a mechanism composed of a lifter 42, a delivery conveyor 43, a carry-out conveyor 44, and a carry-in conveyor 45.

The first communication unit 415 communicates with the transport management device 10.

The first control unit 414 controls the first drive mechanism 413 and the first communication unit 415.

The loader 30b includes a second substrate number detection unit 311, a second magazine number detection unit 312, a second drive mechanism 313, a second control unit 314, and a second communication unit 315.

The second substrate number detection unit 311 detects the number of substrates 1 remaining in the magazine 60 in the elevating device 31 of the loader 30b. Like the first substrate number detection unit 411, the second substrate number detection unit 311 detects the number of the substrates 1 by using a weight sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like.

The second magazine number detection unit 312 detects the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the carry-in conveyor 35 of the loader 30b. Like the first magazine number detection unit 412, the second magazine number detection unit 312 detects the number of full magazines 60 by using a weight sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like.

The second drive mechanism 313 is a mechanism composed of a lifter 32, a delivery conveyor 33, a carry-out conveyor 34, and a carry-in conveyor 35.

The second communication unit 315 communicates with the transport management device 10.

The second control unit 314 controls the second drive mechanism 313 and the second communication unit 315.

The transport management device 10 includes a time calculation unit 11, a determination unit 12, a third communication unit 13, a third control unit 14, an acquisition unit 15, an information storage unit 16, and an instruction unit 17.

The third communication unit 13 communicates with the first communication unit 415 of the unloader 40a and the second communication unit 315 of the loader 30b. This communication is done over wired or wireless. The radio may be Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee, or a specified low power radio.

The acquisition unit 15 acquires various information from the unloader 40a and the loader 30b via the third communication unit 13. Further, the acquisition unit 15 acquires various information stored in the information storage unit 16.

The time calculation unit 11 calculates each time related to the transportation of the magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b by using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 15.

The determination unit 12 determines whether it is necessary to transport at least one magazine 60 containing the plurality of substrates 1 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b by using each time calculated by the time calculation unit 11.

The instruction unit 17 outputs an instruction signal according to the determination result by the determination unit 12 to the display device 20. This instruction signal is, for example, a signal instructing that at least one magazine 60 is conveyed from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. When the display device 20 acquires the instruction signal, the display device 20 displays the content indicated by the instruction signal. Therefore, a message or the like instructing to transport at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b is displayed on the display device 20. The operator who sees such a message transports at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b by using the transport device 50.

The information storage unit 16 is a recording medium that holds various types of information used for calculating the time by the time calculation unit 11. For example, the information storage unit 16 is a hard disk, a RAM (Read Only Memory), a ROM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory, or the like. The information storage unit 16 may be volatile or non-volatile.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the information storage unit 16.

The information storage unit 16 stores the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information.

The first work information indicates the first work time ta1 as the time required for the mounting work on the substrate 1 by the first component mounting device 91. This mounting work is a work in which the first component mounting device 91 mounts at least one predetermined component on the supplied substrate 1 and carries it out.

The second work information indicates the second work time ta2 as the time required for the mounting work on the substrate 1 by the second component mounting device 92. This mounting work is a work in which the second component mounting device 92 mounts at least one predetermined component on the supplied substrate 1 and carries it out.

The transport information indicates the transport time T required for the transport device 50 to transport the magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a schematic processing operation of the transport management device 10.

The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires unloader information regarding the storage status of the substrate 1 in the unloader 40a and loader information regarding the removal status of the substrate 1 in the loader 30b (step S1).

The determination unit 12 determines whether or not it is necessary to transfer the magazine 60 to the loader 30b based on the unloader information and the loader information (step S2). That is, the determination unit 12 determines whether it is necessary to transport at least one magazine 60 containing the plurality of substrates 1 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the transfer is not necessary (No in step S2), the transfer management device 10 repeatedly executes the process from step S1.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that it is necessary to transfer (Yes in step S2), the instruction unit 17 instructs the first to convey at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. The instruction signal is output to the third device (step S3). This third device is, for example, a display device 20. Upon receiving the first instruction signal, the display device 20 displays the content indicated by the first instruction signal. That is, the display device 20 displays a message or the like urging the unloader 40a to transport at least one magazine 60 to the loader 30b.

When the transfer device 50 is a transfer robot, the third device may be the transfer device 50. In this case, when the transport device 50 receives the first instruction signal, it self-propells to transport at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

As a result, it is determined whether or not the magazine 60 needs to be transported based on the storage status of the substrate 1 in the unloader 40a and the removal status of the substrate 1 in the loader 30b, so that the efficiency of the transport work can be improved. can. That is, conventionally, it is determined whether or not the magazine needs to be transported based on the situation of only one of the unloader and the loader, but in the present embodiment, the situation of both the unloader 40a and the loader 30b is determined. Judgment is based on. Therefore, since there is no board 1 used for each work of the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92, it is possible to prevent the work from being stopped, and a plurality of mounting boards due to the work. It is possible to shorten the production time required for the production of. Further, it is possible to reduce the number of times that at least one magazine 60 containing each of the plurality of substrates 1 is conveyed from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. As a result, the efficiency of the transport work can be improved.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a detailed processing operation of the transport management device 10.

The third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 first initializes the variable i to 1 (step S4). Then, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the magazine information i and the magazine information (i + 1) as unloader information (step S11). This magazine information i is information regarding the storage status of the substrate 1 in the magazine i of the unloader 40a. The magazine information (i + 1) is information regarding the storage status of the substrate 1 in the magazine (i + 1) next to the magazine i. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the magazine information i and the magazine information (i + 1) from the unloader 40a via the third communication unit 13.

The magazine i is the magazine 60 specified by the variable i, and more specifically, the magazine 60 handled by the unloader 40a in the i-th order. When i = 1, the magazine information i is the information regarding the storage status of the first magazine 60 first handled by the unloader 40a, and the magazine information (i + 1) is handled next by the unloader 40a. This is information on the storage status of the second magazine 60. The magazine i and the magazine information i are also referred to as the first magazine and the first magazine information, and the magazine (i + 1) and the magazine information (i + 1) are also referred to as the second magazine and the second magazine information.

Next, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the final magazine information as loader information (step S12). This final magazine information is information regarding the removal status of the substrate 1 in the magazine 60 which is finally handled by the loader 30b. For example, the second control unit 314 of the loader 30b determines whether or not the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the carry-in conveyor 35 detected by the second magazine number detection unit 312 is zero. .. Then, when the second control unit 314 determines that the number of the full magazines 60 is 0, the second control unit 314 determines that the magazine 60 in the elevating device 31 is the magazine 60 to be handled last. Then, the second control unit 314 of the loader 30b transmits the above-mentioned final magazine information as the information of the magazine 60 to be handled last to the transfer management device 10 via the second communication unit 315. The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires the final magazine information from the loader 30b via the third communication unit 13.

The final magazine information is also referred to as the third magazine information, and the magazine last handled by the loader 30b is also referred to as the last magazine or the third magazine.

Further, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the first work information regarding the first work time ta1 of the first component mounting device 91 (step S13). Specifically, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the first work information from the information storage unit 16. The first time information is information on the working time for the substrate 1 in the first device, which is the first component mounting device 91.

Further, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the second work information regarding the second work time ta2 of the second component mounting device 92 (step S14). Specifically, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the second work information from the information storage unit 16. The second time information is information on the working time for the substrate 1 in the second device, which is the second component mounting device 92.

Further, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the transfer information regarding the transfer time T required to transfer the magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b (step S15). Specifically, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the transfer information from the information storage unit 16.

The determination unit 12 determines whether or not it is necessary to transfer the magazine 60 to the loader 30b based on the information acquired in steps S11 to S15 (step S2a). That is, the determination unit 12 loads at least the magazine i from the unloader 40a at a predetermined time based on the magazine information i, the magazine information (i + 1), the final magazine information, the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information. Determine if it is necessary to transport to 30b. The predetermined time is, for example, a time when the magazine i is full and a time when it is determined whether or not the magazine i needs to be transported.

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the magazine i needs to be transported (Yes in step S2a), the instruction unit 17 instructs the first instruction to transport at least the magazine i from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. The signal is output to the third device (step S3a). At this time, the instruction unit 17 may acquire information indicating the number of magazines 60 detected by the first magazine number detection unit 412 of the unloader 40a from the unloader 40a via the third communication unit 13. The information specifically indicates the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the unloading conveyor 44 of the unloader 40a. Therefore, the instruction unit 17 may output a first instruction signal instructing the loader 30b to carry the number of magazines 60 indicated by the information to the third device.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that it is not necessary to convey at least the magazine i to the loader 30b (No in step S2a), the third control unit 14 increments the variable i (step S5). Then, the third control unit 14 causes the acquisition unit 15 and the determination unit 12 to repeatedly execute the processing from step S11. Therefore, in this case, the instruction unit 17 executes the process of step S3a at a timing after the above-mentioned predetermined time. That is, the instruction unit 17 sends a second instruction signal instructing that at least the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) be collectively transported from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b at a timing after the above-mentioned predetermined time. Output to the device.

It should be noted that each of the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) whose transport is instructed by the second instruction signal is the magazine 60 before the variable i is incremented. For example, in the first step S2a, it is determined that the magazine (i = 1) does not need to be conveyed, and in the second step S2a, it is determined that the magazine (i = 2) needs to be conveyed. At this time, instead of the magazine (i = 2) and the magazine (i = 3), the magazine (i = 1) and the magazine (i = 2) before the increment of the variable i are instructed to be collectively conveyed. 2 An instruction signal is output. This second instruction signal is output at a timing when the magazine (i = 2) is full after a predetermined time when the magazine (i = 1) is full.

Further, the third device to which the second instruction signal is output is, for example, the display device 20 as well as the output destination of the first instruction signal. Upon receiving the second instruction signal, the display device 20 displays the content indicated by the second instruction signal. That is, the display device 20 displays a message or the like urging at least the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) to be collectively transported from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

When the transfer device 50 is a transfer robot, the third device may be the transfer device 50. In this case, when the transport device 50 receives the second instruction signal, it self-propells to transport at least the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b at once.

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not the magazine i needs to be transported to the loader 30b at a predetermined time based on various information. Further, when it is determined that it is not necessary to carry the magazine, a second instruction signal instructing the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) to be carried together is output at a timing after the predetermined time. .. Therefore, it is possible to save the trouble of transporting only the magazine i at a predetermined time, and it is possible to improve the efficiency of the transport work.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a more detailed processing operation of the transport management device 10.

The third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 first initializes the variable i to 1 (step S4). Then, as a part of the process of step S11 of FIG. 9, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the magazine information i indicating the full time t1 (i) when the magazine i of the unloader 40a is full (step S11a). The full time t1 (i) is also called the first magazine full time. That is, the magazine information i includes information regarding the first magazine full time, which is the full time t1 (i) in which the magazine i is filled by the plurality of substrates 1. Further, the above-mentioned predetermined time in the example of FIG. 9 is the full time t1 (i).

For example, as described above, the first substrate number detection unit 411 of the unloader 40a detects the number of substrates 1 housed in the magazine 60 in the elevating device 41. The magazine 60 is the i-th treated magazine 60, that is, the magazine i. The number of substrates 1 detected by the first substrate number detection unit 411 reaches the maximum number of substrates 1 that can be stored in the magazine 60. At this time, it is detected that the magazine i is full. As a result, the first control unit 414 of the unloader 40a transmits the magazine information i indicating the full time t1 (i) when the magazine i is full to the transport management device 10 via the first communication unit 415. The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires the magazine information i, that is, the full time t1 (i) from the unloader 40a via the third communication unit 13.

Further, the acquisition unit 15 acquires magazine information (i + 1) indicating the number of substrates in the magazine (i + 1) of the unloader 40a as a part of the process of step S11 of FIG. 9 (step S11b). That is, the magazine information (i + 1) includes information on the number of substrates related to the number of substrates 1 stored in the magazine (i + 1).

For example, the first substrate number detection unit 411 of the unloader 40a detects the number of substrates 1 housed in the magazine (i + 1) arranged in the elevating device 41 next after the magazine i is full. do. As a result, the first control unit 414 of the unloader 40a provides the board number information indicating the number of boards 1 stored in the magazine (i + 1), which is detected by the first board number detection unit 411, to the first communication unit. It is transmitted to the transport management device 10 via 415. The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires the board number information as magazine information (i + 1) from the unloader 40a via the third communication unit 13.

Next, the acquisition unit 15 acquires final magazine information indicating the number of substrates in the final magazine 60 of the loader 30b (step S12). That is, the final magazine information includes the number of substrates information regarding the number of substrates 1 remaining in the final magazine 60.

For example, the second control unit 314 of the loader 30b determines that the magazine 60 in the elevating device 31 is the last magazine 60, as described above. At this time, the second substrate number detection unit 311 of the loader 30b detects the number of substrates 1 remaining in the magazine 60. As a result, the second control unit 314 of the loader 30b sends the second communication unit 315 to the number of boards information indicating the number of boards 1 remaining in the last magazine, which is detected by the second board number detection unit 311. It is transmitted to the transport management device 10 via. The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires the board number information from the loader 30b as the final magazine information via the third communication unit 13.

Next, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information by performing the processes of steps S13 to S15 shown in FIG. 10 (step S15).

Then, the time calculation unit 11 calculates the full time t1 (i + 1) when the magazine (i + 1) of the unloader 40a is full (step S16). That is, the time calculation unit 11 calculates the second magazine full time, which is the time when the magazine (i + 1) is filled by the plurality of substrates 1, based on the number of boards information of the magazine (i + 1) and the first work information. Specifically, the time calculation unit 11 subtracts the number of boards in the magazine (i + 1) indicated by the magazine information (i + 1) from the maximum number of boards 1 that can be stored in the magazine 60, thereby calculating the remaining number of boards. calculate. Then, the time calculation unit 11 multiplies the remaining number of stored items by the first work time ta1 indicated by the first work information, and adds the multiplication result to the current time. As a result, the full time t1 (i + 1), which is the full time of the second magazine, is calculated.

Next, the time calculation unit 11 calculates the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) at which the magazine (i + 1) of the unloader 40a arrives at the loader 30b (step S17). That is, the time calculation unit 11 determines the arrival time when the magazine (i + 1) filled with the plurality of substrates 1 arrives at the loader 30b based on the full time t1 (i + 1) which is the second magazine full time and the transport time T. Calculate t1 (i + 1) + T). Specifically, the time calculation unit 11 calculates the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) by adding the transport time T to the full time t1 (i + 1).

Further, the time calculation unit 11 calculates an empty time t2 at which the last magazine 60 of the loader 30b becomes empty (step S18). That is, the time calculation unit 11 calculates the empty time when the number of substrates 1 remaining in the last magazine 60 becomes 0 based on the information on the number of substrates in the last magazine 60 and the second work information. The empty time is also called the third magazine empty time. Specifically, the time calculation unit 11 multiplies the number of substrates in the last magazine 60 by the second work time ta2 indicated by the second work information, and adds the multiplication result to the current time. As a result, the empty time t2, which is the empty time of the third magazine, is calculated.

Then, the determination unit 12 determines whether or not the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) as the process of step S2a of FIG. 9 (step S2b). That is, the determination unit 12 determines at the full time t1 (i) whether the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) of the magazine (i + 1). Thereby, it is determined whether it is necessary to transport at least the magazine i from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b at a predetermined time which is the full time t1 (i).

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (Yes in step S2b), the indicator unit 17 is the same as the example shown in FIG. 1 The instruction signal is output to the third device (step S3a).

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is not earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (No in step S2b), the third control unit 14 increments the variable i (step). S5). Then, the third control unit 14 causes the acquisition unit 15, the time calculation unit 11, and the determination unit 12 to repeatedly execute the processing from step S11a. Therefore, in this case, the instruction unit 17 executes the process of step S3a at a timing after the predetermined time which is the full time t1 (i). That is, the instruction unit 17 sends a second instruction signal instructing that at least the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) be collectively transported from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b at a timing after the predetermined time. Output to. Note that each of the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) whose transport is instructed by the second instruction signal is the magazine 60 before the variable i is incremented, as in the example shown in FIG.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the transfer determination is made at the full time t1 (i) when the magazine i of the unloader 40a is full. In this judgment, after the next magazine (i + 1) of the unloader 40a is full, if the full magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) are collectively transported to the loader 30b, those magazines become the loader 30b. Before arriving, it is determined whether the last magazine 60 of the loader 30b will be empty. Then, when it is determined that the last magazine 60 is not emptied, the second instruction signal is output at a timing after the predetermined time which is the full time t1 (i). That is, it is instructed to collectively transport the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1). Therefore, the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) can be efficiently conveyed to the loader 30b without stopping the work of the second component mounting device 92 using the loader 30b.

(Modification example 1)
In this modification, the transport of the magazine 60 is instructed based not only on the empty time t2 and the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) but also on the number of full magazines 60 mounted on the unloader 40a.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the transport management device 10 in the first modification.

The third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 first initializes the variable i to 1 (step S4). Then, the acquisition unit 15 executes the information acquisition process including the processes of steps S11a to S15 of FIG. 10 (step S21). Next, the time calculation unit 11 executes the time calculation process including the processes of steps S16 to S18 of FIG. 10 (step S22).

Then, the determination unit 12 determines whether or not the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) based on the empty time t2 and the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) calculated in step S22. Is determined (step S2b).

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (Yes in step S2b), the indicator unit 17 is the same as the example shown in FIG. 1 The instruction signal is output to the third device (step S3a).

On the other hand, in this modification, if the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is not earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (No in step S2b), the determination unit 12 further unloads. It is determined whether or not the number of magazines in 40a is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (step S31). That is, the determination unit 12 determines whether the number of at least one magazine 60 including the magazine i, which is mounted on the unloader 40a and is filled with the plurality of substrates 1, is a predetermined number or more.

For example, the acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires information indicating the number of magazines 60 detected by the first magazine number detection unit 412 of the unloader 40a from the unloader 40a via the third communication unit 13. .. Then, in step S31, the determination unit 12 determines whether the number of at least one magazine 60 indicated by the acquired information is a predetermined number or more.

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the number of at least one magazine 60 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (Yes in step S31), the instruction unit 17 outputs the first instruction signal to the third device. (Step S3a). That is, the instruction unit 17 outputs a first instruction signal instructing to convey at least one magazine 60 including the magazine i from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b to the third device.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that the number of at least one magazine 60 is not equal to or greater than a predetermined number (No in step S31), the third control unit 14 increments the variable i (step S5). Then, the third control unit 14 causes the acquisition unit 15, the time calculation unit 11, and the determination unit 12 to repeatedly execute the processing from step S21. Therefore, in this case, the instruction unit 17 executes the process of step S3a at a timing after the predetermined time which is the full time t1 (i). That is, the instruction unit 17 sends a second instruction signal instructing that at least the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) be collectively transported from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b at a timing after the predetermined time. Output to. It should be noted that each of the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) whose transport is instructed by the second instruction signal is the magazine 60 before the variable i is incremented.

As described above, in this modification, even in a situation where the magazine i and the magazine (i + 1) can be collectively conveyed without stopping the work of the second component mounting device 92 using the loader 30b. When the number of magazines 60 filled with the unloader 40a is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the magazine i is conveyed to the loader 30b. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the unloader 40a from overflowing the full magazine 60.

Further, when the number of magazines 60 full by the unloader 40a is less than a predetermined number, the magazines 60 full by the unloader 40a do not overflow, so that the second instruction signal can be output appropriately. That is, the full magazines 60 do not overflow in the unloader 40a, and after waiting for the next magazine (i + 1) to become full in the unloader 40a, the full magazines i and the magazines (i + 1) are collectively collected. It can be transported to the loader 30b.

(Modification 2)
In this modification, the magazine 60 is further instructed to be conveyed based on the work type information.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing work type information in the second modification.

As shown in FIG. 12, the work type information d1 indicates a plurality of work types, their respective priorities of the plurality of work types, and the scheduled work completion time.

For example, the plurality of work types include pallet replenishment work, reel replenishment work, magazine transfer work, nozzle preparation work, pin preparation work, and adhesive replenishment work.

The pallet replenishment work is, for example, a work of replenishing the pallets to devices such as the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92. The pallet is a plate or a stand, and a plurality of parts mounted on the substrate 1 are replenished in a state of being placed on the pallet.

The reel replenishment work is, for example, a work of replenishing the reels to devices such as the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92. The reel is replenished in a state in which component tapes for holding a plurality of components mounted on the substrate 1 are wound.

The magazine transfer operation is an operation of transferring at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

The nozzle preparation work is, for example, a work of arranging nozzles for sucking and holding parts and mounting them on the substrate 1 in devices such as the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92.

The pin preparation work is a work of setting pins provided in devices such as the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92 for supporting the substrate 1 on which the components are mounted from below. be.

The adhesive replenishment work is a work of replenishing devices such as the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92 with an adhesive for adhering the components to the substrate 1.

The work completion scheduled time of each of the above-mentioned plurality of work types indicated by the work type information d1 is the time when the work of the work type should be completed. Therefore, if the work is not completed by the scheduled work completion time, the work of the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92 will be stopped or interrupted, and the production time of the mounting board will be extended. ..

Further, the priority of each of the above-mentioned plurality of work types indicated by the work type information d1 is a numerical value set according to the scheduled work completion time of the work type, and the higher the priority, the smaller the numerical value. show. For example, in the work type information d1, the earlier the scheduled work completion time of the work type, the higher the priority, that is, the smaller numerical value is associated with the work type. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 12, the work having the highest priority is the work of the work type "pallet replenishment work", and the work having the third highest priority is the work of the work type "magazine transfer work". ..

Such work type information d1 may be generated by, for example, the third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 and stored in the information storage unit 16. Further, the work type information d1 may be periodically updated according to the status of the work of mounting the component on the substrate 1.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the transport management device 10 in the second modification.

The third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 first initializes the variable i to 1 (step S4). Then, the acquisition unit 15 executes the information acquisition process including the processes of steps S11a to S15 of FIG. 10 (step S21). Next, the time calculation unit 11 executes the time calculation process including the processes of steps S16 to S18 of FIG. 10 (step S22).

Then, the determination unit 12 determines whether or not the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) based on the empty time t2 and the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) calculated in step S22. Is determined (step S2b).

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (Yes in step S2b), the indicator unit 17 is the same as the example shown in FIG. 1 The instruction signal is output to the third device (step S3a).

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is not earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (No in step S2b), the determination unit 12 further increases the number of magazines of the unloader 40a. It is determined whether or not the number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (step S31). That is, the determination unit 12 determines whether the number of at least one magazine 60 including the magazine i, which is mounted on the unloader 40a and is filled with the plurality of substrates 1, is a predetermined number or more.

Here, in this modification, when the determination unit 12 determines that the number of at least one magazine 60 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (Yes in step S31), the acquisition unit 15 stores the magazine 60 in the information storage unit 16. Acquire the work type information d1 that has been performed (step S32). That is, the acquisition unit 15 acquires the work type information d1 indicating the priority of each of the plurality of operations including the magazine transfer operation.

Then, the determination unit 12 determines whether there is a high priority work which is a work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work based on the priority of each of the plurality of works shown in the work type information d1 (step). S33). Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that there is a high priority work (Yes in step S33), the instruction unit 17 outputs information regarding an instruction to execute the high priority work to the third device (step). S34). The third device is, for example, a display device 20. Upon receiving the information regarding the instruction for carrying out the high-priority work, the display device 20 displays a message prompting the execution of the high-priority work. After that, the determination unit 12 repeatedly executes the process of step S33.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that there is no high priority work (No in step S33), the instruction unit 17 outputs the first instruction signal (step S3a). That is, the instruction unit 17 outputs a first instruction signal instructing to convey at least one magazine 60 including the magazine i from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b to the third device.

As described above, in this modification, even if the number of magazines 60 filled with the unloader 40a is equal to or more than a predetermined number, when there is a high priority work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work, the high priority work is performed. Is instructed to take precedence over the magazine transport work. For example, if there is sufficient time for the magazine (i + 1) to fill up and there is high priority work before the magazine (i + 1) is full, the implementation of the high priority work is prioritized. NS. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the efficiency of other work from being reduced in order to improve the efficiency of the transport work. Further, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the work of the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92 is stopped or interrupted.

Further, when there is no high priority work having a higher priority than the magazine transport work, the magazine transport work is instructed with priority. That is, at least the transport of the magazine i to the loader 30b is instructed. For example, if there is not enough time for the magazine (i + 1) to fill up, the magazine transport operation has the highest priority. In such a case, the magazine i is conveyed to the loader 30b without waiting for the magazine (i + 1) to fill up. As a result, it is possible to prevent the unloader 40a from overflowing the full magazine 60.

(Modification example 3)
A temporary storage location is used for transporting the magazine 60 in this modification.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a transport system according to the third modification.

The transport system 101 in the third modification has a temporary storage location 80. For example, the magazine 60 filled by the unloader 40a may not be placed on either of the unloader 40a and the loader 30b. In such a case, the transport device 50 transports the magazine 60 filled by the unloader 40a to the temporary storage location 80. Then, when the full magazine 60 can be placed on the loader 30b, the transfer device 50 conveys the full magazine 60 to the loader 30b.

That is, the transport device 50 transports the full magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b, or transports the full magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b via the temporary storage location 80.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the transport management device 10 in the modified example 3.

The third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 first initializes the variable i to 1 (step S4). Then, the acquisition unit 15 executes the information acquisition process including the processes of steps S11a to S15 of FIG. 10 (step S21). Next, the time calculation unit 11 executes the time calculation process including the processes of steps S16 to S18 of FIG. 10 (step S22).

Then, the determination unit 12 determines whether or not the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) based on the empty time t2 and the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) calculated in step S120. Is determined (step S2b).

Here, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (Yes in step S2b), the instruction unit 17 sends the loader 30b of at least one magazine 60 to the loader 30b. An instruction signal instructing the transfer of the above is output to the third apparatus (step S3b). The at least one magazine 60 may be a magazine 60 other than the magazine i. Further, the at least one magazine 60 may be mounted on the unloader 40a or may be mounted on the temporary storage location 80. The third device is, for example, a display device 20.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that the empty time t2 is not earlier than the arrival time (t1 (i + 1) + T) (No in step S2b), the transport management device 10 is similar to the example shown in FIG. The processes of steps S31, S32, and S33 are performed.

Here, in this modification, when the determination unit 12 determines that there is no high priority work in step S33 (No in step S33), the loader 30b loads the full magazine 60 mounted on the unloader 40a. It is determined whether or not it can be placed in (step S35).

For example, the acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires information indicating the number of magazines 60 detected by the second magazine number detection unit 312 of the loader 30b from the loader 30b via the third communication unit 13. Then, in step S35, if the number of magazines 60 indicated by the acquired information is less than the maximum number of magazines 60 that can be placed on the carry-in conveyor 35 of the loader 30b, the determination unit 12 is full. Is determined to be able to be placed on the loader 30b. On the contrary, the determination unit 12 determines that the full magazine 60 cannot be placed on the loader 30b if the number of magazines 60 indicated by the information is equal to or greater than the maximum number.

Then, when the determination unit 12 determines that the full magazine 60 cannot be placed (No in step S35), the instruction unit 17 outputs a third instruction signal to the third device (step S37). This third instruction signal is a signal instructing that at least one magazine 60 mounted on the unloader 40a is transported to the temporary storage location 80.

After the process of step S37, the determination unit 12 again determines whether the magazine 60 filled with the plurality of substrates 1 can be placed on the loader 30b (step S38). When the determination unit 12 determines that the loader 30b can be mounted (Yes in step S38), the instruction unit 17 instructs the loader 30b to transport at least one magazine 60 of the temporary storage location 80 to the loader 30b. Is output to the third device (step S39). Further, when the determination unit 12 determines that the loader 30b cannot be mounted (No in step S38), the determination unit 12 repeatedly executes the process of step S38.

Further, in step S35, when it is determined that the magazine 60 can be placed on the loader 30b, the instruction unit 17 outputs a fourth instruction signal to the third device (step S36). This fourth instruction signal is a signal instructing that the full magazine 60 mounted on the unloader 40a is conveyed to the loader 30b.

In steps S3b, S36, S37, and S39, an instruction signal such as a third instruction signal is output to, for example, a third device which is a display device 20. Upon receiving the instruction signal, the display device 20 displays the content indicated by the instruction signal. When the transfer device 50 is a transfer robot, the third device may be the transfer device 50. In this case, when the transport device 50 receives the instruction signal, the transport device 50 transports the magazine 60 by self-propelling in response to the instruction signal.

As described above, in the present modification, when the full magazine 60 cannot be placed on the loader 30b, the magazine 60 can be transported to the temporary storage location 80. Further, even if the full magazine 60 is conveyed to the loader 30b, it is possible to suppress the occurrence that the magazine 60 cannot be placed on the loader 30b.

(Modification example 4)
In this modification, the magazine 60 is instructed to be transported according to the transport request information.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the processing operation of the transport management device 10 in the modified example 4.

The acquisition unit 15 of the transport management device 10 acquires the unloader information and the loader information as in the example of FIG. 8 (step S1).

The determination unit 12 determines whether or not it is necessary to transfer the magazine 60 to the loader 30b based on the unloader information and the loader information (step S2). That is, the determination unit 12 determines whether it is necessary to transport at least one magazine 60 containing the plurality of substrates 1 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b.

Here, in the present modification, when the determination unit 12 determines that it is not necessary to transport (No in step S2), it further determines whether or not the acquisition unit 15 has acquired the transport request information (step S41). .. The transport request information is information for requesting transport of the magazine 60 containing the plurality of substrates 1 to the loader 30b. For example, the transport request information is transmitted from the second communication unit 315 of the loader 30b, and is acquired by the acquisition unit 15 via the third communication unit 13 of the transport management device 10. That is, the transport request information is information that the loader 30b requests the full magazine 60. The transport request information may be transmitted from a device other than the loader 30b.

Then, when the determination unit 12 determines that the acquisition unit 15 has not acquired the transfer request information (No in step S41), the transfer management device 10 repeatedly executes the process from step S1.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that the acquisition unit 15 has acquired the transfer request information (Yes in step S41), the instruction unit 17 transfers at least one magazine 60 from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. Is output to the third device (step S3).

As a result, when the transport request information is acquired, the full magazine 60 can be transported to the loader 30b, and the degree of freedom of transport can be increased.

(Modification 5)
The transport management device 10 in this modification determines a predetermined number of magazines 60 in the above modifications 1 to 4. This predetermined number is used for the determination in step S31 of FIGS. 11, 13, and 15. Further, a numerical value obtained by multiplying the maximum number of substrates 1 that can be stored in the magazine 60 by a predetermined number thereof is also referred to as the number of staying sheets of the substrate 1.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a simulation result of a production time according to the number of mounted substrates produced and the number of staying substrates 1. Here, the number of staying sheets is the number of sheets of the substrate 1 collectively transported from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. That is, when the accumulated number of substrates 1 is stored in one or more magazines by the unloader 40a, the one or more magazines are collectively conveyed to the loader 30b. When the number of mounted boards produced is less than the number of staying sheets, the same number of boards 1 as the number of boards produced is collectively conveyed from the unloader 40a to the loader 30b. That is, when the unloader 40a stores the same number of substrates 1 as the production number in one or more magazines, the one or more magazines are collectively conveyed to the loader 30b.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the number of mounting boards produced is 25, the production time is the same regardless of whether the number of staying sheets is 100 or 25. However, when the number of mounting boards produced is 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 1000, the retention time is 100. And 25 sheets are different in each case.

Specifically, the production time when the number of mounting boards produced is 50 differs depending on the case where the number of staying sheets is 100 and 25, respectively. When the number of mounting boards produced is 50, the production time is 1 hour 7 minutes 16 seconds when the number of staying sheets is 100, and 59 minutes 26 seconds when the number of staying sheets is 25. .. That is, when the number of staying sheets is 25, the production time can be shortened by 12% as compared with the case where the number of staying sheets is 100.

Therefore, when the number of mounting boards produced is as small as 50 to 100, the smaller the number of staying boards, the shorter the production time.

However, the difference is small in the production time when the number of mounting boards produced is 150 or more, even if the number of staying sheets is different in each of the cases of 100 and 25. For example, when the number of mounting boards produced is 150, the production time is 2 hours 10 minutes 30 seconds when the number of staying sheets is 100, and 2 hours 7 minutes when the number of staying sheets is 25. 32 seconds. That is, the difference between the production time when the number of staying sheets is 25 and the production time when the number of staying sheets is 100 is only 2%.

Therefore, when the number of mounting boards produced is as large as 150 or more, it is difficult to obtain the effect of shortening the production time even if the number of staying sheets is reduced. Further, if the number of staying sheets is reduced, it is necessary to frequently transport one or more magazines 60, which lowers the efficiency of the transport work.

Therefore, the transfer management device 10 in the present modification determines the number of staying sheets in order to achieve both shortening of the production time and efficiency of the transfer work. That is, the transport management device 10 determines a predetermined number of magazines 60 in the above-mentioned modifications 1 to 4.

Specifically, the third control unit 14 of the transport management device 10 is a mounting board on which one or more parts are mounted on the board 1, which is produced by the work of the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92. The predetermined number is determined based on the number of production of. For example, the third control unit 14 determines the predetermined number to be smaller as the number of mounted boards produced is smaller.

Further, the third control unit 14 determines the number of substrates 1 to be housed in the magazine 60. That is, the third control unit 14 is produced based on the number of mounting boards in which one or more components are mounted on the board 1, which are produced by the work of the first component mounting device 91 and the second component mounting device 92. The loader 40a determines the number of substrates 1 to be stored in the magazine 60. For example, the determined number of substrates 1 is the maximum number of substrates 1 housed in the magazine 60 to fill the magazine 60.

As a result, it is possible to achieve both shortening of production time and efficiency of transportation work.

(Other variants)
Although the transport method and the like according to one or more embodiments have been described above based on the embodiment and each modification thereof, the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment and each modification. As long as the purpose of the present disclosure is not deviated, various modifications that can be conceived by those skilled in the art are applied to the above-described embodiment and each of the modified examples, and a form constructed by combining components in different modified examples is also within the scope of the present disclosure. May be included within.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 10 in the above embodiment, the full time t1 (i) is a predetermined time, and the respective processes of steps S11a to S18 and S2b are performed at the predetermined time. However, those processes may be performed at a timing deviated from the full time t1 (i).

Further, the transport device 50 in the above-described embodiment and each modification may be a trolley that transports the magazine 60 by being pushed by an operator, or may be a self-propelled transport robot. The transfer robot may be an AGV (Automated guided vehicle). In the present embodiment and the modified example, the efficiency of the transport work can be improved, so that the number of AGVs can be saved.

Further, in the above-described embodiment and each modification, the third magazine is the magazine 60 that is handled last by the loader 30b, but is not limited to the magazine 60 that is handled last. For example, the third magazine may be the magazine 60 treated at the Nth position from the end (N is an integer of 2 or more).

In the above-described embodiment and each modification, each component may be configured by dedicated hardware or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory. Here, the software that realizes the above-described embodiment and the transport management device 10 of each modification causes the computer to execute the processing of the flowchart shown by each of FIGS. 8 to 11, 13, 15, and 16. It is a program.

The following cases are also included in the present disclosure.

(1) The above-mentioned at least one device is specifically a computer system including a microprocessor, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a hard disk unit, a display unit, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like. be. Computer programs are stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. By operating the microprocessor according to a computer program, at least one of the above devices achieves its function. Here, a computer program is configured by combining a plurality of instruction codes indicating commands to a computer in order to achieve a predetermined function.

(2) A part or all of the components constituting at least one of the above devices may be composed of one system LSI (Large Scale Integration). A system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating a plurality of components on a single chip, and specifically, is a computer system including a microprocessor, a ROM, a RAM, and the like. .. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its function by operating the microprocessor according to the computer program.

(3) A part or all of the components constituting at least one of the above devices may be composed of an IC card or a single module that can be attached to and detached from the device. An IC card or module is a computer system composed of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, and the like. The IC card or module may include the above-mentioned super multifunctional LSI. When the microprocessor operates according to a computer program, the IC card or module achieves its function. This IC card or this module may have tamper resistance.

(4) The present disclosure may be the method shown above. Further, it may be a computer program that realizes these methods by a computer, or it may be a digital signal composed of a computer program.

The present disclosure also describes computer programs or recording media capable of computer-readable digital signals, such as flexible discs, hard disks, CDs (Compact Disc) -ROMs, DVDs, DVD-ROMs, DVD-RAMs, BDs (Blu-rays). It may be recorded on a registered trademark) Disc), a semiconductor memory, or the like. Further, it may be a digital signal recorded on these recording media.

Further, the present disclosure may transmit a computer program or a digital signal via a telecommunication line, a wireless or wired communication line, a network typified by the Internet, data broadcasting, or the like.

It may also be carried out by another independent computer system by recording the program or digital signal on a recording medium and transferring it, or by transferring the program or digital signal via a network or the like.

The present disclosure can be used in a system for producing a mounting board by mounting components on a board.

1 Board 10 Conveyor management device 11 Time calculation unit 12 Judgment unit 13 Third communication unit 14 Third control unit 15 Acquisition unit 16 Information storage unit 17 Indicator 20 Display device 30a, 30b Loader 31, 41 Lifting device 32, 42 Lifter 33 , 43 Delivery conveyor 34, 44 Carry-out conveyor 35, 45 Carry-in conveyor 40a, 40b Unloader 50 Conveyor device 60 Magazine 100, 101 Conveyor system 311 2nd board number detection unit 312 2nd magazine number detection unit 313 2nd drive mechanism 314 2 Control unit 315 2nd communication unit 411 1st board number detection unit 412 1st magazine number detection unit 413 1st drive mechanism 414 1st control unit 415 1st communication unit

Claims (20)

A method of transporting a magazine from an unloader to a loader.
The unloader sequentially acquires each of the plurality of substrates from the first device for each of the plurality of magazines and stores them in the magazine.
The loader sequentially takes out each of the plurality of boards from the magazine in which the plurality of boards are stored and sends them out to the second apparatus.
The transport method is
(A) The unloader information regarding the storage status of the board in the unloader and the loader information regarding the removal status of the board in the loader are acquired.
(B) Based on the unloader information and the loader information, it is determined whether at least one magazine containing the plurality of boards needs to be transported from the unloader to the loader.
Transport method. The transport method further
(C) When it is determined in the above (b) that it is necessary to convey the magazine, a first instruction signal instructing the at least one magazine to be conveyed from the unloader to the loader is output to the third apparatus.
The transport method according to claim 1. The unloader information is
First magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the first magazine handled by the unloader, and
Including the second magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the second magazine handled next by the unloader.
The loader information is
Includes 3rd magazine information regarding the removal status of the substrate in the 3rd magazine handled by the loader.
In (a) above, further
The first work information regarding the work time for the substrate in the first apparatus, the second work information regarding the work time for the substrate in the second apparatus, and the transport information regarding the transport time required for transporting the magazine from the unloader to the loader. And get,
In (b) above,
Based on the first magazine information, the second magazine information, the third magazine information, the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information, at least the first magazine is unloaded at a predetermined time. Determines if it is necessary to transport to the loader from
In (c) above, further
When it is determined in the above (b) that it is not necessary to convey at least the first magazine to the loader, at least the first magazine and the second magazine are collectively said at a timing after the predetermined time. A second instruction signal instructing the unloader to carry the loader is output to the third device.
The transport method according to claim 2. The first magazine information includes information regarding the first magazine full time, which is the time when the first magazine is filled by the plurality of substrates.
The predetermined time is the full time of the first magazine,
The second magazine information includes substrate number information regarding the number of substrates stored in the second magazine.
The third magazine information includes substrate number information regarding the number of substrates remaining in the third magazine.
In (b) above,
Based on the board number information of the second magazine and the first work information, the second magazine full time, which is the time when the second magazine is filled with the plurality of boards, is calculated.
Based on the second magazine full time and the transport time, the arrival time at which the second magazine filled with the plurality of substrates arrives at the loader is calculated.
Based on the number of boards information of the third magazine and the second work information, the empty time of the third magazine at which the number of boards remaining in the third magazine becomes 0 is calculated.
It is necessary to transport at least the first magazine from the unloader to the loader at the predetermined time by determining whether the empty time of the third magazine is earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine at the predetermined time. Judge if there is
In (c) above,
When it is determined in (b) that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the second instruction signal is sent to the third device at a timing after the predetermined time. Output to
The transport method according to claim 3. In (b) above,
When it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the first magazine further filled with the plurality of substrates mounted on the unloader. Determine if the number of at least one magazine, including the magazine, is greater than or equal to the specified number.
In (c) above,
When it is determined in (b) that the number of the at least one magazine is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the first instruction signal instructing the transport of the at least one magazine from the unloader to the loader is transmitted. Output to the third device,
The transport method according to claim 4. In (c) above,
When it is determined in the above (b) that the number of the at least one magazine is not equal to or more than the predetermined number, the second instruction signal is output to the third device at a timing after the predetermined time.
The transport method according to claim 5. In (b) above,
When it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the first magazine further filled with the plurality of substrates mounted on the unloader. Determine if the number of at least one magazine, including the magazine, is greater than or equal to the specified number.
The transport method further
(D) When it is determined in the above (b) that the number of the at least one magazine is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, work type information indicating the priority of each of the plurality of operations including the magazine transfer operation is acquired.
(E) Based on the priority of each of the plurality of operations, it is determined whether there is a high priority operation that has a higher priority than the magazine transport operation.
(F) When it is determined in the above (e) that there is the high priority work, the information regarding the instruction to carry out the high priority work is output.
The transport method according to claim 4. The transport method further
(G) When it is determined in the above (e) that the high priority work is not performed, the first instruction signal instructing that at least one magazine including the first magazine is transported from the unloader to the loader. Is output to the third device,
The transport method according to claim 7. The transport method further
(G) If it is determined in the above (e) that the high priority work is not performed, whether the magazine filled with the plurality of substrates mounted on the unloader can be mounted on the loader. Judge,
(H) When it is determined in the above (g) that the magazine cannot be placed, a third instruction signal instructing the magazine to be transported to the temporary storage location is output to the third device.
The transport method according to claim 7. The transport method further
(I) When it is determined in the above (g) that the magazine can be placed, a fourth instruction signal instructing the magazine to be conveyed to the loader is output to the third device.
The transport method according to claim 9. The transport method further
(J) When it is determined in the above (b) that it is not necessary to convey, it is determined whether or not the transfer request information requesting the transfer of the magazine containing the plurality of boards to the loader has been acquired.
(K) The transport method according to claim 2, wherein when it is determined in (j) that the transport request information has been acquired, the first instruction signal is output to the third device. The transport method further
(L) The predetermined number is determined based on the number of mounting boards produced by the work of the first device and the second device, in which one or more components are mounted on the board.
The transport method according to any one of claims 5 to 10. In the above (l), the predetermined number is determined to be a smaller number as the number of the mounting boards produced is smaller.
The transport method according to claim 12. The transport method further
(M) A substrate housed in the magazine by the unloader based on the number of mounting substrates produced by the work of the first apparatus and the second apparatus, in which one or more components are mounted on the substrate. Determine the number of sheets,
The transport method according to any one of claims 1 to 13. In (m), the number of substrates stored in the magazine by the unloader is determined to be smaller as the number of mounted substrates produced is smaller.
The transport method according to claim 14. A transport management device that manages transport from magazine unloader to loader.
The unloader sequentially acquires each of the plurality of substrates from the first device for each of the plurality of magazines and stores them in the magazine.
The loader sequentially takes out each of the plurality of boards from the magazine in which the plurality of boards are stored and sends them out to the second apparatus.
The transport management device is
An acquisition unit that acquires unloader information regarding the storage status of the board in the unloader and loader information regarding the removal status of the board in the loader.
Based on the unloader information and the loader information, a determination unit for determining whether it is necessary to transport at least one magazine containing the plurality of substrates from the unloader to the loader.
Transport management device. The transport management device further
When the determination unit determines that the magazine needs to be conveyed, the determination unit includes an instruction unit that outputs a first instruction signal instructing the unloader to convey the at least one magazine to the loader.
The transport management device according to claim 16. The unloader information is
First magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the first magazine handled by the unloader, and
Including the second magazine information regarding the storage status of the board in the second magazine handled next by the unloader.
The loader information is
Includes 3rd magazine information regarding the removal status of the substrate in the 3rd magazine handled by the loader.
The acquisition unit further
The first work information regarding the work time for the substrate in the first apparatus, the second work information regarding the work time for the substrate in the second apparatus, and the transport information regarding the transport time required for transporting the magazine from the unloader to the loader. And get,
The judgment unit
Based on the first magazine information, the second magazine information, the third magazine information, the first work information, the second work information, and the transport information, at least the first magazine is unloaded at a predetermined time. Determines if it is necessary to transport to the loader from
The indicator further
When the determination unit determines that it is not necessary to convey at least the first magazine to the loader, at least the first magazine and the second magazine are collectively combined at a timing after the predetermined time. A second instruction signal instructing the loader to carry the loader to the loader is output to the third device.
The transport management device according to claim 17. The first magazine information includes information regarding the first magazine full time, which is the time when the first magazine is filled by the plurality of substrates.
The predetermined time is the full time of the first magazine,
The second magazine information includes substrate number information regarding the number of substrates stored in the second magazine.
The third magazine information includes substrate number information regarding the number of substrates remaining in the third magazine.
The judgment unit
Based on the board number information of the second magazine and the first work information, the second magazine full time, which is the time when the second magazine is filled with the plurality of boards, is calculated.
Based on the second magazine full time and the transport time, the arrival time at which the second magazine filled with the plurality of substrates arrives at the loader is calculated.
Based on the number of boards information of the third magazine and the second work information, the empty time of the third magazine at which the number of boards remaining in the third magazine becomes 0 is calculated.
It is necessary to transport at least the first magazine from the unloader to the loader at the predetermined time by determining whether the empty time of the third magazine is earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine at the predetermined time. Judge if there is
The indicator
When the determination unit determines that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the second instruction signal is sent to the third device at a timing after the predetermined time. Output,
The transport management device according to claim 18. The judgment unit
When it is determined that the empty time of the third magazine is not earlier than the arrival time of the second magazine, the first magazine further filled with the plurality of substrates mounted on the unloader. Determine if the number of at least one magazine, including the magazine, is greater than or equal to the specified number.
The indicator
When the determination unit determines that the number of the at least one magazine is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the first instruction signal instructing the at least one magazine to be conveyed from the unloader to the loader is transmitted. Output to the third device,
The transport management device according to claim 19.

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