Features and Advantages of Auto Loading Feeders

Resupplying parts without splicing

Operators on SMT lines handle a wide variety of tasks. Among these, supplying parts to pick-and-place machines is the most demanding, accounting for more than 30% of the total workload. The timing of this work often overlaps with that of other tasks, and such concentrated workloads can cause supply delays and human errors, leading to production stoppages.

Auto Loading Feeders provide a next-generation parts replenishment method that solves the problems associated with parts resupply and helps improve OEE.

The operations required to set and feed parts have been greatly simplified.
All the operator needs to do is insert the carrier tape end into the feeder after processing it and press a button on the feeder. *1
The feeder loads the carrier tape automatically and even determines the initial pickup position.

*1: Use of the dedicated jig scissors is recommended for cutting the tape end.

This feeder resupplies parts without splicing.
Insert the end of the carrier tape from the replenishment reel into the feeder and place the reel in the holder to complete the resupply. *1
When the parts on the carrier tape in use run out, that carrier tape is ejected. The parts on the replenishment carrier tape are loaded to the pickup position and production continues.
Unlike splicing, the carrier tapes do not need to be joined together, so there is no need to worry about machine stoppages caused by weak joints such as gaps or misalignments between tapes.

*1: Use of the dedicated jig scissors is recommended for cutting the tape end.

Since parts can be replenished without splicing, replenishment part reels can be set at any time without considering parts usage status.
By distributing the timing of parts replenishment and balancing the workload, it is possible to prevent machine stoppages caused by supply delays.