Robin's smt Pick and Place build

[Robin Hewitt]

I've got a bit stuck working out the tape feeders, here's a whacky idea...

Remember that famous drill that cuts a square hole? I think I can use that idea to convert rotary to rectilinear motion. A conversion that can get complicated PDQ when you try to draw the mechanism.

The problem is advancing taped components. I want to drop a pin vertically into an index hole, move it forwards exactly 4mm then lift it vertically clear.

With one pin for all tapes, I can have lots of tapes because they can be closer together. The pin feeder mechanism moving with the gantry.

So, using the square drill idea, the plate holding the pin has 2 square holes in it. The holes fit over two oddly shaped shafts turning 2mm off centre. One rotation advances the tape 4mm.
Picture shows 18 degrees in 30 degree steps

[Robin Hewitt]

... shafts turning 2mm off centre...

Okay so I didn't quite understand the mysteries of the Reuleaux triangle but I do now.

My rounded out Reuleaux. without the pointy bits. looks okay but the centre doesn't move in any approximation of a circle

The centre of a true Reuleaux, constrained in a square, follows a sort of circle defined by the ends of 4 elipses. Mine looks like a finger painted flower

I can get true vertical/ horizontal motion if I fix the square and float everything else.

I have ordered gear wheels and lumps of brass, so I have until that arrives to simplify it.

[Colin Barron]

Hi,
are you still working on the project?
regards
Colin

[Robin Hewitt]

are you still working on the project?

I have 2 problems.

I have to switch PCB supplier and I cannot decide who.

I bought a 3D printer and I have a notion that it will make the component feeders simple if only I can figure it out.

[Stupoty]

I have 2 problems.

I have to switch PCB supplier and I cannot decide who.

I bought a 3D printer and I have a notion that it will make the component feeders simple if only I can figure it out.

If your still working away on this as a back burner thing this may give some inspiration :)
http://www.eevblog.com/2014/11/19/ee...-factory-tour/

Stuart