AXIAL-LEAD COMPONENT SEQUENCING AND INSERTING APPARATUS

摘要

The present invention involves a method and apparatus for feeding axial lead components directly from a sequencer to an insertion head, while eliminating direct supplying of components to the insert head via a prededicated inventory such as reeled tapes or films having components attached thereto in a predetermined sequence. Preferably, an endless chain conveyor carries the components to the insert head in chain clips which positively retain the leads thereof while allowing centering of the bodies and electrical function testing of the components just prior to insertion of the leads into corresponding holes of a circuit board. Direct supply from a sequencer having a series of individually and programmably controlled dispenser heads provides for quick and flexible variation of an input sequence without manual intervention.