pocket spacing

**Pocket spacing** is the **center-to-center distance between consecutive component pockets in carrier tape** - it defines feeder indexing step and pick timing synchronization. **What Is Pocket spacing?** - **Definition**: Pocket pitch is standardized by component class and tape format specifications. - **Machine Interface**: Feeder advance increments must match spacing exactly for proper pick position. - **Orientation Control**: Pocket geometry and spacing together maintain component alignment. - **Error Sensitivity**: Incorrect pitch interpretation causes no-pick or mispick events. **Why Pocket spacing Matters** - **Placement Yield**: Correct indexing is required for consistent nozzle pickup accuracy. - **Throughput**: Stable pocket stepping minimizes feeder retries and cycle interruptions. - **Automation Reliability**: Pitch mismatch can create repetitive line stoppage patterns. - **Traceability**: Pocket indexing consistency supports accurate component count and usage logging. - **Setup Robustness**: Pitch awareness is essential during new-part onboarding. **How It Is Used in Practice** - **Feeder Verification**: Confirm pitch settings during setup checklist execution. - **Pilot Run**: Perform short dry-run pickup validation before production release. - **Supplier Control**: Audit tape pocket dimensions and spacing compliance for critical parts. Pocket spacing is **a key indexing parameter for reliable feeder operation** - pocket spacing accuracy should be validated early because indexing errors can quickly propagate into line-wide defects.