Automatic snap ring force detection device and method
By integrating the ring transmission component with the detection component, the detection of clasp force is automated and continuous, solving the problems of low efficiency and poor accuracy in traditional detection methods, and improving production efficiency and quality management level.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511875842.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing methods for detecting clasp force are inefficient, have poor data accuracy and consistency, and cannot meet the high-throughput requirements of modern large-scale production lines. Furthermore, traditional testing equipment has an idle return time after the testing station is completed, which restricts the improvement of production cycle time.
By integrating a ring-shaped transmission component, a transmission fixture, and a detection component, the ring-shaped transmission component drives the cyclic transmission module. Combined with a high-precision force detection sensor and a control system, the entire process of locking is automated and the force value is accurately detected.
It achieves a high degree of automation and continuity in the testing process, improves testing efficiency and data accuracy, ensures the reliability and comparability of test results, and supports refined quality management and quality traceability.
Smart Images
Figure CN121347028A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of non-standard automation technology, and in particular to an automated clasp force detection device and method. Background Technology
[0002] For locking components, such as pipe fittings widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries, reliability is paramount. These locking mechanisms typically achieve their locking function through an internal retaining ring structure, and the retaining force of the retaining ring is one of the core indicators for measuring their performance and safety. Therefore, accurately measuring the retaining ring force during the manufacturing process is a crucial step in ensuring product quality.
[0003] Currently, in production practice, the detection of retaining ring force largely relies on traditional manual or semi-automatic methods. These methods typically have the following inherent drawbacks: First, they are inefficient, heavily dependent on the experience and skill of operators, making it difficult to meet the high-throughput requirements of modern large-scale production lines that demand full inspection. Second, due to unavoidable differences in the speed, angle, and stability of force application during manual operation, human error is easily introduced, making it difficult to guarantee the accuracy and consistency of the test data, and resulting in a lack of comparability between test results from different batches and different operators. Furthermore, traditional detection methods usually only provide a simple judgment of "qualified" or "unqualified," failing to accurately record and analyze the complete force curve during insertion and removal, thus making it difficult to deeply analyze the elastic properties, potential wear, and assembly process of the retaining ring and to trace its quality. In addition, some existing automated equipment may use a linear transmission layout, which results in idle return time after the operation at the inspection station, to some extent restricting further improvement in production cycle time, and there is still room for optimization in the positioning accuracy and repeatability of the workpiece. Summary of the Invention
[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides an automated clasp force testing device and method that achieves significant improvements in testing efficiency, data accuracy, and process controllability compared to traditional manual or semi-automatic testing methods through the synergistic integration of a ring transmission component, a transmission fixture, and a testing component.
[0005] The technical solution adopted in this invention is: an automated clasp force detection device, comprising a ring transmission assembly, a transmission fixture, and a detection assembly. The ring transmission assembly is provided with multiple circulating transmission modules, which circulate and transmit on the ring transmission assembly. The transmission fixture is disposed on the circulating transmission modules and has multiple fixing slots for fixing the clasps. The detection assembly includes a detection drive module, a detection transmission module, a force detection sensor, and a detection insertion shaft. The detection drive module is drivenly connected to the detection transmission module. The force detection sensor is disposed on the detection transmission module, and the detection insertion shaft is disposed on the force detection sensor. The ring transmission assembly drives the circulating transmission modules to move the transmission fixture through the detection assembly. The transmission fixture has fixing slots for fixing the clasps, and the clasps have clasp slots. The detection insertion shaft is inserted into the clasp slots to obtain force data for insertion and removal of the detection insertion shaft through the force detection sensor.
[0006] A further improvement to the above solution is that the annular transmission assembly includes a substrate, an annular track, a drive disk, a transmission belt, and a transmission drive module. The annular track is disposed on the substrate, the drive disk is disposed inside the annular track, the transmission belt is disposed on the drive disk, and the transmission drive module is used to connect to the drive disk and drive the drive disk to rotate, so that the transmission belt rotates accordingly. A drive connector is disposed on the transmission belt, and the circular transmission module is slidably disposed on the annular track. The circular transmission module is connected to the drive connector and, under the action of the transmission belt, drives the circular transmission module to slide on the annular track.
[0007] A further improvement to the above solution is that a transmission positioning module is provided on the substrate. The transmission positioning module includes a positioning mounting frame, a positioning drive cylinder, a positioning movable frame, and a positioning mating shaft. The positioning mounting frame is disposed on the substrate, and the positioning drive cylinder is provided with a hinged connector, which is hinged to the positioning mounting frame. The positioning movable frame is provided with a movable connecting shaft and a movable connecting member. The movable connecting member is disposed on the movable connecting shaft, and one end of the movable connecting member is hinged to the drive end of the positioning drive cylinder. The positioning mating shaft is disposed at the other end of the movable connecting member. A positioning groove is provided on the circulating transmission module, and the positioning mating shaft is used for positioning the groove to position the circulating transmission module on the annular track.
[0008] A further improvement to the above solution is that the circulating transmission module includes a pulley group, a transmission slider, a transmission connecting block, and a positioning pin. The transmission slider is slidably mounted on a circular track via the pulley group. The transmission connecting block is used to connect to the drive connector. The positioning pin is mounted on the transmission slider and is used to cooperate with the transmission fixture.
[0009] A further improvement to the above solution is that the transmission fixture includes a fixture base plate, a fixture fixing frame, and a locking fixing plate. The fixture fixing frame is disposed on the fixture base plate, and the fixture base plate is disposed on the circulating transmission module. The locking fixing plate is disposed at one end of the fixture fixing frame and is used to fix the locking buckle on the fixture fixing frame.
[0010] A further improvement to the above solution is that the fixture fixing frame includes a placement plate, a tail fixing plate, and a test pressure plate. The placement plate and the tail fixing plate are respectively disposed on both sides of the fixture base plate, and the test pressure plate is disposed between the placement plate and the tail fixing plate. The placement plate is provided with a placement fixing groove, and the tail fixing plate is provided with a tail support groove and a test clearance groove. The tail support groove is used to fix the pin of the lock. The test pressure plate is provided with a positioning block, which is used to restrict the lock within the placement fixing groove to prevent the lock from shifting when the test insertion shaft is pulled out.
[0011] A further improvement to the above solution is that the detection transmission module includes a transmission base, a transmission guide rail, a transmission screw, and a transmission connecting seat. The detection drive module is a drive motor, which is disposed on one side of the transmission base and drivenly connected to the transmission screw. The transmission guide rail is disposed on the transmission base, and the transmission connecting seat is disposed on the transmission base and connected to the transmission screw. The drive motor is used to drive the transmission screw to move the transmission connecting seat along the transmission guide rail. The force detection sensor is disposed on the transmission connecting seat.
[0012] A further improvement to the above scheme is that the force detection sensor has a cylindrical structure, one end of the force detection sensor is provided with a connecting sleeve, and one end of the detection insertion shaft is located inside the connecting sleeve.
[0013] A method for testing the clasp force based on an automated clasp force testing device, executed by a control system that is communicatively connected to the testing device, specifically includes the following steps: Step S1: Control the detection drive module to drive the detection insertion shaft to perform no-load reciprocating motion, read the baseline reading of the force detection sensor and perform zero-point calibration; at the same time, control the operation of the ring transmission component, and perform precise positioning and calibration of the ring transmission module through the transmission positioning module. In step S2, the operator or the automatic feeding device loads the buckle to be tested into the fixed slot of the transfer fixture; the vision recognition module of the control system captures the buckle image, identifies its model, orientation and snap ring slot position, and binds the information to the ID of the transfer fixture. In step S3, the ring-shaped transmission component operates according to a preset rhythm, transporting the transmission fixture loaded with the lock to be tested to the testing station; the transmission positioning module is activated, driving the positioning mating shaft to insert into the positioning groove of the ring-shaped transmission module, thereby achieving precise positioning and locking of the fixture at the testing station. Step S4: The control system controls the detection drive module to work, and drives the transmission connecting seat with the force detection sensor and the detection insertion shaft to move along the transmission guide rail through the detection transmission module, executing the following sub-steps: Step S4.1: Control the detection insertion shaft to be inserted vertically into the locking ring groove of the buckle at a constant speed, and simultaneously record the reading of the force detection sensor. The maximum peak force during the insertion process is the insertion force. Step S4.2: After the insertion shaft reaches the preset depth, hold it briefly to ensure full contact with the retaining ring groove; Step S4.3: Control the detection insertion shaft to be pulled out of the retaining ring groove at the same or another constant speed, and simultaneously record the reading of the force detection sensor. The maximum peak force during the pulling process is the pulling force. Step S5: The integrated control system collects and stores force-displacement curve data of the insertion and extraction processes in real time; the data processing module automatically extracts the values of insertion force and extraction force from the curves. Step S6: Compare the extracted insertion force and pull-out force with the preset qualified force value range of the buckle; the integrated control system generates instructions based on the judgment result to control the subsequent sorting mechanism to sort the tested buckles into the "qualified", "unqualified" or different force value levels area. In step S7, all test data, including latch ID, test time, force-displacement curve, insertion force, pull-out force, and judgment result, are stored in the database; the system can generate statistical process control charts and test reports by batch, time, or model.
[0014] A further improvement to the above solution is that the control system controls the moving speed of the detection insertion shaft by controlling the servo motor of the detection drive module. The insertion and withdrawal speeds can be steplessly set within the range of 1~100mm / min to meet the requirements of different test standards.
[0015] A further improvement to the above scheme is that the data processing module also performs the following calculations: The ratio of insertion force to extraction force is calculated as an indicator for evaluating the self-locking performance of the retaining ring. Statistical analysis was performed on the force values from multiple tests to calculate the mean, standard deviation, and process capability index.
[0016] A further improvement to the above scheme is that the control system has an adaptive testing function: for the first test or an unknown model of the latch, an exploratory test is first conducted with a lower force limit value, and the parameters of subsequent tests are automatically adjusted according to the measured force range, and the parameters of the model are learned and recorded in the database.
[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are: Compared to existing lock and snap ring force testing methods, this invention achieves significant improvements in testing efficiency, data accuracy, and process controllability through the synergistic integration of a ring-shaped transmission component, a transmission fixture, and a detection component, compared to traditional manual or semi-automatic testing methods. It realizes a high degree of automation and continuity in the testing process. The device drives multiple circulating transmission modules through the ring-shaped transmission component, enabling the transmission fixture carrying the locks to continuously and cyclically pass through the testing station. Combined with the automatic execution capability of the detection component, it achieves fully unmanned operation from lock loading, positioning, testing, and unloading. The assembly line-style operation mode completely eliminates the reliance on manual operation in traditional testing, significantly increasing the testing throughput per unit time. It is particularly suitable for the full inspection requirements in large-scale production scenarios, improving production efficiency. It ensures the accuracy and consistency of the testing data. The device uses a high-precision force sensor to directly measure the force changes during the insertion and removal of the detection insertion shaft from the snap ring groove, eliminating measurement deviations introduced by inconsistent force and speed during human operation. The entire testing process is precisely controlled by a mechanical structure, with extremely high repeatability, ensuring that the conditions for each test are exactly the same, thus guaranteeing the reliability and comparability of the test results. This invention, through a force detection sensor, can determine whether the locking clasp force is qualified, and can accurately record the magnitude of the insertion and extraction forces, as well as the complete force-displacement curve. This facilitates in-depth analysis of the clasp's elastic properties, wear state, and assembly characteristics, enabling in-depth monitoring of product quality. Simultaneously, all test data can be automatically recorded and associated with specific products, establishing a complete quality archive, greatly facilitating subsequent quality traceability and statistical analysis, and promoting the transformation of quality management from result control to process prevention. Through its automated, high-precision, and data-driven design, this invention effectively overcomes the limitations of traditional testing methods, demonstrating significant technical advantages in improving testing efficiency, ensuring product quality consistency, and achieving refined quality management.
[0018] The snap ring force testing method based on an automated snap ring force testing device is executed by a control system that is communicatively connected to the testing device. This method fundamentally eliminates the interference of equipment system errors and environmental fluctuations on the test results through a systematic zero-point calibration and positioning calibration mechanism. The no-load baseline calibration and transmission positioning calibration performed in step S1 ensure that each test is conducted under a unified mechanical reference. Combined with the automatic identification and binding of the snap ring model and position by the visual recognition module in step S2, model confusion and positioning deviations that may occur during manual identification are effectively avoided, ensuring accurate matching between the test object and the test parameters. In step S4, the insertion and withdrawal actions of the detection insertion shaft are strictly controlled to perform insertion and withdrawal actions at a constant speed, and the force-displacement curve is recorded synchronously throughout the process, ensuring completely consistent test conditions and eliminating random errors introduced by uneven human operation force and rhythm. The resulting insertion and withdrawal force data have extremely high repeatability and comparability. The automated data extraction and judgment in steps S5 and S6 not only achieve rapid and objective qualification judgment but also support sorting based on precise force value levels, meeting the management needs of refined quality grading. Step S7 associates and stores all test data (including raw curves and judgment results) with information such as latch ID and timestamps, and can automatically generate Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts and test reports. This provides strong data support for real-time monitoring of the production process, quality trend analysis, process parameter optimization, and product lifecycle traceability, significantly improving the depth and intelligence of quality control. This invention, through an automated, standardized, and data-driven testing process, ensures testing accuracy and efficiency while achieving a transformation and upgrade in quality control from "result inspection" to "process prevention" and "data-driven" approaches, demonstrating outstanding industrial application value. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the automated clasp force detection device of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the automated clasp force detection device from another perspective; Figure 3 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the automated clasp force detection device from another perspective; Figure 4 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of part of the automated clasp force detection device; Figure 5 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of part of the automated clasp force detection device; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the clasp force testing method of the present invention.
[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: Annular transmission assembly 1, base plate 11, positioning mounting bracket 111, positioning drive cylinder 112, positioning movable bracket 113, movable connecting shaft 1131, movable connector 1132, positioning mating shaft 114, hinge connector 115, annular track 12, drive disk 13, transmission belt 14, drive connector 141, transmission drive module 15, transmission fixture 2, fixture base plate 21, fixture fixing bracket 22, placement plate 221, placement fixing groove 2211, tail fixing plate 222 1. Tail support groove 2221, test clearance groove 2222, test pressure plate 223, positioning pressure block 2231, locking fixing plate 23, detection component 3, detection drive module 31, detection transmission module 32, transmission base 321, transmission guide rail 322, transmission screw 323, transmission connecting seat 324, force detection sensor 33, connecting sleeve 331, detection insertion shaft 34, circulating transmission module 4, positioning groove 41, pulley group 42, transmission slider 43, transmission connecting block 44, positioning pin 45. Detailed Implementation
[0021] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, a more complete description will be given below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a thorough and complete understanding of the disclosure of the invention.
[0022] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly attached to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component.
[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Figures 1-5As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, an automated clasp force detection device is disclosed, comprising a ring transmission assembly 1, a transmission fixture 2, and a detection assembly 3. The ring transmission assembly 1 is provided with multiple circulating transmission modules 4, which circulate and transmit data on the ring transmission assembly 1. The transmission fixture 2 is disposed on the circulating transmission modules 4 and is provided with multiple fixing slots for fixing the clasp. The detection assembly 3 includes a detection drive module 31, a detection transmission module 32, a force detection sensor 33, and a detection insertion shaft. 34. The detection drive module 31 is driven and connected to the detection transmission module 32. The force detection sensor 33 is mounted on the detection transmission module 32, and the detection insertion shaft 34 is mounted on the force detection sensor 33. The annular transmission assembly 1 drives the circular transmission module 4 to move the transmission fixture 2 through the detection assembly 3. The transmission fixture 2 is provided with a fixing groove for fixing the latch, and the latch is provided with a retaining ring groove. The detection insertion shaft 34 is inserted into the retaining ring groove so that the force data of the insertion and withdrawal of the detection insertion shaft 34 can be obtained by the force detection sensor 33. This embodiment, through the synergistic integration of the annular transmission assembly 1, the transmission fixture 2, and the detection assembly 3, achieves significant progress in detection efficiency, data accuracy, and process controllability compared to traditional manual or semi-automatic detection methods. It realizes a high degree of automation and continuity of the detection process. The device drives multiple circulating transmission modules 4 through a ring transmission component 1, enabling the transmission fixture 2 carrying the latches to continuously and cyclically pass through the inspection station. Combined with the automatic execution capability of the inspection component 3, it achieves fully unmanned operation from latch loading, positioning, inspection to unloading. This assembly line-style operation mode completely eliminates the reliance on manual operation in traditional inspections, significantly increasing the inspection throughput per unit time. It is particularly suitable for the full inspection requirements in large-scale production scenarios, improving production efficiency. It ensures the accuracy and consistency of inspection data. The device uses a high-precision force sensor 33 to directly measure the force changes during the insertion and removal of the insertion shaft 34 from the retaining ring groove, eliminating measurement deviations introduced by inconsistent force and speed during human operation. The entire inspection process is precisely controlled by the mechanical structure, with extremely high repeatability, ensuring that the conditions for each inspection are exactly the same, thereby guaranteeing the reliability and comparability of the inspection results. In this embodiment, the force sensor 33 can determine whether the latch retaining ring force is qualified, and can more accurately record the magnitude of the insertion and removal forces, and even the complete force-displacement curve. This facilitates in-depth analysis of the elastic properties, wear condition, and assembly characteristics of retaining rings, enabling comprehensive monitoring of product quality. Simultaneously, all test data can be automatically recorded and associated with specific products, establishing a complete quality profile. This greatly facilitates subsequent quality traceability and statistical analysis, driving the transformation of quality management from outcome control to process prevention.This embodiment, through its automated, high-precision, and data-driven design, effectively overcomes the limitations of traditional testing methods, demonstrating significant technical advantages in improving testing efficiency, ensuring product quality consistency, and achieving refined quality management.
[0024] The annular transmission assembly 1 includes a substrate 11, an annular track 12, a drive disk 13, a conveyor belt 14, and a transmission drive module 15. The annular track 12 is disposed on the substrate 11, the drive disk 13 is disposed inside the annular track 12, and the conveyor belt 14 is disposed on the drive disk 13. The transmission drive module 15 is used to connect to the drive disk 13 and to drive the drive disk 13 to rotate, causing the conveyor belt 14 to rotate accordingly. A drive connector 141 is disposed on the conveyor belt 14. The circular transmission module 4 is slidably disposed on the annular track 12 and is connected to the drive connector 141. Under the action of the conveyor belt 14, the circular transmission module 4 is driven to slide on the annular track 12. The annular transmission assembly 1 provided in this embodiment, through the coordinated cooperation of the substrate 11, the annular track 12, the drive disk 13, the conveyor belt 14, and the transmission drive module 15, constructs a closed-loop transmission system. Specifically, the transmission drive module 15 drives the drive disk 13 to rotate, thereby causing the conveyor belt 14 surrounding it to perform a precise circular motion. The drive connector 141 fixed on the conveyor belt 14 reliably transmits power to the circulating transmission module 4, driving it to slide smoothly along the preset circular track 12. This achieves seamless connection and continuous circulation between different stations such as loading / unloading and testing, completely eliminating the idle return time of the traditional linear conveyor belt 14, and raising the production cycle and testing efficiency of the equipment to a new level. Secondly, the circular track 12 provides rigid motion constraints for the circulating transmission module 4, ensuring that each ring is accurately positioned and has a stable posture during circulation, effectively avoiding possible offset or vibration under high-speed operation, and providing a fundamental guarantee for the repeatability accuracy of subsequent force detection actions.
[0025] A transmission positioning module is provided on the substrate 11. The transmission positioning module includes a positioning mounting frame 111, a positioning drive cylinder 112, a positioning movable frame 113, and a positioning mating shaft 114. The positioning mounting frame 111 is disposed on the substrate 11. The positioning drive cylinder 112 is provided with a hinged connector 115, and the positioning drive cylinder 112 is hinged to the positioning mounting frame 111 through the hinged connector 115. The positioning movable frame 113 is provided with a movable connecting shaft 1131 and a movable connecting member 1132. The movable connecting member 1132 is disposed on the movable connecting shaft 1131, and one end of the movable connecting member 1132 is hinged to the driving end of the positioning drive cylinder 112. The positioning mating shaft 114 is disposed at the other end of the movable connecting member 1132. A positioning groove 41 is provided on the circulating transmission module 4. The positioning mating shaft 114 is used to position the positioning groove 41 to position the circulating transmission module 4 on the annular track 12. The transmission positioning module provided in this embodiment achieves precise and reliable positioning of the cyclic transmission module 4 on the annular track 12 through the coordinated action of the positioning drive cylinder 112, the positioning movable frame 113, and the positioning mating shaft 114. Specifically, the positioning drive cylinder 112 is hinged to the positioning mounting frame 111 via the hinged connector 115, ensuring automatic adjustment of the driving force direction and avoiding motion interference; the positioning movable frame 113 forms a floating connection structure through the movable connecting shaft 1131 and the movable connecting piece 1132, enabling the positioning mating shaft 114 to accurately insert into or disengage from the positioning groove 41 on the cyclic transmission module 4 under the action of the drive cylinder. At the critical station of the snap ring force test, this module can quickly and accurately lock the cyclic transmission module 4 carrying the workpiece in a predetermined position, effectively eliminating the small displacement caused by transmission inertia or external vibration, providing an extremely stable test benchmark for the force sensor and loading mechanism, and ensuring the consistency of test conditions and the repeatability accuracy of test data for each test. Secondly, its unique floating connection structure has a certain self-adaptive compensation capability, which can tolerate minor assembly errors or thermal deformation, ensuring smooth and reliable positioning actions and avoiding damage to the equipment caused by rigid impacts.
[0026] The circulating transmission module 4 includes a pulley block 42, a transmission slider 43, a transmission connecting block 44, and a positioning pin 45. The transmission slider 43 is slidably mounted on the annular track 12 via the pulley block 42. The transmission connecting block 44 is used to connect to the drive connector 141. The positioning pin 45 is mounted on the transmission slider 43 and is used to cooperate with the transmission fixture 2. In this embodiment, through the coordinated design of the pulley block 42, the transmission slider 43, the transmission connecting block 44, and the positioning pin 45, an efficient, stable, and precise workstation transmission and positioning system is constructed. Specifically, the transmission slider 43 forms a low-friction, high-precision sliding pair with the annular track 12 via the pulley block 42, ensuring the stability and low wear of the module during high-speed circulating operation. The transmission connecting block 44 serves as a power interface, reliably connecting to the drive connector 141 on the transmission belt 14, realizing effective power transmission. The positioning pin 45 mounted on the transmission slider 43 provides a precise installation and positioning reference for the transmission fixture 2 that carries the retaining ring. The cooperation between the pulley block 42 and the circular track 12 greatly reduces running resistance, making the entire transmission system run smoothly, with low noise and low energy consumption, and able to adapt to the needs of continuous production at high speeds for extended periods. Secondly, the modular design allows the transmission slider 43 and the transmission fixture 2 to achieve quick and precise docking and separation via the positioning pin 45, greatly facilitating fixture replacement and maintenance, and improving the equipment's adaptability to different types of retainers and production flexibility. More importantly, the positioning pin 45 provides precise circumferential and radial constraints for the transmission fixture 2, fundamentally ensuring that the retainer's spatial position relative to the force sensor and loading mechanism is highly repeatable when it is transferred to the testing station.
[0027] The transfer fixture 2 includes a fixture base plate 21, a fixture fixing frame 22, and a latch fixing plate 23. The fixture fixing frame 22 is mounted on the fixture base plate 21, which is mounted on the circulating transfer module 4. The latch fixing plate 23 is located at one end of the fixture fixing frame 22 and is used to fix the latch to the fixture fixing frame 22. In this embodiment, through the modular structural design of the fixture base plate 21, fixture fixing frame 22, and latch fixing plate 23, a latch bearing and fixing unit with a dedicated function and precise positioning is constructed. Specifically, the fixture base plate 21 serves as the installation foundation, enabling quick and precise docking with the circulating transfer module 4; the fixture fixing frame 22 constitutes the main support structure of the latch; and the latch fixing plate 23, located at one end, is used to reliably constrain the latch to be tested in a predetermined posture and position. By ensuring that the spatial positions of the force-bearing points and constraint points of each latch remain consistent relative to the detection probe after being installed in the fixture, the test errors caused by inconsistent clamping are fundamentally eliminated, providing a core guarantee for the accuracy and repeatability of force test data. Secondly, the modular design allows the fixture to be quickly installed and disassembled as a whole on the circulating transmission module 4, greatly simplifying loading and unloading operations and facilitating the rapid replacement of matching special fixtures for different latch models, thereby significantly improving the adaptability and production flexibility of the entire testing device.
[0028] The fixture fixing frame 22 includes a placement plate 221, a tail fixing plate 222, and a test pressure plate 223. The placement plate 221 and the tail fixing plate 222 are respectively disposed on both sides of the fixture base plate 21, and the test pressure plate 223 is disposed between the placement plate 221 and the tail fixing plate 222. The placement plate 221 is provided with a placement fixing groove 2211, and the tail fixing plate 222 is provided with a tail support groove 2221 and a test clearance groove 2222. The tail support groove 2221 is used to fix the pin of the latch, and the test pressure plate 223 is provided with a positioning block 2231. The positioning block 2231 is used to restrict the latch within the placement fixing groove 2211 to prevent the latch from shifting when the detection insertion shaft 34 is pulled out. In this embodiment, through the coordinated layout of the placement plate 221, the tail fixing plate 222, and the test pressure plate 223, a dedicated clamping mechanism for multi-point constraint and precise positioning of the latch is constructed. Specifically, the placement plate 221 supports the latch body via its placement fixing groove 2211; the tail fixing plate 222 uses its tail support groove 2221 to limit the latch pins and provides operating space for testing via the test clearance groove 2222; and the test pressure plate 223, located between the two, uses its positioning pressure block 2231 to stably press the latch into the placement fixing groove 2211 from above. The three-point positioning and clamping system formed by the placement fixing groove 2211, the tail support groove 2221, and the positioning pressure block 2231 provides comprehensive and stable spatial constraint on the latch. This constraint not only ensures that the latch will not shift or loosen during high-speed transmission, but more importantly, in the subsequent critical process of snap ring force testing, when the insertion shaft is subjected to a pull-out force, this structure can effectively resist and offset the reaction force and torque generated by the pull-out force on the latch body, resolutely preventing any form of tilting, sliding, or deflection of the latch within the fixture. This fundamentally ensures that the force axis of the insertion shaft and the constraint state of the locking buckle remain strictly consistent during each test, providing a crucial prerequisite for the force sensor to collect real, accurate, and repeatable clasp retaining force data, and greatly improving the testing accuracy and reliability of the entire testing device.
[0029] The detection transmission module 32 includes a transmission base 321, a transmission guide rail 322, a transmission screw 323, and a transmission connecting seat 324. The detection drive module 31 is a drive motor, which is disposed on one side of the transmission base 321 and is drivenly connected to the transmission screw 323. The transmission guide rail 322 is disposed on the transmission base 321, and the transmission connecting seat 324 is disposed on the transmission base 321 and connected to the transmission screw 323. The drive motor is used to drive the transmission screw 323 to drive the transmission connecting seat 324 to slide along the transmission guide rail 322. The force detection sensor 33 is disposed on the transmission connecting seat 324. Specifically, the force detection sensor 33 has a cylindrical structure, and one end of the force detection sensor 33 is provided with a connecting sleeve 331. One end of the detection insertion shaft 34 is disposed inside the connecting sleeve 331. In this embodiment, a high-precision and high-stability linear feed system is constructed through the precise cooperation of the transmission base 321, the transmission guide rail 322, the transmission screw 323, the transmission connecting seat 324, and the drive motor. Specifically, the drive motor converts rotational motion into precise linear displacement of the transmission connecting seat 324 via the transmission screw 323, while the transmission guide rail 322 provides reliable guidance and support for this movement. The screw drive combined with high-precision guide rail ensures that the transmission connecting seat 324 and the force sensor 33 mounted on it can achieve smooth, non-slip linear reciprocating motion. Its feed position control is precise, and its repeatability is high, providing a reliable motion reference for the detection process. Secondly, the cylindrical force sensor 33 is coaxially connected to the detection insertion shaft 34 via a connecting sleeve 331 at one end. This structure not only achieves a compact and rigid connection between the sensor and the actuator, effectively reducing interference from additional bending moments and lateral forces, but more importantly, it ensures that the force axis of the detection insertion shaft 34 is highly coincident with the sensitive axis of the force sensor 33.
[0030] See Figures 1-6 As shown, a method for testing the clasp force based on an automated clasp force testing device is executed by a control system, which is communicatively connected to the testing device. The method specifically includes the following steps: Step S1: Control the detection drive module 31 to drive the detection insertion shaft 34 to perform no-load reciprocating motion, read the baseline reading of the force detection sensor 33 and perform zero-point calibration; at the same time, control the operation of the ring transmission component 1 to perform precise positioning and calibration of the ring transmission module 4 through the transmission positioning module. In step S2, the operator or the automatic feeding device loads the lock to be tested into the fixed slot of the transfer fixture 2; the vision recognition module of the control system captures the image of the lock, identifies its model, orientation and the position of the retaining ring slot, and binds the information to the ID of the transfer fixture 2. In step S3, the ring transmission assembly 1 operates according to a preset rhythm, transporting the transmission fixture 2 loaded with the lock to be tested to the testing station; the transmission positioning module is activated, driving the positioning mating shaft 114 to insert into the positioning groove 41 of the ring transmission module 4, so as to achieve precise positioning and locking of the fixture at the testing station. Step S4: The control system controls the detection drive module 31 to work, and drives the transmission connecting seat 324, which is equipped with the force detection sensor 33 and the detection insertion shaft 34, to move along the transmission guide rail 322 through the detection transmission module 32, executing the following sub-steps: Step S4.1: Control the insertion shaft 34 to be inserted vertically into the locking ring groove at a constant speed, and simultaneously record the reading of the force detection sensor 33. The maximum peak force during the insertion process is the insertion force. Step S4.2: After the insertion shaft 34 reaches the preset depth, hold it briefly to ensure full contact with the retaining ring groove; Step S4.3: Control the detection insertion shaft 34 to be pulled out of the retaining ring groove at the same or another constant speed, and simultaneously record the reading of the force detection sensor 33. The maximum peak force during the pulling process is the pulling force. Step S5: The integrated control system collects and stores force-displacement curve data of the insertion and extraction processes in real time; the data processing module automatically extracts the values of insertion force and extraction force from the curves. Step S6: Compare the extracted insertion force and pull-out force with the preset qualified force value range of the buckle; the integrated control system generates instructions based on the judgment result to control the subsequent sorting mechanism to sort the tested buckles into the "qualified", "unqualified" or different force value levels area. In step S7, all test data, including latch ID, test time, force-displacement curve, insertion force, pull-out force, and judgment result, are stored in the database; the system can generate statistical process control charts and test reports by batch, time, or model.
[0031] This embodiment fundamentally eliminates the interference of equipment system errors and environmental fluctuations on test results through a systematic zero-point calibration and positioning calibration mechanism. The no-load baseline calibration and transmission positioning calibration performed in step S1 ensure that each test is conducted under a unified mechanical reference. Combined with the automatic identification and binding of the latch model and position by the visual recognition module in step S2, model confusion and positioning deviations that may occur during manual identification are effectively avoided, ensuring accurate matching between the test object and the test parameters. In step S4, the insertion shaft 34 is strictly controlled to perform insertion and withdrawal actions at a constant speed, and the force-displacement curve is recorded synchronously throughout the process, ensuring completely consistent test conditions and eliminating random errors introduced by uneven human operation force and rhythm. The resulting insertion and withdrawal force data have extremely high repeatability and comparability. The automated data extraction and judgment in steps S5 and S6 not only achieve rapid and objective qualification judgment but also support sorting based on precise force value levels, meeting the management needs of refined quality grading. Step S7 associates and stores all test data (including raw curves and judgment results) with information such as latch ID and timestamps, and can automatically generate Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts and test reports. This provides strong data support for real-time monitoring of the production process, quality trend analysis, process parameter optimization, and product lifecycle traceability, significantly improving the depth and intelligence of quality control. This invention, through an automated, standardized, and data-driven testing process, ensures testing accuracy and efficiency while achieving a transformation and upgrade in quality control from "result inspection" to "process prevention" and "data-driven" approaches, demonstrating outstanding industrial application value.
[0032] The control system controls the servo motor of the detection drive module 31 to control the movement speed of the detection insertion shaft 34. The insertion and withdrawal speeds can be steplessly set within the range of 1~100mm / min to meet the requirements of different testing standards. In this embodiment, by introducing a servo motor to precisely control the movement speed of the detection insertion shaft 34 in the testing method, a key technological breakthrough and significant technical effect have been achieved. Specifically, the control system can steplessly set the insertion and withdrawal speeds within the range of 1~100mm / min, enabling the testing process to accurately simulate the actual assembly and separation conditions of the latches under different application scenarios, thereby ensuring that the measured clasp force data has high working condition relevance and practical reference value. Unlike traditional fixed-speed or roughly graded testing methods, the stepless speed regulation capability of this invention gives the testing method extremely strong adaptability and flexibility. Users can precisely set the optimal testing speed according to the model specifications, material characteristics, or specific industry testing standards (such as low-speed testing for precision electronic latches or high-speed testing for heavy machinery latches). It avoids measurement deviations caused by speed mismatch, and can reveal the mechanical properties of the circlip under different dynamic conditions, providing more comprehensive and accurate data support for product design and quality assessment, and greatly improving the scientific nature and applicability of the test method.
[0033] The data processing module also performs the following calculations: The ratio of insertion force to pull-out force is calculated as an indicator to evaluate the self-locking performance of the retaining ring. This embodiment introduces the calculation of the insertion force to pull-out force ratio and statistical analysis of force values into the data processing module, transforming a single force value into a key indicator for evaluating the self-locking performance of the retaining ring. The ratio directly reflects the balance between the retaining ring's retention capacity and the ease of unlocking after assembly, providing a new quantitative basis for judging the rationality and reliability of its design. This surpasses the traditional model of judging solely based on whether a single force value is qualified, achieving a deep evaluation of the product's core functional characteristics.
[0034] Statistical analysis is performed on the force values from multiple tests to calculate the mean, standard deviation, and process capability index. This embodiment uses statistical analysis of multiple test data to calculate the mean, standard deviation, and process capability index (such as Cpk), marking a shift in quality control from "single-point judgment" to "process monitoring." The mean and standard deviation can reveal the central tendency and fluctuations in the production process, while the process capability index scientifically quantifies the production process's ability to meet quality standards.
[0035] The control system features adaptive testing capabilities: for first-time testing or unknown model latches, an exploratory test is first performed with a lower force limit. Based on the measured force range, the parameters for subsequent tests are automatically adjusted, and the system learns and records the model's parameters in a database. This embodiment enhances the intelligence of the testing process and the equipment's self-learning ability by introducing adaptive testing. When facing a latch for the first time or an unknown model, the control system first performs an exploratory test with a lower preset force limit. This effectively avoids irreversible overload damage to the precision latch or test fixture due to improper parameter settings, ensuring the safety of the testing process. After obtaining the initial force range, the system automatically analyzes the data and intelligently optimizes and sets key parameters for subsequent formal tests (such as test speed, maximum stroke, or force limit), thereby ensuring that the test conditions precisely match the latch's actual mechanical characteristics and improving the accuracy and reliability of the measurement results.
[0036] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. An automated clasp force detection device, characterized by: The utility model provides a lock buckle detection device, including annular transmission component, transmission fixture and detection component, the annular transmission component is provided with a plurality of circulating transmission module, a plurality of circulating transmission module circulates transmission on annular transmission component, transmission fixture sets up on circulating transmission module, transmission fixture is provided with a plurality of fixed slot for fixed lock catch on, the detection component includes detection drive module, detection transmission module, force detection sensor and detection insertion shaft, detection drive module is connected with detection transmission module drive, force detection sensor sets up on detection transmission module, detection insertion shaft sets up on force detection sensor, the annular transmission component is used for driving circulating transmission module to drive transmission fixture to pass through detection component, transmission fixture is provided with the fixed slot for fixed lock catch, lock catch is provided with snap ring groove, detection insertion shaft is used for inserting to snap ring groove to obtain the force data of detection insertion shaft insertion and pulling out through force detection sensor.
2. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 1, wherein: The annular transmission component includes a substrate, an annular track, a drive disc, a transmission belt, and a transmission drive module. The annular track is disposed on the substrate. The drive disc is disposed on the inner side of the annular track. The transmission belt is disposed on the drive disc. The transmission drive module is used to connect the drive disc and rotate the drive disc, so that the transmission belt follows the rotation. The transmission belt is provided with a driving connection piece. The circulating transmission module is slidingly disposed on the annular track. The circulating transmission module is connected with the driving connection piece and slidingly driven on the annular track by the transmission belt.
3. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 2, wherein: The substrate is provided with a transmission positioning module. The transmission positioning module includes a positioning mounting frame, a positioning drive cylinder, a positioning movable frame, and a positioning matching shaft. The positioning mounting frame is disposed on the substrate. The positioning drive cylinder is provided with a hinged connection piece. The positioning drive cylinder is hinged to the positioning mounting frame through the hinged connection piece. The positioning movable frame is provided with a movable connection shaft and a movable connection piece. The movable connection piece is disposed on the movable connection shaft. One end of the movable connection piece is hinged to the drive end of the positioning drive cylinder. The positioning matching shaft is disposed on the other end of the movable connection piece. The circulating transmission module is provided with a positioning groove. The positioning matching shaft is used for positioning the positioning groove to position the circulating transmission module on the annular track.
4. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 3, wherein: The circulating transmission module includes a pulley block, a transmission slider, a transmission connecting block, and a positioning pin. The transmission slider is slidingly disposed on the annular track through the pulley block. The transmission connecting block is used to connect the driving connection piece. The positioning pin is disposed on the transmission slider and used to cooperate with the transmission fixture.
5. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 1, wherein: The transmission fixture includes a fixture bottom plate, a fixture fixing frame, and a lock catch fixing plate. The fixture fixing frame is disposed on the fixture bottom plate. The fixture bottom plate is disposed on the circulating transmission module. The lock catch fixing plate is disposed on one end of the fixture fixing frame and used to fix the lock catch on the fixture fixing frame.
6. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 5, wherein: The jig fixing frame comprises a placing plate, a tail fixing plate and a test pressing plate, the placing plate and the tail fixing plate are respectively arranged on both sides of the jig bottom plate, and the test pressing plate is arranged between the placing plate and the tail fixing plate; the placing plate is provided with a placing fixing groove, the tail fixing plate is provided with a tail supporting groove and a test avoidance groove, the tail supporting groove is used for fixing the inserted pin of the lock catch, the test pressing plate is provided with a positioning pressing block, the positioning pressing block is used for limiting the lock catch in the placing fixing groove, and the lock catch is prevented from being displaced when the inserted pin is pulled out.
7. The automated clasp force detection device of claim 1, wherein: The detection transmission module comprises a transmission base, a transmission guide rail, a transmission screw and a transmission connecting seat, the detection drive module is a drive motor, is arranged on one side of the transmission base, is in driving connection with the transmission screw, the transmission guide rail is arranged on the transmission base, and the transmission connecting seat is arranged on the transmission base and is connected with the transmission screw; the drive motor is used for driving the transmission screw to drive the transmission connecting seat to slide along the transmission guide rail; and the force detection sensor is arranged on the transmission connecting seat. The force detection sensor is in a cylindrical structure, one end of the force detection sensor is provided with a connecting sleeve, and one end of the detection inserted shaft is arranged in the connecting sleeve.
8. A method for testing the force of a clasp based on the automatic clasp force testing device according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that: The control system is in communication connection with the detection device, and specifically comprises the following steps: Step S1, the detection drive module is controlled to drive the detection inserted shaft to perform idle reciprocating motion, the baseline reading of the force detection sensor is read, and zero point calibration is performed; meanwhile, the annular transmission assembly is controlled to run, and the circulating transmission module is accurately positioned and calibrated through the transmission positioning module; Step S2, an operator or an automatic feeding device loads the lock catch to be detected into the fixing groove of the transmission jig; the visual identification module of the control system captures the lock catch image, identifies the model, direction and clasp groove position of the lock catch, and binds the information to the ID of the transmission jig; Step S3, the annular transmission assembly runs at a preset beat, and the transmission jig loaded with the lock catch to be detected is conveyed to the detection station; the transmission positioning module acts, the positioning matching shaft is inserted into the positioning groove of the circulating transmission module, and accurate positioning and locking of the jig at the detection station are realized; Step S4, the control system controls the detection drive module to work, the transmission connecting seat provided with the force detection sensor and the detection inserted shaft is driven to move along the transmission guide rail through the detection transmission module, and the following substeps are executed: Step S4.1, the detection inserted shaft is controlled to be vertically inserted into the clasp groove of the lock catch at a constant speed, the reading of the force detection sensor is recorded synchronously, and the maximum peak force in the insertion process is obtained, that is, the insertion force; Step S4.2, the detection inserted shaft is kept for a short time after reaching the preset depth, so that the detection inserted shaft is ensured to be in full contact with the clasp groove; Step S4.3, the detection inserted shaft is controlled to be pulled out from the clasp groove at the same or another constant speed, the reading of the force detection sensor is recorded synchronously, and the maximum peak force in the pulling-out process is obtained, that is, the pulling-out force; Step S5, the integrated control system collects and stores the force displacement curve data in the insertion and pulling-out processes in real time; and the data processing module automatically extracts the values of the insertion force and the pulling-out force from the curve. Step S6, compare the extracted insertion force and extraction force with the pre-set qualified force value range of the lock catch; the integrated control system generates an instruction to control the subsequent sorting mechanism to sort the tested lock catch to the "qualified", "unqualified" or different force value level area according to the determination result; Step S7, all test data, including lock catch ID, test time, force displacement curve, insertion force, extraction force and determination result, are stored in the database; the system can generate statistical process control charts and test reports according to batch, time or model.
9. The snap ring force testing method of claim 8, wherein: The control system controls the movement speed of the detection insertion shaft by controlling the servo motor of the detection driving module; the insertion and extraction speed can be steplessly set in the range of 1-100 mm / min to meet the requirements of different test standards; The data processing module also performs the following calculations: Calculate the ratio of insertion force to extraction force as an indicator for evaluating the self-locking performance of the clasp; Statistically analyze the force values of multiple tests to calculate the average value, standard deviation and process capability index.
10. The snap ring force testing method of claim 8, wherein: The control system has a self-adaptive test function: for the first test or unknown model of the lock catch, exploratory test is first carried out at a lower force limit value; the parameters of subsequent tests are automatically adjusted according to the measured force value range, and the parameters of the model are learned and recorded in the database.