Pneumatic operating device, control method and engine production system

Abstract

This invention provides a pneumatic operating device, control method, and engine production system, relating to the field of automotive manufacturing technology. The pneumatic operating device includes a positive and negative pressure air circuit unit and a sleeve unit. The sleeve unit includes a sleeve and a sleeve drive structure. One end of the sleeve has a connection interface adapted to a first target operating component. The sleeve has a communicating cavity extending to the connection interface and sealingly connected to the surface of the first target operating component. The positive and negative pressure air circuit unit is connected to the sleeve and generates positive or negative pressure in the communicating cavity. The sleeve drive structure is connected to the sleeve and drives the sleeve to translate axially and / or rotate circumferentially. This invention utilizes pressure difference to achieve the suction or release of the first target operating component, reducing the limitations imposed on the mounting structure of the first target operating component (e.g., bolts) in the engine, and does not impose material limitations on the first target operating component. It offers high stability and wide applicability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automobile manufacturing technology, and more specifically, to a pneumatic operating device, control method, and engine production system. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of modern industry, the degree of automation in the production of products such as automobiles is getting higher and higher. For example, in the process of engine production and assembly, it is necessary to automatically install or disassemble a large number of small parts such as bolts, gaskets, and cup plugs. Using automation technology to disassemble and assemble these parts can improve the degree of automation and reduce the amount of manual labor.

[0003] However, current automated assembly and disassembly technologies still have some shortcomings. Taking a bolt as the target operating component (or component to be disassembled / assembled), a sleeve is used to connect the bolt. Specifically, an interface for connecting to the bolt is set at the front end of the sleeve. The bolt can be tightened or loosened by rotating the sleeve. At this time, in order to maintain the connection between the bolt and the front end of the sleeve and prevent the bolt from falling off, some technologies are equipped with a hook. The hook part of the hook extends to the end of the bolt head near the threaded post, so as to hook the bolt head during, for example, the loosening process. In other technologies, a magnetic attraction method is used at the end of the sleeve to pick up the bolt. When equipped with a hook, there are several drawbacks. First, the hook requires a certain layout of space around the bolt mounting hole. For example, sufficient clearance must be provided around the bolt mounting hole for the hook to extend. If there is insufficient clearance around the bolt mounting hole, the hook cannot reach the end of the bolt head near the threaded post, making bolt removal impossible. This places relatively high demands on the engine structure and is detrimental to engine design. Second, the bolt moves relative to the hook, causing wear and tear on the hook, requiring maintenance, which is inconvenient and results in poor operational stability. Magnetic attraction, on the other hand, imposes material limitations on the bolts and other target components. Furthermore, the attracted bolts and other target components become magnetized, potentially affecting engine performance. In some cases, demagnetization is required after assembly. Additionally, the magnetism at the sleeve end diminishes over time, potentially leading to attraction failure and affecting operational stability.

[0004] In particular, after disassembling the target operating component, such as a bolt, it is necessary to transport the disassembled component to a designated location, such as a hopper. This is usually done by a handling robot that removes the target operating component from the sleeve and transports it to the hopper. This process is complex and takes up a lot of space. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to solve, to some extent, the problem in related technologies of how to balance the stability requirements of disassembly and assembly devices for components such as bolts and cup plugs with the requirement to reduce space occupation.

[0006] To at least partially address at least one aspect of the aforementioned problems, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a pneumatic operating device, comprising a positive and negative pressure air circuit unit and a sleeve unit. The sleeve unit includes a sleeve and a sleeve driving structure. One end of the sleeve forms a connection interface adapted to a first target operating component. The sleeve is provided with a communicating cavity extending to the connection interface and sealingly connected to the surface of the first target operating component. The positive and negative pressure air circuit unit is connected to the sleeve and generates positive or negative pressure in the communicating cavity. The sleeve driving structure is connected to the sleeve and drives the sleeve to translate axially and / or rotate circumferentially.

[0007] Optionally, the positive and negative pressure air path unit includes a first positive pressure air path and a negative pressure air path;

[0008] The first positive pressure air path is connected to the connecting cavity, and the end of the first positive pressure air path away from the connecting cavity is connected to a positive pressure air source;

[0009] The negative pressure air path is connected to the connecting cavity; the end of the negative pressure air path away from the connecting cavity is connected to a negative pressure air source, or a positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device is provided on the negative pressure air path, and the positive pressure air inlet of the positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device is connected to the positive pressure air source.

[0010] Optionally, the pneumatic operating device further includes a second positive pressure air path and a nozzle. The second positive pressure air path is connected to the nozzle, and one end of the second positive pressure air path away from the nozzle is connected to the positive pressure air source. When the sleeve moves to the set position, the first target operating component is cleaned through the nozzle.

[0011] Optionally, the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit further includes a connecting block, which is connected to the fixed end of the sleeve drive structure. The connecting block forms a first chamber, and the connecting block is movably connected to the sleeve. The first chamber is connected to the communicating cavity, and the first chamber is connected to the first positive pressure air circuit and the negative pressure air circuit respectively.

[0012] Optionally, the pneumatic operating device further includes a movable seat, a fixed seat, and a translation drive structure. The sleeve drive structure is mounted on the movable seat, and the translation drive structure is disposed between the fixed seat and the movable seat and drives the movable seat to move. The translation direction of the translation drive structure extends along the axial direction of the sleeve.

[0013] And / or, the sleeve drive structure includes a linear drive structure and / or a rotary drive structure, the free end of the linear drive structure is connected to the sleeve, the linear drive structure drives the sleeve to translate axially, the free end of the rotary drive structure is connected to the sleeve, and the rotary drive structure drives the sleeve to rotate circumferentially.

[0014] Optionally, there are multiple sleeve units, wherein the sleeve drive structure of the multiple sleeve units is mounted on the same movable base.

[0015] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a pneumatic operating device, which is used in the pneumatic operating device described in the first aspect above, comprising:

[0016] The sleeve of the sleeve unit of the pneumatic operating device generates a negative pressure in the communicating cavity and sucks up the first target operating component;

[0017] The sleeve drive structure of the sleeve unit is driven and controlled according to the target operation corresponding to the first target operation component;

[0018] The communication cavity is controlled to generate positive pressure and release the first target operating component.

[0019] Optionally, before the first target operating component is picked up, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes:

[0020] The communicating cavity is controlled to generate positive pressure and to blow air to clean the first target operating component before it is sucked up;

[0021] And / or, during the installation operation, before the first target operating component is picked up, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes:

[0022] The communicating cavity is controlled to generate positive pressure and blow air to clean the target mounting hole, wherein the target mounting hole is located on the second target operating component and is used to install the first target operating component;

[0023] And / or, when the target operation includes a disassembly operation, after releasing the first target operating component, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes:

[0024] The communicating cavity is controlled to generate positive pressure and the target mounting hole is cleaned by blowing air.

[0025] And / or, before releasing the first target operating component, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes:

[0026] The nozzle of the pneumatic operating device is controlled to blow air to clean the first target operating component that is being sucked up.

[0027] Thirdly, the present invention also provides an engine production system comprising the pneumatic operating device described in the first aspect above.

[0028] Optionally, the engine production system includes multiple workstations arranged sequentially, and the sleeve unit of the pneumatic operating device includes multiple first sleeve units and multiple second sleeve units. The sleeve drive structure of the first sleeve unit includes a linear drive structure, and the sleeve drive structure of the second sleeve unit includes a rotary drive structure. The first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit correspond to different workstation settings.

[0029] Compared to existing technologies, in the pneumatic operating device, control method, and engine production system of the present invention, one end of the sleeve is formed with a connection interface adapted to the first target operating component. The pneumatic operating device can be connected to the first target operating component, such as a bolt or a cup-shaped plug, through the connection interface. The communicating cavity provided on the sleeve extends to the connection interface and is sealed to the surface of the first target operating component. For example, the end face of the communicating cavity is fitted with the end face of the bolt head or the inner bottom surface of the cup-shaped plug. Thus, the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit can generate negative pressure in the communicating cavity, and the pressure difference can be used to absorb the first target operating component. The sleeve can also be driven by the sleeve driving structure to move the sleeve and perform target operation on the first target operating component. For example, the sleeve driving structure can drive the sleeve to rotate to loosen or tighten the bolt. For example, the sleeve driving structure can drive the sleeve to translate axially to press the cup-shaped plug. This design reduces the space requirements for disassembling and assembling the first target operating component, eliminating the need for space to extend the grappling hook. It also reduces structural limitations on the first target operating component, such as bolts, within the engine, and avoids material restrictions. This prevents magnetization of the first target operating component, eliminating the need for demagnetization after assembly. The pneumatic operating device has a simple structure, is easy to maintain, offers high stability, and has wide applicability. Furthermore, positive pressure can be used to release the first target operating component, facilitating rapid switching between the pull-in and release states. For example, after tightening a bolt, the negative pressure in the connecting cavity can be switched to positive pressure to release the bolt; similarly, after pressing in a cup-shaped plug, the negative pressure in the connecting cavity can be switched to positive pressure to release the cup-shaped plug. Furthermore, after the first target operating component is disassembled, the sleeve can move the first target operating component, such as a bolt, to a hopper, creating positive pressure in the connecting cavity. This positive pressure, used for venting, pushes the bolt out of the connection interface. The positive pressure can be controlled according to actual needs, ensuring the bolt falls precisely into the hopper. This eliminates the need for a separate material-retrieving robot, resulting in a simple structure and high practicality. Additionally, the sleeve can be used to blow air to clean the target mounting hole used to install the first target operating component, ensuring its cleanliness and improving the reliability of the connection between the first target operating component and the target mounting hole. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the pneumatic operating device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pneumatic operating device when picking up a bolt from the sleeve in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sleeve of the pneumatic operating device for picking up the cup-shaped plug in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the pneumatic operating device further including a movable base is shown in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 5 In another embodiment of the present invention, the pneumatic operating device further includes a second positive pressure air path and a nozzle.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a pneumatic operating device control method in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0037] 1-Positive and negative pressure air circuit unit; 11-First positive pressure air circuit; 111-Switch element; 112-Pressure adjustment element; 12-Negative pressure air circuit; 121-Positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device; 13-Connecting block; 131-First chamber; 14-T-connector; 2-Sleeve unit; 21-Sleeve; 211-Connecting interface; 212-Connecting cavity; 22-Sleeve drive structure; 3-Positive pressure air source; 41-Second positive pressure air circuit; 42-Nozzle; 51-Moving seat; 52-Fixed seat; 53-Translation drive structure; 6-First target operation component; 61-Bowl plug; 7-Second target operation component; 71-Target mounting hole; 8-Hopper; 81-Hopper body; 82-Guide channel; 83-Inlet. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0040] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "embodiment," "one embodiment," "some implementations," "exemplary," and "one implementation," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or implementation is included in at least one embodiment or implementation of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or implementation. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or implementations.

[0041] The terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature.

[0042] In the attached figures, the Z-axis represents the vertical direction, i.e., the up-down position, and the positive direction of the Z-axis (i.e., the direction the arrow points to) indicates up, while the negative direction of the Z-axis (i.e., the direction opposite to the positive direction of the Z-axis) indicates down. In the attached figures, the X-axis represents the horizontal direction and is designated as the left-right position, and the positive direction of the X-axis (i.e., the direction the arrow points to) indicates the right side, while the negative direction of the X-axis (i.e., the direction opposite to the positive direction of the X-axis) indicates the left side. It should be noted that the aforementioned representations of the Z-axis and X-axis are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0043] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a pneumatic operating device, including a positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 and a sleeve unit 2. The sleeve unit 2 includes a sleeve 21 and a sleeve driving structure 22. One end of the sleeve 21 is formed with a connection interface 211 adapted to a first target operating component 6. The sleeve 21 is provided with a communicating cavity 212, which extends to the connection interface 211 and is sealed to the surface of the first target operating component 6. The positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 is connected to the sleeve 21 and generates positive or negative pressure in the communicating cavity 212. The sleeve driving structure 22 is connected to the sleeve 21 and drives the sleeve 21 to move.

[0044] Specifically, the sleeve drive structure 22 is connected to the sleeve 21 and drives the sleeve 21 to translate axially and / or rotate circumferentially, thereby enabling the first target operation component 6 to perform corresponding target operations.

[0045] The connection interface 211 is determined according to the first target operation component 6 and the target operation corresponding to the first target operation component 6. The way the sleeve drive structure 22 drives the sleeve 21 to move corresponds to the target operation required by the first target operation component 6. That is to say, when the first target operation component 6 is different, the specific structure of the connection interface 211 may be different, and the specific structure of the sleeve drive structure 22 may be the same or different, depending on the actual needs.

[0046] It should be noted that the target operation of the first target operating component 6 includes disassembling the first target operating component 6 and the second target operating component 7, or connecting the first target operating component 6 and the second target operating component 7. In this specification, the first target operating component 6 and the second target operating component 7 are both engine components, and the second target operating component 7 can be understood as the main components of the engine, such as the cylinder block and / or cylinder head, etc. The first target component can be understood as a relatively small component, such as a bolt, a cup-shaped plug 61, etc.

[0047] When the target operation corresponding to the first target operation component 6 includes a rotation operation, the connection interface 211 needs to be able to limit the rotation of the first target operation component 6. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustration shows the case where the first target operating component 6 is a bolt. The corresponding target operation is either a disassembly operation (i.e., loosening) or a connection operation (i.e., tightening). When the bolt head is an external hexagonal head, the connection interface 211 includes an internal hexagonal hole. The internal hexagonal hole is formed at one end of the connecting cavity 212 and communicates with the connecting cavity 212. The cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting cavity 212 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal hexagonal hole. When the bolt head is inserted into the internal hexagonal hole, the end face of the connecting cavity 212 near the internal hexagonal hole fits against the end face of the external hexagonal head away from the threaded post, thereby achieving a seal in the connecting cavity 212. Furthermore, when the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 generates negative pressure in the connecting cavity 212, the pressure difference can be used to draw the bolt onto the sleeve 21. The sleeve drive structure 22 drives the sleeve 21 to rotate circumferentially, thereby rotating the bolt and achieving the tightening or loosening of the bolt.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, exemplarily, when the first target operating component 6 is a bowl-shaped plug 61, the connecting interface 211 may include a protruding post structure located at one end of the sleeve 21. The end face of the protruding post structure is in contact with the inner bottom wall of the bowl-shaped plug 61, and the peripheral sidewall of the protruding post structure near the end face is in contact with the circumferential inner sidewall of the bowl-shaped plug 61, thereby achieving circumferential positioning of the bowl-shaped plug 61. When the protruding post structure is inserted into the bowl-shaped plug 61, the end face of the connecting cavity 212 is in contact with the inner bottom wall of the bowl-shaped plug 61. Furthermore, when the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 generates negative pressure in the connecting cavity 212, the pressure difference can be used to pick up the bowl-shaped plug 61 onto the sleeve 21. The sleeve driving structure 22 drives the sleeve 21 to move axially, thereby achieving the pressing of the bowl-shaped plug 61. Optionally, the sleeve driving structure 22 can drive the sleeve 21 to rotate circumferentially to achieve the rotation of the bowl-shaped plug 61.

[0049] Thus, one end of the sleeve 21 has a connection interface 211 adapted to the first target operating component 6. The pneumatic operating device can be connected to the first target operating component 6, such as a bolt or a cup-shaped plug 61, through the connection interface 211. The connecting cavity 212 provided on the sleeve 21 extends to the connection interface 211 and is sealed to the surface of the first target operating component 6. For example, the end face of the connecting cavity 212 is in contact with the end face of the bolt head or the inner bottom surface of the cup-shaped plug 61. Thus, the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 can generate negative pressure in the connecting cavity 212, and the pressure difference can be used to achieve the suction of the first target operating component 6. The sleeve 21 can also be driven to move by the sleeve drive structure 22, and the first target operating component 6 can be operated. For example, the sleeve drive structure 22 can drive the sleeve 21 to rotate, thereby loosening or tightening the bolt. For example, the sleeve drive structure 22 can drive the sleeve 21 to translate axially, thereby pressing the cup-shaped plug 61. In this invention, the negative pressure is used to absorb the first target operating component 6, which reduces the space requirements for disassembly and assembly of the first target operating component 6. There is no need to reserve space for the claw to extend into the machine, reducing restrictions on the installation structure of the first target operating component 6, such as bolts on the engine, and avoiding material limitations. This also prevents magnetization of the first target operating component 6, eliminating the need for demagnetization after assembly. The pneumatic operating device has a simple structure, is easy to maintain, has high stability, and wide applicability. Furthermore, positive pressure can be used to release the first target operating component 6, facilitating rapid switching between the absorption and release states. For example, after tightening the bolt, the negative pressure state in the connecting cavity 212 can be switched to a positive pressure state to release the bolt; similarly, after pressing the cup-shaped plug 61, the negative pressure state in the connecting cavity 212 can be switched to a positive pressure state to release the cup-shaped plug 61. In addition, after the first target operating component 6 is disassembled, when the sleeve 21 drives the first target operating component 6, such as the bolt, to move to the hopper 8, the connecting cavity 212 can generate positive pressure. The positive pressure exhaust pressure is used to push the bolt out from the connection interface 211. The positive pressure is controlled according to actual needs so that the bolt falls into the hopper 8. There is no need to set up a separate material handling robot to pick up the material. The structure is simple and highly practical.

[0050] Optionally, the sleeve drive structure 22 includes a rotary drive structure, the free end of which is connected to the sleeve 21, and the rotary drive structure drives the sleeve 21 to rotate circumferentially.

[0051] For example, the linear drive structure is a tightening shaft, the free end of which is connected to the end of the sleeve 21 away from the connection interface 211, and the fixed end of the tightening shaft is fixed or mounted on, for example, the movable seat 51 described later. The tightening shaft can perform the tightening or loosening operation of the first target operation component 6, such as a bolt.

[0052] Optionally, the sleeve drive structure 22 includes a linear drive structure, the free end of which is connected to the sleeve 21, and the linear drive structure drives the sleeve 21 to translate axially.

[0053] For example, the linear drive structure is a servo press, and the sleeve 21 is installed at the free end of the servo press. The servo press can drive the sleeve 21 to translate axially, thereby realizing the translation of the first target operating component 6, such as the cup-shaped plug 61, along the axial direction of the sleeve 21 and realizing the pressing of the cup-shaped plug 61.

[0054] Optionally, the sleeve drive structure 22 may include a rotary drive structure and a linear drive structure, which may be connected in sequence. For example, the fixed end of the rotary drive mechanism is fixed or connected to, for example, the movable seat 51 described later, and the fixed end of the linear drive structure is connected to the free end of the rotary drive structure.

[0055] At this time, the sleeve drive structure 22 can drive the sleeve 21 to rotate circumferentially and move axially as needed, which has wide applicability.

[0056] Optionally, the sleeve 21 can be configured as a split structure, for example, it includes a first structural segment and a second structural segment, the first structural segment is connected to the sleeve drive structure 22, the second structural segment is detachably connected to the first structural segment, and the second structural segment is provided with the connection interface 211.

[0057] In this way, the second structural section can be replaced according to the specific structure of the first target operating component 6, so that the sleeve unit 2 can be adapted to different first target operating components 6, improving the applicability of the pneumatic operating device. Furthermore, when the connecting cavity 212 leaks due to wear from contact with the first target operating component 6, the second structural section can be replaced to meet the usage requirements, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, optionally, the pneumatic operating device also includes a movable seat 51, a fixed seat 52, and a translation drive structure 53. The sleeve drive structure 22 is mounted on the movable seat 51, and the translation drive structure 53 is disposed between the fixed seat 52 and the movable seat 51 and drives the movable seat 51 to move. The translation direction of the translation drive structure 53 extends along the axial direction of the sleeve 21.

[0059] For example, the movable seat 51 is movably disposed on the fixed seat 52 along the axial direction of the sleeve 21 via the guide rail slider assembly, and the translation drive structure 53 may include a lead screw and nut transmission structure or a telescopic cylinder, etc.

[0060] Thus, the sleeve drive structure 22 and the sleeve 21 can be translated as a whole by the translation drive structure 53. In particular, when there are multiple sleeve units 2, the multiple sleeve drive structures 22 of the sleeve unit 2 can be installed on the same moving seat 51, which can reduce the number of translation drive structures 53 to a certain extent.

[0061] For example, when the first target operating component 6 is a bolt and the target operation is bolt removal, the sleeve drive structure 22 may only include a rotary drive structure. While the rotary drive structure drives the sleeve 21 to rotate circumferentially, the translation drive structure 53 drives multiple rotary drive structures to synchronously translate along the axial direction of the sleeve 21. By reasonably controlling its translation speed, the connecting cavity 212 can maintain a good sealing state during bolt loosening. In this case, the sleeve drive structure 22 does not need to be equipped with the aforementioned linear drive structure to maintain the suction force on the bolt. When the sleeve drive structure 22 includes the aforementioned linear drive structure, the translation stroke of the translation drive structure 53 can be used to a certain extent to increase the maximum axial displacement of the sleeve 21, reducing the stroke requirement of the linear drive structure. It should be understood that the translation drive structure 53 and the linear drive structure can be different structures or the same structure; this is not a limitation and will not be described in detail here.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown in this embodiment, it should be understood that the fixed base 52 can also be used to install other components. For example, the fixed base 52 is provided with a first support position, a second support position, etc. The second target operation component 7 is connected to the fixed base 52 at the first support position, and the hopper 8 is connected to the fixed base 52 at the second support position.

[0063] Optionally, the number of sleeve units 2 is set to multiple, including multiple first sleeve units and multiple second sleeve units. The sleeve drive structure 22 of the first sleeve unit includes a linear drive structure, and the sleeve drive structure 22 of the second sleeve unit includes a rotary drive structure. The first sleeve units and the second sleeve units correspond to different workstations. The different workstations are selected from multiple workstations distributed sequentially in the production system.

[0064] Specifically, in the production system, the connection interfaces 211 of the sleeves 21 of the first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit are different and are used to connect different first target operating components 6. For example, the connection interface 211 of the first sleeve unit is adapted to the bolt, and the connection interface 211 of the second sleeve unit is adapted to the cup-shaped plug 61. Based on this, multiple sleeve units 2 can also be set up with more sleeve units 2 for connecting other first target operating components 6 according to actual needs, which will not be described in detail here.

[0065] At this time, the sleeve drive structure 22 of multiple first sleeve units at the same workstation can be installed on the same moving base 51, and the sleeve drive structure 22 of multiple second sleeve units at the same workstation can be installed on the same moving base 51, thereby enabling batch operation of multiple first target operating components 6, which will not be described in detail here.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown, optionally, the positive and negative pressure air path unit 1 includes a first positive pressure air path 11 and a negative pressure air path 12.

[0067] The first positive pressure air passage 11 is connected to the connecting cavity 212, and the end of the first positive pressure air passage 11 away from the connecting cavity 212 is connected to the positive pressure air source 3.

[0068] The negative pressure air passage 12 is connected to the connecting cavity 212; the end of the negative pressure air passage 12 away from the connecting cavity 212 is connected to the negative pressure air source.

[0069] Here, it should be understood that the positive pressure air source 3 can come from an external air source, such as the positive pressure air source 3 supplied by the factory's air supply system, or it can come from inside the pneumatic operating device. For example, a positive pressure air generator is provided at the end of the first positive pressure air path 11 away from the connecting cavity 212. The positive pressure air generator can generate positive pressure air and can be used as a positive pressure air source 3.

[0070] Similar to the positive pressure air source 3, the negative pressure air source here can also come from outside the pneumatic operating device or from inside the pneumatic operating device. For example, a negative pressure air generator is provided at the end of the negative pressure air path 12 away from the connecting cavity 212.

[0071] Unlike the aforementioned scheme where the negative pressure air path 12 is connected to a negative pressure air source, in an optional embodiment of the present invention, a positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device 121 is provided on the negative pressure air path 12. This device can convert the input positive pressure air into negative pressure air and output it. For example, the positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device 121 can be a vacuum generator. A vacuum generator is a new type of efficient, clean, economical, and small vacuum component that uses a positive pressure air source 3 to generate negative pressure. This makes it very easy and convenient to obtain negative pressure in places where compressed air is available, or in places where both positive and negative pressure are required in a pneumatic system. In this case, the positive pressure air inlet of the positive pressure air to negative pressure air conversion device 121 is connected to the aforementioned positive pressure air source 3. This specification will use this as an example to illustrate the content of the present invention.

[0072] Specifically, when a positive pressure gas to negative pressure gas conversion device 121 is provided on the negative pressure gas path 12, and the first positive pressure gas path 11 is connected to an external positive pressure gas source, the positive pressure gas inlet of the positive pressure gas to negative pressure gas conversion device 121 is connected to the external positive pressure gas source; when a positive pressure gas to negative pressure gas conversion device 121 is provided on the negative pressure gas path 12, and a positive pressure gas generator is provided at the end of the first positive pressure gas path 11 away from the connecting cavity 212, the positive pressure gas inlet of the positive pressure gas to negative pressure gas conversion device 121 is connected to the positive pressure gas outlet of the positive pressure gas generator through a pipeline.

[0073] In this way, a relatively stable negative or positive pressure can be provided to the connecting cavity 212, thereby fulfilling the corresponding functions.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, the pneumatic operating device further includes a second positive pressure air passage 41 and a nozzle 42. The second positive pressure air passage 41 is connected to the nozzle 42. The end of the second positive pressure air passage 41 away from the nozzle 42 is connected to the positive pressure air source 3. When the sleeve 21 moves to the set position, the first target operating component 6 is cleaned through the nozzle 42.

[0075] Specifically, when the first positive pressure air path 11 is connected to an external positive pressure air source, the end of the second positive pressure air path 41 away from the nozzle 42 is connected to the external positive pressure air source; when the first positive pressure air path 11 is equipped with a positive pressure air generating device, the end of the second positive pressure air path 41 away from the nozzle 42 is connected to the positive pressure air outlet of the positive pressure air generating device.

[0076] It should be noted that when the sleeve 21 is in the set position, the spray coverage area of ​​the nozzle 42 can clean the first target operating component 6. The specific arrangement of this set position can be determined according to actual needs. Taking the first target operating component 6 as a bolt, and the target operation including disassembling the bolt and releasing the bolt into the hopper 8 by blowing air as an example, when the sleeve 21 drives the bolt to move, and the sleeve 21 is in the set position, the second positive pressure air path 41 and the nozzle 42 are connected to spray positive pressure gas, thereby blowing air onto the bolt to clean it and effectively remove oil stains and metal debris residue from the bolt surface. Then, the cleaned bolt is released into the feed inlet 83 of the hopper 8 (during this process, the sleeve 21 can move as needed). At this time, it should be understood that the air jet direction of the nozzle 42 can be set away from the feed inlet 83 to avoid blowing oil stains and metal debris into the hopper 8. An oil stain and debris collection hopper can also be set up.

[0077] like Figure 4As shown, exemplarily, the hopper 8 includes a hopper body 81 and a material guide channel 82. The material guide channel 82 is inclined, with its lower end connected to the hopper body 81 and its upper end provided with a feed inlet 83. The feed inlet 83 is located below the movement path of the sleeve 21 driving the bolt. The translation drive structure 53 and / or the sleeve drive structure 22 are controlled to move the sleeve 21 to a set position. When the sleeve 21 is in the set position, the bolt on the sleeve 21 (or other first target operating component 6) is projected in the vertical direction onto the side of the feed inlet 83 away from the second target operating component 7. The nozzle 42 sprays air towards the side away from the feed inlet 83. For example, the nozzle 42 is set diagonally above the bolt and sprays air diagonally downwards. After cleaning, the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 is controlled to generate positive pressure in the connecting cavity 212. The positive pressure air is used to blow the bolt out from the connection interface 211. By controlling the positive pressure air pressure and continuous actual control, the bolt can fall into the feed inlet 83. This prevents oil stains or metal debris from entering the hopper 8 or causing secondary contamination of the second target operating component 7 during cleaning. At this time, a collection device can be installed in the jet direction of the nozzle 42 below the bolt to collect the blown-off oil stains or metal debris, etc., which will not be described in detail here.

[0078] In this way, the spray nozzle 42 can be used to replace manual cleaning or sanitation, which can save manpower and improve work efficiency.

[0079] Furthermore, a switching element 111 and a pressure regulating element 112 are provided in one or more of the first positive pressure air path 11, the negative pressure air path 12, and the second positive pressure air path 41. For example, each air path is provided with a switching element 111 and a pressure regulating element 112, where the switching element 111 is a solenoid valve and the pressure regulating element 112 is a pressure regulating valve.

[0080] It should be understood that the pneumatic operating device also includes a controller, which is electrically connected to various control components such as switching element 111 and pressure adjustment element 112. The controller is also electrically connected to sensing elements such as position sensors, which will not be described in detail here.

[0081] In this way, the on / off control of the corresponding air path can be realized by switching the switching element 111, and the air pressure at the output end of the corresponding air path can be adjusted by the pressure regulating valve, so as to maintain a stable air pressure when sucking, releasing or cleaning the first target operating component 6, thereby improving the stability of use.

[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, optionally, the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1 further includes a connecting block 13, which is connected to the fixed end of the sleeve drive structure 22. The connecting block 13 forms a first chamber 131, which is movably connected to the sleeve 21. The first chamber 131 is connected to the connecting cavity 212, and the first chamber 131 is connected to the first positive pressure air circuit 11 and the negative pressure air circuit 12 respectively.

[0083] For example, the fixed ends of the connecting block 13 and the sleeve drive structure 22 are both mounted on the aforementioned movable seat 51, thereby realizing the connection between the connecting block 13 and the fixed end of the sleeve drive structure 22. The first positive pressure air passage 11 and the negative pressure air passage 12 are connected to two of the interfaces of the three-way connector 14, and the other interface of the three-way connector 14 is connected to the connecting block 13 and communicates with the first chamber 131.

[0084] The sleeve 21 has a communication port on its side wall of the communicating cavity 212. When the connecting block 13 is movably connected to the sleeve 21, for example, when it is rotatably connected, this communication port remains connected to the first chamber 131. Thus, the connecting block 13 and the connected first positive pressure air passage 11 and negative pressure air passage 12 do not need to move with the sleeve 21. In particular, when the sleeve 21 needs to rotate, not having to rotate with the sleeve 21 will not cause entanglement of the corresponding pipes in the first positive pressure air passage 11 and negative pressure air passage 12, improving the reliability of the pneumatic operating device, and can reduce the space occupation to a certain extent (reducing the space occupation caused by the following requirements of the corresponding pipes in the first positive pressure air passage 11 and negative pressure air passage 12).

[0085] Of course, it should be understood that in another embodiment, the connecting block 13 may be fixedly connected to the sleeve 21 and move with the sleeve 21, which will not be described in detail here.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, another embodiment of the present invention provides a pneumatic operating device control method, which is used for the pneumatic operating device as described in the above embodiment. The pneumatic operating device control method includes:

[0087] Step S1: Control the sleeve 21 of the sleeve unit 2 of the pneumatic operating device to generate negative pressure in the communicating cavity 212 and suck up the first target operating component 6;

[0088] Step S2: Drive the sleeve drive structure 22 of the sleeve unit 2 according to the target operation corresponding to the first target operation component 6;

[0089] Step S3: Control the communicating cavity 212 to generate positive pressure and release the first target operating component 6.

[0090] Specifically, positive or negative pressure is generated in the connecting cavity 212 by controlling the positive and negative pressure air circuit unit 1, etc. When the first target operating component 6 is picked up in step S1, and when the first target operating component 6 is released in step S3, the sleeve drive structure 22 and / or the translation drive structure 53 can be controlled as needed to allow the sleeve 21 to reach the corresponding position for picking up or releasing the first target operating component 6. Some aspects of this method have been exemplarily described in the previous embodiment. For example, the target operation of the first target operating component may include an installation operation or a disassembly operation. Specifically, when the first target operating component is a bolt, it may be a bolt tightening operation or a bolt loosening operation, which will not be described in detail here.

[0091] Optionally, before the first target operating component 6 is sucked up, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes: controlling the communicating cavity 212 to generate positive pressure and blowing air to clean the first target operating component 6 before it is sucked up.

[0092] For example, when performing bolt disassembly or installation operations, before picking up the bolt, the positive pressure of the connecting cavity 212 can be used to blow air onto the bolt, such as the bolt head, to effectively remove oil stains and aluminum shavings residue from the surface of the parts.

[0093] Optionally, during the installation operation, before the first target operation component 6 is sucked up, the pneumatic operation device control method further includes: controlling the communicating cavity 212 to generate positive pressure and blowing air to clean the target mounting hole 71, wherein the target mounting hole 71 is located on the second target operation component 7 and is used to install the first target operation component 6.

[0094] For example, before installing the bolts, the positive pressure of the connecting cavity 212 is used to blow air to clean the target mounting hole 71, which helps to ensure the reliability of the connection between the first target operating component 6, such as the bolts, and the second target operating component 7.

[0095] Optionally, when the target operation includes a disassembly operation, after releasing the first target operation component 6, the pneumatic operation device control method further includes: controlling the communicating cavity 212 to generate positive pressure and blowing air to clean the target mounting hole 71.

[0096] For example, after the bolts are removed and released, the sleeve 21 moves to a position close to the target mounting hole 71 and blows air to clean the target mounting hole 71.

[0097] Optionally, before releasing the first target operating component 6, the pneumatic operating device control method further includes controlling the nozzle 42 of the pneumatic operating device to blow air to clean the first target operating component 6 that has been sucked up.

[0098] At this point, it should be understood that when performing bolt installation operations, this air-blowing cleaning should be performed before the stud is inserted into the target mounting hole 71. That is, when the target operation includes a disassembly operation, after the drive control of the sleeve drive structure 22 of the sleeve unit 2 is performed, and before the release of the first target operating component 6, the first target operating component 6 that has been picked up should be air-blown cleaned. When performing bolt disassembly operations, this air-blowing cleaning should be performed after the stud is disengaged from the target mounting hole 71 and before the bolt is released. That is, when the target operation includes an installation operation, after the first target operating component 6 is picked up, and before the drive control of the sleeve drive structure 22 of the sleeve unit 2 is performed, the first target operating component 6 that has been picked up should be air-blown cleaned.

[0099] In this way, parts of the first target operating component 6 other than the part connected to the connection interface 211, such as the threaded post of the bolt, can be cleaned by blowing air, ensuring the reliability of the connection between the first target operating component 6 and the second target operating component 7.

[0100] Furthermore, when the same first target operating component 6 needs to be repeatedly disassembled and installed, if the time interval between disassembly and installation is within a preset interval, or if the degree of secondary pollution is controllable, the first target operating component 6 can be cleaned by blowing air in the suction state only in one process, and the target mounting hole 71 can be cleaned by blowing air only in one process. For example, the first target operating component 6 can be cleaned by blowing air in the suction state only during disassembly, and the target mounting hole 71 can be cleaned by blowing air only during installation before suctioning the first target operating component 6.

[0101] For example, in some cases, when the second target operating component 7 is located at the same workstation, the pneumatic operating device performs the disassembly and installation of the first target operating component 6 sequentially. At this time, when the sleeve 21 moves to the aforementioned set position along the axial direction, the first target operating component 6, such as a bolt, is released into the feed inlet 83 of the hopper 8. It then moves towards the side closer to the second target operating component 7, that is, when it moves to the first position along the positive X-axis, the target mounting hole 71 can be cleaned. When the sleeve 21 moves axially to the second position, the first target operating component 6 can be picked up during the installation operation. The second position can be located between the first position and the aforementioned set position. In this case, the pneumatic operating device can be equipped with a feeding unit. The feeding unit processes and transports the first target operating component 6, such as a bolt, in the hopper 8 to the sleeve 21 at the second position to feed it. Before feeding, the sleeve 21 cleans the target mounting hole 71 with air at the first position.

[0102] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an engine production system, which includes the pneumatic operating device as described in the above embodiment.

[0103] Optionally, the sleeve drive structure 22 of the multiple sleeve units 2 of the pneumatic operating device is mounted on the same movable base 51 of the pneumatic operating device.

[0104] Optionally, the engine production system includes multiple workstations arranged in sequence, and the sleeve unit 2 of the pneumatic operating device includes multiple first sleeve units and multiple second sleeve units. The sleeve drive structure 22 of the first sleeve unit includes a linear drive structure, and the sleeve drive structure 22 of the second sleeve unit includes a rotary drive structure. The first sleeve unit and the second sleeve unit correspond to different workstation settings.

[0105] Specifically, the second operating component moves through multiple workstations distributed in sequence, and performs corresponding operations during the movement, such as disassembling or installing multiple first target operating components 6. The relevant content of the engine production system has been described in detail above. The pneumatic operating device of the engine production system operates according to the above-mentioned pneumatic operating device control method, which will not be repeated here.

[0106] While the present invention has been disclosed above, its scope of protection is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such changes and modifications will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pneumatically operated device, characterized in that The pneumatic operation device comprises a positive and negative pressure gas path unit (1) and a sleeve unit (2), the sleeve unit (2) comprises a sleeve (21) and a sleeve driving structure (22); one end of the sleeve (21) is formed with a connecting interface (211) matched with a first target operating component (6), the sleeve (21) is provided with a communication cavity (212) extending to the connecting interface (211) and sealingly connected with the surface of the first target operating component (6); the positive and negative pressure gas path unit (1) is connected with the sleeve (21) and makes the communication cavity (212) produce positive pressure or negative pressure; the sleeve driving structure (22) is connected with the sleeve (21) and drives the sleeve (21) to translate along the axial direction and / or rotate along the circumferential direction; The positive and negative pressure gas path unit (1) comprises a connecting block (13) located at one end of the sleeve driving structure (22) close to the connecting interface (211), the connecting block (13) is connected with the fixed end of the sleeve driving structure (22), the connecting block (13) is formed with a first cavity (131), the sleeve (21) is arranged in the connecting block (13) and movably connected with the connecting block (13); the side wall of the communication cavity (212) of the sleeve (21) is provided with a communication port, the communication port is in communication with the first cavity (131); The pneumatic operation device further comprises a moving seat (51), a fixed seat (52) and a translation driving structure (53), the sleeve driving structure (22) is installed on the moving seat (51), the translation driving structure (53) is arranged between the fixed seat (52) and the moving seat (51) and drives the moving seat (51) to move, the translation direction of the translation driving structure (53) extends along the axial direction of the sleeve (21); The positive and negative pressure gas path unit (1) comprises a first positive pressure gas path (11) and a negative pressure gas path (12); the first positive pressure gas path (11) is in communication with the communication cavity (212), one end of the first positive pressure gas path (11) away from the communication cavity (212) is connected with a positive pressure gas source (3); the negative pressure gas path (12) is in communication with the communication cavity (212); one end of the negative pressure gas path (12) away from the communication cavity (212) is connected with a negative pressure gas source, or the negative pressure gas path (12) is provided with a positive pressure gas conversion negative pressure gas device (121), and the positive pressure gas inlet of the positive pressure gas conversion negative pressure gas device (121) is connected with the positive pressure gas source (3); The negative pressure gas path (12) is used for making the communication cavity (212) produce negative pressure and sucking the first target operating component (6); the first positive pressure gas path (11) is used for making the communication cavity (212) produce positive pressure and releasing the sucked first target operating component (6); The first positive pressure gas path (11) is also used for making the communication cavity (212) produce positive pressure and blowing and cleaning the first target operating component (6) before being sucked; The pneumatic operation device further comprises a second positive pressure air path (41) and a nozzle (42), the second positive pressure air path (41) is connected with the nozzle (42), one end of the second positive pressure air path (41) away from the nozzle (42) is connected with the positive pressure air source (3), when the sleeve (21) moves to a set position, the second positive pressure air path (41) is used to generate positive pressure to clean the first target operation component (6) sucked by the sleeve (21) through the nozzle (42).

2. The air-operated device of claim 1, wherein The first chamber (131) is in communication with the first positive pressure air path (11) and the negative pressure air path (12) respectively.

3. The air operated device of claim 1, wherein, The sleeve driving structure (22) comprises a linear driving structure and / or a rotary driving structure, a free end of the linear driving structure is connected with the sleeve (21), the linear driving structure drives the sleeve (21) to translate along an axial direction, a free end of the rotary driving structure is connected with the sleeve (21), the rotary driving structure drives the sleeve (21) to rotate along a circumferential direction.

4. The air-operated device of claim 3, wherein The number of the sleeve units (2) is multiple, wherein the sleeve driving structures (22) of the multiple sleeve units (2) are installed on the same moving base (51).

5. A method of controlling a pneumatic operation device, characterized by, The pneumatic operation device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: controlling the communication chamber (212) of the sleeve (21) of the sleeve unit (2) of the pneumatic operation device to generate negative pressure and suck the first target operation component (6); driving and controlling the sleeve driving structure (22) of the sleeve unit (2) according to a target operation corresponding to the first target operation component (6); controlling the communication chamber (212) to generate positive pressure and release the first target operation component (6); Before the first target operation component (6) is sucked, the pneumatic operation device control method further comprises: controlling the communication chamber (212) to generate positive pressure and blow and clean the first target operation component (6) before being sucked; Before the first target operation component (6) is released, the pneumatic operation device control method further comprises: controlling the nozzle (42) of the pneumatic operation device to blow and clean the sucked first target operation component (6).

6. The method of controlling a pneumatic operator as set forth in claim 5, wherein, When the target operation comprises an installation operation, before the first target operation component (6) is sucked, the pneumatic operation device control method further comprises: controlling the communication chamber (212) to generate positive pressure and blow and clean a target installation hole (71), wherein the target installation hole (71) is located on a second target operation component (7) and is used for installing the first target operation component (6); When the target operation comprises a dismounting operation, after the first target operation component (6) is released, the pneumatic operation device control method further comprises: controlling the communication chamber (212) to generate positive pressure and blow and clean the target installation hole (71).

7. An engine production system characterized by comprising: The pneumatic operation device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The engine production system of claim 7, wherein The engine production system comprises a plurality of stations arranged in sequence, the sleeve units (2) of the pneumatic operating device comprise a plurality of first sleeve units and a plurality of second sleeve units, the sleeve driving structure (22) of the first sleeve unit comprises a linear driving structure, the sleeve driving structure (22) of the second sleeve unit comprises a rotary driving structure, and the first sleeve units and the second sleeve units are arranged correspondingly to different stations.

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