Detection tube labelling machine

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of detection tube labelling machine, including detection tube rack, labelling mechanism, blanking mechanism and feeding mechanism, the blanking mechanism is cooperatively installed with detection tube rack for single tube blanking to detection tube in detection tube rack, feeding mechanism is set in the blanking end of detection tube rack, for the detection tube after blanking is conveyed to labelling mechanism and is carried out labelling processing, and the detection tube after labelling is guided from the discharge port of labelling mechanism.The application is set in the prior art, and the mobile tube taking mechanism of integral structure is set as blanking mechanism and feeding mechanism, blanking mechanism can be according to the single tube blanking of detection tube placed on detection tube rack to use demand, and the detection tube after blanking can be moved to the feeding port of labelling mechanism and enter labelling mechanism and carry out labelling operation, and the detection tube after completing labelling is guided from discharge port.The application is set, and the division of labor between each mechanism of labelling machine is clear, can effectively reduce the failure rate in use process, improve the service life of complete machine, reduce maintenance, maintenance cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automatic labeling technology for test tubes, and more particularly to a labeling machine for test tubes. Background Technology

[0002] Hospital testing services include blood tests, urine tests, and stool tests, all of which involve the use of test tubes for sample collection and transfer. During the testing process, patient information and other details need to be printed and labeled onto the corresponding test tubes to ensure the accuracy of the patient's test samples.

[0003] In the existing technology, in order to improve the information level of hospitals and reduce the labor intensity of medical staff, an integrated test tube labeling device is provided. Since test tubes have different types according to their testing subjects (for example, there are nine types of test tubes for blood testing), the existing test tube labeling machine can select different types of test tubes before performing the labeling operation.

[0004] For example, the patent application number CN201910763632.6, entitled "A Fully Automatic Test Tube Printing and Labeling Machine", describes a labeling machine that uses a test tube rack to store different types of test tubes. A moving tube-retrieving mechanism picks up the target test tube from the test tube rack and moves it to the printing and labeling mechanism. The printing and labeling mechanism then performs the labeling operation on the test tube, and the labeled test tube can be removed from the machine for use.

[0005] In the aforementioned patent, the test tube rack consists of multiple parallel guide troughs, each tilted. When the moving tube-retrieving mechanism removes a test tube from any guide trough, the remaining test tubes in the trough naturally shift downwards under gravity to fill the empty space. The moving tube-retrieving mechanism only needs to repeatedly retrieve test tubes from the lower end of the guide trough. Typically, test tubes (such as blood collection tubes) are classified into nine categories based on the color of their caps. Although the patent illustration shows only four guide troughs, nine or more are usually required to accommodate different types of test tubes. This results in each type of test tube being dispensed from the guide trough through the reciprocating movement of the moving tube-retrieving mechanism. This causes the mechanism to continuously reciprocate in at least two of the X, Y, and Z directions, significantly increasing the probability of malfunction and affecting the overall lifespan of the equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a labeling machine for testing tubes, which solves the problem of high failure rates caused by using the same mechanism for feeding and transporting testing tubes in existing technologies.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a tube labeling machine, comprising a tube rack and a labeling mechanism, and further comprising a feeding mechanism and a material feeding mechanism used in conjunction with it.

[0008] The feeding mechanism is installed in conjunction with the testing tube rack to feed the testing tubes into the testing tube rack one tube at a time. The feeding mechanism is used to convey the fed testing tubes to the labeling mechanism for labeling. The labeled testing tubes are then discharged from the unloading port of the labeling mechanism.

[0009] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0010] In this invention, the existing integrated mobile tube-picking mechanism is configured as a feeding mechanism and a unloading mechanism. The unloading mechanism can unload individual test tubes placed on the test tube rack according to usage requirements. After unloading, the test tubes can be moved to the inlet of the labeling mechanism by the feeding mechanism and enter the labeling mechanism for labeling. After labeling, the test tubes are discharged from the unloading port. The labeling machine of this invention has a clear division of labor among its various mechanisms, which can effectively reduce the failure rate during use, increase the service life of the whole machine, and reduce maintenance costs.

[0011] Furthermore, the detection tube rack includes multiple guide troughs arranged side by side and at an angle, and there are multiple feeding mechanisms, each feeding mechanism working in conjunction with a corresponding guide trough;

[0012] The feeding mechanism includes a stop block disposed on the outer side of the lower end of the guide trough and a lifting block disposed between the stop block and the lower end of the guide trough. The stop block is used to intercept the detection tube, and the lifting block is used to lift the intercepted detection tube, so that the detection tube passes through the stop block under the action of external force for single tube feeding.

[0013] Furthermore, the lifting block has a "gate" shaped structure, including two opposing limiting sliders and a connecting plate connecting the two limiting sliders.

[0014] The connecting plate is provided with a connecting rod that penetrates the mounting bracket fixed on the detection tube rack.

[0015] The limiting slider is provided with a limiting protrusion protruding towards another limiting slider. The distance between the two limiting protrusions is less than the outer diameter of the cap of the detection tube and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body of the detection tube.

[0016] Furthermore, the lifting block is driven to move up and down by a lifting assembly.

[0017] The lifting assembly includes a first spring and a cam connected to a stepper motor. The cam abuts against a top plate fixed on a connecting rod. The first spring is sleeved on the connecting rod, with one end of the first spring fixed to the connecting rod and the other end of the first spring fixed to the mounting bracket. The rotation of the cam drives the lifting block to move up and down reciprocally.

[0018] Furthermore, there are two stops, which are fixedly connected to the two side walls of the feed chute via connecting blocks. The distance between the two stops is less than the outer diameter of the cap of the detection tube and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body of the detection tube.

[0019] Furthermore, the feeding mechanism is also equipped with a blocking block for use in conjunction with the material feeding mechanism. The blocking block is used to reduce the thrust of multiple detection tubes under the action of gravity. The blocking block is fixedly installed in the material guide trough and has an arc-shaped surface.

[0020] Furthermore, the feeding mechanism includes a baffle disposed at the unloading end of the detection tube rack and a feeding cup that reciprocates on the baffle.

[0021] The baffle has a discharge port on the moving path of the feeding cup. The feeding cup has a cavity structure for orienting the detection tube. The feeding cup moves so that the cavity structure is opposite to the discharge port, so that the detection tube passes through the discharge port vertically and enters the labeling mechanism.

[0022] Furthermore, the feeding cup includes a vertically arranged guide groove with a through-groove structure. Guide blocks protruding inward and extending along the length of the guide groove are respectively provided on the two side walls of the guide groove. The upper end of each guide block is an inclined surface that is inclined from the opening of the guide groove to the bottom of the guide groove.

[0023] The space between the two guide blocks forms a guide channel, which is arranged in a narrowing-then-expanding direction from the opening of the guide groove to the bottom of the guide groove.

[0024] The space between the inner bottom of the guide groove and the two guide blocks forms an arc-shaped placement space that is compatible with the structure of the detection tube, and the guide channel and the placement space form a cavity structure.

[0025] Furthermore, the upper end of the guide groove is provided with an extension plate extending outward along its bottom, and the extension plate is provided with a guide protrusion protruding towards the groove opening of the guide groove.

[0026] The guide groove is provided with a protrusion arranged along the length of the guide groove.

[0027] The guide groove sidewall is provided with mounting through holes for installing sensors.

[0028] Furthermore, the baffle is equipped with a sensing component for limiting the reciprocating movement distance of the feeding cup.

[0029] The sensing component includes two recessed optical sensors and sensor baffles arranged at intervals. The sensor baffles are fixed to the feeding cup and move with the material receiving cup and are used in conjunction with the two optical sensors.

[0030] Furthermore, the baffle has two downwardly inclined sections, and a horizontal section with a strip-shaped structure is formed between the lower ends of the two inclined sections. The horizontal section is positioned to contact the two inclined sections along its length, and the feeding cup slides back and forth along the length of the horizontal section.

[0031] The lower end of any inclined section is set at an obtuse angle to the horizontal section, forming a groove that facilitates the movement of the detection tube.

[0032] Furthermore, the labeling mechanism includes a base, a support frame, a drive roller, and a storage compartment. The support frame and the drive roller are mounted on the base, and the motor and the storage compartment are mounted on the support frame. The motor is connected to the drive roller via a transmission.

[0033] The upper opening of the storage compartment is set as the feed port of the labeling mechanism, the lower part of the storage compartment has a through hole, and the lower part of the storage compartment is equipped with a detection tube clamping assembly for use.

[0034] Furthermore, the detection tube clamping assembly includes a first driver, a base plate, a first connecting arm, a second connecting arm, a connector, and a bracket that can move along the x-axis on the base plate; a roller shaft is connected to one side of the bracket, and a connector is installed on the other side; one end of the first connecting arm is connected to the output end of the first driver, and the other end is hinged to one end of the second connecting arm; the tail end of the second connecting arm can reciprocate along the y-axis in the connector.

[0035] Furthermore, the detection tube clamping assembly includes a fixed plate, a second driver, a buffer, a telescopic rod, and a displacement frame; the second driver is slidably mounted on the fixed plate, a buffer is provided between the tail end of the second driver and the fixed plate, the front end of the second driver is connected to the displacement frame through the telescopic rod, and two rollers are rotatably connected on the displacement frame; the fixed plate includes a front horizontal plate and a tail vertical plate, and the buffer is disposed between the tail vertical plate and the second driver.

[0036] Furthermore, it also includes a lifting mechanism, which includes a lifting hopper communicating with the discharge port and a displacement component for driving the lifting hopper to rise and fall.

[0037] Furthermore, it also includes an external housing, the upper part of which is provided with a discharge port, and the housing is provided with an openable cover above the detection tube rack, the cover being connected to the housing by a locking mechanism;

[0038] The locking mechanism includes a positioning part and a locking part. The positioning part includes a load-bearing plate connected to the box cover and a positioning plate extending outward from one side of the load-bearing plate. The positioning plate is provided with a positioning groove with a through groove structure. The locking part includes a hollow fixed frame connected to the shell. The load-bearing plate is set inside the fixed frame and is movable inside the fixed frame. A limiting block is provided around the fixed frame and is slidably connected to the fixed frame.

[0039] When in use, flipping the lid moves the load-bearing plate, positioning plate, and positioning groove to the preset position. Sliding the limit block allows the limit block to engage or disengage with the positioning groove, locking or unlocking the lid and the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structural appearance of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the present invention without the outer shell (excluding the feeding mechanism);

[0042] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0043] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0044] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection tube rack, feeding mechanism, labeling mechanism, and lifting mechanism in this invention;

[0045] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection tube rack, the feeding mechanism, and the labeling mechanism in this invention;

[0046] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the box cover and the shell (upper part) of the present invention connected by a locking mechanism;

[0047] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the locking mechanism in this invention;

[0048] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning part in this invention;

[0049] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the locking part in this invention;

[0050] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in which the detection tube rack and the feeding mechanism are installed together in this invention;

[0051] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0052] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0053] Figure 14 for Figure 11 Enlarged view of the structure of section A in the middle;

[0054] Figure 15This is a schematic diagram of the structure in which the lifting component, the lifting block, and the mounting frame are installed together in this invention;

[0055] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the installation position relationship between the detection tube rack and the feeding mechanism in this invention;

[0056] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding mechanism in this invention;

[0057] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0058] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the baffle structure in this invention;

[0059] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding cup in this invention;

[0060] Figure 21 for Figure 20 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0061] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding cup containing the detection tube and sensor of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 23 This is a top view of the feeding cup of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the labeling mechanism in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping assembly in Embodiment 1 of the present invention without a roller shaft;

[0065] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping assembly in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 27 for Figure 26 Enlarged view of the structure of section B in the middle;

[0067] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the labeling mechanism in Embodiment 2 of the invention;

[0068] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping assembly in Embodiment 2 of the present invention without a roller shaft;

[0069] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping assembly in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 31 for Figure 30 Enlarged view of the structure of section C.

[0071] In the diagram: Shell 101, Outlet 102, Cover 103, Inlet 104, Action Plate 105, Locking Mechanism 1, Locking Part 11, Transition Plate 111, "Z"-shaped Plate 112, Limiting Plate 113, Fixing Frame 114, Installation Space 115, Limiting Block 116, Limiting Pin 117, Sliding Seat 118, Moving Handle 119, Positioning Part 12, Mounting Plate 121, Connecting Section 122, Load-bearing Plate 123, Reinforcing Rib 124, Positioning Groove 125, Positioning Plate 126, Detection Tube Frame 2, Side plate 21, Inclined plate 22, Mounting frame 23, Mounting strip 24, Guide chute 25, Support rod 26, Lifting block 6, Top plate 61, Cam 62, Limiting slider 63, Limiting protrusion 631, Connecting plate 64, First spring 65, Connecting rod 66, Rotating motor 67, Barrier block 8, Connecting block 7, Slide groove 71, Stop block 72, Feeding mechanism 3, Feeding cup 33, Guide protrusion 331, Extension plate 332, Guide groove 333, Mounting through hole 334, Guide block 335, Protrusion 3 36. Guide channel 339. Placement space 338. Through-beam infrared sensor 337. Detection tube 9. Tube body 91. Tube cap 92. Baffle 32. Discharge port 31. Second inclined plate 322. First inclined plate 323. Groove 321. Mounting base 34. Slider 341. Moving base 342. Stepper motor 343. Sensor baffle 344. Light sensor 345. Synchronous pulley 346. Synchronous belt 348. Labeling mechanism 4. Unloading chute 41. Unloading port 42. Base 43. Drive roller 44. Support Support frame 45, drive motor 46, storage bin 47, first driver 48, bracket 49, roller 410, telescopic rod 411, second driver 412, displacement frame 413, fixing plate 414, first positioning hole 415, tail end vertical plate 416, third spring 417, crossbar 418, limiting member 419, second connecting arm 420, second positioning hole 421, tail end 422, first connecting arm 423, limiting groove 425, connecting member 426, displacement assembly 5, lifting hopper 51. Detailed Implementation

[0072] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.

[0073] Example 1

[0074] like Figure 1As shown, a tube labeling machine includes a housing 101 and a machine body disposed within the housing 101. A hinged cover 103 is provided on the top of the housing 101. When the cover 103 is opened, the housing 101 forms a feed inlet 104, facilitating feeding and maintenance. A discharge outlet 102 is provided in the upper middle part of the housing 101, making it more suitable for operators and avoiding the problem of inconvenient tube removal caused by the discharge outlet 102 being too low. When designing the housing 101, considering impact resistance and pressure resistance, it is generally made of stainless steel or other metal materials, resulting in a relatively heavy overall weight. When feeding or maintaining the housing 101, the cover 103 needs to be flipped. Since the cover 103 and the housing 101 are made of the same material, this embodiment defines the connection relationship between the cover 103 and the housing 101, which facilitates the flipping of the cover 103 while ensuring that the cover 103 can be locked to the housing 101, ensuring safety during use.

[0075] Specifically, such as Figure 1 , 7 As shown in Figures 8, 9, and 10, a locking mechanism 1 is provided between the housing 101 and the lid 103. This locking mechanism 1 includes a positioning part 12 and a locking part 11 that are used in conjunction and are movably connected. The housing 101 is connected to the locking part 11, and the lid 103 is connected to the positioning part 12. The positioning part 12 includes a load-bearing plate 123 and a positioning plate 126 extending outward from one side of the load-bearing plate 123. The positioning groove 125 is provided on the positioning plate 126 in a through-groove structure. The installation angle between the positioning plate 126 and the load-bearing plate 123 can be limited according to design requirements to ensure that the rotation angle between the lid 103 and the housing 101 meets the requirements. In this embodiment, the load-bearing plate 123 and the positioning plate 126 are vertically connected. The load-bearing plate 123 and the lid 103 can be fixedly connected by bolts or welding. The locking part 11 includes a hollow fixed frame 114, the load-bearing plate 123 is disposed inside the fixed frame 114 and is movable inside the fixed frame 114, the limiting block 116 is disposed outside the fixed frame 114 and is slidably connected to the fixed frame 114, the load-bearing plate 123 passes through the fixed frame 114 and can rotate inside the fixed frame 114, and the fixed frame 114 and the housing 101 can be fixedly connected by bolts or welding. When in use, the feed inlet 104 needs to be opened, and external force is applied to the cover 103 to drive the cover 103 to rotate, so that the cover 103 rotates to the preset position. At this time, the positioning groove 125 on the positioning plate 126 rotates to the position where the limit block 116 can be inserted. Then slide the limit block 116, and the limit block 116 moves and enters the positioning groove 125, locking the positioning part 12 and the locking part 11. This prevents the cover 103 from falling back and closing the feed inlet 104 due to external impact or collision, thus avoiding damage to the operator at the feed inlet 104 or the feed detection tube 9.

[0076] like Figure 7 , 8 As shown in Figure 9, to facilitate the fixed connection between the load-bearing plate 123 and the box cover 103, a connecting section 122 is fixed on the other side of the load-bearing plate 123, which is arranged in the opposite direction to the extension of the positioning plate 126. The connecting section 122 is perpendicularly connected to the load-bearing plate 123 and is arranged parallel to the positioning plate 126. The connecting section 122 is fixedly connected to an mounting plate 121 that is arranged parallel to the load-bearing plate 123. The mounting plate 121 is welded and fixed to the box cover 103.

[0077] like Figure 8 , 9 As shown, to enhance the supporting effect of the load-bearing plate 123, the load-bearing plate 123 in this embodiment has a strip-shaped structure. The connecting section 122 and the positioning plate 126 are respectively arranged on the two short sides of the load-bearing plate 123 extending outward. The two long sides of the load-bearing plate 123 are respectively provided with reinforcing ribs 124 extending towards the connecting section 122. The arrangement of the two reinforcing ribs 124 can ensure the strength of the load-bearing plate 123. Furthermore, by setting the load-bearing plate 123, connecting section 122, positioning plate 126, mounting plate 121 and the two reinforcing ribs 124 into an integrated structure, the problem of easy cracking of the weld points caused by the plate-to-plate welding method can be avoided, thereby increasing the service life.

[0078] The above defines the structure of the positioning part 12. To better fit the locking part 11 and the positioning part 12, as follows... Figure 8 , 10As shown, in this embodiment, the fixing frame 114 includes two symmetrically arranged "Z"-shaped plates 112 and a limiting plate 113 connecting the two "Z"-shaped plates 112 between any horizontal segments of the two "Z"-shaped plates 112. The limiting block 116 is arranged on one side of the limiting plate 113, and the other side of the limiting plate 113 and the two "Z"-shaped plates 112 form an installation space 115 for the load-bearing plate 123 to be movably arranged. In this embodiment, the limiting plate 113 is connected to the end of one of the horizontal segments of the two "Z"-shaped plates 112. On the other horizontal segment of the two "Z"-shaped plates 112, transition plates 111 are respectively provided, which are connected to the upper part of the other horizontal segment of the "Z"-shaped plate 112 and extend away from the other "Z"-shaped plate 112. The transition plates 111 are perpendicular to the horizontal segment of the "Z"-shaped plates 112, and the transition plates 111 are welded and fixed to the top of the housing 101. The load-bearing plate 123 is located in the installation space 115 formed by the two "Z"-shaped plates 112 and the limiting plate 113, which facilitates the rotation of the load-bearing plate 123. A hollow sliding seat 118 is fixed on the other side of the limiting plate 113. The sliding seat 118 is fixedly connected to the limiting plate 113 by bolts. A through hole is provided on the sliding seat 118, and the limiting block 116 passes through the sliding seat 118 and is slidably connected to the sliding seat 118. To prevent the limiting block 116 from detaching from the sliding seat 118 and to facilitate the application of external force to move the limiting block 116, a moving handle 119 and a limiting pin 117 are respectively provided on both sides of the limiting block 116 on the sliding seat 118 to limit the sliding distance of the limiting block 116. The moving handle 119 is designed as a rod-shaped structure for easy lifting, and the limiting pin 117 protrudes outward along the limiting block 116. The extension length of the limiting pin 117 is set according to the width of the through hole of the sliding seat 118, which can prevent the limiting block 116 from separating from the sliding seat 118.

[0079] When the locking mechanism 1 is in use: When feeding or repairing the housing 101, external force controls the lid 103 to flip, causing the positioning groove 125 on the lid 103 to rotate to a preset position. At this time, the lid 103 needs to be locked to the housing 101. External force is applied to the limiting block 116, moving the limiting block 116 and inserting it into the positioning groove 125. At this time, the positioning part 12 and the locking part 11 are locked, and the lid 103 is also locked to the housing 101, preventing the lid 103 from rotating along the housing 101 due to external force during use, thus avoiding accidental injury to the user. When the lid 103 needs to be closed, the limiting block 116 is moved in the opposite direction, separating the limiting block 116 from the positioning groove 125. This unlocks the positioning part 12 and the locking part 11, allowing external force to rotate the lid 103 and close the housing 101.

[0080] The above structure defines the structure of the housing 101, the cover 103, and the locking mechanism 1 to ensure that the entire housing 101 can properly guide materials and perform maintenance, and to ensure the safety of the cover 103 during use. The component that performs the labeling operation on the detection tube 9 is implemented by the machine body inside the housing 101, and therefore, some parts of the machine body's structure are further defined.

[0081] like Figure 2-6 As shown, the machine body includes a test tube rack 2 for placing test tubes 9, a feeding mechanism 3 located at the discharge end of the test tube rack 2, a labeling mechanism 4 located below the test tube rack 2, and a lifting mechanism. The test tube rack 2 is equipped with a cooperating unloading mechanism. In use, different types of test tubes 9 are introduced into the housing 101 through the inlet 104 and placed in categories on the test tube rack 2. The unloading mechanism controls the unloading of individual test tubes 9 from the test tube rack 2. After unloading, the test tubes 9 are conveyed to the labeling mechanism 4 via the feeding mechanism 3 for labeling. The labeled test tubes 9 are then introduced into the lifting mechanism through the discharge port 42 of the labeling mechanism 4. The lifting mechanism then removes the labeled test tubes 9 from the housing 101.

[0082] The biggest difference between this invention and the prior art is that the current integrated mobile tube-picking mechanism has been split into a feeding mechanism and a material feeding mechanism 3. The feeding mechanism and the material feeding mechanism 3 work together to achieve the purpose of feeding and material feeding.

[0083] Both the unloading mechanism and the feeding mechanism 3 need to be installed in conjunction with the detection tube rack 2. The structure of the detection tube rack 2 is basically the same as that of existing technologies. Specifically, for example... Figure 11 , 12 As shown in Figure 13, the test tube rack 2 includes two oppositely arranged side plates 21 and an inclined plate 22 inclined between the two side plates 21. Multiple mounting strips 24 are arranged above the inclined plate 22 along its inclined direction. The mounting strips 24 are fixedly connected to the inclined plate 22 by support rods 26. The distance between the mounting strips 24 and the inclined plate 22 is adapted to the length of the test tube 9. Any two adjacent mounting strips 24 or the mounting strip 24 located at the edge and the side constitute a guide groove 25. Each guide groove 25 is used to place multiple test tubes 9 of the same type, and the multiple test tubes 9 are arranged in a row within the guide groove 25. Due to the inclined plate 22 and the mounting strips 24, the guide groove 25 is also inclined. Therefore, the multiple test tubes 9 arranged in the guide groove 25 can slide along the length of the guide groove 25 to the lower end of the guide groove 25 under the action of gravity, achieving the guiding of the test tubes 9 without the need for external driving force.

[0084] To enable single-tube feeding in each feed chute 25, a feeding mechanism is provided at the lower end of each feed chute 25. The feeding mechanism includes a stop block 72 for intercepting the detection tube 9 and a lifting block 6 that can move up and down to lift the detection tube 9.

[0085] Since each of these detection tubes 9 consists of a cap 92 and a body 91, and the outer diameter of the cap 92 is larger than that of the body 91, the detection tube 9 has an overall variable diameter tube structure. The feeding mechanism of this invention is designed based on the structural characteristics of the detection tube 9 to be fed; therefore, the structures of the stop block 72 and the lifting block 6 are also defined. For example... Figure 11 , 14 As shown, specifically, there are two stop blocks 72. The two stop blocks 72 are fixedly connected to the two side walls at the lower end of the guide trough 25 via connecting blocks 7. The connecting blocks 7 and the matching stop blocks 72 are integrated into one piece. The distance between the two stop blocks 72 is less than the outer diameter of the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9. The distance between the two stop blocks 72 can intercept the cap 92 of the detection tube 9. After the lifting block 6 lifts the detection tube 9, the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9 will be located between the two stop blocks 72 and can pass through the two stop blocks 72 for feeding under the subsequent gravity thrust of the detection tube 9.

[0086] like Figure 11 , 13 As shown in Figures 14 and 15, to enable the lifting block 6 and the stop block 72 to work together and achieve the lifting purpose, the lifting block 6 has a "door" shaped structure, including two opposing limiting sliders 63 and a connecting plate 64 connecting the two limiting sliders 63. The connecting plate 64 is provided with a connecting rod 66 that passes through the mounting bracket 23 fixed on the guide groove 25. The limiting slider 63 is provided with a limiting protrusion 631 protruding towards the other limiting slider 63. The distance between the two limiting protrusions 631 is less than the outer diameter of the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9. In use, the lifting block 6 is in the lower position. The detection tube 9 moves to the position of the two stop blocks 72 under the action of gravity and is intercepted. The two limiting protrusions 631 are located below the cap 92 of the intercepted detection tube 9 or in contact with the lower end of the cap 92, so that the detection tube 9 can be lifted. Then, control the lifting block 6 to move the detection tube 9 upward. The upward movement of the detection tube 9 makes the tube cap 92 of the detection tube 9 above the stop block 72. Under the gravity thrust of the subsequent detection tube 9, the detection tube 9 will pass between the two stop blocks 72 for material feeding.

[0087] When setting up, attention must be paid to the vertical length of the limiting protrusions 631. The length of the limiting protrusions 631 must ensure that after the entire lifting block 6 moves upward, the two limiting protrusions 631 can block the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 at the next position, so that after the lifting block 6 moves downward, the detection tube 9 at the next position can pass between the two limiting protrusions 631 and be intercepted by the two stops 72. This process is repeated to feed multiple detection tubes 9 in the same guide chute 25 one tube at a time.

[0088] To enable the lifting block 6 to move up and down, this invention provides a lifting assembly that works in conjunction with the lifting block 6 to drive the lifting block 6 to move up and down, such as... Figure 14 , 15 As shown, specifically, the lifting assembly includes a cam 62 and a first spring 65 used in conjunction. The cam 62 abuts against the top plate 61 fixed on the connecting rod 66. The cam 62 is connected to a rotary motor 67, which is fixed to the mounting bracket 23. The first spring 65 is sleeved on the connecting rod 66, with one end of the first spring 65 fixed to the connecting rod 66 and the other end fixed to the mounting bracket 23. The rotary motor 67 is a servo motor, which can be controlled by the overall control unit of the labeling machine. In use: when the detection tube 9 at the designated position is being unloaded, the control unit controls the rotary motor 67 at that position to start. The rotary motor 67 rotates, driving the cam 62 to rotate. The rotation of the cam 62 lifts the top plate 61, causing the connecting rod 66, the connecting plate 64, and the two limiting sliders 63 to move upward. Under the action of the two limiting protrusions 631, the detection tube 9 is lifted, and with the gravity thrust of the subsequent detection tube 9, it passes between the two stops 72 for unloading. After unloading is completed, the rotating motor 67 rotates in either the reverse or forward direction, causing the connecting rod 66 to reset under the action of the first spring 65. This drives the lifting block 6 to move downwards as a whole, causing the two limiting protrusions 631 to move downwards, facilitating the passage of the detection tube 9 in the rear position and its interception by the two stops 72. The lifting assembly can complete the lifting and resetting of the lifting block 6 by rotating the rotating motor 67 in one direction once, avoiding the problem of excessive motor wear and reduced motor life caused by the motor reciprocating at a certain angle (less than 360°) for a long time in the prior art.

[0089] like Figure 14 , 15 As shown, the connecting rod 66 is set through the mounting bracket 23, and the connecting rod 66 and the mounting bracket 23 can slide in a limited manner; in order to further ensure the sliding direction of the limiting slider 63, a groove 71 is provided on the connecting block 7, and the limiting slider 63 is slidably connected to the corresponding groove 71.

[0090] like Figure 11 , 13As shown in Figures 14 and 15, during use, the pushing force of multiple detection tubes 9 when guiding materials is driven by the gravity of the detection tubes 9. In order to reduce the impact of the subsequent detection tubes 9 on the material feeding and guiding, the feeding mechanism is also equipped with a blocking block 8 for cooperation. The blocking block 8 is used to reduce the pushing force of multiple detection tubes 9 under the action of gravity. The barrier block 8 is fixed to the mounting bracket 23 and is located behind the lifting block 6. The installation height of the barrier block 8 is adapted to the height of the subsequent detection tube 9. After the preceding detection tube 9 is unloaded, the subsequent detection tube 9 will move downward under the action of gravity. The height of the barrier block 8 remains unchanged. During the downward movement of the detection tube 9, its height decreases, allowing it to slide past the barrier block 8. When the subsequent sliding detection tube 9 moves to the position of the barrier block 8, due to the presence of the preceding detection tube 9, the detection tube 9 that has moved to the position of the barrier block 8 cannot move further downward to reduce its height and will be blocked by the barrier block 8. This effectively reduces the impact force on the subsequent detection tube 9 during its downward movement after the preceding detection tube 9 is unloaded. To reduce the resistance of the detection tube 9 sliding past the barrier block 8, the lower end of the barrier block 8 is provided with an arc-shaped curved surface. The arc-shaped curved surface effectively reduces friction and facilitates the passage of the detection tube 9.

[0091] Multiple guide troughs 25 can hold different types of detection tubes 9. The multiple detection tubes 9 in each guide trough 25 are arranged in a row. Since the opening position of the guide trough 25 remains unchanged, the discharge position of the detection tubes 9 discharged from the guide trough 25 can remain unchanged. Through the cooperation of the stop block 72, the lifting block 6 and the external driving force, the single discharge of the detection tube 9 can be realized, reducing the difficulty of guiding the detection tube 9 and facilitating the setting of the feeding mechanism 3.

[0092] The above defines the installation structure of the detection tube rack 2 and the feeding mechanism and the operating principle of the feeding mechanism. After feeding, the detection tube 9 will enter the feeding mechanism 3 for guiding, so that the detection tube 9 can smoothly enter the labeling mechanism 4 for labeling. Therefore, based on the above structure, the present invention further defines the feeding mechanism 3 that can be adapted to the detection tube rack 2 and the feeding mechanism.

[0093] Specifically, such as Figure 16 As shown, the feeding mechanism 3 includes a baffle 32 and a feeding cup 33 that reciprocates on the baffle 32. The baffle 32 is located below the lower ends of multiple guide grooves 25, and a discharge port 31 is provided on the baffle 32. The feeding cup 33 reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the multiple guide grooves 25. Figure 19As shown, to facilitate the installation of the baffle 32, the baffle 32 is provided with two downwardly inclined sections. A horizontal section with a strip structure is formed between the lower ends of the two inclined sections, and the horizontal section is arranged to contact the two inclined sections along its length. The feeding cup 33 slides back and forth along the length of the horizontal section. The lower end of any inclined section is set at an obtuse angle to the horizontal section, forming a groove 321 that facilitates the movement of the detection tube 9. In this embodiment, the baffle 32 is spliced ​​from a first inclined plate 323 and a second inclined plate 322, and the joint between the first inclined plate 323 and the second inclined plate 322 is set in an overlapping manner, which is more conducive to the fixed installation of the baffle 32 and the detection tube frame 2. At the same time, the groove 321 can be adapted to the bottom structure of the detection tube 9, which can effectively reduce the wear of the bottom of the detection tube 9 during use.

[0094] To ensure that the feeding cup 33 reciprocates on the baffle 32, so that the detection tube 9 feeding into different guide troughs 25 can be guided, such as... Figure 16 , 17 As shown in Figure 18, the feeding cup 33 is driven to reciprocate on the baffle 32 by a drive assembly. The drive assembly includes a mounting base 34 fixed to the baffle 32, two synchronous pulleys 346 axially arranged side by side on the mounting base 34, and a synchronous belt 348 sleeved on the two synchronous pulleys 346. Each synchronous pulley 346 is connected to a coaxially arranged stepper motor 343, and the feeding cup 33 is fixed to the synchronous belt 348. Figure 16 , 17 As shown in Figure 18, the mounting base 34 has a groove-shaped structure. The bottom of the mounting base 34 is fixedly connected to the baffle 32 by bolts. Two synchronous pulleys 346 are arranged along the length of the mounting base 34 and are suspended from the mounting base 34 by a rotating shaft rotatably connected to the side wall of the mounting base 34. The synchronous belt 348 is sleeved on the two synchronous pulleys 346. The rotation of the two synchronous pulleys 346 can drive the synchronous belt 348 to move in a ring. One of the synchronous pulleys 346 is connected to a coaxially arranged stepper motor 343, which is fixedly set to the mounting base 34. The feeding cup 33 is fixedly connected to a movable base 342, which is fixed to the synchronous belt 348. When the stepper motor 343 rotates, it drives the two synchronous pulleys 346 to rotate, and at the same time drives the synchronous belt 348 to rotate. The rotation of the synchronous belt 348 drives the guide groove 333 to move, thereby receiving material from the detection tube 9 of the guide groove 25 at different positions and guiding the material to the discharge port 31 for discharge.

[0095] like Figure 17 , 18 As shown, to ensure that the feeding cup 33 can move back and forth in a straight line along the set path, a slider 341 is provided at the bottom of the groove of the mounting base 34, which is arranged along the length of the mounting groove and is radially parallel to the synchronous wheel 346. The slider 341 is slidably connected to the moving base 342 that fixes the feeding cup 33. By limiting the movement of the slider 341, it is ensured that the feeding cup 33 moves back and forth in a straight line under the action of the drive assembly.

[0096] like Figure 17 , 18 As shown, the movement of the feeding cup 33 is controlled by a stepper motor 343. To prevent the stepper motor 343 from malfunctioning and causing the feeding cup 33 to deviate from its original design path, and to protect the feeding cup 33 and other components, a sensing component is provided on the mounting base 34 along the moving direction of the feeding cup 33 to limit the reciprocating movement distance of the feeding cup 33. The sensing component includes two spaced-apart recessed optical sensors 345 and a sensor baffle 344. The sensor baffle 344 is fixed to the feeding cup 33 and moves with it as it receives material, and works in conjunction with the two optical sensors 345. The two optical sensors 345 are respectively fixed at both ends of the mounting base 34 along its length, ensuring that the distance the feeding cup 33 moves between the two optical sensors 345 covers the entire material discharge end of the guide trough 25; the sensor baffle 344 is fixedly connected to the moving base 342. When the stepper motor 343 malfunctions, it continues to rotate, causing the feeding cup 33 and the sensor baffle 344 to move to the recessed position of the light sensor 345 and block the light sensor 345. This indicates that the feeding cup 33 has moved to the edge of the movable range. At this time, the control unit of the entire labeling machine can issue a control command to cut off the power to the stepper motor 343, thereby protecting the feeding cup 33 and its connecting parts.

[0097] Under the action of the drive assembly, the feeding cup 33 can receive and guide the detection tubes 9 from different guide troughs 25. However, since these detection tubes 9 all include a cap 92 and a body 91, the detection tubes 9 will tilt during the falling process due to the difference in gravity between their upper and lower parts. The feeding cup 33 needs to correct the orientation of the detection tubes 9 to ensure that the detection tubes 9 pass through the discharge port 31 vertically and enter the labeling mechanism 4 for labeling. Therefore, the structure of the feeding cup 33 is also limited.

[0098] like Figure 20-23As shown, the feeding cup 33 includes a vertically arranged guide groove 333 with a through-groove structure. Guide blocks 335 are respectively provided on the two side walls of the guide groove 333, protruding inwards and extending along the length of the guide groove 333. The upper end of each guide block 335 is an inclined surface extending from the opening of the guide groove 333 to the bottom of the guide groove 333. The space between the two guide blocks 335 forms a guide channel 339, which is first narrowed and then widened from the opening of the guide groove 333 to the bottom of the guide groove 333. The inner bottom of the guide groove 333 and the two guide blocks 335 form an arc-shaped placement space 338 adapted to the structure of the detection tube 9. Due to the special structure of the detection tube 9, which consists of a cap 92 and a tube body 91 with different outer diameters, the distance between the two guide blocks 335 can be adapted to the outer diameter of the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9, facilitating the passage of the inclined tube body 91. Since the detection tube 9 enters the guide groove 333 at an angle from the groove opening direction, and the guide channel 339 is adapted to the tube body 91, when the tube body 91 passes through the guide channel 339, the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 passes over the guide channel 339. The inclined surface set at the upper end of the guide block 335 allows the detection tube 9 to slide under the action of gravity. When the detection tube 9 moves, the cap 92 contacts the bottom of the guide groove 333 before the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9. After the cap 92 is intercepted by the guide groove 333, the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9 will also shift towards the position of the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 under the action of falling inertia until the entire detection tube 9 enters the placement space 338.

[0099] To better match the structure of the placement space 338 with that of the detection tube 9, such as Figure 23 As shown, the guide groove 333 in this embodiment has a U-shaped groove structure, and the rearward expansion position of the guide channel 339 coincides with the placement space 338. This type of guide channel 339 can both limit the tilted detection tube 9 and prevent the detection tube 9 from tilting when entering the placement space 338, so that the detection tube 9 falling into the guide groove 333 can remain basically vertical and move on the baffle 32 to the discharge port 31.

[0100] like Figure 20-22As shown, to facilitate the blocking of the cap 92 of the detection tube 9, an extension plate 332 extending outward along the bottom of the guide groove 333 is provided at the upper end of the guide groove 333. The extension plate 332 has a guide protrusion 331 protruding towards the opening of the guide groove 333. The space inside the guide groove 333 is divided into a guide channel 339 and a placement space 338, which makes the depth (width) of the guide groove 333 have certain requirements. During the descent of the detection tube 9, when the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 contacts the bottom of the guide groove 333, there is a problem that the overall tilt angle of the detection tube 9 is too large. At this time, the guide groove 333 needs to be provided with a larger space to ensure that the detection tube 9 can smoothly enter the placement space 338 for orientation correction. In order to facilitate the overall components and reduce the design size of the guide groove 333, the guide protrusion 331 is provided. The guide protrusion 331 will contact and intercept the cap 92 of the detection tube 9. At this time, the tilt angle of the detection tube 9 is relatively small. Therefore, the tube body 91 of the detection tube 9 can be slightly moved under the action of inertia to perform orientation correction and smoothly enter the placement space 338, so that the feeding cup 33 can be used in a relatively compact installation space 115.

[0101] To prevent excessive orientation correction (reverse deviation) of the detection tube 9, a protrusion 336 is provided in the guide groove 333 to cooperate with the guide protrusion 331 and to be arranged along the length of the guide groove 333. Figure 23 As shown, the protrusion 336 is located directly below the guide protrusion 331, and the distance between the end of the protrusion 336 and the bottom of the guide groove 333 is slightly less than the distance between the end of the guide protrusion 331 and the bottom of the guide groove 333. The protrusion 336 is such that when the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 is intercepted, the tube body 91 (tail end 422) of the detection tube 9 continues to move under inertia and is restricted after contacting the protrusion 336, reducing the vertical offset angle of the tube body 91, and it can maintain a basically vertical setting when falling into the placement space 338.

[0102] It is worth noting that the opening of the guide groove 333 may or may not be connected to the lower opening end of the guide groove 333. It is only necessary to ensure that the detection tube 9 can pass through the guide channel 339 and eventually enter the placement space 338. The detection tube 9 is finally discharged from the lower opening end of the guide groove 333. Therefore, whether the opening of the guide groove 333 is connected to the lower opening end of the guide groove 333 can be set according to actual needs.

[0103] To prevent the feeding cup 33 from "not receiving" during use, a mounting through hole 334 for mounting the sensor can be opened on the side wall of the guide groove 333. For example... Figure 20 , 21As shown in Figure 22, according to the length range of the detection tube 9, multiple mounting through holes 334 are provided on both sides of the guide groove 333, and the multiple mounting through holes 334 are arranged in a row along the length direction of the guide groove 333. In this embodiment, the sensor used is a through-beam infrared sensor 337. Mounting through holes 334 are provided at the upper, middle and lower parts of the side wall of each guide groove 333, and the positions of the three mounting through holes 334 on each side wall of the guide groove 333 are arranged opposite each other. The sensor set in the mounting through hole 334 at the upper part of the guide groove 333 is mainly used to detect whether the cap 92 of the detection tube 9 is in place. The sensors set in the middle and lower parts can be set according to the length of the detection tube 9.

[0104] The principle of feeding mechanism 3:

[0105] 1. The control unit of the labeling machine gives a signal that the detection tube 9 in the corresponding guide groove 25 needs to be picked up. At this time, the control unit controls the stepper motor 343 to rotate, driving the feeding cup 33 to move to the outlet 102 position of the corresponding guide groove 25 and making the groove opening of the guide groove 333 opposite to the lower opening of the guide groove 25.

[0106] 2. The control unit controls the rotation motor 67 of the feeding mechanism corresponding to the guide trough 25 to rotate. The rotation of the rotation motor 67 drives the cam 62 to rotate. The rotation of the cam 62 lifts the top plate 61, which drives the connecting rod 66, the connecting plate 64 and the two limit sliders 63 to move upward. Under the action of the two limit protrusions 631, the detection tube 9 is lifted. With the gravity thrust of the subsequent detection tube 9, the lifted detection tube 9 will pass between the two stops 72 for feeding.

[0107] 3. The detection tube 9 enters the feeding cup 33 and the through-beam infrared sensor 337 set on the guide groove 333 determines that the detection tube 9 has reached the preset position;

[0108] 4. Based on the signal fed back by the through-beam infrared sensor 337, the control unit ensures that the detection tube 9 is inside the feeding cup 33. The control unit controls the stepper motor 343 to rotate, driving the feeding cup 33 to move to the position of the upper and lower feeding ports 31 of the baffle 32. The detection tube 9 inside the feeding cup 33 passes through the lower feeding port 31 and enters the labeling mechanism 4 below, completing the guiding operation of the detection tube 9.

[0109] The above defines the structure of the feeding mechanism 3. The detection tube 9, which passes through the discharge port 31 of the baffle 32, will enter the labeling mechanism 4 for labeling operation. Therefore, the present invention further defines the structure of the labeling mechanism 4, which includes a clamping assembly, a base 43, a support frame 45, an active roller 44, and a storage bin 47.

[0110] like Figure 24As shown, the drive roller 44 is vertically arranged and rotatably connected to the horizontal plate on the support frame 45. The support frame 45 is fixed on the base 43. The support frame 45 has a vertical part for fixing the drive motor 46. The drive motor 46 is a servo motor. A rotating pulley is coaxially arranged on the output shaft of the drive motor 46. A driven pulley that cooperates with the rotating pulley is fixed on the drive roller 44. The rotating pulley and the driven pulley are driven by a belt. Thus, the rotation of the drive motor 46 can drive the drive roller 44 to rotate. The storage compartment 47 has a vertically arranged through-cavity structure. The storage compartment 47 is fixedly installed on the support frame 45. The upper end of the storage compartment 47 is opposite to the discharge port 31. The storage compartment 47 is diagonally above the drive roller 44. The lower part of the storage compartment 47 has a through hole. The clamping assembly is opposite to the storage compartment 47.

[0111] When using labeling mechanism 4:

[0112] The detection tube 9 passes through the discharge port 31 set in the baffle 32, is vertically discharged, and enters the storage chamber 47. The storage chamber 47 guides the detection tube 9, and the lower end of the detection tube 9, where it is to be labeled, falls to the preset position. The clamping component works to fit the detection tube 9 with the active roller 44. The active roller 44 is used in conjunction with the label conveying component of the automatic label printing machine, such as the label conveying component of the automatic label printing machine of the Meisong brand with models MS-LP212B and MS-LPB, or it can be the label conveying component of other existing brand and model automatic label printing machines (the specific principle can be referred to the principle described in the patent application with patent application number CN201720437334.4) to realize the labeling operation of the detection tube 9. After the labeling is completed, the clamping component works to release the detection tube 9, and the detection tube 9 is discharged from the discharge port 42 opened on the base 43.

[0113] In this embodiment, the main difference between the labeling mechanism 4 and existing technologies (such as the patent technology with patent publication number CN206562007U) lies in the improvement of the structure of the clamping assembly. Specifically, for example... Figure 25-27 As shown, the clamping assembly includes a fixed plate 414, a second driver 412, a buffer, a telescopic rod 411, and a displacement frame 413; two rollers 410 are rotatably connected to the displacement frame 413, the front end of the second driver 412 is connected to the displacement frame 413 through the telescopic rod 411, a buffer is provided between the tail end 422 of the second driver 412 and the fixed plate 414, and the second driver 412 is slidably mounted on the fixed plate 414.

[0114] like Figure 26As shown, two roller shafts 410 are rotatably connected to the displacement frame 413. The two roller shafts 410 are arranged parallel to the drive roller 44, and are vertically arranged and rotatably connected to the displacement frame 413. The two roller shafts 410 can press against the detection tube 9 without affecting the rotation of the detection tube 9. The displacement frame 413 is connected to the front end of the second driver 412 through a telescopic rod 411. The second driver 412 is slidably mounted on the fixed plate 414, and a buffer is provided between the tail end 422 of the second driver 412 and the fixed plate 414. The second driver 412 is slidably mounted on the fixed plate 414. Specifically, a guide rail can be installed on the fixed plate 414, and the second driver 412 can be slidably mounted on the guide rail; or a guide groove 333 can be opened on the fixed plate 414, and the second driver 412 can be embedded in the guide groove 333 so that the second driver 412 can be slidably mounted on the fixed plate 414; or a slide rail can be installed on the fixed plate 414, and a sliding block can be installed on the slide rail. The sliding block is fixedly connected to the second driver 412, and the sliding block slides along the slide rail to drive the second driver 412 to slide; so that the second driver 412 reciprocates along a straight path on the fixed plate 414.

[0115] When the clamping assembly is in operation, the second driver 412 drives the telescopic rod 411 to extend, causing the displacement frame 413 to move forward. Since there is also a limit body behind the item, the two rollers 410 on the displacement frame 413 gradually move forward and cooperate with the limit body behind the item to abut against the item from different directions, so that the limit body and the two rollers 410 together clamp the item. When it is necessary to clamp a larger item, the second driver 412 still drives the telescopic rod 411 to extend a set distance. The extension of the telescopic rod 411 causes the displacement frame 413 to move forward. After the rollers 410 abut against the item, the telescopic rod 411 continues to extend. Since the rollers 410 can no longer move forward, a force in the opposite direction is generated on the telescopic rod 411. A buffer is set between the tail end 422 of the second driver 412 and the fixed plate 414. The generated force in the opposite direction is transmitted from the telescopic rod 411 to the second driver 412. The second driver 412 slides backward to compress the buffer, thereby achieving the clamping of a larger item. The entire clamping assembly can clamp items of different sizes, making operation simpler and reducing the number of accessories, thus lowering costs.

[0116] To facilitate the linear movement of the displacement frame 413, the displacement frame 413 is slidably connected to the fixed plate 414. The sliding connection between the displacement frame 413 and the fixed plate 414 can refer to the sliding connection between the second driver 412 and the fixed plate 414. This ensures that when the second driver 412 drives the telescopic rod 411 to extend and move the displacement frame 413, the displacement frame 413 can move along a straight path, thus preventing the displacement frame 413 from deviating during movement and failing to clamp the item.

[0117] To facilitate the positioning and installation of the roller shaft 410 by the displacement frame 413, the displacement frame 413 includes a back plate, an upper horizontal plate and a lower horizontal plate. A pair of first positioning holes 415 are opened at corresponding positions on the upper and lower horizontal plates. The two first positioning holes 415 set at the top and bottom form a set. The upper and lower ends of a corresponding roller shaft 410 pass through the first positioning holes 415 of the upper and lower horizontal plates and are rotatably connected to the displacement frame 413 by a connector 426 (nut, etc.).

[0118] To facilitate the installation of the buffer component, a vertical plate is provided at the tail end 422 of the fixing plate 414. One end of the buffer component is fixedly connected to the vertical plate, and the other end is connected to the second driver 412, allowing for horizontal displacement adjustment of the second driver 412. The fixing plate 414 is L-shaped or other shapes to ensure that the buffer component can be installed horizontally. The buffer component can be a second spring, with one end fixedly connected to the vertical plate 416 at the tail end 422, and the other end fixedly connected to the tail end 422 of the second driver 412. When clamping a larger item, the second driver 412 drives the telescopic rod 411 to extend a predetermined distance. The telescopic rod 411 moves the displacement frame 413 forward, and the two rollers 410 on the displacement frame 413 abut against the item in advance. As the telescopic rod 411 continues to extend, the rollers 410 can no longer move forward, generating a counterforce. This counterforce is ultimately transmitted to the second driver 412, causing it to compress the second spring backward, thereby clamping the larger item.

[0119] like Figure 26 , 27 As shown, the structure of the buffer can also include a crossbar 418, a third spring 417, and a limiting member 419. The lower end of the second driver 412 passes through the crossbar 418. One end of the crossbar 418 is fixedly connected to the vertical plate 416 of the tail end 422, and the other end is fitted with the limiting member 419. The third spring 417 is fitted on the crossbar 418. One end of the third spring 417 is connected to the vertical plate of the tail end 422, and the other end is connected to the second driver 412. The crossbar 418 facilitates the directional movement of the second driver 412.

[0120] The second driver 412 can be a servo cylinder or a linear motor, etc., and can be electrically connected to the control unit of the labeling machine. After the detection tube 9 reaches the preset position, the control unit can control the second driver 412 to work, drive the displacement frame 413 to move toward the detection tube 9 and clamp the detection tube 9.

[0121] Because the labeling mechanism 4 is located below the detection tube rack 2, the distance between the detection tube 9 unloaded from the labeling mechanism 4 and the ground is relatively small, which does not meet the normal operating height for operators. Therefore, the present invention also includes a lifting mechanism, such as... Figure 4 , 5As shown, the lifting mechanism includes a lifting hopper 51 communicating with the discharge port 42 and a displacement component 5 for driving the lifting hopper 51 to move up and down. The displacement component 5 can be any reciprocating mechanism in the prior art, and is not limited in this embodiment. In a specific configuration, a threaded sleeve can be fixed on the lifting hopper 51, the threaded sleeve is connected to a lead screw, and the lead screw is driven by a servo motor. The lead screw is rotatably connected to the frame of the housing 101. In use, the control unit controls the servo motor to rotate in the forward and reverse directions, thereby driving the lead screw to rotate in the forward and reverse directions, and thus driving the lifting hopper 51 to move up and down.

[0122] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown, a discharge trough 41 is provided at the discharge port 42. When the lifting hopper 51 is at its lowest position, it can receive the detection tube 9 discharged from the discharge trough 41. After receiving the material, the lifting hopper 51 moves upward under the action of the displacement component 5 until the lifting hopper 51 communicates with the discharge port 102. Since the lifting hopper 51 has an inclined surface facing the discharge port 102, it facilitates the discharge of the detection tube 9. In order to enable the lifting hopper 51 to communicate with the discharge port 102, the discharge port 102 has an flared structure from the inside of the housing 101 to the outside of the housing 101. An action plate 105 is provided at the open end inside the discharge port 102. One end of the lifting hopper 51 is open and the open end moves in contact with the action plate 105. When the lifting hopper 51 moves upward under the action of the displacement component 5 after receiving the material, it can effectively intercept the detection tube 9 inside the lifting hopper 51 until the lifting hopper 51 and the discharge port 102 communicate and the detection tube 9 is discharged out of the housing 101.

[0123] Sensors can be installed on the unloading chute 41 or the labeling mechanism 4 to determine whether the labeling detection tube 9 has entered the lifting hopper 51, so that the control unit can control the displacement component 5 to drive the lifting hopper 51 to rise and connect with the discharge port 102 for discharge.

[0124] The lifting mechanism avoids the problem of operators having to bend over to pick up the labeled test tube 9, which is beneficial to operators.

[0125] It is worth noting that the present invention includes a control unit for controlling the operation of the aforementioned components. The control unit is a microcontroller or PLC control unit of the prior art. The aforementioned rotary motor 67, stepper motor 343, drive motor 46, sensor, first driver 48, second driver 412, automatic label printer, etc., are all electrically connected to the control unit, and the labeling operation of the corresponding detection tube 9 is realized through the control unit.

[0126] The electrical components involved in the control unit can be installed in the space below the detection tube rack 2, which is more conducive to the overall layout, making the labeling machine occupy less space and have a more compact design.

[0127] In this embodiment, the label affixed to the detection tube 9 can be a general barcode or QR code. The barcode and QR code can be printed and pasted by the labeling mechanism 4 in the prior art.

[0128] The aforementioned tags can also be RFID tags. RFID tags can be used to input information, facilitating the tracking of patient information and reducing the impact of operational errors. When the tag is an RFID tag, it can be affixed to the detection tube 9 after the information is input and detected; or the information input and detection operations can be performed on the detection tube 9 after it has been labeled (e.g., the technology described in patent application number CN201680030246.0); preferably, information input and detection can also be performed during the use of the labeling mechanism 4. Specifically, the design position can be adjacent to the active roller 44 and directly opposite the label position after labeling, with an RFID information input and detection component (e.g., the technology described in patent application number CN201680030246.0). Using this component, it can be effectively ensured that the RFID tag on the detection tube 9 has been input with relevant information, and the detection tube 9 is then unloaded from the labeling mechanism 4 after the information has been input.

[0129] Example 2

[0130] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that it provides a different structure for the clamping assembly, such as... Figure 28-31 As shown, the clamping assembly includes a first driver 48, a base plate, a first connecting arm 423, a second connecting arm 420, a connector 426, and a bracket 49 that can move along the x-axis on the base plate. The bracket 49 is connected to a roller shaft 410, and the connector 426 is mounted on its back. The first driver 48 passes through the base 43 and is fixedly connected to the head end of the first connecting arm 423. The tail end 422 of the first connecting arm 423 is rotatably connected to the head end of the second connecting arm 420. The tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 can reciprocate along the y-axis in the connector 426.

[0131] like Figure 29 , 30 As shown, the base plate is a flat plate, and a first driver 48 is vertically mounted on the base plate. The top of the first driver 48 is fixedly connected to one end of a first connecting arm 423; alternatively, the base plate is Z-shaped, with a through hole at the top, through which the bottom of the first driver 48 passes and connects to the first connecting arm 423. The tail end 422 of the first connecting arm 423 is hinged to the head end of the second connecting arm 420, and the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 is connected to a connector 426 on the bracket 49, and the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 can reciprocate within the connector 426.

[0132] When this clamping assembly is in use, the first driver 48 rotates to drive the first connecting arm 423 to swing. The second connecting arm 420, which is hinged to the first connecting arm 423, is subjected to forces in the x-axis and y-axis directions. The second connecting arm 420 drives the bracket 49 connected to it to move forward. At the same time, the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 moves in the positive y-axis direction in the connector 426. When the bracket 49 moves forward, the roller 410 connected to the bracket 49 gradually approaches the object. Since there is a limit body behind the object, the roller 410 cooperates with the limit body to clamp the object. If the object is large, when the bracket 49 moves forward, the roller 410 connected to the bracket 49 has already cooperated with the limit body to clamp the object, and the bracket 49 cannot continue to move forward, generating a reaction force. The reaction force drives the second connecting arm 420 to deflect in the opposite y-axis direction. At the same time, the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 moves in the opposite y-axis direction in the connector 426, thereby decomposing the unnecessary progress of the bracket 49. Since the first driver 48 is connected to the first connecting arm 423, the first connecting arm 423 is hinged to the second connecting arm 420, and the second connecting arm 420 can reciprocate along the y-axis in the connector 426, the clamping assembly can clamp items of different sizes, and has a simple structure that is easy to maintain and replace.

[0133] A hollow limiting groove 425 is provided on the connector 426. The tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 is provided, and the tail end 422 is engaged in the limiting groove 425 and can move in the limiting groove 425. The first driver 48 drives the first connecting arm 423 to swing. Since the first connecting arm 423 rotates to connect the second connecting arm 420, the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 is engaged in the limiting groove 425 on the connector 426. The swing of the first connecting arm 423 drives the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420 to move horizontally along the y-axis in the limiting groove 425. At the same time, the second connecting arm 420 drives the bracket 49 to move forward as a whole. If the item is large, after the roller 410 abuts against the item, the second connecting arm 420 shifts to the right, and the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm moves horizontally in the opposite direction along the y-axis in the limiting groove 425 to decompose the unnecessary process.

[0134] The two ends of the long, hollowed-out limiting groove 425 can be arc-shaped to match the circular cross-section of the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420, or the two ends of the long, hollowed-out groove can be straight to match the rectangular cross-section of the tail end 422 of the second connecting arm 420. The tail end 422 passes through the long, hollowed-out groove and its diameter is slightly smaller than the width of the long, hollowed-out groove. Limiting members 419 can be set at both ends of the tail end 422 that are close to the connecting member 426. The limiting member 419 can be a limiting nut, which is used to restrict the tail end 422 to move only horizontally in the long, hollowed-out groove and not vertically.

[0135] The upper part of the bracket 49 is provided with a second positioning hole 421 for positioning the roller shaft 410. The roller shaft 410 is rotatably connected to the bracket 49 through the second positioning hole 421. The bottom of the bracket 49 is slidably connected to the base plate. Specifically, it can adopt the sliding connection method between the second driver 412 and the fixed plate 414 in embodiment 4, so that the bracket 49 can reciprocate along a straight path during operation to accurately clamp the detection tube 9.

[0136] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0137] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of this invention is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not 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 a limitation of this invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

Claims

1. A tube labeling machine, comprising a tube rack (2) and a labeling mechanism (4), characterized in that: It also includes a feeding mechanism and a feeding mechanism (3) used in conjunction. The feeding mechanism is installed in conjunction with the test tube rack (2) to feed the test tubes (9) in the test tube rack (2) into single tubes. The feeding mechanism (3) is set at the feeding end of the test tube rack (2) to convey the fed test tubes (9) to the labeling mechanism (4) for labeling. The labeled test tubes (9) are discharged from the discharge port (42) of the labeling mechanism (4). The test tube rack (2) includes multiple guide grooves (25) arranged side by side and inclined. There are multiple feeding mechanisms, and each feeding mechanism is used in conjunction with the corresponding guide groove (25). The feeding mechanism includes a stop (72) set on the outer side of the lower end of the guide groove (25) and a lifting mechanism set between the stop (72) and the lower end of the guide groove (25). The lifting block (6) is used to block the detection tube (9) and lift the blocked detection tube (9) so that the detection tube (9) passes through the block (72) under the action of external force for single tube feeding; the lifting block (6) has a "door" shaped structure, including two oppositely arranged limiting sliders (63) and a connecting plate (64) connecting the two limiting sliders (63). The connecting plate (64) is provided with a connecting rod (66) that passes through the mounting bracket (23) fixed on the detection tube frame (2). The limiting slider (63) is provided with a limiting protrusion (631) protruding towards the other limiting slider (63). The distance between the two limiting protrusions (631) is less than the outer diameter of the tube cap (92) of the detection tube (9) and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body (91) of the detection tube (9).

2. The tube labeling machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lifting block (6) is driven to move up and down by a lifting assembly. The lifting assembly includes a first spring (65) and a cam (62) connected to a stepper motor (343). The cam (62) is abutted against the top plate (61) fixed on the connecting rod (66). The first spring (65) is sleeved on the connecting rod (66), and one end of the first spring (65) is fixed to the connecting rod (66), while the other end of the first spring (65) is fixed to the mounting bracket (23). The rotation of the cam (62) drives the lifting block (6) to move up and down reciprocally.

3. A tube labeling machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: There are two blocks (72). The two blocks (72) are fixedly connected to the two side walls of the guide trough (25) through the connecting block (7). The distance between the two blocks (72) is less than the outer diameter of the cap (92) of the detection tube (9) and greater than the outer diameter of the tube body (91) of the detection tube (9).

4. A tube labeling machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism is also equipped with a blocking block (8) for use. The blocking block (8) is used to reduce the thrust of multiple detection tubes (9) under gravity. The blocking block (8) is fixedly installed with the guide groove (25). The blocking block (8) has an arc surface.

5. A tube labeling machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism is also equipped with a blocking block (8) for use. The blocking block (8) is used to reduce the thrust of multiple detection tubes (9) under gravity. The blocking block (8) is fixedly installed with the guide groove (25). The blocking block (8) has an arc surface.

6. A tube labeling machine according to claim 1, 2 or 5, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism includes a baffle (32) set at the feeding end of the detection tube rack (2) and a feeding cup (33) that moves back and forth on the baffle (32). The baffle (32) has a feeding port (31) on the moving path of the feeding cup (33). The feeding cup (33) has a cavity structure for oriented correction of the detection tube (9). The feeding cup (33) moves so that the cavity structure is opposite to the feeding port (31) so that the detection tube (9) passes through the feeding port (31) vertically and enters the labeling mechanism (4).

7. A tube labeling machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The feeding cup (33) includes a vertically arranged guide groove (333) with a through-groove structure. On the two side walls of the guide groove (333), there are guide blocks (335) that protrude inward and extend along the length of the guide groove (333). The upper end of each guide block (335) is an inclined surface that is inclined from the opening of the guide groove (333) to the bottom of the guide groove (333). The space between the two guide blocks (335) forms a guide channel (339). The guide channel (339) is first narrowed and then expanded from the opening of the guide groove (333) to the bottom of the guide groove (333). The space between the inner bottom of the guide groove (333) and the two guide blocks (335) forms an arc-shaped placement space (338) that is adapted to the structure of the detection tube (9). The guide channel (339) and the placement space (338) form a cavity structure.

8. A tube labeling machine according to claim 7, characterized in that: The upper end of the guide groove (333) is provided with an extension plate (332) extending outward along the bottom of the groove, and the extension plate (332) is provided with a guide protrusion (331) protruding towards the groove opening of the guide groove (333); the guide groove (333) is provided with a protrusion (336) arranged along the length direction of the guide groove (333); the side wall of the guide groove (333) is provided with a mounting through hole (334) for mounting a sensor.

9. A tube labeling machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The baffle (32) is provided with a sensing component for limiting the reciprocating movement distance of the feeding cup (33). The sensing component includes two groove-shaped photosensitive sensors (345) and a sensor baffle (344) arranged at intervals. The sensor baffle (344) is fixed to the feeding cup (33) and moves with the receiving material and is used in conjunction with the two photosensitive sensors (345).

10. A tube labeling machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The baffle (32) is provided with a sensing component for limiting the reciprocating movement distance of the feeding cup (33). The sensing component includes two groove-shaped photosensitive sensors (345) and a sensor baffle (344) arranged at intervals. The sensor baffle (344) is fixed to the feeding cup (33) and moves with the receiving material and is used in conjunction with the two photosensitive sensors (345).

11. A tube labeling machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The baffle (32) is provided with two inclined sections that are relatively inclined downward. A horizontal section with a strip structure is formed between the lower ends of the two inclined sections. The horizontal section is in contact with the two inclined sections along the length direction. The feeding cup (33) slides back and forth along the length direction of the horizontal section. The lower end of any inclined section is set at an obtuse angle with the horizontal section and forms a groove (321) that facilitates the movement of the detection tube (9).

12. A tube labeling machine according to claim 10, characterized in that: The baffle (32) is provided with two inclined sections that are relatively inclined downward. A horizontal section with a strip structure is formed between the lower ends of the two inclined sections. The horizontal section is in contact with the two inclined sections along the length direction. The feeding cup (33) slides back and forth along the length direction of the horizontal section. The lower end of any inclined section is set at an obtuse angle with the horizontal section and forms a groove (321) that facilitates the movement of the detection tube (9).

13. A tube labeling machine according to claim 7, 8 or 9, characterized in that: The baffle (32) is provided with two inclined sections that are relatively inclined downward. A horizontal section with a strip structure is formed between the lower ends of the two inclined sections. The horizontal section is in contact with the two inclined sections along the length direction. The feeding cup (33) slides back and forth along the length direction of the horizontal section. The lower end of any inclined section is set at an obtuse angle with the horizontal section and forms a groove (321) that facilitates the movement of the detection tube (9).

14. A labeling machine for testing tubes according to claim 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11 or 12, characterized in that: The labeling mechanism (4) includes a base (43), a support frame (45), an active roller (44), and a storage compartment (47). The support frame (45) and the active roller (44) are installed on the base (43). The motor and the storage compartment (47) are installed on the support frame (45). The motor is connected to the active roller (44) for transmission. The upper opening of the storage compartment (47) is set as the feed port (104) of the labeling mechanism (4). The lower part of the storage compartment (47) is provided with a through hole. The lower part of the storage compartment (47) is provided with a detection tube (9) clamping assembly for use.

15. A labeling machine for testing tubes according to claim 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11 or 12, characterized in that: It also includes a lifting mechanism, which includes a lifting hopper (51) communicating with the discharge port (42) and a displacement component (5) for driving the lifting hopper (51) to rise and fall.

16. A labeling machine for testing tubes according to claim 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11 or 12, characterized in that: It also includes an external housing (101), the upper part of which is provided with a discharge port (102), and the housing (101) is provided with a box cover (103) that can be opened and closed above the detection tube frame (2). The box cover (103) is connected to the housing (101) through a locking mechanism (1).

17. A tube labeling machine according to claim 16, characterized in that: The locking mechanism (1) includes a positioning part (12) and a locking part (11). The positioning part (12) includes a load-bearing plate (123) connected to the box cover (103) and a positioning plate (126) extending outward from one side of the load-bearing plate (123). The positioning plate (126) is provided with a positioning groove (125) with a through groove structure. The locking part (11) includes a hollow fixing frame (114) connected to the shell (101). The load-bearing plate (123) is set on the fixing frame. (114) is installed inside and movable within the fixed frame (114). A limiting block (116) is provided on the periphery of the fixed frame (114) and is slidably connected to the fixed frame (114). When in use, flipping the box cover (103) drives the load-bearing plate (123), positioning plate (126) and positioning groove (125) to move to the preset position. Sliding the limiting block (116) allows the limiting block (116) to be inserted into or separated from the positioning groove (125), so that the box cover (103) is locked or unlocked from the shell (101).

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