Crimping device and crimping method

Abstract

This invention provides a crimping device and method for crimping and fixing terminals to flexible conductive elements. The crimping device has a stationary cutter, a movable cutter, a riveting member, and a positioning member. The movable cutter is located behind the stationary cutter, the riveting member is located above the movable cutter, and the positioning member is located behind the stationary cutter. The positioning member can float independently relative to the movable cutter. The positioning member has a receiving groove and limiting portions located on both sides of the receiving groove, so that the distance between the material strip and the stationary cutter edge is greater than the distance between the crimping portion of the terminal and the conductive element. This ensures that during the crimping process, the crimping portion first pierces the predetermined crimping point of the conductive element, and then the terminal separates from the material strip. This avoids the conductive element being pulled away from the predetermined crimping point before being pierced by the crimping portion, thus reducing the scrap rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a crimping device and a crimping method, and more particularly to a crimping device and a crimping method for crimping and fixing terminals to conductive elements. Background Technology

[0002] A conventional crimping device for fixing FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) to terminals includes a stationary cutter that holds the terminal crimping portion, a movable cutter located in front of the stationary cutter, the blade of the movable cutter being above the terminal strip connected to the crimping portion, and the blade of the stationary cutter being below the crimping portion. The crimping device also includes a crimping member located above, the crimping member including a crimping part and a pressing part located in front of the crimping part, the crimping part being above the stationary cutter, and the pressing part being above the movable cutter. A portion of the FPC is placed between the terminal crimping portion and the crimping part of the crimping member, and a portion is placed between the movable cutter and the pressing part of the crimping member. During crimping, the crimping member moves downward, the crimping part presses down on the FPC below it, causing the crimping portion to pierce and crimp to the FPC, and the pressing part presses down on the movable cutter across the FPC below it, causing the blade of the movable cutter to descend and engage with the blade of the stationary cutter, thereby cutting the strip. During the riveting process described above, in order to cut the material strip, the pressing part needs to be pressed further down relative to the riveting part. This causes a height difference to form between the FPC below the pressing part and the FPC below the riveting part, and the FPC is subjected to a certain degree of shearing force, which pulls on the FPC and poses a risk of FPC breakage. In addition, during the above riveting process, cutting the terminal material strip before piercing and riveting the FPC may cause it to be pulled away from the predetermined riveting point, resulting in scrap. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the prior art, the present invention provides a crimping device and crimping method for crimping and fixing terminals and flexible conductive elements. The distance between the material strip and the stationary cutting edge is greater than the distance between the crimping part of the terminal and the conductive element, so that during the crimping process, the crimping part first pierces the predetermined crimping point of the conductive element, and then the terminal separates from the material strip. This avoids the situation in the prior art where the conductive element is pulled away from the predetermined crimping point before being pierced by the crimping part, thus reducing the scrap rate.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention employs the following technical means: A crimping device for crimping and fixing a crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element, wherein the terminal is connected to a strip, comprising: a stationary cutter having a stationary blade edge; a movable cutter located behind the stationary cutter, the upper surface of the movable cutter being used to mount the terminal, the strip extending beyond the movable cutter and located below the stationary blade edge, the movable cutter being capable of moving upward relative to the stationary cutter to directly push the crimping portion upward, while simultaneously causing the strip to follow the crimping portion upward; a riveting member located above the movable cutter, the conductive element being disposed between the riveting member and the crimping portion, the riveting member being capable of moving downward, the bottom of the riveting member having a groove; and a positioning member located at the... Behind the stationary cutter, the positioning member floats independently relative to the moving cutter. It has a receiving groove and limiting portions on both sides of the receiving groove. The limiting portions can rise to both sides of the crimping portion, positioning the crimping portion in the receiving groove to restrict its left and right movement. When the moving cutter is initially stationary, the distance between the material strip and the stationary cutter edge in the vertical direction is greater than the distance between the top of the crimping portion and the conductive element. This allows the crimping portion to pass through the conductive element first during the rising process of the moving cutter, and then the material strip contacts the stationary cutter edge and is cut off from the terminal. The crimping portion then enters the groove to be crimped to the conductive element by the riveting member.

[0005] Furthermore, it also includes a limiting member located above the movable cutter and descending simultaneously with the riveting member. The terminal includes a guide portion connected to the crimping portion. The riveting member is disposed above the crimping portion, and the limiting member is disposed above the guide portion. The bottom of the limiting member has a limiting groove. During the crimping process, the guide portion enters the limiting groove and is limited by the limiting member.

[0006] Furthermore, it also includes a first linkage mechanism, which is directly or indirectly connected to the same drive mechanism as the riveting member; a second linkage mechanism, which is connected to the positioning member, and before the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism cooperate to drive the positioning member to move; and a third linkage mechanism, which is connected to the movable cutter, and after the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism and the third linkage mechanism cooperate to drive the movable cutter to move.

[0007] Furthermore, the first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a shoulder for the second linkage mechanism to engage with. The second linkage mechanism is a lever with an engagement portion that engages with the shoulder and a first connecting portion that connects to the positioning member. A second reset member that is pre-compressed in the vertical direction is connected below the positioning member. The shoulder can descend to provide clearance for the descent of the engagement portion. When the second reset member is decompressed, the second reset member pushes the positioning member upward through its own elastic restoring force.

[0008] Furthermore, the first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a downwardly extending pressing portion. The third linkage mechanism is a lever with a pressing portion located below the pressing portion and a second connecting portion connected to the movable cutter. When the actuating member descends, the pressing portion presses down against the pressing portion, and the second connecting portion drives the movable cutter to rise together.

[0009] Furthermore, the movable cutter includes a main body and a first protrusion protruding forward from the main body. The crimping part is placed on the first protrusion. The end of the first protrusion has a movable cutting edge that cooperates with the stationary cutting edge. The receiving groove receives the first protrusion. The positioning member can float upward along the first protrusion so that the limiting part is higher than the crimping part before the movable cutter rises.

[0010] Furthermore, the positioning member is located between the static cutter and the main body, and the depth of the receiving groove is greater than the sum of the thickness of the first protrusion and the thickness of the pressing part.

[0011] Furthermore, the static cutting tool has a guide groove that extends through the static cutting tool in the left-right direction and opens to the rear. The bottom wall of the guide groove is aligned with the top surface of the stationary moving cutting tool to accommodate the material strip. The rear edge of the top wall of the guide groove serves as the static cutting edge.

[0012] A crimping method for crimping and fixing a crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element includes: providing a crimping device having a stationary cutter, a movable cutter, a riveting member, and a positioning member, wherein the movable cutter is located behind the stationary cutter, the riveting member is located above the movable cutter, and the positioning member is located behind the stationary cutter, the positioning member being capable of floating independently relative to the movable cutter, and the positioning member having a receiving groove and limiting portions located on both sides of the receiving groove; providing the conductive element and the terminal, the terminal being connected to a strip; placing the terminal on top of the movable cutter, the crimping portion being located between the movable cutter and the riveting member, and the strip being located at the edge of the stationary cutter. Below; place the conductive element between the crimping part and the riveting member; activate the crimping device, first allowing the limiting part of the positioning member to rise to both sides of the crimping part, positioning the crimping part in the receiving groove to restrict the left and right movement of the crimping part; then, allow the moving cutter to push the terminal upward, causing the crimping part to pass upward through the conductive element; then, the moving cutter continues to push the terminal upward, causing the material strip connected to the terminal to contact the stationary blade of the stationary cutter, allowing the stationary blade to cooperate with the moving cutter to cut the connection between the material strip and the terminal, allowing the riveting member to touch the crimping part and crimp the crimping part to the conductive element.

[0013] Furthermore, the crimping device also includes a first linkage mechanism, which is directly or indirectly connected to the same drive mechanism as the riveting member; a second linkage mechanism, which is connected to the positioning member; and a third linkage mechanism, which is connected to the movable cutter. When the crimping device is activated, the first linkage mechanism descends. The first linkage mechanism first engages with the second linkage mechanism, and before the limiting part rises to both sides of the crimping part, the second linkage mechanism drives the positioning member to rise. After the limiting part rises to both sides of the crimping part, the first linkage mechanism disengages from the second linkage mechanism and continues to descend to engage with the third linkage mechanism, causing the third linkage mechanism to drive the movable cutter to rise.

[0014] Furthermore, while the positioning member rises, the riveting member descends, and the riveting member does not contact the pressing part before the positioning member stops.

[0015] Furthermore, as the moving cutter rises, the riveting component descends.

[0016] The above-mentioned technical means have the following technical effects: before the moving cutter rises, the distance between the material strip and the stationary blade is greater than the distance between the crimping part and the conductive element, so that during the crimping process, the crimping part first passes through the predetermined crimping point of the conductive element, and then the terminal separates from the material strip, avoiding the situation in the prior art where the conductive element is pulled away from the predetermined crimping point before being passed through by the crimping part, thus reducing the scrap rate.

[0017] A crimping device for crimping and fixing a crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element, wherein the terminal is connected to a strip, comprising: a stationary cutter having a stationary blade edge; a movable cutter located behind the stationary cutter, the upper surface of the movable cutter being used to mount the terminal, the strip extending beyond the movable cutter and located below the stationary blade edge, the movable cutter being capable of moving upward relative to the stationary cutter to directly push the crimping portion upward, while simultaneously causing the strip to follow the crimping portion upward; a riveting member located above the movable cutter, the conductive element being disposed between the riveting member and the crimping portion, the riveting member being capable of moving downward, the bottom of the riveting member having a groove for crimping and fixing the crimping portion to the conductive element; and a positioning member located behind the stationary cutter, relative to... The movable cutting blade floats independently. The positioning member has a receiving groove and limiting portions located on both sides of the receiving groove. The limiting portions can rise to both sides of the crimping portion, positioning the crimping portion in the receiving groove to restrict the left and right movement of the crimping portion. A first linkage mechanism is directly or indirectly connected to the riveting member through the same drive mechanism and descends simultaneously. A second linkage mechanism remains connected to the positioning member, and before the limiting portions rise to both sides of the crimping portion, the first linkage mechanism cooperates with the second linkage mechanism to drive the positioning member to rise. A third linkage mechanism remains connected to the movable cutting blade, and after the limiting portions rise to both sides of the crimping portion, the first linkage mechanism cooperates with the third linkage mechanism to drive the movable cutting blade to rise.

[0018] Furthermore, the first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a shoulder for the second linkage mechanism to engage with. The second linkage mechanism is a lever with an engagement portion that engages with the shoulder and a first connecting portion that connects to the positioning member. A second reset member that is pre-compressed in the vertical direction is connected below the positioning member. The shoulder can descend to provide clearance for the descent of the engagement portion. When the second reset member is decompressed, the second reset member pushes the positioning member upward through its own elastic restoring force.

[0019] Furthermore, both the first reset member and the second reset member are springs, and the elastic force of the first reset member is greater than that of the second reset member.

[0020] Furthermore, the first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a downwardly extending pressing portion. The third linkage mechanism is a lever with a pressing portion located below the pressing portion and a second connecting portion connected to the movable cutter. When the actuating member descends, the pressing portion presses down against the pressing portion, and the second connecting portion drives the movable cutter to rise together.

[0021] Furthermore, the moving cutter includes a main body and a second protrusion protruding forward from the main body, and a third resetting member that can extend and retract vertically is connected between the second protrusion and the frame.

[0022] Furthermore, the movable cutter includes a main body and a first protrusion protruding forward from the main body. The crimping part is placed on the first protrusion. The end of the first protrusion has a movable cutting edge that cooperates with the stationary cutting edge. The receiving groove receives the first protrusion. The positioning member can float upward along the first protrusion so that the limiting part is higher than the crimping part before the movable cutter rises.

[0023] Furthermore, the positioning member is located between the static cutter and the main body, and the depth of the receiving groove is greater than the sum of the thickness of the first protrusion and the thickness of the pressing part.

[0024] Furthermore, the static cutting tool has a guide groove that extends through the static cutting tool in the left-right direction and opens to the rear. The bottom wall of the guide groove is aligned with the top surface of the stationary moving cutting tool to accommodate the material strip. The rear edge of the top wall of the guide groove serves as the static cutting edge.

[0025] The above-mentioned technical means have the following technical effects: during the crimping process, the riveting component and the moving cutter move towards each other to complete the crimping, and the displacement of the conductive element is small, which is beneficial to providing crimping accuracy; moreover, the moving cutter is driven by the same driving mechanism as the riveting component using the first linkage mechanism, the third linkage mechanism and the riveting component, which makes it easy to control the crimping force and adjust the crimping stroke. Attached Figure Description Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the terminals and the material strip; Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the crimping device and driving mechanism of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the crimping device in the middle; Figure 4 for Figure 3 Partial exploded view; Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the static cutter separated from other components in the crimping device of the present invention; Figure 6 In order to be in Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the placement of terminals and material strips; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the positioning component rising and the terminal crimping part being accommodated in the receiving groove of the positioning component; Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the placement of flexible conductive elements, terminals, and strips in the crimping device of the present invention; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the positioning component rising and the terminal crimping part being accommodated in the receiving groove of the positioning component; Figure 10 for Figure 9 Enlarged view of section A; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal crimping portion piercing the flexible conductive element in the first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 for Figure 11 A partially enlarged schematic diagram shows that the crimping part pierces the crimping section and the material strip is not disconnected from the terminal; Figure 13 A schematic diagram showing the crimping part piercing the crimping section and the strip breaking off from the terminal; Figure 14 A schematic diagram showing how the crimping part of the crimping section is bent and crimped to fix it in place by the riveting component; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal crimping portion piercing the flexible conductive element in the second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 for Figure 15 Enlarged view of section B.

[0026] Explanation of icon numbers: Upper base 1 Riveted parts 2 Groove 21 Limiting component 3 Limiting groove 31 Moving cutter 4 Main body 41 First protrusion 42 Second protrusion 43 Static cutting knife 5 Guide groove 51 Static knife edge 52 Second reset component 6 Positioning component 7 Containment Slot 71 Limiting part 72 Third reset component 8 9 pads First linkage mechanism L1 L11 bracket Actuator L12 Guidance unit L121 First reset component L13 Actuator L122 Shoulder L1221 Pressure section L1222 Second linkage mechanism L2 Overlap part L21 First connecting part L22 Third linkage mechanism L3 Pressure-bearing part L31 Second connecting part L32 Terminal T crimping part T1 Conductor T2 Material belt S Flexible conductive element F crimp section F1 Drive mechanism D Motor D1 Cam transmission mechanism D2 Rack J Detailed Implementation

[0027] To facilitate a better understanding of the purpose, structure, features, and effects of this invention, the invention will now be further described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0028] The crimping device C of the present invention is mainly used to crimp and fix the terminal T connected to the material strip S to the flexible conductive element F (e.g., FPC), and to separate the material strip S from the terminal T during the crimping process. The terminal T, material strip S, and flexible conductive element F are the materials processed by the crimping device C. To facilitate a clearer understanding of the present invention, the above materials will first be described. Figure 1 As shown, each terminal T includes an interconnected conductive portion T2 and a crimping portion T1. The conductive portion T2 is used to conduct with a mating terminal T (not shown) of a mating element. The crimping portion T1 has multiple spikes capable of piercing the flexible conductive element F and maintaining contact with the conductive lines (not shown) on the flexible conductive element F. The spikes can be bent and crimped to the flexible conductive element F. The tape S connects multiple terminals T simultaneously. The tape S connects to the end of the crimping portion T1. In other embodiments, the tape S may connect to other parts of the terminal T, or the tape S may connect only one terminal T. This invention is not limited in this respect. (Reference) Figure 10 The flexible conductive element F is used to press and fix the pressing part T1 in a pressing section F1. In the embodiments described below, the pressing section F1 is located at the end of the flexible conductive element F. In other embodiments, the pressing section F1 can be set in other positions, and the present invention does not limit this.

[0029] The crimping device C is a component of a complete automated machine (not shown). Figure 2 The image shows the crimping device C, the drive mechanism D connected thereto, and the frame J supporting and fixing the crimping device C and the drive mechanism D. The drive mechanism D includes a motor D1 and a cam transmission mechanism D2. The motor D1 is fixed to the top of the frame J, and the cam transmission mechanism D2 connects the motor D1 and the crimping device C, converting the rotational momentum of the motor D1 into vertical momentum to drive a portion of the components in the crimping device C to move vertically. The crimping device C is located in the lower half of the frame J, with its main portion exposed in an open working space for the material to enter the crimping device C.

[0030] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the crimping device C has an upper base 1 connected to the cam transmission mechanism D2. The upper base 1 moves up and down under the guidance of the frame J. The upper base 1 is fixed with a downwardly protruding crimping member 2, a limiting member 3, and a first linkage mechanism L1. The bottom of the crimping member 2 has a groove 21 (auxiliary reference). Figures 12-14During the crimping process, the rivet 2 abuts against the flexible conductive element F downwards, and the thorn passes through the flexible conductive element F and abuts against the groove wall of the groove 21, bending and deforming, thereby being crimped and fixed to the flexible conductive element F.

[0031] like Figure 5 As shown, the limiting member 3 is located behind the riveting member 2. The bottom of the limiting member 3 has a limiting groove 31, which accommodates the guide part T2 during the crimping process, thereby limiting the guide part T2. In other embodiments, the riveting member 2, the limiting member 3, and the first linkage mechanism L1 can be configured to be directly connected to the drive mechanism D.

[0032] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the first linkage mechanism L1 is located behind the limiting member 3, and includes a bracket L11 fixed to the frame J, an actuator L12 that can move up and down with the upper base 1, and a first reset member L13. The actuator L12 is generally in the shape of an inverted tuning fork, and its length extends downward beyond the riveting member 2 and the limiting member 3. The actuator L12 includes a guide portion L121 passing through the bracket L11 and an actuator portion L122 that branches to the left and right below the guide portion L121. The actuator portion L122 protrudes in the left and right direction relative to the guide portion L121 and the bracket L11, forming two shoulders L1221. The actuator portion L122 extends downward from the two shoulders L1221 to form two pressing portions L1222. The shoulders L1221 and the pressing portions L1222 are used to cooperate with other components described later. A portion of the bracket L11 is located between the two pressing portions L1222. This portion of the bracket L11 has a first reset member L13 on its upper side that pushes the actuator L12 upwards, helping the actuator L12 to reset upwards. In this embodiment, the first reset member L13 is a spring, providing an upward reset force for the actuator L12. In other embodiments, it can be replaced with a cylinder, motor D1, or other components that can achieve the same reset effect; this invention does not limit this.

[0033] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the crimping device C also has a movable cutter 4 and a stationary cutter 5 located below the upper base 1 and supported by the frame J. The movable cutter 4 is located below the riveting member 2 and the limiting member 3, and also behind the stationary cutter 5, for placing a single terminal T. In other embodiments, multiple movable cutters 4 and multiple stationary cutters 5 may be provided, or multiple terminals T may be placed simultaneously on a single movable cutter 4; the present invention does not limit this.

[0034] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, the movable cutter 4 extends generally vertically and includes a main body 41, a first protrusion 42 and a second protrusion 43 protruding forward from the front side of the main body 41, with the first protrusion 42 located below the second protrusion 43. The movable cutter 4 can move upward relative to the stationary cutter 5. The top surface of the main body 41 and the top surface of the first protrusion 42 are coplanar. The guide part T2 is placed on the top surface of the main body 41, and the main body 41 is located below the limiting member 3, supporting the limiting member 3 upward during the pressing process. The pressing part T1 is placed on the top surface of the first protrusion 42, which is located below the riveting member 2. During the pressing process, the first protrusion 42 directly pushes the pressing part T1 upward, causing the pressing part T1 to meet the riveting member 2. The riveting member 2 presses and fixes the pressing part T1 to the flexible conductive element F. Simultaneously, the material strip S rises along with the crimping part T1, and the front edge of the end of the first protrusion 42 serves as a moving blade. This moving blade is located below the connection point between the crimping part T1 and the material strip S. The moving cutter 4, during the rising of the material strip S, can cooperate with the stationary cutter 5 to cut off the connection between the crimping part T1 and the material strip S. In this embodiment, the left-right width of the first protrusion 42 is smaller than the left-right width of the main body 41.

[0035] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the frame J is disposed in front of the main body 41 and between the first protrusion 42 and the second protrusion 43. Above this portion of the frame J, the static cutting blade 5, the second reset member 6, and a positioning member 7 supported by the second reset member 6 are disposed; below this portion of the frame J, a third reset member 8 connected to the second protrusion 43 is disposed.

[0036] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, the stationary cutter 5 is located in front of the first protrusion 42. The upper part of the stationary cutter 5 has a guide groove 51 that extends through the stationary cutter 5 in a left-right direction and opens rearward. The bottom wall of the guide groove 51 is aligned with the top surface of the stationary moving cutter 4. The rear edge of the top wall of the guide groove 51 serves as a stationary cutting edge 52 that cooperates with the moving cutting edge. The material strip S extends forward beyond the first protrusion 42 and enters the guide groove 51, located below the stationary cutting edge 52. During the crimping process, the moving cutter 4 rises relative to the stationary cutter 5, directly pushing the crimping part T1 upward, and simultaneously causing the material strip S to rise along with the crimping part T1. The material strip S contacts the stationary cutting edge 52, generating a shearing force between the stationary cutting edge 52 and the moving cutting edge, severing the connection between the material strip S and the crimping part T1.

[0037] like Figures 6 to 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the positioning member 7 is located between the static cutting blade 5 and the main body 41. The positioning member 7 has a recessed receiving groove 71 from top to bottom and limiting portions 72 located on both sides of the receiving groove 71. The depth of the receiving groove 71 is greater than the sum of the thickness of the first protrusion 42 and the thickness of the pressing portion T1. The receiving groove 71 always receives the first protrusion 42, and the limiting portions 72 can rise to a position higher than the first protrusion 42, thereby being located on both sides of the pressing portion T1, so that the receiving groove 71 completely receives the pressing portion T1, and sufficiently restricts the left and right movement of the pressing portion T1 during the pressing process. In other embodiments, the positioning member 7 can be configured to be movably embedded in the moving cutting blade 4, and the present invention does not limit this. In this embodiment, the second reset member 6 is two springs that provide an upward elastic force for the positioning member 7. In other embodiments, it can be replaced by components such as cylinders or motors D1 that can achieve the same reset effect, and the present invention does not limit this.

[0038] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the third reset member 8 is a spring, which provides a downward reset force for the moving cutter 4. In other embodiments, it can be replaced by a cylinder, motor D1, or other components that can achieve the same reset effect. This invention does not limit this.

[0039] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the crimping device C also has a second linkage mechanism L2 that is directly connected to the positioning member 7 and a third linkage mechanism L3 that is directly connected to the moving cutter 4.

[0040] like Figures 5 to 9As shown, in this embodiment, the entire second linkage mechanism L2 is approximately H-shaped, including two parallel levers connected to each other. Each lever is pivotally positioned on the frame J behind the moving cutter 4. The front end of each lever is a first connecting part L22, pivotally connected to the left or right side of the positioning member 7, and the rear end of the lever is an overlapping part L21, located above the shoulder L1221 of the actuator L12. When the pressing device C is stationary, the overlapping part L21 overlaps the upper surface of the shoulder L1221, and the upward elastic force provided by the first reset member L13 is greater than the upward elastic force provided by the second reset member 6. Thus, the overlapping part L21 is pushed up by the shoulder L1221 and is in a relatively high position; on the other hand, the first connecting part L22 drives the positioning member 7 to descend and is in a relatively low position, while simultaneously compressing the second reset member 6 downward. During the pressing process, the actuator L12 moves downward, and the shoulder L1221 disengages from the overlapping portion L21 and descends, providing clearance for the overlapping portion L21 to descend. The second reset member 6 is no longer pressed and returns to its original position. The second reset member 6 pushes the positioning member 7 upward through its own elastic restoring force, and drives the first connecting portion L22 upward, while the overlapping portion L21 descends. The entire positioning member 7 rises, causing the limiting portion 72 to extend beyond the top surface of the first protrusion 42 and be higher than the pressing portion T1, restricting the pressing portion T1 from moving in the left and right directions. At this time, the moving cutter 4 has not yet been activated. In other embodiments, the linkage relationship between the first linkage mechanism L1 and the second linkage mechanism L2 can be replaced by other forms such as rack and pinion meshing transmission, cam transmission, etc., and the present invention does not limit this.

[0041] When the weight of the positioning member 7 is balanced with the supporting elastic force of the second reset member 6, the positioning member 7 stops rising; alternatively, a stop block (not shown) can be provided on the rear side of the static cutter 5 to enter the receiving groove 71, so that when the limiting part 72 rises to the left and right sides of the pressing part T1, the bottom wall of the receiving groove 71 just contacts the stop block, thereby limiting the rising stroke of the positioning member 7; other suitable solutions can also be used, and the present invention does not limit them.

[0042] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 11As shown, the third linkage mechanism L3 is located below the second linkage mechanism L2. In this embodiment, the third linkage mechanism L3 is similar to the second linkage mechanism L2, consisting of two parallel levers connected to each other. Each lever is pivotally connected to the frame J behind the moving cutter 4. The front end of each lever is a second connecting part L32, pivotally connected to the left or right side of the main body 41 of the moving cutter 4. The rear end of the lever is a pressure-bearing part L31, located below the pressing part L1222 of the actuator L12. When the pressing device C is stationary, the pressure-bearing part L31 and the pressing part L1222 maintain an upper and lower gap, and due to the action of the third reset member 8, the second connecting part L32 is relatively lower, and the pressure-bearing part L31 is relatively higher. During the crimping process, the actuator L12 moves downward, compressing the first reset member L13. The pressing part L1222 presses down on the pressure-receiving part L31, causing the second connecting part L32 to drive the movable cutter 4 upward. The second protrusion 43 compresses the third reset member 8. After crimping is completed, the third reset member 8 resets the movable cutter 4, and the first reset member L13 resets the actuator L12. In other embodiments, the linkage relationship between the first linkage mechanism L1 and the third linkage mechanism L3 can be replaced by other forms such as rack and pinion meshing transmission or cam transmission. This invention does not limit this.

[0043] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the crimping device C further includes a pad 9, which is detachably mounted on the base of the frame J, located directly below the main body 41 of the movable cutter 4. When the crimping device C is stationary, the main body 41 rests on the upper surface of the pad 9. Technicians can adjust the starting height of the movable cutter 4 by replacing the pads 9 with different thicknesses, thereby adjusting different crimping strokes to accommodate flexible conductive elements F of different thicknesses and crimping portions T1 of different heights.

[0044] like Figure 8 and Figure 10As shown, before crimping, the flexible conductive element F is positioned between the first protrusion 42 and the riveting member 2, with the crimping section F1 of the flexible conductive element F used to crimp and fix the terminal T. The remaining part of the flexible conductive element F is placed on the top surface of the stationary cutter 5 and on the material carrier plate (not shown) located in front of the stationary cutter 5. The crimping part T1 of the terminal T enters between the crimping section F1 and the first protrusion 42. When the moving cutter 4 is in its initial stationary state, the distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary cutter edge 52 in the vertical direction is greater than the distance D1 between the crimping part T1 and the crimping section F1, so that during the process of the moving cutter 4 causing the crimping part T1 and the material strip S to rise simultaneously (refer to...). Figures 12-13 First, the crimping part T1 pierces the flexible conductive element F, and then the material strip S contacts the stationary blade 52 and is severed from the connection with the crimping part T1. Alternatively, the position of the crimping part T1 before it rises is defined as its initial position, and the position where the crimping part T1 just pierces the flexible element during the rising process is defined as the piercing position. The distance D1 between the initial position and the piercing position is less than the initial distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary blade 52.

[0045] Combination Figures 8 to 14 The following describes a first embodiment of the crimping method of the crimping device C of the present invention: First, refer to Figure 8 The material is introduced. The material strip S is allowed to enter the guide groove 51 and be located below the stationary blade 52. The stop is placed on the top surface of the moving cutter 4. The crimping part T1 is located between the first protrusion 42 of the moving cutter 4 and the riveting member 2. The flexible conductive element F is placed on the top surface of the stationary cutter 5, and the crimping section F1 is located above the crimping part T1, that is, between the moving cutter 4 and the riveting member 2.

[0046] In this invention, whether the terminal T and the material strip S are introduced first, or the flexible conductive element F is introduced first, it does not affect the subsequent crimping process. Therefore, this invention does not restrict the order in which the materials are introduced.

[0047] Then, refer to Figure 9Position the crimping part T1. Activate the drive mechanism D, causing the riveting member 2, the limiting member 3, and the actuator L12 to move downwards. Simultaneously, as the actuator L12 descends, it no longer pushes against the overlapping part L21 of the second linkage mechanism L2. The first connecting part L22 of the second linkage mechanism L2 releases its pressure on the positioning member 7 using a lever principle. The second reset mechanism below the positioning member 7 resets upwards, pushing the positioning member 7 upwards. When the positioning member 7 stops rising, the limiting part 72 is located on the left and right sides of the crimping section F1, and the receiving groove 71 has received the crimping section F1, thus achieving the positioning of the crimping part T1. Before completing the positioning of the crimping part T1, the moving cutter 4 remains stationary. (Reference) Figure 9 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, when the positioning of the crimping part T1 is completed, the riveting member 2 has not yet contacted the crimping section F1.

[0048] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, before the crimping section F1 is contacted by the riveting member 2, the distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary blade 52 is greater than the distance D1 between the crimping part T1 and the crimping section F1, so that in the subsequent process, the crimping part T1 first pierces the crimping section F1 and enters the groove 21, and then the terminal T separates from the material strip S.

[0049] Next, refer to Figures 11-14 The moving cutter 4 is activated, causing the crimping part T1 to pierce the crimping section F1 and sever the connection between the material strip S and the crimping part T1. (Reference) Figure 11 The riveting member 2, the limiting member 3, and the actuator L12 continue to move downward simultaneously. The actuator L12 presses down against the pressure part L31 of the third linkage mechanism L3. The second connecting part L32 of the third linkage mechanism L3 rises using the lever principle, driving the moving cutter 4 to rise, and then pushing the terminal T to rise.

[0050] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13As the riveting component 2 continues to descend, its bottom abuts against the upper surface of the crimping section F1. Simultaneously, the moving cutter 4 pushes the crimping part T1 upward. After the crimping section F1 and the crimping part T1 meet, the thorn pierces the crimping section F1. At this point, because the original distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary blade 52 is greater than the distance D1 between the crimping part T1 and the crimping section F1, the material strip S remains connected to the crimping part T1 before contacting the stationary blade 52. Afterward, the material strip S continues to rise with the crimping part T1. Upon contacting the stationary blade 52, the shearing force generated by the cooperation of the stationary cutter 5 and the moving cutter 4 severs the connection between the material strip S and the crimping part T1.

[0051] In this embodiment, the crimped section F1 is not pre-perforated. Therefore, when the thorn pierces the crimped section F1, the riveting member 2 abuts against the crimped section F1, restricting the crimped section F1 from tilting upwards, thus facilitating the thorn's piercing of the crimped section F1. In other embodiments, if the flexible conductive element F is pre-perforated, or if the flexible conductive element F consists of multiple coaxial lines arranged side by side, and the thorn can directly pass through these perforations or the gaps between the axes, the riveting member 2 may not abut against the crimped section F1.

[0052] refer to Figure 14 The thorn that has pierced the crimping section F1 enters the groove 21 at the bottom of the riveting part 2 and bends and deforms upon contact with the groove wall of the groove 21, thereby crimping and fixing the crimping part T1 to the crimping section F1, completing the entire crimping process. Afterwards, all components and mechanisms of the crimping device C are reset, the product is released, and preparations are made for the next crimping. In the crimping method of the present invention, it is feasible to cut the material strip S first and then bend the thorn, or to bend the thorn first and then cut the material strip S, or to perform both almost simultaneously; the crimping method of the present invention does not limit this.

[0053] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the second embodiment of the crimping method of the present invention, when the positioning of the crimping part T1 is completed, that is, before the moving cutter 4 rises, the riveting member 2 can be made to abut against the crimping section F1, so that the distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary blade 52 is greater than the distance D1 between the crimping part T1 and the crimping section F1. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment, the rising stroke of the moving cutter 4 in the second embodiment is shortened.

[0054] In other embodiments, the crimping device C and crimping method of the present invention can also be applied to non-flexible conductive elements that have pre-formed perforations, such as rigid circuit boards with pre-formed perforations.

[0055] The present invention has the following beneficial effects: (1) Before the moving cutter 4 rises, the distance D2 between the material strip S and the stationary blade 52 is greater than the distance D1 between the crimping part T1 and the crimping section F1, so that during the crimping process, the crimping part T1 first pierces the predetermined crimping point of the crimping section F1, and then the terminal T separates from the material strip S, thus avoiding the situation in the prior art where the crimping section F1 is pulled away from the predetermined crimping point before being pierced by the crimping part T1, thereby reducing the scrap rate.

[0056] (2) During the crimping process, the riveting component 2 and the moving cutter 4 move towards each other to complete the crimping. The displacement of the flexible conductive element F is small, which is beneficial to providing crimping accuracy. Moreover, the moving cutter 4 is driven by the same driving mechanism D at the same time as the riveting component 2 using the first linkage mechanism L1 and the third linkage mechanism L3, which makes it easy to control the crimping force and adjust the crimping stroke.

[0057] (3) First, the positioning member 7 is raised to restrict the left and right movement of the crimping part T1, which improves the accuracy of subsequent cutting of the material strip S, the crimping part T1 piercing the flexible conductive element F, and the crimping part T1 entering the groove 21.

[0058] (4) The limiting member 3 is set to limit the guide part T2 to avoid the terminal T from deflection and improve the accuracy of cutting the material strip S.

[0059] (5) Improve the first linkage mechanism L1 to cooperate with the second linkage mechanism L2 and the third linkage mechanism L3 in sequence, so that the positioning component 7 and the moving cutter 4 move in sequence, which is conducive to the phased control of the entire pressing process and facilitates implementation.

[0060] The above detailed description is only an illustration of preferred embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the patent scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent technical changes made using the description and illustrations of the present invention are included within the patent scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A crimping device for crimping and fixing a crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element, wherein the terminal is connected to a strip of material, characterized in that, include: A stationary cutting tool, which has a stationary cutting edge; A movable cutter is located behind the stationary cutter. The upper surface of the movable cutter is used to place the terminal. The material strip extends beyond the movable cutter and is located below the stationary cutter. The movable cutter can move upward relative to the stationary cutter to directly push the crimping part upward, and at the same time drive the material strip to follow the crimping part upward. A riveting member is located above the movable cutter. The conductive element is disposed between the riveting member and the crimping part. The riveting member is capable of downward movement and has a groove at its bottom. A positioning member is located behind the stationary cutter and floats independently relative to the moving cutter. The positioning member has a receiving groove and limiting parts located on both sides of the receiving groove. The limiting parts can rise to both sides of the crimping part to position the crimping part in the receiving groove, thereby restricting the left and right movement of the crimping part. When the moving cutter is in its initial stationary state, the distance between the material strip and the stationary blade in the vertical direction is greater than the distance between the top of the crimping part and the conductive element. This allows the crimping part to pass through the conductive element first during the upward movement of the moving cutter, and the material strip to then contact the stationary blade and be cut off from the terminal. The crimping part then enters the groove to be crimped to the conductive element by the riveting member.

2. The crimping device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a limiting member located above the movable cutter and descending simultaneously with the riveting member. The terminal includes a guide portion connected to the crimping portion. The riveting member is disposed above the crimping portion, and the limiting member is disposed above the guide portion. The bottom of the limiting member has a limiting groove. During the crimping process, the guide portion enters the limiting groove and is limited by the limiting member.

3. The crimping device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a first linkage mechanism, which is directly or indirectly connected to the same drive mechanism as the riveting member; a second linkage mechanism, which is connected to the positioning member, and before the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism cooperate to drive the positioning member to move; and a third linkage mechanism, which is connected to the moving cutter, and after the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism and the third linkage mechanism cooperate to drive the moving cutter to move.

4. The crimping device as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a shoulder for the second linkage mechanism to engage with. The second linkage mechanism is a lever with an engagement portion that engages with the shoulder and a first connecting portion that connects to the positioning member. A second reset member that is pre-compressed in the vertical direction is connected below the positioning member. The shoulder can descend to provide clearance for the descent of the engagement portion. When the second reset member is decompressed, the second reset member pushes the positioning member upward by its own elastic restoring force.

5. The crimping device as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a downwardly extending pressing portion. The third linkage mechanism is a lever with a pressing portion located below the pressing portion and a second connecting portion connected to the moving cutter. When the actuating member descends, the pressing portion presses down against the pressing portion, and the second connecting portion drives the moving cutter to rise together.

6. The crimping device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The movable cutter includes a main body and a first protrusion protruding forward from the main body. The crimping part is placed on the first protrusion. The end of the first protrusion has a movable cutting edge that cooperates with the stationary cutting edge. The receiving groove receives the first protrusion. The positioning member can float upward along the first protrusion so that the limiting part is higher than the crimping part before the movable cutter rises.

7. The crimping device as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The positioning element is located between the static cutting blade and the main body, and the depth of the receiving groove is greater than the sum of the thickness of the first protrusion and the thickness of the pressing part.

8. The crimping device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The stationary cutting tool has a guide groove that extends through the stationary cutting tool in a left-right direction and opens to the rear. The bottom wall of the guide groove is aligned with the top surface of the stationary moving cutting tool to accommodate the material strip. The rear edge of the top wall of the guide groove serves as the stationary cutting edge.

9. A crimping device for crimping and fixing a crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element, wherein the terminal is connected to a strip of material, characterized in that, include: A stationary cutting tool, which has a stationary cutting edge; A movable cutter is located behind the stationary cutter. The upper surface of the movable cutter is used to place the terminal. The material strip extends beyond the movable cutter and is located below the stationary cutter's edge. The movable cutter can move upward relative to the stationary cutter to directly push the crimping part upward, while simultaneously driving the material strip to follow the crimping part upward, so that the crimping part passes upward through the conductive element. Then, the movable cutter continues to push the terminal upward, causing the material strip connected to the terminal to contact the stationary cutter's edge, so that the stationary cutter's edge cooperates with the movable cutter to cut off the connection between the material strip and the terminal. A riveting component is located above the movable cutter. The conductive element is disposed between the riveting component and the crimping part. The riveting component is capable of downward movement. The bottom of the riveting component has a groove for crimping and fixing the crimping part to the conductive element. A positioning member is located behind the stationary cutter and floats independently relative to the moving cutter. The positioning member has a receiving groove and limiting parts located on both sides of the receiving groove. The limiting parts can rise to both sides of the crimping part to position the crimping part in the receiving groove, thereby restricting the left and right movement of the crimping part. A first linkage mechanism, which is directly or indirectly connected to the riveting component through the same drive mechanism and descends simultaneously; A second linkage mechanism is connected to the positioning member, and before the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism cooperates with the second linkage mechanism to drive the positioning member to rise; A third linkage mechanism is connected to the moving cutter. When the limiting part rises to both sides of the pressing part, the first linkage mechanism and the third linkage mechanism cooperate to drive the moving cutter to rise.

10. The crimping device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a shoulder for the second linkage mechanism to engage with. The second linkage mechanism is a lever with an engagement portion that engages with the shoulder and a first connecting portion that connects to the positioning member. A second reset member that is pre-compressed in the vertical direction is connected below the positioning member. The shoulder can descend to provide clearance for the descent of the engagement portion. When the second reset member is decompressed, the second reset member pushes the positioning member upward by its own elastic restoring force.

11. The crimping device as described in claim 10, characterized in that: Both the first reset member and the second reset member are springs, and the elastic force of the first reset member is greater than that of the second reset member.

12. The crimping device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The first linkage mechanism includes a compressible first reset member and an actuating member located above the first reset member. The actuating member is connected to the drive mechanism and has a downwardly extending pressing portion. The third linkage mechanism is a lever with a pressing portion located below the pressing portion and a second connecting portion connected to the moving cutter. When the actuating member descends, the pressing portion presses down against the pressing portion, and the second connecting portion drives the moving cutter to rise together.

13. The crimping device as described in claim 12, characterized in that: The moving cutter includes a main body and a second protrusion protruding forward from the main body. A third resetting member that can extend and retract vertically is connected between the second protrusion and the frame.

14. The crimping device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The movable cutter includes a main body and a first protrusion protruding forward from the main body. The crimping part is placed on the first protrusion. The end of the first protrusion has a movable cutting edge that cooperates with the stationary cutting edge. The receiving groove receives the first protrusion. The positioning member can float upward along the first protrusion so that the limiting part is higher than the crimping part before the movable cutter rises.

15. The crimping device as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The positioning element is located between the static cutting blade and the main body, and the depth of the receiving groove is greater than the sum of the thickness of the first protrusion and the thickness of the pressing part.

16. The crimping device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The stationary cutting tool has a guide groove that extends through the stationary cutting tool in a left-right direction and opens to the rear. The bottom wall of the guide groove is aligned with the top surface of the stationary moving cutting tool to accommodate the material strip. The rear edge of the top wall of the guide groove serves as the stationary cutting edge.

17. A crimping method for crimping and fixing the crimping portion of a terminal to a conductive element, characterized in that, include: A crimping device is provided, the crimping device having a stationary cutter, a movable cutter, a riveting member, and a positioning member, the movable cutter being located behind the stationary cutter, the riveting member being located above the movable cutter, the positioning member being located behind the stationary cutter, the positioning member being able to float independently relative to the movable cutter, and the positioning member having a receiving groove and limiting portions located on both sides of the receiving groove; The conductive element and the terminal are provided, the terminal being connected to a strip; The terminal is placed on top of the moving cutter, the crimping part is located between the moving cutter and the riveting part, and the strip is located below the stationary blade of the stationary cutter; The conductive element is placed between the crimping portion and the riveting member; Start the crimping device, first allowing the limiting part of the positioning member to rise to both sides of the crimping part, so that the crimping part is positioned in the receiving groove, thereby restricting the left and right movement of the crimping part; Then the moving cutter pushes the terminal upward, causing the crimping portion to pass upward through the conductive element; Next, the moving cutter continues to push the terminal upward, causing the material strip connected to the terminal to contact the stationary blade edge of the stationary cutter. The stationary blade edge cooperates with the moving cutter to cut off the connection between the material strip and the terminal, and the riveting member touches the crimping part to crimp and fix the crimping part to the conductive element.

18. The crimping method as described in claim 17, characterized in that: The crimping device further includes a first linkage mechanism, which is directly or indirectly connected to the same drive mechanism as the riveting member; a second linkage mechanism, which is connected to the positioning member; and a third linkage mechanism, which is connected to the moving cutter. When the crimping device is activated, the first linkage mechanism descends. The first linkage mechanism first engages with the second linkage mechanism. Before the limiting part rises to both sides of the crimping part, the second linkage mechanism drives the positioning member to rise. After the limiting part rises to both sides of the crimping part, the first linkage mechanism disengages from the second linkage mechanism and continues to descend to engage with the third linkage mechanism, causing the third linkage mechanism to drive the moving cutter to rise.

19. The crimping method as described in claim 17, characterized in that: As the positioning member rises, the riveting member descends, and the riveting member does not contact the pressing part before the positioning member stops.

20. The crimping method as described in claim 19, characterized in that: As the moving cutter rises, the riveting component descends.

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