Pick-and-place device for t-seals, automatic assembly apparatus and method

Abstract

The application relates to a material taking and press-fitting device for a T-shaped sealing piece, an automatic assembly equipment and a method, which are used for assembling the T-shaped sealing piece into a hole of a workpiece. The material taking and press-fitting device comprises a press rod, a material taking sleeve and a material taking elastic structure. The material taking sleeve is sleeved at the tail end of the press rod and can move axially relative to the press rod. The material taking elastic structure is used for applying an elastic force to the material taking sleeve towards the tail end of the press rod. The tail end of the material taking sleeve is provided with a material taking inner hole. The diameter of the material taking inner hole is smaller than the outer diameter of the T-shaped sealing piece, and the diameter of the material taking inner hole is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the hole. When the material taking sleeve moves relative to the press rod, the tail end of the press rod can extend into the material taking inner hole. The application avoids abnormal deformation of the T-shaped sealing piece in the installation process by controlling the deformed shape of the T-shaped sealing piece in advance, solves the problem that the T-shaped sealing piece cannot be installed in place in the prior art, and ensures assembly quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sealing component assembly technology, specifically to a material handling and pressing device, automatic assembly equipment and method for T-type seals. Background Technology

[0002] LED pixel module lights are a new type of LED light with customization features. Their light-emitting panels are made by mounting a number of pixel light sources on a panel module. See Appendix 2 for the structure of panel module 2. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the installation position and number of pixel light sources can be customized according to requirements. Therefore, where no pixel light sources are installed on the light panel module 2, the holes 21 must be sealed with sealant to ensure the waterproof performance of the LED pixel module light.

[0003] See appendix Figure 1 As shown, the T-type seal 1 is an elastic plug used to seal holes in waterproof applications. Its structure is T-shaped, including a disc portion 11 and a boss 12 located on the lower end face of the disc portion 11. It is generally made of various rubber elastomers, featuring strong sealing performance and low cost, and is currently widely used in various industries. According to the sealing and waterproofing principle of the seal, utilizing the shrinkable, expandable, and deformable characteristics of the T-type seal 1 elastomer, it achieves sealing and waterproofing by interfering with the hole 21 of the lamp panel module 2. Therefore, the outer diameter of the T-type seal 1 (i.e., the outer diameter of the disc portion 11) must be larger than the size of the hole 21, and it needs to be installed correctly to ensure sealing performance.

[0004] Participate in the attached Figure 4 The diagram shown is a simplified schematic of the conventional method for installing the T-type seal 1. A pressure bar with an outer diameter smaller than that of the hole 21 is used to press the T-type seal 1 into the hole 21 of the lamp panel module 2. The outer diameter A of the T-type seal 1 is greater than the diameter B of the hole 21, which is greater than the diameter Y of the pressure bar. (See attached diagram.) Figure 4 As shown in Figure II, the T-type seal 1 deforms during the press-fitting process, and is squeezed out from the gap between the pressure rod and the hole 21. (See attached figure.) Figure 4 As shown in Figure III, when the pressure bar 32 returns to its original position, the T-type seal 1 is prone to springback, which can lead to the T-type seal 1 not being installed properly, further reducing the sealing performance of the lamp panel.

[0005] Therefore, such products are still mainly assembled manually. The installation quality of the T-type seal is ensured by repeated pressing during manual assembly. The quality of manual installation depends on the individual skills of the operator. This kind of work is highly repetitive and tedious, which can easily lead to operator fatigue and further quality problems such as pressure leakage. Moreover, the subsequent process is the glue-filling and sealing process. Therefore, the cost of reworking the lamp panel is too high when quality problems such as pressure leakage occur. Therefore, it is necessary to study automatic installation to ensure the installation quality of T-type seal 1, avoid rework, and improve efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a material handling and pressing device, automatic assembly equipment and method for T-type seals, which can effectively improve the installation quality of T-type seals, avoid rework and improve efficiency.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a material handling and pressing device for T-type seals, used to assemble T-type seals into holes in workpieces. The device includes a pressure rod, a material handling sleeve, and a material handling elastic structure. The material handling sleeve is fitted onto the tail end of the pressure rod and can move relative to it along the axial direction of the pressure rod. The material handling elastic structure applies an elastic force toward the tail end of the pressure rod to the material handling sleeve. The tail end of the material handling sleeve has a material handling inner hole with a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the T-type seal and less than or equal to the diameter of the hole. When the material handling sleeve moves relative to the pressure rod, the tail end of the pressure rod can extend into the material handling inner hole.

[0008] Furthermore, the outer wall of the pressure bar is provided with a connecting through hole, and the two sides of the material taking sleeve are provided with axially extending strip-shaped through holes. The material taking pressing device also includes a connecting limiting pin that passes through the connecting through hole and the two side strip-shaped through holes.

[0009] Furthermore, the material-receiving sleeve includes a main body section and a pressing working section located at the tail end of the main body section. The outer diameter of the pressing working section is smaller than the outer diameter of the main body section and smaller than the diameter of the hole. The material-receiving pressing device also includes a buffer spring fitted on the main body section, and the tail end of the buffer spring extends into the pressing working section.

[0010] The present invention also provides an automatic assembly device for T-type seals, including a drive device and the aforementioned material handling and pressing device. The drive device is connected to the material handling and pressing device and is capable of driving the material handling and pressing device to move in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0011] Furthermore, it also includes a loading device, which includes a loading positioning block, a lifting positioning block, and a lifting assembly. The loading positioning block is provided with a loading positioning groove and a lifting through hole. The loading positioning groove is used for positioning and installing the T-type seal. The lifting through hole is located at the bottom of the loading positioning groove. The lifting positioning block is located below the lifting through hole. The lifting assembly can drive the lifting positioning block to move upward to pass through the lifting through hole or to descend and reset.

[0012] Furthermore, the side wall of the loading positioning groove is provided with an arc-shaped positioning surface, and the loading positioning groove has an opening on the side opposite to the arc-shaped positioning surface. The opening is used for the T-shaped seal to enter. The diameter of the semi-circular positioning surface is the same as the radius of the disc part of the T-shaped seal, and is used to fit and position itself against the outer peripheral wall of the disc part.

[0013] Furthermore, the loading device also includes a detection sensor for detecting whether the T-shaped seal is properly positioned in the loading positioning groove.

[0014] Furthermore, the lifting positioning block of the loading device is provided with a lifting support surface, which is used to abut the side of the boss of the T-shaped seal or abut the lower end face of the disc.

[0015] Furthermore, it also includes a feeding device, which includes a conveyor channel. The outlet of the conveyor channel is connected to the loading positioning block in the loading device, and is able to deliver the T-shaped seal into the loading positioning groove.

[0016] The present invention also provides an automatic assembly method for T-type seals, which uses the above-mentioned automatic assembly equipment and includes the following steps:

[0017] Material handling process: The drive unit drives the material handling and pressing device to move directly above the T-type seal to be installed, and then drives the material handling pressure bar to move down to the end of the material handling sleeve to contact the upper end face of the disc part of the T-type seal; the T-type seal is inserted into the material handling inner hole by pressing.

[0018] Pressing process: The drive unit drives the material taking and pressing device to move directly above the hole of the workpiece, and then drives the pressure bar to descend vertically. The material taking sleeve contacts the periphery of the hole, the material taking inner hole extends into the hole or aligns with the hole opening, the pressure bar presses the T-shaped seal into the hole, and then lifts the pressure bar.

[0019] As described above, the material handling and pressing device, automatic assembly equipment and method of the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0020] The material handling and pressing device, through the use of a pressure bar, a material handling sleeve, and a material handling elastic structure, first deforms the T-shaped seal and inserts it into the material handling sleeve. Then, it presses the deformed T-shaped seal 1 into the hole of the workpiece. By controlling the deformation shape of the T-shaped seal in advance, abnormal deformation during the installation process is avoided, solving the problem of incomplete installation of T-shaped seals in existing technologies and ensuring assembly quality. The automatic assembly equipment uses a drive device and a material handling and pressing device for material handling and pressing. Utilizing the drive device and loading device, it can achieve full automation of T-shaped seal installation, featuring high installation efficiency, low operator labor intensity, and high assembly quality, avoiding rework and improving efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 -I and Figure 1 -II is a structural schematic diagram of the T-type seal.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the lamp panel module.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the holes in the lamp panel module.

[0024] Figure 4 -I to Figure 4 -III is a schematic diagram of the existing T-type seal assembly process.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the material handling and pressing device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the material-receiving sleeve in this invention.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the material-receiving sleeve in this invention.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the pressure bar in this invention.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting limiting pin in this invention.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic assembly equipment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the loading device in this invention.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the loading device in this invention.

[0033] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the loading and positioning block in this invention.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the lifting and positioning block in this invention.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the drive device in the present invention.

[0036] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding device in this invention.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the workpiece positioning device in this invention.

[0038] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the process for assembling T-type seals using the automatic assembly equipment of the present invention.

[0039] Component designation explanation

[0040] 1 T-type seal

[0041] 11. Disc section

[0042] 12 convex surfaces

[0043] 2. Light panel module

[0044] 21 holes

[0045] 3 Material handling and pressing device

[0046] 31 Material Retrieval Sleeve

[0047] 311 Material Picking Inner Hole

[0048] 312 Main Section

[0049] 313 Pressing Section

[0050] 314 strip-shaped through hole

[0051] 315 Card slot

[0052] 316 upper section inner hole

[0053] 317 Middle Section Inner Hole

[0054] 318 Stepped surface

[0055] 319 Limiting step surface

[0056] 32 pressure bar

[0057] 321 Connecting through hole

[0058] 322 Sleeve Connecting Section

[0059] 323 Shoulder Surface

[0060] 324 threaded hole

[0061] 325 Crimping plane

[0062] 33 Picking spring

[0063] 34 Connecting limit pins

[0064] 341 Card Slot

[0065] 35mm ring

[0066] 36. Buffer springs

[0067] 37 Fixture

[0068] 38 guide sleeve

[0069] 4. Loading device

[0070] 41 Loading positioning block

[0071] 411 Loading and positioning slot

[0072] 412 Lifting Through Hole

[0073] 413 Arc-shaped positioning surface

[0074] 414 Opening

[0075] 415 Detection Gap

[0076] 42 Lifting and positioning blocks

[0077] 421 Lifting Support Surface

[0078] 422 connecting bolts

[0079] 43 Lifting Cylinder

[0080] 44 Detection Sensors

[0081] 45 Support base

[0082] 5. Feeding device

[0083] 51 Linear Feed Plate

[0084] 52 Linear Vibrator

[0085] 53 Transparent Acrylic Sheet

[0086] 54 Sensor bracket

[0087] 55 through-beam sensors

[0088] 56 Circular Vibratory Disk

[0089] 6. Drive unit

[0090] 61 Horizontal drive mechanism

[0091] 611 Support Frame

[0092] 612 Horizontal Motion Module

[0093] 613 Horizontal Drive Motor

[0094] 62 movable seats

[0095] 621 base

[0096] 622 casing

[0097] 63 Vertical drive mechanism

[0098] 631 Vertical Drive Cylinder

[0099] 632 Floating Joint

[0100] 64 Button Box

[0101] 65 Touchscreen

[0102] 66 Connecting hinges

[0103] 67. Alarm Light

[0104] 7 racks

[0105] 8. Workpiece positioning device

[0106] 81 Workpiece Moving Motor

[0107] 82 Workpiece Motion Module

[0108] 83. Mobile connection board

[0109] 84 Workpiece positioning fixture

[0110] 9. Vibratory feeder support Detailed Implementation

[0111] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification.

[0112] It should be understood that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., depicted in the accompanying drawings of this specification are merely for illustrative purposes to aid those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed herein, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which the invention can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in proportions, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and objectives achieved by the invention, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed herein. Furthermore, the terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and "middle" used in this specification are merely for clarity and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered within the scope of the invention's implementation.

[0113] See Figures 5 to 9 This invention provides a material taking and pressing device 3 for a T-type seal 1, used to assemble the T-type seal 1 into the hole 21 of the workpiece. The material taking and pressing device includes a pressure rod 32, a material taking sleeve 31, and a material taking elastic structure. The material taking sleeve 31 is fitted onto the tail end of the pressure rod 32 and can move relative to the pressure rod 32 along the axial direction. The material taking elastic structure is used to apply an elastic force toward the tail end of the pressure rod 32 to the material taking sleeve 31. The tail end of the material taking sleeve 31 is provided with a material taking inner hole 311. The diameter of the material taking inner hole 311 is smaller than the outer diameter of the T-type seal 1, and the diameter of the material taking inner hole 311 is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the hole 21. When the material taking sleeve 31 moves relative to the pressure rod 32, the tail end of the pressure rod 32 can extend into the material taking inner hole 311.

[0114] When using the material handling and pressing device 3 of the present invention, see [reference needed]. Figure 5 The tail end of the pressure bar 32 generally faces downwards. The elastic force of the material-taking elastic structure keeps the material-taking sleeve 31 at its lower limit position on the pressure bar 32. First, the material-taking pressing device 3 is moved to be directly above the T-shaped seal 1 to be installed. Then, the material-taking pressing device 3 moves downwards, and the material-taking sleeve 31 contacts and aligns with the T-shaped seal 1. The T-shaped seal 1 can be inserted into the material-taking inner hole 311 by compression. At this time, the T-shaped seal 1 has been compressed and deformed. Then, the material-taking pressing device 3 is moved to be directly above the hole 21 of the workpiece, and the material-taking sleeve 31 abuts against the workpiece. The material taking sleeve 31 will no longer descend. The tail end (i.e., the lower end) of the material taking sleeve 31 can be inserted into the hole 21 or it can be placed against the periphery of the hole 21, depending on the outer diameter of the lower end of the material taking sleeve 31. When the lower end of the material taking sleeve 31 is placed against the periphery of the hole 21, the material taking inner hole 311 and the hole 21 must be kept coaxially aligned. The pressure bar 32 moves down relative to the material taking sleeve 31. The T-shaped seal 1 is pressed down into the hole 21 through the tail end of the pressure bar 32. The T-shaped seal 1, which has been pre-compressed and deformed, directly enters the hole 21. Then the material taking and pressing device 3 is raised, and the assembly is completed.

[0115] The material handling and pressing device 3 of the present invention can conveniently and quickly complete the assembly of the T-shaped seal 1 in the hole 21. First, the T-shaped seal 1 is deformed and installed into the material handling sleeve 31, and then the deformed T-shaped seal 1 in the material handling sleeve 31 is pressed into the hole 21 of the workpiece. By controlling the deformation shape of the T-shaped seal 1 in advance, abnormal deformation of the T-shaped seal 1 during the installation process can be avoided, solving the problem of improper installation of the T-shaped seal 1 during assembly in the prior art and ensuring the assembly quality.

[0116] See Figures 5 to 9 The following is a further description of the material handling and pressing device 3 of the present invention using a specific embodiment:

[0117] In this embodiment, see Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As a preferred design, the material-receiving sleeve 31 is mounted on the pressure bar 32 in the following manner: a connecting through hole 321 is provided on the outer wall of the pressure bar 32, and axially extending strip-shaped through holes 314 are provided on both sides of the material-receiving sleeve 31. The material-receiving pressing device 3 also includes connecting limiting pins 34. The connecting limiting pins 34 pass through the connecting through hole 321 and the two side strip-shaped through holes 314. A groove 341 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting limiting pin 34 near both ends. The connecting limiting pins 34 are engaged with the side walls of the strip-shaped through holes 314 through the grooves 341, and the connecting limiting pins 34 will not wobble axially. In this way, the material-receiving sleeve 31 can move smoothly up and down relative to the pressure bar 32 without falling off the pressure bar 32. The upper and lower side walls of the strip-shaped through holes 314 of the material-receiving sleeve 31 cooperate with the connecting limiting pins 34 to limit the position range of the material-receiving sleeve 31 on the pressure bar 32.

[0118] In this embodiment, see Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As a preferred design, the material-retrieving elastic structure includes a material-retrieving spring 33 fitted outside the material-retrieving sleeve 31. The upper end of the material-retrieving spring 33 abuts against the connecting limiting pin 34 and engages in the locking groove 315 on the connecting limiting pin 34 to prevent the material-retrieving spring 33 from tilting. The lower end of the material-retrieving spring 33 abuts against the retaining ring 35, which is installed in the locking groove 315 on the outer peripheral wall of the material-retrieving sleeve 31 and is axially fixed to the material-retrieving sleeve 31. When no external force is applied, the material-retrieving spring 33, through the connecting limiting pin 34 and the retaining ring 35, generates an axially downward elastic force on the material-retrieving sleeve 31, keeping the material-retrieving sleeve 31 in the lower position.

[0119] In this embodiment, see Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9As a preferred design, the outer circumference of the material-receiving sleeve 31 is in a two-step stepped shape, including a main body section 312 and a pressing working section 313 located at the tail end of the main body section 312. The outer diameter of the pressing working section 313 is smaller than the outer diameter of the main body section 312. The material-receiving pressing device 3 also includes a buffer spring 36 fitted on the main body section 312. The inner hole of the buffer spring 36 is installed with an interference fit to the outer circumference of the main body section 312. Its upper end is limited by a retaining ring 35, and its lower end extends to the pressing working section 313. The small outer diameter of the pressing working section 313 allows it to be easily inserted into the hole 21 during assembly. At this time, the buffer spring 36 is compressed in contact with the periphery of the hole 21, applying a downward pressing force to the workpiece, which can play a certain buffering role. After pressing, it can prevent the workpiece from being lifted by the material-receiving pressing device 3. At the upper end of the pressing section 313, a limiting step surface 319 is formed between it and the main body section 312. During the insertion into the hole 21, the limiting step surface 319 abuts against the periphery of the hole 21 to prevent the lower end of the material taking sleeve 31 from going too deep into the hole 21, ensuring that there is a certain space between the lower end of the material taking sleeve 31 and the bottom of the hole 21 during the installation of the workpiece, which serves as the installation space for the T-type seal 1.

[0120] In this embodiment, see Figure 7 and Figure 8 As a preferred design, the pressure bar 32 is a two-section stepped shaft. The section near the tail end (lower section) has a smaller radius than the section near the head end (upper section). The section near the tail end forms a sleeve connecting section 322 for installing the material-receiving sleeve 31. A shoulder surface 323 is formed between the sleeve connecting section 322 and the section near the head end. In this embodiment, preferably, the tail end face of the pressure bar 32 has a pressing plane 325, which is perpendicular to the axial direction of the pressure bar 32. When the T-shaped seal 1 is inserted into the material-receiving inner hole 311, the upper end face of the disc portion 11 of the T-shaped seal 1 abuts against the pressing plane 325. When the pressure bar 32 presses the T-shaped seal 1 out of the material-receiving inner hole 311, the pressing plane 325 also abuts against the upper end face of the disc portion 11, ensuring the stability of the T-shaped seal 1 during insertion and removal.

[0121] In this embodiment, see Figure 7 and Figure 8As a preferred design, the inner hole of the material-receiving sleeve 31 is divided into three sections of different sizes: an upper inner hole 316, a middle inner hole 317, and a material-receiving inner hole 311, from top to bottom. The middle inner hole 317 has a precise clearance fit with the sleeve connecting section 322 of the pressure bar 32, allowing the material-receiving sleeve 31 to slide linearly on the pressure bar 32. The radius of the upper inner hole 316 is larger than that of the middle inner hole 317 and also larger than the outer diameter of the upper part of the pressure bar 32. An upper stepped surface 318 is formed between the upper inner hole 316 and the middle inner hole 317. When the material-receiving sleeve 31 moves upward, the upper stepped surface 318 abuts against the shoulder surface 323 on the pressure bar 32, thus limiting the upward movement of the material-receiving sleeve 31. The radius of the material-receiving inner hole 311 is larger than that of the middle inner hole 317, allowing the sleeve connecting section 322 at the bottom of the pressure bar 32 to smoothly enter the material-receiving inner hole 311.

[0122] In this embodiment, see Figure 5 As a preferred design, the material handling and pressing device 3 further includes a fixed base 37 and a guide sleeve 38 fixedly installed in the fixed base 37. The pressing rod 32 is installed in the guide sleeve 38 and can move up and down axially relative to the guide sleeve 38. The lower end of the guide sleeve 38 is used for mechanical limiting of the vertical upward movement of the material handling sleeve 313. The first end of the pressing rod 32 is provided with a threaded hole 324. The fixed base 37 is used to connect with the horizontal drive mechanism 61, which drives the material handling and pressing device 3 to move in the horizontal direction but not in the vertical direction. The threaded hole 324 at the first end of the pressing rod 32 is used to connect with the vertical drive mechanism 63, which drives the pressing rod to move vertically up and down.

[0123] See Figure 10 The present invention also provides an automatic assembly device for a T-shaped seal 1, used to install the T-shaped seal 1 into the hole 21 of a workpiece. In this embodiment, the workpiece is a lamp panel module 2, but it can also be other workpieces. The automatic assembly device includes the aforementioned material handling and pressing device 3, as well as a drive device 6, a loading device 4, a feeding device 5, a workpiece positioning device 8, a frame 7, and a control system. The drive device 6 drives the material handling and pressing device 3 to move horizontally and vertically. The feeding device 5 provides the T-shaped seal 1 and conveys it to the loading device 4. The loading device 4 inserts the T-shaped seal 1 into the material handling sleeve 31 of the material handling and pressing device 3. The workpiece positioning device 8 is used to install the lamp panel module 2. The frame 7 serves as the mounting support base for the drive device 6, the loading device 4, the feeding device 5, the workpiece positioning device 8, and other components. The control system is connected to the drive device 6, the feeding device 5, the workpiece positioning device 8, and other components.

[0124] The following provides further explanation of the loading device 4, feeding device 5, drive device 6, workpiece positioning device 8, frame 7, and control system of the automatic assembly equipment.

[0125] Loading device 4:

[0126] See Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the loading device 4 includes a loading positioning block 41, a lifting positioning block 42, and a lifting assembly. The loading positioning block 41 is provided with a loading positioning groove 411 and a lifting through hole 412. The loading positioning groove 411 is used for positioning and installing the T-shaped seal 1. The loading positioning groove 411 can be positioned by supporting the lower end face of the disc portion 11 and / or the side of the boss 12. The lifting through hole 412 is located at the bottom of the loading positioning groove 411, and the lifting positioning block 42 is located below the lifting through hole 412. The lifting assembly can drive the lifting positioning block 42 to move upward to pass through the lifting through hole 412 or to descend and reset. The loading positioning block 41 is mounted on a support base 45. In this embodiment, the lifting assembly includes a vertically arranged lifting cylinder 433, which is mounted in the support base 45. The lifting positioning block 42 is connected to the piston rod of the lifting cylinder 433 by a connecting bolt 422. The lifting cylinder 433 extends upward to lift the T-shaped seal 1 in the loading positioning block 41.

[0127] See Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 The filling positioning groove 411 is a two-stage stepped groove, the shape of which is adapted to the T-type seal 1. As a preferred design, the side wall of the filling positioning groove 411 is provided with an arc-shaped positioning surface 413. Specifically, the arc-shaped positioning surface 413 is located on the side wall of the upper cavity used to accommodate the disc portion 11. The filling positioning groove 411 has an opening 414 on the side opposite to the arc-shaped positioning surface 413, for the T-type seal 1 to enter. The diameter of the semi-arc-shaped positioning surface 413 is the same as the outer diameter of the disc portion 11 of the T-type seal 1, for fitting and positioning against the outer peripheral wall of the disc portion 11. For use, see [reference needed]. Figure 11 and Figure 16 The opening 414 on the loading positioning block 41 is connected to the outlet of the feeding device 5. The feeding device 5 feeds the T-shaped seal 1 into the loading positioning groove 411 through the opening 414. Then it stops when the outer circumferential surface of the disc part 11 contacts the arc positioning surface 413. The T-shaped seal 1 is positioned in the loading positioning groove 411.

[0128] See Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the loading device 4 further includes a detection sensor 44 for detecting whether the T-shaped seal 1 is properly installed and positioned in the loading positioning groove 411. The loading positioning block 41 has a detection notch 415 at the arc positioning surface 413. The detection sensor 44 can be a contact sensor, which is installed in the detection notch 415. When the outer circumferential surface of the disc part 11 contacts the arc positioning surface 413, the detection sensor 44 will be triggered and the signal will be transmitted to the control system to avoid malfunction.

[0129] See Figure 14 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the lifting positioning block 42 is provided with a lifting support surface 421. The lifting support surface 421 is an inclined surface. When the lifting positioning block 42 lifts the T-shaped seal 1 upward, the lifting support surface 421 abuts against the side of the boss 12 of the T-shaped seal 1, thereby stably supporting the T-shaped seal 1 and ensuring that the T-shaped seal 1 does not tilt when lifted, so that it can stably enter the material taking sleeve 31 of the material taking and pressing device 3. Of course, in other embodiments, if the lower end face of the disc portion 11 of the T-shaped seal 1 is large enough, the lifting support surface 421 can be supported on the lower end face of the disc portion 11. In this case, the lifting support surface 421 is a plane and can abut against the lower end face of the disc portion 11.

[0130] Feeding device 5:

[0131] See Figure 10 and 16 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the feeding device 5 includes a linear feeding plate 51, a linear vibrator 52, and a circular vibrating plate 56. The linear feeding plate 51 is mounted on the linear vibrator 52 and has a guide groove. The outlet of the circular vibrating plate 56 is connected to the inlet of the guide groove, and the outlet of the guide groove is connected to the opening 414 of the loading positioning block 41 of the loading device 4.

[0132] The circular vibratory feeder 56 is a standard automatic feeder on the market, installed on the vibratory feeder bracket 9. It is used to automatically arrange the T-shaped seals 1 with the boss 12 facing downwards, and automatically feed the T-shaped seals 1 into the guide grooves on the linear feed plate 51. The linear vibrator 52 is a standard automatic feeder on the market, installed on the table of the frame 7. It automatically feeds the T-shaped seals 1 in the guide grooves on the linear feed plate 51 in an orderly and stable manner towards the loading positioning block 41 through vibration.

[0133] See Figure 16In this embodiment, the circular vibratory feeder 56 is a three-track circular vibratory feeder 56. The linear feed plate 51 is provided with three guide grooves, which form the conveying channel for conveying the T-shaped seal 1 and are respectively connected to the three tracks of the circular vibratory feeder 56. Correspondingly, three sets of loading devices 4 are set up, which are respectively connected to the three guide grooves of the linear feed plate 51 and work together. Among them, the three sets of loading devices 4 are arranged side by side, and the loading positioning blocks 41 of the three can be made into one piece, and the support base 45 can also be made into one piece.

[0134] See Figure 16 In this embodiment, preferably, a transparent acrylic plate 53 is also provided at the upper end of the linear feeding plate 51 to cover the guide groove, which can prevent the T-shaped seal 1 from coming off the linear conveying channel due to vibration, and does not affect the observation of the conveying situation.

[0135] In this embodiment, see Figure 16 Preferably, the feeding device 5 further includes three through-beam sensors 55 disposed above the linear feeding plate 51. The three through-beam sensors 55 are respectively installed at the entrance of the three guide slots through sensor brackets 54. The lower end of the through-beam sensor 55 passes through the hole 21 on the linear feeding plate 51, and the upper end passes through the transparent acrylic plate 53 to realize through-beam sensing. It is used to sense whether the T-shaped seal 1 in the three guide slots of the linear feeding plate 51 is full. When all three guide slots are full, the circular vibrating plate 56 can be driven to stop working by the control system.

[0136] In this embodiment, see Figure 10 The vibratory plate bracket 9 is independent of the main body of the equipment and is used to install and fix the circular vibratory plate 56. The overall height of the circular vibratory plate 56 can be adjusted.

[0137] Drive unit 6:

[0138] See Figure 10 and 15 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the driving device 6 includes a horizontal driving mechanism 61 and a vertical driving mechanism 63, which are used to drive the horizontal and vertical movements of the material handling and pressing device 3, respectively.

[0139] See Figure 15The material handling and pressing device 3 is mounted on a movable base 62 via a fixed base 37. The horizontal drive mechanism 61 includes a horizontal motion module 612, a support frame 611, and a horizontal drive motor 613. The horizontal motion module 612 is fixedly mounted on the frame 7 via the support frames 611 at both ends. The horizontal motion module 612 is a modular mechanism, including a horizontal track, a slider mounted on the horizontal track, and a transmission assembly. The movable base 62 is fixed on the slider. The transmission assembly connects the slider and the horizontal drive motor 613, which provides power to move the slider via the transmission assembly, thereby moving the material handling and pressing device 3 horizontally. In this embodiment, the driving direction of the horizontal motion module 612 is taken as the X-axis direction. The transmission assembly can be a lead screw drive assembly or other suitable existing structures. The horizontal drive motor 613 is connected to the control system, which controls its automatic start and stop operation. A stepper motor can be used for the horizontal drive motor 613 when the speed requirement is not high; otherwise, a servo motor can be used.

[0140] When the vertical drive mechanism 63 is mounted on the movable seat 62, it moves horizontally with the movable seat 62. The vertical drive mechanism 63 includes a vertically arranged vertical drive cylinder 631. A floating joint 632 is installed on the piston rod of the vertical drive cylinder 631. The floating joint 632 is connected to the threaded hole 324 on the pressure bar 32 of the material handling and pressing device 3 by bolts. Through the extension and retraction of the piston rod, the pressure bar 32 is driven to move vertically up and down relative to the movable seat 62.

[0141] In other embodiments, the horizontal drive motor 613 and the vertical drive mechanism 63 can also be other suitable drive mechanisms that can achieve the above-mentioned drive functions. The drive device 6 may also not be divided into a horizontal drive mechanism 61 and a vertical drive mechanism 63. For example, an intelligent robotic arm can be used, which can simultaneously perform horizontal and vertical movement drive.

[0142] See Figure 15 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the drive unit 6 further includes a button box 64, a touch screen 65, and an alarm light 67. The button box 64 is equipped with an emergency stop button and a main power switch for controlling the operation of the horizontal drive mechanism 61 and the vertical drive mechanism 63. The alarm light is a tri-color alarm light with a buzzer, used to indicate abnormal equipment conditions. The touch screen 65 is mounted to the side of the support frame 611 via a connecting hinge 66. The touch screen 65 is connected to the control system and is used for controlling and adjusting the drive unit 6 and other devices, including parameter adjustment, product switching, and manual / automatic switching functions.

[0143] See Figure 10 and 15In this embodiment, the movable seat 62 includes a seat body 621 and a dust cover 622. The material handling and pressing device 3 is installed in the seat body 621. The dust cover 622 is connected to the seat body 621 and covers part of the structure of the material handling and pressing device 3, thus playing a role in dust prevention and protection.

[0144] In this embodiment, see Figure 10 and Figure 15 The automatic assembly equipment is equipped with three material handling and pressing devices 3, all mounted on a movable base 62. Each device is independently driven vertically by three vertical drive cylinders 631. The three material handling and pressing devices 3 can simultaneously move above the three loading devices 4, respectively inserting the T-shaped seals 1 from the loading devices 4, and then into the three holes 21 of the lamp panel module.

[0145] Workpiece positioning device 8:

[0146] See Figure 10 and 17 As a preferred design, in this embodiment, the workpiece positioning device 8 is located on the frame 7 and includes a workpiece motion module 82, a workpiece moving motor 81, a moving connecting plate 83, and a workpiece positioning fixture 84. The workpiece motion module 82 is mounted on the table surface of the frame 7, the moving connecting plate 83 is mounted on the workpiece motion module 82, and the workpiece positioning fixture 84 is mounted on the workpiece motion module 82. In this embodiment, the workpiece is a lamp panel module 2, and the lamp panel module 2 is mounted in the workpiece positioning fixture. The workpiece moving motor 81 provides power, driving the moving connecting plate 83 to move horizontally in a straight line through the workpiece motion module 82, thereby moving the workpiece positioning fixture 84 and the lamp panel module 2. In this embodiment, the lamp panel module 2 is moved to the installation position with the straight-line movement direction of the lamp panel module 2 as the Y-axis direction. In this embodiment, two lamp panel modules 2 are mounted on one workpiece positioning fixture 84.

[0147] In this embodiment, the workpiece motion module 82 is a modular structure, including a track extending along the Y-axis. A slider and a transmission assembly are mounted on the track. A movable connecting plate 83 is fixed to the slider. The transmission assembly connects the slider and the workpiece moving motor 81, which provides power to drive the slider to move via the transmission assembly, thereby moving the lamp panel module 2 in the Y-axis direction. The transmission assembly can be a lead screw drive assembly or other suitable existing structures. The horizontal drive motor 613 is connected to the control system and can be automatically started and stopped by the control system controller. The horizontal drive motor 613 can be a stepper motor if the speed requirement is not high; otherwise, a servo motor can be used.

[0148] In this embodiment, two sets of workpiece positioning devices 8 are installed on the frame 7, forming a dual-station operation. The alternating operation of the two stations effectively improves the production efficiency of the equipment.

[0149] Rack 7:

[0150] In this embodiment, the frame 7 is the main mounting support base of the automatic assembly equipment. The interior is used to install the electrical wiring board. The panel of the frame 7 is used to install the drive device 6, the loading device 4, the feeding device 5, and the workpiece positioning device 8, etc. A start button is installed on the panel of the frame 7 for manually placing the lamp panel module 2 and starting the equipment.

[0151] The control system in the automatic assembly method of the present invention can adopt components such as a PLC controller, which is equipped with a corresponding control program that can control the feeding device 5, the loading device 4, the driving device 6 and the workpiece positioning device 8 to perform corresponding actions, install a certain action sequence, cooperate with each other to complete the entire assembly work, and realize the full automation of the configuration work.

[0152] The present invention also provides an automatic assembly method for a T-type seal 1, which is performed using an automatic assembly device, see below. Figure 18 The processes shown in Figures I through IX include the following steps:

[0153] Material feeding process: The feeding device 5 is controlled by the control system. The circular vibrating plate 56 automatically feeds the T-shaped seal 1 into the guide groove on the linear feeding plate 51, and then the linear feeding plate 51 transports it in an orderly and stable manner to the loading positioning groove 411 of the loading positioning block 41 of the loading device 4.

[0154] Workpiece positioning process: The workpiece positioning device 8 is controlled by the control system. After the lamp panel module 2 is installed on the workpiece positioning fixture 84, the workpiece moving motor 81 is controlled to move, and the lamp panel module 2 is driven to the installation position by the workpiece motion module 82. In this embodiment, the lamp panel module 2 has multiple rows of holes 21, three in each row.

[0155] Material handling process: This process is completed by controlling the drive unit 6 and the material handling and pressing device 3 through the control system. This process includes the following steps:

[0156] Step 1: Initially, the horizontal drive mechanism 61 drives the material handling and pressing device 3 to move directly above the T-shaped seal 1 to be installed, that is, directly above the T-shaped seal 1 in the loading device 4. See [link / reference]. Figure 18-I .

[0157] Step 2: The vertical drive mechanism 63 drives the pressure bar 32 in the material handling and pressing device 3 to move downwards until the lower end of the material handling sleeve 31 abuts against the upper surface of the T-shaped seal 1. The vertical drive mechanism 63 then stops operating. (See below) Figure 18 II.

[0158] Step 3: The T-shaped seal 1 is inserted into the material-receiving inner hole 311 by the extrusion of the loading device 4. Specifically, the lifting cylinder 433 of the loading device 4 is controlled to lift the lifting positioning block 42 upward, so that the lifting support surface 421 supports the T-shaped seal 1 in the loading positioning groove 411 and lifts the T-shaped seal 1. At this time, the material-receiving sleeve 31 will move upward. During the displacement, the material-receiving spring 33 is compressed, and the upper end face of the disc portion 11 of the T-shaped seal 1 contacts the pressing surface 325 of the lower end of the pressure rod 32. See Figure 18 III.

[0159] Step 4: The control system controls the vertical drive cylinder 631 to move, causing the pressure bar 32 to move upward. The lifting cylinder 433 continues to extend, with the upward movement speed of the pressure bar 32 slightly less than that of the lifting cylinder 433. This clamps the T-shaped seal 1 between the pressure bar 32 and the lifting positioning block 42. Alternatively, after the lifting cylinder 433 moves upward and clamps the T-shaped seal 1 between the pressure bar 32 and the lifting positioning block 42, the lifting cylinder 433 and the pressure bar 32 move upward at the same speed. The upper end face of the picking sleeve 31 contacts the lower end face of the guide sleeve 38, reaching the mechanical limit. The picking sleeve 31 stops rising, while the pressure bar 32 and the lifting positioning block 42 continue to rise. Under the action of the lifting positioning block 42 and the pressure bar 32, the lifting positioning block 42, carrying the T-shaped seal 1, is inserted into the picking inner hole 311 of the picking sleeve 31. (See [link]). Figure 18 IV. The T-type seal 1 is in a deformed state in the material intake hole 311.

[0160] Step 5: After the control system controls the vertical drive cylinder 631 to move the pressure bar 32 upward to the designated position, it controls the lifting cylinder 433 to reset and retract, causing the lifting positioning block 42 to exit the material-receiving inner hole 311. The T-shaped seal 1 remains in the material-receiving inner hole 311. (See...) Figure 18 V. At this time, the upper end face of the disc portion 11 of the T-type seal 1 is in contact with the pressing plane 325 of the pressure bar 32.

[0161] Pressing process: The control system controls the operation of the drive device 6 and the workpiece positioning device 8, and the pressing process is completed by the material handling and pressing device 3, including the following steps:

[0162] Step 1: First, the horizontal drive mechanism 61 drives the material handling and pressing device 3 to move above the installation position. At this time, the material handling and pressing device 3 is located directly above the hole 21 of the lamp panel module 2. (See...) Figure 18 VI. In this embodiment, the material-taking sleeves 31 of the three material-taking and pressing devices 3 are respectively aligned with three holes 21 in a row.

[0163] Step 2: The vertical drive cylinder 631 descends, causing the pressure bar 32 to drop. The pressing section 313 at the lower end of the material-retrieving sleeve 31 extends into the hole 21, and the limiting step surface 319 abuts against the periphery of the hole 21. The material-retrieving sleeve 31 then stops moving downwards. See [link / reference] Figure 18 VII; Then the pressure bar 32 continues to move downwards, pressing the T-shaped seal 1 into the hole 21, see... Figure 18 VIII.

[0164] Step 3: The vertical drive cylinder 631 moves upward, lifting the pressure bar 32. The pressure bar 32 leaves the hole 21, and the material removal sleeve 31 leaves the lamp panel module 2. The pressing operation is complete. See below. Figure 18 IX.

[0165] After completing one pressing operation, the control system will control the workpiece positioning device 8 to move the lamp panel module 2 along the Y-axis to the next set of holes 21 where T-type seals 1 need to be installed, and control the drive device 6 and the loading device 4 to repeat the material picking and pressing operations, thereby continuously pressing the T-type seals 1, and sequentially installing the T-type seals 1 in the multiple rows of holes 21 on the lamp panel where T-type seals 1 need to be installed.

[0166] In this embodiment, when using the automatic assembly equipment, three material handling and pressing devices 3 are used to perform pressing work simultaneously. In particular, when a certain hole 21 in a row of three holes 21 in the lamp panel mold does not need to be installed with a T-shaped seal 1, the corresponding material handling and pressing device 3 does not perform the material handling and pressing process. The material handling and pressing device 3 corresponding to the hole 21 where the T-shaped seal 1 needs to be installed performs the material handling and pressing process. Specifically, this can be preset in the control program of the control system.

[0167] The automatic assembly equipment and method of the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0168] 1. The automatic assembly equipment has the characteristics of simple structure and wide application range, and is suitable for any automatic assembly occasion that uses elastic T-type seal 1.

[0169] 2. By controlling the deformation shape of the T-type seal 1 in advance, the problem of incomplete pressing caused by the rebound of the elastic T-type seal 1 in the prior art is solved, effectively preventing quality problems in the automatic assembly of the T-type seal 1 and avoiding the waste of manpower and material resources during rework.

[0170] 3. The automated assembly equipment adopts a three-track automatic feeding system, three-head synchronous material handling, and dual-station operation, achieving full automation of the installation of T-type seal 1. It features high installation efficiency, low operator workload, and high assembly quality. In summary, this invention effectively overcomes the various shortcomings of existing technologies and possesses high industrial application value.

[0171] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Any person skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in the present invention should still be covered by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A material handling and pressing device for a T-type seal, used to assemble a T-type seal (1) into a hole (21) in a workpiece, characterized in that: The device includes a pressure rod (32), a material-receiving sleeve (31), and a material-receiving elastic structure. The material-receiving sleeve (31) is fitted onto the tail end of the pressure rod (32) and can move relative to the pressure rod (32) along its axial direction. The material-receiving elastic structure is used to apply an elastic force toward the tail end of the pressure rod (32) to the material-receiving sleeve (31). The tail end of the material-receiving sleeve (31) is provided with a material-receiving inner hole (311). The diameter of the material-receiving inner hole (311) is smaller than the outer diameter of the T-type seal (1), and the diameter of the material-receiving inner hole (311) is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the hole (21). When the material-receiving sleeve (31) moves relative to the pressure rod (32), the tail end of the pressure rod (32) can extend into the material-receiving inner hole (311).

2. The material handling and pressing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer wall of the pressure bar (32) is provided with a connecting through hole (321), and the two sides of the material taking sleeve (31) are provided with axially extending strip-shaped through holes (314). The material taking pressing device (3) also includes a connecting limiting pin (34) that passes through the connecting through hole (321) and the two sides of the strip-shaped through holes (314).

3. The material handling and pressing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The material taking sleeve (31) includes a main body section (312) and a pressing working section (313) located at the tail end of the main body section (312). The outer diameter of the pressing working section (313) is smaller than the outer diameter of the main body section (312) and smaller than the diameter of the hole (21). The material taking pressing device (3) also includes a buffer spring (36) fitted on the main body section (312) and the tail end of the buffer spring (36) extends to the pressing working section (313).

4. An automatic assembly device for T-type seals, characterized in that: It includes a drive device (6) and a material handling and pressing device (3) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the drive device (6) is connected to the material handling and pressing device (3) and is capable of driving the material handling and pressing device (3) to move in the horizontal and vertical directions.

5. The automatic assembly equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that: It also includes a loading device (4), which includes a loading positioning block (41), a lifting positioning block (42), and a lifting assembly. The loading positioning block (41) is provided with a loading positioning groove (411) and a lifting through hole (412). The loading positioning groove (411) is used for positioning and installing the T-type seal (1). The lifting through hole (412) is located at the bottom of the loading positioning groove (411). The lifting positioning block (42) is located below the lifting through hole (412). The lifting assembly can drive the lifting positioning block (42) to move upward to pass through the lifting through hole (412) or to descend and reset.

6. The automatic assembly equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that: The side wall of the loading positioning groove (411) is provided with an arc positioning surface (413). The loading positioning groove (411) has an opening (414) on the side opposite to the arc positioning surface (413). The opening (414) is used for the T-type seal (1) to enter. The diameter of the arc positioning surface (413) is the same as the radius of the disc part (11) of the T-type seal (1) and is used to fit and position itself against the outer peripheral wall of the disc part (11).

7. The automatic assembly equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that: The loading device (4) also includes a detection sensor (44) for detecting whether the T-type seal (1) is properly positioned in the loading positioning groove (411).

8. The automatic assembly equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that: The lifting positioning block (42) of the loading device (4) is provided with a lifting support surface (42), which is used to abut against the side of the boss (12) of the T-type seal (1) or against the lower end face of the disc part (11).

9. The automatic assembly equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that: It also includes a feeding device (5), which includes a conveyor channel. The outlet of the conveyor channel is connected to the loading positioning block (41) in the loading device (4), which can send the T-shaped seal (1) into the loading positioning groove (411).

10. An automatic assembly method for T-type seals, characterized in that: The assembly is performed using the automated assembly equipment as described in any one of claims 4 to 9, and includes the following steps: Material handling process: The drive device (6) drives the material handling and pressing device (3) to move directly above the T-type seal (1) to be installed, and then drives the material handling pressure bar (32) to move down to the end of the material handling sleeve (31) to contact the upper end face of the disc part (11) of the T-type seal (1); the T-type seal (1) is inserted into the material handling inner hole (311) by pressing. Pressing process: The drive device (6) drives the material taking and pressing device (3) to move directly above the hole (21) of the workpiece, and then drives the pressure bar (32) to descend vertically. The material taking sleeve (31) contacts the periphery of the hole (21), the material taking inner hole (311) extends into the hole (21) or aligns with the opening of the hole (21), the pressure bar (32) presses the T-type seal (1) down into the hole (21), and lifts the pressure bar (32).

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