Telescoping leg assembly line

Abstract

The present application belongs to the field of telescopic supporting leg assembly, and discloses a telescopic supporting leg assembly production line. The telescopic supporting leg assembly production line can sequentially assemble telescopic cylinders and supporting legs (two-stage or more than two-stage supporting legs) in telescopic supporting legs from inside to outside through telescopic cylinder assembly machines, at least one supporting leg assembly machine and a transfer system. During the whole assembly process, each assembly process is automatically executed by the corresponding assembly machine. Two positioning mechanisms in the assembly machine can move towards each other to realize high-precision alignment and assembly, avoid damage to the paint surface of the workpiece and jam during assembly, and improve the assembly quality. In addition, the transfer system is used to realize the transfer of the workpiece between different assembly processes, so that the automation degree of the production line is higher, the labor intensity can be reduced, the risk of physical strain can be reduced, and the operation safety can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of telescopic outrigger assembly technology, and more specifically, to a telescopic outrigger assembly production line. Background Technology

[0002] Existing concrete pump trucks and cranes require outriggers to support their vehicles during construction to ensure stable pumping and concrete placement. These outriggers can be telescopic, capable of both extension and retraction. For example, refer to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The telescopic outrigger 200 shown includes a telescopic cylinder 204, a primary outrigger 201, a secondary outrigger 202, and a tertiary outrigger 203, which are sequentially mounted from the inside out. Driven by a hydraulic system, the telescopic cylinder 204 can drive the primary outrigger 201, the secondary outrigger 202, and the tertiary outrigger 203 to extend or retract.

[0003] Currently, telescopic outriggers are generally assembled using a stationary assembly method. Taking telescopic outrigger 200 as an example, the assembly processes of its telescopic cylinder 204, primary outrigger 201, secondary outrigger 202, and tertiary outrigger 203 are carried out at different stations. When performing a certain assembly process, the two assembly components that need to be assembled are first aligned by manual visual inspection and support, and then one assembly component is forcibly pushed into the other assembly component with the help of a forklift.

[0004] However, the above assembly process requires manual visual inspection and support to align the two components, making it highly dependent on manual skills and unable to effectively guarantee assembly accuracy. Forcing the components in without precise alignment can lead to paint damage, assembly jamming, and other potential problems. Furthermore, since the components are large workpieces, multiple people are needed to assist and align them during assembly, resulting in high labor intensity, safety hazards, and potential physical strain. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides a telescopic outrigger assembly line that can automatically perform each assembly process of the telescopic outrigger, achieve high-precision alignment and assembly, so as to improve assembly quality, reduce manual labor intensity, and improve safety.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a telescopic outrigger assembly line capable of sequentially performing multiple assembly steps to assemble the telescopic cylinder and each stage of the outrigger from the inside out, and includes:

[0007] The telescopic cylinder assembly machine includes a telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism for positioning the telescopic cylinder and a final-stage support leg positioning mechanism for positioning the final-stage support leg. The telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism and the final-stage support leg positioning mechanism are spaced apart and positioned to move relative to each other, so that the telescopic cylinder can be fitted into the final-stage support leg to form a subsequent support leg assembly to participate in the next assembly process.

[0008] At least one outrigger assembly machine, each of the outrigger assembly machines including a rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism capable of positioning the rear outrigger assembly formed after the previous assembly process, and a front outrigger positioning mechanism capable of positioning the front outrigger, which is located one stage before the rear outrigger assembly, in a telescopic outrigger. The front outrigger positioning mechanism and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism are spaced apart and opposite each other and configured to move relative to each other, so that the rear outrigger assembly can be fitted into the front outrigger.

[0009] The transfer system is configured to transfer the telescopic cylinder and the final outrigger to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism and the final outrigger positioning mechanism, respectively, and to transfer the rear outrigger assembly and the front outrigger to the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism and the front outrigger positioning mechanism of the same outrigger assembly machine, respectively.

[0010] Optionally, the transfer system includes a telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor and a support leg dispensing conveyor. The telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor is provided with a telescopic cylinder input position and a cylinder accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction. The support leg dispensing conveyor is provided with a support leg input position and a support leg accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction.

[0011] The telescopic cylinder assembly conveyor is configured to transport the telescopic cylinder input from the telescopic cylinder input position to the cylinder accessory assembly position, so that the telescopic cylinder can have its cylinder accessory installed at the cylinder accessory assembly position before being transferred to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism; the outrigger assembly conveyor is configured to transport the outrigger input from the outrigger input position to the outrigger accessory assembly position, so that the outrigger can have its outrigger accessory installed at the outrigger accessory assembly position before being transferred to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

[0012] Optionally, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring telescopic cylinders equipped with cylinder accessories on the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism.

[0013] Optionally, the telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor is configured to transport telescopic cylinders equipped with cylinder accessories to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism.

[0014] Optionally, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the telescopic cylinder to the input position of the telescopic cylinder.

[0015] Optionally, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments on the outrigger dispensing conveyor to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

[0016] Optionally, the transfer system includes multiple outrigger dispensing conveyors that correspond one-to-one with each level of the telescopic outriggers, and at least one of the outrigger dispensing conveyors is configured to convey outriggers equipped with outrigger accessories to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

[0017] Optionally, at least one of the outrigger positioning mechanisms that can input outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments from the outrigger disassembly conveyor is configured as a positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism. The positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism is configured to participate in the non-final assembly process. The outrigger disassembly conveyor that can convey outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments to the positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism is configured as a disassembly and transfer assembly process conveyor.

[0018] The positioning and assembly ejection mechanism is configured to eject the rear support leg assembly assembled in the current assembly process to the sub-assembly and transfer assembly process conveyor. The sub-assembly and transfer assembly process conveyor is configured to further convey the rear support leg assembly ejected from the positioning and assembly ejection mechanism along the conveying direction to the rear support leg assembly positioning mechanism that participates in the next assembly process.

[0019] Optionally, the transfer equipment includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the rear outrigger assembly formed after the previous assembly process to the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism that participates in the next assembly process.

[0020] Optionally, the telescopic outrigger assembly line includes an automated warehouse capable of storing and retrieving outriggers of various levels, and the transfer system is configured to transfer outriggers retrieved from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

[0021] Optionally, the telescopic outrigger assembly line includes a production execution system capable of storing production plans for multiple models of telescopic outriggers and selectively outputting multiple production plans. The automated warehouse communicates with the production execution system and is configured to retrieve each level of the corresponding model of telescopic outrigger according to the production plan.

[0022] Optionally, the transfer system includes a transfer actuator, a first outrigger model identification device, and a first processing device. The first processing device communicates with the first outrigger model identification device and the production execution system. The first outrigger model identification device is configured to identify the outrigger model of the outrigger retrieved from the automated warehouse. The first processing device is configured to determine that the outrigger model conforms to the production plan in order to control the transfer actuator to transfer the outrigger retrieved from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

[0023] Optionally, the first processing device communicates with the automated warehouse. The first processing device is configured to determine that the outrigger model does not conform to the production plan, generate a recall error signal, and send the recall error signal to the automated warehouse. The automated warehouse is configured to retrieve the incorrectly recalled outrigger according to the recall error signal and recall the corresponding outrigger according to the production plan.

[0024] Optionally, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the outriggers of the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

[0025] Optionally, the telescopic cylinder assembly machine includes a telescopic cylinder model identification device capable of identifying the telescopic cylinder model in the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism, a second support leg model identification device capable of identifying the support leg model in the final support leg positioning mechanism, and a second processing device storing a preset model matching relationship. The second processing device communicates with the telescopic cylinder model identification device and the second support leg model identification device. The second processing device is configured to determine that the telescopic cylinder model and the support leg model conform to the model matching relationship in order to control the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism and the final support leg positioning mechanism to move relative to each other.

[0026] Optionally, the second processing device is configured to determine that the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model do not conform to the model matching relationship in order to control the telescopic cylinder assembly to issue an error matching signal.

[0027] Optionally, the outrigger assembly machine includes a third outrigger model identification device capable of identifying the model of the front outrigger in the front outrigger positioning mechanism, a fourth outrigger model identification device capable of identifying the model of the rear outrigger assembly in the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism, and a third processing device storing preset model matching relationships. The third processing device communicates with the third outrigger model identification device and the fourth outrigger model identification device. The third processing device is configured to determine that the model of the front outrigger and the model of the rear outrigger assembly conform to the model matching relationship in order to control the front outrigger positioning mechanism and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism to move relative to each other.

[0028] Optionally, the third processing device is configured to determine that the model of the front outrigger and the model of the rear outrigger assembly do not match the model matching relationship in order to control the outrigger assembly machine to issue an error matching signal.

[0029] Optionally, the transfer system includes a telescopic outrigger conveyor, and the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism, which participates in the final assembly process, is connected to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor and is provided with a telescopic outrigger pushing mechanism capable of pushing the assembled telescopic outrigger to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor.

[0030] Through the above technical solution, the telescopic outrigger assembly line of the present invention performs each step of the assembly process of assembling the telescopic cylinder and each level of outrigger from the inside out by a corresponding assembly machine.

[0031] The telescopic cylinder assembly machine performs the first assembly step, fitting the telescopic cylinder into the final stage outrigger to form the first rear outrigger assembly. This first rear outrigger assembly is then transferred by a transfer system to a second assembly machine, where it fits into the preceding front outrigger. If the telescopic outrigger has only two stages, it is assembled after the second assembly step. If the telescopic outrigger has more than two stages, a second rear outrigger assembly is formed after the second assembly step. In this case, the second rear outrigger assembly is transferred by the transfer system to a third assembly machine, where it fits into the preceding front outrigger. This process continues until the final assembly step is completed, completing the telescopic outrigger assembly.

[0032] Throughout the entire assembly process described above, each assembly step is automatically executed by the corresponding assembly machine. The two positioning mechanisms in the assembly machine ensure alignment accuracy before assembly, preventing damage to the workpiece paint and jamming during assembly, thereby improving assembly quality. Furthermore, the use of a transfer system to move workpieces between different assembly steps further enhances the automation of the production line, reducing manual labor intensity, lowering the risk of physical strain, and improving operational safety.

[0033] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the invention, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pump truck equipped with telescopic outriggers in the prior art;

[0036] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the telescopic outrigger in its extended state;

[0037] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the telescopic outrigger in its retracted state;

[0038] Figures 4 to 6 These are schematic diagrams of three different telescopic outrigger assembly lines in specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 7 for Figures 4 to 6 The telescopic cylinder assembly machine is used to perform the first assembly process.

[0040] Figure 8 for Figures 4 to 6 The leg assembly machine used to perform the second assembly process;

[0041] Figure 9 for Figures 4 to 6 The leg assembly machine used to perform the third assembly process;

[0042] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the operation process of a telescopic outrigger assembly line according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0044] 100 Telescopic Outrigger Assembly Line

[0045] 101 Shelf 102 Stacker Crane

[0046] 103 Outbound platform 104 First AGV trolley

[0047] 105 First gantry robot; 106 Telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor

[0048] 107 Outrigger Packaging Conveyor; 108 Telescopic Cylinder Assembly Machine

[0049] 109 Outrigger Assembly Machine 110 Second Truss Robot Arm

[0050] 111 Telescopic outrigger conveyor; 112 Second AGV trolley

[0051] 108a Telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism; 108b Final stage outrigger positioning mechanism

[0052] 109a Rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism; 109b Front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism

[0053] 200 telescopic outriggers

[0054] 201 Primary outrigger; 202 Secondary outrigger.

[0055] 203 Three-stage outriggers; 204 Telescopic cylinder

[0056] 205 Hydraulic accessories 206 Fixing pin

[0057] 207 Roller 208 Support Roller Detailed Implementation

[0058] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0059] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0060] In the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," and "bottom" are generally used to describe the relative positional relationships of the components in relation to the directions shown in the accompanying drawings or in relation to the vertical, perpendicular, or gravitational directions.

[0061] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments.

[0062] First refer to Figures 1 to 3 The figure shows a telescopic outrigger 200 commonly found in the prior art, which typically includes a primary outrigger 201, a secondary outrigger 202, a tertiary outrigger 203, a telescopic cylinder 204, a hydraulic accessory 205, a fixing pin 206, a roller 207, and a support roller 208.

[0063] The telescopic cylinder 204, the third-stage outrigger 203, the second-stage outrigger 202, and the first-stage outrigger 201 are sequentially assembled from the inside out. Each outrigger is fixedly connected to the telescopic cylinder 204 via a corresponding fixing pin 206. The telescopic cylinder 204 is a telescopic hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic system in the pump truck can drive hydraulic oil through hydraulic pipelines, hydraulic valves, and other hydraulic accessories 205 to enter the telescopic cylinder 204 to drive it to extend or retract, thereby correspondingly driving the telescopic outrigger 200 to extend or retract. The rollers 207 and the support rollers 208 provide guidance when the telescopic outrigger 200 extends or retracts.

[0064] It should be noted that the telescopic outrigger 200 may have only two outriggers, meaning that the telescopic outrigger 200 does not have a third-stage outrigger 203. Alternatively, the telescopic outrigger 200 may have more than three outriggers, meaning that the telescopic outrigger 200 may also have one or more outriggers located after the third-stage outrigger 203. For example, the telescopic outrigger 200 may also have a fourth-stage outrigger, in which case the telescopic cylinder 204, the fourth-stage outrigger, the third-stage outrigger 203, the second-stage outrigger 202, and the first-stage outrigger 201 are sequentially assembled from the inside out.

[0065] Generally, for any two adjacent outriggers in the telescopic outrigger 200, the outrigger relatively closer to the pump truck (or crane, etc.) body when the telescopic outrigger 200 is extended is considered the pre-stage outrigger, while the outrigger relatively farther away from the pump truck body is considered the post-stage outrigger. Pre-stage and post-stage are relative concepts; therefore, a pre-stage or post-stage outrigger does not specifically refer to any one outrigger in the telescopic outrigger 200. However, the first-stage outrigger can specifically refer to the outrigger closest to the pump truck body when the telescopic outrigger 200 is extended, and the last-stage outrigger can specifically refer to the outrigger furthest from the pump truck body when the telescopic outrigger 200 is extended.

[0066] For example, taking the telescopic outrigger 200 in the diagram as an example, its first-stage outrigger is the first-level outrigger 201, and its last-stage outrigger is the third-level outrigger 203. For the first-level outrigger 201 and the second-level outrigger 202, the first-level outrigger 201 is the preceding outrigger relative to the second-level outrigger 202, and the second-level outrigger 202 is the following outrigger relative to the first-level outrigger 201. The same logic applies to the second-level outrigger 202 and the third-level outrigger 203.

[0067] In the prior art, the telescopic outriggers 200 shown in the diagram are typically assembled in the following order: telescopic cylinder 204, tertiary outrigger 203, secondary outrigger 202, and primary outrigger 201, fitted together from the inside out. After the first assembly step, the telescopic cylinder 204 is fitted into the tertiary outrigger 203, and the two together form the first rear-stage outrigger assembly. During the second assembly step, the secondary outrigger 202 is considered a pre-stage outrigger relative to the first rear-stage outrigger assembly. After the second assembly step, the tertiary outrigger 203, containing the telescopic cylinder 204, is fitted into the secondary outrigger 202, and the three together form the second rear-stage outrigger assembly. During the third assembly step, the primary outrigger 201 is considered a pre-stage outrigger relative to the second rear outrigger assembly. After the third assembly step is completed, the secondary outrigger 202, which contains the telescopic cylinder 204 and the tertiary outrigger 203, is inserted into the primary outrigger 201, thus assembling the telescopic outrigger 200. Furthermore, for telescopic outriggers 200 with two or more outriggers, the same concept of relative concept between the rear outrigger assembly and the pre-stage outrigger relative to that rear outrigger assembly also applies when assembling in the aforementioned order of assembly from the inside out.

[0068] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The following describes a telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. This line is capable of sequentially performing multiple assembly steps to assemble the telescopic cylinder 204 and each stage of outriggers in the telescopic outrigger 200 from the inside out. The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 is applicable to the assembly of telescopic outriggers 200 with two or more stages of outriggers.

[0069] The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 includes a telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108, at least one outrigger assembly machine 109, and a transfer system.

[0070] Specifically, refer to Figure 7 The telescopic cylinder assembly 108 includes a telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and a final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b, which are spaced apart and capable of moving relative to each other. The telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a positions the telescopic cylinder 204, and the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b positions the final-stage outrigger. The relative movement of the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b is not limited. For example, one of the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b can be set as a fixed mechanism and the other as a moving mechanism, or both the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b can be set as moving mechanisms.

[0071] After positioning the telescopic cylinder 204 and the final support leg respectively, by driving the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final support leg positioning mechanism 108b to move relative to each other, the telescopic cylinder 204 can be fitted into the final support leg to form the rear support leg assembly to participate in the next assembly process.

[0072] The specific number of outrigger assembly machines 109 is related to the number of outriggers in telescopic outriggers 200. Since the assembly process of the final outrigger and telescopic cylinder 204 is performed by telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108, and the assembly of the remaining outriggers at each level corresponds to one assembly process, the number of outrigger assembly machines 109 should always be one less than the number of outriggers in telescopic outriggers 200.

[0073] Reference Figure 8 or Figure 9For a single outrigger assembly machine 109, it includes a rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and a front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b, which are spaced apart and capable of moving relative to each other. The rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a can position the rear outrigger assembly formed after the previous assembly process, and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b can position the front outrigger of the telescopic outrigger 200 located at the stage preceding the rear outrigger assembly. The relative movement mode of the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b is not limited. For example, one of the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b can be set as a fixed mechanism and the other as a moving mechanism, or both the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b can be set as moving mechanisms.

[0074] After positioning the rear outrigger assembly and the front outrigger respectively, the rear outrigger assembly can be inserted into the front outrigger by driving the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b to move relative to each other. Specifically, the outrigger located at the foremost stage in the rear outrigger assembly is inserted into the front outrigger.

[0075] The transfer system is configured to transfer the telescopic cylinder 204 and the last outrigger to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the last outrigger positioning mechanism 108b, respectively, and to transfer the rear outrigger assembly and the front outrigger to the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a and the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b of the same outrigger assembly machine 109.

[0076] As can be seen from the above settings, in the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 of this exemplary embodiment, each step of the assembly process when the telescopic cylinder 204 and each level of outrigger in the telescopic outrigger 200 are assembled from the inside out is performed by the corresponding assembly machine.

[0077] The telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108 performs the first assembly step to fit the telescopic cylinder 204 into the final stage support leg, thus forming the first rear stage support leg assembly. The first rear stage support leg assembly is then transferred by a transfer system to the support leg assembly machine 109, which performs the second assembly step. The support leg assembly machine 109 fits the first rear stage support leg assembly into the preceding stage support leg. If the telescopic support leg 200 has only two stages, it is assembled after the second assembly step. If the telescopic support leg 200 has more than two stages, a second rear stage support leg assembly is formed after the second assembly step. In this case, the second rear stage support leg assembly is transferred by a transfer system to the support leg assembly machine 109, which performs the third assembly step. The support leg assembly machine 109 fits the second rear stage support leg assembly into the preceding stage support leg. This process continues until the final assembly step is completed to form the telescopic outriggers 200mm in shape.

[0078] Throughout the entire assembly process described above, each assembly step is automatically executed by the corresponding assembly machine. The two positioning mechanisms in the assembly machine ensure alignment accuracy before assembly, preventing damage to the workpiece paint and jamming during assembly, thereby improving assembly quality. Furthermore, the use of a transfer system to move workpieces between different assembly steps further enhances the automation of the production line, reducing manual labor intensity, lowering the risk of physical strain, and improving operational safety.

[0079] In the prior art, hydraulic attachments 205, rollers 207 and support rollers 208 generally need to be pre-assembled before the assembly process of telescopic cylinder 204 and each stage of outriggers. The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 of this exemplary embodiment can also follow this assembly sequence, but it is implemented through a novel production line structure that is different from the prior art.

[0080] Specifically, the transfer system may include a telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 and a support leg dispensing conveyor 107.

[0081] The telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106 is provided with a telescopic cylinder input position and a cylinder accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction. The telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106 can convey the telescopic cylinder 204 input from the telescopic cylinder input position to the cylinder accessory assembly position, so that the telescopic cylinder 204 can be equipped with cylinder accessories at the cylinder accessory assembly position before being transferred to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a. The cylinder accessory is usually a partial hydraulic accessory 205.

[0082] Similarly, the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 is provided with an outrigger input position and an outrigger accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction. The outrigger assembly conveyor 107 can convey the outrigger input from the outrigger input position to the outrigger accessory assembly position so that the outrigger can be equipped with outrigger accessories at the outrigger accessory assembly position before being transferred to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism (i.e., the aforementioned final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b or the preceding outrigger positioning mechanism 109b). The outrigger accessories are typically some of the hydraulic accessories 205, rollers 207 and support rollers 208.

[0083] Only one outrigger assembly conveyor 107 may be provided. In this case, all outriggers of each level in the telescopic outrigger 200 are conveyed by the same outrigger assembly conveyor 107 to their respective outrigger accessory assembly positions for the installation of outrigger accessories. Alternatively, multiple outrigger assembly conveyors 107 may be provided, preferably the same number as the number of outriggers in the telescopic outrigger 200, so that each level of outrigger can be conveyed in a one-to-one correspondence, and each level of outrigger can be assembled with outrigger accessories at the corresponding outrigger accessory assembly position on the outrigger assembly conveyor 107.

[0084] The specific types of telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 and outrigger dispensing conveyor 107 are not limited. For example, belt conveyors, plate chain conveyors, etc. can be used, as long as they can ensure the smooth conveying of telescopic cylinder 204 and outriggers.

[0085] In addition, the specific execution method of the installation process of the telescopic cylinder 204 at the cylinder accessory assembly position and the installation process of the outrigger at the outrigger accessory assembly position is not limited. For example, it can be installed manually, by automated equipment (robots, etc.), or by a combination of human and machine.

[0086] In one embodiment employing a human-machine collaborative approach to bolt installation (especially critical bolts such as hydraulic pipe joints), error-proofing measures can be implemented to prevent incorrect or missing installations. Specifically, the tightening system pre-sets the number of bolts and bolt tightening torque specifications for various outrigger models. Before bolt installation, the outrigger model is manually identified by scanning a barcode, and the tightening system automatically switches programs. If the tightening torque of a single bolt is unqualified, the tightening system alarms to prompt re-tightening. After successful tightening, the tightening system counts the bolts. Once all bolts are confirmed to be properly tightened, the tightening system sends a signal to the corresponding assembly conveyor, which then unlocks and releases the conveyor to continue transporting the bolted outriggers.

[0087] In the existing technology, the transfer of large workpieces such as telescopic cylinder 204, outriggers at all levels, and each rear outrigger assembly is achieved by forklift handling or manual overhead crane lifting. These transfer methods involve a high degree of manual intervention, are labor-intensive, and pose a risk of workers being hit by workpieces, thus having an adverse impact on production efficiency and the occupational health of workers.

[0088] To solve the above problems, the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 of this exemplary embodiment preferably uses a highly automated method such as conveyor conveying or programmable transfer equipment to transfer large workpieces in a non-conveying manner (of course, a conveying method is also possible). The following is a detailed description through several examples.

[0089] In one embodiment, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device, which can be an automated device such as a gantry robot, an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), or a robot, capable of transferring the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories from the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a. For example, when using a gantry robot or a robot, the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories can be automatically picked up directly from the cylinder accessory assembly position for transfer. Alternatively, the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 can first transport the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories to a workstation located downstream of the cylinder accessory assembly position, and then the gantry robot or robot can automatically pick it up and transfer it. Or, when using an AGV, the AGV can automatically travel to the output end of the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106, and the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 can directly output the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories to the AGV, which then automatically transports the telescopic cylinder 204.

[0090] In one embodiment, the telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106 can continue to convey the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a along the conveying direction, that is, there is no need to use other programmable transfer equipment to transfer the telescopic cylinder 204. For example, the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a can be set at a station downstream of the cylinder accessory assembly station on the telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106. Alternatively, the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a can be set at the output end of the telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106, in which case the telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor 106 can directly output the telescopic cylinder 204 equipped with cylinder accessories to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a.

[0091] In one embodiment, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device, which can be an automated device such as a gantry robot, an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), or a robot, capable of transferring the telescopic cylinder 204 to the telescopic cylinder input position for entry into the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106. For example, when using a gantry robot or a robot, the telescopic cylinder 204 can be automatically picked up from other positions on the production line and moved to the telescopic cylinder input position. Alternatively, when using an AGV, the AGV can receive the telescopic cylinder 204 from other positions on the production line, then automatically travel to the input end of the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106, and then release the telescopic cylinder 204 to the telescopic cylinder input position.

[0092] In one embodiment, the transfer system includes a programmable transfer device, which can be an automated device such as a gantry robot, an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), or a robot, capable of transferring outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments from the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism (i.e., the aforementioned final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b or the preceding-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b). For example, when using a gantry robot or robot, the outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments can be automatically picked up directly from the outrigger attachment assembly position for transfer. Alternatively, the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 can first transport the outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments to a workstation located downstream of the outrigger attachment assembly position, and then the gantry robot or robot can automatically pick them up and transfer them. Or, when using an AGV, the AGV can automatically travel to the output end of the outrigger assembly conveyor 107, whereby the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 can directly output the outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments to the AGV, which then automatically transports the outriggers.

[0093] In one embodiment, the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 is provided with multiple conveyors, each corresponding to a different level of outrigger in the telescopic outrigger 200. At least one outrigger assembly conveyor 107 can continue to transport the outrigger equipped with outrigger attachments along the conveying direction to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism (i.e., the aforementioned final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b or the preceding-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b). In this case, the outrigger equipped with outrigger attachments on this outrigger assembly conveyor 107 does not need to be transferred to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism using other programmable transfer equipment. For example, the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism can be located at a station downstream of the outrigger attachment assembly position on the outrigger assembly conveyor 107. Alternatively, the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism can be located at the output end of the outrigger assembly conveyor 107, in which case the outrigger assembly conveyor 107 can directly output the outrigger equipped with outrigger attachments to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

[0094] Furthermore, for the outrigger positioning mechanism capable of inputting outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments from the outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107, at least one is configured as a positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism, which participates in performing a non-final assembly process. The outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107, capable of conveying the outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments to the positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism, is correspondingly configured as a sub-assembly and reassembly process conveyor. The positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism is configured to push the subsequent outrigger assembly assembled in the current assembly process to the sub-assembly and reassembly process conveyor, which is configured to further convey the subsequent outrigger assembly pushed out from the positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism along the conveying direction to the subsequent outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a, which participates in performing the next assembly process.

[0095] In other words, the rear support leg assembly assembled in the positioning and assembly ejection mechanism can be directly transported by the sub-assembly and transfer assembly conveyor to the rear support leg assembly positioning mechanism 109a, which will participate in the next assembly process. Therefore, the sub-assembly and transfer assembly conveyor can transport not only the support legs equipped with support leg accessories, but also the rear support leg assembly. This method of transferring the rear support leg assembly makes the transfer assembly process of the production line more continuous, thereby effectively improving assembly efficiency.

[0096] Now Figure 4 Using a local structure in the production line shown as an example, the conveying and transfer method of the above-mentioned rear support leg assembly will be explained more clearly.

[0097] Specifically, this production line is suitable for assembling telescopic outriggers 200 equipped with primary outriggers 201, secondary outriggers 202, and tertiary outriggers 203. Therefore, the production line is equipped with a telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108 and two outrigger assembly machines 109 (one on the left and one on the right, according to the direction shown in the figure). The right outrigger assembly machine 109 is used to perform the second assembly process, and the left outrigger assembly machine 109 is used to perform the third (i.e., the final) assembly process. In addition, the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b in the right outrigger assembly machine 109 is set at the assembly station of the outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107 used to transport the secondary outriggers 202, and the rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a in the left outrigger assembly machine 109 is set at the station downstream of the assembly station of the outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107 used to transport the secondary outriggers 202.

[0098] After the right-side outrigger assembly machine 109 completes the second assembly process, its front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b can push the assembled rear-stage outrigger assembly to the outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107 for conveying the secondary outrigger 202. Then, the outrigger sub-assembly conveyor 107 for conveying the secondary outrigger 202 can directly further convey the rear-stage outrigger assembly to the rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a in the left-side outrigger assembly machine 109.

[0099] Therefore, for Figure 4 In the production line shown, the front-stage support leg positioning mechanism 109b in the support leg assembly machine 109 on the right is equivalent to the aforementioned positioning and assembly and push-out mechanism, while the support leg disassembly conveyor 107 used to transport the secondary support leg 202 is equivalent to the aforementioned disassembly and transfer assembly process conveyor.

[0100] In one embodiment, the transfer equipment includes a programmable transfer device, which can be an automated device such as a gantry robot, AGV, or robot, capable of transferring the rear leg assembly formed after the previous assembly process to the rear leg assembly positioning mechanism 109a that participates in the next assembly process.

[0101] The above-listed embodiments for automated transfer of large workpieces such as telescopic cylinder 204, outriggers at all levels, and rear outrigger assemblies can be flexibly combined and set according to actual production needs, so that the transfer system of the production line has diversified transfer functions such as programmable hoisting, programmable handling, and conveying transfer, thereby improving the adaptability of the transfer system.

[0102] As described in the background section, existing telescopic outrigger assembly is generally done using a station-based method. Before performing the outrigger accessory installation and assembly processes for each level of outrigger, each level of outrigger first needs to be transported from a distance by forklift to its corresponding buffer area, which is usually located at the edge of the existing production line.

[0103] The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 in this exemplary embodiment eliminates the need for buffer zones along the outrigger line, instead using an automated warehouse to centrally store outriggers of all levels. This warehouse is positioned within the travel range of the transfer system, enabling short-distance automated transport of outriggers from the warehouse to the assembly area. By eliminating the need for manual forklift operation and significantly reducing transport distances, the automation level and production efficiency of the production line are greatly improved.

[0104] Specifically, refer to Figures 4 to 6 The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 includes an automated warehouse capable of storing and retrieving outriggers of various levels from the telescopic outriggers 200. A transfer system is configured to transport outriggers retrieved from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position of the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107. For example, the automated warehouse may include racks 101, a stacker crane 102, an outbound platform 103, and a warehouse management system (WMS). The racks 101 store outriggers of various levels. The outbound platform 103 may be a static platform or a roller conveyor with conveying function. The WMS can control the stacker crane 102 to retrieve the corresponding outriggers from the racks 101 according to the actual production plan and then transport the outriggers to the outbound platform 103. The transfer system can then transport the outriggers located on the outbound platform 103 to the outrigger input position of the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107.

[0105] It should be noted that when the support leg dispensing conveyor 107 is equipped with multiple support legs that correspond one-to-one with the various levels of support legs in the telescopic support legs 200, the transfer system can transfer the various levels of support legs located on the outgoing platform 103 to the support leg input position of the corresponding support leg dispensing conveyor 107.

[0106] The transfer of outriggers from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position of the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107 can be executed by setting up a programmable transfer device in the transfer system. This programmable transfer device can be an automated device such as a gantry robot, an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), or a robot. For example, when using a gantry robot or a robot, the outriggers on the outbound platform 103 can be automatically picked up and transferred to the outrigger input position of the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107. Alternatively, when using an AGV, the AGV can receive the outriggers from the outbound platform 103, then automatically travel to the input end of the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107, and then release the outriggers to the outrigger input position.

[0107] To make the same telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 suitable for assembling different models of telescopic outriggers 200 and to have greater adaptability, the following optimization settings can be made to the production line.

[0108] Regarding material storage, the automated warehouse is configured to simultaneously store various levels of telescopic outriggers 200 of multiple models. For outrigger retrieval, a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) can be installed in the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100. This MES is configured to store production plans for multiple models of telescopic outriggers 200 and to selectively output multiple production plans. The automated warehouse communicates with the MES and is configured to retrieve various levels of the corresponding model of telescopic outrigger 200 based on the production plans received from the MES. For example, in an automated warehouse including racks 101, a stacker crane 102, an outbound platform 103, and a warehouse management system, the warehouse management system communicates with the MES and is configured to control the stacker crane 102 to retrieve various levels of the corresponding model of telescopic outrigger 200 from racks 101 based on the production plans received from the MES and transport the various levels of the outriggers to the outbound platform 103.

[0109] As can be seen, when the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) outputs a production plan, it determines which type of telescopic outrigger 200 the production line needs to assemble. The automated warehouse will then retrieve the corresponding types of telescopic outrigger 200 at each stage. When the production plan output by the MES changes, the production line automatically switches to assembling other corresponding types of telescopic outrigger 200.

[0110] If the automated warehouse can retrieve the corresponding telescopic outriggers 200 at all levels according to the production plan received from the production execution system, the transfer system can be further configured to have an outrigger model identification function to confirm whether the outrigger model retrieved from the automated warehouse meets the current production plan requirements, so as to avoid transferring the wrong model of outrigger to the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107, thereby playing a role in preventing transfer errors.

[0111] Specifically, the transfer system may include a transfer actuator, a first leg model identification device, and a first processing device. The first processing device communicates with the first leg model identification device and the production execution system. The first leg model identification device is configured to identify the leg model of the leg retrieved from the automated warehouse. The first processing device is configured to determine that the leg model conforms to the production plan in order to control the transfer actuator to transfer the leg retrieved from the automated warehouse to the leg input position of the leg dispensing conveyor 107.

[0112] In other words, the first processing device can first obtain the information of the support leg model from the first support leg model identification device and the information of the production plan from the production execution system. Then, the first processing device determines whether the support leg model conforms to the production plan. Only when it is determined that the support leg model conforms to the production plan will it control the transfer execution mechanism to transfer the support leg transferred from the automated warehouse to the support leg input position of the support leg dispensing conveyor 107.

[0113] Furthermore, the first processing device can communicate with the automated warehouse. The first processing device is further configured to determine if the outrigger model does not conform to the production plan, generate a recall error signal, and send this signal to the automated warehouse. The automated warehouse is configured to retrieve the incorrectly recalled outrigger based on the recall error signal and re-recall the corresponding outrigger according to the production plan. With this configuration, the automated warehouse can automatically execute remedial measures in the event of a recall error, preventing production stoppages.

[0114] As an example, the transfer system may include a gantry robot integrating a transfer actuator, a first leg model identification device, and a first processing device. For instance, the first leg model identification device on the gantry robot may be a vision recognition device. Before transferring the legs retrieved from the automated warehouse, the gantry robot first identifies the identification code (such as a barcode or QR code) pre-set on the legs using the vision recognition device (such as a camera). Then, the first processing device obtains the leg model information stored on the identification code by communicating with the vision recognition device and obtains production plan information by communicating with the production execution system. If the leg model is determined to match the production plan, the gantry robot uses its own transfer actuator (such as a suction cup) to transfer the legs retrieved from the automated warehouse to the leg input position of the leg dispensing conveyor 107. If it is determined that the support leg model does not conform to the production plan, the first processing equipment generates a recall error signal and outputs it to the warehouse management system. After receiving the recall error signal, the warehouse management system controls the stacker crane 102 to return the incorrectly recalled support leg to its original position on the shelf 101, and controls the stacker crane 102 to recall the corresponding support leg according to the production plan to move the support leg to the outbound platform 103.

[0115] In addition to the aforementioned error prevention measures for installation and outbound transportation, the production line can also implement error prevention measures for the assembly process before performing the assembly process.

[0116] First, let's introduce the error prevention measures for the first step of the assembly process.

[0117] Specifically, the telescopic cylinder fitting machine 108 may include a telescopic cylinder model identification device, a second outrigger model identification device, and a second processing device. The telescopic cylinder model identification device is configured to identify the telescopic cylinder model of the telescopic cylinder 204 in the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a; the second outrigger model identification device is configured to identify the outrigger model of the final outrigger in the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b; and the second processing device stores a preset model matching relationship (specifically, a matching relationship between the telescopic cylinder model and the final outrigger model). Furthermore, the second processing device communicates with the telescopic cylinder model identification device and the second outrigger model identification device, and is configured to determine if the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model conform to the model matching relationship to control the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b to move relative to each other, thereby fitting the telescopic cylinder 204 into the final outrigger.

[0118] In other words, the second processing device can first obtain the telescopic model information from the telescopic cylinder model identification device and the support leg model information of the final support leg from the second support leg model identification device. Then, the second processing device determines whether the telescopic model and the support leg model of the final support leg conform to the pre-stored model matching relationship. Only when it is determined that the model matching relationship is conformed will the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108 be controlled to perform the first step assembly process.

[0119] Furthermore, the second processing device can also be configured to determine if the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model do not match, thereby controlling the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108 to issue an error matching signal. For example, the production line can be equipped with a human-machine interface that communicates with the second processing device. After receiving the error matching signal, the human-machine interface can provide a reminder in the form of images, text, sound, etc. At this time, manual intervention can be carried out to remove the incorrect telescopic cylinder 204 or the final outrigger from the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108, thereby avoiding incorrect installation.

[0120] As an example, a visual recognition device (such as a camera) can be installed on both the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b, serving as a telescopic cylinder model recognition device and a second outrigger model recognition device. After the telescopic cylinder 204 and the final outrigger are placed in the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b, respectively, the two visual recognition devices respectively recognize two identification codes (such as barcodes or QR codes) pre-set on the telescopic cylinder 204 and the final outrigger. Then, the second processing device communicates with the two visual recognition devices to obtain the telescopic cylinder model information and the final outrigger model information stored on the two identification codes. If the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model are determined to be compatible, the second processing device controls the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b to position the telescopic cylinder 204 and the final outrigger respectively. Then, the device controls the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a and the final outrigger positioning mechanism 108b to move relative to each other, thereby fitting the telescopic cylinder 204 into the final outrigger. If the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model are determined to be incompatible, the second processing device sends an error matching signal to the human-machine interface (HMI). The HMI provides a warning, and manual intervention is possible to remove the incorrect telescopic cylinder 204 or the final outrigger from the telescopic cylinder fitting machine 108a.

[0121] Next, we will introduce the error prevention measures for the second step and the subsequent assembly process. The principle of error prevention measures for each assembly process is basically the same.

[0122] Specifically, the outrigger assembly 109 may include a third outrigger model identification device, a fourth outrigger model identification device, and a third processing device. The third outrigger model identification device is configured to identify the model of the front-stage outrigger in the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b. The fourth outrigger model identification device is configured to identify the model of the rear-stage outrigger assembly in the rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a (specifically, the model of the outrigger at the first stage in the rear-stage outrigger assembly). The third processing device stores preset model matching relationships (specifically, the matching relationship between the front-stage outrigger model and the rear-stage outrigger assembly model). Furthermore, the third processing device communicates with the third and fourth outrigger model identification devices, and is configured to determine if the front-stage outrigger model and the rear-stage outrigger assembly model conform to the model matching relationship, thereby controlling the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a to move relative to each other, thus fitting the rear-stage outrigger assembly into the front-stage outrigger.

[0123] In other words, the third processing device can first obtain the information of the front-stage outrigger model from the third outrigger model identification device and the information of the rear-stage outrigger assembly model from the fourth outrigger model identification device. Then, the third processing device determines whether the front-stage outrigger model and the rear-stage outrigger assembly model match the pre-stored model matching relationship. Only when it is determined that the model matching relationship matches, will it control the outrigger assembly machine 109 to perform the corresponding assembly process.

[0124] Furthermore, the third processing device can also be configured to determine if the model of the front-stage support leg and the model of the rear-stage support leg assembly do not match, thereby controlling the support leg assembly machine 109 to issue an error matching signal. For example, the production line can be equipped with a human-machine interface that communicates with the third processing device. After receiving the error matching signal, the human-machine interface can provide a reminder in the form of images, text, sound, etc. At this time, manual intervention can be carried out to remove the incorrect model of the front-stage support leg or the rear-stage support leg assembly from the support leg assembly machine 109, thereby avoiding incorrect installation.

[0125] As an example, a visual recognition device (such as a camera) can be installed on both the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a, serving as the third and fourth outrigger model recognition devices, respectively. After the front outrigger and the rear outrigger assembly are placed in the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a, respectively, the two visual recognition devices identify two identification codes (such as barcodes or QR codes) pre-set on the first outrigger in the front outrigger and the rear outrigger assembly. Then, the third processing device communicates with the two visual recognition devices to obtain the front outrigger model information and the rear outrigger assembly model information stored on the two identification codes. If the model numbers of the front outrigger and the rear outrigger assembly are confirmed to be compatible, the third processing device controls the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a to position the front outrigger and the rear outrigger assembly respectively. Then, it controls the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a to move relative to each other, thereby fitting the rear outrigger assembly into the front outrigger. If the model numbers of the front outrigger and the rear outrigger assembly are confirmed to be incompatible, the third processing device sends an error matching signal to the human-machine interface (HMI). The HMI provides a warning, and manual intervention is possible to remove the incorrect model of the front outrigger or rear outrigger assembly from the outrigger assembly assembly 109.

[0126] The telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 of this exemplary embodiment can also automatically output the assembled telescopic outriggers 200. For example, the transfer system may be equipped with a telescopic outrigger conveyor 111, and a front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b participating in the final assembly process is connected to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111 and is equipped with a telescopic outrigger ejection mechanism. After the telescopic outrigger 200 is assembled in the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b participating in the final assembly process, the telescopic outrigger ejection mechanism can push the telescopic outrigger 200 to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111, and then the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111 continues to automatically output the telescopic outrigger 200.

[0127] Furthermore, the transfer system may also be equipped with an AGV trolley capable of receiving the telescopic outrigger 200 from the output end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111 and transporting it to a subsequent workstation outside the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100, thereby enabling the telescopic outrigger 200 to automatically transfer to a workstation after being output from the production line.

[0128] The following is based on Figure 4 and Figure 10 Using the production line structure and workflow shown as examples, this paper details the complete operating principle of a telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 to help to more clearly understand the concept of this invention. From Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 includes two sub-assembly lines arranged symmetrically (in terms of the orientation shown in the diagram). These lines are capable of simultaneously assembling two telescopic outriggers 200 located on the left and right sides of a pump truck (or crane, etc.). Both the left and right telescopic outriggers are equipped with a primary outrigger 201, a secondary outrigger 202, a tertiary outrigger 203, a telescopic cylinder 204, a hydraulic accessory 205, a fixing pin 206, a roller 207, and a support roller 208. The connections between these components have been detailed previously and will not be repeated here. Since the two sub-assembly lines have identical structures and workflows, only the operational steps of the upper sub-assembly line shown in the diagram are described below:

[0129] 1. The primary support legs 201, secondary support legs 202, and tertiary support legs 203 of multiple models of telescopic support legs 200 are pre-stored on the shelves 101 of the automated warehouse.

[0130] 2. After receiving the production plan output from the Manufacturing Execution System (MES), the Warehouse Management System (WMS) of the automated warehouse controls the stacker crane 102 to retrieve and transport the various levels of the telescopic outriggers 200 of the corresponding model to the outbound platform 103 according to the production plan; and the first AGV trolley 104 receives the production plan output from the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and then automatically transports the telescopic cylinder 204 of the telescopic outrigger 200 of the corresponding model to the telescopic cylinder input position of the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 according to the production plan.

[0131] 3. The outbound platform 103 is equipped with a sensor that can sense the position of the outriggers. After sensing that each level of outrigger is in place, the sensor sends a signal to the first gantry robot 105.

[0132] 4. After receiving the signal from the sensor on the outgoing platform 103, the first gantry robot 105 moves to the outgoing platform 103 and descends to be above the outgoing leg to identify the outgoing leg model. The first gantry robot 105 can receive the production plan output from the production execution system (MES). If the first gantry robot 105 determines that the outgoing leg model matches the production plan, it will lift the first-level outgoing leg 201, the second-level outgoing leg 202, and the third-level outgoing leg 203 to their respective outgoing leg input positions on the outgoing leg dispensing conveyor 107 located on the left, middle, and right sides of the figure.

[0133] 5. The outrigger assembly conveyors 107 located on the left, middle, and right sides of the diagram respectively transport the primary outrigger 201, secondary outrigger 202, and tertiary outrigger 203 to their respective outrigger accessory assembly positions. Then, the corresponding hydraulic accessories 205, rollers 207, and support rollers 208 are installed manually on the primary outrigger 201, secondary outrigger 202, and tertiary outrigger 203. In addition, the telescopic cylinder assembly conveyor 106 transports the telescopic cylinder 204 to the cylinder accessory assembly position, and then the corresponding hydraulic accessories 205 are installed manually on the telescopic cylinder 204.

[0134] 6. The outrigger dispensing conveyor 107 located on the left side of the diagram conveys the first-stage outrigger 201 to the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b of the outrigger assembly machine 109 located on the left side of the diagram; the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107 located in the middle of the diagram conveys the second-stage outrigger 202 to the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b of the outrigger assembly machine 109 located on the right side of the diagram; the outrigger dispensing conveyor 107 located on the right side of the diagram conveys the third-stage outrigger 203 to the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b of the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108; the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor 106 conveys the telescopic cylinder 204 to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a of the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108.

[0135] 7. Perform the first step of the assembly process: First, the telescopic cylinder assembly machine 108 automatically identifies the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model of the third-stage outrigger 203. If the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model of the third-stage outrigger 203 match the preset model matching relationship, the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a positions the telescopic cylinder 204, and the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b positions the third-stage outrigger 203. Then, the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism 108a moves towards the final-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 108b to fit the telescopic cylinder 204 into the third-stage outrigger 203, thus forming the first rear-stage outrigger assembly. Next, the fixing pin 206 is manually installed to secure the telescopic cylinder 204 and the third-stage outrigger 203, and the pipelines in the hydraulic accessories 205 previously installed on the telescopic cylinder 204 and the third-stage outrigger 203 are connected. This completes the first step of the assembly process.

[0136] 8. After completing the first step of the assembly process, the final stage support leg positioning mechanism 108b pushes the first rear support leg assembly to the workstation near the output end of the support leg disassembly conveyor 107 located on the right side of the figure; then, the second gantry robot 110 lifts the first rear support leg assembly into the rear support leg assembly positioning mechanism 109a of the support leg assembly machine 109 located on the right side of the figure.

[0137] 9. Perform the second assembly process: First, the outrigger assembly machine 109 located on the right side of the diagram automatically identifies the outrigger model of the secondary outrigger 202 and the outrigger model of the tertiary outrigger 203 in the first rear outrigger assembly. If the two outrigger models match the preset model matching relationship, the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a in the outrigger assembly machine 109 respectively position the secondary outrigger 202 and the tertiary outrigger 203 in the first rear outrigger assembly. Then, the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a moves towards the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b to fit the tertiary outrigger 203 in the first rear outrigger assembly into the secondary outrigger 202, thus forming the second rear outrigger assembly. Next, the fixing pin 206 is manually assembled to fix the telescopic cylinder 204 and the secondary outrigger 202, and the pipeline in the hydraulic accessory 205 previously installed on the telescopic cylinder 204 and the secondary outrigger 202 is connected. This completes the second step of the assembly process.

[0138] 10. After the second assembly process is completed, the front-stage support leg positioning mechanism 109b of the support leg assembly machine 109 located on the right side of the figure pushes the second rear-stage support leg assembly to the workstation near the output end of the support leg sub-assembly conveyor 107 located in the middle of the figure; then, the support leg sub-assembly conveyor 107 located in the middle of the figure directly conveys the second rear-stage support leg assembly along the conveying direction to the rear-stage support leg assembly positioning mechanism 109a of the support leg assembly machine 109 located on the left side of the figure.

[0139] 11. Perform the third and final assembly step: First, the outrigger assembly machine 109, located on the left side of the diagram, automatically identifies the outrigger model of the primary outrigger 201 and the outrigger model of the secondary outrigger 202 in the second rear outrigger assembly. If the two outrigger models match a preset model matching relationship, the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a in the outrigger assembly machine 109 respectively position the primary outrigger 201 and the secondary outrigger 202. The secondary outrigger 202 in the rear outrigger assembly is then positioned. The rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism 109a moves towards the front outrigger positioning mechanism 109b to fit the secondary outrigger 202 into the primary outrigger 201, thus assembling the telescopic outrigger 200. Next, the retaining pin 206 is manually installed to secure the telescopic cylinder 204 and the primary outrigger 201, and to connect the piping in the hydraulic accessory 205 previously installed on the telescopic cylinder 204 and the primary outrigger 201. At this point, the third and final assembly step is completed, and the primary outrigger 201, secondary outrigger 202, tertiary outrigger 203, telescopic cylinder 204, hydraulic accessory 205, retaining pin 206, roller 207, and support roller 208 in the telescopic outrigger 200 are all assembled.

[0140] 12. After the third assembly process (i.e. the last assembly process) is completed, the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism 109b in the outrigger assembly machine 109 located on the left side of the figure pushes the assembled telescopic outrigger 200 to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111.

[0141] 13. After the telescopic outrigger 200 is fed into the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111, the telescopic outrigger conveyor 111 outputs the telescopic outrigger 200 along the conveying direction to the second AGV trolley 112. The second AGV trolley 112 receives the telescopic outrigger 200 and transports it to a subsequent workstation outside the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100. At this point, the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 completes one full operation cycle.

[0142] In addition, it can also be used for Figure 4 The production line structure shown can be adjusted to some extent to adapt to different production requirements; for example, it can be adjusted to... Figure 5 or Figure 6 The production line structure shown.

[0143] Specifically, with Figure 4 Compared to the production line structure, Figure 5 The production line does not use a symmetrical arrangement of two sub-assembly lines, but rather a single-sided arrangement. Figure 6 In the production line shown, neither of the two support leg assembly machines 109 can directly input support legs from the support leg dispensing conveyor 107. In this case, the support legs can be transferred to the support leg assembly machine 109 by automated equipment such as gantry robots or AGV trolleys.

[0144] In summary, the telescopic outrigger assembly line 100 of this exemplary embodiment has the following key advantages over the prior art:

[0145] 1. The assembly area of ​​the production line is located close to the automated warehouse. For the first time, the outriggers from the automated warehouse are directly transferred to the assembly area through programmable transfer equipment such as gantry robots. This eliminates the need for buffer zones along the outrigger line in existing technologies, enabling automated short-distance transfer of outriggers from the automated warehouse to the assembly area. Since manual control of forklift transportation is eliminated and the transportation distance is greatly shortened, the automation level and production efficiency of the production line can be greatly improved.

[0146] 2. Both the outriggers and telescopic cylinders can be transferred by automated equipment. During the transfer process, there is no need to manually adjust the posture of the workpiece or to manually lift it, which makes the production line more automated, reduces the intensity of manual labor, reduces the risk of physical injury, and improves the safety of operation.

[0147] 3. The assembly process is automatically performed by the assembly machine, which does not rely on the skills and experience of the operators. Only one operator is needed to assemble the hydraulic accessories 205, fixing pins 206, rollers 207 and support rollers 208. This can reduce the intensity of manual labor, reduce the risk of physical injury, and improve the safety of operation.

[0148] 4. The production line is equipped with error prevention measures for installation, outbound transfer, and assembly processes. Through multiple error prevention measures, incorrect assembly can be effectively avoided.

[0149] The optional embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the specific details in the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of the embodiments of the present invention, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0150] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, the embodiments of the present invention will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0151] Furthermore, various different implementations of the present invention can be combined arbitrarily, as long as they do not violate the spirit of the present invention, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in the present invention.

Claims

1. A telescopic outrigger assembly line, characterized in that, The telescopic outrigger assembly line (100) is configured to sequentially perform a multi-step assembly process to assemble the telescopic cylinder (204) and each stage of the outriggers in the telescopic outrigger (200) from the inside out, and includes: The telescopic cylinder assembly machine (108) includes a telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a) capable of positioning the telescopic cylinder (204) and a final-stage support leg positioning mechanism (108b) capable of positioning the final-stage support leg. The telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a) and the final-stage support leg positioning mechanism (108b) are spaced apart and are configured to move relative to each other so that the telescopic cylinder (204) can be fitted into the final-stage support leg to form a subsequent support leg assembly to participate in the next assembly process. At least one outrigger assembly machine (109), each of the outrigger assembly machines (109) including a rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a) capable of positioning the rear outrigger assembly formed after the previous assembly process, and a front outrigger positioning mechanism (109b) capable of positioning the front outrigger in the telescopic outrigger (200) located before the rear outrigger assembly, the front outrigger positioning mechanism (109b) and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a) being spaced apart and configured to move relative to each other so that the rear outrigger assembly can be fitted into the front outrigger; and The transfer system is configured to transfer the telescopic cylinder (204) and the last-stage outrigger to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a) and the last-stage outrigger positioning mechanism (108b) respectively, and to transfer the rear-stage outrigger assembly and the front-stage outrigger to the rear-stage outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a) and the front-stage outrigger positioning mechanism (109b) of the same outrigger assembly machine (109) respectively; The transfer system includes a telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor (106) and a support leg dispensing conveyor (107). The telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor (106) is provided with a telescopic cylinder input position and a cylinder accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction. The support leg dispensing conveyor (107) is provided with a support leg input position and a support leg accessory assembly position arranged sequentially along the conveying direction. The telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor (106) is configured to transport the telescopic cylinder (204) input from the telescopic cylinder input position to the cylinder accessory assembly position, so that the telescopic cylinder (204) can be equipped with cylinder accessories at the cylinder accessory assembly position before being transferred to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a); the outrigger disassembly conveyor (107) is configured to transport the outrigger input from the outrigger input position to the outrigger accessory assembly position, so that the outrigger can be equipped with outrigger accessories at the outrigger accessory assembly position before being transferred to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism. The transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the rear outrigger assembly formed after the previous assembly process to the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a) that participates in the next assembly process; The telescopic cylinder assembly machine (108) includes a telescopic cylinder model identification device capable of identifying the telescopic cylinder model of the telescopic cylinder (204) in the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a), a second support leg model identification device capable of identifying the support leg model of the final support leg in the final support leg positioning mechanism (108b), and a second processing device storing a preset model matching relationship. The second processing device communicates with the telescopic cylinder model identification device and the second support leg model identification device. The second processing device is configured to determine that the telescopic cylinder model and the support leg model conform to the model matching relationship in order to control the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a) and the final support leg positioning mechanism (108b) to move relative to each other.

2. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring telescopic cylinders (204) equipped with cylinder accessories on the telescopic cylinder dispensing conveyor (106) to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a).

3. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The telescopic cylinder disassembly conveyor (106) is configured to transport telescopic cylinders (204) equipped with cylinder accessories to the telescopic cylinder positioning mechanism (108a).

4. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the telescopic cylinder (204) to the input position of the telescopic cylinder.

5. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring outriggers equipped with outrigger attachments on the outrigger dispensing conveyor (107) to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

6. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a plurality of outrigger dispensing conveyors (107) that correspond one-to-one with each level of outrigger in the telescopic outrigger (200), and at least one of the outrigger dispensing conveyors (107) is configured to convey outriggers equipped with outrigger accessories to the corresponding outrigger positioning mechanism.

7. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least one of the support leg positioning mechanisms that can input support legs equipped with support leg attachments from the support leg dispensing conveyor (107) is configured as a positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism. The positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism is configured to participate in the non-final assembly process. The support leg dispensing conveyor (107) that can convey support legs equipped with support leg attachments to the positioning and assembly post-extraction mechanism is configured as a dispensing and transfer assembly process conveyor. The positioning and assembly ejection mechanism is configured to eject the rear support leg assembly assembled in the current assembly process to the sub-assembly and transfer assembly process conveyor. The sub-assembly and transfer assembly process conveyor is configured to further convey the rear support leg assembly ejected from the positioning and assembly ejection mechanism along the conveying direction to the rear support leg assembly positioning mechanism (109a) that participates in the next assembly process.

8. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The telescopic outrigger assembly line (100) includes an automated warehouse capable of storing and retrieving outriggers of various levels in the telescopic outriggers (200), and the transfer system is configured to transfer outriggers retrieved from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

9. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 8, characterized in that, The telescopic outrigger assembly line (100) includes a production execution system capable of storing production plans for multiple models of telescopic outriggers (200) and selectively outputting multiple production plans. The automated warehouse communicates with the production execution system and is configured to retrieve each level of the telescopic outrigger (200) of the corresponding model according to the production plan.

10. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 9, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a transfer actuator, a first outrigger model identification device, and a first processing device. The first processing device communicates with the first outrigger model identification device and the production execution system. The first outrigger model identification device is configured to identify the outrigger model of the outrigger retrieved from the automated warehouse. The first processing device is configured to determine that the outrigger model conforms to the production plan in order to control the transfer actuator to transfer the outrigger retrieved from the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

11. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first processing device communicates with the automated warehouse. The first processing device is configured to determine that the model of the support leg does not conform to the production plan, generate a recall error signal, and send the recall error signal to the automated warehouse. The automated warehouse is configured to retrieve the incorrectly recalled support leg according to the recall error signal and recall the corresponding support leg again according to the production plan.

12. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 8, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a programmable transfer device capable of transferring the outriggers of the automated warehouse to the outrigger input position.

13. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second processing device is configured to determine that the telescopic cylinder model and the outrigger model do not match the model matching relationship in order to control the telescopic cylinder assembly machine (108) to issue an error matching signal.

14. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outrigger assembly machine (109) includes a third outrigger model identification device capable of identifying the model of the front outrigger in the front outrigger positioning mechanism (109b), a fourth outrigger model identification device capable of identifying the model of the rear outrigger assembly in the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a), and a third processing device storing a preset model matching relationship. The third processing device communicates with the third outrigger model identification device and the fourth outrigger model identification device. The third processing device is configured to determine that the model of the front outrigger and the model of the rear outrigger assembly conform to the model matching relationship in order to control the front outrigger positioning mechanism (109b) and the rear outrigger assembly positioning mechanism (109a) to move relative to each other.

15. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to claim 14, characterized in that, The third processing device is configured to determine that the model of the front outrigger and the model of the rear outrigger assembly do not match the model matching relationship, so as to control the outrigger assembly machine (109) to issue an error matching signal.

16. The telescopic outrigger assembly line according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The transfer system includes a telescopic outrigger conveyor (111), and the front outrigger positioning mechanism (109b) that participates in the final assembly process is connected to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor (111) and is provided with a telescopic outrigger ejection mechanism that can push the assembled telescopic outrigger (200) to the input end of the telescopic outrigger conveyor (111).

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