Apparatus and method for automated processing of edges of sunroof mounting holes for vehicles

Abstract

The present application relates to an apparatus and method for automated processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole of a vehicle. An apparatus for automated processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole of a vehicle, the apparatus being removably clamped to the roof and moving around the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, characterized in that the apparatus comprises: a clamping module comprising a first clamping body and a second clamping body and a spring between the first clamping body and the second clamping body, the first clamping body and the second clamping body being biased towards a clamping state by the spring; a walking module comprising a driving source, a driving wheel rotationally driven by the driving source, and a driven wheel, the driving wheel and the driven wheel being configured to engage the roof; and a processing module interface configured to receive a processing module for processing the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. According to the present application, automated processing of the edge of the sunroof mounting hole of the vehicle is advantageously achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus and method for the automated processing of the edges of sunroof mounting holes for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] On the vehicle production line, a specific process is required to install the sunroof onto the vehicle's sunroof mounting holes. This process involves various treatments of the edges of the sunroof mounting holes. Currently, these treatments are performed by workers entering the vehicle body. For example, workers need to clean the edges of the sunroof mounting holes with a cleaning agent to remove impurities and paint spots, and after the cleaning agent has evaporated and dried, an adhesive needs to be applied.

[0003] However, for workers, the confined workspace and the need to bend over and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods are not ergonomic. Furthermore, each type of treatment requires a separate operation for a given skylight mounting hole, resulting in long working hours, heavy workload, and low efficiency. From a production perspective, manual processing is inherently subjective; for example, incomplete cleaning or uneven application of adhesive can lead to quality problems and safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for equipment and methods for the automated processing of the edges of sunroof mounting holes in vehicles.

[0005] According to some aspects of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for automating the processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole in a vehicle, the apparatus being removably clamped to the roof and movable about the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, the apparatus comprising: a clamping module including a first clamping body and a second clamping body and a spring located between the first clamping body and the second clamping body, the first clamping body and the second clamping body being biased toward a clamping state by the spring; a walking module including a drive source preferably including an electric motor, a drive wheel and a driven wheel that are rotatably driven by the drive source, the drive wheel and the driven wheel being configured to engage with the roof; a processing module interface configured to receive a processing module for processing the edge of the sunroof mounting hole; and a processing module releasably received by the processing module interface.

[0006] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first clamping body and the second clamping body respectively include a first handle and a second handle for gripping, and a first extension and a second extension for clamping relative to the roof. When not clamped to the roof, the device is in a standby state, and due to the action of the spring, the first clamping body and the second clamping body are biased toward the clamping state, thus the first extension and the second extension move closer to each other. However, it should be noted that although there is the effect of the spring, the first extension and the second extension can have a minimum non-closed or non-contact interval. This advantageously ensures that the device is not easily tilted when clamped to the roof.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first extension includes a vertical portion adjacent to the first handle and a protruding portion extending from the lower side of the vertical portion opposite to the first handle; the second extension includes a vertical portion adjacent to the second handle and a protruding portion extending from the lower side of the vertical portion opposite to the second handle. Preferably, the protruding portion of the first extension is substantially perpendicular to the vertical portion of the first extension, in other words, the protruding portion of the first extension extends substantially horizontally. Preferably, the protruding portion of the second extension forms an obtuse angle with the vertical portion of the second extension, in other words, the protruding portion of the second extension extends downward relative to the horizontal plane. When the device is clamped to the roof, the facing surface of the vertical portion of the second extension is aligned substantially parallel to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole at intervals.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a drive source is mounted to a protruding portion of a second extension of a second clamping body; when the device is clamped to the roof, the drive wheel is tangentially engaged in a recess in the roof, opposite to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, generally in the direction of travel; a driven wheel is mounted to a protruding portion of a first extension of a first clamping body; when the device is clamped to the roof, the driven wheel is tangentially engaged in a recess in the roof, generally in the direction of travel, on the outer surface of the roof.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the invention, the protruding portion of the second extension and the vertical portion of the second extension are pivotally connected relative to each other in a lockable manner.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the invention, the device includes a second driven wheel mounted to a protruding portion of a first extension of a first clamping body; when the device is clamped to a vehicle roof, the second driven wheel is tangentially engaged with the outer surface of the vehicle roof generally in the direction of travel. Preferably, the protruding portion of the first extension of the first clamping body includes a fork, to which the driven wheel and the second driven wheel are respectively mounted to a first fork and a second fork of the fork.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the processing module interface is directly formed into a part of the device. Preferably, the processing module interface is formed in the vertical portion of the second extension of the second clamping body, and the processing module interface includes: a receiving hole having a first opening located on a back surface opposite to the facing surface of the vertical portion of the second extension and a second opening located on the facing surface, and extending through the vertical portion of the second extension; and a fixed arrangement for retaining the processing module. When the device is clamped to the roof, the second opening generally points, preferably vertically, towards the edge of the sunroof mounting hole.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the invention, the receiving aperture includes a limiting structure to prevent the processing module from completely exiting through the second aperture when it is inserted into the receiving aperture from the first aperture. Preferably, the limiting structure includes a tapered cross-section of the receiving aperture from the first aperture to the second aperture. Preferably, the limiting structure includes a stepped portion, which is preferably formed at the second aperture. For example, this causes at most a portion of the processing module to protrude beyond the second aperture.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the fixing arrangement includes a set screw hole on the side of the vertical portion of the second extension opposite to the facing and back faces for receiving a receiving hole for receiving a fixing set screw, and / or a screw hole on the back face of the vertical portion of the second extension for receiving a fixing screw.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the processing module interface further includes a protective cover located above the second opening on the facing surface of the vertical portion of the second extension.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention, the processing module is configured to interact with the edge of the sunroof mounting hole in contact or without contact. Preferably, the processing module is configured to provide processing fluid to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. The processing module includes a processing fluid source and an application end coupled to the processing fluid source. In some cases, at least a portion of the received application end of the processing module will extend through a second orifice. When the device is clamped to the roof, the application end abuts against the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, and moves relative to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole in contact with it as the device moves. Alternatively, when the processing module does not contact the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, the processing fluid can be applied toward the edge of the sunroof mounting hole by means of jetting and / or blowing. When the device is clamped to the roof, the application end is spaced apart from the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, and moves relative to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole without contact with it as the device moves. For example, the processing module may include a cleaning module, a drying module, and an adhesive application module. In other embodiments, other processing modules may be provided according to the needs of edge treatment of the sunroof mounting hole. For example, but not exclusively, the processing module may include a polishing module, including an application end of a polishing head that interacts with the edge of the sunroof mounting hole in contact; the processing module may include a spraying module, including an application end of a spray nozzle that points towards but does not contact the edge of the sunroof mounting hole.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, the device is configured to perform only one process in a single operation. For example, the device performs either cleaning or applying an adhesive to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. Specifically, the device includes only one processing module interface for receiving processing modules. For example, the processing module is a cleaning module, and the processing fluid includes a cleaning agent; or, the processing module is an adhesive application module, and the processing fluid includes an adhesive.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the device is configured to perform multiple processes in a single operation. For example, the device sequentially performs cleaning and applying adhesive to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. Specifically, the device includes at least two processing module interfaces for receiving processing modules, which are arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the travel direction, and their configurations may be identical or different. For example, the processing modules received therein are a cleaning module and an adhesive application module, which are also arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the travel direction.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the device includes and / or receives the drying module, which is located between and spaced apart from the cleaning module and the adhesive coating module.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the device includes a power supply and a control module. Preferably, the control module includes one or more of the following: a start module (such as a button), a setting module (such as a keypad, an interactive interface), a stroke counting module (such as using an encoder coupled to an electric motor), and / or a time counting module (such as using a timer), thereby enabling automated operation of the device.

[0020] According to other aspects of the present invention, a method is provided for automating the processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole in a vehicle using the device according to the invention. The method includes: clamping the device to the roof at the sunroof mounting hole; starting the device; having the device automatically travel along the edge of the sunroof mounting hole while a processing module processes the edge of the sunroof mounting hole; stopping the device; and removing the device from the sunroof mounting hole.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the processing module is received or replaced by the processing module interface of the device before installation and / or after removal.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, installation and removal are performed by pinching and releasing the first and second handles of the device.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, the installation is such that the vertical portion of the second extension of the device is substantially aligned with the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, the drive wheel of the device engages in a recess in the roof opposite to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, and the driven wheel of the device engages on the outer surface of the roof.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, the device travels at least one revolution along the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, while the processing module interacts with the edge of the sunroof mounting hole in contact or without contact. Preferably, the device completes either cleaning or applying adhesive in a single travel. Preferably, the device completes both cleaning and applying adhesive in a single travel. Preferably, the device dries between cleaning and applying adhesive during a single travel.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the device records time and / or travel distance through a control module. Based on the time and / or travel distance, the device automatically determines that at least one cycle has been completed, thereby automatically stopping and / or providing the operator with a completion instruction to remove the item for the next operation.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention, at least the automated processing of the equipment is carried out while the vehicle is traveling along the production line. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 A top view of an exemplary vehicle on the production line is shown.

[0028] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A partial perspective view of an apparatus for automated processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole in a vehicle, according to some embodiments of the present invention, is shown. The apparatus is clamped to the roof of the vehicle, and its processing module interface receives a processing module for processing the edge of the sunroof mounting hole.

[0029] Figure 4 A partial perspective view of an alternative construction of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 5 A partial front view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 6 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the processing module interface of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 7 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the processing module interface of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 8 A partial front view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 9 A partial perspective view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0035] Figure 10 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0036] Figure 11 A partial front view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments depicted and described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. It will also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in any manner and / or in any combination to provide many other embodiments.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this disclosure have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used in the foregoing description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0039] For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar modules, units and / or parts in the figures, and the parts in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0040] Now for reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 A top view of an exemplary vehicle on a production line is shown. The exemplary vehicle generally includes a body, which includes a roof 1, on which a sunroof mounting hole 2 is provided at a suitable location. The sunroof mounting hole 2 has an edge 3, which extends along the inner periphery of the sunroof mounting hole 2 and has a generally vertical outer surface. In some examples, the generally vertical outer surface of the edge 3 has a height of about 5 mm.

[0041] Existing vehicle manufacturing processes involve various treatments of the edges of sunroof mounting holes. For example, these treatments include cleaning the edges 2 of the sunroof mounting hole 1 with a cleaning agent while workers are inside the vehicle body to remove impurities and paint spots, and then applying an adhesive after the cleaning agent has evaporated and dried. However, this can lead to undesirable results for both workers and production. This application provides an apparatus and method for automating the treatment of the edges of sunroof mounting holes in vehicles.

[0042] Now for reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A partial perspective view of an apparatus 100 for automated processing of the edge 3 of a sunroof mounting hole 2 for a vehicle, according to some embodiments of the present invention, is shown. The apparatus is clamped to the roof 1, and its processing module interface 130 receives a processing module 140 for processing the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2.

[0043] According to the illustrated embodiment, device 100 includes a clamping module 110, a walking module 120, a processing module interface 130, and a processing module 140. As shown, the clamping module 110 includes a first clamping body 111 and a second clamping body 112, and a spring 113 located between the first clamping body 111 and the second clamping body 112. The first clamping body 111 and the second clamping body 112 are biased toward a clamping state by the spring 113. The walking module 120 includes a drive source 121, preferably including an electric motor, a drive wheel 122 driven by the drive source 121, and a driven wheel 123. When device 100 is clamped to the roof 1, the drive wheel 122 and the driven wheel 123 engage with the roof 1. The processing module interface 130 has received a processing module 140 for processing the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2.

[0044] The following describes an exemplary construction of each module.

[0045] Regarding the clamping module 110, the first clamping body 111 includes a first handle 1111 and a first extension 1112, wherein the first handle 1111 is used for gripping, and the first extension 1112 is used for clamping relative to the roof 1. Similarly, the second clamping body 112 also includes a second handle 1121 for gripping and a second extension 1122 for clamping relative to the roof 1.

[0046] As shown in the figure, the first extension 1112 includes a vertical portion 1112.V adjacent to the first handle 1111 and a protruding portion 1112.P extending from the lower side of the vertical portion 1112.V opposite to the first handle 1111. Similarly, the second extension 1122 includes a vertical portion 1122.V adjacent to the second handle 1121 and a protruding portion 1122.P extending from the lower side of the vertical portion 1122.V opposite to the second handle 1121. Preferably, each vertical portion and protruding portion is plate-shaped. Preferably, the first extension 1112 and the second extension 1122 can be L-shaped. It should be noted that although the first extension 1112 and the second extension 1122 are described herein as being L-shaped, this does not mean that the two sides of the L-shape are perpendicular; in fact, this application covers cases where the two sides of the L-shape form acute or obtuse angles. Preferably, the protruding portion 1112.P of the first extension 1112 is substantially perpendicular to the vertical portion 1112.V of the first extension 1112, that is, it extends substantially horizontally. Preferably, the protruding portion 1122.P of the second extension 1122 forms an obtuse angle with the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122, that is, it extends downward relative to the horizontal surface. In particular, when the device 100 is clamped to the roof 1, the facing surface 1122.VF of the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122 is aligned substantially parallel to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 at intervals. In other words, the facing surface 1122.VF is the surface facing the edge 3.

[0047] Regarding the walking module 120, the drive source 121 is mounted to the protrusion 1122.P of the second extension 1122 of the second clamping body 112, such that the plane of rotation of the drive wheel 122, which is driven by the drive source 121, extends approximately parallel to the protrusion 1122.P, that is, it forms substantially the same angle with respect to the vertical portion 1122.V, consistent with the protrusion 1122.P. Correspondingly, the driven wheel 123 is mounted to the protrusion 1112.P of the first extension 1112 of the first clamping body 111.

[0048] As shown in the figure, when the device 100 is clamped onto the roof 1, the drive wheel 122 is engaged tangentially in the direction of travel into a recess in the roof opposite to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. That is, the recess is defined by the inner surface 12 of the roof 1 and the inner surface of the edge 3. Correspondingly, the driven wheel 123 is engaged tangentially in the direction of travel onto the outer surface 11 of the roof 1.

[0049] Now for reference Figure 4 , Figure 4 A partial perspective view of an alternative configuration of a portion of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the invention is shown. Specifically, it shows the protruding portion 1122.P of the second extension 1122 and the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122 pivotally connected relative to each other. This configuration provides adjustability of the angle between the two portions, and further enables adjustability of the engagement angle between the drive wheel 122, which is rotatably fixed relative to the protruding portion 1122.P, and the recess, thereby facilitating adaptation to different operating conditions.

[0050] In an alternative configuration of the device (not shown), device 100 further includes a second driven wheel constructed similarly to driven wheel 123, that is, it is also mounted to the protrusion 1112.P of the first extension 1112 of the first clamping body 111. Preferably, the protrusion 1112.P of the first extension 1112 of the first clamping body 111 includes a fork, to which driven wheel 123 and the second driven wheel are respectively mounted to the first fork and the second fork of the fork. This configuration gives the walking module 120 at least three-point positioning characteristics for the drive wheel 122 and the driven wheel 123 and the second driven wheel, thereby improving the stability of device 100.

[0051] Regarding the processing module interface 130, in the illustrated embodiment it is directly formed into a part of the device 100, specifically in the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122 of the second clamping body 112.

[0052] Now for reference Figure 5 , Figure 5 A partial front view of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Specifically, it shows the vertical portion 1122V of the second extension 1122 of the second clamping body 112 and the processing module interface 130 formed thereon. According to the illustrated embodiment, the processing module interface 130 includes a receiving hole 131 and a fixed arrangement for holding the processing module 140. Figure 5 (Not visible in the image). As shown, the receiving hole 131 has a first opening 1311 located at the back surface 1122.VR of the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122, opposite to the facing surface 1122.VF. Figure 5The second opening 1312 (not visible in the center) is located at the facing surface 1122.VF and extends through the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122. When the device 100 is clamped to the roof 1, the second opening 1312 generally points, preferably vertically, to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2.

[0053] Now for reference Figure 6 , Figure 6 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a processing module interface 130 of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Specifically, some embodiments of the processing module interface 130 are illustrated. Similarly, the processing module interface 130 also includes a receiving hole 131 and a fixed arrangement for holding the processing module 140. As shown, the receiving hole 131, extending through a vertical portion 1122.V of a second extension 1122, preferably includes a limiting structure in addition to a first aperture 1311 and a second aperture 1312 to prevent the processing module 140 from completely exiting through the second aperture 1312 when it is inserted into the receiving hole 131 from the first aperture 1311. In the illustrated embodiment, this limiting structure includes a tapered cross section 131.C of the receiving hole 131 from the first aperture 1311 to the second aperture 1312. For example, a tapered cone or pyramid shape may be formed. As shown in the figure, the fixed arrangement of the processing module interface 130 includes a set screw hole 132 on the side 1122.VS of the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122, which faces the receiving hole 131 for receiving a set screw (not shown). For example, the set screw hole 132 may be opened into the receiving hole 131 at approximately the middle position along the receiving hole 131.

[0054] Now for reference Figure 7 , Figure 7A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a processing module interface 130 of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Specifically, some embodiments of the processing module interface 130 are illustrated. Similarly, the processing module interface 130 also includes a receiving hole 131 and a fixed arrangement for holding the processing module 140, and the receiving hole 131 also includes a limiting structure. In the illustrated embodiment, this limiting structure includes a step portion 131.S formed at a second opening 1312. For example, this step portion 131.S may define an inner hole shape different from the cross-sectional shape of the receiving hole 131. Of course, the step portion 131.S is not limited to being provided at the second opening 1312, for example, it may also be provided at any suitable location along the receiving hole 131. As shown, the fixed arrangement of the processing module interface 130 includes a screw hole 133 on the back surface 1122.VF of the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122 for receiving a fixing screw (not shown). For example, the screw hole 132 may be provided generally around the first opening 1311.

[0055] Now for reference Figure 8 , Figure 8 A partial front view of a portion of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. In particular, some embodiments of a processing module interface 130 are shown. Similarly, the processing module interface 130 also includes a receiving hole 131 and a fixed arrangement for holding the processing module 140, and the receiving hole 131 also includes a limiting structure, which also includes a stepped portion 131.S formed at the second opening 1312. Of course, the receiving hole 131 of the processing module interface 130 may also include other limiting structures or may not include a limiting structure. As shown, the processing module interface 130 also includes a protective cover 133 located above the second opening 1312 on the facing surface 1122.VF of the vertical portion 1122.V of the second extension 1122. For example, the protective cover 133 may at least partially surround the second opening 1312, particularly the area outside the second opening 1312, thereby protecting any protruding portions of the processing module.

[0056] It should be noted that the above description of the specific combinations of features of the processing module interface 130 (such as limiting structure, fixed arrangement, protective cover, etc.) describes various embodiments of the processing module interface 130, but this application is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will understand that the features of the processing module interface 130 in each embodiment can be used alone or in any combination.

[0057] Regarding processing module 140, it may be included in device 100, and / or releasably received by processing module interface 130. As described above, Figure 1 and Figure 2The illustrated embodiment depicts the receiving state of the processing module 140. According to the illustrated embodiment, the processing module 140 interacts with the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 in contact. Specifically, the processing module 140 provides processing fluid to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. As shown, the processing module 140 includes a processing fluid source (e.g., a storage container) 141 and an application end (e.g., an application head capable of being wetted by the processing fluid through capillary action) 142 coupled to the processing fluid source. Preferably, the application head may have a certain degree of flexibility. When the device 100 is clamped to the roof 1, the application end 142 abuts against the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, and moves relative to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 in contact as the device 100 moves.

[0058] Now for reference Figure 9 , Figure 9 A partial perspective view of a portion of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the invention is shown. Specifically, it shows the reception of a processing module 140 by a processing module interface 130. The processing module 140 is inserted into a receiving hole 131 from a first hole 1311 (not shown) with its applying end 142 oriented toward a second hole 1312, such that at least a portion of the applying end 142 of the received processing module 140 protrudes through the second hole 1312, and at least a portion of the processing fluid source 141 may extend from the first hole 1311 outside the receiving hole 131 in the opposite direction to the insertion direction. The processing module 140 is secured by a fixing arrangement (e.g., set screws and set screw holes 132). Preferably, the insertion depth of the processing module 140 (and thus the maximum protrusion depth of the applying end 142) is limited due to the presence of a limiting structure (e.g., a step 131.S as shown). Preferably, the rotational orientation of the processing module 140 can also be substantially determined due to the substantially matching non-circular shape (e.g., rectangular) between the applying end 142 and the inner hole defined by the stepped portion 131.S. Alternatively or additionally, the substantially determined rotational orientation of the processing module 140 can also be achieved due to the substantially matching non-circular shape (e.g., rectangular) between the processing fluid source 141 and the cross-section 131.C defined by the receiving hole 131. Preferably, the protective cover 133 at least partially surrounds the protruding portion of the applying end 142.

[0059] According to the foregoing embodiments, device 100 performs only one process in a single operation. In other words, device 100 includes only one processing module interface 130 for receiving processing module 140. Considering the processing technology of the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, in some cases, device 100 can be a cleaning device, and processing module 140 can be a cleaning module including a cleaning agent, thereby achieving automated cleaning of the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2; in other cases, device 100 can be an adhesive application device, and processing module 140 can be an adhesive application module including an adhesive, thereby achieving automated adhesive application of the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. Of course, the same device can also receive either the cleaning module or the adhesive application module as needed. Naturally, the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 may also be subjected to other single processes by device 100.

[0060] Now for reference Figure 10 , Figure 10 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a device 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Specifically, it shows the reception of a processing module interface 130 for a processing module 140 that interacts with the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 without contact. Specifically, the processing module 140 also provides processing fluid to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. Here, the exemplary processing module 140 is a drying module, which includes a processing fluid source (e.g., a fan) 141 and an application end (e.g., an air outlet configured to point towards but not contact the edge of the sunroof mounting hole) 142 coupled to the processing fluid source. When the device 100 is clamped to the roof 1, the application end 142 is spaced apart from the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, and moves relative to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 without contact as the device 100 moves. The processing module 140 is secured from the first aperture 1311 by a fixing arrangement (e.g., screws and screw holes 133) with the application end 142 oriented toward the second aperture 1312, and at least a portion of the processing fluid source 141 may extend from the first aperture 1311 outside the receiving aperture 131 in the opposite direction to the insertion direction. Preferably, in a manner similar to that described above, the insertion depth of the processing module 140 (if any) and / or the rotational orientation of the processing module 140 may be limited. It should be noted that although the term "receive" is used herein, it does not mean that a portion of the processing module 140 must be located within the receiving aperture 131. In other words, the processing module 140 needs to be able to be positioned relative to the processing module interface 130 and to interact with the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. For example, in an embodiment not shown, the outlet of the exemplary drying module is aligned with the receiving aperture only at the first aperture without extending therein.

[0061] Now for reference Figure 11 , Figure 11A partial front view of a portion of a device according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 11 In this embodiment, device 100 performs multiple processes in a single operation. In other words, device 100 includes multiple processing module interfaces 130 for receiving processing modules 140. Considering the processing technology of the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, it is known that in some cases, the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 needs to be cleaned and coated with adhesive sequentially. Therefore, device 100 sequentially performs cleaning and adhesive coating on the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. As shown in the figure, device 100 includes at least two (three shown) processing module interfaces 130 for receiving processing modules 140, which are arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the travel direction. It can be seen that the structure of the processing module interface 130 located in the middle is different from that located on both sides, while the structures of the processing module interfaces 130 located on both sides are the same. Of course, this application is not limited to this, as long as the processing module interface 130 is adapted to the received processing module 140. Along the travel direction, the processing module 140 received by each processing module interface 130 may be, for example, a cleaning module, a drying module, and an adhesive coating module. These processing modules 140 are also arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the travel direction. It should be noted that the drying module, located between and spaced apart from the cleaning module and the adhesive application module, is optional, but it can promote the evaporation of the cleaning agent, helping to improve the operating efficiency of the equipment. In other words, the drying module can be incorporated into the equipment as needed (including the corresponding processing module interface), or even, the equipment can use only the cleaning module and the adhesive application module (including the corresponding processing module interfaces) without a drying module.

[0062] To automate the operation of device 100, device 100 includes a power supply and a control module. The control module may include a start module, such as one or more buttons for operating the start and / or stop of device 100. The control module may include a setting module, such as one or more buttons and / or an interactive interface for acquiring user input. The control module may include a stroke counting module, such as utilizing an encoder 121.E coupled to an electric motor (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 The control module can determine the travel distance. It may include a timing module, such as using a timer to determine the time.

[0063] An exemplary method of operating the device 100 is described below.

[0064] As described above, the device 100 can automatically process the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 of the vehicle.

[0065] Preferably, the device 100 is clamped to the roof 1 at the sunroof mounting hole 2; the device 100 is started; the device 100 automatically moves along the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, while the processing module 140 processes the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2; the device 100 is stopped; and the device 100 is removed from the sunroof mounting hole 2.

[0066] Preferably, the processing module 140 is received or replaced by the processing module interface 130 of the device 100 before installation and / or after removal. This step may be performed, for example, when the device 100 has not yet been connected to the processing module 140, or when the processing module 140 is exhausted / malfunctioning, etc.

[0067] Preferably, installation and removal are performed by pinching and releasing the first handle 1111 and the second handle 1121 of the device 100. By pinching and releasing the first handle 1111 and the second handle 1121, the first extension 1112 and the second extension 1122 can be moved away from and closer to each other respectively, thereby facilitating the clamping and removal of the device 100 relative to the roof 1 at the sunroof mounting hole 2.

[0068] Preferably, the installation is such that the vertical portion 1122V of the second extension 1122 of the device 100 is substantially aligned with the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, the drive wheel 122 of the device 100 engages in a recess in the roof 1 opposite to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, and the driven wheel 123 of the device 100 engages on the outer surface 11 of the roof 1. In this way, the device 100 is stably and movably clamped relative to the roof 1.

[0069] Preferably, for example, after the device 100 is started, the device 100 travels at least one revolution along the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, while the processing module 140 interacts with the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2, either in contact or without contact. Thus, as the device 100 travels, automated processing is achieved through the interaction between the processing module 140 and the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2. As described above, the processing preferably involves one or both of cleaning and applying an adhesive to the edge 3 of the sunroof mounting hole 2 of the vehicle, which is accomplished by the device 100 in a single travel. Additionally, the device 100 can also perform drying between cleaning and applying the adhesive during a single travel.

[0070] Preferably, the device 100 records time and / or travel distance via a control module. Based on the time and / or travel distance, the device 100 automatically determines that at least one cycle has been completed, thereby automatically stopping and / or providing a completion instruction to the operator for removal for the next operation. In this way, the operator does not need to constantly monitor the operation of the device 100, but can perform further operations in response to the instructions of the device 100, increasing user-friendliness.

[0071] Preferably, at least the automated processing of equipment 100 takes place while the vehicle is traveling along the production line. This allows the operation of equipment 100 to be well integrated with activities on the production line. For example, an operator clamps equipment 100 onto the roof 1 of a vehicle at a station and runs it. The vehicle travels along the production line while equipment 100 performs automated processing and automatically stops. The next operator removes equipment 100 at the next station and performs further processing on the vehicle. The removed equipment 100 can, for example, be returned to the previous station for reuse.

[0072] The equipment and method of the present invention for automating the processing of the edges of sunroof mounting holes for vehicles reduces manual labor, solves ergonomic problems, improves work efficiency, and automates the one-time completion of cleaning and / or applying adhesive to the edges of sunroof mounting holes, achieving good quality. The equipment can move along the production line, further saving time, and is adaptable to various sunroof sizes, making it versatile and suitable for mixed production lines.

[0073] The foregoing description is intended not to be construed as limiting the invention. While exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. The invention is defined by the appended claims, including their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for automating the processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole in a vehicle, the apparatus being removably clamped to the roof and movable around the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, characterized in that, The device includes: A clamping module includes a first clamping body and a second clamping body, and a spring located between the first clamping body and the second clamping body, wherein the first clamping body and the second clamping body are biased toward a clamping state by the spring; The walking module includes a drive source, a drive wheel driven by the drive source, and a driven wheel, the drive wheel and the driven wheel being configured to engage with the roof; The processing module interface includes a receiving hole configured to receive a processing module for processing the edge of the sunroof mounting hole; A processing module that can be releasably received by the processing module interface; When the device is clamped to the roof, the receiving hole is positioned between the drive wheel and the driven wheel and points toward the edge of the sunroof mounting hole. The drive wheel is tangentially engaged in the travel direction in a recess of the roof opposite to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, and the driven wheel is tangentially engaged in the travel direction on the outer surface of the roof.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first clamping body and the second clamping body each include a first handle and a second handle for gripping, and a first extension and a second extension for clamping relative to the roof.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first extension includes a vertical portion adjacent to the first handle and a protruding portion extending from the lower side of the vertical portion opposite to the first handle; the second extension includes a vertical portion adjacent to the second handle and a protruding portion extending from the lower side of the vertical portion opposite to the second handle.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive source is mounted to the protruding portion of the second extension of the second clamping body, and the driven wheel is mounted to the protruding portion of the first extension of the first clamping body.

5. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protruding portion of the second extension and the vertical portion of the second extension are pivotally connected relative to each other in a lockable manner.

6. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The device includes a second driven wheel mounted to a protruding portion of a first extension of a first clamping body. The protruding portion of the first extension of the first clamping body includes a fork, and the driven wheel and the second driven wheel are respectively mounted to the first fork and the second fork of the fork.

7. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The processing module interface is formed in the vertical portion of the second extension of the second clamping body. The receiving hole has a first opening on the opposite side of the facing side located on the vertical portion of the second extension, and a second opening on the facing side, and extends through the vertical portion of the second extension; and The processing module interface also includes a means to maintain the fixed arrangement of the processing module.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The receiving hole includes a limiting structure to prevent the processing module from completely exiting through the second hole when it is inserted into the receiving hole from the first hole.

9. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The processing module interface also includes a protective cover located above the second opening on the facing surface of the vertical portion of the second extension.

10. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processing module includes a processing fluid source and an application end coupled to the processing fluid source.

11. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is configured to perform only one type of processing in a single operation. The device includes only one processing module interface for receiving processing modules, wherein the processing module is a cleaning module and the processing fluid includes a cleaning agent, or the processing module is an adhesive application module and the processing fluid includes an adhesive.

12. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is configured to perform multiple processes in a single operation. The device includes at least two processing module interfaces for receiving processing modules, which are arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the walking direction. The processing modules are cleaning modules and adhesive application modules, which are also arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the walking direction and received therein.

13. The device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The equipment includes and / or receives a drying module, which is located between and spaced apart from the cleaning module and the adhesive application module.

14. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The equipment includes a power supply and a control module, wherein the control module includes one or more of the following: a start-up module, a setting module, a travel counting module, and / or a time counting module, thereby enabling automated operation of the equipment.

15. A method for automating the processing of the edge of a sunroof mounting hole in a vehicle using the equipment according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, The method includes: Clamp the device onto the roof at the sunroof mounting hole; Start the device; The equipment automatically moves along the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, while the processing module processes the edge of the sunroof mounting hole at the same time. Stop the equipment; Remove the device from the mounting hole in the car window.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Before installation and / or after removal, the processing module is received or replaced by the device's processing module interface.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Installation and removal are performed by pinching and releasing the first and second handles of the device.

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The installation aligns the vertical portion of the second extension of the device with the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, the drive wheel of the device engages in a recess in the roof opposite to the edge of the sunroof mounting hole, and the driven wheel of the device engages on the outer surface of the roof.

19. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The equipment travels at least one revolution along the edge of the skylight mounting hole, while the processing module interacts with the edge of the skylight mounting hole, either in contact or not.

20. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The device records time and / or travel distance through the control module. Based on the time and / or travel distance, the device automatically determines that at least one cycle has been completed, thereby automatically stopping and / or providing the operator with a completion instruction to remove the item for the next operation.

21. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, At least the automated processing of the equipment takes place while the vehicles are moving along the production line.

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