Method and system for automatic cross-line transfer of an automotive seat

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of automobile seat automatic cross-line transfer method and system.The application relates to seat transfer technical field, and the application includes: cross-line steel platform and maintenance protection platform, one side of cross-line steel platform is provided with linear guide rail shaft, and maintenance protection platform is close to linear guide rail shaft;Linear guide rail shaft is provided with robot, and robot reciprocates along linear guide rail shaft;End of robot is provided with seat gripper.Through the application, the problem that automobile seat cross-line transfer cannot be completed automatically in related art is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of seat transfer technology, and in particular to a method and system for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats. Background Technology

[0002] The automated cross-line transfer system for automotive seats is an important piece of equipment for the diversion and placement of seats on the seat conveyor line. After the seat conveyor line delivers the seats to their designated positions, a robot picks up the seats and moves them to the auxiliary seat conveyor line, thus realizing the function of separating the driver and passenger seats.

[0003] Automobile manufacturing typically employs assembly line production, with each production line responsible for a specific process. However, seats, as a crucial component of a car, require installation and adjustment across different processes. To improve production efficiency and flexibility, cross-line transfer technology has emerged, enabling the transfer of seats from one production line to another, avoiding repetitive installation and adjustment processes. Automobile manufacturing involves multiple processes, each with specific tasks and requirements. Seat installation and adjustment often need to be completed in different processes, such as welding, painting, and assembly. Cross-line transfer technology allows seats to be transferred between different processes, enabling each process to focus on its specific task, thereby improving production efficiency and quality.

[0004] Therefore, the challenge lies in designing a system that includes automatic seat grabbing and placement, automatic vehicle model recognition, small footprint, high work efficiency, accurate positioning, easy maintenance, and avoids causing main line equipment downtime or production stoppage.

[0005] In related technologies, the technical problem of not being able to automatically complete the cross-line transfer of car seats has not yet been effectively solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method and system for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats, so as to solve the problem that the cross-line transfer of automotive seats cannot be completed fully automatically in related technologies.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] A method for automated cross-line transfer of car seats includes affixing identification codes to the seats, obtaining seat information based on the identification codes, wherein the seat information includes the car model and seat type; using lasers to detect whether seat features match the seat information, wherein the lasers include a first laser and a second laser, and the seat features include identical features and dissimilar features, the identical features being the same for both the driver's seat and the passenger seat, and the dissimilar features being the different features for both the driver's seat and the passenger seat; and a robot grasping and moving the seats to a placement position according to a linear guide axis.

[0009] Further settings include: obtaining seat features based on the shape of the seat.

[0010] The configuration is further defined as follows: the first laser detects identical features; the second laser detects dissimilar features.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, another aspect of the present invention employs the following technical solution:

[0012] A system for automatically transferring car seats across lines includes: a steel platform for crossing lines and a maintenance and protection platform. A linear guide shaft is provided on one side of the steel platform for crossing lines, and the maintenance and protection platform is close to the linear guide shaft. A robot is provided on the linear guide shaft and reciprocates along the linear guide shaft. A seat gripper is provided at the end of the robot.

[0013] Further configuration includes: a guardrail and a straight ladder on the other side of the linear guide shaft on the cross-line steel platform; and a guardrail on the other side of the maintenance protection platform near the linear guide shaft.

[0014] Further configuration: The cross-line steel platform and maintenance protection platform are supported on the ground by columns.

[0015] Further configuration: The linear guide shaft also includes a cable chain, which is disposed on the side of the linear guide shaft.

[0016] Further configuration: The seat gripper includes a main frame, on which a backrest pressure plate, a flip-up scoop plate, a seat cushion pressure plate, and a clamping arm are installed.

[0017] Further configuration: the seat cushion pressure plate is fixedly connected to the bottom of the main frame; the backrest pressure plate and the flip-over scoop plate are fixedly connected to the seat cushion pressure plate; the clamping arms are fixedly connected to both sides of the main frame.

[0018] Further configuration: A cylinder is also provided at the back of the main frame, which is used to drive the clamping arm.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial technical effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0020] By affixing identification codes, the cross-line transfer equipment identifies the car seats, and then two sets of lasers perform secondary identification. This prevents errors from manual loading and improper placement of seats during transport. It can also be used for vehicle model identification or secondary vehicle model identification, avoiding inconsistencies between the vehicle model information sent from the upper level and the information received. This invention uses a linear guide axis to control the robot, which grasps the car seats using a seat gripper. The seat gripper improves the stability and accuracy of seat grasping through the action and reaction forces between each component. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is the front view of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 This is the left view of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a top view of the present invention.

[0026] Reference numerals: 1. Cross-line steel platform; 2. Maintenance and protection platform; 3. Column; 4. Guardrail; 5. Straight ladder; 6. Linear guide shaft; 7. Robot; 8. Cable chain; 9. Seat gripper. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0029] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0030] Example

[0031] Reference Figures 1-4 This invention discloses a method and system for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats, which includes:

[0032] A method for automatically transferring car seats across lines includes affixing an identification code to the seat, obtaining seat information based on the identification code, wherein the seat information includes the car model and seat type; using a laser to detect whether seat features match the seat information, wherein the laser includes a first laser and a second laser, and the seat features include identical features and dissimilar features, the identical features being the same for both the driver's seat and the passenger seat, and the dissimilar features being the different features for both the driver's seat and the passenger seat; and a robot 7 grasping and moving the seat to a placement position according to a linear guide axis 6.

[0033] Specifically, identification codes are affixed to the seats at the factory. After the seats are conveyed onto the line, the identification codes are scanned by a system, either manually or automatically. The scanned codes retrieve the corresponding vehicle model information and the types of driver and passenger seats from the upper-level MES (Manufacturing Execution System). After the seats are conveyed and locked into place on the conveyor line, two sets of laser detectors along the line detect the characteristics of the driver and passenger seats. One set of switches detects identical fixed features of the driver and passenger seats, while the other set detects different features, thus achieving secondary alignment and identification. After successful vehicle model confirmation, robot 7, carrying seat grippers 9, grasps the seat. Once the seat is successfully grasped, robot 7 lifts the grasped seat off the seat tray. Then, robot 7 moves the grasped seat laterally from the grasping position to the placement position along the linear guide shaft 6. As robot 7 moves along the linear guide shaft 6 with the seat gripper 9, the maintenance protection platform 2 protects the workpiece from falling onto the vehicle body below and facilitates manual maintenance. Robot 7, carrying the seat gripper 9, places the gripped seat into the placement position and moves it back to its original position via the linear guide shaft 6. This completes the workflow and allows the next work cycle to begin.

[0034] Identification codes are affixed to the seats. After the seat conveyor belt is installed, the identification codes are scanned by a system, either manually or automatically. The scanned codes retrieve the corresponding vehicle model information and driver / passenger seat types from the upper-level MES system. A secondary calibration and verification process is then performed using the line-side sensor detection switch described above. This ensures accurate vehicle model acquisition, robust error prevention, and high efficiency.

[0035] In one alternative embodiment: seat features are obtained based on the shape of the seat.

[0036] In one alternative embodiment: a first laser detects identical features; a second laser detects dissimilar features.

[0037] Specifically, by comparing the posture of the seat digital model with the actual seat workpiece, the differences in the outline shape and posture characteristics of the driver's seat and the passenger seat can be distinguished. Two sets of lasers are used to detect the features of the driver's and passenger seats. One set of lasers is used to detect the same fixed features of the driver's and passenger seats, while the other set of lasers detects the different features of the driver's and passenger seats, thereby automatically determining whether it is the driver's seat or the passenger seat. This can prevent errors caused by manual placement and improper placement of seats during the seat transportation process. It can also be used for vehicle model identification or secondary vehicle model identification to avoid inconsistencies between the vehicle model information sent and received from the higher-level authority.

[0038] It also has a rapid processing function. When the driver and passenger seats are detected to be reversed, the current seat workpiece can be automatically released for quick manual processing without causing line stoppage.

[0039] A system for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats includes: a cross-line steel platform 1 and a maintenance and protection platform 2. A linear guide shaft 6 is provided on one side of the cross-line steel platform 1, and the maintenance and protection platform 2 is close to the linear guide shaft 6. A robot 7 is provided on the linear guide shaft 6, and the robot 7 reciprocates along the linear guide shaft 6. A seat gripper 9 is provided at the end of the robot 7.

[0040] Specifically, the function of the cross-line steel platform 1 is to transfer seats from the upper part position across the main line to the lower part position. The seat conveyor line transports the driver and passenger seats to the seat grabbing position (upper part position). The robot 7, carrying the seat gripper 9, grabs the driver's seat from the left side of the cross-line steel platform 1 and moves it to the right side of the cross-line steel platform 1 via the linear guide shaft 6, placing the driver's seat on the conveyor tray that is already waiting on the seat conveyor auxiliary line. The function of the maintenance protection platform 2 is to protect the vehicles on the main line below from the risk of the seats falling during the transfer, or to facilitate maintenance in case of equipment failure. The maintenance protection platform 2 is accessed manually by climbing the straight ladder 5.

[0041] The function of the linear guide axis 6 is to move the chair, carried by the gripper 9, from the upper part of the workpiece to the lower part of the workpiece. The linear guide axis 6 is used in conjunction with the robot 7, so it is also called the seventh axis of the robot 7. The robot 7 is mounted on the linear guide axis 6, supporting the robot 7 in performing cross-line transport actions and processes. The linear guide axis 6 is driven by a servo motor; the forward and reverse rotation of the servo motor completes the reciprocating linear motion of the linear guide axis 6 from right to left or from left to right.

[0042] In one alternative embodiment: a guardrail 4 and a straight ladder 5 are provided on the other side of the linear guide shaft 6 on the cross-line steel platform 1; a guardrail 4 is provided on the other side of the maintenance protection platform 2 near the linear guide shaft 6.

[0043] Specifically, the function of guardrail 4 is to prevent people from falling during installation, debugging, and maintenance; the function of straight ladder 5 is to facilitate manual debugging and maintenance.

[0044] In one alternative embodiment: the cross-line steel platform 1 and the maintenance and protection platform 2 are supported on the ground by columns 3. The linear guide shaft 6 also includes a cable chain 8, which is disposed on the side of the linear guide shaft 6.

[0045] Specifically, the function of the cable chain 8 is to organize and store equipment cables, preventing power and communication cables from being torn or caught on the linear guide shaft 6 and the robot 7 during movement. The cable chain 8 can house cables, pipes, and other wire harnesses internally, protecting them from damage, wear, or excessive bending by external objects. The cable chain 8 can fix the wire harnesses to the guide rail, maintaining their stable position and orientation during movement and preventing them from moving erratically or becoming tangled. It effectively prevents dust, moisture, oil, and other external substances from entering the wire harnesses, protecting their normal operation and extending their service life. The cable chain 8 reduces exposed wire harnesses, lowering the safety risks of accidental contact and tripping, especially in environments such as mechanical equipment and automated production lines.

[0046] In one optional embodiment: the seat gripper 9 includes a main frame, on which a backrest pressure plate, a flip-up shovel, a seat cushion pressure plate, and a clamping arm are disposed. The seat cushion pressure plate is fixedly connected to the bottom of the main frame; the backrest pressure plate and the flip-up shovel are fixedly connected to the seat cushion pressure plate; the clamping arm is fixedly connected to both sides of the main frame. A cylinder is also disposed at the back of the main frame, the cylinder being used to drive the clamping arm.

[0047] Specifically, the function of the seat gripper 9 is to stably grip and place the seat. The seat gripper 9 is composed of various mechanical components. The backrest pressure plate, flipping shovel, seat cushion pressure plate, and clamping arm are powered by cylinders to complete the reciprocating arc motion of the backrest pressure plate, flipping shovel, seat cushion pressure plate, and clamping arm. When gripping and clamping the seat, the backrest pressure plate, flipping shovel, seat cushion pressure plate, and clamping arm generate action and reaction forces between each component, thereby achieving the stability and accuracy of the seat gripping.

[0048] The working principle and beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0049] By affixing identification codes, the cross-line transfer equipment identifies the car seats, and then two sets of lasers perform secondary identification. This prevents errors from manual loading and improper placement of seats during transport. It can also be used for vehicle model identification or secondary vehicle model identification, avoiding inconsistencies between the vehicle model information sent from the upper level and the information received. This invention uses a linear guide shaft 6 to control the robot 7, which in turn uses a seat gripper 9 to grasp the car seats. The seat gripper 9 improves the stability and accuracy of seat grasping through the action and reaction forces between each component.

[0050] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for automatically transferring car seats across lines, applied to a system for automatically transferring car seats across lines, characterized in that, include: The cross-line steel platform (1) and the maintenance and protection platform (2) are provided. A linear guide shaft (6) is provided on one side of the cross-line steel platform (1), and the maintenance and protection platform (2) is close to the linear guide shaft (6). A robot (7) is mounted on the linear guide shaft (6), and the robot (7) reciprocates along the linear guide shaft (6); The robot (7) is provided with a seat gripper (9) at its end. An identification code is affixed to the seat, and seat information is obtained based on the identification code, wherein the seat information includes vehicle model and seat type; A laser is used to detect whether seat features match the seat information. The laser includes a first laser and a second laser. The seat features include identical features and dissimilar features. The identical features are the same for both the driver's seat and the passenger seat. The dissimilar features are the different features between the driver's seat and the passenger seat. The robot (7) grabs the seat and moves it to the placement position according to the linear guide axis (6); The first laser detects the same feature; The second laser detects the dissimilar features.

2. The method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: A guardrail (4) and a straight ladder (5) are provided on the other side of the linear guide shaft (6) on the cross-line steel platform (1). The maintenance protection platform (2) is provided with a guardrail (4) on the other side near the linear guide shaft (6).

3. The method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The cross-line steel platform (1) and the maintenance and protection platform (2) are supported on the ground by columns (3).

4. The method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The linear guide shaft (6) also includes a cable chain (8), which is disposed on the side of the linear guide shaft (6).

5. The method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The seat gripper (9) includes a main frame, on which a backrest pressure plate, a flip-up shovel plate, a seat cushion pressure plate, and a clamping arm are provided.

6. A method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 5, characterized in that, include: The seat cushion pressure plate is fixedly connected to the bottom of the main frame; The backrest pressure plate and the flip-over shovel plate are fixedly connected to the seat cushion pressure plate; The clamping arms are fixedly connected to both sides of the main frame.

7. A method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 5, characterized in that, include: A cylinder is also provided on the back of the main frame, which is used to drive the clamping arm.

8. A method for automatic cross-line transfer of automotive seats according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The seat features are obtained based on the shape of the seat.

Images