Flexible automatic production method and production structure of cannonball shell

By introducing industrial robots and vision inspection systems and optimizing the production line layout, flexible automated production of shell casings is achieved, solving the problems of low production efficiency and unstable quality in existing technologies, and improving the consistency of production efficiency and quality.

CN117484088BActive Publication Date: 2026-05-29XIANGNONG INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
XIANGNONG INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD
Filing Date
2023-10-30
Publication Date
2026-05-29

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Abstract

The application discloses a kind of cannon shell flexible automation production method and production structure, one of which, a kind of cannon shell flexible automation production method, comprising the following steps: step S1, material is processed, product profile is turned out;Step S2, the product structure is turned out to the product after processing in step S1;Step S3, the product after processing in step S2 is tested;Step S4, the product after testing in step S3 is qualified, and press into bandage in product;Step S5, the product after processing in step S4 is finished machining and visual inspection.The application discloses a kind of cannon shell flexible automation production method and production structure, can realize the flexible automation of cannon shell, reduce the participation of manpower;By introducing industrial robot, visual inspection system and intelligent logistics system to realize the automatic processing and detection conveying function of shell.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automated processing technology, and in particular to a flexible automated production method and structure for artillery shell casings. Background Technology

[0002] The current production methods for artillery shells are limited by technology and site constraints, making it difficult to meet the demand for flexible and efficient production of various specifications. During production, material feeding and measurement are mostly done manually, resulting in high personnel requirements, high labor intensity, low production efficiency, and unstable production quality.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to improve upon traditional production processes by incorporating modern advanced manufacturing technologies. This can be achieved by optimizing production line layout and reorganizing production processes, thereby increasing the production efficiency and quality of shell casings, enhancing the consistency and convenience of automated production, and providing comprehensive coverage throughout the production process. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and provides a flexible automated production method and structure for artillery shells, which can realize flexible automation of artillery shells and reduce human intervention; by introducing industrial robots, vision inspection systems and intelligent logistics systems, the automated processing, inspection and transportation functions of artillery shells are realized.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this invention is: a flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings, comprising the following steps:

[0006] Step S1: Process the material to machine out the product shape;

[0007] Step S2: Machin the product structure of the product after the processing in step S1.

[0008] Step S3: Perform performance testing on the product processed in step S2;

[0009] Step S4: Press a spring strip into the product that has passed the test in step S3;

[0010] Step S5 involves finishing and visual inspection of the product after the processing in step S4.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the process of machining the product shape in step S1 includes the following steps: fine machining the opening of the material, then rough machining the shape of the material, and then fine machining the shape again.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the product structure machining in step S2 includes the following steps: machining the bottom recess of the product, then precision machining the opening thread of the product, and then precision machining the spring strip groove of the product.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the performance test in step S3 includes the following steps: performing a hydrostatic test, magnetic particle inspection, hardness test, and dovetail groove detection on the product after processing in step S2.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the performance testing step in step S3 further includes: performing a surface grinding operation and a knurling operation on the product processed in step S2.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the finishing process of the finished product in step S5 includes one or more of sandblasting, precision turning, cleaning, painting, and oiling, and the visual inspection includes detecting internal defects in the internal cavity of the product and inspecting the external appearance of the external cavity of the product.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, step S5 specifically includes: sandblasting the product after processing in step S4; then visual inspection to detect internal defects in the product's internal cavity; then cleaning and / or painting in the final finishing process; then precision machining in the final finishing process, the precision machining including precision machining of the copper strip on the product and precision machining of the centering strip on the product; then visual inspection to inspect the external appearance of the product's external cavity; and finally cleaning and oiling in the final finishing process.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, step S5 further includes a re-inspection between painting and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity, and a second re-inspection between machining the centering belt on the product and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity.

[0018] The first and second re-inspections include one or more of the following: height measurement, outer diameter measurement, inner diameter measurement, visual inspection of outer surface defects, visual inspection of inner surface defects, and belt size inspection.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a flexible automated production structure for artillery shell casings includes at least one main production line or main assembly line, and a processing equipment group arranged around the main production line or main assembly line. The processing equipment group includes a first turning unit, a laser marking unit, a second turning unit, a hydrostatic testing unit, a magnetic particle inspection unit, a surface grinding unit, a hardness testing unit, a knurling unit, a dovetail groove testing unit, a cartridge belt pressing unit, a sandblasting unit, a first final inspection unit, a cleaning and painting unit, a third turning unit, a second final inspection unit, a cleaning and oiling unit, and a packaging and boxing unit.

[0020] The first turning unit performs step S1, the laser marking unit performs laser marking on the product processed in step S1, and the second turning unit performs step S2; the water pressure testing unit, magnetic particle inspection unit, surface grinding unit, hardness testing unit, knurling unit, and dovetail groove testing unit perform step S3; the spring belt pressing unit performs step S4; and the sandblasting unit, first final inspection unit, cleaning and painting unit, third turning unit, second final inspection unit, cleaning and oiling unit, and packaging and boxing unit perform step S5.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the main production line or main production line adopts a straight line, U-shape, or S-shape.

[0022] This invention addresses the shortcomings of the prior art:

[0023] This invention discloses a flexible automated production method and structure for artillery shells, which can realize flexible automation of artillery shell production and reduce human intervention; by introducing industrial robots, vision inspection systems and intelligent logistics systems, the automated processing, inspection and transportation functions of artillery shells are realized. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the shell casing manufacturing process of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a processing device with a linear layout arranged on one side, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a U-shaped layout according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a processing device with an S-shaped layout and two side-mounted arrangement according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] The components include: 1. First turning unit; 2. Laser marking unit; 3. Second turning unit; 4. Hydraulic pressure testing unit; 5. Magnetic particle inspection unit; 6. Surface grinding unit; and 7. Hardness testing unit.

[0030] 8. Knurling unit; 9. Dovetail groove inspection unit; 10. Spring belt pressing unit; 11. Sandblasting unit; 12. First final inspection unit; 13. Cleaning and painting unit; 14. Third turning unit;

[0031] 15. Second final inspection unit; 16. Cleaning and oiling unit; 17. Packaging and boxing unit; 18. Visual Kanban board; 191. Main production line; 192. Main production line; 20. AGV trolley. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. These drawings are simplified schematic diagrams, which are only used to illustrate the basic structure of the present invention and therefore only show the components relevant to the present invention. Example 1

[0033] like Figures 1-2 As shown, a flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings includes the following steps:

[0034] Step S1: Process the material to machine out the product shape.

[0035] Specifically, the process of machining the product shape in step S1 includes the following steps: fine machining the opening of the material, then rough machining the shape of the material, and then fine machining the shape again.

[0036] Step S2: Machin the product structure of the product after the processing in step S1.

[0037] Specifically, the product structure machining in step S2 includes the following steps: machining the bottom recess of the product, then precision machining the thread at the opening of the product, and then precision machining the spring strip groove of the product.

[0038] Step S3: Perform performance testing on the product after processing in step S2.

[0039] Specifically, the performance testing in step S3 includes the following steps: performing a hydrostatic test, magnetic particle inspection, hardness test, and dovetail groove inspection on the product after processing in step S2. The performance testing steps in step S3 also include: performing a surface grinding operation and / or a knurling operation on the product after processing in step S2.

[0040] Step S4: Press the spring strip into the product that has passed the test in step S3.

[0041] Step S5 involves finishing and visual inspection of the product after the processing in step S4.

[0042] Specifically, the finishing process in step S5 includes one or more of sandblasting, precision turning, cleaning, painting, and oiling. The visual inspection includes detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity and inspecting the appearance of the product's external cavity. Further, step S5 specifically includes: sandblasting the product after step S4; then visual inspection to detect internal defects in the product's internal cavity; then cleaning and / or painting in the finishing process; then precision turning, which includes machining the copper strip and the centering strip on the product; then visual inspection to inspect the appearance of the product's external cavity; and finally cleaning and / or oiling in the finishing process. Furthermore, step S5 includes a re-inspection between painting and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity, and a second re-inspection between machining the centering strip on the product and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity. Example 2

[0043] Based on Example 1, such as Figures 1-2 As shown, a flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings includes the following steps:

[0044] Step S1: Process the material to machine out the product shape.

[0045] Specifically, the process of machining the product shape in step S1 includes the following steps: fine machining the opening of the material, then rough machining the shape of the material, and then fine machining the shape again.

[0046] Step S2: Machin the product structure of the product after the processing in step S1.

[0047] Specifically, the product structure machining in step S2 includes the following steps: machining the bottom recess of the product, then precision machining the thread at the opening of the product, and then precision machining the spring strip groove of the product.

[0048] Step S3: Perform performance testing on the product after processing in step S2.

[0049] Specifically, the performance testing in step S3 includes the following steps: performing a hydrostatic test, magnetic particle inspection, hardness test, and dovetail groove inspection on the product after processing in step S2. The performance testing steps in step S3 also include: performing a surface grinding operation and / or a knurling operation on the product after processing in step S2.

[0050] Step S4: Press the spring strip into the product that has passed the test in step S3.

[0051] Step S5 involves finishing and visual inspection of the product after the processing in step S4.

[0052] Specifically, the finishing process in step S5 includes one or more of sandblasting, precision turning, cleaning, painting, and oiling. The visual inspection includes detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity and inspecting the appearance of the product's external cavity. Further, step S5 specifically includes: sandblasting the product after step S4; then visual inspection to detect internal defects in the product's internal cavity; then cleaning and / or painting in the finishing process; then precision turning, which includes machining the copper strip and the centering strip on the product; then visual inspection to inspect the appearance of the product's external cavity; and finally cleaning and / or oiling in the finishing process. Furthermore, step S5 includes a re-inspection between painting and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity, and a second re-inspection between machining the centering strip on the product and detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity.

[0053] Step S1 is responsible for identifying the product model of the incoming materials, precision machining of the mouth, rough machining of the outer shape, precision machining of the outer shape, and semi-finished product inspection. After visual inspection identifies the model of the incoming materials, the identified materials undergo precision machining of the mouth, rough machining of the outer shape, and precision machining of the outer shape. Then, the processed products undergo semi-finished product inspection through visual inspection, including outer diameter and height checks. Qualified products are then placed into the next production unit. Additionally, laser marking is mainly used to print relevant markings and labels for subsequent traceability and identification. Markings may include information such as the product's cartridge model, production date, and batch number. Marked products are then placed into the next production unit.

[0054] Step S2 is mainly responsible for identifying the model of the incoming material, turning the bottom cavity, finishing the thread at the opening, and finishing the spring band groove.

[0055] Step S3 primarily involves hydrostatic testing, magnetic particle inspection, surface grinding, hardness testing, knurling, and dovetail groove inspection. Hydrostatic testing checks the cartridge case's sealing and pressure-bearing capacity to ensure its sealing performance. Magnetic particle inspection detects cracks and defects on the surface and inside the cartridge case, effectively identifying hidden defects and improving product quality. Surface grinding grinds the cartridge case's surface to ensure flatness and surface quality. Hardness testing measures the cartridge case's hardness and strength to ensure compliance with relevant standards and requirements. Knurling adds patterns to the cartridge case surface to improve its appearance and anti-slip properties. Dovetail groove inspection verifies the accuracy of the dovetail groove's dimensions and shape.

[0056] Step S4 is mainly responsible for pressing the ammunition belt in, which is used to fix the ammunition belt to the cartridge case to facilitate subsequent loading and use.

[0057] Step S5 primarily involves sandblasting, initial re-inspection, precision machining, cleaning, painting, and oiling. Sandblasting is mainly used to treat the surface of the shell casing, thereby improving the surface roughness and adhesion to facilitate subsequent painting and treatment. The initial re-inspection involves a comprehensive inspection and testing of the shell casing, including testing the internal cavity using specific testing equipment to eliminate internal defects and problems, ensuring its quality and performance meet requirements. Cleaning and painting are mainly used for painting the internal cavity of the shell casing. Internal cavity painting improves the smoothness and corrosion resistance of the shell casing's interior, protecting internal components and propellant. Precision machining mainly involves the precision machining of the cartridge belt and centering belt. The second re-inspection involves another comprehensive inspection and testing of the shell casing, including a second inspection of the internal cavity using testing equipment to eliminate internal defects and problems, ensuring its quality and performance meet requirements. Cleaning and oiling are mainly responsible for cleaning and oiling the surface of the shell casing. Surface cleaning and oiling improves the surface quality and rust prevention of the shell casing, thus protecting its quality during storage and transportation.

[0058] Further steps after step S5 include step S6, packing and boxing, which mainly involves classifying, packaging, and sealing the processed cartridge cases for storage and transportation.

[0059] More specifically, sandblasting includes the following process: using compressed air as a power source for a high-speed jet to propel abrasive material at high speed onto the surface of the workpiece, causing physical changes to the workpiece's surface. The sandblasting process parameters are as follows: sandblasting mesh size: approximately 200 mesh; sandblasting gun distance: 30-70mm; sandblasting angle: 50°-70°; sandblasting air pressure: 1.8~3.4 Bar; number of passes: no less than 5. Internal cavity defect detection includes: photographing the internal cavity of the cartridge case with a camera, inspecting the internal cavity through image detection, measuring the internal diameter of the internal cavity using an internal diameter displacement sensor, and checking whether the internal internal diameter corresponds to a preset value. External cavity appearance inspection includes performing appearance image inspection of the cartridge case surface using a line array camera and turntable fixture, measuring the external diameter using an external diameter displacement sensor, and checking whether the external diameter of the cartridge case surface corresponds to a preset value. The hydrostatic test includes testing the product for deformation and leakage in a liquid medium at a test pressure of 16-20 MPa. Magnetic particle testing includes non-destructive testing of ferromagnetic materials by detecting surface or near-surface defects through the accumulation of magnetic powder in the leakage magnetic field near defects. Specifically, workpieces made of magnetic materials such as steel are magnetized, and the leakage magnetic field at defect locations attracts magnetic powder. The distribution of magnetic powder reveals surface and near-surface defects. This method is characterized by its simplicity and intuitive display; the magnetization method is longitudinal; the energizing method is continuous; and the detection result shows no visible magnetic powder accumulation around the cartridge case. Hardness testing includes using a Rockwell hardness tester; the hardness of the cartridge case and its base is tested at 20-30 HRC. Dovetail groove inspection includes testing the dovetail groove, which is used to connect the projectile and the cartridge case. The processing must ensure the accuracy of its dimensions and shape; the dovetail groove has different shapes depending on the cartridge band; the testing instrument uses a displacement sensor probe. Example 3

[0060] A flexible automated production structure for artillery shells is disclosed, employing a production method implemented using the flexible automated production structure described in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. The flexible automated production structure includes: at least one main production line 191 interconnected with a control system, wherein the main production line 191 is in a linear configuration; and a group of processing equipment interconnected with the control system, arranged on one side of the main production line 191. The processing equipment group includes a first turning unit 1, a laser marking unit 2, a second turning unit 3, a hydrostatic testing unit 4, a magnetic particle inspection unit 5, a surface grinding unit 6, a hardness testing unit 7, a knurling unit 8, a dovetail groove detection unit 9, a cartridge belt pressing unit 10, a sandblasting unit 11, and a first final inspection unit 12. The system comprises a cleaning and painting unit 13, a third turning unit 14, a second final inspection unit 15, a cleaning and oiling unit 16, and a packaging and boxing unit 17. The first turning unit 1 performs step S1, the laser marking unit 2 performs laser marking on the product processed in step S1, and the second turning unit 3 performs step S2. The water pressure testing unit 4, the magnetic particle inspection unit 5, the surface grinding unit 6, the hardness testing unit 7, the knurling processing unit 8, and the dovetail groove testing unit 9 perform step S3. The spring belt pressing unit 10 performs step S4. The sandblasting unit 11, the first final inspection unit 12, the cleaning and painting unit 13, the third turning unit 14, the second final inspection unit 15, the cleaning and oiling unit 16, and the packaging and boxing unit 17 perform step S5.

[0061] Specifically, the first turning unit 1 includes an incoming material recognition camera, two CNC lathes, a robot, a semi-finished product buffer fixture, an outer diameter inspection machine, and a height inspection machine. The first turning unit 1 is mainly responsible for identifying the product model of the incoming material, finishing the opening, roughing the outer shape, finishing the outer shape, and inspecting the semi-finished product. After identifying the incoming material model, the incoming material recognition camera assigns lathe and tooling positions based on the material model and the production status of the two CNC lathes, while simultaneously retrieving the processing program. The robot loads the identified material onto the assigned CNC lathes, and the two CNC lathes then perform their respective processing tasks according to their processing time. After processing, the robot's robotic arm picks up the product and sequentially sends it to the outer diameter inspection machine and height inspection machine for outer diameter and height inspection, respectively. Products that pass the inspection are placed into the production line tooling of the main production line 191 and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail the inspection are placed in the buffer station of the main production line 191 for rework or scrapping, depending on the specific inspection results.

[0062] Laser marking unit 2 mainly includes a second incoming material recognition camera, a second robot, a first cleaning machine, a first laser marking machine, and a first buffer fixture. Laser marking unit 2 is primarily used to print relevant markings and labels for subsequent traceability and identification. These markings may include information such as the product's cartridge model, production date, and batch number. The second robot places the incoming material (i.e., the product to be processed) into the first cleaning machine for cleaning. After cleaning, the product is photographed for model recognition and then transferred to the laser marking machine for laser marking based on the recognition results. The marked product is then placed into the production line fixture by the second robot and flows into the next production unit. Products that fail processing are selected for rework or scrapping based on specific inspection results in the first buffer fixture.

[0063] The second turning unit 3 mainly consists of an incoming material recognition camera (3), two CNC lathes (2), a robot (3), an inspection machine, and a buffer fixture (2). The second turning unit 3 is primarily responsible for incoming material identification, bottom turning, thread finishing, spring band groove finishing, and quality inspection. After the incoming material recognition camera (3) identifies the incoming material model, the system allocates lathe and fixture positions based on the material model and the production status of the two CNC lathes (2), while simultaneously retrieving the processing program. The robot (3) loads the identified incoming material into the allocated lathes, and the two CNC lathes (2) undertake their respective processing tasks according to their processing time. After processing, the robot (3) picks up the products and sequentially inspects their dimensions. Qualified products are placed in the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit; unqualified products are selected for rework or scrapping based on the specific inspection results in the buffer fixture (2).

[0064] The water pressure testing unit 4 mainly includes one robot (fourth unit), one cleaning machine (second unit), two water pressure testing machines, and a buffer fixture (third unit). The water pressure testing unit 4 is used to test the sealing and pressure-bearing capacity of the cartridge case, ensuring its sealing performance. Robot (fourth unit) feeds the incoming material into the cleaning machine (second unit) for cleaning. After cleaning, the material is placed into the water pressure testing machines for testing. Products that pass the test are placed into the production line fixture by the robot and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail the test are placed into the buffer fixture (third unit) and transferred to the scrap channel for recycling.

[0065] The magnetic particle inspection unit 5 mainly includes one robot (number 5), two magnetic particle inspection machines, and a buffer fixture (number 4). The magnetic particle inspection unit 5 is primarily used to detect cracks and defects on the surface and inside of the product, i.e., the cartridge case, thereby effectively discovering hidden defects and improving product quality. Robot 5 picks up the incoming material (product) and places it at the magnetic particle inspection machine. Based on the production status of the two magnetic particle inspection machines, the system assigns robot 5 to place the incoming material into the corresponding machine for inspection. Products that pass inspection are placed into the production line fixture by robot 5 and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail inspection are placed into the buffer fixture (number 4) by robot 5 and transferred to the scrap channel for recycling.

[0066] The surface grinding unit 6 mainly includes a model identification camera, a robot, a cleaning machine, a surface grinding machine, a surface inspection machine, and a buffer fixture. The surface grinding unit 6 primarily grinds the surface of the cartridge case to ensure its flatness and surface quality. Robot 6 feeds the incoming material into the cleaning machine for cleaning. The cleaned product then undergoes surface grinding. The finished product undergoes surface quality inspection. Qualified products are placed into the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit. Unqualified products are selected based on the specific inspection results and placed in the buffer fixture 5 for rework or scrapping.

[0067] The hardness testing unit 7 mainly includes a model identification camera (II), a robot (VII), a cleaning machine (IV), two hardness testing machines, and a buffer fixture (VI). The hardness testing unit 7 is primarily used to test the hardness and strength of the cartridge case to ensure it meets relevant standards and requirements. Robot (VII) feeds the incoming material into the cleaning machine (IV) for cleaning. After cleaning, the material is placed into the hardness testing machine for testing. Products that pass the test are placed into the production line fixture by Robot (VII) and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail the test are placed in the scrap channel for recycling.

[0068] The knurling processing unit 8 mainly includes a model recognition camera (3), a robot (8), two knurling machines, and a buffer fixture (7). The knurling processing unit 8 is primarily used to process the surface of cartridge cases with patterns to improve their appearance quality and anti-slip performance. After the model recognition camera (3) identifies the model number on the incoming product, the system allocates the knurling machine and fixture positions based on the incoming material model and the production status of the two knurling machines, while simultaneously retrieving the knurling program. The robot then loads the identified incoming material into the allocated knurling machine, and the two knurling machines undertake their processing tasks according to their respective processing times. After processing, the robot (7) picks up the product and places it into the production line fixture to flow into the next production unit. Defective products are placed in the buffer fixture (7) for rework or scrapping and recycling.

[0069] The dovetail groove inspection unit 9 mainly comprises a model recognition camera (4), a cleaning machine (5), a robot (8), a dovetail groove inspection machine, and a buffer fixture (8). The dovetail groove is the slot used to connect the projectile and the cartridge case in the product. Dovetail grooves have different shapes depending on the cartridge band, resulting in a wide variety. The dovetail groove inspection unit 9 primarily inspects the accuracy of the dovetail groove's machining dimensions and shape. After the workpiece is cleaned, the model recognition camera (4) identifies the incoming material model, and the system retrieves the inspection program based on the model. The robot then loads the identified material into the dovetail groove inspection machine, which performs dimension inspection based on the product model. Products that pass inspection are placed in the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail inspection are selected based on the specific inspection results and either placed in the buffer fixture (8) for rework or scrapping.

[0070] The cartridge belt pressing unit 10 mainly includes a model recognition camera (5), one robot (9), two cartridge belt pressing machines, and a buffer fixture (9). The cartridge belt pressing unit 10 is primarily used to fix the cartridge belt onto the cartridge case for subsequent loading and use. After the model recognition camera (5) identifies the incoming material model, the system presses in the corresponding cartridge belt according to the model. After pressing, the robot (9) picks up the product and places it into the production line fixture to flow into the next production unit. Defective products are placed in the buffer fixture (9) for rework or scrapping.

[0071] The sandblasting unit 11 mainly includes an incoming material identification camera and a sandblasting machine. The sandblasting unit 11 is primarily used for sandblasting the surface of artillery shell casings, thereby improving the surface roughness and adhesion of the casings to facilitate subsequent coating and processing. Incoming materials are photographed and identified by model number along the production line before flowing into the sandblasting machine. The sandblasting machine performs sandblasting treatment on specific parts of the incoming material according to the specific model characteristics. After sandblasting, the finished product flows along the production line to the next production unit.

[0072] The first final inspection unit 12 mainly includes an incoming material identification camera (4), a robot (10), an inner and outer diameter inspection machine, a depth and height inspection machine, an internal cavity inspection machine, and a buffer fixture (10). The first final inspection unit 12 primarily performs comprehensive inspection and testing of the cartridge cases, and uses specific inspection equipment to inspect the internal cavities of the cartridge cases to eliminate internal defects and problems, ensuring that their quality and performance meet requirements. After incoming material identification, the robot (10) picks up the incoming material according to the model and places it at the corresponding workstation for inspection. Products that pass inspection are placed into the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail inspection are selected based on the specific inspection results and either placed in the buffer fixture (10) for rework or recycled through the scrap channel.

[0073] The cleaning and painting unit mainly includes an incoming material identification camera (5), one robot (11), one cleaning machine (6), one internal cavity painting machine, and a buffer fixture (11). The internal cavity painting unit is primarily used for painting the inner cavity of artillery shells. Internal cavity painting improves the smoothness and corrosion resistance of the shell's interior, protecting internal components and propellant. Robot 11 places incoming artillery shells into the cleaning machine (6) for cleaning. After cleaning, the shells are identified by their type, and then placed by Robot 11 into the painting station for internal cavity painting. After painting, the finished product is picked up by Robot 11 and placed into the production line, flowing with it to the next production unit.

[0074] The third turning unit 14 mainly consists of a material receiving camera (6), two CNC lathes (3), a robot (12), an inspection machine, and a buffer fixture (12). The third turning unit 14 is primarily responsible for the precision turning of spring belts and centering belts. After the camera identifies the incoming material model, the system allocates lathe and fixture positions based on the material model and the current production status of the two lathes, while simultaneously retrieving the processing program. The robot (12) loads the identified material into the allocated lathe, and the two CNC lathes (3) undertake processing tasks according to their respective processing times. After processing, the robot (12) picks up the products and sequentially inspects their dimensions. Products that pass inspection are placed in the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit; products that fail inspection are placed in the buffer fixture (12) for rework or scrapping based on the specific inspection results.

[0075] The second final inspection unit 15 mainly includes an incoming material identification camera (7), a robot (13), an inner and outer diameter measuring machine, a depth and height measuring machine, an internal cavity measuring machine, and a buffer fixture (13). The second final inspection unit 15 primarily conducts a comprehensive inspection and testing of the cartridge cases again, and uses specific testing equipment to re-inspect the internal cavity of the cartridge cases to eliminate internal defects and problems, ensuring that their quality and performance meet requirements. After incoming material identification, the robot (13) picks up the incoming material according to the model and places it at the corresponding workstation for inspection. Products that pass inspection are placed into the production line fixture and flow into the next production unit. Products that fail inspection are selected based on the specific inspection results and either placed into the buffer fixture (13) for rework or into the scrap channel for recycling.

[0076] The cleaning and oiling unit 16 mainly includes an incoming material identification camera (8), a robot (14), a cleaning machine (7), two oiling machines, and a buffer fixture (14). The cleaning and oiling unit 16 is primarily responsible for cleaning and oiling the surface of the shell casings. Surface cleaning and oiling can improve the surface quality and rust prevention performance of the shell casings, thereby protecting their quality during storage and transportation. After cleaning, the incoming material is picked up by the robot (14) and placed on the oiling machine for oiling. Once the shell casings are finished, they are then picked up by the robot and placed into the next production unit on the production line.

[0077] The packaging and boxing unit 17 mainly includes an incoming material recognition camera (nine), a material unloading robot (fifteen), a lifting ring installation robot, a gantry palletizing robot, and a packaging machine. The packaging and boxing unit 17 primarily classifies, packages, and seals the processed shell casings for storage and transportation. After the incoming material is recognized, the material unloading robot picks it up and places it on the palletizing robot's fixture. The lifting ring installation robot installs the corresponding lifting rings according to the specific model. The shell casings with the lifting rings installed are then placed into corresponding packaging boxes by the gantry robot. After the packaging boxes are filled with shell casings, the boxes flow into the packaging station for sealing and are then transported away by specialized handling equipment.

[0078] More specifically, such as Figure 2As shown, the production line layout structure of this embodiment is such that the main production line 191 runs through the line in a straight line, and each production unit is distributed on the same side of the main production line 191. Each production process is clear at a glance, the production site is neat and beautiful, and it is convenient for the supply and transportation of raw materials, semi-finished products and finished products. It is also more conducive to the debugging and maintenance of the production line. It should be noted that the layout method requires a large production site, especially occupying a long space. Example 4

[0079] A flexible automated production structure for artillery shell casings, based on Embodiment 1, replaces the main production line 191 with a main production line 192, which is U-shaped and equipped with AGV trolleys 20 for material transport; and a processing equipment group arranged around the main production line 191 or the main production line 192. The processing equipment group includes, as described in Embodiment 2, a first turning unit 1, a laser marking unit 2, a second turning unit 3, a hydrostatic testing unit 4, a magnetic particle inspection unit 5, a surface grinding unit 6, a hardness testing unit 7, a knurling unit 8, a dovetail groove detection unit 9, a cartridge belt pressing unit 10, a sandblasting unit 11, a first final inspection unit 12, a cleaning and painting unit 13, a third turning unit 14, a second final inspection unit 15, a cleaning and oiling unit 16, and a packaging and boxing unit 17.

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, the layout structure of this embodiment is that the overall production line is U-shaped, C-shaped, or S-shaped, with each production unit distributed on the outside of the production line and the logistics system concentrated on the inside of the production line. The advantage of this layout is that the logistics system is more compact and concentrated, which helps to reduce the time wasted in the transportation and handling of products. At the same time, this layout can be adjusted appropriately according to the site conditions to maximize the adaptation to site requirements. Example 5

[0081] A flexible automated production structure for artillery shell casings, based on Embodiment 2, replaces the main production line 191 with a linear main production line 191; and includes processing equipment groups arranged on both sides of the main production line 191. The processing equipment groups include, as described in Embodiment 2, a first turning unit 1, a laser marking unit 2, a second turning unit 3, a hydrostatic testing unit 4, a magnetic particle inspection unit 5, a surface grinding unit 6, a hardness testing unit 7, a knurling unit 8, a dovetail groove detection unit 9, a cartridge belt pressing unit 10, a sandblasting unit 11, a first final inspection unit 12, a cleaning and painting unit 13, a third turning unit 14, a second final inspection unit 15, and a cleaning unit. The oiling unit 16 and the packaging unit 17 are used to implement step S1. The first turning unit 1 performs step S1, and the laser marking unit 2 performs laser marking on the product processed in step S1. The second turning unit 3 performs step S2. The water pressure testing unit 4, the magnetic particle inspection unit 5, the surface grinding unit 6, the hardness testing unit 7, the knurling processing unit 8, and the dovetail groove detection unit 9 perform step S3. The spring belt pressing unit 10 performs step S4. The sandblasting unit 11, the first final inspection unit 12, the cleaning and painting unit 13, the third turning unit 14, the second final inspection unit 15, the cleaning and oiling unit 16, and the packaging unit 17 perform step S5.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment also provides a layout structure in which the main production line 191 is in a straight line and the production units are alternately distributed on both sides of the production line. The advantage of this layout is that it saves space, reduces the total length of the logistics production line, and the production or testing of products in the production units on both sides of the line reduces the flow rate of the main production line 192, making the overall production line rhythm more stable. It should be noted that the rework will be transported to the production line entrance by special equipment and put back into production.

[0083] Working principle:

[0084] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this invention employs robots to handle products, significantly improving production efficiency and enhancing the flexibility of the production line. It can even handle various products without changing the fixtures. Furthermore, the use of robots makes low-cost production line upgrades possible. This invention utilizes machine vision for material identification and quality inspection, ensuring high efficiency, stability, and minimal errors. An intelligent logistics system efficiently and intelligently processes raw materials, semi-finished products, defective products, scrapped products, and qualified finished products, reducing semi-finished product inventory while ensuring precise material supply, thereby lowering production costs. This invention uses automated specialized machines to replace manual inspection, stabilizing inspection quality while improving inspection efficiency.

[0085] This invention describes a flexible automated production line technology for artillery shell casings. This production line technology combines industrial robots, machine vision, and intelligent logistics systems. Through reasonable layout and optimized process sequence, it improves both production efficiency and production quality, and lays a foundation for reducing production costs through intelligent management.

[0086] The present invention also describes a layout method for a flexible automated production line for artillery shells. The layout method is based on the overall idea of ​​improving efficiency, reducing costs and improving quality, and fully considers the actual conditions of the implementation site. The implementation methods are listed, which are mainly for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0087] Based on the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and through the above description, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the inventive concept. The technical scope of this invention is not limited to the contents of the specification, but must be determined according to the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A flexible automated production structure for artillery shell casings, characterized in that, It includes at least one main production line and a group of processing equipment arranged around the main production line. The processing equipment group includes a first turning unit, a laser marking unit, a second turning unit, a hydrostatic testing unit, a magnetic particle inspection unit, a surface grinding unit, a hardness testing unit, a knurling unit, a dovetail groove testing unit, a spring belt pressing unit, a sandblasting unit, a first final inspection unit, a cleaning and painting unit, a third turning unit, a second final inspection unit, a cleaning and oiling unit, and a packaging and boxing unit. The flexible automated production method for artillery shells, realized by a flexible automated production structure, includes the following steps: Step S1: Process the material to machine out the product shape; Step S2: Machin the product structure of the product after the processing in step S1. Step S3: Perform performance testing on the product processed in step S2; Step S4: Press a spring strip into the product that has passed the test in step S3; Step S5: Perform finishing and visual inspection on the product after step S4. The first turning unit performs step S1, the laser marking unit performs laser marking on the product processed in step S1, and the second turning unit performs step S2; the water pressure testing unit, magnetic particle inspection unit, surface grinding unit, hardness testing unit, knurling unit, and dovetail groove testing unit perform step S3; the spring belt pressing unit performs step S4; and the sandblasting unit, first final inspection unit, cleaning and painting unit, third turning unit, second final inspection unit, cleaning and oiling unit, and packaging and boxing unit perform step S5. The first turning unit includes an incoming material recognition camera, a CNC lathe, a robot, a semi-finished product buffer fixture, an outer diameter measuring machine, and a height measuring machine.

2. The flexible automated production structure for artillery shell casings according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main production line adopts a straight line, U-shape, or S-shape.

3. A flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings, implemented using the flexible automated production structure of artillery shell casings as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that: Step S1 involves machining the product's shape, which includes the following steps: fine machining the opening of the material, then rough machining the shape of the material, and then fine machining the shape again.

4. The flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings according to claim 3, characterized in that: Step S2 involves machining the product structure, which includes the following steps: machining the product's base, then precision machining the product's opening thread, and finally precision machining the product's spring band groove.

5. The flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings according to claim 4, characterized in that: The performance testing in step S3 includes the following steps: performing a hydrostatic test, magnetic particle inspection, hardness test, and dovetail groove inspection on the product after processing in step S2.

6. The method for flexible automated production of artillery shell casings according to claim 5, characterized in that: The performance testing step in step S3 also includes: performing a surface grinding operation and a knurling operation on the product processed in step S2.

7. The method for flexible automated production of artillery shell casings according to claim 6, characterized in that: The finishing process in step S5 includes one or more of sandblasting, precision turning, cleaning, painting, and oiling. The visual inspection includes detecting internal defects in the product's internal cavity and inspecting the appearance of the product's external cavity.

8. The flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings according to claim 7, characterized in that: Step S5 specifically includes: sandblasting the product after step S4 in the finishing process; then visual inspection to detect defects in the inner cavity of the product; then cleaning and / or painting in the finishing process; then precision machining in the finishing process, which includes precision machining of the copper strip on the product and precision machining of the centering strip on the product; then visual inspection to inspect the appearance of the outer cavity of the product; and finally cleaning and oiling in the finishing process.

9. A flexible automated production method for artillery shell casings according to claim 8, characterized in that: Step S5 also includes a re-inspection between painting and detecting internal defects in the product's cavity, and a second re-inspection between machining the centering belt on the product and detecting internal defects in the product's cavity. The first and second re-inspections include one or more of the following: height measurement, outer diameter measurement, inner diameter measurement, visual inspection of outer surface defects, visual inspection of inner surface defects, and belt size inspection.