Assembly production line, positioning device and assembly method for gas meter housing and interface

Abstract

The present invention discloses an assembly production line, a positioning device, and an assembly method for a gas meter housing and an interface. By introducing four core technologies, namely, a modular positioning device, a diversified press-fitting machine, an efficient feeding system, and an integrated control system, the assembly process of the gas meter is significantly optimized. Among them, the innovative design of the positioning device supports multi-directional precise positioning, ensuring the stability of the assembly; the various press-fitting machines are widely applicable, meeting the press-fitting requirements of products of different specifications; the efficient collaboration of the feeding and conveying systems greatly improves the material loading efficiency; and the integrated control system realizes monitoring and coordination of the entire process, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the processing actions. Overall, this production line not only improves the assembly efficiency and production rhythm of gas meters, but also reduces labor costs and potential human errors, bringing significant economic and quality advantages to the field of gas meter manufacturing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of automated assembly technology, specifically to an assembly production line for a gas meter housing and an interface, as well as the application of key technologies such as a positioning device, a pressing device, a feeding and conveying system, aiming to improve the degree of automation and production efficiency in the gas meter manufacturing process and ensure the stability and reliability of product quality. Background Art

[0002] See attached Figure 1 , usually the assembly of the gas meter housing and the interface includes the following parts: upper housing 01, joint 02 (external part) and ring 03 (internal part). The upper housing has an inlet end and an outlet end, both of which have flanges 011 formed by stretching downwards. The gas enters through the inlet of the housing and flows directly into the inner part of the movement assembly.

[0003] The joint 02 is the part connected to the external gas pipeline. During the connection process, the outer wall of the joint 02 is usually slightly larger than the inner wall of the ring 03, so that the upper shell 01 can be squeezed in the middle during assembly to form an interference fit. This design can ensure a tight connection between the joint and the shell, effectively preventing gas leakage.

[0004] The ring 03 is an inner part, which is sleeved on the inner wall of the shell combination. When the connector 02 is pressed into the upper shell 01, the ring 03 will be squeezed, further strengthening the connection between the connector 02 and the upper shell 01. This design simplifies the installation process and also reduces the requirements for workers' skills.

[0005] The traditional assembly method, as disclosed in the authorization announcement number CN 105424123 B, provides a diaphragm gas meter movement front and rear flag assembly device, including a base, a press-fitting mechanism and a sliding mechanism, and has convenient and fast operation characteristics, but there are still problems of many assembly steps and low efficiency during the press-fitting assembly process. In particular, since the joint 02 is located above the upper shell and the ring 03 is located below the upper shell, how to effectively press the joint 02 and the ring 03 into the upper shell 01 at the same time during the press-fitting process has become a challenge.

[0006] Therefore, although the existing technology has made certain progress, a new assembly method is still needed to further optimize the assembly process and improve assembly efficiency to meet the growing production needs. Summary of the invention

[0007] In view of this, the present invention provides an assembly production line for gas meter housings and interfaces. The present invention realizes high efficiency, precision and cost reduction of the gas meter housing and interface assembly production line through modular positioning devices, parallel operation modes, precise pressing equipment and feeding systems, and integrated control.

[0008] The technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention is implemented as follows: a gas meter housing and interface assembly production line, including a press-fitting workbench arranged on the production line, a mobile device arranged on the press-fitting workbench, a press-fitting device installed on the mobile device, a feeding and conveying system connected to the press-fitting workbench, and an integrated control system for controlling the entire production line; wherein:

[0009] 1) There are multiple sets of modular positioning devices on the press-fitting workbench. When the press-fitting equipment is press-fitting the workpiece on one set of positioning devices, the feeding and conveying system can load the other set or multiple sets of positioning devices, thereby realizing the assembly line operation of the assembly process;

[0010] 2) The moving device can move precisely in the three directions of X, Y and Z, and carry the pressing equipment to perform the pressing operation on each positioning device, while driving the pushing component installed on the driving mounting plate below it to push the ring into place.

[0011] Preferably, the press-fitting equipment adopts a variety of press-fitting machines such as hydraulic press, screw press and servo press, etc. The advantage is that different types of press-fitting machines can be carried out, providing a variety of press-fitting options and enhancing the adaptability and flexibility of the production line.

[0012] Preferably, the feeding and conveying system comprises an upper housing conveyor belt, a diversified feeding device and an automatic ring feeding assembly. Advantageously, the feeding and conveying system comprises a variety of components, realizing a comprehensive and continuous feeding function, ensuring the continuous operation of the production line.

[0013] Preferably, the positioning devices are arranged in at least two rows in the X-axis direction and can be arranged in multiple rows in the Y-axis direction. The advantage is that the positioning devices are arranged in rows, which optimizes space utilization and increases the number of workpieces that can be processed in a single cycle.

[0014] Preferably, the upwardly extending portion of the mobile device is used to carry the press-fitting device, and the downwardly extending portion is fixedly mounted with the drive mounting plate. The mobile device is advantageously capable of multi-directional movement, which improves the flexibility and accuracy of the device and increases the working range.

[0015] Preferably, the drive mounting plate is used to carry and mount a push assembly corresponding to each positioning device arranged in the X-axis direction. The advantage is that multiple push assemblies are mounted on the drive mounting plate, which realizes synchronous operation and improves assembly speed and efficiency.

[0016] The present invention also provides a positioning device, which is applied to an assembly production line: comprising a positioning module arranged on a press-fitting workbench, a press-fitting station arranged on the upper surface of the positioning module, a positioning assembly hole arranged in the press-fitting station and coaxial with the corresponding interface of the upper shell, an elastic positioning column installed in the positioning assembly hole, and an automatic ring feeding assembly connected to one side of the press-fitting station, a feeding channel of the automatic ring feeding assembly arranged on one side of each press-fitting station, and a drawing mechanism arranged between the feeding channel and the press-fitting station and having elasticity in the vertical direction. The advantage is that the design of the positioning device enables the station to stably receive and fix the ring, thereby improving the assembly accuracy.

[0017] Preferably, the outer surface shape and size of the positioning module matches or is slightly smaller than the inner space of the upper shell. Advantageously, the outer surface shape of the positioning device matches the upper shell, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the device.

[0018] Preferably, the press-fitting station is in the form of a horizontal plane, and its plane size exceeds the maximum diameter of the corresponding ring. The benefit is that it ensures that the horizontal surface of the press-fitting station exceeds the ring diameter to adapt to rings of different sizes.

[0019] Preferably, the positioning module is raised upward to leave space, and the space is used as an extension of the feeding channel. The benefit is that the space is provided as an extension of the feeding channel, which facilitates the feeding action of the ring.

[0020] Preferably, the stripping mechanism comprises an actuator which is rotatable and also elastic in the vertical direction. Advantageously, the stripping mechanism is designed to be elastic and rotatable, which helps to reduce the risk of the ring being impacted and damaged during the feeding process.

[0021] Preferably, the toggle portion of the actuator is designed to be arc-shaped, and a cover plate is fixedly arranged on its upward side. The arc-shaped design and the cover plate protection enhance the durability and stability of the draw mechanism.

[0022] The present invention also provides an automated precise assembly method for a gas meter housing, an interface and a ring, comprising the following steps:

[0023] Step 1: Use a specially designed positioning device to fix and support the upper shell, the positioning device includes a positioning module whose shape matches the internal space of the upper shell, a press-fitting station opened on the upper surface of the positioning module, and an elastic positioning column arranged in the press-fitting station;

[0024] Step 2: The rings are transported to the assembly line through the automatic ring feeding assembly, and the rings are pushed to the pressing station with the help of the pushing assembly and the pulling mechanism;

[0025] Step 3: Automatically load the upper shell onto the positioning device;

[0026] Step 4: Automatically load the joint to the designated position;

[0027] Step 5: The mobile device drives the pressing device to perform parallel pressing operations on different positioning devices, and at the same time drives the pushing component to push the ring into place;

[0028] Step 6: The integrated control system monitors the press parameters in real time and performs quality control;

[0029] Step 7: After completion, pick up and place the assembled product and conduct quality inspection.

[0030] The benefit is that the overall approach enables automated and precise assembly, significantly improving production efficiency and product quality.

[0031] Preferably, the diameter of the press-fitting station of the positioning device is larger than the maximum diameter of the ring; the automatic ring feeding assembly includes a feeding channel and a stripping mechanism, and the stripping mechanism is arranged between the feeding channel and the press-fitting station; the stripping mechanism includes a rotatable and vertically elastic actuator, a cover plate and a protective elastic belt. The benefit is that the design of the press-fitting station and the automatic feeding assembly simplifies the ring feeding process, reduces assembly time and improves production continuity.

[0032] Preferably, in step 5, when the press-fitting device is press-fitting one group of positioning devices, the automatic ring feeding assembly is feeding another group or multiple groups of positioning devices. The benefit is that the parallel operation mechanism further optimizes the production process, reduces waiting time, and improves overall work efficiency.

[0033] Preferably, the method further comprises a material replenishment opening provided on the press-fitting workbench for replenishing the rings. The benefit lies in that the provision of the material replenishment opening facilitates material replenishment, avoids downtime due to lack of material, and improves the continuous operation capability of the production line.

[0034] In summary, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0035] 1. Improve production efficiency: Through modular positioning devices and the ability of multiple groups to work simultaneously, the production line can realize the assembly process of streamlined operation, thereby significantly improving assembly efficiency. At the same time, the optimized design of the feeding system and press-fitting equipment can quickly and accurately supply and press-fit workpieces, further improving production efficiency.

[0036] 2. Reduce production costs: Due to the improvement of production efficiency, more assembly work can be completed per unit time, thereby reducing the production cost of each product. In addition, the optimized equipment design and parallel operation mode also help to reduce equipment waiting time and human resource waste, further reducing production costs.

[0037] 3. Improve product quality: The integrated control system monitors the press-fitting parameters in real time, performs logical control and coordination on the entire press-fitting process, ensures the accuracy and consistency of the press-fitting action, and guarantees product quality from a system level. At the same time, the precise coordination of the positioning device and the press-fitting equipment can also ensure the accuracy and stability of the assembly.

[0038] 4. Improve the flexibility and applicability of the production line: The production line can use a variety of press-fitting machines, which can be flexibly selected according to the assembly requirements of different products to meet various press-fitting needs. This flexibility enables the production line to adapt to products of different models and specifications, improving the applicability and flexibility of the production line.

[0039] 5. Parallel operation: Through clever design, the production line realizes parallel operation of press-fitting and loading, avoiding the errors and efficiency losses caused by waiting for loading in traditional assembly lines. This parallel operation mode greatly improves the working efficiency of the entire production line.

[0040] 6. Optimize spatial layout: The positioning module design in the positioning device takes into account the effective use of space. By raising the positioning module, space is provided for the installation of other auxiliary facilities such as pipelines and sensors, which is conducive to a more compact and reasonable overall layout of the production line.

[0041] 7. Improve feeding efficiency: By increasing the number of rings that can be fed at the same time, the number of rings that can be supplied per unit time increases, thereby reducing the time that the press equipment needs to wait for feeding, and the production rhythm will also be accelerated accordingly.

[0042] 8. Realize automated operation: The production line realizes a high degree of automated operation through integrated control systems and automated equipment, reduces dependence on manual operation, and improves production efficiency and stability.

[0043] In summary, this gas meter housing and interface assembly production line achieves efficient, high-quality, and low-cost assembly operations through innovative design and optimized process flow, which is of great significance for improving production efficiency and reducing production costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Figure 1 It is an exploded view of the upper shell and interface and other components of the gas meter in the prior art, wherein a part of the upper shell is cut away;

[0045] Figure 2 is a stereogram of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2-1 yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of point A in the middle mainly shows the positional relationship between the draw mechanism and other components in the assembly;

[0047] Figure 3 It is a left side view of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Stereoscopic image of the middle AA section;

[0049] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of a mobile device;

[0050] Figure 6 It is the logic block diagram of the assembly method;

[0051] Figure 7 is a stereogram of the positioning module;

[0052] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the actuator.

[0053] Markings in the figure: upper shell 01, flange 011, joint 02, ring 03, press-fitting workbench 10, positioning device 20, positioning module 21, press-fitting station 22, positioning assembly hole 23, elastic positioning column 24, press-fitting equipment 30, feeding and conveying system 40, automatic ring feeding assembly 50, feeding channel 51, drawing mechanism 52, actuator 521, cover plate 522, protective elastic belt 523, integrated control system 60, moving device 80, drive mounting plate 81, pushing assembly 82, center positioning sleeve 821, pushing member 822, feeding opening 90.

[0054] Specific technical solutions

[0055] Example 1

[0056] See attached Figure 2-5 A gas meter housing and interface assembly production line, wherein a plurality of modularly designed positioning devices 20 are arranged on a press-fitting workbench 10. When a press-fitting device 30 presses a workpiece on one set of positioning devices 20, other loading mechanisms can load another set or multiple sets of positioning devices 20, thereby realizing the assembly process in a streamlined manner, improving assembly efficiency and reducing production costs. Specifically, it includes:

[0057] 1. Pressing equipment 30: It uses a variety of press machines such as hydraulic presses, screw presses and servo presses, which can be flexibly selected according to the assembly requirements of different products to meet various press needs and improve the applicability and flexibility of the production line.

[0058] 2. Pressing workbench 10: It can accurately support and position the parts to be pressed, providing a good foundation for the accurate pressing operation of the pressing equipment 30, thereby ensuring the assembly quality.

[0059] 3. Feeding and conveying system 40: It includes upper shell conveyor belt, diversified feeding device and automatic ring feeding assembly 50, which realizes efficient and accurate feeding of upper shell 01, joint 02 and ring 03, and provides hardware support for assembly line operation.

[0060] 4. Integrated control system 60: Real-time monitoring of press-fitting parameters, logical control and coordination of the entire press-fitting process, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the press-fitting action, and guaranteeing product quality from a system level.

[0061] 5. Positioning device 20: It is arranged in at least two rows in the X-axis direction and can be arranged in multiple rows in the Y-axis direction. This arrangement enables each fixture positioning device to independently and accurately position and fix the upper shell 01, thereby ensuring the stability and accuracy of the press-fitting operation, which is one of the keys to the efficient operation of the entire production line.

[0062] 6. Moving device 80: This device can move precisely in the three directions of X, Y, and Z. The upwardly extending portion of the moving device 80 is used to carry the press-fitting device 30 so that each positioning device 20 can be accurately press-fitted; the downwardly extending portion is fixed with a drive mounting plate 81. This plate is used to carry and install a push assembly 82 corresponding to each positioning device 20 arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0063] The pushing assembly 82 is a part of the automatic ring feeding assembly 50, and its function is to drive the ring to rise during the movement of the pressing device 30 to achieve synchronous pushing work.

[0064] The arrangement of the upper and lower parts of the moving device 80 enables the pressing device 30 and the pushing component 82 to work synchronously. When the pressing device 30 is pressing at a certain station, the corresponding pushing component 82 can push the ring into place.

[0065] The key is that once the pressing device 30 completes the pressing operation at the current station, it can immediately move to the next station without waiting for the subsequent loading of the rings, because the rings have been delivered to the position in advance.

[0066] This carefully designed "business process parallelism" greatly saves the waiting time of the press-fitting device 30, enabling it to operate efficiently and continuously, thereby greatly improving the work efficiency of the entire production line. At the same time, it also avoids the errors that may be caused by waiting for material loading and ensures the accuracy of assembly.

[0067] In general, this design idea of ​​cleverly combining the pressing and loading steps in parallel perfectly solves the dilemma of low efficiency and proneness to errors in traditional assembly lines, and can be said to be an effective innovation.

[0068] The positioning module 21 in the positioning device 20 has an outer surface whose shape and size match the internal space of the upper shell 01 or are slightly smaller so as to be installed in the upper shell. A cavity is left inside the positioning module 21 for installing the components of the automatic ring feeding assembly 50, see Figure 7 .

[0069] The upper surface of the positioning module 21 is provided with two press-fitting stations 22, corresponding to the positions of the two interfaces in the upper shell. The press-fitting station 22 is in the shape of a horizontal plane, and its plane size exceeds the maximum diameter of the corresponding ring 03, so that the ring 03 can be completely within the range of the press-fitting station. At the same time, the height of the press-fitting station is level with the upper surface of the positioning module, ensuring that the ring 03 and the upper shell 01 are completely fitted after press-fitting.

[0070] Each press-fitting station 22 is provided with a positioning assembly hole 23 coaxial with the corresponding interface of the upper shell, which is used to locate the center position of the ring 03. An elastic positioning column 24 is installed in the positioning assembly hole 23, and its outer size matches the inner hole diameter of the ring 03.

[0071] In some embodiments, the positioning module 21 is raised to a certain height as a whole, see Figure 5 , leaving a certain space below it. This part of space is used as an extension of the feeding channel 51, and the purpose is to increase the number of the rings 03 that can be fed at the same time.

[0072] Such design optimization can further improve the efficiency of the feeding system and lay the foundation for achieving more efficient assembly line operations. By increasing the number of rings that can be fed at the same time, the number of rings that can be supplied per unit time will increase, thereby reducing the time that the press equipment needs to wait for feeding, and the production cycle will also be accelerated accordingly.

[0073] At the same time, after the positioning module 21 is lifted as a whole, space is provided below for the installation of other auxiliary facilities such as pipelines, sensors, etc., which is conducive to a more compact and reasonable overall layout of the production line.

[0074] In some embodiments, a feeding channel 51 of an automatic ring feeding assembly 50 is provided on one side of each press-fitting station 22. The upper opening of the feeding channel 51 is a horizontal surface that is at the same height and fits the press-fitting station 22, so as to facilitate the transmission of the rings.

[0075] The automatic ring feeding assembly 50 also includes a stripping mechanism 52 which is arranged between the feeding channel 51 and the press-fitting station 22 and has elasticity in the vertical (Z-axis) direction. The stripping mechanism 52 is used to strip the ring 03 pushed from the feeding channel 51 to the press-fitting station 22.

[0076] In order to cooperate with the function of the stripping mechanism 52, the design of the elastic positioning column 24 needs to be optimized: its extension height is controlled to be flush with the upper surface of the inner hole after the ring 03 is placed in the press-fitting station 22. At the same time, a chamfer or bevel is set on the side of the elastic positioning column 24 close to the center of the positioning module 21, and the starting height of the chamfer / bevel on the column circumference is lower than the upper surface of the positioning assembly hole 73.

[0077] The purpose of this design is that when the ring 03 is loaded, its outer peripheral wall will first contact the chamfer / slant surface of the elastic positioning column 24, thereby squeezing the column downward to shrink and drop it, making room for the ring 03 to land correctly in the press-fitting station 22. After the ring 03 is completely in place, the elastic positioning column 24 will reset and rise due to its own elasticity. At this time, the outer side of the column is tightly fitted with the inner wall of the ring 03 to achieve precise coaxial positioning.

[0078] It is worth noting that the component that pushes the ring 03 will reset and retract after completing the transfer action, which will not affect the positioning of the ring 03 that has been in place.

[0079] Through the above design, the goal of automatic feeding and accurate positioning of the ring 03 is achieved, laying the foundation for the subsequent high-quality press-fitting process. At the same time, in some cases, the positioning module 21 can be raised as a whole, leaving space below for extending the feeding channel 51, thereby increasing the number of synchronously fed rings 03, further improving the feeding efficiency, and making hardware preparations for realizing high-efficiency assembly line operations.

[0080] The drawing mechanism 52 includes an actuator 521 which is rotatable and also elastic in the vertical (Z-axis) direction, and a driving motor (not shown in the figure) which is integrally arranged inside the positioning module 21 and is used to drive the actuator 521 to move.

[0081] See also Figure 8 , the actuator 521 is given elastic design in the vertical direction in order to meet the space requirements under different working conditions: when working, the actuator 521 needs to be located at a certain height above the ring in order to receive the ring 03 from the feeding channel 51; but when the upper shell 01 falls on the upper surface of the positioning module 21, the original working position of the actuator 521 will interfere with the upper shell 01. Therefore, by giving elasticity in the vertical direction, the actuator 521 can drop and avoid when it is under pressure from the upper shell 01 to prevent interference, thereby ensuring that the upper shell 01 and the positioning module 21 can fit accurately without interference.

[0082] At the same time, this elastic design also has certain fault tolerance and safety protection capabilities. When interference occurs accidentally, the actuator 521 can also be lowered in time to avoid damage to related components.

[0083] In summary, the elastic design of the actuator 521 of the draw mechanism 52 in the vertical direction realizes the dynamic adjustment of space occupancy, which not only meets the space requirements for normal work, but also ensures the precise fit between the upper shell and the positioning module, and has a certain fault tolerance and safety protection capabilities.

[0084] The specific configuration of the execution element 521 is:

[0085] The shifting part is designed to be arc-shaped, which is conducive to more smoothly shifting the ring 03 to the top of the pressing station 22;

[0086] A cover plate 522 is fixedly arranged on the upward side of the toggle part. The function of the cover plate 522 is to limit the final position of the ring 03 in the vertical direction to ensure that it moves to the optimal gap position, creating conditions for subsequent precise press-fitting;

[0087] A protective elastic band 523 is provided at the contact point between the moving part of the actuator 521 and the outer periphery of the ring 03, so that the ring 03 always has an elastic thrust toward the arc part during the shifting process, so that the movement is smoother and more stable, and the ring 03 is prevented from being offset or damaged during the transfer to the pressing station 72.

[0088] Further, the push assembly 82 is specifically designed as follows, including a central positioning sleeve rod 821 that is telescopically positioned by a cylinder, and a push member 822 that is driven by a motor to push the ring for single feeding. Figure 4-5 ,

[0089] Furthermore, a ring-shaped material feeding opening 90 is provided at one end of the press-fitting workbench 10 on the Y-axis.

[0090] Next, we introduce the assembly method of gas meter housing and interface, refer to Figure 6 .

[0091] The method aims to realize the automatic and precise assembly of the gas meter housing (hereinafter referred to as "upper housing" 01) and the interface (connector 02) and the ring 03, and includes the following steps:

[0092] Step 1: Fix and support the upper shell

[0093] A specially designed positioning device 20 is used to fix and support the upper housing 01. The basic structure of the positioning device is a sub-component positioning module 21, which has the following features:

[0094] The external shape and size match the internal space of the upper shell 01 to ensure that it can be smoothly inserted into the upper shell.

[0095] The upper surface of the positioning module 21 is provided with at least two press-fitting stations 22 corresponding to the positions of the interfaces in the upper housing.

[0096] The diameter of each pressing station 22 is slightly larger than the ring 03 to ensure that the ring can fall into the station accurately.

[0097] The height of the press-fitting station 22 is flush with the upper surface of the positioning module, ensuring that the ring is tightly fitted to the upper shell after press-fitting.

[0098] The press-fitting station 22 has a built-in elastic positioning column 24, whose diameter matches the inner hole of the ring 03, for stabilizing the position of the ring.

[0099] Step 2: Automatic feeding of ring 03

[0100] The ring 03 is delivered to the assembly line by an automatic ring feeding assembly 50, which includes the following detailed operations:

[0101] The feeding channel 51 is designed in the positioning module 21 .

[0102] The sliding mechanism 52 is designed to avoid the press-fit position of the upper shell and is flexible in the vertical direction to avoid interference.

[0103] The ring 03 is pushed out of the feeding channel 51 by the pushing assembly, and then to the pressing station through the drawing mechanism 52 to ensure accurate feeding. It should be noted that in this step, the elastic positioning column 24 can cooperate with the action of the drawing mechanism 52 to descend to allow the ring 03 to enter the pressing station, and then reset to position the ring 03.

[0104] The drawing mechanism 52 includes a rotating actuator 521, a cover plate 522 and a protective elastic band 523 to ensure smooth movement and precise positioning of the ring.

[0105] Step 3: Automatic and precise loading of upper shell 01

[0106] The upper shells 01 are precisely positioned during the transportation process to ensure that they can land correctly on the positioning device 20.

[0107] According to an embodiment, handling and placement may be accomplished by a robotic arm or an automated handling device to achieve higher precision positioning.

[0108] The upper shell 01 cooperates with the clamp and the positioning device 20 to fall into place, and the positioning module 21 provides stable fixation and accurate press-fitting position.

[0109] Step 4: Automatic loading of connector 02

[0110] The joints 02 are continuously and accurately supplied through a dedicated automatic feeding system, which may include a vibrating plate feeder, a pusher, etc.

[0111] During the conveying process, the joint 02 is precisely positioned and guided, and is placed at the designated position with the help of tools such as a robotic arm or a vacuum suction cup.

[0112] Step 5: Parallel operation and efficient press-fitting

[0113] In this step, the design of the mobile device 80 plays a key role. The arrangement of the upper and lower parts of the mobile device 80 enables the press-fitting device 30 and the push assembly 82 to operate synchronously. When the press-fitting device 30 is performing press-fitting at a certain station, the corresponding push assembly 82 can push the ring into place. Once the press-fitting device 30 completes the press-fitting operation at the current station, it can immediately move to the next station without waiting for the subsequent loading of the ring, because the ring has been delivered to the position in advance. This parallel operation mode greatly saves the waiting time of the press-fitting device 30, enabling it to operate efficiently and continuously, thereby greatly improving the work efficiency of the entire production line.

[0114] Step 6: Integrated control system monitoring and quality control

[0115] The entire assembly process is monitored in real time by an integrated control system 60, which collects press-fitting parameters to ensure assembly accuracy.

[0116] Use various sensors to monitor the position and status of components to ensure the accuracy of movement.

[0117] Step 7: Pick-up and inspection after completion

[0118] The assembled products are removed by a pick-and-place robot or an automatic unloading device and subjected to quality inspection.

[0119] Once the product has been confirmed to meet the standards, it can be moved to the next process or storage area.

[0120] Step 8: Safety mechanisms and additional adjustments

[0121] If an abnormality or potential safety issue occurs, the equipment can stop working quickly to ensure safety.

[0122] The press-fitting workbench is equipped with a material filling opening to facilitate timely replenishment of ring 03.

[0123] The production line is also equipped with a precision moving device 80 to achieve accurate assembly.

[0124] Summarize

[0125] The method combines positioning devices, automatic loading, integrated control and safety mechanisms to achieve an efficient and precise automated production process for gas meter housings and interfaces.

[0126] The specific embodiments described herein are merely examples of the spirit of the present invention. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications or additions to the specific embodiments described or replace them in similar ways, but they will not deviate from the spirit of the present invention or exceed the scope defined by the appended claims.

[0127] The method comprises the following steps:

[0128] The method is based on:

[0129] 1. Use a special positioning device to fix and support the gas meter housing to be assembled.

[0130] The outer shape and size of the sub-assembly positioning module match or are slightly smaller than the inner space of the upper housing, ensuring that it can be smoothly installed in the upper housing.

[0131] The upper surface of the positioning module is provided with two press-fitting stations, corresponding to the two interface positions in the upper shell. Each press-fitting station exceeds the maximum diameter of the corresponding ring, ensuring that the ring can completely fall within the range of the press-fitting station.

[0132] The height of the press-fitting station is flush with the upper surface of the positioning module, ensuring that the ring and the upper shell are fully fitted after press-fitting.

[0133] An elastic positioning column is installed in the press-fitting station, and its outer size matches the inner hole diameter of the ring, which ensures the stability of the ring during the press-fitting process and facilitates the feeding and positioning of the ring.

[0134] 2. Use a special automatic ring loading assembly to complete the ring loading.

[0135] The automatic ring feeding assembly is responsible for conveying the rings into the feeding channel and moving the rings to the pressing station through the drawing mechanism.

[0136] The actuator of the draw mechanism has an avoidance function in the vertical direction and can dynamically adjust its height according to the press-fit position of the upper shell to avoid interference.

[0137] The rings are pushed from the feeding channel to the pressing station by the pushing assembly, ensuring that each ring is accurately fed to the predetermined position.

[0138] More specific ring loading and positioning:

[0139] Loading: The rings 03 are transported to the loading channel 51 by the automatic ring loading assembly 50. In some embodiments, the positioning module 21 is raised as a whole to increase the number of rings that can be loaded at the same time and improve the loading efficiency.

[0140] In the press-fitting station 22, an elastic positioning column 24 is installed, and its outer size matches the inner hole diameter of the ring 03. This design not only ensures the stability of the ring during the press-fitting process, but also facilitates the feeding and positioning of the ring through the elastic contraction function of the elastic positioning column.

[0141] Positioning: The ring 03 is moved to the press-fitting station 22 by the moving mechanism 52. The moving mechanism includes a rotatable actuator 521, which is flexible in the vertical direction to adapt to the space requirements under different working conditions. The design of the actuator includes an arc-shaped moving part, a cover plate 522 and a protective elastic band 523 to ensure smooth and stable movement and precise positioning of the ring.

[0142] 2. Positioning and lowering of the upper shell:

[0143] The upper shells are accurately positioned during transport to ensure that they can correctly land on the corresponding positioning devices 20. This may involve the use of positioning pins, guide templates or other mechanical positioners. In some embodiments, the upper shells are transported and placed by a mechanical arm or an automated handling device to achieve higher precision positioning.

[0144] More specifically, for example, when the upper housing 01 reaches the designated press-fitting station, it will cooperate with the fixture and positioning device 20. The interior of the positioning module 21 is designed with a cavity that matches the upper housing and a component for installing the automatic ring feeding assembly 50. The upper housing will accurately fall on the positioning module, and the shape and size that match it ensure its stable fixation.

[0145] In addition, the automatic loading process of the upper shell is integrated into the control system of the entire production line. This means that the start, operation and stop of the entire process are all automatically controlled, ensuring the timeliness and accuracy of loading.

[0146] 3. Automatic loading of joints:

[0147] The connectors are fed to the assembly line through a dedicated automatic feeding system. This system may include a vibrating plate feeder, a pusher or other automated conveying equipment to ensure a continuous and accurate supply of connectors 02.

[0148] The joints are precisely positioned and guided during the conveying process and are placed one by one at designated positions in the positioning device 20 by automated devices such as a robotic arm or a vacuum suction cup.

Claims

1. A gas meter housing and interface assembly production line, comprising a press-fitting workbench (10) arranged on the production line, a moving device (80) arranged on the press-fitting workbench (10), a press-fitting device (30) installed on the moving device (80), a feeding and conveying system (40) connected to the press-fitting workbench (10), and an integrated control system (60) for controlling the entire production line; characterized in that : 1) A plurality of modularly designed positioning devices (20) are provided on the press-fitting workbench (10). When the press-fitting device (30) is press-fitting a workpiece on one of the positioning devices (20), the feeding and conveying system (40) can load another or more positioning devices (20), thereby realizing the assembly line operation of the assembly process; 2) The moving device (80) can move precisely in the three directions of X, Y, and Z, and carry the press-fitting device (30) to press-fit each positioning device (20), while driving the pushing component (82) installed on the driving mounting plate (81) below it to push the ring into place; The positioning device (20) comprises a positioning module (21) arranged on a press-fitting workbench (10), a press-fitting station (22) provided on the upper surface of the positioning module (21), a positioning assembly hole (23) provided in the press-fitting station (22) and coaxial with the corresponding interface of the upper shell, an elastic positioning column (24) installed in the positioning assembly hole (23), and an automatic ring feeding assembly (50) connected to one side of the press-fitting station (22), and a feeding channel (51) of the automatic ring feeding assembly (50) provided on one side of each press-fitting station (22). , a shifting mechanism (52) is arranged between the feeding channel (51) and the pressing station (22) and is elastic in the vertical direction; the shifting mechanism (52) includes an actuator (521) that is rotatable and also elastic in the vertical direction, the shifting part of the actuator (521) is designed to be arc-shaped, and a cover plate (522) is fixedly arranged on the upper side of the shifting part, and the shifting part is designed to be arc-shaped, which is conducive to more smoothly shifting the ring (03) to the top of the pressing station (22); the function of the cover plate (522) is to limit the ring (03) The final position in the vertical direction ensures that the ring (03) moves to the optimal gap position, creating conditions for subsequent precise pressing. A protective elastic band (523) is provided at the contact point between the toggle portion of the actuator (521) and the outer periphery of the ring (03), so that the ring (03) always has an elastic thrust toward the arc portion during the toggle process, so that the movement is smoother and more stable, and the ring (03) is prevented from being offset or damaged during the transfer to the pressing station (72).

2. The assembly line according to claim 1 is characterized in that The press-fitting equipment (30) adopts a hydraulic press, a screw press and a servo press.

3. The assembly line according to claim 1 is characterized in that The feeding and conveying system (40) comprises an upper shell conveyor belt, a diversified feeding device and an automatic ring feeding assembly (50).

4. The assembly line according to claim 1 is characterized in that The positioning devices (20) are arranged in at least two rows in the X-axis direction and in multiple columns in the Y-axis direction.

5. The assembly line according to claim 1 is characterized in that The upwardly extending portion of the moving device (80) is used to carry the press-fitting device (30), and the downwardly extending portion is fixedly mounted with a driving mounting plate (81).

6. The assembly line according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that The drive mounting plate (81) is used to carry and mount a push assembly (82) corresponding to each positioning device (20) arranged in the X-axis direction.

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