Vacuum consumable arc furnace auxiliary electrode automatic storage and transfer control system

Abstract

This invention discloses an automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace. The system includes an auxiliary electrode storage rack, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, an industrial control computer, a navigation mechanism positioned between the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station, and multiple call buttons installed at each production station. The auxiliary electrode storage rack includes a lower horizontal frame, an upper horizontal frame, and multiple vertical main support frames connecting the horizontal frame and the upper horizontal frame. Multiple storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper horizontal frame. The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley includes a body, a lifting frame, two clamps on the lifting frame for holding the auxiliary electrode body, and a weighing sensor for measuring the mass of the auxiliary electrode. This invention utilizes the call buttons, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, the auxiliary electrode storage rack, and the industrial control computer in coordination. The navigation mechanism provides the travel and return paths, and the effective length of the auxiliary electrode can be calculated from the weighing sensor, resulting in a high degree of automation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of electrodes used in vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnaces, and specifically relates to an automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnaces. Background Technology

[0002] In the production process of melting titanium (zirconium) alloy ingots in a vacuum consumable arc furnace, auxiliary electrodes are typically used, or auxiliary electrodes are used to connect electrode rods and consumable electrodes. During the melting process, the auxiliary electrodes serve to conduct the large melting current and connect the electrode rods and consumable electrodes. Because the auxiliary electrodes operate under a large current of tens of thousands of amperes, and the melting process is uninterrupted, the auxiliary electrodes may become shorter or uneven after each melting process. When the auxiliary electrodes become too short, they need to be scrapped. Currently, the transfer of auxiliary electrodes is all done manually, and their storage is haphazard. The auxiliary electrodes are heavy, and uneven ones can only be placed upside down in the storage area, resulting in a disorganized and space-consuming process. Furthermore, it is impossible to effectively and efficiently determine the storage location and effective length of each auxiliary electrode each time it is used. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is to address the shortcomings of the prior art by providing an automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace. The system features a novel and reasonable design, using an auxiliary electrode storage rack to orderly store auxiliary electrodes of different lengths, resulting in neat arrangement and space saving. It is equipped with an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, which automatically transfers the electrodes by adjusting the height of two clamps according to their length. During operation, a call button, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, and an industrial control computer work together, providing the travel and return paths through a navigation mechanism. Furthermore, the effective length of the auxiliary electrode can be calculated from a weighing sensor. The system boasts a high degree of automation and is easy to promote and use.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: an automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace, characterized in that: it includes an auxiliary electrode storage rack, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, an industrial control computer, a navigation mechanism set between the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station, and multiple call devices respectively installed at each production station;

[0005] The auxiliary electrode storage rack includes a lower horizontal frame, an upper horizontal frame arranged parallel to the lower horizontal frame, and multiple vertical main support frames for connecting the horizontal frame and the upper horizontal frame. Multiple storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper horizontal frame. Each storage platform includes two parallel hanging plate support frames. One end of each hanging plate support frame is fixed to the upper horizontal frame. A hanging plate is provided on the top of each hanging plate support frame. A flexible protective layer is attached to the top of the hanging plate. The end of the hanging plate and the flexible protective layer away from the upper horizontal frame is provided with a slot for attaching an electrode clip for the auxiliary electrode. A position indicator for connecting to an industrial control computer is provided on the hanging plate.

[0006] The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley includes a vehicle body, a lifting frame mounted on the vehicle body, two clamps on the lifting frame for clamping the electrode body, and a weighing sensor for measuring the mass of the auxiliary electrode.

[0007] The above-mentioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: an upper horizontal support frame is provided at the upper connection position of the upper horizontal frame and the vertical main support frame, and a lower horizontal bracket is provided at the lower connection position of the upper horizontal frame and the vertical main support frame; the lower horizontal bracket and the upper horizontal support frame are connected by a vertical auxiliary support frame; and the lower horizontal bracket is fixed to the ground by bolts.

[0008] The above-mentioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: two adjacent vertical main support frames among the plurality of vertical main support frames are connected in the middle by a crossbeam, and multiple sets of storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the crossbeam.

[0009] The aforementioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: the navigation mechanism includes a magnetic navigation network composed of multiple magnetic strips laid on the travel path of the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley; the topology of the magnetic navigation network is adapted to the topology between the material position in the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station; multiple RFID positioning cards are installed in the magnetic navigation network composed of multiple magnetic strips; multiple steering wheels, multiple bottom-lifting cylinders, a card reader adapted to the RFID positioning card, and a magnetic navigation sensor adapted to the magnetic strips are provided at the bottom of the trolley.

[0010] The aforementioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: the lifting frame includes two first lifting cylinders, two primary slide rails vertically fixed on the vehicle body, and a π-shaped secondary slide rail that slides in cooperation with the two primary slide rails. The π-shaped secondary slide rail slides in cooperation with two sliders on the rear side of the mounting back plate. A mounting platform is provided at the bottom of the rear side of the mounting back plate, and mounting side plates are provided on both sides of the front side of the mounting back plate. Two guide rods are provided between the two mounting side plates, and telescopic cylinders are installed on the two mounting side plates at positions between the two guide rods. The extension of the two telescopic cylinders... Each of the two first lifting cylinders has a clamp connected to its retracted end. The fixed ends of the two first lifting cylinders are installed on the vehicle body. The telescopic ends of the two first lifting cylinders are connected to the two outer edges of the π-shaped secondary slide rail. The bottom of the two vertical slide rails of the π-shaped secondary slide rail are connected by a connecting support plate. The second lifting cylinder is installed on the connecting support plate. The telescopic end of the second lifting cylinder is connected to the middle of the horizontally set connecting shaft. The two ends of the connecting shaft are respectively provided with support guide wheels that cooperate with the chain. One end of the chain is connected to the connecting support plate, and the other end of the chain is connected to the mounting platform. The weighing sensor is installed on the mounting platform.

[0011] The aforementioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: an electronic circuit board, a power supply battery, a hydraulic station, and a counterweight are installed inside the vehicle body; the electronic circuit board integrates a controller and a memory, a laser SLAM wireless navigation module, a first communication module communicating with an industrial control computer, and a second communication module communicating with a pager, all connected to the controller; the steering wheel, bottom-lifting cylinder, first lifting cylinder, second lifting cylinder, and telescopic cylinder are all controlled by the controller; the signal output terminals of the magnetic navigation sensor, the card reader, and the weighing sensor are all connected to the signal input terminal of the controller.

[0012] The above-mentioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: a status indicator light is installed on the outside of the first-stage slide rail, and the status indicator light is controlled by a controller.

[0013] The above-mentioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: the caller includes a housing, an input module disposed on the housing for inputting the required length information of the auxiliary electrode, and an electronic circuit printed circuit board disposed inside the housing. The electronic circuit printed circuit board integrates a microcontroller and a wireless communication transmitting module that communicates with the microcontroller. The second communication module is a wireless communication receiving module adapted to the wireless transmitting communication module.

[0014] The above-mentioned automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is characterized in that: the position indicator includes an infrared pair tube or a pressure sensor installed on the slot of the hanging plate.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0016] 1. This invention provides as many storage positions as possible for auxiliary electrodes by symmetrically arranging multiple storage platforms on both sides of the upper horizontal frame of the auxiliary electrode storage rack. The storage platforms are equipped with hanging plates and flexible protective layers to prevent wear on the electrode clips of the auxiliary electrodes. The auxiliary electrode storage rack can store auxiliary electrodes of different lengths in an orderly manner, which is neat, space-saving, and easy to promote and use.

[0017] 2. This invention uses two clamps to clamp the electrode body of the auxiliary electrode, allowing the auxiliary electrode to be removed from or returned to the slot on the auxiliary electrode storage rack. The lifting frame adjusts the height of the two clamps according to the length of the auxiliary electrode for automatic clamping and transfer, which is reliable, stable and effective.

[0018] 3. This invention provides a position indicator on the mounting plate that is connected to an industrial control computer, allowing the industrial control computer to check in real time whether each material position has an auxiliary electrode stored, which facilitates the provision of data support for matching the auxiliary electrode with the material position after use.

[0019] 4. This invention uses a call button, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, and an industrial control computer in conjunction with a navigation mechanism to provide the travel and return paths. In addition, the effective length of the auxiliary electrode can be calculated based on the weighing sensor, resulting in a high degree of automation.

[0020] In summary, this invention features a novel and reasonable design. It uses an auxiliary electrode storage rack to store auxiliary electrodes of different lengths in an orderly manner, resulting in neat arrangement and space saving. It is equipped with an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, which automatically transfers the electrodes by adjusting the height of the two clamps according to their length. During operation, the call button, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, and the industrial control computer work together, with a navigation mechanism providing the travel and return paths. Furthermore, the effective length of the auxiliary electrode can be calculated from the weighing sensor, resulting in a high degree of automation and facilitating widespread use.

[0021] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary electrode storage rack and auxiliary electrode transfer trolley of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transfer trolley that holds the auxiliary long electrode according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the transfer trolley of the present invention when it is not in operation.

[0025] Figure 4This is a side view of the transfer trolley holding the auxiliary short electrode according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the control principle of the present invention.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0028] 1—Lower horizontal frame; 2—Upper horizontal frame; 3—Vertical main support frame;

[0029] 4—Upper horizontal support frame; 5—Lower horizontal bracket; 6—Vertical auxiliary support frame;

[0030] 7—Crossbeam; 8—Hanging plate support frame; 9—Hanging plate;

[0031] 10—Flexible protective layer; 11—Electrode body; 12—Electrode clip;

[0032] 13—Car body; 14—Primary slide rail; 15—Secondary slide rail;

[0033] 16—First lifting cylinder; 17—Connecting support plate; 18—Second lifting cylinder;

[0034] 19—Connecting shaft; 20—Supporting guide wheel; 21—Chain;

[0035] 22—Backplate mounting; 23—Slider; 24—Mounting platform;

[0036] 25—Guide rod; 26—Clamping clamp; 27—Status indicator light;

[0037] 28—Steering wheel; 29—Bottoming-out lifting cylinder; 30—Telescopic cylinder;

[0038] 31—Mounting side panel; 32—Controller; 33—First communication module;

[0039] 34—Industrial control computer; 35—Navigation mechanism; 36—Magnetic navigation sensor;

[0040] 37—Position sensor; 38—Weighing sensor; 39—Memory;

[0041] 40—Second communication module; 41—Paging device; 42—Card reader;

[0042] 43—Laser SLAM wireless navigation module. Detailed Implementation

[0043] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, the automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace of the present invention includes an auxiliary electrode storage rack, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, an industrial control computer 34, a navigation mechanism 35 disposed between the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station, and multiple callers 41 respectively installed at each production station.

[0044] The auxiliary electrode storage rack includes a lower horizontal frame 1, an upper horizontal frame 2 arranged parallel to the lower horizontal frame 1, and multiple vertical main support frames 3 for connecting the horizontal frame 1 and the upper horizontal frame 2. Multiple storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper horizontal frame 2. Each storage platform includes two parallel hanging plate support frames 8. One end of each of the two hanging plate support frames 8 is fixed to the upper horizontal frame 2. A hanging plate 9 is provided on the top of the two hanging plate support frames 8. A flexible protective layer 10 is attached to the top of the hanging plate 9. The end of the hanging plate 9 and the flexible protective layer 10 away from the upper horizontal frame 2 is provided with a slot for attaching an electrode clip 12 to the auxiliary electrode. A position indicator 37 connected to the industrial control computer 34 is provided on the hanging plate 9.

[0045] The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley includes a vehicle body 13, a lifting frame mounted on the vehicle body 13, two clamps 26 for clamping the auxiliary electrode body 11, both mounted on the lifting frame, and a weighing sensor 38 for measuring the mass of the auxiliary electrode.

[0046] It should be noted that by symmetrically setting multiple storage platforms on both sides of the upper horizontal frame of the auxiliary electrode storage rack, as many storage positions for auxiliary electrodes as possible are provided. Hanging plates and flexible protective layers are installed on the storage platforms to prevent wear on the electrode clamps of the auxiliary electrodes. The auxiliary electrode storage rack stores auxiliary electrodes of different lengths in an orderly manner, arranging them neatly and saving space. Two clamps are used to clamp the electrode body of the auxiliary electrodes, allowing them to be removed from or returned to the slots on the auxiliary electrode storage rack. The lifting frame adjusts the height of the two clamps according to the different lengths of the auxiliary electrodes for automatic clamping and transfer. A position indicator connected to the industrial control computer is installed on the hanging plate, allowing the industrial control computer to check in real time whether each material position stores an auxiliary electrode, facilitating data support for matching used auxiliary electrodes to material positions. Through the cooperation of a call button, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, and the industrial control computer, a navigation mechanism provides the travel and return paths. Furthermore, the effective length of the auxiliary electrode can be calculated from the weighing sensor, resulting in a high degree of automation.

[0047] In this embodiment, an upper horizontal support frame 4 is provided at the upper connection position of the upper horizontal frame 2 and the vertical main support frame 3, and a lower horizontal bracket 5 is provided at the lower connection position of the upper horizontal frame 2 and the vertical main support frame 3. The lower horizontal bracket 5 and the upper horizontal support frame 4 are connected by a vertical auxiliary support frame 6, and the lower horizontal bracket 5 is fixed to the ground by bolts.

[0048] It should be noted that the auxiliary electrode is heavy, and the lower horizontal bracket 5 needs to be fixed to the ground with bolts to ensure the stability of the auxiliary electrode storage rack. The lower horizontal bracket 5, the upper horizontal support frame 4 and the vertical auxiliary support frame 6 work together to increase the support stability of the auxiliary electrode storage rack.

[0049] In this embodiment, two adjacent vertical main support frames 3 are connected in the middle by a crossbeam 7, and multiple storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the crossbeam 7.

[0050] It should be noted that the auxiliary electrodes come in various specifications, including long auxiliary electrodes and short auxiliary electrodes. If a short auxiliary electrode occupies the space of a long auxiliary electrode, it will waste space resources. By selecting two adjacent vertical main support frames 3 from among the multiple vertical main support frames 3 and connecting them with the crossbeam 7, the short auxiliary electrodes can be stored in layers, thus expanding the capacity of the auxiliary electrode storage rack.

[0051] In this embodiment, the navigation mechanism 35 includes a magnetic navigation network composed of multiple magnetic strips laid on the travel path of the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley. The topology of the magnetic navigation network is adapted to the topology between the material positions in the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station. Multiple RFID positioning cards are installed in the magnetic navigation network composed of multiple magnetic strips. The bottom of the vehicle body 13 is provided with multiple steering wheels 28, multiple bottom-lifting cylinders 29, a card reader 42 adapted to the RFID positioning card, and a magnetic navigation sensor 36 adapted to the magnetic strips.

[0052] It should be noted that when the vehicle body 13 carries the auxiliary electrode to the side of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace and engages with the electrode clamp on the electric arc furnace cover, the electric arc furnace cover needs to stably press down on the auxiliary electrode in order to connect the auxiliary electrode with the electrode clamp. At this time, the auxiliary electrode is lowered to the upper surface of the vehicle body 13, and multiple bottom-lifting hydraulic cylinders 29 extend to make multiple steering wheels 28 off the ground and free from force, thus ensuring the stability of the vehicle body 13.

[0053] In this embodiment, the lifting frame includes two first lifting cylinders 16, two primary slide rails 14 vertically fixed on the vehicle body 13, and a π-shaped secondary slide rail 15 that slides in cooperation with the two primary slide rails 14. The π-shaped secondary slide rail 15 slides in cooperation with two sliders 23 on the rear side of the mounting back plate 22. A mounting platform 24 is provided at the bottom rear side of the mounting back plate 22, and mounting side plates 31 are provided on both sides of the front side of the mounting back plate 22. Two guide rods 25 are provided between the two mounting side plates 31. Telescopic cylinders 30 are installed on the two mounting side plates 31 at the positions between the two guide rods 25. The telescopic ends of the two telescopic cylinders 30 are respectively connected to a clamp 26. The fixed ends of the two first lifting cylinders 16 are installed on the vehicle body 13. The telescopic ends of the two first lifting cylinders 16 are respectively connected to the two outer edges of the π-shaped secondary slide rail 15. The bottom of the two vertical slide rails of the π-shaped secondary slide rail 15 are connected by a connecting support plate 17. A second lifting cylinder 18 is installed on the connecting support plate 17. The telescopic end of the second lifting cylinder 18 is connected to the middle of the horizontally set connecting shaft 19. Support guide wheels 20 that cooperate with the chain 21 are respectively set at both ends of the connecting shaft 19. One end of the chain 21 is connected to the connecting support plate 17, and the other end of the chain 21 is connected to the mounting platform 24. The weighing sensor 38 is installed on the mounting platform 24.

[0054] In this embodiment, the vehicle body 13 is equipped with an electronic circuit board, a power supply battery, a hydraulic station, and a counterweight. The electronic circuit board integrates a controller 32, a memory 39, a laser SLAM wireless navigation module 43, a first communication module 33 that communicates with the industrial control computer 34, and a second communication module 40 that communicates with the pager 41. The steering wheel 28, the bottom-reaching lifting cylinder 29, the first lifting cylinder 16, the second lifting cylinder 18, and the telescopic cylinder 30 are all controlled by the controller 32. The signal output terminals of the magnetic navigation sensor 36, the card reader 42, and the weighing sensor 38 are all connected to the signal input terminal of the controller 32.

[0055] It should be noted that the auxiliary electrode is heavy, and counterweights need to be installed inside the vehicle body 13 to ensure the stability of the vehicle body 13 during transportation and to prevent the vehicle body 13 from tipping over.

[0056] In this embodiment, a status indicator light 27 is installed on the outer side of the first-stage slide rail 14, and the status indicator light 27 is controlled by the controller 32.

[0057] In this embodiment, the caller 41 includes a housing, an input module disposed on the housing for inputting auxiliary electrode length requirements, and an electronic circuit printed circuit board disposed inside the housing. The electronic circuit printed circuit board integrates a microcontroller and a wireless communication transmitting module that communicates with the microcontroller. The second communication module 40 is a wireless communication receiving module adapted to the wireless transmitting communication module.

[0058] In this embodiment, the position indicator 37 includes an infrared photocell or a pressure sensor disposed on the slot of the mounting plate 9.

[0059] When using this invention, the following steps are included:

[0060] Step 1: Divide the installation areas for the auxiliary long electrode and the auxiliary short electrode, and place the auxiliary electrodes at the corresponding material positions. The process is as follows:

[0061] Step 101: Set the length threshold of the auxiliary electrode. When the length of the auxiliary electrode is greater than the length threshold, the corresponding auxiliary electrode is a long auxiliary electrode; when the length of the auxiliary electrode is not greater than the length threshold, the corresponding auxiliary electrode is a short auxiliary electrode.

[0062] Step 102: Divide the auxiliary short electrode installation area on the auxiliary electrode storage rack. In the auxiliary short electrode installation area, connect the crossbeam 7 in the middle of two adjacent vertical main support frames 3 so that the upper and lower installation space of the crossbeam 7 can meet the installation of the auxiliary short electrode. Multiple sets of storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the crossbeam 7.

[0063] The remaining installation area on the auxiliary electrode storage rack is the installation area for auxiliary long electrodes;

[0064] One storage platform serves as the material level for one auxiliary electrode;

[0065] Step 103: Place the auxiliary short electrode on the material position of the auxiliary short electrode, and place the auxiliary long electrode on the material position of the auxiliary long electrode;

[0066] Step 104: Store all auxiliary electrode placement information on the auxiliary electrode storage rack in memory 39;

[0067] Step 2, material preparation, the process is as follows:

[0068] Step 201: When a call button 41 at a production workstation issues a request for auxiliary electrodes, the controller 32 generates a travel path for the auxiliary electrode transfer cart based on the location of the corresponding call button 41 and the length of the auxiliary electrode. This travel path is then transmitted to the laser SLAM wireless navigation module 43 and the industrial computer 34. The industrial computer 34 transmits the travel path to the navigation mechanism 35. The magnetic navigation network and multiple RFID positioning cards in the navigation mechanism 35 are used for precise positioning of the auxiliary electrode transfer cart within the auxiliary electrode storage rack and at the production workstation. The laser SLAM wireless navigation module 43 is used for wireless positioning of the auxiliary electrode transfer cart within the factory.

[0069] Step 202: The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley removes the auxiliary electrodes assigned on the auxiliary electrode storage rack and moves them to the corresponding production station along the travel path.

[0070] Step 3: Take the auxiliary electrode, the process is as follows:

[0071] Step 301: Extend multiple bottom-reaching lifting cylinders 29 to lift multiple steering wheels 28 off the ground and remove them from the force.

[0072] Step 302: Control the lifting frame to lower the auxiliary electrode to the upper surface of the vehicle body 13;

[0073] Step 303: Loosen the two clamps 26 so that the two clamps 26 support the auxiliary electrode. At this time, there is a gap between the two clamps 26 and the auxiliary electrode.

[0074] Step 304: The electrode clamp on the furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is moved to directly above the electrode clamp 12 and the auxiliary electrode is pressed down to achieve connection with the auxiliary electrode. Then the auxiliary electrode is removed and the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley is returned to its position.

[0075] Step 4: Recover the auxiliary electrode, the process is as follows:

[0076] Step 401: After production is completed, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley is moved to the corresponding production station, and multiple bottom-lifting cylinders 29 are extended to make multiple steering wheels 28 off the ground and free from force, and the two clamps 26 are opened.

[0077] Step 402: The electrode clamp on the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace moves with the used auxiliary electrode, so that the bottom of the auxiliary electrode passes through the space between the two clamps 26 and falls on the upper surface of the vehicle body 13.

[0078] Step 403: Control the lifting frame to raise the two clamps 26. The two clamps 26 join together to support the electrode body 11 of the auxiliary electrode. At this time, there is a gap between the two clamps 26 and the auxiliary electrode.

[0079] Step 404: The electrode clamps on the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming arc furnace press down on the auxiliary electrode to separate it from the auxiliary electrode, remove the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming arc furnace, and control the two clamps 26 to tighten the auxiliary electrode.

[0080] Step 405: Control the lifting frame to raise the auxiliary electrode away from the upper surface of the vehicle body 13;

[0081] Step 406: Use the weighing sensor 38 to obtain the weight of the auxiliary electrode after use, and the controller 32 calculates the effective length of the auxiliary electrode after use.

[0082] Step 5: Transfer the used auxiliary electrode to the auxiliary electrode storage rack, as follows:

[0083] Step 501: Based on the effective length of the used auxiliary electrode and the storage status on the auxiliary electrode storage rack, match the material position of the used auxiliary electrode;

[0084] Step 502: The controller 32 generates the return path of the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley based on the matched material position and the current production station, and transmits the return path to the laser SLAM wireless navigation module 43 and the industrial control computer 34. The industrial control computer 34 transmits the travel path to the navigation mechanism 35.

[0085] Step 503: The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley carries the used auxiliary electrode along the return path to the matched material position. The memory 39 stores the position of the material position and the effective length of the auxiliary electrode at the corresponding material position.

[0086] Step Six: Determine whether to report scrapping to the industrial control computer: If the effective length of the used auxiliary electrode is less than the scrapping length threshold, scrap the used auxiliary electrode and proceed to Step Seven; otherwise, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley waits for the next material feeding call.

[0087] Step 7: Dispose of the used auxiliary electrode and update the memory information. The process is as follows:

[0088] Step 701: The controller 32 regards the auxiliary electrodes whose effective length is less than the scrap length threshold stored in the memory 39 as auxiliary electrodes to be scrapped, and then uploads the position information of the auxiliary electrodes to be scrapped stored in the memory 39 to the industrial control computer 34.

[0089] Step 702: Based on the location information of the auxiliary electrode to be scrapped, the staff removes the auxiliary electrode to be scrapped and replaces or replenishes it with a new auxiliary electrode.

[0090] Step 703: Store the length information of the new auxiliary electrode that has been replaced or supplemented in the memory 39 to update the memory information.

[0091] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any limitation on the present invention. Any simple modifications, alterations, or equivalent structural changes made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention shall still fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A vacuum arc remelting furnace auxiliary electrode automatic storage and transfer control system, characterized in that: It includes an auxiliary electrode storage rack, an auxiliary electrode transfer trolley, an industrial control computer (34), a navigation mechanism (35) set between the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station, and multiple callers (41) installed at each production station. The auxiliary electrode storage rack includes a lower horizontal frame (1), an upper horizontal frame (2) arranged parallel to the lower horizontal frame (1), and multiple vertical main support frames (3) for connecting the horizontal frame (1) and the upper horizontal frame (2). Multiple storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper horizontal frame (2). Each storage platform includes two parallel hanging plate support frames (8). One end of each of the two hanging plate support frames (8) is fixed on the upper horizontal frame (2). A hanging plate (9) is provided on the top of each of the two hanging plate support frames (8). A flexible protective layer (10) is attached to the top of the hanging plate (9). The end of the hanging plate (9) and the flexible protective layer (10) away from the upper horizontal frame (2) is provided with a slot for attaching an electrode clip (12) to the auxiliary electrode. A position indicator (37) connected to an industrial control computer (34) is provided on the hanging plate (9). The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley includes a vehicle body (13), a lifting frame mounted on the vehicle body (13), two clamps (26) for clamping the electrode body (11) on the lifting frame, and a weighing sensor (38) for measuring the mass of the auxiliary electrode. The navigation mechanism (35) includes a magnetic navigation network consisting of multiple magnetic strips laid on the travel path of the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley. The topology of the magnetic navigation network is adapted to the topology between the material position in the auxiliary electrode storage rack and each production station. Multiple RFID positioning cards are installed in the magnetic navigation network consisting of multiple magnetic strips. Multiple steering wheels (28), multiple bottom-lifting cylinders (29), a card reader (42) adapted to the RFID positioning card, and a magnetic navigation sensor (36) adapted to the magnetic strip are provided at the bottom of the vehicle body (13). An electronic circuit board, a power supply battery, a hydraulic station, and a counterweight are provided inside the vehicle body (13). The electronic circuit board integrates a controller (32) and a memory (39) connected to the controller (32), a laser SLAM wireless navigation module (43), a first communication module (33) communicating with the industrial control computer (34), and a second communication module (40) communicating with the caller (41). When using it, the following steps are included: Step 1: Divide the installation areas for the auxiliary long electrode and the auxiliary short electrode, and place the auxiliary electrodes at the corresponding material positions. The process is as follows: Step 101: Set the length threshold of the auxiliary electrode. When the length of the auxiliary electrode is greater than the length threshold, the corresponding auxiliary electrode is a long auxiliary electrode; when the length of the auxiliary electrode is not greater than the length threshold, the corresponding auxiliary electrode is a short auxiliary electrode. Step 102: Divide the auxiliary short electrode installation area on the auxiliary electrode storage rack. In the auxiliary short electrode installation area, connect the crossbeam (7) in the middle of two adjacent vertical main support frames (3) so that the upper and lower installation space of the crossbeam (7) can meet the installation of the auxiliary short electrode. Multiple sets of storage platforms are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the crossbeam (7). The remaining installation area on the auxiliary electrode storage rack is the installation area for auxiliary long electrodes; One storage platform serves as the material level for one auxiliary electrode; Step 103: Place the auxiliary short electrode on the material position of the auxiliary short electrode, and place the auxiliary long electrode on the material position of the auxiliary long electrode; Step 104: Store all auxiliary electrode placement information on the auxiliary electrode storage rack in the memory (39); Step 2, material preparation, the process is as follows: Step 201: When a call button (41) at a production station issues a request for auxiliary electrodes, the controller (32) generates the travel path of the auxiliary electrode transfer cart based on the location of the corresponding call button (41) and the length of the auxiliary electrode, and transmits the travel path to the laser SLAM wireless navigation module (43) and the industrial control computer (34). The industrial control computer (34) transmits the travel path to the navigation mechanism (35). The magnetic navigation wire mesh and multiple RFID positioning cards in the navigation mechanism (35) are used for the precise positioning of the auxiliary electrode transfer cart at the location of the auxiliary electrode storage rack and the production station. The laser SLAM wireless navigation module (43) is used for the wireless positioning of the auxiliary electrode transfer cart as it travels within the factory. Step 202: The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley removes the auxiliary electrodes assigned on the auxiliary electrode storage rack and moves them to the corresponding production station along the travel path. Step 3: Take the auxiliary electrode, the process is as follows: Step 301: Extend multiple bottom-reaching lifting cylinders (29) to lift multiple steering wheels (28) off the ground and remove them from the force. Step 302: Control the lifting frame to lower the auxiliary electrode to the upper surface of the vehicle body (13); Step 303: Loosen the two clamps (26) so that the two clamps (26) support the auxiliary electrode. At this time, there is a gap between the two clamps (26) and the auxiliary electrode. Step 304: The electrode clamp on the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace is moved to the top of the time electrode clamp (12) and the auxiliary electrode is pressed down to achieve connection with the auxiliary electrode. Then the auxiliary electrode is removed and the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley is returned to its position. Step 4: Recover the auxiliary electrode, the process is as follows: Step 401: After production is completed, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley is moved to the corresponding production station, and multiple bottom-lifting cylinders (29) are extended to make multiple steering wheels (28) off the ground and free from force, and the two clamps (26) are opened. Step 402: The electrode clamp on the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming electric arc furnace moves with the used auxiliary electrode, so that the bottom of the auxiliary electrode passes through the space between the two clamps (26) and falls on the upper surface of the vehicle body (13). Step 403: Control the lifting frame to raise the two clamps (26) and join the two clamps (26) to support the electrode body (11) of the auxiliary electrode. At this time, there is a gap between the two clamps (26) and the auxiliary electrode. Step 404: The electrode clamps on the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming arc furnace press down on the auxiliary electrode to separate it from the auxiliary electrode, remove the arc furnace cover of the vacuum self-consuming arc furnace, and control the two clamps (26) to tighten the auxiliary electrode. Step 405: Control the lifting frame to raise the auxiliary electrode away from the upper surface of the vehicle body (13); Step 406: Use the weighing sensor (38) to obtain the weight of the auxiliary electrode after use, and the controller (32) calculates the effective length of the auxiliary electrode after use. Step 5: Transfer the used auxiliary electrode to the auxiliary electrode storage rack, as follows: Step 501: Based on the effective length of the used auxiliary electrode and the storage status on the auxiliary electrode storage rack, match the material position of the used auxiliary electrode; Step 502: The controller (32) generates the return path of the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley according to the matched material position and the current production station, and transmits the return path to the laser SLAM wireless navigation module (43) and the industrial computer (34). The industrial computer (34) transmits the travel path to the navigation mechanism (35). Step 503: The auxiliary electrode transfer trolley carries the used auxiliary electrode along the return path to the matched material position. The memory (39) stores the position of the material position and the effective length of the auxiliary electrode at the corresponding material position. Step Six: Determine whether to report scrapping to the industrial control computer: If the effective length of the used auxiliary electrode is less than the scrapping length threshold, scrap the used auxiliary electrode and proceed to Step Seven; otherwise, the auxiliary electrode transfer trolley waits for the next material feeding call. Step 7: Dispose of the used auxiliary electrode and update the memory information. The process is as follows: Step 701: The controller (32) regards the auxiliary electrodes whose effective length is less than the scrap length threshold stored in the memory (39) as auxiliary electrodes to be scrapped, and then uploads the position information of the auxiliary electrodes to be scrapped stored in the memory (39) to the industrial control computer (34). Step 702: Based on the location information of the auxiliary electrode to be scrapped, the staff removes the auxiliary electrode to be scrapped and replaces or replenishes it with a new auxiliary electrode. Step 703: Store the length information of the new auxiliary electrode that has been replaced or supplemented in the memory (39) to update the memory information.

2. The automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum consumable arc furnace according to claim 1, characterized in that: An upper horizontal support frame (4) is provided at the upper connection position of the upper horizontal frame (2) and the vertical main support frame (3), and a lower horizontal bracket (5) is provided at the lower connection position of the upper horizontal frame (2) and the vertical main support frame (3). The lower horizontal bracket (5) and the upper horizontal support frame (4) are connected by a vertical auxiliary support frame (6), and the lower horizontal bracket (5) is fixed to the ground by bolts.

3. The automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum consumable arc furnace according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lifting frame includes two first lifting cylinders (16), two first-stage slide rails (14) vertically fixed on the vehicle body (13), and a π-shaped second-stage slide rail (15) that slides in cooperation with the two first-stage slide rails (14). The π-shaped second-stage slide rail (15) slides in cooperation with two sliders (23) on the rear side of the mounting back plate (22). A mounting platform (24) is provided at the bottom rear side of the mounting back plate (22). Mounting side plates (31) are provided on both sides of the front side of the mounting back plate (22). Two guide rods (25) are provided between the two mounting side plates (31). Telescopic cylinders (30) are installed on the two mounting side plates (31) at the position between the two guide rods (25). The telescopic ends of the two telescopic cylinders (30) are respectively connected to a clamp (26). The fixed end of a lifting cylinder (16) is installed on the vehicle body (13). The telescopic ends of the two first lifting cylinders (16) are respectively connected to the two outer edges of the π-shaped secondary slide rail (15). The bottom of the two vertical slide rails of the π-shaped secondary slide rail (15) are connected by a connecting support plate (17). A second lifting cylinder (18) is installed on the connecting support plate (17). The telescopic end of the second lifting cylinder (18) is connected to the middle of the horizontally set connecting shaft (19). The two ends of the connecting shaft (19) are respectively provided with support guide wheels (20) that cooperate with the chain (21). One end of the chain (21) is connected to the connecting support plate (17), and the other end of the chain (21) is connected to the mounting platform (24). The weighing sensor (38) is installed on the mounting platform (24).

4. The vacuum arc remelting electrode automated storage and transfer control system of claim 3, wherein: The steering wheel (28), bottom lifting cylinder (29), first lifting cylinder (16), second lifting cylinder (18) and telescopic cylinder (30) are all controlled by controller (32). The signal output terminal of magnetic navigation sensor (36), the signal output terminal of card reader (42) and the signal output terminal of weighing sensor (38) are all connected to the signal input terminal of controller (32).

5. The automatic storage and transfer control system for auxiliary electrodes of a vacuum consumable arc furnace according to claim 4, characterized in that: A status indicator light (27) is installed on the outside of the first-level slide rail (14), and the status indicator light (27) is controlled by the controller (32).

6. The vacuum arc remelting electrode automated storage and transfer control system of claim 4, wherein: The call device (41) includes a housing, an input module disposed on the housing for inputting auxiliary electrode length requirements, and an electronic circuit printed circuit board disposed inside the housing. The electronic circuit printed circuit board integrates a microcontroller and a wireless communication transmitting module that communicates with the microcontroller. The second communication module (40) is a wireless communication receiving module adapted to the wireless transmitting communication module.

7. The vacuum arc remelting electrode automated storage and transfer control system of claim 1 wherein: The position indicator (37) includes an infrared pair or pressure sensor disposed on a slot in the mounting plate (9).

Images