Positioning device for accurate positioning of rings in gas meter assembly lines

Abstract

The present invention relates to a positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line, aiming to achieve accurate positioning of the ring and other components during the assembly process. The device consists of a positioning module that matches the shape of the internal space of the upper shell and a sliding mechanism. The positioning module ensures that the position of the upper shell is accurately limited, while the sliding mechanism is responsible for accurately moving the ring to the top of the press-fitting station. The design adopts a horizontal press-fitting station with an area larger than the maximum cross-section of the ring, and is provided with an elastic positioning column, and the side has a chamfer or bevel structure to help the parts to fall into place accurately. The actuator of the sliding mechanism can rotate and is elastic, and is equipped with elastic positioning beads to facilitate the ring to rotate into place. In addition, a protective resistance band is provided to generate friction with the outer peripheral surface of the ring to ensure its correct rotation. The invention effectively improves assembly efficiency and product precision, reduces costs, and has good adaptability and stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of gas meter assembly technology. Specifically, it provides a positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line, which realizes fast and accurate feeding and positioning of the ring through a unique positioning and shifting mechanism design, improves assembly efficiency and product quality, and reduces production costs and maintenance requirements. Background Art

[0002] The most common gas meters on the market are diaphragm gas meters. During the assembly process, the interface part involves three main components: the upper shell 01, the joint 02 (as an external component) and the ring 03 (as an internal component). Figure 2 .

[0003] The upper shell 01 is designed with an air inlet and an air outlet, both of which have a flange 011 formed by stretching downward.

[0004] The joint 02 is the part connected to the external gas pipeline. During the assembly 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, thereby ensuring a tight fit between the joint 02 and the shell to prevent gas leakage.

[0005] The ring 03 is an inner part and is sleeved on the inner wall of the shell. 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 and simplifying the installation process.

[0006] The above connection methods mainly rely on the friction force generated by interference fit to resist torque. However, although interference fit can provide reliable fixation and good torsional resistance in some cases, its effect is not always ideal.

[0007] In order to improve the torque resistance of the connection, the inventor proposed a gas meter with a torque-enhancing structure in another application document submitted at the same time. The structure is provided with a limit engaging portion 11, a first matching portion 12 and a second matching portion 13 at the connection of the upper shell 01, the joint 02 and the ring 03, respectively. Figure 2 The limit engaging portion 11 is a concave structure at the edge of the shell; the first matching portion 12 is a protrusion on one side of the joint 02; and the second matching portion 13 is a groove on the ring 03. The three cooperate with each other, and the friction force of the interference fit and the mechanical interlocking of the convex and concave structures are used to greatly enhance the overall anti-rotation ability.

[0008] This enhanced torque structure not only increases the contact area by being distributed around the edge of the shell, but also places higher requirements on the precise alignment of each mating part to ensure that the interference fit and mechanical interlocking effects are fully utilized.

[0009] In summary, although the existing gas meter connection method has limitations in torque resistance, and the enhanced torque structure has been improved but has increased the requirements for assembly accuracy, we still urgently need a new type of equipment to accurately position key components to improve the overall performance of the product. Summary of the invention

[0010] In view of this, the present invention provides an accurate, efficient and reliable positioning device for automatically positioning parts such as rings in a gas meter assembly line, which greatly improves assembly efficiency and product quality while reducing production costs and maintenance requirements.

[0011] The technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention is implemented as follows: a positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line, comprising a positioning module and a drawing mechanism used in conjunction therewith, wherein the outer surface shape and size of the positioning module matches the internal space of the upper shell, and is used to accurately limit the position of the upper shell; the drawing mechanism is arranged on one side of the press-fitting station of the positioning module, and is used to draw the ring to the top of the press-fitting station for positioning. The advantage is that by providing a positioning module that matches the internal space of the upper shell, the positioning device can accurately limit the position of the upper shell, providing an accurate reference for subsequent press-fitting operations.

[0012] Preferably, the press-fitting station is a horizontal plane as a whole, the area of ​​the press-fitting station is larger than the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the ring, and the height of the ring falling to the press-fitting station is flush with the upper surface of the positioning module. The benefit is that the horizontal state and area suitability of the press-fitting station are ensured, so that the ring can be stably placed before press-fitting with a consistent height, which provides a guarantee for the stability and reliability of the press-fitting process.

[0013] Preferably, the press-fitting station is provided with a positioning assembly hole, in which an elastic positioning column is provided, and the side of the elastic positioning column is provided with a chamfer or a slope structure, and when the elastic positioning column is extended, the starting height of the chamfer or slope on the circumference is lower than the upper surface of the positioning assembly hole. The benefit lies in that the introduction of the elastic positioning column with a chamfer or slope structure facilitates the ring to smoothly enter the press-fitting position without being blocked, while ensuring the accuracy of positioning.

[0014] Preferably, the draw mechanism includes a rotatable and vertically elastic actuator, the toggle portion of the actuator adopts an arc structure, a cover plate is fixedly arranged on the upper side of the toggle portion, and an elastic positioning bead is arranged on the cover plate, and the position of the elastic positioning bead is such that when the ring is against the arc surface of the actuator and rotates, the elastic positioning bead can fall into the second matching portion on the ring. The advantage is that the draw mechanism adopts a rotatable and elastic actuator design, combined with the cover plate and the elastic positioning bead, so that the ring can fall into the matching portion accurately during the rotation process, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of assembly.

[0015] Preferably, a protective resistance band is provided on the actuator to generate friction with the outer peripheral surface of the ring during the shifting process, so as to cause the ring to rotate at a certain angle, so that the elastic positioning bead can reliably fall into the second matching part. The benefit is that by providing the protective resistance band to generate appropriate friction, the ring can be ensured to rotate correctly during the shifting process, thereby ensuring that the positioning bead can accurately fall into the matching part, thereby enhancing the practicality of the device.

[0016] Preferably, the ring is loaded from one side of the press-fitting station by means of a sliding method, and the outer peripheral wall of the ring first contacts the chamfer or inclined surface of the elastic positioning column, and the elastic positioning column is squeezed and contracted to make room for the ring to be correctly positioned at the press-fitting station. The benefit lies in that the loading method of sliding from the side of the press-fitting station and the contraction characteristics of the elastic positioning column make room for the ring to be positioned correctly, thereby optimizing the assembly operation process.

[0017] Preferably, the positioning module may include a variety of structural forms, one of which is a combination of a base and a mold core, and the mold core fits tightly with the inner curved surface of the upper shell to achieve precise positioning of the upper shell.

[0018] Preferably, the combination of the base and the mold core is not unique, and another structural form can be adopted, that is, using a plurality of adjustable positioning claws. The claw heads of these positioning claws can be adjusted according to the shape of the inner wall of the upper shell to ensure the stable fixation and precise positioning of the upper shell. The advantage is that the structural diversity of the positioning module (combination of the base and the mold core or a plurality of adjustable positioning claws) provides a variety of positioning options to adapt to different production requirements and upper shell designs, thereby increasing the adaptability and flexibility of the device.

[0019] Preferably, in order to achieve the coaxiality between the ring and the upper shell, the outer dimensions of the elastic positioning column are specially designed to match the inner hole diameter of the ring. This design ensures the accuracy of the position of the ring during the press-fitting process. The benefit is that the outer dimensions of the specially designed elastic positioning column accurately match the inner hole diameter of the ring, ensuring the coaxiality between the ring and the upper shell during the press-fitting process and improving the assembly quality.

[0020] Preferably, in order to improve the durability of the positioning assembly hole and maintain its dimensional accuracy for a long time, the inner wall of the positioning assembly hole adopts a special wear-resistant material or coating. This wear-resistant material or coating can effectively resist long-term wear and ensure that the positioning assembly hole always remains smooth and accurate during long-term use. The advantage is that the inner wall of the positioning assembly hole adopts a wear-resistant material or coating, which improves durability and long-term accuracy retention, reduces maintenance costs and downtime, and enhances the stability and economic benefits of the device.

[0021] Preferably, in order to achieve smooth transfer and accurate positioning of the ring during the transfer process, the protective resistance band is made of a material with a high friction coefficient. When this material with a high friction coefficient contacts the outer peripheral surface of the ring, it can provide sufficient friction so that the ring can be accurately rotated to a preset position, thereby achieving accurate positioning of the ring. The benefit is that the selection of the material with a high friction coefficient for the protective resistance band ensures the smoothness and accuracy of the ring during the transfer and positioning process, avoids assembly errors, and improves the overall operating efficiency and product qualification rate.

[0022] In summary, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0023] 1. Precise positioning: The positioning module that precisely matches the internal space of the upper shell is used to accurately limit the upper shell, providing a solid foundation for subsequent processes, thereby ensuring the correct position and coaxiality of each component during the assembly process.

[0024] 2. Efficiency improvement: The synergistic effect of the drawing mechanism and the positioning module simplifies the loading steps of parts such as rings, improves the degree of automation of the assembly process, speeds up the production rhythm, reduces manual intervention, and improves production efficiency.

[0025] 3. Elastic adaptability: The elastic positioning column with chamfered or beveled structure and the adjustable positioning claw increase the device's tolerance to part size, allowing parts of different specifications to be accurately assembled, thereby improving production flexibility.

[0026] 4. Durability and stability: The use of wear-resistant materials or coatings enhances the durability of positioning holes, reduces wear problems caused by long-term use, maintains long-term stable assembly accuracy, and reduces maintenance requirements and costs.

[0027] 5. Accuracy guarantee: The high friction coefficient protection band ensures smooth rotation and precise positioning of the ring during the shifting process, reducing assembly failures or defects caused by inaccurate positioning and improving product quality.

[0028] 6. Reduce production costs: The design of the entire positioning device takes into account easy operation and maintenance, reducing possible human errors, reducing dependence on highly skilled operators, and reducing training and labor costs.

[0029] 7. Quality consistency: The high consistency and repeatability of each assembly detail ensures the consistency and standardization between products, which is conducive to improving product reliability and brand image.

[0030] In summary, the positioning device brings substantial technical improvements to the automated assembly process of precision equipment such as gas meters, helping to achieve the goals of high efficiency, economy and quality control in the production process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 It is an exploded view of the upper shell and interface and other components of the gas meter mentioned in the background technology section, wherein a part of the upper shell is cut away;

[0033] Figure 3 It is a display view of an improved position of a gas meter with an enhanced torque structure mentioned in the background technology section;

[0034] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the overall structure of the actuator;

[0035] Figure 5 It is the overall structural perspective view of the positioning module;

[0036] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of point A in the middle.

[0037] Markings in the figure: upper shell -01, flange 011, joint -02, ring -03, limit locking part -11, first matching part -12, second matching part -13, channel -51, pull-out mechanism -52, actuator -521, cover plate -522, elastic positioning bead -523, protective resistance band -524, positioning module -71, press-fitting station -72, positioning assembly hole -73, elastic positioning column -74.

[0038] Specific technical solutions

[0039] A positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line is specifically used to accurately position the upper shell and the ring to ensure the stability and accuracy of subsequent press-fitting operations, greatly improving the efficiency and quality of gas meter assembly.

[0040] See all drawings, including:

[0041] 1. The shape and size of the outer surface is equal to or slightly smaller than the internal space of the upper shell 01, and a cavity is left inside for the installation of related components. In this way, after the upper shell 01 enters the positioning module 71, the position is limited, and the position of the limit clamping part 11 is also determined.

[0042] The following forms can be used:

[0043] (1) The positioning module 71 is a hollow structure that matches the internal shape of the upper shell 01. The upper shell 01 is inserted into it as a whole and is accurately positioned by the outer wall of the module.

[0044] (2) The positioning module 71 includes a base and a mold core that fits the inner curved surface of the upper shell 01. The upper shell 01 is mounted on the outer side of the mold core and is precisely positioned.

[0045] (3) The positioning module 71 is composed of a plurality of adjustable positioning claws, the claw heads of which respectively abut against different positions of the inner wall of the upper shell 01, thereby firmly fixing it in the center position.

[0046] 2. The upper surface of the positioning module 71 corresponds to the positions of the two interfaces in the upper shell 01, and there are two press-fitting stations 72 respectively. The press-fitting stations 72 are in a horizontal plane as a whole, and the plane size exceeds the maximum diameter of the corresponding ring 03. The height of the ring falling on the press-fitting station is flush with the upper surface of the positioning module 71, so as to ensure that the upper surface of the ring 03 is completely in contact with the inner top surface of the upper shell 01 after press-fitting.

[0047] In some specific embodiments, a plurality of ventilation holes may be provided on the surface of the press-fitting station 72, so that the air under the ring 03 can be discharged smoothly during the press-fitting process, thereby preventing the air bag effect from affecting the press-fitting quality.

[0048] In some specific embodiments, the surface of the press-fitting station 72 may be made of wear-resistant material or coating to ensure that the surface will not be worn out and the press-fitting accuracy will not be affected during long-term use.

[0049] 3. Each press-fitting station 72 is provided with a positioning assembly hole 73 coaxial with the corresponding interface in the housing 01 for locating the center of the ring 03, and each positioning assembly hole 73 is provided with an elastic positioning column 74. The outer size of the elastic positioning column 74 matches the inner hole diameter of the ring 03.

[0050] In some specific embodiments, the elastic positioning column 74 can adopt a similar structure to a tappet, and the column body is composed of a number of components that slide against each other, and the whole body maintains a certain degree of flexibility. When the ring 03 is pressed onto the top of the positioning column 74, the column body will produce a certain displacement, so that the ring 03 is accurately aligned with the center.

[0051] In some specific embodiments, the head of the elastic positioning column 74 can be designed to be a spherical or curved structure to reduce the contact stress concentration with the inner hole of the ring 03 and avoid local wear.

[0052] In some specific embodiments, the bottom of the elastic positioning column 74 can be connected to a telescopic device such as a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder. When the ring 03 is pressed down to a certain position, the positioning column 74 is actively retracted to avoid interference with the pressing process.

[0053] In some specific embodiments, the inner wall of the positioning assembly hole 73 may be made of a wear-resistant material to ensure that the sliding performance of the positioning column 74 is not affected by long-term use.

[0054] In some specific embodiments, the extension height of the elastic positioning column 74 is consistent with the height of the upper surface of the inner hole after the ring 03 is placed in the press-fitting station 72. At the same time, the elastic positioning column 74 is provided with a chamfer or inclined surface structure toward the center side of the positioning module 71.

[0055] When the elastic positioning column 74 is in the extended state, its side surface is provided with a chamfer or a slope structure, and the starting height of the chamfer or the slope on the peripheral surface is lower than the upper surface of the positioning assembly hole 73. The function of this design is:

[0056] When the ring 03 is loaded from the side of the press-fitting station 72 by sliding, the outer peripheral wall of the ring 03 will first contact the chamfer or slope of the elastic positioning column 74. Since the initial height of the chamfer / slope is low, the ring 03 will continue to push the elastic positioning column 74 downward and shrink it, thereby making room for the ring 03 to land correctly in the press-fitting station 72.

[0057] By adopting the side-sliding feeding method, the space arrangement of the pressing station 72 can be staggered, so that the transfer and positioning of the ring 03 can be achieved by adopting a relatively simple mechanism structure.

[0058] This layout achieves a reasonable division of the two links of feeding and pressing, simplifies the mechanism design, and ensures the accuracy and reliability of feeding and positioning of the ring 03. After the ring 03 is completely positioned at the pressing station 72, the elastic positioning column 74 will reset upward due to its own elasticity, and at this time its outer side surface is tightly fitted with the inner wall of the ring 03, achieving precise coaxial positioning.

[0059] This technical solution cleverly utilizes the flexibility of the elastic positioning column 74 itself, realizes the seamless connection between the two links of automatic feeding and precise positioning, and greatly simplifies the assembly process. At the same time, the design of the chamfer or bevel structure is also conducive to the reliability of the ring 03 feeding and avoids the occurrence of jamming. In general, it is an effective and easy-to-operate positioning method.

[0060] On one side of each press-fitting station 72, a channel 51 for feeding the ring 03 is provided. The upper end of the channel 51 is flush with the height of the press-fitting station 72 and is joined to form the same horizontal plane.

[0061] In addition to the channel 51, the component 50 also includes a sliding mechanism 52 which is arranged on the side between the channel 51 and the pressing station 72 and has elasticity in the vertical (Z-axis) direction.

[0062] The function of the pulling mechanism 52 is to pull the ring 03 pushed from the channel 51 to the pressing station 72.

[0063] The purpose of setting elasticity in the vertical direction is that the working part of the sliding mechanism 52 is located above the ring 03, while the landing height of the upper shell 01 is lower than that of the ring 03. This requires that after completing a sliding of the ring 03, the sliding mechanism 52 needs to be reset to the initial height in the vertical direction to avoid interfering with the upper shell 01.

[0064] The pulling mechanism 52 can adopt a retractable actuator such as a pneumatic cylinder or a servo electric push rod, and the end of the push rod is designed to be a push head that is adapted to the shape of the ring 03.

[0065] The gap between the push head and the channel 51, as well as the gap between the push head and the press-fitting station 72, must be strictly controlled to ensure that the ring 03 can pass smoothly without getting stuck.

[0066] After completing a sliding action, the sliding mechanism 52 needs to have a sufficient vertical return stroke to avoid interfering with the subsequent pressing process at the pressing station 72.

[0067] 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) located inside the positioning module 71 for driving the actuator 521 to move.

[0068] In order to clearly define the position of the positioning ring 03 and ensure that its respective mating parts are precisely matched with the position limiting engaging part 11 of the upper housing 01, the actuator 521 is designed as follows:

[0069] 1. The toggle part adopts an arc structure, which is convenient for fitting with the outer surface of the ring 03.

[0070] 2. A cover plate 522 is fixedly arranged on the upward side of the toggle part to limit the final displacement height of the ring 03 in the vertical direction.

[0071] 3. An elastic positioning bead 523 is provided on the cover plate 522. When the ring 03 is pressed against the arc surface and rotated along the arc surface, the elastic positioning bead 523 can accurately fall into the second matching part 13 on the ring 03 to play a positioning role.

[0072] 4. A protective resistance band 524 is provided to generate friction with the outer peripheral surface of the ring 03 during the pulling action. On the one hand, it plays a role in protecting the guide rail to prevent the ring 03 from shifting when it is transferred to the pressing station 72; on the other hand, the friction force will force the ring 03 to rotate a certain angle around the axis to help the elastic positioning bead 523 to accurately fall into the second matching part 13.

[0073] In some specific embodiments, the toggle portion of the arc-shaped structure is configured to have a sliding structure, that is, when the ring is carried to transfer the material, the friction or impact force generated by the contact between the ring and the protective resistance band 524 will be absorbed and buffered by the sliding structure. Such a design helps to reduce the wear of the ring and the protective resistance band during the assembly process, while improving the smoothness and stability of the assembly process. Through this sliding structure, the impact and friction during the assembly process can be effectively dispersed and reduced, thereby extending the service life of the assembly equipment and materials, and also improving the assembly efficiency and quality.

[0074] It should be noted that, in order to ensure that the elastic positioning beads 523 can reliably position the ring 03, the rotation angle of the ring 03 must be equal to or greater than the angular spacing between two adjacent second matching portions 13.

[0075] Through the above series of careful designs, the ring 03 is accurately positioned during the drawing and transfer process to the pressing station 72, providing a solid guarantee for the accuracy of the subsequent pressing process. At the same time, the reasonable gap setting between the components also minimizes the risk of transfer obstruction.

[0076] In general, this positioning device organically integrates the feeding, transfer and positioning links of ring 03, greatly improving the automation and intelligence level of the assembly line, and has significant practical value.

[0077] Although the present invention has been disclosed in conjunction with certain embodiments shown and described in detail, various modifications and improvements thereto will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having benefit of the disclosure herein. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention will not be limited by the foregoing examples, but will be understood in the broadest sense permitted by law.

[0078] All documents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Claims

1. A positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line, characterized in that: It comprises a positioning module (71) and a sliding mechanism (52) used in conjunction with the positioning module (71); the outer surface shape and size of the positioning module (71) match the internal space of the upper shell (01) and are used to accurately limit the position of the upper shell (01); the sliding mechanism (52) is arranged on one side of the pressing station (72) of the positioning module (71) and is used to slide the ring (03) to the top of the pressing station (72) for positioning; The pressing station (72) is a horizontal plane as a whole, the area of ​​the pressing station (72) is larger than the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the ring (03), and the height of the ring (03) falling to the pressing station (72) is flush with the upper surface of the positioning module (71); The press-fitting station (72) is provided with a positioning assembly hole (73), an elastic positioning column (74) is provided in the positioning assembly hole (73), and a chamfer or inclined surface structure is provided on the side of the elastic positioning column (74), and when the elastic positioning column (74) is in an extended state, the starting height of the chamfer or inclined surface on the circumference is lower than the upper surface of the positioning assembly hole (73); The drawing mechanism (52) comprises an actuator (521) which is rotatable and elastic in the vertical direction. The moving part of the actuator (521) adopts an arc structure. A cover plate (522) is fixedly arranged on the upper side of the moving part. An elastic positioning bead (523) is arranged on the cover plate (522). The position of the elastic positioning bead (523) allows the elastic positioning bead (523) to fall into the second matching part (13) on the ring (03) when the ring (03) is pressed against the arc surface of the actuator (521) and rotates. A protective stop band (524) is also provided on the actuator (521) for generating friction with the outer peripheral surface of the ring (03) during the shifting process, so as to cause the ring (03) to rotate at a certain angle, so that the elastic positioning bead (523) can reliably fall into the second matching portion (13); The protective stop band (524) is made of a material with a high friction coefficient, which can provide sufficient friction force to enable the ring (03) to accurately rotate to a preset position, thereby achieving precise positioning of the ring (03).

2. The positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ring (03) is loaded from one side of the press-fitting station (72) by means of a sliding motion. The outer peripheral wall of the ring (03) first contacts the chamfer or inclined surface of the elastic positioning column (74), and the elastic positioning column (74) is squeezed and contracted to make room for the ring (03) to be correctly positioned at the press-fitting station (72).

3. The positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that: The positioning module (71) includes a variety of structural forms, one of which is a combination of a base and a mold core, wherein the mold core is tightly fitted to the inner curved surface of the upper shell (01) to achieve precise positioning of the upper shell (01).

4. The positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line according to claim 3, characterized in that: The combination of the base and the mold core uses a plurality of adjustable positioning claws, the claw heads of which can be adjusted according to the shape of the inner wall of the upper shell (01), thereby ensuring the stable fixation and precise positioning of the upper shell (01).

5. The positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that: The outer dimensions of the elastic positioning column (74) are specially designed to match the inner hole diameter of the ring (03).

6. The positioning device for accurately positioning a ring in a gas meter assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall of the positioning assembly hole (73) is made of a special wear-resistant material or coating.

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