Connection device

Abstract

The application discloses a connecting device for connecting M first external devices and N second external devices, M is less than N, the connecting device comprises M transfer devices, N-M temporary storage devices arranged adjacent to the M transfer devices, and a trolley device arranged above the transfer devices and the temporary storage devices, each transfer device comprises a conveying mechanism, a transfer mechanism and a lifting mechanism, each temporary storage device comprises a lifting mechanism, a carrying mechanism, a conveying mechanism and a receiving and feeding mechanism, and the trolley device comprises a grabbing mechanism capable of moving between the transfer devices and the temporary storage devices. The connecting device can make products transfer and distribute between the M first external devices, the N second external devices and the N-M receiving and feeding mechanisms through cooperation of the M transfer devices, the N-M temporary storage devices and the trolley device. Since the products can be transferred to different external devices or temporarily stored in the receiving and feeding mechanisms through the connecting device, the products can be conveniently distributed according to the supply and demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of product allocation technology for different production lines, and specifically to a connecting device. Background Technology

[0002] In actual production and processing, products need to be processed separately in two processing machines. Currently, the capacities of these two machines are usually different. For example, the capacity of the first processing machine may be greater than that of the second, leading to a situation where supply exceeds demand; or the capacity of the first processing machine may be less than that of the second, resulting in a situation where supply falls short of demand. Both of these situations are caused by a mismatch in capacity between the two processing machines. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a device that can allocate products between the two processing machines based on supply and demand. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above, it is necessary to propose a connection device to facilitate the allocation of products according to supply and demand.

[0004] This application provides a connection device for connecting M first external devices and N second external devices, wherein M is less than N, and includes:

[0005] M transfer devices, each of which includes a conveying mechanism, a transfer mechanism, and a lifting mechanism. The two ends of the conveying mechanism are respectively used to connect to the first external device and the second external device. The conveying mechanism is used to transport products between the first external device and the second external device, or between the first external device and the transfer mechanism. The transfer mechanism is used to remove the products from the conveying mechanism and place them on the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the products upward.

[0006] NM temporary storage devices are arranged adjacent to M transfer devices. Each temporary storage device includes a lifting mechanism, a handling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a receiving / discharging mechanism. One end of the conveying mechanism is used to connect to the second external device, and the other end of the conveying mechanism is arranged adjacent to the receiving / discharging mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product downward. The handling mechanism is used to remove the product from the lifting mechanism and place it in the conveying mechanism. The conveying mechanism is used to transfer the product between the handling mechanism and the corresponding second external device, or between the handling mechanism and the receiving / discharging mechanism. The receiving / discharging mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism for receiving.

[0007] An overhead crane device is installed above the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The overhead crane device includes a gripping mechanism that can move between the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The gripping mechanism is used to move the product between the lifting mechanism and the hoisting mechanism.

[0008] In some embodiments, when the production capacity of the first external device is greater than that of the second external device, the connecting device may, through the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the first external device to the corresponding second external device; or, sequentially through the conveying mechanism, the transfer mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the handling mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the first external device to the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism; or, through the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the corresponding second external device.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the sum of the production capacities of the M first external devices is greater than the sum of the production capacities of the N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the products of the first external devices to the corresponding second external devices via the conveying mechanism, or sequentially conveys the products of the first external devices to the second external devices corresponding to the conveying mechanism and the receiving and dispensing mechanism via the conveying mechanism, the transfer mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the handling mechanism and the transmission mechanism.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the capacity of each first external device is greater than the capacity of each second external device, and the sum of the capacities of M first external devices is less than the sum of the capacities of N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the corresponding second external device through the conveying mechanism, or conveys the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism in sequence through the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism and the conveying mechanism.

[0011] In some embodiments, when the first external device, the second external device, and the receiving / dispatching mechanism satisfy the condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x, if x is less than 1 and greater than 0, then (NM) is 1; if x is greater than 1 and is an integer, then (NM) is x; if x is greater than 1 and is not an integer, then (NM) is the integer x rounded up. Wherein, A is the capacity of the first external device, B is the capacity of the second external device, and C is the storage capacity of the receiving / dispatching mechanism.

[0012] In some embodiments, each of the receiving and dispatching mechanisms includes a receiving and dispatching module and a temporary storage module. The receiving and dispatching module is disposed adjacent to the other end of the conveying mechanism, and the temporary storage module is disposed adjacent to the receiving and dispatching module. The receiving and dispatching module is used to transfer the product between the conveying mechanism and the temporary storage module.

[0013] In some embodiments, the temporary storage module includes a lifting component, a support plate, a first clamping component, and a second clamping component. The support plate is connected to the lifting component. The support plate, the first clamping component, and the second clamping component are arranged sequentially from bottom to top. The support plate is used to support a material tray, and the material tray is used to support the product. The lifting component drives the support plate and the material tray to move upward to the first clamping component or the second clamping component. Both the first clamping component and the second clamping component are used to clamp the material tray.

[0014] In some embodiments, the temporary storage module further includes a sliding component, which is slidably connected to the lifting component. The support plate is disposed on the sliding component, and the sliding component drives the support plate to move relative to the lifting component.

[0015] This application embodiment also provides a connection device for connecting M first external devices and N second external devices, wherein M is less than N, including:

[0016] M transfer devices, each of which includes a conveying mechanism, a transfer mechanism, and a lifting mechanism. The two ends of the conveying mechanism are respectively used to connect to the first external device and the second external device. The conveying mechanism is used to transport products between the second external device and the first external device, or between the second external device and the transfer mechanism. The transfer mechanism is used to remove the product from the lifting mechanism and place it on the conveying mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product downward.

[0017] NM temporary storage devices are arranged adjacent to M transfer devices. Each temporary storage device includes a lifting mechanism, a handling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a receiving / discharging mechanism. One end of the conveying mechanism is used to connect to the second external device, and the other end of the conveying mechanism is arranged adjacent to the receiving / discharging mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product upward. The handling mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism and place it on the lifting mechanism. The conveying mechanism is used to convey the product between the corresponding second external device and the handling mechanism, or between the corresponding second external device and the receiving / discharging mechanism. The receiving / discharging mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism for receiving.

[0018] An overhead crane device is installed above the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The overhead crane device includes a gripping mechanism that can move between the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The gripping mechanism is used to move the product between the lifting mechanism and the hoisting mechanism.

[0019] In some embodiments, when the sum of the production capacities of the M first external devices is greater than the sum of the production capacities of the N second external devices, the connecting device may, via the conveying mechanism, transport the products of the second external devices corresponding to the conveying mechanism to the first external devices, or, via the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, transport the products of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the first external devices, or, via the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, transport the products of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the first external devices.

[0020] In some embodiments, when the capacity of each first external device is greater than the capacity of each second external device, and the sum of the capacities of M first external devices is less than the sum of the capacities of N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the product of the second external device to the first external device through the conveying mechanism; or, it conveys the product of the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism to the first external device in sequence through the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism; or, it conveys the product corresponding to the second external device to the receiving and dispatching mechanism for receiving through the conveying mechanism.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first external device, the second external device, and the receiving / dispatching mechanism satisfy the condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x. If x is less than 1 and greater than 0, then (NM) is 1; if x is greater than 1 and is an integer, then (NM) is x; if x is greater than 1 and is not an integer, then (NM) is the integer x rounded up. Wherein, A is the capacity of the first external device, B is the capacity of the second external device, and C is the storage capacity of the receiving / dispatching mechanism.

[0022] The connecting device in this embodiment, through the cooperation of M transfer devices, NM temporary storage devices, and an overhead crane, enables products to be transferred and allocated among M first external devices, N second external devices, and NM receiving and dispatching mechanisms. Since products can be transferred to different external devices or temporarily stored in the receiving and dispatching mechanisms via the connecting device, product supply can be conveniently allocated according to supply and demand. Furthermore, the connecting device can replace manual labor for loading, unloading, and receiving between the first external devices, second external devices, and receiving and dispatching mechanisms, reducing labor intensity and labor costs. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the connection devices provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the first embodiment of this application when transferring products between two first external devices and three second external devices.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the second embodiment of this application when transferring products between a first external device and two second external devices.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the third embodiment of this application when transferring products between three first external devices and four second external devices.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the fourth embodiment of this application when transferring products between three first external devices and five second external devices.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the fifth embodiment of this application when transferring products between two first external devices and three second external devices.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the sixth embodiment of this application when transferring products between a first external device and two second external devices.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the connection device provided in the seventh embodiment of this application when transferring products between three first external devices and five second external devices.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connection device provided in the first embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 10 yes Figure 9The diagram shows the structure of the transfer cabinet, omitting part of the transfer device for the connected equipment.

[0033] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the temporary storage cabinet, omitting part of the temporary storage device for the connected equipment.

[0034] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the receiving and dispatching mechanism of the temporary storage device shown.

[0035] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The diagram shows the structure of the temporary storage module of the receiving and dispatching mechanism.

[0036] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 The diagram shows the structure of the overhead crane cabinet, omitting part of the crane cabinet itself.

[0037] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the gripping mechanism of the overhead crane device shown.

[0038] Explanation of main component symbols

[0039] Connecting devices 1000, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 Transfer device 10

[0040] Conveying mechanism 11

[0041] Transfer mechanism 12

[0042] Transfer rack 121

[0043] Transfer component 122

[0044] Lifting mechanism 13

[0045] Lifting Linear Module 131

[0046] Lifting support 132

[0047] Transfer cabinet 14

[0048] Temporary storage device 20

[0049] Lifting mechanism 21

[0050] Lifting linear module 211

[0051] Lifting bearing seat 212

[0052] Handling organization 22

[0053] Handling rack 221

[0054] Transport component 222

[0055] Transmission mechanism 23

[0056] Material receiving and dispatching mechanism 24

[0057] Transceiver Module 241

[0058] Temporary module 242

[0059] Lifting component 2421

[0060] Bearing plate 2422

[0061] First clamping component 2423

[0062] Second clamping component 2424

[0063] First limiting post 2425

[0064] Second limiting post 2426

[0065] Sliding component 2427

[0066] Temporary storage cabinet 25

[0067] Overhead crane device 30

[0068] Crawling mechanism 31

[0069] Grab bracket 311

[0070] Capture Linear Module 312

[0071] Grasping and adsorption component 313

[0072] overhead crane mechanism 32

[0073] overhead crane cabinet 33

[0074] 34 overhead crane outriggers

[0075] Product 1

[0076] First external device 2000, 2

[0077] Second external device 3000, 3

[0078] Jig 4

[0079] 5 trays Detailed Implementation

[0080] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0081] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms indicating orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this application, it should be noted that "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0082] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the two components; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0083] The following will describe some embodiments of this application in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0084] Please see Figure 1 This application provides a connection device 1000. The connection device 1000 is configured between a pre-processing process and a post-processing process. The pre-processing process includes M first external devices 2000, and the post-processing process includes N second external devices 3000, where M is less than N. That is, the connection device 1000 is used to interface with the M first external devices 2000 and the N second external devices 3000. The connection device 1000 includes M transfer devices 10, NM temporary storage devices 20, and a crane device 30, wherein the number of crane devices 30 can be one.

[0085] The connecting device 1000 of this application enables products to be transferred and allocated among M first external devices 2000 and N second external devices 3000, facilitating the allocation of product supply according to demand. Furthermore, the connecting device 1000 can replace manual labor in loading, unloading, and collecting materials between the first external devices 2000 and the second external devices 3000, reducing labor intensity and labor costs.

[0086] Please see Figure 2 The first embodiment of this application provides a connection device 100. The pre-processing process connected to the connection device 100 in this embodiment includes two first external devices 2, and the post-processing process connected to it includes three second external devices 3. It can be understood that the connection device 100 is connected to a two-to-three processing process. That is, in this embodiment, M is 2 and N is 3. The product 1 is first processed by the first external device 2 and then processed by the second external device 3. The capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than the capacity of the second external device 3.

[0087] In this embodiment, two first external devices 2 are located on one side of the connecting device 100, and three second external devices 3 are located on the other side of the connecting device 100. In other embodiments, two first external devices 2 and one of the second external devices 3 may be located on one side of the connecting device 100, and the other two second external devices 3 may be located on the other side of the connecting device 100. Alternatively, one first external device 2 and one of the second external devices 3 may be located on one side of the connecting device 100, and the other first external device 2 and the other two second external devices 3 may be located on the other side of the connecting device 100.

[0088] Please see Figure 3 The second embodiment of this application provides a connection device 200. The structure of the connection device 200 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 100 provided in the first embodiment. The difference is that the connection device 200 in this embodiment is connected to a first external device 2 in the pre-processing process and to two second external devices 3 in the post-processing process. That is, in this embodiment, M is 1 and N is 2. It can be understood that the connection device 200 is connected to a one-to-two processing process, and the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than that of the second external device 3.

[0089] Please see Figure 4The third embodiment of this application provides a connection device 300. The structure of the connection device 300 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 100 provided in the first embodiment. The difference is that the pre-processing process connected to the connection device 300 in this embodiment includes three first external devices 2, and the post-processing process connected to it includes four second external devices 3. That is, in this embodiment, M is 3 and N is 4. It can be understood that the connection device 300 is connected to a three-to-four processing process, and the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than the capacity of the second external device 3.

[0090] Please see Figure 5 The fourth embodiment of this application provides a connection device 400. The structure of the connection device 400 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 100 provided in the first embodiment. The difference is that the pre-processing process connected to the connection device 400 in this embodiment includes three first external devices 2, and the post-processing process connected to it includes five second external devices 3. That is, in this embodiment, M is 3 and N is 5. It can be understood that the connection device 400 is connected to a three-to-five processing process, and the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than the capacity of the second external device 3.

[0091] Please see Figure 6 The fifth embodiment of this application provides a connection device 500. The structure of the connection device 500 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 100 provided in the first embodiment. The difference is that in the pre-processing process and post-processing process connected to the connection device 500 in this embodiment, the pre-processing process includes three second external devices 3 and the post-processing process includes two first external devices 2. That is, in this embodiment, M is 2 and N is 3. The product 1 is first processed by the second external devices 3 and then processed by the first external devices 2. It can be understood that the connection device 500 is connected to the three-to-two processing process. The capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than the capacity of the second external device 3.

[0092] Please see Figure 7 The sixth embodiment of this application provides a connection device 600. The structure of the connection device 600 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 500 provided in the fifth embodiment. The difference is that the connection device 600 in this embodiment is connected to a pre-processing process including two second external devices 3, and the connection to a post-processing process including a first external device 2. That is, in this embodiment, M is 1 and N is 2. Product 1 is first processed by the second external device 3 and then processed by the first external device 2. It can be understood that the connection device 600 is connected to a two-to-one processing process, and the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than that of the second external device 3.

[0093] Please see Figure 8The seventh embodiment of this application provides a connection device 700. The structure of the connection device 700 provided in this embodiment is generally similar to that of the connection device 500 provided in the fifth embodiment. The difference is that the connection device 700 in this embodiment is connected to a pre-processing process including five second external devices 3 and a post-processing process including three first external devices 2. That is, in this embodiment, M is 3 and N is 5. Product 1 is first processed by the second external devices 3 and then processed by the first external devices 2. It can be understood that the connection device 700 is connected to a five-to-three processing process.

[0094] Specifically, the connection device 1000 of this application includes M transfer devices 10, NM temporary storage devices 20, and a crane device 30. The M transfer devices 10 are spaced apart, and the two ends of each transfer device 10 are respectively connected to a first external device 2000 and a second external device 3000. The NM temporary storage devices 20 are arranged between the transfer devices 10, and one end of each NM temporary storage device 20 is connected to the second external device 3000. The crane device 30 is erected above the M transfer devices 10 and the NM temporary storage devices 20. Each intermediate loading device 10 is used to transport products between the first external equipment 2000 and the second external equipment 3000, or to transport products between the first external equipment 2000 and the temporary storage device 20 via the overhead crane device 30. Each temporary storage device 20 is used to collect products transported by the intermediate loading device 10 from the first external equipment 2000 via the overhead crane device 30, or to transfer products transported by the intermediate loading device 10 from the first external equipment 2000 via the overhead crane device 30 to the corresponding second external equipment 3000, or to directly transfer products to the second external equipment 3000, or to transfer products to the intermediate loading device 10 via the overhead crane device 30 and then to the corresponding second external equipment 3000 via the intermediate loading device 10. Through the cooperation of the M intermediate loading devices 10, NM temporary storage devices 20 and the overhead crane device 30 of the above-mentioned connecting equipment 1000, products can be transferred and allocated between the M first external equipments 2000 and N second external equipments 3000 according to supply and demand.

[0095] The following describes the transfer device 10, the temporary storage device 20 and the overhead crane device 30 in detail, taking the connection device 100 provided in the first embodiment as an example. It should be understood that this is not a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0096] See also Figure 9In this embodiment, the connecting device 100 includes two transfer devices 10, a temporary storage device 20, and a crane device 30. The two transfer devices 10 are spaced apart, with each transfer device 10's two ends connected to a first external device 2 and a second external device 3, respectively. The temporary storage device 20 is positioned between the two transfer devices 10, with one end connected to the second external device 3. The crane device 30 is erected above the two transfer devices 10 and the temporary storage device 20. When the capacity of the first external device 2 matches the capacity of the corresponding second external device 3, product 1 can be directly transferred from the first external device 2 to the corresponding second external device 3 via the transfer devices 10. When the capacity of the first external device 2 exceeds the capacity of the corresponding second external device 3, not only is it necessary to directly transfer product 1 from the first external device 2 to the corresponding second external device 3 via the transfer devices 10, but it is also necessary to use the crane device 30 to transfer the excess product 1 from the first external device 2 to the temporary storage device 20. When product 1 is transferred to the temporary storage device 20, if the corresponding second external device 3 is in a processing state, the temporary storage device 20 will receive product 1. If the corresponding second external device 3 is not in a processing state but has a processing requirement, the temporary storage device 20 will transfer product 1 to the corresponding second external device 3. When the first external device 2 is not in a processing state and cannot provide product 1, the temporarily stored product 1 can also be directly supplied to the corresponding second external device 3 through the temporary storage device 20, or the temporarily stored product 1 can be supplied to the transfer device 10 through the overhead crane device 30, and then supplied to the corresponding second external device 3 through the transfer device 10.

[0097] Please see Figure 10 Each transfer device 10 includes a conveying mechanism 11, a transfer mechanism 12, and a lifting mechanism 13. The two ends of the conveying mechanism 11 are respectively used to connect to a first external device 2 and a second external device 3. The conveying mechanism 11 is used to convey product 1 between the first external device 2 and the transfer mechanism 12, or between the first external device 2 and the second external device 3. The transfer mechanism 12 is used to remove product 1 from the conveying mechanism 11 and place it in the lifting mechanism 13. The lifting mechanism 13 is used to move product 1 upwards. In this embodiment, each transfer device 10 also includes a transfer cabinet 14, in which the conveying mechanism 11, the transfer mechanism 12, and the lifting mechanism 13 are all disposed. The specific structure of the transfer cabinet 14 can be set according to actual conditions; this embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0098] Specifically, the conveying mechanism 11 can be a linear motion module. The conveying mechanism 11 is equipped with a fixture 4 for receiving the product 1. The conveying mechanism 11 drives the fixture 4 and the product 1 to move, thereby conveying the product 1 from the first external device 2 to the transfer mechanism 12 or the second external device 3. In this embodiment, each transfer device 10 includes two conveying mechanisms 11 arranged side-by-side. Both conveying mechanisms 11 are mounted on the transfer cabinet 14. The transfer mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 13 are both located between the two conveying mechanisms 11. The transfer mechanism 12 is used to transfer the product 1 between the two conveying mechanisms 11 and the lifting mechanism 13.

[0099] The transfer mechanism 12 includes a transfer frame 121 disposed in the transfer cabinet 14 and two transfer components 122 spaced apart from each other on the transfer frame 121. Both transfer components 122 are slidably disposed on the transfer frame 121. Each transfer component 122 corresponds one-to-one with one of the two conveying mechanisms 11. Each transfer component 122 can move between the lifting mechanism 13 and the corresponding conveying mechanism 11. The transfer component 122 is used to transfer product 1 between the lifting mechanism 13 and the corresponding conveying mechanism 11. In this embodiment, the transfer frame 121 can generally be composed of a gantry frame, a dual-drive linear module, etc. The dual-drive linear module can drive the two transfer components 122 to move independently. Each transfer component 122 can generally be composed of a cylinder, a suction nozzle, etc. The cylinder drives the suction nozzle to move up and down, and the suction nozzle is used to adsorb product 1. Understandably, in other embodiments, the transfer frame 121 may be generally composed of a gantry or the like, and each transfer assembly 122 may be generally composed of a functional mechanism, cylinder, nozzle, or the like that can slide on the transfer frame 121. This will not be described in detail in the embodiments of this application.

[0100] The lifting mechanism 13 includes a lifting linear module 131 disposed in the transfer cabinet 14 and a lifting support 132 disposed in the lifting linear module 131. The lifting support 132 is used to support the product 1. In this embodiment, the lifting linear module 131 drives the lifting support 132 and the product 1 to move up or down.

[0101] In this embodiment, during actual use, the transfer device 10 involves the first external device 2 placing product 1 on the conveying mechanism 11. The conveying mechanism 11 then transports product 1 to the position corresponding to the transfer mechanism 12 or the position corresponding to the second external device 3, depending on the actual production situation. The second external device 3 then removes product 1 from the conveying mechanism 11 for processing. Furthermore, when the capacity of the first external device 2 exceeds the capacity of the second external device 3, the conveying mechanism 11 also needs to transport the excess product 1 from the first external device 2 to the position corresponding to the transfer mechanism 12. The transfer mechanism 12 removes product 1 from the conveying mechanism 11 and places it on the lifting mechanism 13. The lifting mechanism 13 moves product 1 upwards so that it can be removed by the overhead crane device 30 and placed in the temporary storage device 20. The temporary storage device 20 then temporarily stores or transfers product 1 to the corresponding second external device 3, depending on the actual situation. Understandably, in some embodiments, when the first external device 2 is not in a processing state and cannot provide the required product 1 to the second external device 3, the temporary storage device 20 can also transfer the temporarily stored product 1 to the second external device 3 corresponding to the transfer device 10 according to the needs of the second external device 3. Specifically, the temporary storage device 20 transfers the product 1 to the overhead crane device 30, the lifting mechanism 13 receives the product 1 transferred from the temporary storage device 20 by the overhead crane device 30, the lifting mechanism 13 drives the product 1 to move down, the transfer mechanism 12 removes the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 13 and places it on the corresponding conveying mechanism 11, and the conveying mechanism 11 conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the second external device 3 so that the corresponding second external device 3 can remove the product 1 from the conveying mechanism 11 for processing.

[0102] Please see Figure 11 The temporary storage device 20 includes a lifting mechanism 21, a handling mechanism 22, a conveying mechanism 23, and a receiving / discharging mechanism 24. One end of the conveying mechanism 23 is used to connect to a second external device 3, and the other end of the conveying mechanism 23 is adjacent to the receiving / discharging mechanism 24. The lifting mechanism 21 is used to move the product 1 downward. The handling mechanism 22 is used to remove the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 21 and place it in the conveying mechanism 23. The conveying mechanism 23 is used to convey the product 1 between the handling mechanism 22 and the second external device 3, or between the handling mechanism 22 and the receiving / discharging mechanism 24. The receiving / discharging mechanism 24 is used to remove the product 1 from the conveying mechanism 23 for receiving. In this embodiment, the conveying mechanism 23 is a linear module. The temporary storage device 20 also includes a temporary storage cabinet 25, in which the lifting mechanism 21, handling mechanism 22, conveying mechanism 23, and receiving / discharging mechanism 24 are all disposed. The specific structure of the temporary storage cabinet 25 can be set according to actual conditions, and this embodiment does not specifically limit it.

[0103] Specifically, the lifting mechanism 21 includes a lifting linear module 211 disposed on the temporary storage cabinet 25 and a lifting support 212 disposed on the lifting linear module 211. The lifting support 212 is used to support the product 1. In this embodiment, the lifting linear module 211 drives the lifting support 212 and the product 1 to move up or down.

[0104] The transport mechanism 22 includes a transport frame 221 disposed on the temporary storage device 20 and located on one side of the lifting mechanism 21, and a transport component 222 slidably disposed on the transport frame 221. The transport component 222 is used to move and pick up the product 1 between the lifting mechanism 21 and the conveying mechanism 23. In this embodiment, the transport frame 221 can generally be composed of a gantry frame, a drive linear module, etc. The drive linear module can drive the transport component 222 to move. The transport component 222 can generally be composed of a cylinder, a suction nozzle, etc. The cylinder drives the suction nozzle to move up and down, and the suction nozzle is used to absorb the product 1. It is understood that in other embodiments, the transport frame 221 can generally be composed of a gantry frame, etc., and the transport component 222 can generally be composed of a functional mechanism that can slide on the transport frame 221, a cylinder, a suction nozzle, etc., which will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0105] Please refer to the above. Figure 12 and Figure 13 The receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 includes a receiving and dispatching module 241 and a temporary storage module 242. The receiving and dispatching module 241 is disposed in the temporary storage cabinet 25 and adjacent to the other end of the conveying mechanism 23. The receiving and dispatching module 241 is disposed in parallel with the handling mechanism 22. The temporary storage module 242 is disposed adjacent to the receiving and dispatching module 241. The receiving and dispatching module 241 is used to move product 1 between the conveying mechanism 23 and the temporary storage module 242. It can be understood that the receiving and dispatching module 241 is used to move product 1 from the conveying mechanism 23 and place it in the temporary storage module 242, or the receiving and dispatching module 241 is used to move product 1 from the temporary storage module 242 and place it in the conveying mechanism 23. The receiving module 241 can be roughly composed of a gantry, a linear module, a cylinder, and a nozzle. In one embodiment, the linear module drives the cylinder and the nozzle to move linearly so that the cylinder and the nozzle are positioned above the product 1 to be transferred on the conveying mechanism 23. The cylinder drives the nozzle to move down so that the nozzle can absorb the product 1. After the nozzle absorbs the product 1, the cylinder drives the nozzle to move up and moves it above the temporary storage module 242 under the drive of the linear module, thereby placing the product 1 on the temporary storage module 242.

[0106] The temporary storage module 242 includes a lifting assembly 2421, a support plate 2422, a first clamping assembly 2423, and a second clamping assembly 2424. The lifting assembly 2421 is mounted on the temporary storage cabinet 25. The support plate 2422 is connected to the lifting assembly 2421 to move up or down under the action of the lifting assembly 2421. The support plate 2422, the first clamping assembly 2423, and the second clamping assembly 2424 are arranged alternately from bottom to top. 422 is used to support the tray 5, which supports multiple products 1. The lifting component 2421 drives the support plate 2422 and the tray 5 upward to the first clamping component 2423 or the second clamping component 2424. Both the first clamping component 2423 and the second clamping component 2424 are used to clamp the tray 5. Specifically, the first clamping component 2423 is used to clamp an empty tray 5, and the second clamping component 2424 is used to clamp a tray 5 filled with products 1. The first clamping component 2423 and the second clamping component 2424 can be generally composed of multiple cylinders and multiple clamping parts. The multiple cylinders drive the corresponding clamping parts to move toward the tray 5 to clamp the tray 5.

[0107] In one specific embodiment, a plurality of empty material trays 5 are placed on the support plate 2422. The lifting component 2421 moves the support plate 2422 and the plurality of empty material trays 5 upward to the first clamping component 2423. The first clamping component 2423 clamps the uppermost empty material tray 5. The lifting component 2421 moves the support plate 2422 and the other empty material trays 5 downward to reset. The transceiver module 241 places the product 1 into the empty material tray 5 clamped by the first clamping component 2423. When the empty material tray 5 clamped by the first clamping component 2423 is full of product 1, the lifting component 2421 moves the support plate 2422 and the other empty material trays 5 upward and supports the full product tray. The first clamping component 2423 releases the tray 5 filled with product 1. The lifting component 2421 moves the support plate 2422, other empty trays 5 and the tray 5 filled with product 1 upward to the second clamping component 2424. The second clamping component 2424 clamps the tray 5 filled with product 1 for receiving. After the second clamping component 2424 clamps the tray 5 filled with product 1, the lifting component 2421 moves the support plate 2422 and other empty trays 5 downward to the first clamping component 2423. The first clamping component 2423 clamps the uppermost empty tray 5 again to continue receiving the product 1 moved by the receiving and dispatching module 241.

[0108] In another specific embodiment, when the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 needs to supply product 1, the lifting component 2421 drives the bearing plate 2422 and the empty tray 5 to move up to the second clamping component 2424 and press against the tray 5 filled with product 1 held by the second clamping component 2424. The second clamping component 2424 releases the tray 5 filled with product 1 that it is currently clamping. The lifting component 2421 drives the bearing plate 2422, the empty tray 5 and the tray 5 filled with product 1 that it is currently pressing down to move down. The second clamping component 2424 then clamps the tray 5 filled with product 1 at the bottom layer again. When the lifting component 2421 drives the bearing plate 2422, the empty tray 5 and the tray 5 filled with product 1 to move down to the first clamping component 2423, the first clamping component 2423 clamps the tray 5 filled with product 1 so that the receiving and dispatching module 241 can remove product 1 from the tray 5.

[0109] In this embodiment, to limit the movement of multiple trays 5, the temporary storage module 242 further includes multiple first limiting posts 2425 and multiple second limiting posts 2426. The multiple first limiting posts 2425 are disposed on the side of the first clamping assembly 2423 opposite to the second clamping assembly 2424 and distributed according to the outline of the trays 5. The multiple second limiting posts 2426 are disposed on the side of the second clamping assembly 2424 opposite to the first clamping assembly 2423 and distributed according to the outline of the trays 5. The multiple first limiting posts 2425 and the multiple second limiting posts 2426 are used to enclose the trays 5 to limit their movement. Thus, by setting the aforementioned first limiting posts 2425 and second limiting posts 2426, the movement of the trays 5 is achieved.

[0110] In this embodiment, for the purpose of picking up and placing the material tray 5, the temporary storage module 242 also includes a sliding component 2427. The sliding component 2427 is slidably connected to the lifting component 2421, and the support plate 2422 is disposed on the sliding component 2427. The sliding component 2427 drives the support plate 2422 to move relative to the lifting component 2421. The sliding component 2427 can generally be composed of a first plate and a second plate, etc. The first plate is disposed on the lifting component 2421, and the second plate is slidably connected to the first plate via a slide rail slider structure. The support plate 2422 is disposed on the second plate. When it is necessary to pick up or place the material tray 5, the material tray 5 on the support plate 2422 can be removed or placed onto the support plate 2422 by pulling out the second plate and the support plate 2422. It can be understood that the material tray 5 picked up or placed here can be an empty material tray 5 or a material tray 5 full of products 1, which can be set according to actual production needs. Understandably, the support plate 2422 can also be an integral structure with the second plate of the sliding assembly 2427.

[0111] In this embodiment, when the temporary storage device 20 is actually used, the lifting mechanism 21 receives the product 1 transferred from the transfer device 10 by the overhead crane device 30 and moves it downwards. The transport mechanism 22 removes the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 21 and places it in the conveying mechanism 23. The conveying mechanism 23 conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the corresponding second external device 3 according to the processing requirements of the corresponding second external device 3, so that the corresponding second external device 3 removes the product 1 from the conveying mechanism 23 for processing. Alternatively, when the corresponding second external device 3 does not require the product 1, the conveying mechanism 23 conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the receiving module 241. The receiving module 241 removes the product 1 from the conveying mechanism 23 and places it in the material tray 5 clamped by the first clamping component 2423 of the temporary storage module 242 for receiving.

[0112] Understandably, in some embodiments, when the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 has processing needs and the first external device 2 cannot provide the required transit product 1 to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 in a timely manner, the transceiver module 241 can also remove the product 1 from the tray 5 held by the first clamping component 2423 of the temporary storage module 242 and place it on the conveying mechanism 23. The conveying mechanism 23 then conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23, so that the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23... 3. The product 1 is removed from the conveying mechanism 23 for processing. Alternatively, when the first external device 2 cannot provide the required product 1 to the corresponding second external device 3 in a timely manner, the conveying mechanism 23 conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the handling mechanism 22. The handling mechanism 22 removes the product 1 from the conveying mechanism 23 and places it on the lifting mechanism 21. The lifting mechanism 21 moves the product 1 upward so that it can be removed by the overhead crane device 30 and placed on the lifting mechanism 13 of the transfer device 10, thereby allowing the product 1 to be processed by the second external device 3 corresponding to the transfer device 10.

[0113] Please refer to the above. Figure 14 and Figure 15The overhead crane device 30 includes a gripping mechanism 31 movable between the temporary storage device 20 and any of the transfer devices 10. The gripping mechanism 31 is used to move product 1 between the lifting mechanism 13 and the hoisting mechanism 21. Specifically, the overhead crane device 30 includes two overhead crane mechanisms 32, one of which is mounted above the temporary storage device 20 and one of the transfer devices 10, and the other is mounted above the temporary storage device 20 and the other transfer device 10. There are two gripping mechanisms 31, each corresponding to one of the two overhead crane mechanisms 32. The overhead crane mechanisms 32 are used to drive the corresponding gripping mechanism 31 to move between the temporary storage device 20 and the corresponding transfer device 10. The overhead crane device 30 also includes an overhead crane cabinet 33 and overhead crane legs 34. The overhead crane mechanisms 32 can be linear modules, and both overhead crane mechanisms 32 are set in the overhead crane cabinet 33. There are five overhead crane legs 34, one of which is set in the temporary storage cabinet 25 (see reference). Figure 11 The other four crane outriggers 34 are positioned in pairs on the two transfer cabinets 14 (please refer to the relevant documentation). Figure 10 The overhead crane cabinet 33 is mounted on five overhead crane legs 34.

[0114] In this embodiment, the gripping mechanism 31 includes a gripping bracket 311, a gripping linear module 312, and a gripping adsorption assembly 313. The gripping bracket 311 is connected to the overhead crane mechanism 32. The gripping linear module 312 can be a cylinder and is mounted on the gripping bracket 311. The gripping adsorption assembly 313 is composed of multiple suction nozzles. The gripping adsorption assembly 313 is connected to the gripping linear module 312 to move up and down under the drive of the gripping linear module 312, so that the gripping adsorption assembly 313 adsorbs and transfers product 1.

[0115] In this embodiment, when the overhead crane device 30 is in actual use, and it is necessary to transport the excess production capacity of the first external device 2 of the product 1 to the temporary storage device 20, the overhead crane mechanism 32 drives the gripping mechanism 31 to move above the lifting mechanism 13 of the transfer device 10. The gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move down so that the gripping adsorption component 313 adsorbs the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 13. After the gripping adsorption component 313 adsorbs the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 13, the gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move up. The overhead crane mechanism 32 drives the gripping mechanism 31 and the product 1 to move above the lifting mechanism 21. The gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move down so that the gripping adsorption component 313 places the adsorbed product 1 on the lifting mechanism 21 of the temporary storage device 20, so that the product 1 is transported to the temporary storage device 20.

[0116] Understandably, in some embodiments, when it is necessary to transport the product 1 of the temporary storage device 20 to the second external device 3 corresponding to the transfer device 10, the overhead crane mechanism 32 drives the gripping mechanism 31 to move above the lifting mechanism 21 of the temporary storage device 20, and the gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move down so that the gripping adsorption component 313 adsorbs the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 21. After the gripping adsorption component 313 adsorbs the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move up, and the overhead crane mechanism 32 drives the gripping mechanism 31 and the product 1 to move above the lifting mechanism 13 of the transfer device 10. The gripping linear module 312 drives the gripping adsorption component 313 to move down so that the gripping adsorption component 313 places the adsorbed product 1 on the lifting mechanism 13. The transfer mechanism 12 moves the product 1 from the lifting mechanism 13 to the conveying mechanism 11, and the conveying mechanism 11 conveys the product 1 to the position corresponding to the second external device 3.

[0117] Please refer to the above. Figure 2 In one specific embodiment, the connecting device 100 is used when the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than the capacity of the second external device 3, and when product 1 is processed by the first external device 2 first and then by the second external device 3. This can be understood as the connecting device 100 being connected in a two-to-three processing step. In this case, when the first external device 2 is processing product 1 normally, the product 1 from the first external device 2 is first transported to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 for processing via the conveying mechanism 11. When the capacity of the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 is at full capacity and cannot meet the capacity of the first external device 2, the connecting device 100 is used in a two-to-three processing step. At that time, the products are sequentially conveyed to the conveying mechanism 23 via the conveying mechanism 11, transfer mechanism 12, lifting mechanism 13, gripping mechanism 31, lifting mechanism 21, and handling mechanism 22. The conveying mechanism 23 first transfers the excess product 1 from the first external equipment 2 to the second external equipment 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 for processing. If the capacity of the second external equipment 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 is at full capacity and the capacity of the second external equipment 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 is at full capacity, and the capacity of the first external equipment 2 cannot be met, the conveying mechanism 23 transfers the excess product 1 from the first external equipment 2 to the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 for receiving (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 (The direction of the turn is roughly indicated by the solid arrow).

[0118] In this embodiment, the first external device 2, the second external device 3, and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (2*A-2*B) / (B+C)=0.5, where A is the capacity of the first external device 2, B is the capacity of the second external device 3, and C is the storage capacity of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24. Based on the above condition (2*A-2*B) / (B+C)=0.5, the excess capacity of the two first external devices 2 can be temporarily stored by the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 of the temporary storage device 20 and processed by the corresponding second external device 3, thus it can be concluded that a temporary storage device 20 is needed.

[0119] Understandably, when there are M first external devices 2 and N second external devices 3, and the first external devices 2, second external devices 3, and receiving / dispatching mechanisms 24 satisfy the condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x, if x is less than 1 and greater than 0, then (NM) is 1; if x is greater than 1 and is an integer, then (NM) is x; if x is greater than 1 and is not an integer, then (NM) is the integer x rounded up. For example, if x is 0.5, then NM is 1; if x is 1, then NM can be 1 or 2; if x is 1.5, meaning the excess capacity of the M first external devices 2 can be temporarily stored by the receiving / dispatching mechanisms 24 of the two temporary storage devices 20 and processed by the corresponding second external devices 3, then it can be concluded that two temporary storage devices 20 are needed, and NM is 2.

[0120] Based on the above-mentioned condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x between the first external device 2, the second external device 3, and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24, the following exemplary descriptions are provided for the second to seventh embodiments. It should be understood that this is not a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0121] In the second embodiment of this application, the first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (AB) / (B+C)=0.5, which means that a temporary storage device 20 is needed. That is, the connecting device 200 includes a transfer device 10 and a temporary storage device 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to this.

[0122] In the third embodiment of this application, the first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (3*A-3*B) / (B+C)=0.75, which means that a temporary storage device 20 is needed. That is, the connecting device 300 includes three transfer devices 10 and one temporary storage device 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to the configuration.

[0123] In the fourth embodiment of this application, the first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (3*A-3*B) / (B+C)=1.25, which means that two temporary storage devices 20 are required. That is, the connecting device 400 includes three transfer devices 10 and two temporary storage devices 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to the configuration.

[0124] In the fifth embodiment of this application, the first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (2*A-2*B) / (B+C)=0.5, which means that a temporary storage device 20 is needed. That is, the connecting device 500 includes two transfer devices 10 and one temporary storage device 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to the configuration.

[0125] In the sixth embodiment of this application, the first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (AB) / (B+C)=0.5, which means that a temporary storage device 20 is needed. That is, the connecting device 600 includes a transfer device 10 and a temporary storage device 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to this.

[0126] In the seventh embodiment of this application, the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than that of the second external device 3. The first external device 2, the second external device 3 and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 satisfy (3*A-3*B) / (B+C)=1.25, which means that two temporary storage devices 20 are needed. That is, the connecting device 700 includes three transfer devices 10 and two temporary storage devices 20, and the overhead crane device 30 is adapted to the configuration.

[0127] Understandably, in some other embodiments, the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 is used to transfer the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 to the second external equipment 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 for processing when the sum of the capacities of the two first external equipment 2 is less than the sum of the capacities of the three second external equipment 3, wherein the capacities of the first external equipment 2 are still greater than the capacities of the second external equipment 3. Alternatively, the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 can be transferred sequentially through the conveying mechanism 23, the handling mechanism 22, the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 13, the transfer mechanism 12, and the conveying mechanism 11 to the second external equipment 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 for processing (see See...). Figure 2 (The direction of the turn is roughly indicated by the dashed arrow).

[0128] Understandably, when the number of first external devices 2 is M and the number of second external devices 3 is N, when the sum of the production capacity of the M first external devices 2 is greater than the sum of the production capacity of the N second external devices 3, the connecting device 100 will transport the product 1 of the first external device 2 to the corresponding second external device 3 through the conveying mechanism 11, or, in sequence, transport the product 1 of the first external device 2 to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 and the receiving and dispensing mechanism 24 for receiving through the conveying mechanism 11, the transfer mechanism 12, the lifting mechanism 13, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 21, the handling mechanism 22 and the conveying mechanism 23.

[0129] Understandably, when the number of first external devices 2 is M and the number of second external devices 3 is N, and the connecting device 100 has a capacity of each first external device 2 greater than the capacity of each second external device 3, and the sum of the capacities of the M first external devices 2 is less than the sum of the capacities of the N second external devices 3, the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 is conveyed to the corresponding second external device 3 through the conveying mechanism 23, the handling mechanism 22, the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 13, the transfer mechanism 12 and the conveying mechanism 11 are conveyed sequentially to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11.

[0130] Understandably, in some other embodiments, if the first external device 2 malfunctions, i.e., if the first external device 2 experiences a failure such as maintenance, downtime, or abnormal alarm, and therefore cannot supply product 1 when the second external device 3 has a processing requirement, then the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 is transferred to the second external device 3 corresponding to the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 via the conveying mechanism 23 for processing, or the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 is sequentially transferred to the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 via the conveying mechanism 23, the handling mechanism 22, the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 13, the transfer mechanism 12, and the conveying mechanism 11 for processing (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 (The direction of the turn is roughly indicated by the dashed arrow).

[0131] Understandably, when one, two, or all three of the three second external devices 3 malfunction, the excess production capacity of the first external device 2 can be transferred to the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 for receiving through the conveying mechanism 11, the transfer mechanism 12, the lifting mechanism 13, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 21, the handling mechanism 22, and the conveying mechanism 23, so as to ensure the normal production of the first external device 2.

[0132] The connecting device 100 in this embodiment, through the cooperation of the transfer device 10, the temporary storage device 20, and the overhead crane device 30, enables product 1 to be transferred and allocated between the first external device 2, the second external device 3, and the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24, thus automating the transfer of product 1. Since product 1 can be transferred to different external devices or temporarily stored in the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 via the connecting device 100, it is convenient to allocate the supply of product 1 according to supply and demand. In addition, the connecting device 100 can effectively replace manual loading and unloading, reducing the labor intensity and labor costs of manual labor.

[0133] Based on the specific structure of the connection device 100 described above, the connection device 500 of the fifth embodiment will be described exemplarily below. It should be understood that this is not a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0134] In the fifth embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 6 The connecting device 500 is used when the capacity of the first external device 2 is greater than that of the second external device 3, and when product 1 is processed by the second external device 3 first and then by the first external device 2. In this case, when the second external device 3 is processing product 1 normally, the product 1 of the second external device 3 is first transported to the corresponding first external device 2 for processing via the conveying mechanism 11. When the capacity demand of the second external device 3 cannot meet the capacity demand of the first external device 2, the product 1 of the second external device 3 corresponding to the temporary storage device 20 is transported to the first external device 2 for processing via the conveying mechanism 23, the handling mechanism 22, the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 13, the transfer mechanism 12, and the conveying mechanism 11 in sequence. (See also: [link to previous section]) Figure 6 (The direction of transit is roughly indicated by the solid arrow in the middle) to meet the processing requirements of the first external device 2.

[0135] Understandably, in some other embodiments, the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 is used to, when the combined capacity of the three second external devices 3 cannot meet the capacity of the two first external devices 2, sequentially transport the product 1 of the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 to the first external device 2 for processing via the conveying mechanism 23, the handling mechanism 22, the lifting mechanism 21, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 13, the transfer mechanism 12, and the conveying mechanism 11 (see See [link to documentation]). Figure 6 (The direction of transit is roughly indicated by the dashed arrow in the middle) to meet the processing requirements of the first external device 2.

[0136] Understandably, when the sum of the production capacities of the three second external devices 3 exceeds the sum of the production capacities of the two first external devices 2, the excess product 1 of the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 11 is sequentially conveyed to the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 for receiving via the conveying mechanism 11, the transfer mechanism 12, the lifting mechanism 13, the gripping mechanism 31, the lifting mechanism 21, the handling mechanism 22, and the conveying mechanism 23, or the excess product 1 of the second external device 3 corresponding to the conveying mechanism 23 is conveyed to the receiving and dispatching mechanism 24 for receiving via the conveying mechanism 23 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6 (The direction of the turn is roughly indicated by the solid arrow).

[0137] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that this application can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of this application. Therefore, the embodiments should be regarded as exemplary and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of this application is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be embraced within this application.

[0138] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of this application without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A connection device for interfacing with M first external devices and N second external devices, wherein, M is less than N, characterized in that it includes: M transfer devices, each of which includes a conveying mechanism, a transfer mechanism, and a lifting mechanism. The two ends of the conveying mechanism are respectively used to connect to the first external device and the second external device. The conveying mechanism is used to transport products between the first external device and the second external device, or between the first external device and the transfer mechanism. The transfer mechanism is used to remove the products from the conveying mechanism and place them on the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the products upward. NM temporary storage devices are arranged adjacent to M transfer devices. Each temporary storage device includes a lifting mechanism, a handling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a receiving / discharging mechanism. One end of the conveying mechanism is used to connect to the second external device, and the other end of the conveying mechanism is arranged adjacent to the receiving / discharging mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product downward. The handling mechanism is used to remove the product from the lifting mechanism and place it in the conveying mechanism. The conveying mechanism is used to transfer the product between the handling mechanism and the corresponding second external device, or between the handling mechanism and the receiving / discharging mechanism. The receiving / discharging mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism for receiving. An overhead crane device is installed above the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The overhead crane device includes a gripping mechanism that can move between the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The gripping mechanism is used to move the product between the lifting mechanism and the hoisting mechanism.

2. The connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the production capacity of the first external device is greater than that of the second external device, the connecting device may, through the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the first external device to the corresponding second external device, or, sequentially through the conveying mechanism, the transfer mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the handling mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the first external device to the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism, or, through the conveying mechanism, transport the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the corresponding second external device.

3. The connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the sum of the production capacities of the M first external devices is greater than the sum of the production capacities of the N second external devices, the connecting device transports the products of the first external devices to the corresponding second external devices via the conveying mechanism, or sequentially transports the products of the first external devices to the second external devices corresponding to the conveying mechanism and the receiving and dispensing mechanism via the conveying mechanism, the transfer mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the handling mechanism and the transmission mechanism.

4. The connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the capacity of each first external device is greater than the capacity of each second external device, and the sum of the capacities of M first external devices is less than the sum of the capacities of N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the corresponding second external device through the conveying mechanism, or conveys the product of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism in sequence through the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism and the conveying mechanism.

5. The connection device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, When the first external device, the second external device, and the receiving / dispatching mechanism satisfy the condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x, if x is less than 1 and greater than 0, then (NM) is 1; if x is greater than 1 and is an integer, then (NM) is x; if x is greater than 1 and is not an integer, then (NM) is the integer x rounded up. Where A is the capacity of the first external device, B is the capacity of the second external device, and C is the storage capacity of the receiving / dispatching mechanism.

6. The connection device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the receiving and dispatching mechanisms includes a receiving and dispatching module and a temporary storage module. The receiving and dispatching module is disposed adjacent to the other end of the conveying mechanism, and the temporary storage module is disposed adjacent to the receiving and dispatching module. The receiving and dispatching module is used to move the product between the conveying mechanism and the temporary storage module.

7. The connection device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The temporary storage module includes a lifting component, a support plate, a first clamping component, and a second clamping component. The support plate is connected to the lifting component. The support plate, the first clamping component, and the second clamping component are arranged sequentially from bottom to top. The support plate is used to support the material tray, and the material tray is used to support the product. The lifting component drives the support plate and the material tray to move upward to the first clamping component or the second clamping component. Both the first clamping component and the second clamping component are used to clamp the material tray.

8. The connection device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The temporary storage module also includes a sliding component, which is slidably connected to the lifting component. The support plate is disposed on the sliding component, and the sliding component drives the support plate to move relative to the lifting component.

9. A connection device for interfacing with M first external devices and N second external devices, wherein, M is less than N, characterized in that it includes: M transfer devices, each of which includes a conveying mechanism, a transfer mechanism, and a lifting mechanism. The two ends of the conveying mechanism are respectively used to connect to the first external device and the second external device. The conveying mechanism is used to transport products between the second external device and the first external device, or between the second external device and the transfer mechanism. The transfer mechanism is used to remove the product from the lifting mechanism and place it on the conveying mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product downward. NM temporary storage devices are arranged adjacent to M transfer devices. Each temporary storage device includes a lifting mechanism, a handling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a receiving / discharging mechanism. One end of the conveying mechanism is used to connect to the second external device, and the other end of the conveying mechanism is arranged adjacent to the receiving / discharging mechanism. The lifting mechanism is used to move the product upward. The handling mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism and place it on the lifting mechanism. The conveying mechanism is used to convey the product between the corresponding second external device and the handling mechanism, or between the corresponding second external device and the receiving / discharging mechanism. The receiving / discharging mechanism is used to remove the product from the conveying mechanism for receiving. An overhead crane device is installed above the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The overhead crane device includes a gripping mechanism that can move between the transfer device and the temporary storage device. The gripping mechanism is used to move the product between the lifting mechanism and the hoisting mechanism.

10. The connection device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, When the sum of the production capacities of the M first external devices is greater than the sum of the production capacities of the N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the products of the second external devices to the first external devices via the conveying mechanism, or sequentially conveys the products of the second external devices corresponding to the conveying mechanism to the first external devices via the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, or sequentially conveys the products of the receiving and dispatching mechanism to the first external devices via the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism.

11. The connection device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, When the production capacity of each first external device is greater than the production capacity of each second external device, and the sum of the production capacities of M first external devices is less than the sum of the production capacities of N second external devices, the connecting device conveys the product of the second external device to the first external device through the conveying mechanism, or, sequentially, conveys the product of the second external device corresponding to the conveying mechanism to the first external device through the conveying mechanism, the handling mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the gripping mechanism, the lifting mechanism, the transfer mechanism, and the conveying mechanism, or, conveys the product corresponding to the second external device to the receiving and dispatching mechanism for receiving through the conveying mechanism.

12. The connection device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The first external device, the second external device, and the receiving / dispatching mechanism satisfy the condition (M*AM*B) / (B+C)=x. If x is less than 1 and greater than 0, then (NM) is 1. If x is greater than 1 and is an integer, then (NM) is x. If x is greater than 1 and is not an integer, then (NM) is the integer x rounded up. Where A is the capacity of the first external device, B is the capacity of the second external device, and C is the storage capacity of the receiving / dispatching mechanism.

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