Feeding and discharging temporary storage table and production line comprising same

Abstract

The invention provides a feeding and discharging temporary storage table and a production line comprising the same, relates to the technical field of automobile product machining equipment, and solves the technical problems that when automatic feeding and discharging are carried out on the production line, the takt cannot be followed easily when few robots exist, and the cost is high when many robots exist. The feeding and discharging temporary storage table comprises a supporting frame, a temporary storage area, a walking area and a chip receiving device. The buffer areas are arranged at the top of the supporting frame at intervals and used for containing parts; the walking area is arranged between the two adjacent cache areas for walking; the chipping receiving device is arranged below the top of the supporting frame so as to receive chippings falling from the buffering area. The time for waiting for feeding of the machine tool is shortened, the production efficiency is improved, production pauses are reduced, the requirements for manual carrying and part sorting are reduced, the labor cost and the error rate are reduced, the machine tool can walk on the temporary storage table for employment, the space utilization rate is improved, cutting liquid and aluminum scraps can fall into the scrap receiving device at the bottom of the temporary storage table, and pollution to the working environment is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automotive product processing equipment technology, and in particular to a loading and unloading buffer platform and a production line including the platform. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the automotive industry and the field of automation, the demand for automated machine tool loading and unloading is showing a significant upward trend. The application of automation can significantly improve production efficiency and reduce labor costs, and automated machine tool loading and unloading is one of the key links in achieving full automation of the production line. Automated machine tool loading and unloading has advantages such as high precision, high efficiency, and flexible production, making it suitable for the production needs of the manufacturing industry.

[0003] In automated production lines, when one robot is responsible for multiple machine tools, the robot needs to move frequently along ground rails to load and unload materials for these machines, resulting in long cycle times. Alternatively, one robot can be assigned to each machine tool, but this requires multiple robots for automated lines with multiple machine tools, leading to a large number of robots and increased costs. Furthermore, the surfaces of parts machined by the machine tools will have cutting fluid and aluminum shavings on them, which will splash as the robots move, causing environmental damage and potentially affecting the long-term lifespan of the equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a loading and unloading buffer platform and a production line including the platform, so as to solve the technical problems in the prior art where the cycle time is not easy to keep up when there are few robots and the cost is high when there are many robots when the loading and unloading of the production line is automated.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0006] This invention provides a loading / unloading buffer platform, comprising a support frame, a buffer area, a traveling area, and a chip receiving device; wherein:

[0007] The number of buffer zones is at least one, and they are spaced apart on the top of the support frame for placing parts;

[0008] The walking area is set between two adjacent buffer areas to allow for movement;

[0009] The chip receiving device is located below the top of the support frame to catch the debris falling from the buffer area.

[0010] The loading / unloading buffer platform provided by this invention is placed in front of each machine tool and can be used to hold blanks, finished products, semi-finished products, and out-of-process (NG) parts. During automated line operation, when all machine tools are in operation, the robot is idle. At this time, the robot can first pick up and place parts onto the buffer platform, which pre-prepares parts to be processed, reducing the waiting time for machine tools to load materials and thus improving production efficiency. For parts already processed by the machine tools, the robot can also first grab and place them on the buffer platform, then grab the blanks pre-placed on the buffer platform, and then prioritize unloading for other machine tools. Simultaneously, the buffer platform can also serve as a buffer area, temporarily storing parts when machine tools or loading / unloading equipment malfunction, avoiding production interruptions and reducing downtime. Furthermore, the buffer platform can reduce the need for manual handling and sorting of parts, lowering labor costs and error rates. By setting up walking areas between buffer zones, employees can move around on the buffer platform, improving space utilization and solving the shortcomings of the buffer platform occupying space and being unable to move around. By setting up a chip collection device, the cutting fluid and aluminum chips on the surface of the freshly processed parts can fall into the chip collection device at the bottom of the buffer platform, reducing pollution to the working environment.

[0011] As a further improvement of the present invention, each of the buffer areas consists of two buffer sections spaced apart, and a walking area is also provided between the two buffer sections.

[0012] As a further improvement of the present invention, each of the buffer areas is provided with a mounting plate and a positioning device for contouring and multi-point positioning of the parts.

[0013] As a further improvement of the present invention, the positioning device includes a positioning groove, a positioning cylindrical pin, a limiting support block, and a detection sensor; wherein:

[0014] The positioning grooves are respectively disposed in the two buffer sections to support the two ends of the limiting parts;

[0015] The positioning cylindrical pin is disposed on one of the mounting plates and is used to penetrate into the part for positioning.

[0016] The limiting support block is disposed in one of the buffer sections and is used to horizontally limit the part.

[0017] The detection sensor is disposed within one of the buffer sections and is used to detect the part's positioning. As a further improvement of the invention, the positioning groove is U-shaped and includes a positioning lifting frame, left and right positioning blocks, and a pad; wherein:

[0018] The positioning and lifting frame is vertically installed at the top of the buffer section;

[0019] The left and right positioning blocks are respectively disposed on both sides of the positioning lifting frame, and the left and right positioning blocks are provided with guide slopes beyond the top position of the positioning lifting frame;

[0020] The pad is laid on top of the positioning and lifting frame.

[0021] As a further improvement of the present invention, the top of the limiting support block extends vertically upward to form a limiting part.

[0022] As a further improvement of the present invention, the detection sensor is mounted in the buffer section via a fixing plate.

[0023] As a further improvement of the present invention, a grid foot pedal is provided in the walking area; the grid foot pedal is fixed to the top of the support frame.

[0024] As a further improvement of the present invention, the chip receiving device includes a chip receiving water tank and a drain pipe; wherein:

[0025] The chip collection trough has an inverted trapezoidal structure and is fixed below the top surface of the support frame to collect falling debris.

[0026] The drain pipes are located at both ends of the chip collection tank to discharge from both sides respectively.

[0027] As a further improvement of the present invention, the support frame is a frame structure, including a top square frame, a bottom square frame, horizontal stretchers, vertical stretchers, and legs; wherein:

[0028] Both the top-level frame and the bottom-level frame are composed of four square tubes connected end to end;

[0029] The horizontal and vertical stretchers are arranged within the top-level frame;

[0030] The outriggers are located at the four corners of the support frame.

[0031] As a further improvement of the present invention, at least one side of the support frame is provided with an air blowing assembly for surface air blowing on the placed parts.

[0032] As a further improvement of the present invention, the air blowing assembly includes an air blowing pipe connected to an air supply source.

[0033] As a further improvement of the present invention, the support frame is constructed from aluminum profiles; or, the support frame is welded from square tubes.

[0034] The loading and unloading buffer platform of this invention has four buffer stations installed in front of each machine tool. It can directly unload the blank parts after processing and temporarily store them on the buffer platform, waiting for the next process to be completed before clamping and processing. The cutting fluid and aluminum chips on the surface of the freshly processed parts can fall into the chip collection water tank of the buffer platform, reducing pollution to the working environment. The buffer platform of this invention has a simple and practical structure, is easy to manufacture, can save production costs, is not prone to failure, meets the requirements of high strength and can achieve lightweight. By installing a grid foot pedal, workers can walk on it and work, improving space utilization.

[0035] The present invention provides a production line comprising a plurality of machine tools, a robot serving the plurality of machine tools, and at least one loading / unloading buffer station disposed between the robot and the plurality of machine tools.

[0036] The automated production line of this invention can adjust the production cycle by setting up a buffer station, thereby improving production efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing stability and flexibility. It is applicable to the field of automated machine tool loading and unloading. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a front view of the application point of the contouring structure in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention to the feature points of the part;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a side view of the point of action of the contouring structure in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention on the feature points of the part;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the posture of the part A being gripped by the clamp A in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the posture of the part B being gripped by the fixture B in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram (a) of the grid foot pedal in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the structure of the grid foot pedal in the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of an embodiment of the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a top view of the loading and unloading buffer platform of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the feature points of the parts processed by the loading and unloading buffer table of the present invention for contouring.

[0049] In the diagram: 1. Support frame; 11. Top layer frame; 12. Bottom layer frame; 13. Horizontal stretcher; 14. Vertical stretcher; 15. Support leg; 2. Buffer section; 3. Walking area; 31. Grille foot pedal; 4. Chip receiving device; 41. Chip receiving water trough; 42. Drain pipe; 5. Positioning device; 51. Positioning groove; 511. Positioning lifting frame; 512. Positioning blocks on the left and right sides; 513. Pad; 514. Guide slope; 52. Positioning cylindrical pin; 53. Limiting support block; 531. Limiting part; 54. 55. Detection sensor; 6. Fixing plate; 100. Mounting plate; 200. Machine tool; 300. Robot; 400. Loading and unloading buffer platform; 100. Integrated die-cast front beam part; 10. First limiting point; 20. Second limiting point; 30. Third limiting point; 50. Fifth limiting point; 60. Sixth limiting point; 101. First feature point; 102. Second feature point; 103. Third feature point; 104. Fourth feature point; 105. Fifth feature point; 106. Sixth feature point. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0051] In this embodiment, the present invention provides a loading and unloading buffer platform 300 for an integrated die-cast front beam part 400. Specifically, the loading and unloading buffer platform 300 includes a support frame 1, a buffer area, a traveling area 3, and a chip receiving device 4; wherein:

[0052] There is at least one buffer zone, which is spaced at the top of the support frame 1 to hold parts. It should be noted that each buffer zone can hold one part; by setting up several buffer zones, several parts can be buffered at the same time.

[0053] The travel area 3 is set between two adjacent buffer areas for travel; by setting the travel area 3, the buffer platform 300 can be placed next to the machine tool 100 and still allow for travel, avoiding the problem of the travel area being reduced due to the space occupied by the buffer platform 300.

[0054] The chip collection device 4 is located below the top of the support frame 1 to collect chips falling from the buffer area. By setting up the chip collection device 4, cutting fluid or chips on the surface of the parts placed in the buffer area can be collected, preventing pollution of the surrounding environment.

[0055] In this embodiment, as per the appendix to the specification... Figure 1 As shown, the schematic loading and unloading buffer platform 300 has four buffer areas, forming a four-station buffer platform capable of holding four parts simultaneously. Of course, other numbers can also be used, and this invention is not limited thereto.

[0056] The loading / unloading buffer platform 300 provided by this invention is placed in front of each machine tool 100 and can be used to place blanks, finished products, semi-finished products, and out-of-process (NG) parts. During automated line operation, when all machine tools 100 are in operation, the robot 200 is idle. At this time, the robot 200 can first pick up and place parts onto the buffer platform 300. The buffer platform 300 pre-prepares parts to be processed, reducing the waiting time for machine tools 100 to load materials, thereby improving production efficiency. For parts processed by machine tools 100, the robot 200 can also first grab and place them on the buffer platform 300, then grab the blanks pre-placed on the buffer platform 300, and then prioritize unloading materials for other machine tools 100. Simultaneously, the buffer platform 300 can also serve as a buffer area, temporarily storing parts when machine tools 100 or loading / unloading equipment malfunctions, avoiding production interruptions and reducing production stoppages. Furthermore, the buffer platform 300 can reduce the need for manual handling and sorting of parts, lowering labor costs and error rates. By setting up a walking area 3 between the buffer areas, employees can move around on the buffer table 300, which improves space utilization and solves the shortcomings of the buffer table 300 occupying space and being unable to move around. By setting up a chip receiving device 4, the cutting fluid and aluminum chips on the surface of the freshly processed parts can fall into the chip receiving device 4 at the bottom of the buffer table 300, reducing pollution to the working environment.

[0057] Considering the relatively large size of the parts placed in this invention, in order to fully utilize the space within the buffer platform 300, in this embodiment, each buffer area consists of two spaced-apart buffer sections 2, with a walking area 3 also provided between the two buffer sections 2. Of course, if the length or size of the buffered parts is small, the buffer areas do not need to be separated, that is, there is no need to provide two separate buffer sections 2. In other words, the configuration of the buffer areas in this invention can be selected according to the specifications and size of the buffered parts, and is not limited to the one embodiment illustrated in this invention. For example, the buffer areas can also be configured with three buffer sections 2 or four buffer sections 2, etc., as needed. Because the parts are relatively long, the buffer area includes two spaced-apart buffer sections 2, with a walking area 3 also provided between the buffer sections 2, thereby maximizing the utilization of the space occupied by the buffer platform 300 and increasing the area of ​​the walking area.

[0058] To further secure the parts and facilitate the gripping of the robot 200, in this embodiment, each buffer area is provided with a mounting plate 6 and a positioning device 5 for contouring and multi-point positioning of the parts.

[0059] It should be noted that the positioning device 5 of this invention adopts a contour-following multi-point limiting structure. This structure uses contour-following at the contact points with the part, employing multi-point contouring for limiting and fixing, thus achieving effective limiting and fixing of the part. This invention designs a contour-following structure based on the structural features of the integrated die-cast front beam part to achieve the part's positioning function. This contour-following positioning structure has a tight contact with the part, ensuring stable height. In the contour-following positioning device, the part is placed at four positions on the buffer platform, awaiting the action command of the next workflow.

[0060] Furthermore, as an optional embodiment of the present invention, the positioning device 5 includes a positioning groove 51, a positioning cylindrical pin 52, a limiting support block 53, and a detection sensor 54; wherein:

[0061] Positioning slots 51 are respectively set in the two buffer sections 2 to support the two ends of the limiting parts;

[0062] A positioning cylindrical pin 52 is disposed in one of the buffer parts 2 and is used to penetrate into the part for positioning. It should be noted that, considering that the buffer part of the present invention has corresponding holes, the positioning cylindrical pin 52 can be used for limiting. If there are no corresponding holes in the part, the positioning cylindrical pin 52 can be omitted. The specific structure of the positioning device 5 can also be selected according to the actual situation of the part, as long as the part can be limited and fixed. As for the form adopted, the present invention does not make specific limitations.

[0063] A limiting support block 53 is disposed in one of the buffer sections 2 and is used to limit the horizontal movement of the part; the limiting support block 53 can cooperate with the positioning cylindrical pin 52 to achieve limiting and fixing of the part at different positions.

[0064] The detection sensor 54 is installed in one of the buffer sections 2 and is used to detect the arrival of the part.

[0065] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the positioning groove 51 is U-shaped, and the U-shaped cavity is used to support and limit the parts. Specifically, the positioning groove 51 includes a positioning lifting frame 511, left and right side positioning blocks 512, and a pad 513; wherein:

[0066] The positioning and lifting frame 511 has an inverted T-shaped structure, including a base and a beam. The positioning and lifting frame 511 is vertically installed on the top of the buffer section 2.

[0067] The left and right positioning blocks 512 are respectively set on both sides of the positioning lifting frame 511. Specifically, the left and right positioning blocks 512 are fixed to the base by screws. In order to facilitate guidance and easy placement, the left and right positioning blocks 512 are provided with guide slopes 514 extending beyond the top of the positioning lifting frame 511. The chamfer of the guide slopes 514 is 45° and 25mm.

[0068] To prevent scratches or other damage to the surface of the parts when the positioning groove 51 is placed, a pad 513 is laid on top of the positioning lifting frame 511 in this invention. The pad 513 can be made of a flexible material, such as rubber, sponge, silicone, plastic, nylon, or POM. In a more preferred embodiment, the left and right positioning blocks 512 are made of the same material as the base plate 513, or of a metal softer than the parts, such as copper, and are made of a material that will not abrade the parts. The positioning lifting frame 511 is made of Q235a or AL6061 metal.

[0069] As a further improvement of the present invention, the top of the limiting support block 53 extends vertically upward to form a limiting part.

[0070] The positioning device of this invention enables a robot gripper to grasp a part from both sides A and B, and is suitable for machine tool front buffer tables in different processing steps. Gripper A or gripper B can be mounted on the robot, and quick switching between grippers is achieved via a quick-change disc to grip either side A or side B of the part respectively.

[0071] As a further improvement of the present invention, the detection sensor 54 is disposed in the buffer section 2 by means of the fixing plate 55.

[0072] As an optional embodiment of the present invention, a grid foot pedal 31 is provided in the walking area 3, allowing personnel to walk on the buffer platform and making efficient use of space. The grid foot pedal needs to meet the requirements of high strength and lightweight, allowing personnel to walk and work on it, thus maximizing space utilization and reducing the drawback of the buffer platform occupying space to a certain extent. Specifically, the grid foot pedal 31 is fixed to the top of the support frame 1. It should be noted that the bottom of the grid foot pedal 31 is a suspended structure, which not only saves material on the support frame 1, but also allows foreign objects that fall during walking to fall into the chip collection device 4.

[0073] Furthermore, the chip receiving device 4 includes a chip receiving water tank 41 and a drain pipe 42; wherein:

[0074] The chip collection trough 41 has an inverted trapezoidal structure and is fixed below the top surface of the support frame 1. It is used to collect the chips and cutting fluid that fall from the surface of the part after it has been machined, so as to avoid splashing of cutting fluid in subsequent processes. Specifically, the length and width of the chip collection trough 41 are adapted to the length and width of the support frame 1 to ensure that the entire area of ​​the support frame 1 is covered.

[0075] Drain pipes 42 are installed at both ends of the chip collection trough 41 to discharge waste from both sides respectively.

[0076] By installing a chip collection tank 41 at the bottom, the cutting fluid and aluminum chips on the parts after processing by the machine tool fall into the tank by gravity. It should be noted that if air blowing components are installed on both sides of the support frame 1, air can be blown through the pipeline. For example, a bamboo tube or similar device can be used to remove aluminum chips and cutting fluid from the surface of the parts, reducing the splashing of cutting fluid during the robot's movement of the parts in subsequent work.

[0077] In this embodiment, the support frame 1 is a frame structure, including a top frame 11, a bottom frame 12, horizontal stretchers 13, vertical stretchers 14, and legs 15; wherein:

[0078] Both the top frame 11 and the bottom frame 12 are made of four square tubes connected end to end and welded together;

[0079] Horizontal stretchers 13 and vertical stretchers 14 are arranged within the top-level frame 11. Of course, to facilitate the arrangement of structures such as the grille foot pedal 31 and mounting plate 6, the horizontal stretchers 13 and vertical stretchers 14 within the cavity of the top-level frame 11 need to be rationally arranged considering load-bearing capacity and the areas requiring reinforcement. The structure illustrated in the schematic diagram is merely a schematic of one embodiment of the invention and can be modified and arranged according to actual site conditions. The present invention does not specifically limit the placement of the horizontal stretchers 13 and vertical stretchers 14.

[0080] The outriggers 15 are located at the four corners of the support frame 1.

[0081] To further reduce pollution, in this embodiment of the invention, an air blowing assembly is provided on at least one side of the support frame 1 for blowing air onto the surface of the placed parts. By providing the air blowing assembly, active cleaning of the part surface can be achieved, further preventing environmental pollution during handling. As an optional embodiment of the invention, the actuator of the air blowing assembly is mainly a bamboo-joint tube, a type of air tube that can change shape.

[0082] Specifically, the air blowing assembly may include air blowing pipes connected to an air supply source. For example, air blowing pipes can be installed on both sides of the support frame 1 to temporarily store parts while removing aluminum shavings and cutting fluid from the surface of the parts. This can be designed as a pre-selected solution based on production needs. Furthermore, for greater flexibility and convenience, an adjustment structure can be provided between the air blowing pipes and the support frame 1 to adjust the left-right swing direction and pitch direction of the air blowing pipes. The adjustment structure can be implemented using existing technologies. Alternatively, the air blowing pipes can be made of bamboo-joint tubes to achieve direction changes. The shape of the bamboo-joint tubes is adjustable, thereby achieving adjustment of the air blowing direction and position.

[0083] As another optional embodiment of the present invention, the support frame 1 may not be a welded frame, or it may be constructed from aluminum profiles to achieve the purpose of lightweighting. However, aluminum profile frames are prone to deformation after long-term use or collisions, and their stability is insufficient.

[0084] The loading and unloading buffer platform 300 of this invention has four buffer platforms 300 installed in front of each machine tool 100. After the blank parts are processed, they can be directly unloaded into the buffer platform 300 for temporary storage, and then picked up for processing after the next process is completed. The cutting fluid and aluminum chips on the surface of the freshly processed parts can fall into the chip collection water tank 41 of the buffer platform 300, reducing pollution to the working environment. The buffer platform 300 of this invention also has the advantages of simple and practical structure, simple processing and manufacturing, saving production costs and not prone to failure. In addition, the buffer platform 300 is equipped with a grid foot pedal, which meets the requirements of high strength and can achieve lightweight, allowing workers to walk on it and improve space utilization.

[0085] The buffer platform structure of this invention is applicable to the automotive manufacturing industry and machine tool loading and unloading automation. It can realize the buffer placement of integrated die-cast front beam parts for a certain model. By temporarily storing parts to be processed and parts that have been processed, the production process is coordinated, production efficiency is improved, and the performance and stability of the entire automation system can be effectively improved to meet production needs.

[0086] The present invention provides a production line including a plurality of machine tools 100, a robot 200 serving the plurality of machine tools 100, and at least one loading / unloading buffer station 300 disposed between the robot 200 and the plurality of machine tools 100.

[0087] In one optional embodiment of the present invention, there are three machine tools 100, one robot 200, and three loading / unloading buffer tables 300, with one loading / unloading buffer table 300 arranged in front of each machine tool 100.

[0088] The loading / unloading buffer platform 300 comprises an integral welded support frame 1, a grid foot pedal 31, a positioning device 5, a limiting support block 53, and a detection sensor 54. The positioning device 5 consists of left and right positioning blocks 512, a positioning lifting frame 511, a pad 513, and a positioning cylindrical pin 52. The left and right positioning blocks 512 are installed on both sides of the positioning lifting frame 511 and secured with screws; the pad 9 is installed on top of the positioning lifting frame 511 with screws; the positioning cylindrical pin 10 is installed on the welded mounting plate 6 with screws. The grid foot pedal 31, positioning device 5, limiting support block 53, and detection sensor 54 are secured to the welded mounting plate 6 of the welded support frame 1 with screws. Figure 2 The overall welded support frame 1 is welded together from the top square frame 11, the bottom square frame 12, the horizontal stretcher 13, the vertical stretcher 14, the chip collection trough 41, the welded mounting plate 6, and the drain pipe 42. The structure is simple, practical, and highly stable.

[0089] like Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the feature points of the part, including the first feature point 101 of the first limiting point 10 of the positioning blocks 512 on the left and right sides of the positioning device 5, the second feature point 102 of the second limiting point 20 of the positioning cylindrical pin 52 (the second feature point 102 is an arc-shaped hole), the third feature point 103 of the third limiting point 30 of the limiting support block 53, the fourth feature point 104 of the action point of the detection sensor 54, and the fifth feature point 105 and the sixth feature point 106 of the fifth limiting point 50 and the sixth limiting point 60 of the positioning lifting frame 511 and the pad 513.

[0090] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the loading and unloading buffer platform 300 has the following points of action on the parts: the positioning cylindrical pin 52 is positioned at the second limiting point 20 of the part, and the positioning cylindrical pin 52 plays a role in precise positioning of the part (the positioning blocks 512 on both sides and the cylindrical positioning pin 52 can both position and limit the part. The positioning blocks 512 on both sides mainly limit the part in the Y direction of the two large surfaces AB. The cylindrical positioning pin 52 limits the part in both the X and Y directions); the limiting support block 53 is positioned at the third limiting point 30 of the part, and plays a role in supporting and lifting the part and limiting the part's horizontal movement in the X-axis direction; the positioning lifting frame 511 is positioned at the fifth limiting point 50 of the part, and the positioning lifting frame 511 plays a role in limiting the part's left and right horizontal movement in the X-axis direction; the positioning blocks 512 on both sides are positioned at the first limiting point 10 of the part, and limit the movement of the part in the Y-axis direction of the two surfaces AB; the pad 513 is positioned at the sixth limiting point 60 of the part, and the pad 513 plays a role in supporting and raising the part and limiting its movement in the X-axis direction. All the action limit points work together to meet the positioning and limiting requirements of the parts, and can ensure that the parts are placed stably on the buffer platform so that the robot gripper can grasp and place the parts.

[0091] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the loading / unloading buffer platform 300 of this invention can adapt to different processes where the robot 200 grippers pick up parts from sides A and B, meeting the processing needs of single and multiple processes. The loading / unloading buffer platform 300 is positioned in front of the machine tool 100. Semi-finished parts processed by the machine tool 100 are first placed in the loading / unloading buffer platform 300 for temporary storage, and then picked up after the next process is completed. Raw parts are first placed in the loading / unloading buffer platform 300 and picked up after the machine tool 100 has finished processing them. Finished parts processed by the machine tool 100 are also temporarily stored in the loading / unloading buffer platform 300, waiting for the robot 200 to complete other processes before being picked up and placed in the finished product position.

[0092] Part buffer stations play a crucial role in automated machine tool loading and unloading, coordinating production cycles and improving efficiency by temporarily storing parts to be processed and parts already processed. However, they also have the disadvantage of occupying space. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, this invention designs a grid foot pedal 31 for the loading and unloading buffer platform, which is fastened to the flat surface of the buffer platform with screws. The grid foot pedal 31 is designed to be high-strength, not easily deformed, and lightweight, allowing employees to move around and work on the buffer platform. In this way, the grid foot pedal 31 improves space utilization and solves the problem of the buffer platform occupying too much space.

[0093] Figure 9The diagram shows the overall layout of a project. Robot 200 is responsible for loading and unloading materials from three machine tools 100. If the buffer stations are removed, robot 200 would need to move frequently to pick up and place materials, failing to meet cycle time requirements. Analysis suggests configuring a 4-station loading / unloading buffer station 300 in front of each machine tool to temporarily store raw parts, semi-finished parts, finished products, or defective parts. The buffer stations allow for pre-preparation of parts to be processed, reducing machine tool waiting time for loading, and also allow for flexible adjustment of the storage order and quantity of parts, facilitating scheduling based on production needs.

[0094] In summary, the loading / unloading buffer platform of this invention has a stable and practical structure that can meet the production needs of multiple processes. It helps coordinate the processing speed of the machine tool with the handling speed of the loading / unloading robot. Using the buffer platform, the robot does not need to move frequently to grab parts, reducing the time consumed by robot movement and increasing the overall production cycle time of the automated line by 2-3 minutes, thus improving production efficiency. It should be noted that the processing time varies for different parts, and the time saved also varies accordingly. At the same time, this buffer platform avoids the disadvantage of occupying space, meets the production needs of automated machine tool loading / unloading, and provides a solution for buffer placement in multiple processing steps of the complex three-dimensional integrated die-cast front beam part 400.

[0095] The automated production line of the present invention can improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance stability and flexibility by setting up a loading and unloading buffer table 300. It is applicable to the field of automated loading and unloading of machine tools 100. By adjusting the production cycle through the loading and unloading buffer table 300, the difference in working efficiency between machine tools and robots in picking up and unloading parts is balanced, ensuring the continuity and stability of the production process and improving overall production efficiency.

[0096] First, it should be noted that "inward" refers to the direction towards the center of the storage space, while "outward" refers to the direction away from the center of the storage space.

[0097] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 1 The orientations or positional relationships shown are for the purpose of facilitating and simplifying the description of the present invention, and are not intended to 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 limiting the present invention.

[0098] 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 technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0099] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0100] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0101] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0102] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A loading and unloading buffer station, characterized in that: It includes a support frame, a buffer area, a walking area, and a chip receiving device; wherein: The number of the buffer area is at least one, which is arranged at intervals on the top of the support frame for placing parts; The walking area is arranged between two adjacent buffer areas for walking; The chip receiving device is arranged below the top of the support frame to receive the debris dropped from the buffer area.

2. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the buffer areas is provided with a mounting plate and a positioning device for performing multi-point positioning of the parts.

3. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 2, characterized in that: The positioning device includes a positioning groove, a positioning cylindrical pin, a limit support block, and a detection sensor; wherein: The positioning grooves are respectively arranged in the two buffer parts, and are used to support the two ends of the limiting part; The positioning cylindrical pin is arranged in one of the buffer parts and is used to penetrate into the part for positioning; The limiting support block is arranged in one of the buffer parts, and is used to limit the horizontal position of the parts; The detection sensor is arranged in one of the buffer sections and is used for detecting whether the part is in place.

4. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 3, characterized in that: The positioning groove is U-shaped, including a positioning lifting frame, left and right positioning blocks, and a pad; wherein: The positioning lifting frame is vertically arranged on the top of the cache portion; The left and right positioning blocks are respectively arranged on both sides of the positioning lifting frame, and the left and right positioning blocks are provided with guiding inclined surfaces at positions beyond the top of the positioning lifting frame; The pad is laid on the top of the positioning lifting frame.

5. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 3, characterized in that: The top of the limiting support block vertically extends upward to form a limiting portion.

6. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 1, characterized in that: A grille pedal is arranged in the walking area; the grille pedal is fixed on the top of the support frame.

7. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chip receiving device comprises a chip receiving water tank and a drainage pipe; wherein: The chip receiving trough is an inverted trapezoidal structure, fixed below the top surface of the support frame, and used to receive the fallen chips; The drainage pipes are arranged at both ends of the chip receiving trough to discharge the chips from both sides respectively.

8. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support frame is a frame structure, including a top square frame, a bottom square frame, horizontal beams, vertical beams and legs; wherein: The top square frame and the bottom square frame are both formed by four square tubes connected end to end; The horizontal beam and the vertical beam are arranged in the top frame; The supporting legs are arranged at the four corners of the supporting frame.

9. The loading and unloading buffer station according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least one side of the support frame is provided with a blowing assembly for blowing air on the surface of the placed parts.

10. A production line, characterized in that: It comprises a plurality of machine tools, a robot serving the plurality of machine tools, and at least one loading and unloading buffer station as described in claims 1-9 arranged between the robot and the plurality of machine tools.

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