Transfer station

Abstract

A transfer station (10) for storing a plurality of drive screws (14) from which a drive screw (14) can be removed by an engagement tool (12) comprising a sleeve (15) adapted to receive the drive screw (14) to perform at least one engagement operation using the drive screw (14), the transfer station (10) comprising: a housing (16), the invention relates to an engagement tool comprising a housing (16) extending longitudinally in height along a vertical axis X, in width along a horizontal axis Y and in depth along a depth axis Z, a sleeve holder (18) movably connected to the housing (16), the sleeve holder (18) being adapted to hold and release the sleeve (15) of the engagement tool, a cartridge (36) adapted to store a plurality of the drive screws, wherein the sleeve holder (18) is movable between an attachment position, a filling position and a release position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a transfer station for storing a plurality of drive screws, wherein one of the drive screws can be removed from the transfer station by a joining tool, the joining tool comprising a sleeve adapted to receive the drive screw for performing at least one joining operation using the drive screw. The joining tool is, for example, an installation tool for installing a blind rivet nut in a workpiece. The invention also relates to a system comprising a transfer station and a joining tool, and a method for transferring a new drive screw to the joining tool. Background Art

[0002] In motor vehicle construction, various components such as bars, rails, equipment etc. are often fastened to thin-walled components such as metal sheets or aluminum profiles. A common method of connecting components is to use fasteners with threads.

[0003] A blind rivet nut is a fastening element which is arranged in an opening, for example, in a through hole of a metal sheet or any other sheet or workpiece. The blind rivet nut is therefore provided with an internal thread, thereby enabling a threaded connection with a metal sheet or workpiece whose wall thickness is not sufficient to form a thread. The blind rivet nut is installed in the opening of the workpiece using a blind rivet nut installation device or an installation tool for blind rivet nuts. The blind rivet nut has a hollow cylindrical rivet shank in the undeformed state, at one end of which a radially extending fixing head is formed, and at the other end of which an internal thread is formed.

[0004] It is known to set the blind rivet nut in a hole using a bolt (also called a drive screw) with an external thread that cooperates with the internal thread of the blind rivet nut. The internal thread of the blind rivet nut engages with the external thread of the bolt. The blind rivet nut is inserted in such a way that the rivet shank is first introduced into the hole until the rivet head contacts the sheet material. By starting the blind rivet nut installation device, the drive screw and thus the threaded area are moved axially backwards from the blind rivet nut and the sheet material, so that compression of the rivet shank occurs. A bead or bulge is formed at the desired deformation position on the side of the workpiece facing away from the rivet head. The blind rivet nut is thus held captively in the hole (or opening).

[0005] In order to remove the blind rivet nut installation device from the installed blind rivet nut, the pressure on the drive screw is released and it is rotated in the screw-out direction. The blind rivet nut installation device is then available for a new installation operation.

[0006] WO2020244753A1 from the applicant discloses an automatic installation tool for automatically installing rivets (especially rivet nuts) in a workpiece. The automatic installation tool includes a drive screw protruding from the front end of the installation tool. The drive screw is, for example, arranged in a sleeve and can be rotated and translated between a retracted position and an extended position along and around the longitudinal axis. After multiple joining operations, the drive screw may show signs of wear and must be replaced to avoid erroneous joining operations. The size of the drive screw can also be changed so that it can be used, for example, for a blind rivet nut with another diameter. In order to replace the worn drive screw, the operator must manually replace the drive screw by entering the robot unit where the joining tool is located. This is time-consuming and may cause safety issues. Summary of the invention

[0007] In order to alleviate these disadvantages, it is necessary to automate this drive screw replacement process. The object of the present invention is to provide a transfer station according to claim 1. More specifically, the transfer station comprises: a housing extending longitudinally along a vertical axis X in height, along a horizontal axis in width and along a depth axis in depth, a sleeve holder movably connected to the housing, the sleeve holder being suitable for holding and releasing the receiving sleeve of the engagement tool, a magazine suitable for storing a plurality of the drive screws, wherein the sleeve holder is movable between an attachment position, a filling position and a release position.

[0008] The transfer station allows for easy and automatic replacement of the current drive screw from the joining tool for another (either because the current drive screw is worn or replaced with a drive screw of a different size to join other fasteners). The transfer station is compact and can be easily connected to the joining tool.

[0009] In an embodiment, the sleeve holder is rotationally movable about a holder axis relative to the housing between the release position and the attachment position.

[0010] In an embodiment, the sleeve holder is translationally movable along a transfer axis relative to the housing between the filling position and the attachment position.

[0011] In one embodiment, the holder axis is parallel to the transfer axis.

[0012] In an embodiment, the socket holder includes a jaw clamp adapted to receive a socket of a joining tool.

[0013] In one embodiment, the claw clamp is mounted on a bracket, and the bracket is capable of translational movement relative to the housing.

[0014] In one embodiment, the jaw clamp is connected to the bracket via a first pivot.

[0015] In an embodiment, the magazine comprises a track extending longitudinally along a track axis, and wherein the track axis is oriented at an angle between 45 and 85 degrees relative to the vertical axis.

[0016] In one embodiment, a transfer device is provided at one end of the track, and when the sleeve holder is in the filling position, the transfer device is arranged between the track and the sleeve holder.

[0017] In one embodiment, the transfer station further comprises a collecting tray for collecting used drive screws, wherein the collecting tray is arranged below the sleeve holder and faces the sleeve holder, so that the drive screw can fall from the sleeve into the collecting tray when the sleeve holder is in the release position.

[0018] In an embodiment, the housing comprises a first structure resiliently assembled to a second structure.

[0019] The invention also relates to a transfer station comprising a housing extending longitudinally along a vertical axis, a sleeve holder connected to the housing, the sleeve holder being suitable for holding and releasing a sleeve of an engagement tool, and a filling unit connected to the housing. The filling unit comprises a magazine suitable for storing a plurality of drive screws and a transfer device for transferring one of the plurality of drive screws to the sleeve, wherein the sleeve holder is movable between a filling position and a release position, and wherein the transfer device is movable between the magazine and the sleeve holder.

[0020] In one embodiment, the sleeve holder is rotatably movable relative to the housing around the holder axis. The sleeve holder is actuated, for example, by a rotary actuator arranged on the housing. The rotation of the sleeve holder allows the drive screw arranged inside the sleeve to be removed by gravity. Therefore, a compact system is provided.

[0021] In one embodiment, the transfer device can be translated relative to the housing along the transfer axis between a takeover position and a handover position. The transfer device can separate a drive screw from the plurality of drive screws and transfer the drive screw to the sleeve. Thus, the transfer device ensures two different functions. More specifically, the takeover position is when the transfer station is near the magazine and the handover position is when the transfer station is near the sleeve holder.

[0022] In one embodiment, the holder axis is orthogonal to the transfer axis. The transfer axis and the holder axis may also be orthogonal to the vertical axis. This reduces the size of the transfer station.

[0023] In one embodiment, the sleeve holder includes a holder housing connected to a housing via a first pivot. The holder housing has a first wall, a second wall, and a spring-loaded piece, the first wall having a cutout portion for accommodating the sleeve holder, and the periphery of the cutout portion is provided with a locking profile, the locking profile being suitable for applying a counter torque when assembling and disassembling the sleeve, the second wall being directly connected to the housing via the first pivot, and the spring-loaded piece being rotatably connected to the holder housing. The sleeve of the engagement tool is easily accommodated in the cutout portion and connected to the cutout portion.

[0024] In one embodiment, the magazine is a track, the track comprising a base and two flanges extending from each side of the base, wherein the track extends longitudinally along a track axis, wherein the track axis is oriented at an angle between 45 and 85 degrees relative to a vertical axis. The track is inclined to utilize gravity and load the drive screw in the transfer device.

[0025] In one embodiment, the transfer device comprises a slide having a groove suitable for receiving a drive screw, and wherein the slide translates along a horizontal axis orthogonal to the vertical axis. The groove is suitable for receiving a drive screw, thereby allowing a drive screw to be separated from a plurality of drive screws arranged in the magazine.

[0026] In one embodiment, the slide is movable into the transfer housing, the transfer housing having a bottom with an opening, and wherein the opening is arranged to face the sleeve holder. The opening is aligned with the sleeve holder so that when the sleeve holder receives the sleeve, the opening is aligned with the sleeve and the drive screw can fall from the slide into the sleeve.

[0027] In one embodiment, the transfer station comprises a collection tray for collecting the used drive screws, wherein the collection tray is arranged below and facing the sleeve holder, so that when the sleeve holder is in the release position, the drive screw can fall from the sleeve into the collection tray. In another embodiment, the released drive screws can be collected in another magazine for eventual reuse at a later time.

[0028] The invention also relates to a system comprising a transfer station and a joining tool, the joining tool having a drive screw and a drive screw sleeve, and wherein the sleeve holder and the drive screw sleeve have complementary locking profiles. For example, the sleeve and the sleeve holder of the tool have multi-toothed geometries that match each other. The multi-toothed structure applies a counter torque during assembly and disassembly.

[0029] In one embodiment, the sleeve holder is resiliently movable along a vertical axis. This allows the complementary profiles to mate with each other.

[0030] In one embodiment, the housing comprises a centering and / or guiding element to guide the engagement tool so that the sleeve is aligned with the sleeve holder. In one embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of drive screws arranged in the cartridge, wherein each of the drive screws comprises a shaft and a flange, and wherein the flange is supported by the cartridge and the shaft protrudes from the cartridge, and wherein the shaft extends parallel to the vertical axis. The drive screws are suspended and easily guided within the cartridge.

[0031] Finally, the invention relates to a method for replacing a drive screw of a joining tool, comprising the steps of: providing a joining tool having a first drive screw and a drive screw sleeve, providing a transfer station according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one second drive screw is arranged in the magazine, moving the joining tool so that the drive screw sleeve is inserted into the sleeve holder, locking the drive screw sleeve to the sleeve holder, separating the drive screw sleeve and the first drive screw from the rest of the joining tool, and removing the joining tool without the drive screw sleeve and the first drive screw. Move to a non-zero distance from the sleeve holder, the drive screw sleeve and the first drive screw, move the sleeve holder to the release position so that the first drive screw is released from the drive screw sleeve, move the sleeve holder to the filling position, move the second drive screw from the magazine to the drive screw sleeve, move the sleeve holder to the attachment position, connect the joining tool to the drive screw sleeve, release the drive screw sleeve from the sleeve holder so that the joining tool can perform at least one joining operation using the second drive screw.

[0032] This method allows for easy and fast fully automated replacement of the drive screw from the joining tool.

[0033] In one embodiment, the sleeve holder is rotated upward 180 degrees. In one embodiment, the drive screw is lifted within the sleeve by a spring loaded piece to allow the male hexagonal pin of the engagement tool to engage the female hexagonal feature of the drive screw. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments provided as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] In the attached picture:

[0036] Figure 1shows a perspective view of a transfer station and a schematically shown bonding tool according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A detailed view of the sleeve holder and adjacent structure of the transfer station is shown;

[0038] Figure 3 A method suitable for use in a bonding tool and capable of being stored in a Figure 1 A perspective view of the drive screw in the transfer station is shown;

[0039] Figure 4 shows a suitable Figure 3 A perspective view of the sleeve of the drive screw is shown;

[0040] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 a perspective view of a transfer station shown with a bonding tool connected to the transfer station in a first position;

[0041] Figure 5B When the bonding tool is Figure 5A A detailed view of the sleeve holder when connected to the transfer station in the first position shown;

[0042] Fig. 6A yes Figure 1 a perspective view of the transfer station shown with the bonding tool connected to the transfer station in a second position;

[0043] Figure 6B shows that when the bonding tool is Fig. 6A The sleeve holder is shown in a second position when connected to the transfer station;

[0044] Figure 7 A sleeve holder is shown holding a sleeve of an engagement tool;

[0045] Fig. 8A yes Figure 1 a perspective view of a transfer station shown with the sleeve connected to the sleeve holder and the remainder of the engagement tool disconnected from the transfer station;

[0046] Figure 8B A sleeve holder is shown holding a sleeve, the remainder of the engagement tool being spaced apart from the sleeve, and the sleeve including a drive screw;

[0047] Fig. 9 The sleeve holder is shown in a released position with the drive screw removed from the sleeve;

[0048] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A transfer station is shown in which a sleeve holder holds an empty sleeve back to the attachment position;

[0049] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A transfer station is shown with the sleeve holder in a filling position;

[0050] Fig.12 The sleeve holder is shown in Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The transfer station is shown in the filling position with a new drive screw inserted into the sleeve;

[0051] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B A transfer station is shown with the sleeve holder in an attached position;

[0052] Fig.14 An engagement tool is shown reassembled onto a sleeve with a new drive screw, with a sleeve retainer holding the sleeve during assembly;

[0053] Fig.15 The sleeve holder is shown releasing the sleeve to allow the joining tool with a new drive screw to continue the joining process;

[0054] Fig.16 The joining tool is shown disconnected from the transfer station;

[0055] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The centering and guiding elements of the transfer station are shown in more detail;

[0056] Fig.18 The second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 A perspective view of the transfer station shown;

[0057] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A detailed view of the sleeve holder of the transfer station is shown;

[0058] Fig. 20 The drive screw is shown released from the sleeve and located in the container box. Fig.18 The transfer station shown;

[0059] Fig.21 The sleeve holder holds an empty sleeve. Fig.18 The transfer station shown;

[0060] Fig. 22 Shows Fig.18 A filling unit of the transfer station is shown, which faces the sleeve to reload a new drive screw in the sleeve;

[0061] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 A detailed view of a portion of a filling station is shown in which a drawer is adapted to move a drive screw from a magazine to the drive screw;

[0062] Fig.24 Shown after refilling ready to connect to the rest of the bonding tool Fig.18 The transfer station shown;

[0063] Fig.25 shows a perspective view of a transfer station and a bonding tool according to a third embodiment;

[0064] Fig.26 Shows Fig.25 A front view of a transfer station is shown showing a portion of a bonding tool. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Figure 1 , 2 , 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7, 8A, 8B, 9, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, 12, 13A, 13B, 14, 15, 16, 17A, 17B show a first embodiment of a transfer station according to the present invention.

[0066] Figure 1 A transfer station 10 and a portion of a bonding tool 12 are shown. The purpose of the transfer station 10 is to store a plurality of drive screws 14 and to transfer or load one of the plurality of drive screws 14 to the bonding tool 12 when needed. For example, a new drive screw 14 may be needed when the current drive screw 14 used by the bonding tool 12 is worn, damaged, has completed a predetermined number of bonding operations, or does not have the required geometry for its next bonding operation. The transfer station 10 is adapted to unload the damaged or old drive screw and replace it with a new drive screw so that the bonding tool 12 can continue its bonding process.

[0067] The joining tool 12 comprises in a known manner a tool head H having a drive screw sleeve 15. The drive screw sleeve 15 comprises a first end connected to the rest of the tool and a free second end. The drive screw sleeve 15 extends longitudinally between the first end and the second end. A drive screw 14 is arranged inside the drive screw sleeve 15. The drive screw 14 partially protrudes from the second end of the drive screw sleeve 15. The drive screw 14 is, for example, Figure 3 14. The drive screw 14 extends longitudinally and includes a shaft 141 and a flange 142. A threaded section 143 is arranged at a first end of the shaft 141. The flange 142 is arranged at a second end of the shaft opposite to the first end. The flange 142 extends radially outward from the shaft 141. The threaded section 141 (or at least part of the threaded section) extends to the outside of the drive screw sleeve 15. Figure 4The drive screw sleeve 15 is shown in more detail. The drive screw sleeve 15 is adapted to accommodate the drive screw 14. The drive screw sleeve 15 has a substantially cylindrical body, with a first opening 151 at a first end adapted to insert the drive screw 14, and a second opening 152 at a second end. The threaded section 143 of the drive screw 14 protrudes from the second opening 152. Figure 4 As shown, the cross section of the cylindrical body can have two different diameters. A sleeve locking profile 154 is arranged on the cylindrical body near the first opening 151. The sleeve locking profile 154 is adapted to engage with a complementary locking profile on the transfer station 10. The sleeve can be adapted to and can depend on the type of engagement tool, screw, ...

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, the transfer station 10 comprises a housing 16 extending longitudinally in height along a vertical axis X. The housing 16 extends in width along a horizontal axis Y. The housing also extends in depth along a depth axis Z. The housing 16 is intended to be fixed to a horizontal support S or to the ground. A sleeve holder 18 is connected to the housing 16.

[0069] exist Figure 2 . The sleeve holder 18 can be better shown in FIG. The sleeve holder 18 includes, for example, movable jaws J1, J2 adapted to move between an open position and a closed position. The movement of the sleeve holder or jaws can be controlled by an actuator. The jaws can be moved translationally or rotationally from a closed position to an open position, or translationally or rotationally from an open position to a closed position. The sleeve holder 18 is mounted on a carriage 58. The sleeve holder 18 (more specifically the jaws) is rotatably mounted on the carriage 58. For example, a first pivot is arranged between the jaws (or sleeve holder) and the carriage. The first pivot 34 allows, for example, a 180-degree rotation. In other embodiments, a 360-degree rotation can also be achieved. More generally, the sleeve holder 18 is rotatably movable relative to the housing 16 around the holder axis. The carriage 58 to which the sleeve holder is fixed can move relative to the housing 16. More specifically, the carriage can be translated along the transfer axis. Thus, the sleeve holder 18 can be translated and moved along the transfer axis by the bracket. The transfer axis Xt is parallel to the holder axis Xh. The housing 16 includes a first portion 161 suitable for being fixed to the support S and a second portion 162 above the first portion and fixed to the first portion. The first portion includes a column or foot 163 contacting the support S. The first portion is fixed to the second portion by an elastic connector 60. More specifically, four connection points are provided between the first portion 161 and the second portion 162, and springs are provided at some or each of the connection points to allow the second portion 162 to be flexible relative to the first portion 161 (tolerance compensation). More specifically, the second portion 162 can be moved relative to the first portion in the direction of the vertical axis X.

[0070] The bracket 58 is fixed, for example, to the first part 161. Therefore, the sleeve holder 18 or the claw clamps J1, J2 are also fixed to the first part. The bracket 58 fixed to the first part can be moved translationally along the transfer axis Xt below the second part 162. The second part 162 is provided with a centering and guiding element 62. When docking to the transfer station 10 is required, the centering and guiding element 62 guides and centers the bonding tool, thereby guiding the bonding tool to its correct docking position. Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The centering and guiding element 62 is shown in more detail. For example, the housing 16 is provided with rollers 62 for guiding and centering the joining head of the joining tool. For example, four rollers 62 are provided for guiding and centering the joining head so that the joining head is correctly positioned relative to the transfer station 10. It is also possible to place a guide plate 64 (at Fig. 17B 10 (see Figure 10) is fixed to the bonding tool to cooperate with the rollers. The rollers 62 are positioned, for example, at the front of the housing and around a recess 66 suitable for receiving a bonding head so that they can guide the bonding head until the bonding tool is docked to the transfer station 10 and the sleeve 15 is positioned between the claws. The second part 162 of the housing also includes a pin 68, which extends upward from the housing and is suitable for cooperating with a corresponding hole (or bushing) in the bonding tool. The pin 68 facilitates the docking of the bonding tool to the transfer station 10 and avoids undesired movement of the bonding tool during separation of the sleeve from the bonding tool. A stop plate can also be provided on the bonding tool and a stop screw can be provided at the front end of the transfer station 10.

[0071] The transfer station 10 may include a collection tray 38 disposed below the sleeve holder 18 , the collection tray 38 being adapted to receive used drive screws 14 .

[0072] The filling unit 20 is connected to the housing 16. As shown, when viewed along the vertical axis X, the sleeve holder 18 can be arranged between the support S and the filling unit 20. In other words, the filling unit 20 is arranged above the sleeve holder 18. More specifically, the bracket is suitable for moving below the filling unit 20. The filling unit 20 includes a magazine 36 suitable for storing a plurality of drive screws 14. The magazine 36, for example, includes a track 40 having a base 42 and two flanges 44 extending from each side of the base 42. The track 40 extends longitudinally along the track axis Xr and is suitable for receiving a plurality of drive screws 14. The base 42 of the track 40 includes a slot, and the shaft 141 of the drive screw 14 can extend to the outside of the slot. More specifically, the track 40 is suitable for receiving the flange 142 of the drive screw 14, the flange is suitable for contacting the track, and the shaft 141 extends to the outside of the track 40. Therefore, the drive screw 14 is suspended and the shaft of the drive screw 14 extends significantly parallel to the vertical axis X. The length of the track 40 along the track axis Xr is suitable for receiving a plurality of drive screws and depends on the number of drive screws 14 required. The track 40 can be inclined. For example, the track axis Xr is oriented at an angle between 45 degrees and 85 degrees relative to the vertical axis X. The track 40 has a free first end, for example for loading a drive screw, and a second end opposite the first end and connected to the transfer device 46.

[0073] The filling unit 20 also includes a transfer device 46, which is used to transfer a drive screw 14 from the magazine 36 to the drive screw sleeve 15 of the bonding tool when the bonding tool is docked to the transfer station. The transfer device 46 includes, for example, a groove into which the drive screw can fall. The door can be opened so that the drive screw closest to the second end falls into or is transferred to the transfer device. The door can be closed to prevent the last drive screw closest to the second end from entering the transfer device.

[0074] The transfer station 10 as described above is used to replace the drive screw 14 from the bonding tool 12. More specifically, when the drive screw 14 used by the bonding tool 12 does not meet the requirements required for the next bonding operation, the bonding tool 12 can be guided toward the transfer station 10 (e.g., by an industrial robot arm), such as Figure 1 As shown. Figure 2 The transfer station is shown in a "rest" position. To dock the bonding tool 12 to the transfer station 10, the bonding head is positioned above the transfer station with the pins of the transfer station aligned with corresponding holes in the bonding tool. The bonding head is aligned with a recess adapted to receive the bonding head. The bonding tool is then translated along a vertical axis toward the transfer station so that the bonding tool engages the pins and the bonding head cooperates with the rollers, as shown. Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe bonding head is moved downward to a position where the sleeve is arranged between the jaws or at the height of the sleeve holder, and the bonding tool 12 abuts against a portion of the housing of the transfer station, such as Fig. 6A The bonding head of the bonding tool 12 is aligned with the sleeve holder 18 (more specifically the jaws), and the drive screw sleeve (with the drive screw inside) is inserted into the sleeve holder (more specifically between the jaws), as shown. Fig. 6A and 6B The jaws are first in the open position (as shown in Figure 6B 10). The sleeve holder or claw can be moved from an open position to a closed position so that the claw or sleeve holder engages the sleeve locking profile 154 of the sleeve. The second portion of the housing can be resiliently moved downward to allow the sleeve holder and the sleeve to engage each other. A sensor can be provided to ensure the correct positioning of the engagement tool and / or the sleeve relative to the transfer station 10. Figure 7 The cooperation between the sleeve and the sleeve holder is shown in more detail. Once the joining tool is docked to the transfer station and the sleeve holder is engaged with the sleeve, the sleeve can be disconnected or separated from the rest of the joining head. For example, a rotational movement within the joining head can screw the sleeve out of the rest of the joining head, with the sleeve remaining engaged with the sleeve holder. Once the threaded connection between the sleeve or drive screw and the rest of the joining tool (or the upper head of the joining tool) is disconnected, the spindle of the joining tool can be rotated counterclockwise and the upper head of the joining tool can be moved backwards. Once the sleeve has been separated from the rest of the joining head and is securely held in the sleeve holder, the joining tool 12 can be moved back to another position at a (short) distance from the transfer station 10, wherein the drive screw sleeve 15 and the drive screw 14 remain connected to the transfer station 10, as Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The rollers guide the rest of the joining tool or the joining head (ie the joining head without the sleeve and the drive screw) out of the transfer station 10. The sleeve is then in the attached position (the first opening 151 is directed upwards, away from the support).

[0075] In subsequent steps, Fig. 9 As shown, the sleeve holder 18 can be moved from the attached position (corresponding to the first opening 151 pointing upward) to the released position. More specifically, the sleeve holder 18 is rotated by an angle of, for example, 180 degrees, so that the first opening 151 points downward, and the drive screw 14 can fall from the drive screw sleeve 15 (by gravity) into the collection tray 38, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 , Fig. 8A and Figure 8BAs shown, or into any other device suitable for collecting the used drive screw. Once the used drive screw 14 has fallen and the drive screw sleeve 15 is empty, the sleeve holder 18 can be rotated back to its attached position (first opening 151 pointing upwards). A sensor, such as a ring sensor or a proximity switch, can be arranged to confirm that the drive screw has left the sleeve. The sleeve holder 18 is now ready to receive a new drive screw 14 (see Fig.11A and 11B ).

[0076] In order to fill the drive screw sleeve 15 with a new drive screw 14, the filling unit can first separate a drive screw from the plurality of drive screws 14 arranged on the track 40. The sleeve holder 18 is translated from the attachment position to the filling position by the bracket, as shown in FIG. Fig.12 As shown. The filling position corresponds to the retracted position. In the filling position, the first opening 151 points upward and is aligned with the transfer device 46 in order to receive a new drive screw. The sleeve holder and the sleeve are no longer arranged in the recess, but are moved under the second housing part, more specifically under the transfer device 48. The new drive screw 14 can fall into the sleeve holder by gravity. A sensor or proximity switch can be arranged to confirm that the new drive screw has been inserted into the sleeve.

[0077] The hole 56 of the transfer housing 53 is aligned with the first opening 151 and the longitudinal axis of the drive screw sleeve 15, for example. A new drive screw 14 can be dropped into the drive screw sleeve 15 ( Fig.12 ).

[0078] The sleeve holder can then be moved together with the drive screw sleeve 15 and the new drive screw 14 back to the attached position, as shown in FIG. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B The engagement tool 12 can be reengaged with the drive screw sleeve by moving the sleeve holder forward using the centering and guiding elements, as shown. Fig.14 shown. Fig.15 The engagement tool is shown engaged with a sleeve including a new drive screw. Fig.16 As shown, the bonding tool can return to perform the next bonding operation.

[0079] exist Figures 18 to 24 In the second embodiment shown, the sleeve holder 18 and the filling unit 20 are connected to the housing 16. More specifically, the housing 16 can have a distinct parallelepiped shape, and the sleeve holder 18 is arranged on one side of the housing 16, wherein the filling unit 20 is arranged on the opposite side of the housing 16 and / or above the sleeve holder 18. Fig.18 shows a perspective view of a transfer station 10 according to a second embodiment, Fig.18 The transfer station has a sleeve holder that has been engaged with the sleeve of the engagement tool.

[0080] like Fig.19 As shown, the sleeve holder 18 includes a holder housing 22, which has a first wall 24 with a cutout portion 26 and a second wall 28 connected to the housing 16 and extending in a longitudinal section taken along the vertical axis X. The third wall 30 is orthogonal to or significantly orthogonal to the second wall 28. The second wall 28 is fixed to the first wall 24 at a first end. At the free end, the third wall 30 is fixed to the second wall 28. The spring-loaded piece 32 is rotatably connected to the third wall 30. More specifically, the spring-loaded piece 32 is connected to the free end of the third wall 30 opposite to the second wall 28. The spring-loaded piece 30 extends obliquely relative to the second wall 28 in the set position. The spring-loaded piece 32 can move in the direction of the third wall 30 under constraint, and is suitable for returning to its set position due to the action of the spring. The cutout portion 26 is provided with a holder locking profile 261. As shown Fig.19 As shown, the retainer locking profile 261 is adapted to engage the sleeve locking profile 154 as described above. The sleeve locking profile 154 and / or the retainer locking profile 261 may include a notch or any other mechanism that forms a mechanical lock during rotation and / or translation between the drive screw sleeve 15 and the drive screw 14. For example, a multi-tooth profile is provided. The retainer housing 22 is connected to the housing 16 via the first pivot 34. The first pivot 34 and the retainer housing 22 form the sleeve retainer 18. More specifically, the first pivot extends between the housing 16 and the second wall 28. Therefore, the sleeve retainer 18 (and the retainer housing 22) is rotatably connected to the housing 16.

[0081] The transfer station 10 may include a collection tray 38 disposed below the sleeve holder 18 and adapted to receive the used drive screws 14. In another embodiment (not shown), a second cartridge may be provided and connected to the sleeve holder to receive the used drive screws.

[0082] The filling unit 20 is connected to the housing 16. Figures 18 to 24As shown, when viewed along the vertical axis X, the sleeve holder 18 can be arranged between the support S and the filling unit 20. In other words, the filling unit 20 is arranged above the sleeve holder 18. The filling unit 20 includes a magazine 36 suitable for storing a plurality of drive screws 14. The magazine 36, for example, includes a track 40 having a base 42 and two flanges 44 extending from each side of the base 42. The track 40 extends longitudinally along the track axis Xr and is suitable for receiving a plurality of drive screws 14. The base 42 of the track 40 includes a slot, and the shaft 141 of the drive screw 14 can extend to the outside of the slot. More specifically, the track 40 is suitable for receiving the flange 142 of the drive screw 14, so that the flange 142 of the drive screw 14 abuts against the base of the track 40, and the shaft 141 extends to the outside of the track 40. Therefore, the drive screw 14 is suspended, and the shaft of the drive screw 14 extends significantly parallel to the vertical axis X. The length of the track 40 along the track axis Xr is suitable for receiving a plurality of drive screws and depends on the number of drive screws 14 required. The track 40 can be inclined. For example, the track axis Xr is oriented at an angle between 45 degrees and 85 degrees relative to the vertical axis X. The track 40 has a free first end, for example for loading a drive screw, and a second end opposite the first end and connected to the transfer device 46.

[0083] The filling unit 20 also includes a transfer device 46 for transferring a drive screw 14 from the magazine 36 to the drive screw sleeve 15. The transfer device 46 includes a drawer 48 that can be translated between the receiving position and the handover position, for example. In the receiving position, the drawer 48 faces the second end of the track 40 (so that the drawer can receive the drive screw that falls from the track by gravity), and in the handover position, the drawer can extend above the sleeve holder. The drawer slides from the receiving position to the handover position and slides back to the receiving position from the handover position. For example, an actuator 50 controls the movement of the drawer 48. Finally, the drawer 48 can have a placement position and can be elastically returned to the placement position. In another embodiment, the movement of the drawer 48 is completely controlled by the actuator 50. The drawer 48 includes a groove 52 suitable for accommodating a drive screw 14. The drawer 48 slides in the transfer housing 53. The filling unit 20 and / or the drawer can be translated between the retracted position and the filling position. For example, the second actuator 54 can move the filling unit 20 and / or the drawer 48 from the retracted position to the filling position. In the retracted position, the drawer 48 is not aligned with the sleeve holder 18, and in the filling position, the drawer 48 is aligned with the sleeve holder 18 in the longitudinal direction. The transfer housing 53 includes a hole 56 suitable for receiving the drive screw 14. More specifically, the groove 52 in the drawer 48 has no base, and when the drawer 48 faces the hole 56, the drive screw 14 in the drawer 48 can fall in the direction of the sleeve holder 18 due to gravity. More specifically, the drive screw 14 can fall significantly along the longitudinal axis X.

[0084] Fig.25 and Fig.26 A transfer station 10 and a bonding tool 12 according to a third embodiment are shown. Fig.25 and Fig.26 The transfer station 10 includes a filling unit of the second embodiment and a sleeve holder having a claw clamp similar to the first embodiment. The transfer station 10 includes a shell 16 extending longitudinally along a vertical axis X. The shell 16 is intended to be fixed to a vertical support S or the ground. The sleeve holder 18 and the filling unit 20 are connected to the shell 16. More specifically, the sleeve holder 18 is arranged below the filling unit 20. For example, the shell 16 includes a structure of a hollow parallelepiped with a cavity, and the sleeve holder is partially arranged in the cavity. The filling unit is arranged above the hollow parallelepiped.

[0085] like Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, the sleeve retainer 18 includes a first claw clamp J1 and a second claw clamp J2 adapted to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. For example, the claw clamp actuator A moves the first claw clamp and / or the second claw clamp between the locked position and the unlocked position. The claw clamp actuator A can move the claw clamps J1 and J2 to the two positions, or one of the positions can be a placement position, so that when the actuator does not apply any force on the claw clamps, they elastically return to the placement position. Below the claw clamps J1 and J2, the sleeve retainer also includes a support member 56. The support member 56 is adapted to receive the end portion of the drive screw protruding from the second opening 152 of the drive screw sleeve 15. For example, the support member 56 can also receive a part of the drive screw sleeve 15. As shown in the figure, the support member 56 is cylindrical with a cavity. The cavity is a blind hole. Once the drive screw sleeve (and the drive screw) is inserted into the support member 56, the claw clamp moves from the unlocked position to the locked position. The drive screw sleeve 15 is held by the claw clamps J1 and J2. The cavity includes a cylindrical pressure spring to push the drive screw upward in the drive screw sleeve. Therefore, when the drive screw sleeve 15 is held by the claw clamps J1, J2, the engagement tool 12 can be unlocked so that only the drive screw sleeve and the drive screw remain connected to the transfer station. The cylindrical pressure spring then pushes the drive screw upward in the drive screw sleeve. The sleeve holder also includes a first pivot 24 so that the support member and the claw clamp can be rotatably moved between a filling position and a release position. More specifically, in the filling position, the support member 56 is arranged between the ground and the claw clamps J1, J2, wherein in the release position, the claw clamps J1, J2 are arranged between the ground and the support member 56.

[0086] As disclosed in the first and second embodiments above, the transfer station 10 may include a collection tray 38 disposed below the sleeve holder 18 and adapted to receive used drive screws 14 .

[0087] The transfer station of the second embodiment operates specifically as follows. The transfer station according to the third embodiment operates according to similar steps.

[0088] When the drive screw 14 used by the bonding tool 12 does not meet the requirements required for the next bonding operation, the bonding tool 12 can be guided toward the transfer station 10 (for example, by an industrial robot arm). The bonding head of the bonding tool 12 is first aligned with the sleeve holder 18 (more specifically, the cutout portion 28), and the drive screw sleeve (with the drive screw inside) is inserted into the sleeve holder (more specifically, the cutout portion) so that the sleeve locking profile 154 engages the retainer locking profile 261. The sleeve holder 18 is able to elastically move downward to allow the sleeve locking profile 154 and the retainer locking profile 261 (for example, a multi-tooth profile) to engage with each other. Then, the distal end of the drive screw 14 (protruding from the drive screw sleeve) contacts, for example, a spring-loaded sheet 32 ​​(such as a spring-loaded sheet 32). Fig.19 ). The sleeve locking profile 154 and / or the retainer locking profile 261 are adapted to exert a counter torque during assembly and disassembly of the drive screw sleeve 15. The drive screw sleeve 15 and the drive screw 14 are then separated or disconnected from the rest of the bonding head, so that the bonding tool 12 can be moved back to another position at a (short) distance from the transfer station 10, wherein the drive screw sleeve 15 and the drive screw 14 remain connected to the transfer station 10, as shown. Fig.18 During this step, the filling unit 20 is in a retracted position (ie, the filling unit is retracted relative to the sleeve holder) so that the engagement head can easily access the sleeve holder 18 .

[0089] In subsequent steps, Fig.19 As shown, the spring loaded piece 32 can exert a force on the distal end of the drive screw 14 protruding from the drive screw sleeve 15, so that the drive screw 14 is loosened in the drive screw sleeve 15. The sleeve holder 18 can then be moved from the receiving position (which can correspond to the above-mentioned filling position) to the release position. More specifically, the sleeve holder 18 is rotated through an angle of, for example, 180 degrees, so that the drive screw 14 can fall (by gravity) from the drive screw sleeve 15 into the collection tray 38, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20 As shown, or fall into any other device suitable for collecting the used drive screw. Once the used drive screw 14 has fallen and the drive screw sleeve 15 is empty, the sleeve holder 18 can be turned back to the filling position (such as Fig.21 The sleeve holder 18 is now ready to receive a new drive screw 14 .

[0090] In order to fill the drive screw sleeve 15 with a new drive screw 14, the drawer 48 can first separate a drive screw from the plurality of drive screws 14 arranged on the rail 40 (see, for example, Fig.23). More specifically, the new drive screw 14 falls into the groove 52 of the drawer 48 due to gravity. The drawer 48 is then actuated from the receiving position to the handover position (see arrow A).

[0091] Subsequently or simultaneously, the filling unit 20 and / or the drawer 48 are moved by the second actuator 54 so that the filling unit 20 and / or the drawer 48 are moved from the retracted position to the filling position. In the filling position, the filling unit 20 and / or the drawer 48 are arranged above the sleeve holder 18 (see Fig. 22 ).

[0092] When the filling unit 20 and / or the drawer 48 is in the filling position and the drawer 48 is in the transfer position, the hole 56 of the transfer housing 53 is aligned with the groove 52 and the longitudinal axis of the drive screw sleeve 15. A new drive screw 14 can fall from the groove 52 into the drive screw sleeve 15 ( Fig. 22 ).

[0093] Then, the filling unit 20 returns to the retracted position, as shown in FIG. Fig.24 As shown, in this way, the engagement tool 12 can return to reengage the drive screw sleeve 15 and the new drive screw 14. After reengagement, the engagement tool 12 can disconnect the drive screw sleeve from the sleeve holder 18 and return to perform the next engagement operation.

[0094] Reference numerals:

[0095] Transfer station 10

[0096] Joining tool 12

[0097] Drive screw 14

[0098] Axis 141

[0099] Flange 142

[0100] Thread segment 143

[0101] Drive screw sleeve 15

[0102] First opening 151

[0103] Second opening 152

[0104] Sleeve locking profile 154

[0105] Vertical axis X

[0106] Housing 16

[0107] Part 1161

[0108] Part II162

[0109] Sleeve holder 18

[0110] Filling unit 20

[0111] Retainer housing 22

[0112] First Wall 24

[0113] Cutout 26

[0114] Retainer locking profile 261

[0115] Second Wall 28

[0116] Third Wall 30

[0117] Spring loaded piece 32

[0118] First pivot 34

[0119] Material box 36

[0120] Collection tray 38

[0121] Track 40

[0122] Base 42

[0123] Flange 44

[0124] Track axis Xr

[0125] Transfer device 46

[0126] Drawer 48

[0127] Actuator 50

[0128] Groove 52

[0129] Transfer housing 53

[0130] Hole 56

[0131] Second actuator 54

[0132] The first and second claws J1, J2

[0133] Claw Actuator A

[0134] Support 56

[0135] Elastic connector 60

[0136] Bracket 58

[0137] Transfer axis Xt

[0138] Cage axis Xh

[0139] Centering and guiding element 62

[0140] Guide plate 64

[0141] Notch 66

[0142] Pin 68

[0143] Foot 163

[0144] First part housing 161

[0145] Second part housing 162

Claims

1. A transfer station for storing a plurality of drive screws, wherein one drive screw can be removed from the transfer station by a joining tool, the joining tool comprising a sleeve adapted to receive the drive screw to perform at least one joining operation using the drive screw, the transfer station comprising: a housing extending longitudinally in height along a vertical axis X, in width along a horizontal axis Y and in depth along a depth axis Z, a sleeve holder movably connected to the housing, the sleeve holder being adapted to hold and release the sleeve of the engagement tool, a material box, the material box is suitable for storing a plurality of the drive screws, in The cartridge holder is movable between an attached position, a filled position, and a released position.

2. The transfer station according to claim 1, wherein: The sleeve holder is rotationally movable about a holder axis relative to the housing between the release position and the attachment position.

3. The transfer station according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sleeve holder is translationally movable along a transfer axis relative to the housing between the filling position and the attachment position.

4. A transfer station as claimed in claims 2 and 3, wherein: The holder axis is parallel to the transfer axis.

5. The transfer station according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The socket holder includes a jaw clamp adapted to receive a socket of a joining tool.

6. The transfer station according to claim 5, wherein: The claw clamp is mounted on a bracket, and the bracket is capable of translational movement relative to the housing.

7. The transfer station according to claim 6, wherein: The claw clamp is connected to the bracket via a first pivot.

8. The transfer station of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the magazine comprises a track extending longitudinally along a track axis, and wherein the track axis is oriented at an angle of between 45 and 85 degrees relative to the vertical axis.

9. The transfer station according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: A transfer device is provided at one end of the track, and when the sleeve holder is in the filling position, the transfer device is arranged between the track and the sleeve holder.

10. The transfer station as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 further includes a collection tray for collecting used drive screws, wherein the collection tray is arranged below the sleeve holder and faces the sleeve holder, so that when the sleeve holder is in the release position, the drive screw can fall from the sleeve into the collection tray.

11. The transfer station according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The housing includes a first structure resiliently assembled to a second structure.

12. A system comprising a transfer station according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and a joining tool having a drive screw and a drive screw sleeve, and wherein the sleeve holder and the drive screw sleeve have complementary locking profiles.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein: The housing comprises centering and / or guiding elements to guide the engagement tool so as to align the sleeve with the sleeve holder.

14. The system of claim 12 or 13, further comprising a plurality of drive screws arranged in the cartridge, wherein: Each of the drive screws comprises a shaft and a flange, and wherein the flange is supported by the cartridge and the shaft protrudes from the cartridge, and wherein the shaft extends parallel to the vertical axis.

15. A method for replacing a drive screw of a joining tool, comprising the steps of: providing a joining tool having a first drive screw disposed in a drive screw sleeve, A transfer station as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 is provided, wherein at least one second drive screw is arranged in the magazine, moving the engagement tool to insert the drive screw sleeve into the sleeve holder, locking the drive screw sleeve to the sleeve holder, separating the drive screw sleeve and the first drive screw from the remainder of the engagement tool, moving the engagement tool without the drive screw sleeve and the first drive screw to a non-zero distance from the transfer station, moving the sleeve holder to the release position such that the first drive screw is released from the drive screw sleeve, moving the sleeve holder to the filling position, moving a second drive screw from the magazine to the drive screw sleeve, moving the sleeve holder to the attachment position, connecting the engagement tool to the drive screw sleeve, Releasing the drive screw sleeve from the sleeve holder allows the joining tool to perform at least one joining operation using the second drive screw.

Images