Automatic production system and method for metal workpiece anodic oxidation process

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of mechanical part machining counting, in particular to an automatic production system and method for a metal workpiece anodic oxidation process, and the production system comprises a material frame for hanging a hanging tool, an AGV trolley for transferring the material frame, an up-down skeet system and a crown block system; the top of the hanger is provided with a front hook and a rear hook, the inner side of the front hook is provided with a power connection sheet, and the front hook is provided with a set screw; the upper and lower skeet system comprises a track arranged in the front-back direction, a skeet temporary storage frame, a hanging tool locking system, a feeding and discharging wharf and a skeet transferring system, wherein the skeet temporary storage frame, the hanging tool locking system and the feeding and discharging wharf are sequentially arranged along the track from front to back. The hanger locking system comprises a servo system and an electric wrench, and the servo system drives the electric wrench to align with and tighten / unscrew a set screw of the hanger; the crown block system comprises a high-altitude track and a carrier moving along the high-altitude track, and the carrier can grab / release the skeet. By means of the system, flying target up-down operation of the hanging tool can be fully automatically carried out in the anodic oxidation production process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of mechanical parts processing counting, and in particular to an automated production system and method for anodizing process of metal workpieces. Background Art

[0002] Home appliances and digital 3C products often use metal, especially aluminum alloy, as their shells. Anodizing is a common metal surface modification process that can improve the hardness and wear resistance of the metal surface and also achieve a more beautiful appearance.

[0003] The production process of metal parts shell generally includes molding, surface sandblasting or brushing, surface cleaning pre-treatment, anodizing, and post-treatment.

[0004] Parts can be formed by stamping, casting, extrusion, etc. CNC processing can be used for cases with high precision requirements. The surface of the formed parts is more likely to be scratched and damaged, and burrs are also likely to appear on the processed surface. These defects do not affect the structural strength and mechanical properties of the parts, but have a greater impact on the appearance. Therefore, if there are high requirements for the appearance of the parts, surface treatment will be performed, usually sandblasting and wire drawing.

[0005] During the forming and surface treatment stages of parts, the parts are independent of each other. For some high-value parts, they will be placed separately in a special plastic frame, such as the shell of mobile phones and tablet computers. During anodizing, multiple isolated parts need to be fixed to the hanger, and then several hangers together with the parts are set on the target, and the target drives the parts through the anodizing process pool in turn.

[0006] In the prior art, the process of anodizing requires manual operation by operators, or semi-automatic operation by operators with auxiliary equipment. Since the metal parts need to be baked in the final stage of post-processing of anodizing, the temperature of the entire target, including the hanger and the workpiece, is very high during the process of anodizing. It is dangerous for workers to operate the equipment at close range to perform the target operation, and the working environment is relatively bad. Therefore, a production line that can automatically perform the target operation is needed. Summary of the invention

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned deficiencies or defects in the prior art, the present invention provides an automated up and down target flying system for anodizing of metal workpieces, which can fully automatically perform up and down target flying and anodizing production on materials without the need for manual operation by operators.

[0008] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the first aspect of the present invention provides an automated production system for anodizing process of metal parts, including a material rack for mounting hangers, an AGV trolley for transferring material racks, an upper and lower target flying system and an overhead crane system;

[0009] The top of the hanger is provided with two hooks, front and rear, wherein the rear hook is hung on the hanging point of the material rack, and the front hook is used to connect the flying target; a power connection piece is arranged on the inner side of the front hook, and a set screw is arranged on the front hook, and the set screw presses the power connection piece to press the power connection piece on the flying target;

[0010] The AGV transports the material rack to the loading and unloading dock of the upper target system, and takes the material rack away from the loading and unloading dock of the lower target system;

[0011] The upper and lower target systems are divided into an upper target system arranged at the feeding position of the anodizing production line and a lower target system arranged at the discharging position of the anodizing production line; the upper and lower target systems include tracks arranged in the front and rear directions, target temporary storage racks, a hanger locking system and a loading and unloading dock arranged in sequence along the tracks from front to back, and a target transfer system that can move along the tracks; the target transfer system can move to the target temporary storage rack to grab the target, then move along the track to the loading and unloading dock, exchange the hanger with the material rack on the loading and unloading dock, and then transfer and release it to the target temporary storage rack; the hanger locking system includes a servo system and an electric wrench, and the servo system drives the electric wrench to align and tighten / loosen the set screws of the hanger;

[0012] The overhead crane system comprises an overhead track and a vehicle moving along the overhead track, and the vehicle can catch / release the flying target.

[0013] In some embodiments,

[0014] The high-altitude track is in a closed loop, and passes through the temporary storage rack of the upper target system, the anodizing production line, the temporary storage rack of the lower target system, and then returns to the temporary storage rack of the upper target system.

[0015] The carrier is provided with an elevator, the execution end of which is provided with a grabbing structure cooperating with the flying target, and the elevator can carry the flying target to move up and down;

[0016] The carrier grabs full targets with hangers from the target temporary storage rack of the upper target system, and releases them to the target temporary storage rack of the lower target system via the anodizing production line; and grabs empty targets from the target temporary storage rack of the lower target system, and releases them to the target temporary storage rack of the upper target system. In some embodiments, multiple loading and unloading docks are arranged side by side on the left and right, and the loading and unloading docks include positioning devices and locking devices. The AGV trolley carries the material rack to the loading and unloading dock, and the positioning device limits the material rack to the designed position, and the locking device connects and fixes the material rack.

[0017] In some embodiments,

[0018] The material rack includes a frame body, the top of the frame body is provided with a crossbeam, hanging points are arranged at intervals along the crossbeam, and the hanging points cooperate with the rear hooks of the hanger; when the material rack is parked at the loading and unloading dock, the crossbeam is arranged along the left and right directions.

[0019] In some embodiments, the target includes an upper crossbeam, a copper bar disposed below the upper crossbeam and fixedly disposed parallel to the crossbeam, and hanging points disposed at intervals along the copper bar, the hanging points cooperating with the front hook of the hanger;

[0020] Both ends of the upper crossbeam are provided with a first connection structure, the carrier of the overhead crane system cooperates with the first connection structure to grab / release the flying target, and the electrical contact of the carrier contacts the copper bar and makes the copper bar electrified;

[0021] An elastic material connecting piece is arranged on the inner side of the front hook of the hanger, one end of which is fixed on the front hook, and the tail of the set screw supports the middle of the connecting piece. When the set screw is tightened, the connecting piece is pushed toward the copper bar and pressed against the copper bar.

[0022] The two ends of the copper bar are provided with a second connection structure, the target temporary storage rack includes a plurality of front and rear storage stations, the storage station includes two left and right brackets, and the top of the bracket cooperates with the second connection structure to position and fix the target;

[0023] The second connection structure includes a wedge-shaped positioning block, which is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom; the top of the bracket is provided with a slot that matches the wedge-shaped positioning block.

[0024] In some embodiments, the target transfer system includes a frame, a walking mechanism matched with a track is arranged at the bottom of the frame, and two left and right lifting modules are arranged at the top of the frame, and the top of the lifting module has a V-shaped lifting groove matched with a wedge-shaped positioning block on the target;

[0025] In the target loading system, the traveling mechanism drives the target transfer system to move to the right below the target temporary storage rack, the V-shaped lifting groove is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block of the empty target, the lifting modules on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target away from the target temporary storage rack; the traveling mechanism moves forward and backward and cooperates with the lifting module to move up and down to move the copper bar of the target to the right below the front hook of the hanger on the material rack, the lifting module pushes the target upward, the copper bar of the target is first stuck in the front hook of the hanger, and then drives the hanger upward to leave the temporary storage rack;

[0026] In the lower target system, the walking mechanism drives the target to be transferred and moved to the bottom of the target temporary storage rack, the V-shaped lifting groove is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block full of targets, the lifting modules on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target and the hanger away from the target temporary storage rack; the walking mechanism moves forward and backward and cooperates with the lifting module to move up and down to move the rear hook of the hanger on the target to the top of the material rack hanging point, the lifting module moves downward and the rear hook of the hanger is stuck in the material rack hanging point, the lifting module continues to move downward, leaving the material rack on the material rack, and the target is separated from the hanger. In some embodiments, the target is provided with an identification code; the bracket is provided with a first barcode scanner for scanning the identification code on the target, and the target transfer system has a second barcode scanner for scanning the identification code on the target; the material rack is provided with an identification code, and the loading and unloading dock is provided with a third barcode scanner for scanning the identification code of the material rack;

[0027] The track includes two parallel left and right tracks. The left and right sides of the frame are respectively provided with running wheels to cooperate with the track, and the running wheels are connected to the driving motor.

[0028] The lifting module includes a lifting platform, a V-shaped lifting groove is arranged on the lifting platform, the lifting platform is connected to the frame through a guide rod, the guide rod is vertically arranged and slidably connected to the frame; a pushing assembly is also arranged on the frame for pushing the lifting platform up and down, the pushing assembly includes a screw, a screw nut and a servo motor that cooperate with each other, the top of the screw pushes the lifting platform, the screw nut is rotatably installed on the frame, and the servo motor drives the screw nut to rotate through a transmission mechanism.

[0029] In some embodiments, the hanger locking system includes a frame, a servo system is arranged on the frame, an electric wrench is installed on the execution end of the servo system, and the servo system drives the electric wrench to move in the up-down, left-right, and front-back directions;

[0030] The servo system includes a lifting beam, and two lifting drive mechanisms are arranged on the frame, and the lifting drive mechanisms connect the two ends of the lifting beam; a horizontal slide rail extending in the left and right directions is arranged along the lifting beam, and a support seat is arranged on the horizontal slide rail, and a horizontal drive mechanism is arranged on the lifting beam to drive the support seat to move left and right along the horizontal slide rail; the support seat is provided with front and rear slide rails, and the wrench installation platform is arranged on the front and rear slide rails, and the front and rear drive mechanisms are arranged on the support seat to drive the wrench installation platform to move along the front and rear slide rails;

[0031] The electric wrench comprises a servo motor fixed on a wrench mounting platform, and an output shaft of the servo motor is connected to a screw sleeve.

[0032] In some embodiments, the middle of the hanger locking system has an avoidance door hole, and the outline of the target transfer system is smaller than the avoidance door hole; the top of the avoidance door hole is a lifting beam, and when the target transfer system passes through the avoidance door hole, the lifting beam moves upward to a height higher than the target transfer system;

[0033] Multiple support seats are arranged at intervals along the horizontal slide rail, the support seats correspond to the loading and unloading docks one by one, and the spacing between the support seats is the same as the spacing between the loading and unloading docks; electric wrenches are arranged on the support seats.

[0034] A second aspect of the present invention provides an automated production method for anodizing a metal part, comprising the following steps:

[0035] a. Hang the rear hook of the hanger on the material rack, and use the AGV to transfer the material rack to the loading and unloading dock of the upper target system, where the loading and unloading dock positions and fixes the material rack;

[0036] b. The target transfer system of the upper target system grabs the empty target from the target temporary storage rack; then moves along the track to the loading and unloading dock, moves the target and clamps it into the front hook of the hanger;

[0037] c. The servo system of the hanger locking system of the upper target system drives the electric wrench to move, aligns the actuator end of the electric wrench with the set screw and tightens it, and the set screw presses the electrical connection piece and the target tightly; the servo system takes the electric wrench away from the moving path of the target transfer system;

[0038] d. The target transfer system of the upper target system drives the target and the hanger to move upward, so that the rear hook of the hanger is separated from the material rack, so as to transfer the hanger to the target; the AGV takes the empty material rack away from the loading and unloading dock of the upper target system, and then repeats step a. The AGV transfers another batch of material racks with full hangers to the loading and unloading dock of the upper target system;

[0039] e. The target transfer system of the upper target system carries the full targets with the hangers to the target temporary storage rack and places the full targets on the target temporary storage rack;

[0040] The target transfer system of the upper target system repeats step b, and then takes an empty target from the target temporary storage rack;

[0041] f. The carrier of the overhead crane system grabs the full target from the target temporary storage rack of the upper target system; then carries the full target and the hanger on the target through each station of the anodizing production line in sequence; then places the full target on the target temporary storage rack of the lower target system;

[0042] At the same time, the carrier of the overhead crane system takes the empty target from the target temporary storage rack of the lower target system, returns to the target temporary storage rack of the upper target system, and places the empty target on the target temporary storage rack of the upper target system;

[0043] The overhead crane system repeats step f;

[0044] g. The target transfer system of the target lowering system grabs the full targets on the temporary storage rack and moves them along the track to the loading and unloading dock;

[0045] h. The servo system of the hanger locking system of the lower target system drives the electric wrench to move, align the actuator end of the electric wrench with the set screw and loosen it;

[0046] The servo system takes the electric wrench away from the moving path of the target transfer system;

[0047] i. The target transfer system of the lower target system moves the full target to the loading and unloading dock, and places the rear hook of the hanger just above the hanging point of the material rack; then the target transfer system carries the target down, and the rear hook of the hanger is hung on the material rack, transferring the hanger from the target to the material rack;

[0048] j. The AGV trolley takes away the material racks full of hangers on the loading and unloading dock of the lower flying target system; then another batch of AGV trolleys transfer the empty material racks to the loading and unloading dock of the lower flying target system;

[0049] k. The target transfer system of the lower target system carries the empty target to the target temporary storage rack and places the empty target on the target temporary storage rack;

[0050] The target transfer system of the lower target system repeats step g and then takes full targets from the target temporary storage rack.

[0051] Compared with the manual or semi-automatic loading and unloading production methods in the prior art, the technical solution of the present application has the following advantages:

[0052] Improved production efficiency: The fully automatic loading and unloading system can achieve 24-hour uninterrupted production, reduce the intermittent nature of manual operations, and significantly improve production efficiency. The automated system can quickly and accurately complete the loading and unloading of materials, reducing waiting and conversion time, thereby increasing the speed of the overall production line.

[0053] Reduced human errors: Traditional manual operations are prone to errors due to fatigue, negligence or lack of expertise. The automated system can ensure accurate loading and unloading of materials, reduce human operational errors, and improve product consistency and quality.

[0054] Improved product quality and consistency: The precise control of the automated loading and unloading system helps ensure that the processing flow of each workpiece is consistent, thereby improving the surface quality and appearance consistency of the product and avoiding deviations that may be caused by manual operation.

[0055] Reduced labor costs: The automation system replaces a large number of manual operations, reduces dependence on labor, and thus reduces labor costs. Especially in areas with tight labor or high costs, fully automated production lines have greater economic advantages.

[0056] Improved safety: Automated equipment can reduce operators’ exposure to dangerous environments such as high temperature and acid, reduce the risk of work-related injuries and accidents, and improve the safety of the production environment.

[0057] Reduced material waste: Automated systems are usually equipped with precise sensors and control systems that can accurately control the input and removal of materials, reducing material waste caused by improper manual operation.

[0058] Strong flexibility and adaptability: Modern fully automated loading and unloading systems are usually highly flexible and can be quickly adjusted according to production needs to adapt to workpieces of different specifications or types and meet the needs of customized production.

[0059] Reduced dependence on highly skilled workers: Automated production lines can reduce dependence on skilled workers, reduce production fluctuations caused by operator turnover, and improve the stability and sustainability of production lines.

[0060] Real-time data monitoring and tracking: Automation systems are usually equipped with intelligent monitoring and data collection functions, which can monitor production status in real time, analyze equipment operating efficiency, perform preventive maintenance, and reduce downtime.

[0061] In summary, the automated loading and unloading system can not only improve production efficiency, but also improve product quality, reduce costs, and improve safety. It is an important step in the modernization and intelligence of anodizing production lines. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] Figure 1 It is a top view of a practical flying target part of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 2 It is a stereoscopic diagram of the upper and lower target flying system of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the upper and lower target system from another direction;

[0065] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the upper and lower target system from another direction;

[0066] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the target transfer system in the upper and lower target system;

[0067] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the lifting module in the target transfer system, and a schematic diagram of the connection between the target and the hanger;

[0068] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional diagram of an electric wrench;

[0069] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the hanger part.

[0070] Description of Reference Numerals

[0071] 1-hanger, 1a-set screw, 1b-rear hook, 1c-front hook, 1d-electrical connection plate;

[0072] 2-Material rack;

[0073] 3-AGV car;

[0074] 4-upper and lower target system;

[0075] 4a-track;

[0076] 4b-Temporary storage rack for target shooting;

[0077] 4c-hanger locking system, 4c1-frame, 4c2-servo system, 4c2a-support seat, 4c3-electric wrench, 4c3a-wrench mounting platform, 4c3b-servo motor, 4c3c-screw sleeve;

[0078] 4d-target transfer system, 4d1-frame, 4d2-travel mechanism, 4d3-lifting module, 4d4-V-shaped lifting trough;

[0079] 4e-loading and unloading dock;

[0080] 5- Anodizing production line;

[0081] 6-dartboard, 6a-copper busbar. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] The specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to illustrate and explain the present invention, and are not used to limit the present invention.

[0083] In the present invention, unless otherwise stated, directional words such as "front" and "back" are used according to the direction of production. The forward direction of material production is "front" and the incoming direction of production is "back".

[0084] Special note: The upper and lower target systems 4 in the present invention include two identical sets, namely, an upper target system arranged at the feeding position of the anodizing production line 5 and a lower target system arranged at the discharging position of the anodizing production line 5. The upper target system and the lower target system are identical in structure, only the installation positions are different, and the action steps when they work are also different. When describing and explaining the structure of the upper and lower target systems 4 in this article, it is aimed at the upper target system, so the "front and back" positional relationship words used are used to explain the front and back positional relationship of the above target systems.

[0085] "Left and right" refer to the left and right sides of the material forward direction in the production process.

[0086] "Up and down" usually refer to the orientation when assembled and used.

[0087] “Inside and outside” refer to the inside and outside relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0088] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of the present invention and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the numbers used in this way can be interchanged where appropriate, so as to describe the embodiments of the present invention described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0089] Overall introduction:

[0090] See the instruction manual Figure 1-8 As shown, in the present invention, there is provided an automated production system for anodizing process of metal parts, including a material rack 2 for mounting a hanger 1, an AGV trolley 3 for transferring the material rack 2, an upper and lower target system 4, and an overhead crane system.

[0091] Arranged in production order, it includes the feeding AGV trolley 3, which carries a material rack 2, and the material rack 2 is loaded with a hanger 1; an upper target system for loading materials; an overhead crane system; a small target 6 system; and an AGV trolley 3 for unloading materials.

[0092] Hanger 1:

[0093] like Figure 8 As shown, the top of the hanger 1 is provided with two front and rear hooks. The rear hook 1b is hung on the hanging point of the material rack 2, and the front hook 1c is used to connect the flying target 6. The inner side of the front hook 1c is provided with a power connection plate 1d. The front hook 1c is provided with a set screw 1a. The set screw 1a supports the power connection plate 1d, and presses the power connection plate 1d on the flying target 6.

[0094] A mechanical fixing structure is provided on the frame 4d1 of the hanger 1. The design of the hanger 1 should take into account the shape, weight and position of the workpiece to ensure that the workpiece will not move or collide during the anodizing process, which would affect the treatment effect. Common designs include threaded fixing, snap-fit ​​or clamping devices.

[0095] AGV car 3:

[0096] like Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the AGV trolley 3 transports the material rack 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, which is called the feeding AGV trolley 3, and takes the material rack 2 away from the loading and unloading dock 4e of the lower target system, which is called the discharging AGV trolley 3. Here, the feeding AGV trolley 3 and the discharging AGV can be specific, that is, there are several AGV trolleys 3 that are specifically responsible for transporting the material rack 2 with the hanger 1 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and then transporting the empty material rack 2 back, and the discharging AGV trolley 3 is the same. It can also be a general term, that is, when the AGV trolley 3 performs the task of feeding and discharging materials to the loading and unloading dock of the upper target system, it is the feeding AGV trolley 3, and when the AGV trolley 3 is feeding and discharging materials to the metal material dock of the lower target system, it is the discharging AGV trolley 3. The AGV trolley 3 can be controlled by its own set program to perform specific tasks, or it can be assigned tasks by a central control program. Therefore, the same AGV trolley 3 can be a feeding AGV trolley 3 or a discharging AGV trolley 3.

[0097] Up and down target system 4:

[0098] like Figure 2-5 As shown, the upper and lower target system 4 is an important conversion link of the entire production line. The process of moving the target 6 up and down the rack and then transferring the target 6 to the overhead crane is also the step with the lowest degree of automation in the traditional anodizing production line 5.

[0099] The upper and lower target systems 4 are divided into an upper target system arranged at the feeding position of the anodizing production line 5 and a lower target system arranged at the discharging position of the anodizing production line 5. The upper target system and the lower target system are identical in structure, but are arranged at different positions of the anodizing production line 5 to perform different operations.

[0100] The upper and lower target system 4 includes a track 4a arranged in the front-to-back direction, a target temporary storage rack 4b, a hanger locking system 4c and a loading and unloading dock 4e arranged in sequence from front to back along the track 4a, and a target transfer system 4d that can move along the track 4a. The target transfer system 4d can move to the target temporary storage rack 4b to grab the target 6, then move to the loading and unloading dock 4e along the track 4a, exchange the hanger 1 with the material rack 2 on the loading and unloading dock 4e, and then transfer and release it to the target temporary storage rack 4b. The hanger locking system 4c includes a servo system 4c2 and an electric wrench 4c3. The servo system 4c2 drives the electric wrench 4c3 to align and tighten / loosen the set screw 1a of the hanger 1.

[0101] Overhead Crane System:

[0102] The overhead crane system is responsible for carrying the target 6, the hanger 1 on the target 6, and the workpiece to each production station of the anodizing production line 5. The overhead crane system includes an overhead track and a carrier moving along the overhead track. The carrier can grab / release the target 6. The overhead crane system does not directly contact the hanger 1 and the workpiece, but only interacts with the target 6.

[0103] In order to facilitate the understanding of the present invention, the specific working process of the automated production system for anodizing process of metal parts of the present invention is introduced as follows:

[0104] a. Hang the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 on the material rack 2, and the AGV trolley 3 transfers the material rack 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and the loading and unloading dock 4e locates and fixes the material rack 2. The loading AGV trolley 3 continuously repeats the process of transporting the material rack 2 with full hangers 1 of the previous process to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and then transporting the empty material rack 2 back to the previous process.

[0105] b. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system grabs the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b, and then moves it along the track 4a to the loading and unloading dock 4e, and moves the target 6 to the front hook 1c of the hanger 1.

[0106] c. The servo system 4c2 of the upper target system's hanger locking system 4c drives the electric wrench 4c3 to move, aligns the actuator end of the electric wrench 4c3 with the set screw 1a and tightens it, and the set screw 1a presses the power strip 1d and the target 6. Then, the servo system 4c2 takes the electric wrench 4c3 away from the moving path of the target transfer system 4d. After completing step b, the locking system of the upper target system moves the electric wrench 4c3 to the set screw 1a, and after tightening the set screw 1a, the electric wrench 4c3 is transferred to a position where it will not block the target transfer system 4d from moving along the track 4a.

[0107] d. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system drives the target 6 and the hanger 1 to move upward, so that the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 is separated from the material rack 2 and the hanger 1 is transferred to the target 6. Then, the AGV trolley 3 takes the empty material rack 2 away from the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and repeats step a. The AGV trolley 3 transfers another batch of material racks 2 with full hangers 1 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system.

[0108] e. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system carries the full target 6 with the hanger 1 to the target temporary storage rack 4b, and places the full target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b. Then, the target transfer system 4d of the upper target system repeats step b, and takes out the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0109] f. The carrier of the overhead crane system grabs the full target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system, and then carries the full target 6 and the hanger 1 on the target 6 through each station of the anodizing production line 5 in sequence, and then places the full target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system. At the same time, the carrier of the overhead crane system takes the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system, and then returns to the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system and places the empty target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system. Then the overhead crane system repeats step f.

[0110] g. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system grabs the full targets 6 on the temporary storage rack and moves them along the track 4a to the loading and unloading dock 4e.

[0111] h. The servo system 4c2 of the hanger locking system 4c of the lower target system drives the electric wrench 4c3 to move, aligns the execution end of the electric wrench 4c3 with the set screw 1a and loosens it. Then, the servo system 4c2 takes the electric wrench 4c3 away from the moving path of the target transfer system 4d.

[0112] i. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system moves the full target 6 to the loading and unloading dock 4e, and places the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 just above the hanging point of the material rack 2. Then, the target 6 transfer system carries the target 6 downward, and the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 is hung on the material rack 2, and the hanger 1 is transferred from the target 6 to the material rack 2.

[0113] j. The AGV trolleys 3 take away the material racks 2 full of hangers 1 on the loading and unloading dock 4e of the lower flying target system, and then another batch of AGV trolleys 3 transfer the empty material racks 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the lower flying target system.

[0114] k. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system carries the empty target 6 to the target temporary storage rack 4b and places the empty target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b. Then, the target transfer system 4d of the lower target system repeats step g and takes a full target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0115] The following is a detailed introduction to the various subsystems of the entire production system.

[0116] Overhead Crane System:

[0117] The overhead crane system includes an aerial track and a carrier. The aerial track is a closed ring, and the aerial track passes through the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system, the anodizing production line 5, the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system, and then returns to the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system. The specific setting of the aerial track should be determined according to the actual situation of the production site.

[0118] The carrier grabs a full target 6 carrying a hanger 1 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system, releases it to the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system via the anodizing production line 5, and grabs an empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system, and releases it to the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system.

[0119] The carrier is provided with an elevator. The execution end of the elevator is provided with a grabbing structure cooperating with the target 6, and the elevator can carry the target 6 to move up and down. The liftable part of the elevator is provided with a grabbing mechanism, and the grabbing mechanism can grab and release the target 6. The grabbing mechanism can be designed in many forms, for example, it can be a movable clamp-type mechanism, and the clamping part of the jaws close to the target 6 controls the jaws of the clamp-type mechanism to clamp. Electromagnets can also be used to fix ferromagnetic materials that can be attracted by the electromagnets on the target 6, such as ordinary steel plates or stainless steel materials. When the lifting part of the elevator is close to the target 6, the electromagnet can be started to attract and fix the target 6.

[0120] Material rack 2 and hanger 1:

[0121] The material rack 2 includes a frame body 4d1. The top of the frame body 4d1 is provided with a crossbeam. Hanging points are arranged at intervals along the crossbeam. The hanging point cooperates with the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1, and the hanging point cooperates with the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1. When the material rack 2 is parked at the loading and unloading dock 4e, the crossbeam is arranged along the left and right directions. The top of the hanger 1 is provided with two front and rear hooks. Among them, the rear hook 1b is hung on the hanging point of the material rack 2, and the front hook 1c is used to connect the flying target 6. A power connection plate 1d is arranged on the inner side of the front hook 1c. A set screw 1a is arranged on the front hook 1c. The set screw 1a presses against the power connection plate 1d to press the power connection plate 1d onto the flying target 6.

[0122] A mechanical fixing structure is provided on the frame 4d1 of the hanger 1. The design of the hanger 1 should take into account the shape, weight and position of the workpiece to ensure that the workpiece will not move or collide during the anodizing process, which will affect the treatment effect. Common designs include threaded fixing, snap-on or clamping devices. The top of the hanger 1 has a hook that is bent downward into a hook shape. The hooks include two front and rear hooks, the rear hook 1b is used to connect the material rack 2, and the front hook 1c is used to connect the target 6.

[0123] During the anodizing production process, the workpiece needs to be energized. Since the overhead crane system does not directly contact the workpiece, the current needs to be carried by the overhead crane system and conducted to the workpiece via the flying target 6 and the hanger 1. Among them, the flying target 6 and the overhead crane part have a dedicated power supply system to maintain stable power supply, and the workpiece is clamped and fixed on the hanger 1, so stable power supply can also be maintained. Since the hanger 1 is only hooked on the flying target 6, it is easy to cause unstable power supply. Therefore, a conductive contact component, namely a power connection plate 1d, is provided on the front hook 1c of the present invention, as well as a set screw 1a that cooperates with the power connection plate 1d to lock the front hook 1c of the hanger 1 on the copper bus 6a. The set screw 1a pushes the power connection plate 1d inward, pressing the power connection plate 1d against the copper bus 6a, maintaining stable power supply of the copper bus 6a to the hanger 1, and no electric sparks will appear due to the shaking of the hanger 1. The cooperation of the set screw 1a and the power connection piece 1d on the other side can improve the stability of the hanger 1 on the target 6, reduce the shaking of the hanger 1, or reduce the workpiece from falling off the hanger 1. Preferably, a power connection piece 1d made of elastic material is provided on the inner side of the front hook 1c of the hanger 1, one end of the power connection piece 1d is fixed on the front hook 1c, the tail of the set screw 1a supports the middle of the power connection piece 1d, and tightening the set screw 1a pushes the power connection piece 1d to move in the direction of the copper bar 6a and makes the power connection piece 1d press against the copper bar 6a.

[0124] Skeet 6:

[0125] The target 6 includes an upper crossbeam, a copper bar 6a arranged below the upper crossbeam and fixedly arranged parallel to the crossbeam, and hanging points arranged at intervals along the copper bar 6a, which cooperate with the front hook 1c of the hanger 1. The copper bar 6a serves as a hanging point of the hanger 1 on the one hand, and is used to supply power to the hanger 1 on the other hand. In combination with the working environment of the target 6, the copper bar 6a is generally made of copper material. The upper crossbeam of the target 6 is the main force-bearing structure, and a plurality of connecting rods are arranged along the upper crossbeam. The bottom of the connecting rod is connected to the copper bar 6a to prevent the copper bar 6a from being deformed.

[0126] The two ends of the upper crossbeam are provided with a first connection structure. The carrier of the overhead crane system cooperates with the first connection structure to grab / release the flying target 6. The carrier's electrical contact contacts the copper bar 6a and makes the copper bar 6a electrified. The first connection mechanism is determined according to the grabbing method of the overhead crane carrier. For example, it has been mentioned in the previous article that if the overhead crane uses an electromagnet to grab the flying target 6, then the first connection structure cooperates with a plate of ferromagnetic material; if the overhead crane is a clamp-shaped structure, then the first connection structure on the flying target 6 cooperates with a through hole or groove for the clamp-shaped structure to grab.

[0127] The copper bar 6a has a second connection structure at both ends, and the target temporary storage rack 4b includes a plurality of storage stations in front and back, and the storage stations include two left and right brackets, and the top of the bracket cooperates with the second connection structure to position and fix the target 6. The second connection structure includes a wedge-shaped positioning block, which is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom.

[0128] Up and down target system 4:

[0129] The structures of the upper target system and the lower target system are the same. The structural features of the upper and lower target system 4 are introduced below by taking the upper target system as an example.

[0130] The upper and lower target system 4 includes the following subsystems: a track 4a, a target temporary storage rack 4b, a hanger locking system 4c, a loading and unloading dock 4e, and a target transfer system 4d.

[0131] Loading and unloading dock 4e:

[0132] The loading and unloading docks 4e are arranged in parallel on the left and right. The loading and unloading docks 4e include positioning devices and locking devices. The AGV trolley 3 carries the material rack 2 and moves to the loading and unloading dock 4e. The positioning device limits the material rack 2 at the designed position, and the locking device connects and fixes the material rack 2. The locking device can be an electromagnet that directly absorbs the material rack 2, or a pin driven by a cylinder, and a hole that matches the pin is set on the material rack 2. The locking device only needs to be able to stably fix the material rack 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e.

[0133] Track 4a:

[0134] The track 4a is arranged along the front-rear direction, and the track 4a includes two parallel left and right tracks. The target transfer system 4d moves on the track 4a to improve the accuracy.

[0135] Skeet storage rack 4b:

[0136] The target temporary storage rack 4b is a support for temporarily placing the target 6, and the top is open for the overhead crane system to grab and place the target 6. There is an aisle in the middle of the target temporary storage rack 4b for the target transfer system 4d to pass through, and the left and right tracks 4a are both located in the middle aisle.

[0137] Target transfer system 4d:

[0138] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the target transfer system 4d includes a frame 4d1. A running mechanism 4d2 that cooperates with the track 4a is arranged at the bottom of the frame 4d1. The track 4a includes two left and right tracks, so the running system also includes two left and right tracks. The corresponding running system has two left and right sets of running wheels, and the running wheels bear the weight of the entire target transfer system 4d. At the same time, a rack is arranged along the track 4a, and a gear structure meshing with the rack is arranged on the frame 4d1. The gear is connected to a driving motor to drive the target transfer system 4d to move forward and backward along the track 4a. Running wheels are arranged on the left and right sides of the frame 4d1 to cooperate with the track 4a, and the running wheels are connected to the driving motor.

[0139] Two left and right lifting modules 4d3 are arranged on the top of the frame 4d1. The lifting module 4d3 includes a lifting platform, and a V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 is arranged on the lifting platform. The lifting module 4d3 functions to move up and down with the V-shaped lifting groove 4d4. The V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 is used to lift the target 6. On the one hand, the lifting module 4d3 can move upward from the target temporary storage rack 4b to remove the target 6, and on the other hand, it can also leave the target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b when the target temporary storage rack 4b moves downward; on the other hand, at the loading and unloading dock 4e, the lifting module 4d3 can push the target 6 to move upward to transfer the hanger 1 from the material rack 2 to the target 6, and on the other hand, the lifting module 4d3 can drive the target 6 to move downward to transfer the hanger 1 from the target 6 to the material rack 2.

[0140] The lifting module 4d3 needs to be able to accurately control its lifting height, so the lifting module 4d3 can be in the form of an electric push rod, or a screw in combination with a servo motor 4c3b. Specifically, the lifting platform is connected to the frame 4d1 through a guide rod, which is vertically arranged and slidably connected to the frame 4d1. The frame 4d1 is also provided with a push assembly to push the lifting platform up and down, and the push assembly includes a screw, a screw nut and a servo motor 4c3b that cooperate with each other. The top of the screw pushes the lifting platform, and the screw nut is rotatably installed on the frame 4d1. The servo motor 4c3b drives the screw nut to rotate through a transmission mechanism.

[0141] In the upper target system, the walking mechanism 4d2 drives the target transfer system 4d to move to the right below the target temporary storage rack 4b. The V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block of the empty target 6, and the lifting modules 4d3 on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target 6 away from the target temporary storage rack 4b. The positioning method of the target transfer system 4d and the target 6 is not unique. For example, a positioning hole can be set on the target 6, and the lifting module 4d3 of the target transfer system 4d is provided with a positioning cone that cooperates with the positioning hole. When the positioning cone is inserted into the positioning hole of the target 6, the positioning of the target 6 is completed. Among them, the positioning cone is set at the top of the lifting module 4d3, and the tip of the positioning cone is set upward.

[0142] The forward and backward movement of the walking mechanism 4d2 and the upward and downward movement of the lifting module 4d3 can move the copper bar 6a of the flying target 6 to just below the front hook 1c of the hanger 1 on the material rack 2. The lifting module 4d3 pushes the flying target 6 upward, and the copper bar 6a of the flying target 6 is firstly inserted into the front hook 1c of the hanger 1, thereby driving the hanger 1 upward to leave the temporary storage rack.

[0143] The action mode of the lower target system is similar to that of the upper target system, with only different working steps. In the lower target system, the walking mechanism 4d2 drives the target 6 to move to the right below the target temporary storage rack 4b, the V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block full of targets 6, and the lifting modules 4d3 on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove 4d4 cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target 6 and the hanger 1 away from the target temporary storage rack 4b. The walking mechanism 4d2 moves forward and backward and cooperates with the lifting module 4d3 to move up and down to move the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 on the target 6 to the right above the hanging point of the material rack 2. The lifting module 4d3 moves downward, and the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 is stuck on the hanging point of the material rack 2. The lifting module 4d3 continues to move downward, leaving the material rack 2 on the material rack 2, and the target 6 is separated from the hanger 1.

[0144] Hanger locking system 4c: The function of the hanger locking system 4c is to tighten or loosen the set screw 1a on the hanger 1.

[0145] The hanger locking system 4c includes a frame 4c1, a servo system 4c2 is arranged on the frame 4c1, and an electric wrench 4c3 is installed on the execution end of the servo system 4c2, and the servo system 4c2 drives the electric wrench 4c3 to move in the up-down, left-right, front-back directions. The frame 4c1 is a metal frame 4d1. The frame 4c1 only needs to be able to stably install the servo system 4c2. At the same time, the frame 4d1 needs to avoid the moving path of the flying target transfer system 4d and the loading and unloading path of the AGV trolley 3. The servo system 4c2 has three degrees of freedom of translation in the up-down, left-right, front-back directions.

[0146] like Figure 3 As shown in , the servo system 4c2 includes a lifting beam, and two lifting drive mechanisms are arranged on the frame 4c1, and the lifting drive mechanisms connect the two ends of the lifting beam. A horizontal slide rail extending in the left and right directions is arranged along the lifting beam, and a support seat 4c2a is arranged on the horizontal slide rail. A horizontal drive mechanism is arranged on the lifting beam to drive the support seat 4c2a to move left and right along the horizontal slide rail. The support seat 4c2a has front and rear slide rails, and the wrench installation platform 4c3a is arranged on the front and rear slide rails. The support seat 4c2a is provided with front and rear drive mechanisms to drive the wrench installation platform 4c3a to move along the front and rear slide rails.

[0147] The specific lifting drive mechanism can be in the form of an electric push rod or a lead screw, but since the entire servo system 4c2 needs to be lifted quickly to avoid the target transfer system 4d, Figure 6 As shown, the lifting drive mechanism includes a rack vertically fixed on the frame 4d1, and a lifting motor is arranged on the lifting beam. The lifting motor is connected to a gear meshing with the rack, thereby driving the lifting beam to move up and down.

[0148] The horizontal drive mechanism needs to drive multiple support seats 4c2a to slide left and right at the same time. If a gear rack form of a lifting drive mechanism is adopted, each support seat 4c2a needs to be provided with a set of motors. Although it is also possible to realize the left and right servo functions, the structure is relatively complicated. Preferably, the horizontal drive mechanism transmission belt is a toothed belt. The horizontal drive structure includes a horizontal drive motor, a drive pulley and a guide wheel. Guide wheels are set at both ends of the lifting beam, and the drive belt passes around the guide wheel and is set parallel to the horizontal slide rail. The support seats 4c2a are arranged at intervals along the horizontal slide rail, and the support seats 4c2a are fixed to the transmission belt. The transmission belt is annular, and the other side of the transmission belt cooperates with the drive pulley.

[0149] The front and rear driving mechanisms adopt a driving cylinder, which is fixed on the mounting platform, and the driving cylinder drives the wrench mounting platform 4c3a to move.

[0150] like Figure 7 As shown, the electric wrench 4c3 includes a servo motor 4c3b fixed on a wrench mounting platform 4c3a. The output shaft of the servo motor 4c3b is connected to a screw sleeve 4c3c.

[0151] The middle part of the hanger locking system 4c has a avoidance door hole, and the outline of the target transfer system 4d is smaller than the avoidance door hole. The top of the avoidance door hole is a lifting beam, and when the target transfer system 4d passes through the avoidance door hole, the lifting beam moves upward to a height higher than the target transfer system 4d.

[0152] Multiple support seats 4c2a are arranged at intervals along the horizontal slide rail. The support seats 4c2a correspond to the loading and unloading docks 4e one by one, and the spacing between the support seats 4c2a is the same as the spacing between the loading and unloading docks 4e. Electric wrenches 4c3 are arranged on the support seats 4c2a.

[0153] At the same time, in order to facilitate program control, the target 6 is provided with an identification code, and a first code scanner for scanning the identification code on the target 6 is provided on the bracket. The target transfer system 4d has a second code scanner for scanning the identification code on the target 6. The loading and unloading dock 4e is provided with a third code scanner for scanning the identification code of the material rack 2.

[0154] At the same time, the present application also proposes an automated production method for anodizing a metal part, which is applied to the automated production system for anodizing a metal part provided in the present application, and includes the following steps:

[0155] a. Hang the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 on the material rack 2, and the AGV trolley 3 transfers the material rack 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and the loading and unloading dock 4e locates and fixes the material rack 2.

[0156] Among them, hanging the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 on the material rack 2 is a production preparation operation, which is carried out in the previous production process. In the specific operation method, the hanger 1 can be hung on the material rack 2 by traditional manual operation, or a robot can complete the work. The AGV trolley 3 drives into the bottom of the material rack 2 and locks the material rack 2; then the AGV trolley 3 is controlled by the program to carry the material rack 2 into the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and the loading and unloading dock 4e will lock the material rack 2, and at the same time, the AGV trolley 3 is unlocked from the material rack 2 and then drives away, or refer to step d, the AGV trolley 3 waits for the upper target system to remove the hanger 1 on the material rack 2 before carrying the material rack 2 away.

[0157] b. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system grabs the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b, and then moves along the track 4a to the loading and unloading dock 4e, moves the target 6 and clamps it into the front hook 1c of the hanger 1.

[0158] After the target transfer system 4d takes out the target 6, it moves to the upper unloading dock 4e (moves backward) and moves the copper bar 6a of the target 6 up and down to a position slightly lower than the front hook 1c. When the target transfer system 4d moves to the designed position, the copper bar 6a of the target 6 moves upward again and is inserted into the front hook 1c.

[0159] c. The servo system 4c2 of the hanger locking system 4c of the upper target system drives the electric wrench 4c3 to move, and the actuator end of the electric wrench 4c3 is aligned with the set screw 1a and tightened. The set screw 1a presses the electrical connection piece 1d and the target 6 tightly.

[0160] When the target transfer system 4d drives the target 6 to be inserted into the front hook 1c from the bottom of the front hook 1c, the servo system 4c2 of the locking system carries the electric wrench 4c3 to align with the set screw 1a of the first hanger 1 on the material rack 2, and then the electric wrench 4c3 cooperates with the set screw 1a to tighten the set screw 1a, and then tightens the multiple hangers 1 on the material rack 2 in turn.

[0161] After all the set screws 1a are tightened, the servo system 4c2 then takes the electric wrench 4c3 away from the moving path of the target transfer system 4d, thereby avoiding the target transfer system 4d and the hanger locking system 4c in step e.

[0162] d. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system drives the target 6 and the hanger 1 to move upward, so that the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 is separated from the material rack 2 and the hanger 1 is transferred to the target 6. Here, the hanger 1 is locked with the copper bar 6a of the target 6. When the target 6 moves upward, the hanger 1 will move with the target 6, and the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 will be separated from the hanger 1.

[0163] Then the AGV trolley 3 takes the empty material rack 2 away from the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and repeats step a. The AGV trolley 3 transfers another batch of material racks 2 full of hangers 1 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system. The AGV trolley 3 repeatedly transports the material racks 2 full of hangers 1 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the upper target system, and then takes the empty material racks 2 away.

[0164] e. The target transfer system 4d of the upper target system carries the full target 6 with the hanger 1 to the target temporary storage rack 4b and places the full target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b. Specifically, the target transfer system 4d moves toward the target temporary storage rack 4b (moves forward) while the lifting mechanism drives the target 6 to move upward, and after the target 6 moves to the top of the target temporary storage rack 4b, it moves downward and leaves the target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0165] Then the target transfer system 4d of the upper target system repeats step b, and then takes out the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0166] f. The carrier of the overhead crane system grabs the full target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system; then carries the full target 6 and the hanger 1 on the target 6 through each station of the anodizing production line 5 in sequence; then places the full target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system;

[0167] At the same time, the carrier of the overhead crane system takes the empty target 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b of the lower target system, returns to the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system, and places the empty target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b of the upper target system;

[0168] The overhead crane system then repeats step f.

[0169] The following describes the work steps after anodizing.

[0170] g. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system grabs the full targets 6 on the temporary storage rack and moves them along the track 4a to the loading and unloading dock 4e.

[0171] h. The servo system 4c2 of the hanger locking system 4c of the lower target system drives the electric wrench 4c3 to move, and the execution end of the electric wrench 4c3 is aligned with the set screw 1a and loosened;

[0172] The servo system 4c2 then takes the electric wrench 4c3 away from the moving path of the target transfer system 4d.

[0173] i. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system moves the full target 6 to the loading and unloading dock 4e, and places the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 just above the hanging point of the material rack 2; then the target 6 transfer system carries the target 6 downward, and the rear hook 1b of the hanger 1 is hung on the material rack 2, transferring the hanger 1 from the target 6 to the material rack 2.

[0174] j. The AGV trolleys 3 take away the material racks 2 full of hangers 1 on the loading and unloading dock 4e of the lower flying target system; and then another batch of AGV trolleys 3 transfer the empty material racks 2 to the loading and unloading dock 4e of the lower flying target system.

[0175] k. The target transfer system 4d of the lower target system carries the empty target 6 to the target temporary storage rack 4b and places the empty target 6 on the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0176] Then the target transfer system 4d of the lower target system repeats step g, and takes full targets 6 from the target temporary storage rack 4b.

[0177] Compared with the manual or semi-automatic loading and unloading production methods in the prior art, the automatic loading and unloading target system and method for anodizing metal workpieces of the present application has the following advantages:

[0178] Improved production efficiency: The fully automatic loading and unloading system can achieve 24-hour uninterrupted production, reduce the intermittent nature of manual operations, and significantly improve production efficiency. The automated system can quickly and accurately complete the loading and unloading of materials, reducing waiting and conversion time, thereby increasing the speed of the overall production line.

[0179] Reduced human errors: Traditional manual operations are prone to errors due to fatigue, negligence or lack of expertise. The automated system can ensure accurate loading and unloading of materials, reduce human operational errors, and improve product consistency and quality.

[0180] Improved product quality and consistency: The precise control of the automated loading and unloading system helps ensure that the processing flow of each workpiece is consistent, thereby improving the surface quality and appearance consistency of the product and avoiding deviations that may be caused by manual operation.

[0181] Reduced labor costs: The automation system replaces a large number of manual operations, reduces dependence on labor, and thus reduces labor costs. Especially in areas with tight labor or high costs, fully automated production lines have greater economic advantages.

[0182] Improved safety: Automated equipment can reduce operators’ exposure to dangerous environments such as high temperature and acid, reduce the risk of work-related injuries and accidents, and improve the safety of the production environment.

[0183] Reduced material waste: Automated systems are usually equipped with precise sensors and control systems that can accurately control the input and removal of materials, reducing material waste caused by improper manual operation.

[0184] Strong flexibility and adaptability: Modern fully automated loading and unloading systems are usually highly flexible and can be quickly adjusted according to production needs to adapt to workpieces of different specifications or types and meet the needs of customized production.

[0185] Reduced dependence on highly skilled workers: Automated production lines can reduce dependence on skilled workers, reduce production fluctuations caused by operator turnover, and improve the stability and sustainability of production lines.

[0186] Real-time data monitoring and tracking: Automation systems are usually equipped with intelligent monitoring and data collection functions, which can monitor production status in real time, analyze equipment operating efficiency, perform preventive maintenance, and reduce downtime.

[0187] In summary, the automated loading and unloading system can not only improve production efficiency, but also improve product quality, reduce costs, and improve safety. It is an important step in the modernization and intelligence of anodizing production lines.

[0188] The above descriptions are merely embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process transformation made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings, or directly or indirectly applied in other related technical fields, are also included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated production system for anodizing of metal parts, characterized in that: It includes a material rack (2) for mounting a hanger (1), an AGV trolley (3) for transferring the material rack (2), an upper and lower target system (4) and an overhead crane system; The top of the hanger (1) is provided with two front and rear hooks, wherein the rear hook (1b) is hung on a hanging point of a material rack (2), and the front hook (1c) is used to connect a flying target (6); a power connection sheet (1d) is arranged on the inner side of the front hook (1c), and a set screw (1a) is arranged on the front hook (1c), and the set screw (1a) is pressed against the power connection sheet (1d) to press the power connection sheet (1d) onto the flying target (6); The AGV trolley (3) transports the material rack (2) to the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the upper target system, and takes the material rack (2) away from the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the lower target system; The upper and lower target systems (4) are divided into an upper target system arranged at a feeding position of an anodizing production line (5) and a lower target system arranged at a discharging position of the anodizing production line (5); the upper and lower target systems (4) include a track (4a) arranged in a front-to-back direction, a target temporary storage rack (4b) arranged in sequence from front to back along the track (4a), a hanger locking system (4c) and a loading and unloading dock (4e), and a target transfer system (4d) capable of moving along the track (4a); the target transfer system (4 d) capable of moving to the target temporary storage rack (4b) to grab the target (6), then moving along the track (4a) to the loading and unloading dock (4e), exchanging the hanger (1) with the material rack (2) on the loading and unloading dock (4e), and then transferring and releasing it to the target temporary storage rack (4b); the hanger locking system (4c) includes a servo system (4c2) and an electric wrench (4c3), and the servo system (4c2) drives the electric wrench (4c3) to align and tighten / loosen the set screw (1a) of the hanger (1); The overhead crane system comprises an overhead track and a vehicle moving along the overhead track, wherein the vehicle is capable of grabbing / releasing the flying target (6).

2. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The high-altitude track is in a closed ring shape, and the high-altitude track passes through the temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system, the anodizing production line (5), the temporary storage rack (4b) of the lower target system, and then returns to the temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system; The carrier is provided with an elevator, the execution end of the elevator is provided with a grabbing structure cooperating with the flying target (6), and the elevator can carry the flying target (6) to move up and down; The carrier grabs a full target (6) carrying a hanger (1) from a target temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system, and releases it to the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the lower target system via an anodizing production line (5); and grabs an empty target (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the lower target system, and releases it to the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system.

3. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The loading and unloading docks (4e) are arranged in parallel on the left and right sides, and the loading and unloading docks (4e) include a positioning device and a locking device. The AGV trolley (3) carries the material rack (2) to the loading and unloading dock (4e), the positioning device limits the material rack (2) at the designed position, and the locking device connects and fixes the material rack (2).

4. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The material rack (2) comprises a frame body (4d1), the top of the frame body (4d1) is provided with a crossbeam, hanging points are arranged at intervals along the crossbeam, and the hanging points cooperate with the rear hooks (1b) of the hanger (1); when the material rack (2) is parked at the loading and unloading dock (4e), the crossbeam is arranged along the left and right directions.

5. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The target (6) comprises an upper crossbeam, a copper bar (6a) arranged below the upper crossbeam and fixedly arranged parallel to the crossbeam, and hanging points arranged at intervals along the copper bar (6a), the hanging points cooperating with the front hook (1c) of the hanger (1); The two ends of the upper crossbeam are provided with a first connection structure, the carrier of the overhead crane system cooperates with the first connection structure to grab / release the flying target (6), and the carrier's electrical contact contacts the copper bar (6a) and makes the copper bar (6a) electrified; An electric connection piece (1d) made of elastic material is arranged on the inner side of the front hook (1c) of the hanger (1), one end of the electric connection piece (1d) is fixed on the front hook (1c), the tail of the set screw (1a) supports the middle of the electric connection piece (1d), and the set screw (1a) is tightened to push the electric connection piece (1d) toward the copper busbar (6a) and make the electric connection piece (1d) press against the copper busbar (6a); The copper bar (6a) has a second connection structure at both ends, and the target temporary storage rack (4b) includes a plurality of front and rear storage stations, each storage station includes two left and right brackets, and the top of the bracket cooperates with the second connection structure to position and fix the target (6); The second connection structure includes a wedge-shaped positioning block, which is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom; the top of the bracket is provided with a slot that matches the wedge-shaped positioning block.

6. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 5, characterized in that: The target transfer system (4d) comprises a frame (4d1), a walking mechanism (4d2) matched with the track (4a) is arranged at the bottom of the frame (4d1), two left and right lifting modules (4d3) are arranged at the top of the frame (4d1), and a V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) is provided at the top of the lifting module (4d3) to match with the wedge-shaped positioning block on the target (6); In the target upper system, the walking mechanism (4d2) drives the target transfer system (4d) to move to the right below the target temporary storage rack (4b), the V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block of the empty target (6), the lifting modules (4d3) on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target (6) away from the target temporary storage rack (4b); the walking mechanism (4d2) moves forward and backward and cooperates with the lifting module (4d3) to move up and down to move the copper bar (6a) of the target (6) to the right below the front hook (1c) of the hanger (1) on the material rack (2), the lifting module (4d3) pushes the target (6) upward, the copper bar (6a) of the target (6) is firstly inserted into the front hook (1c) of the hanger (1), and then drives the hanger (1) upward to leave the temporary storage rack; In the lower target system, the walking mechanism (4d2) drives the target (6) to move to the right below the target temporary storage rack (4b), the V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) is aligned with the wedge-shaped positioning block full of targets (6), the lifting modules (4d3) on the left and right sides move upward, and the V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) cooperates with the wedge-shaped positioning block to lift the target (6) and the hanger (1) away from the target temporary storage rack (4b); the walking mechanism (4d2) moves forward and backward and cooperates with the lifting module (4d3) to move up and down to move the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) on the target (6) to the right above the hanging point of the material rack (2), the lifting module (4d3) moves downward, the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) is clamped on the hanging point of the material rack (2), the lifting module (4d3) continues to move downward, the material rack (2) is left on the material rack (2), and the target (6) is separated from the hanger (1).

7. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 6, characterized in that: The target (6) is provided with an identification code; the support is provided with a first code scanner for scanning the identification code on the target (6), and the target transfer system (4d) is provided with a second code scanner for scanning the identification code on the target (6); the material rack (2) is provided with an identification code, and the loading and unloading dock (4e) is provided with a third code scanner for scanning the identification code of the material rack (2); The track (4a) comprises two parallel left and right tracks, and the left and right sides of the frame (4d1) are respectively provided with running wheels that cooperate with the track (4a), and the running wheels are connected to the driving motor; The lifting module (4d3) includes a lifting platform, a V-shaped lifting groove (4d4) is arranged on the lifting platform, and the lifting platform is connected to the frame (4d1) through a guide rod, and the guide rod is vertically arranged and slidably connected to the frame (4d1); a pushing assembly is also arranged on the frame (4d1) for pushing the lifting platform up and down, and the pushing assembly includes a screw, a screw nut and a servo motor (4c3b) that cooperate with each other, the top of the screw pushes the lifting platform, the screw nut is rotatably installed on the frame (4d1), and the servo motor (4c3b) drives the screw nut to rotate through a transmission mechanism.

8. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 6, characterized in that: The hanger locking system (4c) comprises a frame (4c1), a servo system (4c2) is arranged on the frame (4c1), an electric wrench (4c3) is installed at the execution end of the servo system (4c2), and the servo system (4c2) drives the electric wrench (4c3) to move in the up-down, left-right, and front-back directions; The servo system (4c2) comprises a lifting beam, and two lifting drive mechanisms are arranged on the frame (4c1), and the lifting drive mechanisms are connected to the two ends of the lifting beam; a horizontal slide rail extending in the left and right directions is arranged along the lifting beam, and a support seat (4c2a) is arranged on the horizontal slide rail; a horizontal drive mechanism is arranged on the lifting beam to drive the support seat (4c2a) to move left and right along the horizontal slide rail; the support seat (4c2a) is provided with front and rear slide rails, and the wrench installation platform (4c3a) is arranged on the front and rear slide rails, and the support seat (4c2a) is provided with front and rear drive mechanisms to drive the wrench installation platform (4c3a) to move along the front and rear slide rails; The electric wrench (4c3) comprises a servo motor (4c3b) fixed on a wrench mounting platform (4c3a), and an output shaft of the servo motor (4c3b) is connected to a screw sleeve (4c3c).

9. The automated production system for anodizing of metal parts according to claim 8, characterized in that: The middle of the hanger locking system (4c) is provided with an avoidance door hole, and the outline of the target transfer system (4d) is smaller than the avoidance door hole; the top of the avoidance door hole is a lifting beam, and when the target transfer system (4d) passes through the avoidance door hole, the lifting beam moves upward to a height higher than the target transfer system (4d); A plurality of support seats (4c2a) are arranged at intervals along the horizontal slide rail, the support seats (4c2a) correspond to the loading and unloading docks (4e) one by one, and the spacing between the support seats (4c2a) is the same as the spacing between the loading and unloading docks (4e); and electric wrenches (4c3) are arranged on the support seats (4c2a).

10. An automated production method for anodizing of metal parts, characterized in that: The method is applied to the automated production system for anodizing process of metal parts provided in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: a. Hang the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) on the material rack (2), and use the AGV trolley (3) to transfer the material rack (2) to the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the upper target system, and the loading and unloading dock (4e) positions and fixes the material rack (2); b. The target transfer system (4d) of the upper target system grabs an empty target (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b); then moves along the track (4a) to the loading and unloading dock (4e), moves the target (6) and clamps the target (6) into the front hook (1c) of the hanger (1); c. The servo system (4c2) of the hanger locking system (4c) of the upper target system drives the electric wrench (4c3) to move, aligns the execution end of the electric wrench (4c3) with the set screw (1a) and tightens it, and the set screw (1a) presses the electrical connection piece (1d) and the target (6) tightly; the servo system (4c2) takes the electric wrench (4c3) away from the moving path of the target transfer system (4d); d. The target transfer system (4d) of the upper target system drives the target (6) and the hanger (1) to move upward, so that the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) is separated from the material rack (2), so as to transfer the hanger (1) to the target (6); the AGV trolley (3) takes the empty material rack (2) away from the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the upper target system, and then repeats step a, and the AGV trolley (3) transfers another batch of material racks (2) full of hangers (1) to the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the upper target system; e. The target transfer system (4d) of the upper target system carries the full target (6) hung with the hanger (1) to the target temporary storage rack (4b), and places the full target (6) on the target temporary storage rack (4b); The target transfer system (4d) of the upper target system repeats step b, and then takes an empty target (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b); f. The carrier of the overhead crane system grabs the full target (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system; then carries the full target (6) and the hanger (1) on the target (6) through each station of the anodizing production line (5) in sequence; then places the full target (6) on the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the lower target system; At the same time, the carrier of the overhead crane system takes an empty target (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the lower target system, returns to the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system, and places the empty target (6) on the target temporary storage rack (4b) of the upper target system; The overhead crane system repeats step f; g. The target transfer system (4d) of the lower target system grabs the full targets (6) on the temporary storage rack and moves them along the track (4a) to the loading and unloading dock (4e); h. The servo system (4c2) of the hanger locking system (4c) of the lower target system drives the electric wrench (4c3) to move, and the execution end of the electric wrench (4c3) is aligned with the set screw (1a) and loosened; The servo system (4c2) takes the electric wrench (4c3) away from the moving path of the target transfer system (4d); i. The target transfer system (4d) of the lower target system moves the full target (6) to the loading and unloading dock (4e), and places the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) just above the hanging point of the material rack (2); then the target (6) transfer system carries the target (6) downward, and the rear hook (1b) of the hanger (1) is hung on the material rack (2), and the hanger (1) is transferred from the target (6) to the material rack (2); j. The AGV trolley (3) takes away the material rack (2) full of hangers (1) from the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the lower target system; and then another batch of AGV trolleys (3) transfer the empty material rack (2) to the loading and unloading dock (4e) of the lower target system; k. The target transfer system (4d) of the lower target system carries the empty target (6) to the target temporary storage rack (4b), and places the empty target (6) on the target temporary storage rack (4b); The target transfer system (4d) of the lower target system repeats step g and then takes full targets (6) from the target temporary storage rack (4b).

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