Assembly production line and assembly method

Abstract

This invention discloses an assembly production line and assembly method, belonging to the field of vehicle manufacturing technology. The assembly production line includes a body line and a chassis assembly line. The body line includes a first conveyor line and a clamping mechanism, which moves along the first conveyor line and is used to clamp the vehicle body. The chassis assembly line includes a second conveyor line and a lifting mechanism, which moves along the second conveyor line. The body line is located above the chassis assembly line, and the lifting mechanism carries a first chassis assembly corresponding to a vehicle model or a second chassis assembly corresponding to a non-vehicle model on the side facing the body line. When the clamping mechanism and the lifting mechanism move to the assembly position, the lifting mechanism is in a lifted state, and the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly is assembled with the corresponding vehicle body. Using the technical solution of this application not only reduces the space occupied by assembly lines for different vehicle models but also facilitates flexible production.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle manufacturing technology, and in particular to an assembly production line and assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] Unibody and body-on-frame vehicles differ significantly in their chassis structure. Unibody vehicles lack an independent rigid frame; the vehicle's main load-bearing capacity relies primarily on the body itself, with chassis assemblies such as the engine, front suspension, and rear suspension directly mounted to the body. Body-on-frame vehicles, on the other hand, have an independent rigid frame. The vehicle's main load-bearing capacity depends entirely on the frame, with chassis assemblies such as the engine, front suspension, and rear suspension mounted on it. The frame is connected to the body via elastic elements. Due to these structural differences, the assembly processes for the body and chassis assemblies differ considerably between the two types of vehicles.

[0003] In related technologies, separate assembly lines are typically set up for unibody and non-unibody vehicles, and each component of the chassis assembly is equipped with a separate sub-assembly line for assembling the body. However, two separate assembly lines occupy too much space in the production workshop and are not conducive to flexible production. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present application provides an assembly production line and assembly method, which can not only reduce the space occupied by the assembly lines of different vehicle models, but also facilitate flexible production.

[0005] On the one hand, embodiments of this application provide an assembly production line, which includes a body line and a chassis assembly line;

[0006] The vehicle body line includes a first conveyor line and a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism moves along the first conveyor line and is used to clamp the vehicle body.

[0007] The chassis assembly line includes a second conveyor line and a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism moves along the second conveyor line. The body line is located above the chassis assembly line. The side of the lifting mechanism facing the body line carries a first chassis assembly corresponding to a load-bearing vehicle or a second chassis assembly corresponding to a non-load-bearing vehicle.

[0008] When the clamping mechanism and the lifting mechanism move to the assembly position, the lifting mechanism is in a lifted state, and the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly is assembled with the corresponding vehicle body.

[0009] Optionally, the lifting mechanism includes a first transport vehicle, a first lifting assembly, and a second lifting assembly;

[0010] The first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly are respectively vertically mounted on the first transport vehicle, and the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly are arranged side by side in the length direction of the vehicle body.

[0011] Optionally, the assembly production line further includes an adjustment line, which includes a lifting mechanism, a third conveyor line, and an adjustment device;

[0012] The lifting mechanism is connected to the third conveyor line. When the lifting mechanism is in the descending position, the third conveyor line is connected to the first conveyor line; when the lifting mechanism is in the ascending position, the third conveyor line is located above the first conveyor line.

[0013] The adjustment device is used to adjust the current clamping position of the clamping mechanism that has moved to the third conveyor line to the target clamping position.

[0014] Optionally, the lifting mechanism includes a first lift, an adjusting platform, and a second lift, wherein the first lift and the second lift are located on opposite sides of the adjusting platform;

[0015] The third conveyor line includes a first sub-conveyor line, a second sub-conveyor line, and a third sub-conveyor line. The first sub-conveyor line is located between the first conveyor line and the second sub-conveyor line, and the second sub-conveyor line is located between the first sub-conveyor line and the third sub-conveyor line. The first sub-conveyor line is connected to the first elevator.

[0016] The adjustment device is installed on the adjustment platform, which is located below the second sub-conveyor line;

[0017] When the first elevator is in the descending position, the first sub-conveyor line is connected to the first conveyor line; when the first elevator is in the ascending position, the first sub-conveyor line is connected to the second sub-conveyor line; when the second elevator is in the ascending position, the second sub-conveyor line is connected to the third sub-conveyor line; when the second elevator is in the descending position, the third sub-conveyor line is located below the second sub-conveyor line, so that the clamping mechanism clamps the vehicle body.

[0018] Optionally, the assembly line further includes a transfer device, which includes a pallet mechanism and a transfer mechanism;

[0019] The pallet mechanism includes a second transport vehicle and a pallet assembly, the pallet assembly being mounted on the second transport vehicle, and the pallet assembly being pre-assembled with a support for the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly;

[0020] The transfer mechanism includes a transfer bracket and a transfer boom. The transfer boom is movably mounted on the transfer bracket and moves between the second transport vehicle and the first transport vehicle. The transfer boom can clamp or release the pallet assembly.

[0021] Optionally, the pallet assembly includes a first pallet and a second pallet, the first pallet and the second pallet being arranged side by side in the length direction of the vehicle body;

[0022] The gantry crane includes a first boom and a second boom, which are arranged side by side along the length of the vehicle body. The first boom is opposite to the first pallet, and the second boom is opposite to the second pallet.

[0023] Optionally, the assembly line includes a controller, which is electrically connected to the clamping mechanism and the lifting mechanism, respectively.

[0024] On the other hand, this application also provides an assembly method for controlling the assembly production line described in any one of the embodiments of this application above. The assembly method includes:

[0025] Determine the current positions of the clamping and lifting mechanisms;

[0026] In response to both the clamping mechanism and the lifting mechanism moving to the assembly position, a first lifting command is generated, wherein the first lifting command is used to instruct the lifting mechanism to switch from the lowering state to the lifting state.

[0027] Optionally, the assembly method further includes:

[0028] In response to the clamping mechanism moving to the adjustment position, a first adjustment command is generated, wherein the first adjustment command is used to instruct the current clamping position of the clamping mechanism to be adjusted to the target clamping position.

[0029] Optionally, the step of generating a first adjustment command in response to the clamping mechanism moving to the adjustment position includes:

[0030] In response to the clamping mechanism moving to the adjusted position, the target identifier corresponding to the vehicle body currently clamped by the clamping mechanism is obtained;

[0031] Based on the target identifier, determine the target clamping position corresponding to the target identifier;

[0032] Based on the target clamping position, a first adjustment command is generated.

[0033] The assembly line provided in this application includes a body line and a chassis assembly line. The body line includes a first conveyor line and a clamping mechanism that can move along the first conveyor line. The chassis assembly line includes a second conveyor line and a lifting mechanism that can move along the second conveyor line. Since the lifting mechanism can be used to support the first chassis assembly corresponding to a body-on-frame vehicle or the second chassis assembly corresponding to a non-body-on-frame vehicle, when the clamping mechanism and the lifting mechanism move to the assembly position, the lifting mechanism can be directly raised, so that the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly can be assembled with the corresponding body in one go. Using the assembly line provided in this application, chassis assemblies of different models can be pre-assembled on the same lifting mechanism, so that different models can complete the assembly of the body and chassis assembly on the same assembly line without having to set up separate assembly lines for the chassis assemblies of different models. Therefore, body-on-frame and non-body-on-frame vehicles can share the same assembly line, which not only reduces the space occupied by the assembly lines of different models, but also facilitates flexible production. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an assembly production line provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the vehicle body and chassis assembly before they reach the assembly position in an assembly line, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the car body and chassis assembly reaching the assembly position in an assembly line according to an embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the car body and chassis assembly reaching the position of the first elevator in an assembly production line, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of adjusting the clamping position of a clamping mechanism in an assembly production line, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of a clamping mechanism re-clamping a car body in an assembly production line, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adjustment line area in an assembly production line according to an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a transfer device in an assembly production line provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a pallet mechanism in an assembly production line provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a lifting mechanism in an assembly production line provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamping mechanism in an assembly line when it releases the car body at the first elevator, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 12 This is a structural block diagram of an assembly production line provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of an assembly method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of another assembly method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0049] Figure label:

[0050] 1. Vehicle body line; 11. First conveyor line; 12. Clamping mechanism; 121. Gripper;

[0051] 2. Chassis assembly line; 21. Second conveyor line; 22. Lifting mechanism; 221. First transport vehicle; 222. First lifting assembly; 223. Second lifting assembly; 225. First lifting platform; 226. First drive unit; 227. Second lifting platform; 228. Second drive unit; 229. Third lifting assembly;

[0052] 3. Adjustment line; 31. Lifting mechanism; 32. Third conveyor line; 33. Adjustment device; 311. First elevator; 312. Adjustment platform; 313. Second elevator; 321. First sub-conveyor line; 322. Second sub-conveyor line; 323. Third sub-conveyor line;

[0053] 4. Transfer device; 41. Pallet mechanism; 42. Transfer mechanism; 411. Second transport vehicle; 412. Pallet assembly; 413. First pallet; 414. Second pallet; 43. Transfer bracket; 44. Transfer boom; 441. First boom; 442. Second boom;

[0054] 5. Controller;

[0055] 6. First interior trim line;

[0056] 7. Battery assembly line;

[0057] 8. Second interior trim line;

[0058] 9. Tire lines;

[0059] 10. Adjustment line;

[0060] 101. Testing line;

[0061] 102. Vehicle body;

[0062] 103. Chassis assembly.

[0063] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0064] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used in the embodiments of this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art.

[0066] To make the technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, in one aspect, this application provides an assembly line, which includes a body line 1 and a chassis assembly line 2.

[0068] The vehicle body line 1 includes a first conveyor line 11 and a clamping mechanism 12. The clamping mechanism 12 moves along the first conveyor line 11 and is used to clamp the vehicle body 102. It should be noted that the first conveyor line 11 is provided with a slide rail extending along the conveying direction, and the clamping mechanism 12 moves along the slide rail of the first conveyor line 11.

[0069] The chassis assembly line 2 includes a second conveyor line 21 and a lifting mechanism 22. The lifting mechanism 22 moves along the second conveyor line 21. The body line 1 is located above the chassis assembly line 2. The lifting mechanism 22 carries a first chassis assembly corresponding to a load-bearing vehicle or a second chassis assembly corresponding to a non-load-bearing vehicle on the side facing the body line 1.

[0070] When the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22 move to the assembly position, the lifting mechanism 22 is in a lifted state, and the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly is assembled with the corresponding vehicle body 102. It should be noted that in the accompanying drawings of this application, the chassis assembly 103 refers to the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly. With this configuration, the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly can be assembled with the corresponding vehicle body 102 in one go. It should also be noted that the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly and the corresponding vehicle body 102 can be assembled using mechanical equipment or manually. In this embodiment, assembly refers to fixing the vehicle body 102 to the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly together.

[0071] Using the assembly line provided in this application embodiment, chassis assemblies of different models can be pre-assembled on the same lifting mechanism 22. Thus, different models can complete the assembly of the body 102 and chassis assembly on the same assembly line without having to set up separate assembly lines for the chassis assemblies of different models and the body 102. Therefore, the same assembly line can be shared by the load-bearing and non-load-bearing models. This not only reduces the space occupied by the assembly lines of different models, but also helps to achieve flexible production.

[0072] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 14 The details and functions of the assembly production line provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in more specific and detailed manner.

[0073] like Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the lifting mechanism 22 includes a first transport vehicle 221, a first lifting assembly 222, and a second lifting assembly 223. The first lifting assembly 222 and the second lifting assembly 223 are respectively vertically and flexibly mounted on the first transport vehicle 221, and are arranged side-by-side along the length of the vehicle body 102. It should be noted that the first lifting assembly 222 is positioned near the front of the vehicle body 102, and the second lifting assembly 223 is positioned near the rear of the vehicle body 102, thereby ensuring that the first chassis assembly and the second chassis assembly can be lifted smoothly.

[0074] Combination Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the first chassis assembly includes a first front suspension assembly, a first rear suspension assembly, and a first powertrain. The first front suspension assembly and the first powertrain are located on the first lifting assembly 222, and the first rear suspension assembly is located on the second lifting mechanism 22.

[0075] The second chassis assembly includes a second front suspension assembly, a second rear suspension assembly, a second powertrain, and a frame assembly. The two ends of the frame assembly are respectively located on the first lifting assembly 222 and the second lifting assembly 223, and the second front suspension assembly, the second rear suspension assembly, and the second powertrain are respectively mounted on the frame assembly.

[0076] As a result, the force on the first lifting assembly 222 and the second lifting assembly 223 is relatively even, which can smoothly lift the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly.

[0077] Combination Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the lifting mechanism 22 further includes a third lifting assembly 229, with the first lifting assembly 222 located between the third lifting assembly 229 and the second lifting assembly 223. The third lifting assembly 229 is vertically and flexibly mounted on the first transport vehicle 221. It should be noted that the third lifting assembly 229 is used to lift and carry personnel. When the chassis assembly 103 is assembled, personnel can stand on the third lifting assembly 229 to secure or inspect positions on the vehicle body 102 or chassis assembly 103 that require fixing.

[0078] Combination Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the first lifting assembly 222 includes a first lifting platform 225 and a first drive member 226. The fixed end of the first drive member 226 is connected to the first transport vehicle 221, and the drive end of the first drive member 226 is connected to the first lifting platform 225 to drive the first lifting platform 225 to rise or fall. The first lifting platform 225 is used to support the first front suspension assembly and the first powertrain, or to support the portion of the frame assembly opposite to the front of the vehicle body 102. The second lifting assembly 223 includes a second lifting platform 227 and a second drive member 228. The fixed end of the second drive member 228 is connected to the first transport vehicle 221, and the drive end of the second drive member 228 is connected to the second lifting platform 227 to drive the second lifting platform 227 to rise or fall. The second lifting platform 227 is used to support the first rear suspension assembly, or to clamp the portion of the frame assembly opposite to the rear of the vehicle body 102. This configuration allows for flexible and smooth lifting of both the first and second chassis assemblies.

[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line also includes an adjustment line 3, which includes a lifting mechanism 31, a third conveyor line 32, and an adjustment device 33.

[0080] The lifting mechanism 31 is connected to the third conveyor line 32. When the lifting mechanism 31 is in the lowered position, the third conveyor line 32 is connected to the first conveyor line 11. At this time, the clamping mechanism 12 can move from the first conveyor line 11 to the third conveyor line 32. When the lifting mechanism 31 is in the raised position, the third conveyor line 32 is above the first conveyor line 11. At this time, the lifting mechanism 31 can lift the clamping mechanism 12 through the third conveyor line 32. It should be noted that before the lifting mechanism 31 is in the raised position, the clamping mechanism 12 is in the released state to separate from the vehicle body 102.

[0081] The adjusting device 33 is used to adjust the current clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12, which has been moved to the third conveyor line 32, to the target clamping position. It should be noted that the center of gravity changes after the body 102 and chassis assembly of different vehicle models are assembled together. Adjusting the clamping mechanism 12 to the target clamping position using the adjusting device 33 is equivalent to readjusting the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 after the body 102 and chassis assembly are assembled. This ensures that the clamping mechanism 12 can still stably clamp the assembled body 102 and chassis assembly even after the center of gravity changes, thus preventing the body 102 and chassis assembly from shifting. This configuration allows both load-bearing and non-load-bearing vehicles to share the same clamping mechanism 12, thereby meeting the needs of co-line production of both models and facilitating the flexibility of the assembly line.

[0082] like Figures 2 to 7 as well as Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the lifting mechanism 31 includes a first lifting platform 311, an adjusting platform 312, and a second lifting platform 313, with the first lifting platform 311 and the second lifting platform 313 located on both sides of the adjusting platform 312.

[0083] The third conveyor line 32 includes a first sub-conveyor line 321, a second sub-conveyor line 322 and a third sub-conveyor line 323. The first sub-conveyor line 321 is located between the first conveyor line 11 and the second sub-conveyor line 322. The second sub-conveyor line 322 is located between the first sub-conveyor line 321 and the third sub-conveyor line 323. The first sub-conveyor line 321 is connected to the first elevator 311.

[0084] The adjustment device 33 is installed on the adjustment table 312, which is located below the second sub-conveyor line 322.

[0085] When the first elevator 311 is in the descending position, the first sub-conveyor line 321 is connected to the first conveyor line 11. At this time, the clamping mechanism 12 can move from the first conveyor line 11 to the first sub-conveyor line 321. When the first elevator 311 is in the ascending position, the first sub-conveyor line 321 is connected to the second sub-conveyor line 322. At this time, the first elevator 311 lifts the clamping mechanism 12 through the first sub-conveyor line 321, and the clamping mechanism 12 can move from the first sub-conveyor line 321 to the second sub-conveyor line 322, and the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 is adjusted to the target clamping position by the adjusting device 33. It should be understood that before the first elevator 311 is raised, the clamping mechanism 12 is in the released state, that is, the clamping mechanism 12 is separated from the vehicle body 102. When the second elevator 313 is in the ascending position, the second sub-conveyor line 322 is connected to the third sub-conveyor line 323. At this time, the clamping mechanism 12 can move from the second sub-conveyor line 322 to the third sub-conveyor line 323.

[0086] When the second elevator 313 is in the lowered position, the third sub-conveyor line 323 is located below the second sub-conveyor line 322, so that the clamping mechanism 12 clamps the vehicle body 102. With this configuration, the clamping mechanism 12 can first be lifted by the first elevator 311 to a height misalignment with the vehicle body 102, and then moved to the second sub-conveyor line 322 where its clamping position is adjusted by the adjusting device 33. The first transport vehicle 221 moves along the second conveyor line 21 to a position below the third sub-conveyor line 323, at which point the second elevator 313 lowers the clamping mechanism 12 to re-clamp the assembled vehicle body 102 and chassis assembly. This prevents collisions between the clamping mechanism 12 and the vehicle body 102 during adjustment, and ensures that the clamping mechanism 12 stably clamps the assembled vehicle body 102 and chassis assembly after secondary adjustment. This meets the requirements for co-production of both load-bearing and non-load-bearing vehicles, facilitating the flexibility of the assembly line.

[0087] like Figures 2 to 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the clamping mechanism 12 includes at least two grippers 121, which are located on both sides of the vehicle body 102. The adjustment mechanism includes at least two drive cylinders, which correspond one-to-one with the grippers 121, for adjusting the position of the grippers 121, thereby adjusting the clamping position of the grippers 121 of the clamping mechanism 12 to the target clamping position.

[0088] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line further includes a transfer device 4, which includes a pallet mechanism 41 and a transfer mechanism 42. The pallet mechanism 41 includes a second transport vehicle 411 and a pallet assembly 412, which is mounted on the second transport vehicle 411 and pre-assembled with a support for a first chassis assembly or a second chassis assembly.

[0089] The transfer mechanism 42 includes a transfer bracket 43 and a transfer boom 44. The transfer boom 44 is movably mounted on the transfer bracket 43 and moves between the second transport vehicle 411 and the first transport vehicle 221. The transfer boom 44 can clamp or release the pallet assembly 412. With this configuration, the transfer boom 44 can first clamp the pallet assembly 412 pre-installed with the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly, then transfer the pallet assembly 412 and its pre-installed chassis assembly together to the first transport vehicle 221, and finally release the pallet assembly 412, so that the pallet assembly 412 and its pre-installed chassis assembly are placed on the first transport vehicle 221. Then, the first transport vehicle 221 can move along the second transport line to the assembly position and be assembled with the vehicle body 102.

[0090] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the tray assembly 412 includes a first tray 413 and a second tray 414, which are arranged side-by-side along the length of the vehicle body 102. It should be noted that the first tray 413 is positioned opposite to the first lifting platform 225, and the second tray 414 is positioned opposite to the second lifting platform 227. In some embodiments, a first clamp is mounted on the first tray 413, and a second clamp is mounted on the second tray 414. The first clamp holds the first front suspension assembly and the first powertrain, or the first clamp holds the portion of the frame assembly opposite the front of the vehicle body 102. The second clamp holds the first rear suspension assembly, or the second clamp holds the portion of the frame assembly opposite the rear of the vehicle body 102. Before the vehicle body 102 is assembled with the chassis assembly, the first and second clamps are in a clamping state; after the vehicle body 102 is assembled with the chassis assembly, the first and second clamps are in a released state. This ensures that the chassis assembly remains stable before being assembled with the body 102, and also ensures that the assembled body 102 and chassis assembly can be clamped by the clamping mechanism 12 to the next assembly line to complete the vehicle assembly. It is understood that the second front suspension assembly, the second rear suspension assembly, and the second powertrain are pre-assembled on the chassis assembly.

[0091] The slewing boom 44 includes a first boom 441 and a second boom 442, which are arranged side-by-side along the length of the vehicle body 102. The first boom 441 is opposite to the first pallet 413, and the second boom 442 is opposite to the second pallet 414. It should be understood that the first boom 441 can clamp or release the first pallet 413, and the second boom 442 can clamp or release the second pallet 414. It should be noted that by setting up a double-boom slewing boom 44, the front and rear forces of the chassis assembly can be balanced. This not only meets the requirement for synchronous slewing of the various assemblies in the first or second chassis assembly, but also prevents the frame assemblies, which are respectively equipped with the second front suspension assembly and the second rear suspension assembly, from shifting and falling when lifting the second chassis assembly, thus improving the safety of the slewing process.

[0092] like Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line includes a controller 5, which is electrically connected to both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22. It should be noted that the controller 5 can transmit signals or commands to both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22, thereby controlling the clamping mechanism 12 to be in a clamping or releasing state, and controlling the lifting mechanism 22 to be in a lifting or lowering state.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line further includes a first interior trim line 6 and a first interior trim assembly device. The first interior trim line 6 includes a first sliding plate conveyor line and a third elevator. The third elevator transfers the painted vehicle body 102 to the first sliding plate conveyor line. The first sliding plate conveyor line transports the vehicle body 102 to the first interior trim assembly device, which performs the first interior trim assembly on the vehicle body 102. The first sliding plate conveyor line connects to the first conveyor line 11 to transport the vehicle body 102 to a position opposite to the clamping mechanism 12, which clamps the vehicle body 102.

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line further includes a battery assembly line 7, which includes a third transport vehicle and a fourth conveyor line. The fourth conveyor line is connected to the third sub-transport line. The third transport vehicle carries the battery assembly. When the clamping mechanism 12 moves from the third sub-transport line to the fourth conveyor line and is opposite to the third transport vehicle, it assembles the battery assembly onto the vehicle body 102 or frame. It should be noted that the first transport vehicle 221, the second transport vehicle 411, and the third transport vehicle in the embodiments of this application can be, for example, an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle).

[0095] like Figure 1As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line further includes a second interior trim line 8 and a second interior trim assembly equipment. The second interior trim line 8 includes a second slide conveyor line, which is connected to a fourth conveyor line and is used to transport the vehicle with the battery already assembled to the second interior trim assembly equipment. The second interior trim assembly equipment is used to perform a second interior trim assembly on the vehicle.

[0096] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line also includes a tire line 9, which includes a roller conveyor and a fourth lift. The fourth lift transports the tire assembly along the roller conveyor to the bottom of the vehicle after the second interior assembly is completed, so as to complete the assembly of the tire assembly with the body 102 or chassis assembly.

[0097] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line further includes an adjustment line 10, which includes a fifth elevator, a third slide conveyor line, and at least one adjustment station. The fifth elevator is used to transfer the vehicle body 102, which has completed its second interior assembly, to the third slide conveyor line, which may be, for example, a circular slide conveyor line. The third conveyor line 32 transports the vehicle body 102, which has completed its second interior assembly, to various adjustment stations, where vehicle filling, adjustment, inspection, and other related work can be performed.

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the assembly line also includes a testing line 101, which includes a fifth conveyor line and at least one testing station. The fifth conveyor line is connected to the third sliding plate conveyor line, allowing the vehicle to move from the third sliding plate conveyor line to the fifth conveyor line. The fifth conveyor line transports the vehicle, after adjustment at the adjustment station, to various testing stations, where vehicle-related functions can be calibrated or tested, such as calibration and testing of the four wheels, lights, sideslip, wheel hubs, AVM, ADAS, etc.

[0099] It should be noted that the assembly line also includes a door assembly line for assembling doors on the vehicle body 102, a frame assembly line for mounting the frame assembly on the pallet mechanism 41, an instrument panel assembly line for installing the instrument panel, a road test line for road testing the complete vehicle, a rain test line for rain testing the complete vehicle, and a final inspection line for individual inspection of the complete vehicle. These lines can be arranged in corresponding positions on the assembly line as needed, and this embodiment does not limit their placement.

[0100] As can be seen from the above, the assembly line provided in the embodiments of this application can enable the co-production of the whole vehicle assembly of both load-bearing and non-load-bearing models, thereby not only reducing the space occupied by the assembly lines of different models, but also facilitating flexible production.

[0101] like Figure 13 As shown, on the other hand, this application embodiment also provides an assembly method, which can be executed by a controller 5. The assembly method is used to control the assembly production line of any of the above embodiments of this application. The assembly method includes the following steps 201 to 202.

[0102] In step 201, the controller 5 determines the current position of the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22.

[0103] In step 202, the controller 5 generates a first lifting command in response to both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22 moving to the assembly position.

[0104] The first lifting command is used to instruct the lifting mechanism 22 to switch from the lowering state to the lifting state. With this configuration, when both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22 reach the assembly position, the lifting mechanism 22 switches to the lifting state, so that the vehicle body 102 and the chassis assembly can be assembled.

[0105] It should be noted that the multiple lifting mechanisms 22 and clamping mechanisms 12 in the embodiments of this application have the same composition and function as the lifting mechanisms 22 and clamping mechanisms 12 in any one of the embodiments of this application described above, so the embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0106] In some embodiments, a first position detector is installed at the assembly position. The first position detector is electrically connected to the controller 5 and is used to detect the positions of the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22. The first position detector generates an assembly signal in response to both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22 reaching the assembly position. The controller 5 generates a first lifting command in response to receiving the assembly signal. The lifting mechanism 22 switches to the lifting state in response to receiving the first lifting command, lifting the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly to a preset height. This configuration allows for timely assembly of the vehicle body 102 and the chassis assembly together in one go, avoiding the need for separate assembly of multiple components with the vehicle body 102, thus improving assembly efficiency. Simultaneously, since the lifting mechanism 22 can support multiple first chassis assemblies corresponding to the vehicle body model and multiple second chassis assemblies corresponding to the non-vehicle body model, the two vehicle models can share the same assembly line, eliminating the need for separate assembly lines for each model, reducing the area occupied by the assembly line, and facilitating flexible production.

[0107] like Figure 14 As shown, on the other hand, this application embodiment also provides an assembly method, which can be executed by a controller 5. The assembly method is used to control the assembly production line of any of the above embodiments of this application, and the assembly method includes the following steps 301 to 303.

[0108] In step 301, the controller 5 determines the current positions of the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22.

[0109] In step 302, the controller 5 generates a first lifting command in response to both the clamping mechanism 12 and the lifting mechanism 22 moving to the assembly position.

[0110] The first lifting command is used to instruct the lifting mechanism 22 to switch from the lowering state to the lifting state. It should be noted that step 302 is similar to step 202, therefore, it will not be described again in this embodiment.

[0111] In step 303, the controller 5 generates a first adjustment command in response to the clamping mechanism 12 moving to the adjustment position.

[0112] The first adjustment command is used to instruct the clamping mechanism 12 to adjust its current clamping position to the target clamping position, which is the position corresponding to the adjustment device 33 of the adjustment line 3.

[0113] In some embodiments, a second position detector electrically connected to the controller 5 is provided at the adjustment position. The second position detector is used to detect the position of the clamping mechanism 12. In response to the clamping mechanism 12 reaching the adjustment position, the second position detector generates an adjustment signal. In response to receiving the adjustment signal, the controller 5 generates a first adjustment command.

[0114] In some embodiments, step 303 includes the following three steps:

[0115] In the first step, the controller 5 responds to the clamping mechanism 12 moving to the adjustment position and obtains the target identifier corresponding to the vehicle body 102 currently clamped by the clamping mechanism 12.

[0116] In some embodiments, the target identifier is the number or image corresponding to the vehicle body 102 currently held by the clamping mechanism 12. The target identifier is used to indicate the type of the vehicle body 102, such as a unibody vehicle or a non-unibody vehicle.

[0117] The second step is for controller 5 to determine the target clamping position corresponding to the target identifier based on the target identifier.

[0118] The target clamping position corresponds one-to-one with the target identifier, thereby determining the vehicle model currently clamped by the clamping mechanism 12 based on the target identifier, and thus determining the target clamping position corresponding to that vehicle model. It should be noted that the center of gravity position changes after the body 102 and chassis assembly are assembled on different vehicle models. Using the assembly method provided in this application embodiment, the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 can be adjusted promptly after the body 102 and chassis assembly are assembled, thereby avoiding tilting or other phenomena when clamping the assembled body 102 and chassis assembly, and thus improving the safety of the assembly process.

[0119] Third, controller 5 generates the first adjustment command based on the target clamping position.

[0120] Using the assembly method of this application, the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 can be readjusted after the body 102 and chassis assembly are assembled, according to different vehicle models, so as to re-clamp the body 102 and the chassis assembly assembled with the body 102. In this way, the same assembly line can meet the clamping and transfer needs of different vehicle models, thereby eliminating the need to equip different vehicle models with separate assembly lines, reducing the space occupied by assembly lines for different vehicle models, and also facilitating flexible production.

[0121] In some embodiments, the assembly method further includes: In response to the clamping mechanism 12 reaching the first sub-conveyor line 321, the controller 5 controls the first elevator 311 to rise from a lowered position to an ascending position, thereby causing the clamping mechanism 12 to rise and enabling it to move onto the second sub-conveyor line 322. In response to the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 being adjusted to a target clamping position, the controller 5 controls the second elevator 313 to rise from a lowered position to an ascending position, thereby enabling the clamping mechanism 12 to move from the second sub-conveyor line 322 to the third sub-conveyor line 323. In response to the clamping mechanism 12 being located on the third sub-conveyor line 323 and the lifting mechanism 22 having moved below the third sub-conveyor line 323, the controller 5 controls the second elevator 313 to descend from the ascending position to a lowered position, and controls the clamping mechanism 12 to clamp the vehicle body 102 with the chassis assembly already assembled.

[0122] By using the assembly method provided in this application embodiment, after the body 102 and chassis assembly are assembled, the clamping position of the clamping mechanism 12 can be readjusted for different models, and the body 102 with the chassis assembly can be re-clamped, thereby ensuring the safety of the transportation process and enabling different models to be assembled on the same line, which is conducive to achieving flexible production.

[0123] In this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise expressly defined.

[0124] Other embodiments of this application will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only.

[0125] It should be understood that this application is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An assembly production line, characterized in that, The assembly line includes a body line (1), a chassis assembly line (2), and an adjustment line (3). The vehicle body line (1) includes a first conveyor line (11) and a clamping mechanism (12). The clamping mechanism (12) moves along the first conveyor line (11) and is used to clamp the vehicle body. The chassis assembly line (2) includes a second conveyor line (21) and a lifting mechanism (22). The lifting mechanism (22) moves along the second conveyor line (21). The body line (1) is located above the chassis assembly line (2). The lifting mechanism (22) carries a first chassis assembly corresponding to a load-bearing vehicle or a second chassis assembly corresponding to a non-load-bearing vehicle on the side facing the body line (1). When the clamping mechanism (12) and the lifting mechanism (22) move to the assembly position respectively, the lifting mechanism (22) is in the lifting state, and the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly is assembled with the corresponding vehicle body; The adjustment line (3) includes a lifting mechanism (31), a third conveyor line (32), and an adjustment device (33); the lifting mechanism (31) is connected to the third conveyor line (32); when the lifting mechanism (31) is in the descending position, the third conveyor line (32) is connected to the first conveyor line (11); when the lifting mechanism (31) is in the ascending position, the third conveyor line (32) is located above the first conveyor line (11); the adjustment device (33) is used to adjust the clamps moved onto the third conveyor line (32). The current clamping position of the mechanism (12) is adjusted to the target clamping position; the lifting mechanism (31) includes a first lifting platform (311), an adjusting platform (312), and a second lifting platform (313), the first lifting platform (311) and the second lifting platform (313) being located on both sides of the adjusting platform (312); wherein, the third conveyor line (32) includes a first sub-conveyor line (321), a second sub-conveyor line (322), and a third sub-conveyor line (323), the first sub-conveyor line (321) being located on the first conveyor line ( 11) and the second sub-conveyor line (322), the second sub-conveyor line (322) being located between the first sub-conveyor line (321) and the third sub-conveyor line (323), the first sub-conveyor line (321) being connected to the first elevator (311); the adjusting device (33) being installed on the adjusting platform (312), the adjusting platform (312) being located below the second sub-conveyor line (322); wherein, when the first elevator (311) is in the descending position, the first sub-conveyor line (321) The first sub-conveyor line (321) is connected to the first conveyor line (11); when the first elevator (311) is in the rising position, the first sub-conveyor line (321) is connected to the second sub-conveyor line (322); when the second elevator (313) is in the rising position, the second sub-conveyor line (322) is connected to the third sub-conveyor line (323); when the second elevator (313) is in the falling position, the third sub-conveyor line (323) is located below the second sub-conveyor line (322) so that the clamping mechanism (12) clamps the vehicle body.

2. The assembly production line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism (22) includes a first transport vehicle (221), a first lifting assembly (222), and a second lifting assembly (223); The first lifting assembly (222) and the second lifting assembly (223) are respectively mounted on the first transport vehicle (221) in a lifting manner, and the first lifting assembly (222) and the second lifting assembly (223) are arranged side by side in the length direction of the vehicle body.

3. The assembly production line according to claim 2, characterized in that, The assembly line also includes a transfer device (4), which includes a pallet mechanism (41) and a transfer mechanism (42). The pallet mechanism (41) includes a second transport vehicle (411) and a pallet assembly (412), the pallet assembly (412) being mounted on the second transport vehicle (411), and the pallet assembly (412) being pre-assembled with a support for the first chassis assembly or the second chassis assembly; The transfer mechanism (42) includes a transfer bracket (43) and a transfer boom (44), the transfer boom (44) being movably mounted on the transfer bracket (43), the transfer boom (44) being movable between the second transport vehicle (411) and the first transport vehicle (221), and the transfer boom (44) being able to clamp or release the pallet assembly (412).

4. The assembly production line according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pallet assembly (412) includes a first pallet (413) and a second pallet (414), which are arranged side by side in the length direction of the vehicle body; The slewing boom (44) includes a first boom (441) and a second boom (442). The first boom (441) and the second boom (442) are arranged side by side in the length direction of the vehicle body. The first boom (441) is opposite to the first pallet (413), and the second boom (442) is opposite to the second pallet (414).

5. The assembly production line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The assembly line includes a controller (5), which is electrically connected to the clamping mechanism (12) and the lifting mechanism (22).

6. An assembly method, characterized in that, The assembly method is used to control the assembly production line according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the assembly method comprising: Determine the current positions of the clamping mechanism (12) and the lifting mechanism (22); In response to both the clamping mechanism (12) and the lifting mechanism (22) moving to the assembly position, a first lifting command is generated, wherein the first lifting command is used to instruct the lifting mechanism (22) to switch from the lowering state to the lifting state.

7. The assembly method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The assembly method further includes: In response to the clamping mechanism (12) moving to the adjustment position, a first adjustment command is generated, wherein the first adjustment command is used to instruct the current clamping position of the clamping mechanism (12) to be adjusted to the target clamping position.

8. The assembly method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first adjustment command generated in response to the clamping mechanism (12) moving to the adjustment position includes: In response to the clamping mechanism (12) moving to the adjustment position, the target identifier corresponding to the vehicle body currently clamped by the clamping mechanism (12) is obtained; Based on the target identifier, determine the target clamping position corresponding to the target identifier; Based on the target clamping position, a first adjustment command is generated.

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