Visual inspection equipment and VDA connector visual inspection method

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of visual detection equipment, and particularly relates to visual detection equipment and a VDA connector visual detection method. The fixing mechanisms are mounted on the feeding mechanism in an array distribution manner and are used for fixing the to-be-detected joint; the detection mechanism is arranged in the detection cavity in the detection box and is used for detecting the two ends of the joint; the auxiliary mechanism is arranged on the detection box; the dust collection mechanism is arranged on the detection box and is used for collecting dust; wherein the auxiliary mechanism comprises a gas transmission part, the gas transmission part is arranged on the back surface of the detection box, a dust removal part is arranged in a detection cavity in the detection box, and a first control part and a second control part are mounted on the top surface of the detection box. The defects of a traditional joint detection method are overcome by improving the detection efficiency and accuracy, increasing dust removal measures and simplifying the classification process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of vision inspection equipment, and particularly relates to a vision inspection equipment and a VDA connector vision inspection method. Background Art

[0002] In modern industrial production, the quality inspection of precision components such as connectors is an important link to ensure product performance and reliability. Traditional connector inspection methods often rely on manual visual inspection or simple mechanical measuring tools. These methods are not only inefficient and costly, but also easily affected by human factors, resulting in inaccurate and unreliable inspection results.

[0003] In order to improve the inspection effect and efficiency, automated vision inspection equipment is generally used. For example, Chinese Patent CN109499916B provides a vision inspection method for pipe connectors. It realizes the automated transportation of pipe connectors well through a conveyor line, and respectively realizes their respective inspection functions through an endoscope inspection mechanism, an outer surface inspection mechanism, and a three-camera inspection mechanism arranged in sequence during the transportation process. After distinguishing the pipe connectors as qualified products, defective products, or waste products, sorting and collection can be carried out. Overall, it realizes mechanical automation, and only one person is required to monitor and control the device, effectively saving manpower, improving the quality inspection efficiency and quality inspection quality, being beneficial to improving product quality, and ensuring economic benefits.

[0004] Although patents such as the above achieve the purpose of automated inspection, there are still some deficiencies in the use process: First of all, there is a lack of effective dust removal measures. Dust and other tiny particles adhering to the workpiece to be inspected may interfere with the image acquisition process of the camera, thereby affecting the accuracy of the inspection results; Secondly, in terms of classifying and discharging unqualified products and qualified products, an additional sorting mechanism is required to complete this task, which needs to be combined with multiple driving components, increasing production and maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a vision inspection equipment and a VDA connector vision inspection method, which overcome the deficiencies of traditional connector inspection methods by improving inspection efficiency and accuracy, adding dust removal measures, and simplifying the classification process, and significantly improve the inspection effect and economic benefits of connectors.

[0006] The technical solutions adopted by the present invention are specifically as follows: A vision inspection equipment, including an inspection box, the upper end of the inspection box is provided with an inspection cavity, and a feeding mechanism is installed in the inspection cavity; A fixing mechanism, the fixing mechanism is installed on the feeding mechanism in an array distribution, and is used for fixing the connector to be inspected; A detection mechanism, which is arranged in a detection cavity on the detection box and is used to detect both ends of the connector; An auxiliary mechanism, which is arranged on the detection box and is used to assist in detecting the connector; A dust collection mechanism, which is arranged on the detection box and is used to collect dust; Among them, the auxiliary mechanism includes an air delivery part, the air delivery part is arranged on the back of the detection box, a dust removal part is arranged in the detection cavity on the detection box, and a first control part and a second control part are installed on the top surface of the detection box.

[0007] In a preferred scheme, a first discharge chute and a second discharge chute are opened on the detection box, a first blocking rod and a second blocking rod are respectively arranged above the first discharge chute and the second discharge chute. Among them, the first blocking rod is slidably connected in the detection cavity on the detection box, and the second blocking rod is fixedly connected in the detection cavity on the detection box.

[0008] In a preferred scheme, the feeding mechanism includes a rotating rod, both of the two rotating rods are rotatably connected to the detection cavity on the detection box through bearings, two transmission gears are fixedly installed on the rotating rod, tooth belts are installed on the corresponding transmission gears on the two rotating rods, and a motor is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box, and the output shaft of the motor is fixedly connected to the central rotating shaft of one of the rotating rods.

[0009] In a preferred scheme, the fixing mechanism includes a fixing seat, the fixing seat is connected to the tooth belt, two sliding chutes are arranged on the fixing seat, movable blocks are slidably connected in the sliding chutes, and tension springs are fixedly connected between the movable blocks and the inner walls of the sliding chutes. A connecting rod is fixedly connected to the fixing seat, a clamping plate is fixedly connected to the connecting rod, a rotating seat is also fixedly connected to a part of the connecting rod, a stress rod is rotatably connected to the rotating seat, and a torsion spring is fixedly connected between the rotating shaft of the stress rod and the rotating seat.

[0010] In a preferred scheme, the detection mechanism includes a protective shell and a camera, both the protective shell and the camera are fixedly installed in the detection cavity on the detection box, and the imaging end of the camera extends into the protective shell. A baffle is slidably inserted into the upper end of the protective shell, a compression spring is fixedly connected to the baffle, and the compression spring is fixedly connected to the detection box.

[0011] In a preferred scheme, the air delivery part includes an air pump, the air pump is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box, the exhaust end of the air pump is communicated with an exhaust pipe, and one end of the exhaust pipe is communicated with a first shunt pipe and a second shunt pipe.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the dust removal part includes a drainage pipe. Both of the two drainage pipes are connected to the first shunt pipe, and the other end of the drainage pipe extends into the detection cavity on the detection box. The lower end of the drainage pipe is connected to a jet hood. A high-voltage power generator is installed inside the jet hood, and discharge electrodes are connected to the high-voltage power generator in an array. Among them, a sleeve block is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe by a support rod. A moving rod is slidably connected to the center of the sleeve block. One end of the moving rod is fixedly connected to a blocking plate, and the other end is fixedly connected to a circular plate. A first spring is fixedly connected between the circular plate and the sleeve block. A diversion seat is also fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe. The dust collection mechanism includes a dust collection groove. A dust collection groove is provided on the detection box. A collection box is inserted into the upper end of the dust collection groove, and a negative pressure fan is installed at the lower end of the dust collection groove.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the first control part includes a first air cylinder. The first air cylinder is fixedly connected to the top surface of the detection box. A first piston block is slidably connected inside the first air cylinder. The lower end of the first air cylinder is piston-connected with a first lifting rod, and one end of the first lifting rod is fixedly connected to the first piston block, and the other end is fixedly connected to a baffle plate. The upper end of the first air cylinder is connected to an air delivery pipe, and the air delivery pipe is communicated with the second shunt pipe.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the second control part includes a second air cylinder. The second air cylinder is communicated with the end of the second shunt pipe. The upper end of the second air cylinder is piston-connected with a second lifting rod. The lower end of the second lifting rod is fixedly connected to a second piston block. A second spring is fixedly connected between the second piston block and the inner wall of the second air cylinder. The upper end of the second lifting rod is fixedly connected to a lifting plate. A pull rod is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the lifting plate, and the lower end of the pull rod penetrates through the upper end of the detection box and is fixedly connected to a first blocking rod.

[0015] A VDA joint vision detection method, applied to the above-mentioned vision detection device, includes the following steps: Step 1: Install the joint to be detected on the fixing mechanism, and start the feeding mechanism to drive the joint on the fixing mechanism to move. Step 2: When the joint moves to the detection mechanism, visually detect the joint through the detection mechanism. Step 3: When the joint is moving, start the air delivery part, remove the dust adhered to both ends of the joint through the dust removal part, and then collect the cleaned dust through the dust collection mechanism. Step 4: After the air delivery part is started, the first control part operates synchronously with the air delivery part and protects the detection mechanism. Step 5: When a non - qualified joint is detected, the second control unit operates to drive the first blocking rod to move upward. At this time, blocked by the first blocking rod, the non - qualified joint drops and is discharged along the first discharge chute, while the qualified joint drops blocked by the second blocking rod and is discharged along the second discharge chute.

[0016] The technical effects achieved by the present invention are as follows: By using a camera and an image analysis system to conduct a detailed visual inspection on both ends of the joint, and cleaning the object to be detected by the dust removal unit before detection, the present invention effectively eliminates the interference of dust and other fine particles on the detection result, greatly improving the detection accuracy and reliability. In addition, the design of the protective shell and the automatic lifting function of the baffle further ensure the cleanliness of the camera lens, thus guaranteeing the quality of image acquisition. In traditional methods, the task of classifying and discharging non - qualified products and qualified products usually requires an additional sorting mechanism, which increases production and maintenance costs. However, the present invention realizes the automatic classification of joints through an auxiliary mechanism and two blocking rods. When a non - qualified joint is detected, the second control unit operates to drive the first blocking rod to move upward, causing the non - qualified joint to drop into the first discharge chute; for qualified joints, they will naturally drop into the second discharge chute when passing through the second blocking rod. This design avoids the use of an additional sorting mechanism, simplifies the structure, reduces production costs, and improves the overall working efficiency. The present invention not only focuses on improving detection accuracy and realizing automatic classification, but also conducts comprehensive optimization from multiple perspectives to enhance economic benefits. For example, the design of the dust collection mechanism can not only effectively collect the cleaned dust, reduce environmental pollution, but also reduce the equipment failure rate caused by dust and extend the service life of the equipment. In addition, the entire system is connected to external devices (such as a computer), and the working states of each component can be accurately controlled through software to achieve intelligent management, reducing the need for manual monitoring and saving human resource costs. Description of the Drawings

[0017] Figure 1 is the overall structural schematic diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 is the structural schematic diagram after the top protective cover of the detection box of the present invention is disassembled; Figure 3 is the present invention Figure 2 rear view; Figure 4 is the shallow cross - sectional view of the detection box of the present invention; Figure 5 is the present invention Figure 4 front view; Figure 6 is the deep cross - sectional view of the detection box of the present invention; Figure 7 It is a schematic internal structure diagram of the jet hood of the present invention; Figure 8 It is a schematic internal structure diagram of the first shunt pipe of the present invention; Figure 9 It is a schematic structural diagram of the first control part and the second control part of the present invention; Figure 10 It is the present invention Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of part B shown in the present invention; Figure 11 It is the present invention Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of part C shown in the present invention; Figure 12 It is the present invention Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of part D shown in the present invention; Figure 13 It is the present invention Figure 4 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A shown in the present invention; Figure 14 It is a connection schematic diagram of the transposon and the stress rod of the present invention; Figure 15 It is a connection schematic diagram of the fixed seat and the movable block of the present invention.

[0018] In the drawings, the list of components represented by each reference numeral is as follows: 1. Detection box; 11. First blanking chute; 111. First blocking rod; 12. Second blanking chute; 121. Second blocking rod; 2. Feeding mechanism; 3. Fixing mechanism; 4. Detection mechanism; 5. Auxiliary mechanism; 6. Dust collection mechanism; 21. Rotating rod; 22. Transmission gear; 23. Toothed belt; 24. Motor; 31. Fixed seat; 32. Movable block; 33. Tension spring; 34. Connecting rod; 35. Clamping plate; 36. Swivel base; 37. Stress rod; 38. Torsion spring; 41. Protective shell; 42. Camera; 43. Baffle; 44. Compression spring; 61. Dust collection tank; 62. Collection box; 63. Negative pressure fan; 51. Air delivery part; 52. Dust removal part; 53. First control part; 54. Second control part; 511. Air pump; 512. Exhaust pipe; 513. First shunt pipe; 514. Second shunt pipe; 521. Drainage pipe; 522. Jet hood; 523. High-voltage power generator; 524. Discharge electrode; 5211. Sleeve block; 5212. Moving rod; 5213. Flow guide seat; 5214. Sealing plate; 5215. Circular plate; 5216. First spring; 531. First air cylinder; 532. First lifting rod; 533. First piston block; 534. Air delivery pipe; 541. Second air cylinder; 542. Second lifting rod; 543. Second piston block; 544. Second spring; 545. Lifting plate; 546. Pull rod; 547. Solenoid valve. Detailed implementation manners

[0019] In order to make the above objects, features and advantages of the present invention more obvious and understandable, the following will describe in detail the specific implementation manners of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings of the specification.

[0020] In the following description, many specific details are set forth in order to fully understand the present invention. However, the present invention can also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the connotation of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited by the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0021] Secondly, the so-called "one embodiment" or "embodiment" herein refers to a specific feature, structure or characteristic that can be included in at least one implementation manner of the present invention. The phrase "in a preferred embodiment" appearing in different places in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that excludes other embodiments.

[0022] Thirdly, the present invention is described in detail with reference to the schematic diagrams. When detailing the embodiments of the present invention, for the convenience of explanation, the cross-sectional views showing the device structure will be enlarged locally in an unconventional proportion, and the schematic diagrams are only examples and should not limit the scope of protection of the present invention herein. In addition, in actual production, three-dimensional spatial dimensions including length, width and depth should be included.

[0023] Please refer to the attached Figures 1 to 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a visual inspection device, including a detection box 1. A detection cavity is opened at the upper end of the detection box 1, and a feeding mechanism 2 is installed in the detection cavity; A fixing mechanism 3, which is installed on the feeding mechanism 2 in an array distribution, is used to fix the joints to be detected; A detection mechanism 4, which is arranged in the detection cavity on the detection box 1, is used to detect both ends of the joint; An auxiliary mechanism 5, which is arranged on the detection box 1, is used to assist in detecting the joint; A dust collection mechanism 6, which is arranged on the detection box 1, is used to collect dust; Among them, the auxiliary mechanism 5 includes an air delivery part 51, which is arranged on the back of the detection box 1. A dust removal part 52 is arranged in the detection cavity on the detection box 1, and a first control part 53 and a second control part 54 are installed on the top surface of the detection box 1.

[0024] In this embodiment, the detection box 1 is connected to an external device (such as a computer control device).

[0025] Secondly, please refer to again Figures 4 to 6 , on the detection box 1, a first blanking groove 11 and a second blanking groove 12 are provided. Above the first blanking groove 11 and the second blanking groove 12, a first blocking rod 111 and a second blocking rod 121 are respectively arranged. Among them, the first blocking rod 111 is slidably connected in the detection cavity on the detection box 1, and the second blocking rod 121 is fixedly connected in the detection cavity on the detection box 1.

[0026] In this embodiment, through the two provided blanking grooves and two blocking rods, the qualified or unqualified joints are classified and discharged.

[0027] Thirdly, please refer to Figure 4 , the feeding mechanism 2 includes a rotating rod 21. Both rotating rods 21 are rotatably connected to the detection cavity on the detection box 1 through bearings. Two transmission gears 22 are fixedly installed on the rotating rod 21. Tooth belts 23 are installed on the corresponding transmission gears 22 on the two rotating rods 21. A motor 24 is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box 1, and the output shaft of the motor 24 is fixedly connected to the central rotating shaft of one of the rotating rods 21.

[0028] In this embodiment, by starting the motor 24, one of the rotating rods 21 can be driven to start rotating. At the same time, transmission gears 22 are respectively installed on the two rotating rods 21, and these transmission gears 22 are connected to each other through the tooth belt 23. Therefore, when one rotating rod 21 starts to rotate, the tooth belt 23 will move accordingly, and then the other rotating rod 21 will also rotate synchronously. This synchronous rotation mechanism ensures that the tooth belt 23 can move smoothly and continuously. The movement of the tooth belt 23 not only drives the movement of the fixing mechanism 3, but also makes the joints on the fixing mechanism 3 move accordingly, thus realizing the coordinated operation of the entire system.

[0029] It should be noted that: the working mode of the motor 24 is intermittent. The motor 24 will pause after operating for a period of time to ensure that when the joint moves to the position of the detection mechanism 4, it can stop for a period of time. During this stopped time, the system will perform an imaging operation on the probe. And a new probe to be detected will be placed in the leftmost fixing mechanism 3 for the next round of detection work. This intermittent working mode and synchronous mechanism together ensure the high efficiency and accuracy of the entire detection process.

[0030] Secondly, please refer to again Figures 13 to 15, the fixing mechanism 3 includes a fixing base 31 which is connected to the toothed belt 23. Two sliding grooves are provided on the fixing base 31, and movable blocks 32 are slidably connected in the sliding grooves. A tension spring 33 is fixedly connected between the movable blocks 32 and the inner walls of the sliding grooves. A connecting rod 34 is fixedly connected to the fixing base 31, and a clamping plate 35 is fixedly connected to the connecting rod 34. A rotating base 36 is also fixedly connected to a part of the connecting rod 34. A stress rod 37 is rotatably connected to the rotating base 36, and a torsion spring 38 is fixedly connected between the rotating shaft of the stress rod 37 and the rotating base 36.

[0031] In this embodiment, during the process of joint detection, first, the joint to be detected needs to be placed on the fixing mechanism 3 manually or by using a manipulator. The moment the joint just contacts the two clamping plates 35, it will cause the two clamping plates 35 to move away from each other. This movement of moving away from each other will further cause the connecting rod 34 and the movable block 32 to move away from each other, and at the same time stretch the tension spring 33. After the joint is inserted into the interior of the two clamping plates 35, the tension spring 33 will start to act due to its own restoring force, pushing the two clamping plates 35 to move closer to each other. Through this movement of moving closer to each other, the two clamping plates 35 can firmly clamp and fix the joint, preparing for the subsequent detection work.

[0032] In addition, it should be particularly pointed out that the joint is first fixed on the fixing mechanism 3 at the leftmost end. In this detection system, the rotation direction of the transmission gear 22 is set to be counterclockwise. Such a design enables the transmission gear 22 to effectively drive the joint on the fixing mechanism 3 to move from left to right during the counterclockwise rotation.

[0033] Please refer to again Figure 5 and Figure 10 , the detection mechanism 4 includes a protective shell 41 and a camera 42. The protective shell 41 and the camera 42 are both fixedly installed in the detection cavity on the detection box 1, and the imaging end of the camera 42 extends into the protective shell 41. A baffle 43 is slidably inserted into the upper end of the protective shell 41. A compression spring 44 is fixedly connected to the baffle 43, and the compression spring 44 is fixedly connected to the detection box 1.

[0034] In this embodiment, when the connector moves to the position where the camera 42 is located, the system in the external device starts an automatic detection process. During this process, the image information at both ends of the connector is collected by the cameras 42 at both ends of the connector. This image information is then transmitted to the analysis system in the external device, and the system performs a comparative analysis using a pre-set standard template. Through this comparative analysis, the system can accurately determine whether there are defects in the connector, thereby deciding whether the connector meets the quality standards, that is, determining whether the connector is qualified. To ensure the normal operation of the camera 42 and extend its service life, a protective case 41 is provided for it. The function of the protective case 41 is to protect the imaging end of the camera 42. In addition, to further ensure the accuracy and safety of the detection process, a lifting baffle 43 is designed. The baffle 43 can automatically descend at an appropriate time to seal the port of the protective case 41, which can effectively prevent the intrusion of external pollutants, ensure the cleanliness and stability of the entire detection environment, and thus improve the reliability of the detection results.

[0035] Please refer to again Figure 3 , the gas transmission part 51 includes an air pump 511. The air pump 511 is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box 1. The exhaust end of the air pump 511 is communicated with an exhaust pipe 512, and one end of the exhaust pipe 512 is communicated with a first shunt pipe 513 and a second shunt pipe 514.

[0036] Please refer to again Figures 4 to 7 , the dust removal part 52 includes a diversion pipe 521. Both diversion pipes 521 are communicated with the first shunt pipe 513, and the other end of the diversion pipe 521 extends into the detection cavity on the detection box 1. The lower end of the diversion pipe 521 is communicated with a jet hood 522. A high-voltage power generator 523 is installed inside the jet hood 522. Discharge electrodes 524 are connected to the high-voltage power generator 523 in an array. The dust collection mechanism 6 includes a dust collection groove 61. A dust collection groove 61 is opened on the detection box 1. A collection box 62 is inserted into the upper end of the dust collection groove 61, and a negative pressure fan 63 is installed at the lower end of the dust collection groove 61.

[0037] In this embodiment, after the joint is fixed, when it starts to move toward the position of the detection mechanism 4, the air pump 511 is started. With the start of the air pump 511, the gas begins to flow along the exhaust pipe 512 and enters the first shunt pipe 513 and the second shunt pipe 514 respectively. After entering the first shunt pipe 513, the gas will continue to move along the drainage pipe 521 and finally reach the inside of the jet hood 522. Inside the jet hood 522, the gas is guided to be blown out, and its force directly acts on the two ends of the joint. At the same time, a high-voltage power generator 523 is installed inside the jet hood 522. This high-voltage power generator 523 can release powerful high-voltage electrical energy. These high-voltage electrical energies ionize the airflow passing through through the discharge electrode 524, thereby generating a large number of positive ions and negative ions. These ions are finally discharged from the jet holes set on the jet hood 522 along with the movement of the airflow. In the process of discharge, these ions will blow to the two ends of the joint, and neutralize the static charges at the two ends of the joint and in the air. In this way, static electricity can be effectively eliminated and dust adhesion can be avoided. The dust deposited on the end of the connector can be blown away by the airflow, thereby keeping the connector clean and avoiding dust interfering with the image acquisition of the camera 42, resulting in a decrease in image quality and affecting subsequent image processing and analysis.

[0038] When the dust removal unit 52 starts to operate, the negative pressure fan 63 is started synchronously. The start of the negative pressure fan 63 generates negative pressure inside the dust collecting tank 61, thereby generating suction at the through hole at the top of the dust collecting tank 61. This suction can effectively suck dust into the dust collecting tank 61, and then the dust will be collected in the collection box 62.

[0039] It should be noted that: the lower end of the dust collecting tank 61 is provided with air holes, which are used to allow air circulation. The collection box 62 is designed to be drawer-shaped and is set on the detection box 1 in a pull-out manner. A filter is also provided inside the storage tank of the collection box 62. The filter is designed to only allow air circulation and prevent dust from moving further downward, thereby collecting dust in the collection box 62. After a period of use, the operator can pull the collection box 62 out of the dust collecting tank 61 and clean the collected dust to ensure the continued efficient operation of the equipment.

[0040] Please refer again Figures 9 to 11 The first control unit 53 includes a first gas cylinder 531, which is fixedly connected to the top surface of the detection box 1. A first piston block 533 is slidably connected inside the first gas cylinder 531. A first lifting rod 532 is piston-plugged at the lower end of the first gas cylinder 531, and one end of the first lifting rod 532 is fixedly connected to the first piston block 533, and the other end is fixedly connected to the baffle 43. An air supply pipe 534 is connected to the upper end of the first gas cylinder 531, and the air supply pipe 534 is connected to the second shunt pipe 514.

[0041] In this embodiment, after the gas enters the second shunt pipe 514, it flows through the gas transmission pipe 534 to the first air cylinder 531. As the air pressure inside the first air cylinder 531 gradually increases, the first piston block 533 will be squeezed and thus start to move downward. The downward movement of the first piston block 533 will drive the first lifting rod 532 to move downward accordingly. The downward movement of the first lifting rod 532 will further cause the baffle 43 to move downward along the protective housing 41 and simultaneously compress the compression spring 44. The downward movement of the baffle 43 will effectively seal the port of the protective housing 41. The purpose of doing this is to prevent the dust splashing everywhere from adhering to the lens of the camera 42 during the process of dust removal of the docking head, thereby avoiding contamination of the lens of the camera 42. Maintaining the cleanliness of the lens is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of image acquisition. When the docking head moves to the position of the detection mechanism 4, the motor 24, the air pump 511, and the negative pressure fan 63 will immediately stop working. Subsequently, the air pressure inside the first air cylinder 531 will immediately decrease, and under the action of the restoring force, the compression spring 44 will push the baffle 43 to continue moving downward. The upward movement of the baffle 43 will further cause the first lifting rod 532 and the first piston block 533 to return to their initial positions. At this time, the port of the protective housing 41 will be reopened, and the camera 42 can start the imaging work.

[0042] Please refer to again Figure 9 and Figure 11 , the second control unit 54 includes a second air cylinder 541. The second air cylinder 541 is connected to the end of the second shunt pipe 514. The upper end of the second air cylinder 541 is piston - type inserted with a second lifting rod 542. The lower end of the second lifting rod 542 is fixedly connected with a second piston block 543. A second spring 544 is fixedly connected between the second piston block 543 and the inner wall of the second air cylinder 541. The upper end of the second lifting rod 542 is fixedly connected with a lifting plate 545. The bottom surface of the lifting plate 545 is fixedly connected with a pull rod 546, and the lower end of the pull rod 546 penetrates through the upper end of the detection box 1 and is fixedly connected with the first blocking rod 111.

[0043] In this embodiment, after the detection program is completed, the motor 24 is immediately started, causing the connector to continue moving to the right. At the same time, the air pump 511 and the negative pressure fan 63 are started to ensure the smooth progress of subsequent operations. When the detection system identifies a quality problem with the connector, the solenoid valve 547 is immediately activated. Once the solenoid valve 547 is opened, gas will flow along the second shunt pipe 514 to the second air cylinder 541. As the air pressure inside the second air cylinder 541 gradually increases, the second piston block 543 will be pressured to move upward. The upward movement of the second piston block 543 will drive the second lifting rod 542 and the lifting plate 545 to move upward together. As the lifting plate 545 rises, the pull rod 546 and the first blocking rod 111 will also move upward accordingly. When the fixing mechanism 3 moves to the position of the first blocking rod 111, the force-bearing rod 37 will be blocked by the first blocking rod 111 and cannot continue to move to the right. At this time, the connecting rod 34, the clamping plate 35, and the movable block 32 on the left side of the fixing mechanism 3 will also stop moving to the right and will stretch the tension spring 33. At the same time, the clamping plate 35 on the right side of the fixing mechanism 3 continues to move to the right, causing the two clamping plates 35 to move away from each other, thus losing the fixing effect on the connector, and finally the connector drops into the first blanking chute 11 and is discharged along the first blanking chute 11. After blocking the force-bearing rod 37 for a period of time, the movable block 32 will move to the maximum stroke along the fixed seat 31. At this time, the movable block 32 can no longer move and no longer stretches the tension spring 33. At this time, the force-bearing rod 37 will be subjected to a large force and rotate along the rotating seat 36, twisting the torsion spring 38. After the force-bearing rod 37 rotates to a certain extent, it will pass through the first blocking rod 111. After passing through the first blocking rod 111, under the influence of the torsion spring 38 and the tension spring 33, the force-bearing rod 37 and the clamping plate 35 will return to their original positions. If the detected connector is qualified, the solenoid valve 547 will remain closed, and at this time, no gas will enter the second air cylinder 541, and the first blocking rod 111 will not rise. In this case, the force-bearing rod 37 on the fixing mechanism 3 will not contact the first blocking rod 111. Similarly, when the qualified connector follows the fixing mechanism 3 and passes through the first blocking rod 111 and then moves to the position of the second blocking rod 121, under the influence of the second blocking rod 121, the two clamping plates 35 will move away from each other, causing the connector to drop into the second blanking chute 12 and be discharged along the second blanking chute 12. Through this mechanism, qualified and unqualified products can be effectively separated, thus avoiding the need for an additional sorting mechanism for sorting work.

[0044] When the next joint to be detected moves to the position of the detection mechanism 4, the motor 24, the air pump 511, and the negative pressure fan 63 will stop working. After the air pump 511 stops working, the air pressure in the second air cylinder 541 will drop rapidly. Subsequently, the solenoid valve 547 will be closed, and under the restoring force of the second spring 544, it will push the second piston block 543, the second lifting rod 542, the pull rod 546, and the first blocking rod 111 to reset. It is not until the next unqualified joint is detected that the solenoid valve 547 will open with the restart of the air pump 511, thereby driving the first blocking rod 111 to move upward to prepare for the next round of detection and separation operations.

[0045] Please refer to again Figure 8 , a sleeve block 5211 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe 513 by a support rod. A moving rod 5212 is slidably connected to the center of the sleeve block 5211. One end of the moving rod 5212 is fixedly connected to a blocking plate 5214, and the other end is fixedly connected to a circular plate 5215. A first spring 5216 is fixedly connected between the circular plate 5215 and the sleeve block 5211. A diversion seat 5213 is also fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe 513.

[0046] In this embodiment, in order to ensure sufficient air pressure in the second shunt pipe 514 and enable the first control part 53 and the second control part 54 to respond quickly. A blocking structure is provided at the air inlet end of the first shunt pipe 513, so that the gas can first enter the second shunt pipe 514, thereby prompting the first control part 53 and the second control part 54 to respond quickly. When the air pressure in the first shunt pipe 513 reaches a certain level, it will push the blocking plate 5214 to move away from the diversion seat 5213. The movement of the blocking plate 5214 drives the movement of the moving rod 5212 and the circular plate 5215, and compresses the first spring 5216. At this time, the gas can flow through the gap between the diversion seat 5213 and the blocking plate 5214, and then flow into the subsequent path.

[0047] The detection box 1 is connected to external devices (such as computer control devices), and the collected images are analyzed through the connected external devices to detect the joints. And the working states of the motor 24, the camera 42, the negative pressure fan 63, the air pump 511, and the solenoid valve 547 are controlled through external devices. This is the existing well-known technology, and those skilled in the art should understand clearly and will not be elaborated here too much.

[0048] In addition, the motor 24, the camera 42, the negative pressure fan 63, the air pump 511, and the high-voltage power generator 523 all adopt products that have been publicly available on the market currently. When selecting models, on the premise that the specifications and usage scenarios are suitable, products that meet the requirements of this application should be selected as much as possible. The specific model specifications are not limited here.

[0049] A visual inspection method for VDA connectors, which is applied to the above-mentioned visual inspection device, includes the following steps: Step 1: Install the connector to be inspected on the fixing mechanism 3, and start the feeding mechanism 2 to drive the connector on the fixing mechanism 3 to move; Step 2: When the connector moves to the inspection mechanism 4, visually inspect the connector through the inspection mechanism 4; Step 3: When the connector is moving, start the air delivery part 51, remove the dust adhering to both ends of the connector through the dust removal part 52, and then collect the removed dust through the dust collection mechanism 6; Step 4: After the air delivery part 51 is started, the first control part 53 operates synchronously with the air delivery part 51 and protects the inspection mechanism 4; Step 5: When an unqualified connector is detected, the second control part 54 operates to drive the first blocking rod 111 to move upward. At this time, the unqualified connector is blocked by the first blocking rod 111 and falls, and is discharged along the first discharge chute 11, while the qualified connector is blocked by the second blocking rod 121 and falls, and is discharged along the second discharge chute 12.

[0050] The working principle of the present invention is as follows: Feeding and fixing: The motor 24 drives the feeding mechanism 2 (including the rotating rod 21, the transmission gear 22 and the toothed belt 23) to operate in an intermittent mode, ensuring that the connectors can be moved to the inspection position orderly. The fixing mechanism 3 firmly clamps the connector to be inspected through structures such as the clamping plate 35 and the tension spring 33.

[0051] Inspection process: When the connector is sent to the position of the inspection mechanism 4, the system will start the automatic inspection process. The camera 42 collects the image information of both ends of the connector and transmits this information to an external control device (such as a computer), and uses a pre-set standard template for comparative analysis to determine whether the connector is qualified.

[0052] Dust removal treatment: In order to ensure the inspection accuracy, before inspection, use the air delivery part 51 in the auxiliary mechanism 5 to blow air at the connector to remove dust, and collect the dust through the dust collection mechanism 6. This step helps to prevent dust from interfering with the quality of image acquisition.

[0053] Classification and discharge: According to the inspection results, the device controls the discharge path of the connector through the first blocking rod 111 or the second blocking rod 121, and discharges the qualified and unqualified products through different discharge chutes (the first discharge chute 11 or the second discharge chute 12) respectively.

[0054] The above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the principle of the present invention, several improvements and refinements can be made, and these improvements and refinements should also be regarded as the protection scope of the present invention. The structures, devices, and operation methods not specifically described and explained in the present invention are implemented according to the conventional means in the art without special instructions and limitations.

Claims

1. A visual inspection device, characterized in that: It includes a detection box (1), the upper end of the detection box (1) is provided with a detection cavity, and a feeding mechanism (2) is installed in the detection cavity; A fixing mechanism (3), the fixing mechanism (3) is installed on the feeding mechanism (2) in an array distribution for fixing the joint to be detected; A detection mechanism (4), the detection mechanism (4) is arranged in the detection cavity on the detection box (1) for detecting both ends of the joint; An auxiliary mechanism (5), the auxiliary mechanism (5) is arranged on the detection box (1) for assisting in detecting the joint; A dust collection mechanism (6), the dust collection mechanism (6) is arranged on the detection box (1) for collecting dust; Among them, the auxiliary mechanism (5) includes an air delivery part (51), the air delivery part (51) is arranged on the back of the detection box (1), a dust removal part (52) is arranged in the detection cavity on the detection box (1), and a first control part (53) and a second control part (54) are installed on the top surface of the detection box (1).

2. The visual inspection device according to claim 1, wherein: The detection box (1) is provided with a first blanking groove (11) and a second blanking groove (12), a first blocking rod (111) and a second blocking rod (121) are respectively arranged above the first blanking groove (11) and the second blanking groove (12). Among them, the first blocking rod (111) is slidably connected in the detection cavity on the detection box (1), and the second blocking rod (121) is fixedly connected in the detection cavity on the detection box (1).

3. A visual inspection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism (2) includes a rotating rod (21), both of the two rotating rods (21) are rotatably connected to the detection cavity on the detection box (1) through bearings, two transmission gears (22) are fixedly installed on the rotating rod (21), tooth belts (23) are installed on the corresponding transmission gears (22) on the two rotating rods (21), a motor (24) is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box (1), and the output shaft of the motor (24) is fixedly connected to the central rotating shaft of one of the rotating rods (21).

4. The vision inspection device according to claim 3, wherein: The fixing mechanism (3) includes a fixing seat (31), the fixing seat (31) is connected to the tooth belt (23), two sliding grooves are arranged on the fixing seat (31), movable blocks (32) are slidably connected in the sliding grooves, and a tension spring (33) is fixedly connected between the movable blocks (32) and the inner walls of the sliding grooves. A connecting rod (34) is fixedly connected to the fixing seat (31), a clamping plate (35) is fixedly connected to the connecting rod (34), a rotating seat (36) is also fixedly connected to a part of the connecting rod (34), a stress rod (37) is rotatably connected to the rotating seat (36), and a torsion spring (38) is fixedly connected between the rotating shaft of the stress rod (37) and the rotating seat (36).

5. A visual inspection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection mechanism (4) includes a protective housing (41) and a camera (42). Both the protective housing (41) and the camera (42) are fixedly installed in the detection chamber on the detection box (1), and the imaging end of the camera (42) extends into the protective housing (41). A baffle (43) is slidably inserted into the upper end of the protective housing (41). A compression spring (44) is fixedly connected to the baffle (43), and the compression spring (44) is fixedly connected to the detection box (1).

6. The vision detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air delivery part (51) includes an air pump (511). The air pump (511) is fixedly installed on the back of the detection box (1). The exhaust end of the air pump (511) is communicated with an exhaust pipe (512). One end of the exhaust pipe (512) is communicated with a first shunt pipe (513) and a second shunt pipe (514).

7. The vision inspection device according to claim 6, wherein: The dust removal part (52) includes a diversion pipe (521). Both of the two diversion pipes (521) are communicated with the first shunt pipe (513), and the other end of the diversion pipe (521) extends into the detection chamber on the detection box (1). The lower end of the diversion pipe (521) is communicated with a jet hood (522). A high-voltage power generator (523) is installed inside the jet hood (522). Discharge electrodes (524) are connected to the high-voltage power generator (523) in an array. Among them, a sleeve block (5211) is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe (513) by a support rod. A moving rod (5212) is slidably connected to the center of the sleeve block (5211). One end of the moving rod (5212) is fixedly connected to a blocking plate (5214), and the other end is fixedly connected to a circular plate (5215). A first spring (5216) is fixedly connected between the circular plate (5215) and the sleeve block (5211). A flow guide seat (5213) is also fixedly connected to the inner wall of the first shunt pipe (513). The dust collection mechanism (6) includes a dust collection groove (61). A dust collection groove (61) is formed on the detection box (1). A collection box (62) is inserted into the upper end of the dust collection groove (61). A negative pressure fan (63) is installed at the lower end of the dust collection groove (61).

8. A visual inspection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first control part (53) includes a first air cylinder (531). The first air cylinder (531) is fixedly connected to the top surface of the detection box (1). A first piston block (533) is slidably connected inside the first air cylinder (531). A first lifting rod (532) is piston-connected to the lower end of the first air cylinder (531), and one end of the first lifting rod (532) is fixedly connected to the first piston block (533). The upper end of the first air cylinder (531) is connected to an air delivery pipe (534), and the air delivery pipe (534) is communicated with the second shunt pipe (514).

9. A visual inspection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The second control unit (54) includes a second air cylinder (541). The second air cylinder (541) is communicated with the end of the second shunt pipe (514). A second lifting rod (542) is inserted into the upper end of the second air cylinder (541) in a piston manner. A second piston block (543) is fixedly connected to the lower end of the second lifting rod (542). A second spring (544) is fixedly connected between the second piston block (543) and the inner wall of the second air cylinder (541). An elevating plate (545) is fixedly connected to the upper end of the second lifting rod (542). A pull rod (546) is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the elevating plate (545), and the lower end of the pull rod (546) penetrates through the upper end of the detection box (1). An electromagnetic valve (547) is arranged on the second shunt pipe (514).

10. A visual inspection method for VDA connectors, characterized in that: Applied to a visual inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Install the joint to be detected on the fixing mechanism (3), and start the feeding mechanism (2) to drive the joint on the fixing mechanism (3) to move; Step 2: When the joint moves to the detection mechanism (4), visually inspect the joint through the detection mechanism (4); Step 3: When the joint is moving, start the air delivery unit (51), remove the dust adhered to both ends of the joint through the dust removal unit (52), and then collect the cleaned dust through the dust collection mechanism (6); Step 4: After the air delivery unit (51) is started, the first control unit (53) operates synchronously with the air delivery unit (51) and protects the detection mechanism (4); Step 5: When an unqualified joint is detected, the second control unit (54) operates to drive the first blocking rod (111) to move upward. At this time, the unqualified joint is blocked by the first blocking rod (111) and drops, and is discharged along the first discharge chute (11), while the qualified joint is blocked by the second blocking rod (121) and drops, and is discharged along the second discharge chute (12).

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