An end cap machining fixture, system, and method
By combining a first positioning part, a second positioning part, and a side spring unit in the end cap machining fixture, adaptive elastic clamping is achieved, which solves the problem of low accuracy caused by the tilt of the center axis and the feed direction in end cap machining, and improves machining accuracy and stability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511173210.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-21
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-18
- Estimated Expiration
- 2045-08-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing end cap machining fixtures suffer from low machining accuracy and high scrap rate because the positioning reference does not coincide with the actual axis of the end cap and the clamping force is unevenly distributed, causing slight deformation or positional shift of the end cap.
The first positioning part, the second positioning part, and two side spring units are arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the circumference of the base assembly to form a hollow space. With the side spring units elastically deforming under external force, adaptive elastic clamping is achieved to compensate for the size deviation and slight shaking of the end cap.
It improves the precision and stability of end cap processing, reduces the scrap rate, adapts to the processing needs of end caps of different specifications, and has a simple structure that is easy to operate.
Smart Images

Figure CN120696799B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of universal joint machining technology, and more specifically, to an end cap machining fixture, system, and method. Background Technology
[0002] Universal joints are critical power transmission components in automobiles, connecting parts located on different axes, such as the engine and drive wheels, or the steering gear and steering knuckle. They accommodate positional changes caused by suspension movement, steering, etc., stably transmitting torque and ensuring continuous power delivery, directly impacting vehicle power transmission efficiency and driving stability. For example, a cross-shaft universal joint includes a cross-shaft, rolling elements, seals, and end caps. The end cap is fitted onto one of the shafts of the cross-shaft, and the rolling elements are disposed in the space between the inner circumferential wall of the end cap and the outer circumferential wall of the shaft. The end cap can rotate relative to the shaft.
[0003] Therefore, the machining accuracy of the end cap affects the assembly accuracy and service life of the universal joint. End cap machining fixtures are commonly used equipment for machining end caps, and their effectiveness in positioning the end cap during machining affects its machining accuracy. Existing end cap machining fixtures mostly employ single rigid positioning or symmetrical clamping structures, such as three-jaw chucks or bolt clamping plates. When machining end caps, traditional fixtures are prone to causing slight deformation or positional shifts in the end cap due to misalignment between the positioning datum and the actual axis of the end cap, uneven distribution of clamping force, etc. This makes it difficult to stably maintain the parallelism between the end cap axis and the feed direction during machining, especially in batch processing, which can easily cause fluctuations in product accuracy, thereby increasing the scrap rate and subsequent finishing costs. Summary of the Invention
[0004] To address the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the tilt of the end cap axis and the machining feed direction during processing, this invention provides an end cap machining fixture, system, and method.
[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an end cap machining fixture, comprising:
[0006] Base assembly;
[0007] The positioning component includes a first positioning part and a second positioning part; the first positioning part and the second positioning part are respectively connected to the base assembly;
[0008] The side spring assembly includes a support unit and two side spring units; one end of the support unit is connected to the base assembly, and the other end extends toward one side of the base assembly; one end of the side spring unit is connected to the base assembly, and the other end abuts against the support unit; a first positioning part, a second positioning part, and the two side spring units are arranged sequentially at intervals along the circumference of the base assembly; the first positioning part, the second positioning part, and the two side spring units together form a hollow space;
[0009] The end cap processing fixture includes a clamping state; the clamping state includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit elastically deforms towards the support unit.
[0010] In some embodiments, the side spring unit includes a mounting part, a connecting part, and a spring arc part; the mounting part, the connecting part, and the spring arc part are connected in sequence; the mounting part is connected to the base assembly; the connecting part abuts against the support unit; the arc-shaped convex surface of the spring arc part arches towards the hollow space and forms a clearance space with the gap between it and the support unit.
[0011] In some embodiments, the side spring assembly further includes a clamping unit; the clamping unit is connected to the support unit; at least a portion of the clamping unit is disposed within the clearance space; the clamping unit and the side spring unit are correspondingly disposed;
[0012] The clamping state further includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit abuts against the spring arc portion, and the abutting unit elastically deforms toward the support unit.
[0013] In some embodiments, the clamping unit includes a second abutting portion and a third abutting portion; the second abutting portion passes through the support unit and abuts against the elastic arc portion; the third abutting portion passes through the support unit and abuts against the elastic arc portion; the second abutting portion and the third abutting portion are spaced apart.
[0014] In some embodiments, the second abutting portion and the third abutting portion are spaced apart along the axial direction of the base assembly; the second abutting portion and the third abutting portion are respectively located on both sides of the centerline of the spring arc portion.
[0015] In some embodiments, the base assembly includes a base plate and a first abutting portion; the mounting portion and the support unit are respectively connected to the base plate; the first abutting portion is connected to the base plate; the first abutting portion is at least partially located in the hollow space;
[0016] The clamping state further includes: under the action of external force, the first abutting part undergoes elastic deformation toward the direction of the base plate.
[0017] In some embodiments, during the clamping state, the elastic deformation stroke of the first abutment portion is less than the elastic deformation stroke of the side spring unit.
[0018] In some embodiments, the resultant direction of the reaction force when the side spring unit is subjected to force is spaced apart from the axis of the base assembly; the resultant direction of the reaction force when the side spring unit is subjected to force deviates towards the direction of another side spring unit.
[0019] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an end cap processing system, the end cap processing system including any of the end cap processing fixtures described in the first aspect; the end cap processing system further includes an end cap, a conveying assembly, and a processing assembly;
[0020] The end cap includes an end ring and an end plate; the end plate is connected to one end of the end ring.
[0021] The conveying assembly includes a conveyor belt and a blocking part; the blocking part is connected to the output end of the conveyor belt.
[0022] The processing assembly includes a clamping part, a processing part, and a moving part; the end cap processing fixture is driven to be connected to the moving part.
[0023] The conveying assembly includes a conveying state; in the conveying state, the conveyor belt conveys the end cap toward the blocking part; the blocking part blocks the movement of the end cap;
[0024] The clamping state further includes: the moving part driving the end cap processing fixture to move toward the end cap; the end cap processing fixture clamping the end cap; the end cap processing fixture clamping the end cap moving toward the clamping part; the clamping part abutting against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap, thereby facilitating the processing part to process the end cap.
[0025] Thirdly, the present invention provides an end cap processing method, wherein the end cap processing method is applied to the end cap processing system of the second aspect, and the end cap processing method includes:
[0026] Triggered by a processing command, the conveyor belt transports the end cap to the blocking part;
[0027] The moving part drives the end cap processing fixture to clamp the end cap near the blocking part; wherein, two side spring units respectively abut against the outer peripheral wall of the end cap; the two side spring units cooperate with the first positioning part and the second positioning part to clamp the outer peripheral wall of the end cap;
[0028] The moving part moves the end cap to the periphery of the clamping part, and the clamping part clamps the end cap; wherein the clamping part abuts against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap;
[0029] Positioning is completed based on the end cap, the end cap processing fixture disengages from the end cap, and the processing unit processes the end cap.
[0030] To address the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the tilt of the end cap axis and the machining feed direction during processing, this invention has the following advantages:
[0031] By setting up a first positioning part, a second positioning part, and two side spring units distributed sequentially and spaced apart along the circumference of the base assembly to form a hollow space, the end cap can be positioned and clamped from multiple circumferential points. Combined with the design of the side spring units elastically deforming towards the support unit under external force, adaptive elastic clamping of the end cap can be achieved. This ensures clamping stability and compensates for dimensional deviations of the end cap or slight shaking during processing through the elastic deformation of the side spring units. It effectively avoids the problem of tilting of the end cap's bottom or peripheral wall relative to the machining feed axis caused by positioning reference deviations or uneven force distribution in traditional rigid fixtures, thereby improving the machining accuracy of the end cap. Furthermore, the end cap machining fixture has a simple structure, is easy to operate, and can better adapt to the machining needs of end caps of different specifications. Attached Figure Description
[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an end cap processing fixture according to one embodiment;
[0033] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the mid-end cover machining fixture that conceals one of the side spring units;
[0034] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Structural diagram of the base assembly, support unit, and positioning assembly;
[0035] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the mid-side projectile unit;
[0036] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a ball screw;
[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an end cap processing system according to one embodiment;
[0038] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Sectional view of the middle end cap;
[0039] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an embodiment of an end cap processing method.
[0040] Reference numerals: 10 Base assembly; 11 Base plate; 12 Bottom mounting groove; 13 First bottom hole; 14 Second bottom hole; 15 First abutment part; 20 Side spring assembly; 21 Support unit; 211 Side spring wall; 212 Side mounting groove; 213 Side mounting hole; 22 Side spring unit; 221 Mounting part; 222 Connecting part; 223 Spring arc part; 23 Clamping unit; 231 Second abutment part; 232 Third abutment part; 30 Positioning assembly; 31 First positioning part; 32 Second positioning part; 40 End cap; 41 End ring; 42 End plate; 50 Conveying assembly; 51 Conveyor belt; 52 Blocking part; 60 Processing assembly; 61 Clamping part; 62 Processing part; 63 Moving part; 70 Ball screw. Detailed Implementation
[0041] The present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are discussed only to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and thus implement the present disclosure, and are not intended to imply any limitation on the scope of the disclosure.
[0042] As used herein, the term "comprising" and its variations are to be interpreted as open-ended terms meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" is to be interpreted as "at least partially based on". The terms "one embodiment" and "an embodiment" are to be interpreted as "at least one embodiment". The term "another embodiment" is to be interpreted as "at least one other embodiment". The terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "vertical", "horizontal", "lateral", "longitudinal", etc., indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation or being constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the above terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientations or positional relationships; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. In addition, the terms "installed", "set up", "equipped with", "connected", and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, elements, or components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are mainly used to distinguish different devices, elements, or components (the specific types and structures may be the same or different), and are not used to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, elements, or components. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0043] Example 1:
[0044] Universal joints are critical power transmission components in automobiles, connecting components located on different axes, such as the engine and drive wheels, or the steering gear and steering knuckle. They directly impact the vehicle's power transmission efficiency and driving stability. The end cap 40 is a key component used in the universal joint, cooperating with it in both structural fixation and functional coordination. The end cap 40 consists of a cap-like structure and a hollow cylinder, with an internal hollow space. The machine tool's inner support structure extends into the end cap 40, supporting and fixing it against the inner wall, thus facilitating the machining of the end cap 40's outer surface. The end cap machining fixture is a crucial component connecting the workpiece and the machine tool; its design rationality affects the machining quality, efficiency, and production safety of the end cap 40. When clamping the end cap 40 onto the machine tool, the axis of the end cap 40 and the inner support structure on the machine tool may be relatively tilted. To address the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the tilt of the end cap 40's axis and the machining feed direction during machining, this embodiment discloses an end cap machining fixture.
[0045] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, the end cap processing fixture consists of a base assembly 10, a side spring assembly 20, and a positioning assembly 30. The cross-sectional area and thickness of the base assembly 10 can be set according to specific processing requirements, thus meeting the requirements of the base assembly 10 to support the side spring assembly 20 and the positioning assembly 30.
[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the positioning assembly 30 includes a first positioning part 31 and a second positioning part 32. The first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32 are respectively connected to the base assembly 10. The shape, width, height, and thickness of the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32 can be set according to the radial dimension and height of the end cap 40 to be processed, so that the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32 are adapted to the end cap 40 to be processed. When the end cap processing fixture clamps the end cap 40, the end cap 40 is positioned against the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32, thus achieving the positioning of the end cap 40.
[0047] The side spring assembly 20 includes a support unit 21 and two side spring units 22. One end of the support unit 21 is connected to the base assembly 10, and the other end extends toward one side of the base assembly 10.
[0048] One end of the side spring unit 22 is connected to the base assembly 10, and the other end abuts against the support unit 21. When the end cap processing fixture clamps the end cap 40, the side spring unit 22 abuts against the end cap 40 to provide elastic support for the end cap 40.
[0049] The first positioning part 31, the second positioning part 32, and the two side spring units 22 are arranged sequentially and at intervals along the circumference of the base assembly 10. The first positioning part 31, the second positioning part 32, and the two side spring units 22 together form a hollow space. By placing the end cap 40 in this hollow space, the first positioning part 31, the second positioning part 32, and the two side spring units 22 can limit the radial displacement of the end cap 40.
[0050] The end cap machining fixture includes a clamping state; the clamping state includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit 22 elastically deforms towards the support unit 21. At this time, the end cap 40 is located in the hollow space, and the two side spring units 22 abut against the side wall of the end cap 40; under the pushing action of the side spring units 22, the side wall of the end cap 40 away from the side spring units 22 fits against the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32, thereby ensuring that the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the axis of the end cap machining fixture in the clamping state. In this way, when the end cap 40 is clamped onto the inner support structure by the end cap machining fixture, since the axis of the end cap machining fixture is parallel or perpendicular to the machining feed direction, the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the inclination of the axis of the end cap 40 and the machining feed direction can be solved.
[0051] Preferably, the connection between one end of the support unit 21 and the base assembly 10 can be integrally formed, thus creating a stable connection. Optionally, the length of the other end of the side spring unit extending toward the base assembly can be set according to the height of the end cap 40.
[0052] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, the side spring unit 22 includes a mounting part 221, a connecting part 222, and a spring arc part 223. The mounting part 221, the connecting part 222, and the spring arc part 223 are connected in sequence.
[0053] The mounting part 221 is connected to the base assembly 10. This connection can be set as a fixed connection, so that when the elastic part 223 undergoes elastic deformation under external force, the mounting part 221 remains relatively stationary with respect to the base assembly 10. This allows the side elastic unit 22 to be securely mounted on the base assembly 10. The connecting part 222 abuts against the support unit 21. The arc-shaped convex surface of the elastic part 223 arches towards the hollow space, forming a clearance space with the gap between it and the support unit 21. Because the stress distribution is more gradual when the arc is bent, when the elastic part 223 is compressed and deformed, the arc-shaped convex surface can output a more uniform thrust to the end cap 40, avoiding the end cap 40 from tilting due to excessive local stress. In conjunction with the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32, this ensures that the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the axis of the clamp.
[0054] In other embodiments, the support unit 21 includes a side spring wall 211 and two side mounting grooves 212. Each side mounting groove 212 corresponds to one side spring unit 22. The side mounting groove 212 is recessed into the side spring wall 211 and matches the shape of the corresponding side spring unit 22. At least a portion of the spring arc portion 223 and the connecting portion 222 are located within the side mounting groove 212, so that the spring arc portion 223 can only undergo elastic deformation in the direction of its corresponding side mounting groove 212 after being subjected to external force. The arc-shaped convex surface of the spring arc portion 223 protrudes from the side mounting groove 212, so that the end cap 40 can abut against the end cap 40 during clamping.
[0055] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the side spring assembly 20 also includes a clamping unit 23, which is connected to the support unit 21. At least a portion of the clamping unit 23 is disposed within the clearance space. The clamping unit 23 is disposed correspondingly to the side spring unit 22, so that each side spring unit 22 has a corresponding clamping unit 23.
[0056] The clamping state also includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit 22 abuts against the pressing unit 23 and the spring arc part 223, and the pressing unit 23 elastically deforms toward the support unit 21.
[0057] The clamping unit 23 is connected to the support unit 21, which fixes the position of the clamping unit 23 and makes its deformation direction more stable. This can prevent the spring arc part 223 from tilting due to excessive force on one side, thus avoiding the problem that the axis of the end cover 40 is not parallel to the axis of the end cover processing fixture caused by the tilting of the spring arc part 223.
[0058] If the elastic arc part 223 is subjected to a large external force, it may become fatigued after long-term use and lose its elasticity.
[0059] By positioning the clamping unit 23 near the end of the spring-loaded portion 223, the end cap 40 continuously applies pressure to the spring-loaded portion 223 as it enters the hollow space. After the spring-loaded portion 223 undergoes a certain elastic deformation towards the support unit 21 due to the pressure, the clamping unit 23 comes into contact with it and both undergo elastic deformation towards the support unit 21. If the pressure applied by the end cap 40 is large, the clamping unit 23 and the spring-loaded portion 223 will share the pressure through elastic deformation, rather than the spring-loaded portion bearing the pressure alone. Compared to only providing the side spring unit 22, this clamping unit 23 reduces the deformation of the spring-loaded portion 223, allowing the side spring unit 22 to withstand greater pressure during long-term use, reducing fatigue damage, and thus extending its service life.
[0060] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the clamping unit 23 includes a second abutting part 231 and a third abutting part 232. The second abutting part 231 passes through the support unit 21 and abuts against the elastic arc part 223, and the third abutting part 232 passes through the support unit 21 and abuts against the elastic arc part 223. The second abutting part 231 and the third abutting part 232 are spaced apart.
[0061] Both abutting parts pass through the support unit 21 and abut against the spring arc part 223, forming two abutting points. This avoids local stress concentration caused by single-point abutting. Compared with only one abutting part, when the end cap processing fixture clamps the end cap 40, the clamping force of the side spring unit 22 on the end cap 40 is more evenly distributed, reducing the slight displacement of the end cap 40 caused by uneven force and improving the positional stability during processing.
[0062] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the second abutment portion 231 and the third abutment portion 232 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the base assembly 10, and are respectively located on both sides of the centerline of the elastic arc portion 223. When the elastic arc portion 223 undergoes elastic deformation under external force, the stress distribution in different areas of the elastic arc portion 223 varies. For example, the area near the connecting portion 222 is more rigid, while the area closer to the center of the protrusion undergoes more significant elastic deformation. This arrangement allows both the upper and lower halves of the elastic arc portion 223 to abut against the abutment unit 23, thereby applying reaction forces to the upper and lower halves of the elastic arc portion 223 respectively. This avoids the problem of plastic deformation or fracture of the elastic arc portion 223 due to excessive local stress when abutting is only provided in a certain area, making the stress distribution of the elastic arc portion 223 more gradual and the deformation more uniform.
[0063] The uniformly distributed spring arc portion 223 applies a more uniform thrust to the outer peripheral wall of the end cover 40, avoiding the situation where the end cover 40 is subjected to excessive force on one side due to the tilt of the spring arc portion 223 and deviates from the positioning portion. This allows the end cover 40 to fit tightly with the first positioning portion 31 and the second positioning portion 32, further improving the parallelism between the axis of the end cover 40 and the axis of the end cover machining fixture.
[0064] In other embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the support unit 21 also includes side mounting holes 213, with two side mounting holes 213 corresponding to each side mounting groove 212. The side mounting holes 213 can be configured as threaded holes, and the second abutment portion 231 and the third abutment portion 232 can both be configured as ball screws 70 for threaded connection with the side mounting holes 213. Figure 5As shown, the lower end of the ball at the top of the ball screw 70 is connected to one end of the spring, and the other end of the spring is connected to the bottom of the upper recessed area of the ball screw 70. When subjected to external force, the ball can move downward along the upper recessed area, and when the external force is unloaded, it will be bounced up by the spring and reset. This enables the clamping unit 23 to elastically deform towards the support unit 21 in the clamping state.
[0065] In addition, the installation depth of the ball screw 70 on the side spring wall 211 can be set according to the radial dimension of the end cap 40. This allows the same end cap machining fixture to be adapted to end caps 40 with different radial dimensions, improving the versatility of the end cap machining fixture and reducing costs.
[0066] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the base assembly 10 includes a base plate 11 and a first abutment portion 15. The mounting portion 221 and the support unit 21 are respectively connected to the base plate 11, and the first abutment portion 15 is connected to the base plate 11. The first abutment portion 15 is at least partially located in the hollow space. The clamping state also includes: under the action of external force, the first abutment portion 15 elastically deforms towards the base plate 11.
[0067] During the process of the end cap 40 entering the hollow space, because the first abutment part 15 is connected to the base plate 11, the end cap 40 will swing after the outer wall of the end cap 40 is subjected to the thrust of the first abutment part 15 and the side spring unit 22, as well as the positioning action of the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32. This forces the axis of the end cap 40 to approach the direction parallel to the axis of the end cap machining fixture. This improves the parallelism between the axis of the end cap 40 and the axis of the end cap machining fixture, solving the problem of low machining accuracy.
[0068] In other embodiments, when clamped, at least a portion of the first abutment portion 15 is located within the hollow space. After the end cap 40 is fully clamped within the hollow space of the end cap processing fixture, the bottom of the end cap 40 abuts against the first abutment portion 15, while a gap exists between the area of the bottom of the end cap 40 that does not abut and the base plate 11. During the process of the end cap 40 entering the hollow space, because of the gap between the area of the bottom of the end cap 40 that does not abut and the base plate 11, the end cap 40 will swing after being pushed by the first abutment portion 15 and the side spring unit 22, and positioned by the first positioning portion 31 and the second positioning portion 32. This causes the axis of the end cap 40 to have an adaptive orientation within the hollow space, forcing it to approach a direction parallel to the axis of the end cap processing fixture. This further improves the parallelism between the axis of the end cap 40 and the axis of the end cap processing fixture, solving the problem of low processing accuracy.
[0069] In other embodiments, notches can be provided on the base plate 11 according to the radial dimensions and height of the end cap 40. This can save materials for manufacturing end cap processing fixtures and reduce costs while meeting the strength requirements of the side spring assembly 20 and the positioning assembly 30.
[0070] In other embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the mounting part 221 is connected to the base plate 11. Two bottom mounting grooves 12 can be provided on the base plate 11, and a second bottom hole 14 is provided on the bottom wall of each bottom mounting groove 12. The bottom mounting grooves 12 are recessed into the base plate 11. The shape of the bottom mounting grooves 12 is matched with the mounting part 221, which restricts the mounting part 221 within the bottom mounting grooves 12, so that the mounting part 221 will not rotate relative to the base plate 11, and this facilitates the positioning of the mounting part 221 when installing the side spring unit 22.
[0071] The mounting part 221 can be threaded through the mounting part 221 and connected to the second bottom hole 14, thus fixing the mounting part 221 to the base assembly 10 and forming a stable connection. This ensures that the side spring unit 22 will not shift under stress deformation and long-term use, avoiding clamping and positioning deviations caused by its own positional displacement. Furthermore, it makes the side spring unit 22 easy to disassemble, facilitating subsequent replacement with new side spring units 22 or side spring units 22 of different specifications.
[0072] In other embodiments, the first abutment 15 can be configured as a ball screw 70, and a first bottom hole 13 can be provided on the base plate 11 near the hollow space, with the ball screw 70 disposed within the first bottom hole 13. The installation depth of the first abutment 15 within the first bottom hole 13 can be set according to the height of the end cap 40, and the installation depth of the second abutment 231 and the third abutment 232 within the side mounting hole 213 can be set according to the radial dimension of the end cap 40. This ensures the parallelism between the axis of the end cap 40 and the axis of the end cap processing fixture, while allowing the end cap processing fixture to accommodate more end caps 40 of different sizes. Furthermore, the ball screw 70 is easy to disassemble and replace, thereby extending the service life of the end cap processing fixture and reducing costs while ensuring its normal use.
[0073] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, in the clamping state, the elastic deformation stroke of the first abutment portion 15 is less than that of the side spring unit 22. This results in the elastic force of the first abutment portion 15 being smaller than that of the side spring unit 22, thus the adjustment of the axis of the end cap 40 is mainly accomplished by the side spring unit 22 and the positioning component 30, while the adjustment effect of the first abutment portion 15 is relatively small.
[0074] Furthermore, the resultant direction of the reaction force when the side spring unit 22 is subjected to force is spaced apart from the axis of the base assembly 10, and the resultant direction of the reaction force when the side spring unit 22 is subjected to force deviates towards the direction closer to another side spring unit 22.
[0075] When the end cap enters the hollow space for clamping, the end cap 40 abuts against the two side spring units 22. When the tilt angle of the end cap 40 is large, the resultant force direction of the reaction force of the side spring unit 22 may deviate towards the positioning component 30 under the pressure of the end cap 40. This causes the resultant force direction of the reaction force of the two side spring units 22 to deviate from the center position of the positioning component 30, so that after clamping, the side wall of the end cap 40 is not completely attached to the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32.
[0076] By tilting the side spring unit 22, the resultant force of the reaction force when the side spring unit 22 is subjected to force deviates towards the direction closer to the other side spring unit 22. This can limit the offset angle of the resultant force of the reaction force when the side spring unit 22 is subjected to force, thereby preventing the side wall of the end cover 40 from not being completely fitted with the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32 after clamping. This ensures that the end cover 40 is parallel to the axis of the end cover processing fixture when it is clamped.
[0077] Example 2:
[0078] This embodiment discloses an end cap processing system. In this embodiment, the end cap processing system includes any of the end cap processing fixtures described in Embodiment 1, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the end cap processing system also includes an end cap 40, a conveying assembly 50, and a processing assembly 60. The end cap 40 can be transported to the processing assembly 60 via the conveying assembly 50 for processing.
[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, the end cap 40 includes an end ring 41 and an end plate 42, with the end plate 42 connected to one end of the end ring 41. The shape and size of the end ring 41, as well as the thickness and diameter of the end plate 42, can be set according to the shape and size of the port it is used with, thus fulfilling the sealing or supporting functions of the end cap 40.
[0080] like Figure 6 As shown, the conveying assembly 50 includes a conveyor belt 51 and a blocking part 52, with the blocking part 52 connected to the output end of the conveyor belt 51. The conveying assembly 50 includes a conveying state. In the conveying state, the conveyor belt 51 conveys the end cap 40 towards the blocking part 52. When the end cap 40 moves to the rightmost end of the conveyor belt 51, the blocking part 52 blocks the end cap 40 from moving, completing the positioning of the end cap 40 on the conveyor belt 51. This provides a basic positioning for subsequent clamping, allowing the end cap 40 to smoothly enter the hollow space of the end cap processing fixture.
[0081] like Figure 6 As shown, the processing assembly 60 includes a clamping part 61, a processing part 62, and a moving part 63. The end cap processing fixture is driven to the moving part 63.
[0082] The clamping state also includes: the moving part 63 drives the end cap processing fixture to move toward the end cap 40. The end cap processing fixture clamps the end cap 40. The end cap processing fixture moves the clamped end cap 40 toward the clamping part 61. The clamping part 61 abuts against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap 40, thereby facilitating the processing part 62 to process the end cap 40.
[0083] The end cap machining fixture is designed so that after the end cap 40 is clamped by the moving part 63, the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the axis of the end cap machining fixture. After the end cap machining fixture clamps the end cap 40 and moves towards the clamping part 61, the clamping part 61 of the machining component 60 further abuts against and reinforces the inner peripheral wall of the end cap 40. This makes the axis of the end cap 40 parallel to the axis of the clamping part 61, thereby solving the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the tilt of the axis of the end cap 40 and the machining feed direction during machining.
[0084] With the above settings, the end cap processing system not only ensures the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of the outer surface of the end cap 40, but also improves the efficiency of mass production through the orderly collaboration of each component, making it suitable for large-scale processing scenarios of end caps 40 of different specifications.
[0085] Example 3:
[0086] This embodiment discloses an end cap processing method. In this embodiment, the end cap processing method is applied to an end cap processing system described in the above embodiment.
[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, the end cap processing method includes steps S10-S40, which are explained in detail below:
[0088] Step S10: Based on the processing command trigger, the conveyor belt 51 transports the end cap 40 to the blocking part 52. After receiving the processing command, the conveyor belt 51 starts and transports the end cap 40 to the right to the blocking part 52 to wait for processing.
[0089] Step S20: The moving part 63 drives the end cap processing fixture to clamp the end cap 40 adjacent to the blocking part 52. Two side spring units 22 abut against the outer peripheral wall of the end cap 40, and the two side spring units 22, in conjunction with the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32, clamp the outer peripheral wall of the end cap 40. When the end cap 40 begins to enter the hollow space, the side spring units 22 are successively subjected to pressure from the end plate 42 and the end ring 41 and spring back, cooperating with the positioning function of the first positioning part 31 and the second positioning part 32 to adjust the axis of the end cap 40 to be parallel to the axis of the end cap processing fixture.
[0090] Step S30: The moving part 63 moves the end cap 40 to the periphery of the clamping part 61, and the clamping part 61 clamps the end cap 40. After the clamping part 61 enters the interior of the end cap 40, it expands radially toward the inner peripheral wall of the end cap 40, and forms an inward expansion clamping after abutting against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap 40. This completes the final positioning of the end cap 40 on the clamping part 61, so that the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the axis of the clamping part 61.
[0091] Step S40: Based on the positioning of the end cap 40, the end cap machining fixture disengages from the end cap 40, and the machining unit 62 performs machining on the end cap 40. After the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the axis of the clamping unit 61, when the machining unit 62 processes the outer wall of the end plate 42, the axis of the end cap 40 is perpendicular to the machining feed direction; when the machining unit 62 processes the outer peripheral wall of the end ring 41, the axis of the end cap 40 is parallel to the machining feed direction. This solves the problem of low machining accuracy caused by the tilt of the axis of the end cap 40 and the machining feed direction during machining.
[0092] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above embodiments are specific examples of implementing this disclosure, and in practical applications, various changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
Claims
1. A fixture for machining end caps, characterized in that, The end cap machining fixture includes: Base assembly; The positioning component includes a first positioning part and a second positioning part; the first positioning part and the second positioning part are respectively connected to the base assembly; The side spring assembly includes a support unit and two side spring units; one end of the support unit is connected to the base assembly, and the other end extends toward one side of the base assembly; one end of the side spring unit is connected to the base assembly, and the other end abuts against the support unit; a first positioning part, a second positioning part, and the two side spring units are arranged sequentially at intervals along the circumference of the base assembly; the first positioning part, the second positioning part, and the two side spring units together form a hollow space; The side spring unit includes a mounting part, a connecting part, and a spring arc part; the mounting part, the connecting part, and the spring arc part are connected in sequence; the mounting part is connected to the base assembly; the connecting part abuts against the support unit; the arc-shaped convex surface of the spring arc part arches towards the hollow space and forms a clearance space with the gap between it and the support unit; The end cap processing fixture includes a clamping state; the clamping state includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit elastically deforms towards the support unit.
2. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side spring assembly further includes a clamping unit; the clamping unit is connected to the support unit; at least a portion of the clamping unit is disposed within the clearance space; the clamping unit and the side spring unit are correspondingly disposed; The clamping state further includes: under the action of external force, the side spring unit abuts against the spring arc portion, and the abutting unit elastically deforms toward the support unit.
3. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 2, characterized in that, The clamping unit includes a second abutting part and a third abutting part; the second abutting part passes through the support unit and abuts against the elastic arc part; the third abutting part passes through the support unit and abuts against the elastic arc part; the second abutting part and the third abutting part are spaced apart.
4. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second abutting portion and the third abutting portion are spaced apart along the axial direction of the base assembly; the second abutting portion and the third abutting portion are respectively located on both sides of the centerline of the spring arc portion.
5. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base assembly includes a base plate and a first abutting part; the mounting part and the supporting unit are respectively connected to the base plate; the first abutting part is connected to the base plate; The first contact portion is at least partially located in the hollow space; The clamping state further includes: under the action of external force, the first abutting part undergoes elastic deformation toward the direction of the base plate.
6. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the clamping state, the elastic deformation stroke of the first abutment part is less than the elastic deformation stroke of the side spring unit.
7. The end cap processing fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The resultant force of the reaction force when the side spring unit is subjected to force is spaced apart from the axis of the base assembly; the resultant force of the reaction force when the side spring unit is subjected to force deviates towards the direction of the other side spring unit.
8. An end cap processing system, characterized in that, The end cap processing system includes: an end cap processing fixture as described in any one of claims 1 to 7; the end cap processing system further includes an end cap, a conveying assembly, and a processing assembly; The end cap includes an end ring and an end plate; the end plate is connected to one end of the end ring. The conveying assembly includes a conveyor belt and a blocking part; the blocking part is connected to the output end of the conveyor belt. The processing assembly includes a clamping part, a processing part, and a moving part; the end cap processing fixture is driven to be connected to the moving part. The conveying assembly includes a conveying state; in the conveying state, the conveyor belt conveys the end cap toward the blocking part; the blocking part blocks the movement of the end cap; The clamping state further includes: the moving part driving the end cap processing fixture to move toward the end cap; the end cap processing fixture clamping the end cap; the end cap processing fixture clamping the end cap moving toward the clamping part; the clamping part abutting against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap, thereby facilitating the processing part to process the end cap.
9. A method for processing an end cap, characterized in that, The end cap processing method is applied to the end cap processing system of claim 8, and the end cap processing method includes: Triggered by a processing command, the conveyor belt transports the end cap to the blocking part; The moving part drives the end cap processing fixture to clamp the end cap near the blocking part; wherein, two side spring units respectively abut against the outer peripheral wall of the end cap; the two side spring units cooperate with the first positioning part and the second positioning part to clamp the outer peripheral wall of the end cap; The moving part moves the end cap to the periphery of the clamping part, and the clamping part clamps the end cap; wherein the clamping part abuts against the inner peripheral wall of the end cap; Positioning is completed based on the end cap, the end cap processing fixture disengages from the end cap, and the processing unit processes the end cap.
Citation Information
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