Automated production line and production method for hp-rtm molded battery case

Abstract

The application relates to an HP-RTM forming battery shell automatic production line and a production method, which comprises a forming press, first, second and third work station areas are sequentially arranged from right to left at the front end of the forming press, a first mechanical arm, a first material area and a first jig are arranged in the first work station area, a second jig and a second material area are arranged in the second work station area, a second mechanical arm and a third jig are arranged in the third work station area, and the third jig is located at the front end of the second mechanical arm. The first jig is integrated with a first clamping mechanism and a second clamping mechanism, the second jig is integrated with a pressing mechanism and a third clamping mechanism, and the third jig is integrated with a first blowing assembly, a second blowing assembly, a third blowing assembly and a fourth clamping mechanism, so that the structure is matched ingeniously, the equipment has high integration degree, and the space utilization rate is high. The HP-RTM forming battery shell automatic production line can realize automatic transfer of preformed materials and foam skeletons, feeding, forming and discharging, and has high automation degree.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery casing molding equipment technology, and more particularly to an automated production line and method for HP-RTM molded battery casings. Background Technology

[0002] HP-RTM is an abbreviation for High Pressure Resin Transfer Molding, which is a molding process that uses high pressure to mix resin and inject it into a vacuum-sealed mold pre-laid with fiber reinforcement and inserts. The resin then flows through the mold, impregnates, cures, and is demolded to obtain composite material products.

[0003] This process enables low-cost, short-cycle, high-volume, and high-quality production. Compared to the traditional RTM injection pressure of 0.6–1.5 MPa (6–15 bar), HP-RTM typically injects resin at pressures of 3.0–8.0 MPa (30–80 bar) or even higher. This allows the resin to fill the mold cavity in a shorter time, completing the impregnation process of the preformed fiber and promoting the expulsion of air bubbles from the resin, thus improving the surface molding quality of the product. The process can be shortened to less than 5 minutes.

[0004] The traditional HP-RTM molded battery casing production process includes the following steps:

[0005] (1) The fiber (glass fiber or carbon fiber) preforms are stacked together in multiple layers and placed on the preform material rack. Since the product draft angle is small, only 1.5°, a foam skeleton is placed between every two preforms. The preform material rack is transported to the front of the HP-RTM molding press by a manual forklift.

[0006] (2) Before loading the material, the workers use an air gun to clean the debris on the surface of the upper and lower molds, then clean the fiber fluff on the surface of the preform, and blow away the fiber filaments or strips on the surface of the preform. After each certain number of battery cases are formed, the upper and lower mold surfaces are sprayed with a release agent. Two workers use their hands to grab the four corners of the flange edge of the fiber preform and lift it out, then walk together to the left and right sides of the lower mold.

[0007] (3) Two workers work together to flip the fiber preform 180° in the air so that the opening of the fiber preform faces upward. The fiber preform is slowly placed into the lower mold. The workers press the four corners, the flange edges and the large surface of the fiber preform by hand so that the fiber preform fits the lower mold as closely as possible.

[0008] (4) After the molding press closes the mold, a vacuum is drawn, and then mixed resin is injected into the mold under high pressure. The pressure inside the mold can reach 5~12MPa, which drives the air bubbles to be discharged and compresses the pores.

[0009] (5) The high-activity mixed resin formula cures rapidly under mold heating conditions, with a curing time of 180~240s (mold closing and holding pressure time). Combined with internal and external release agent technology, the product can be quickly demolded, and the surface finish of the product can reach Grade A. (The internal release agent is mixed with the two-component AB material in the mixing head of the injection machine and then injected under high pressure; the external release agent is a coating applied to the mold surface. It is a durable release agent, which means that one coating can be used for multiple moldings. Generally, the release agent is sprayed once every 10~20 molds).

[0010] (7) The molding press opens the mold and returns to its original position, and locks the slider to prevent the slider from falling.

[0011] (8) Two workers enter the molding press, slowly remove the molded body from the lower mold, completely detach it from the mold, rotate it 180° on the outside of the mold so that its opening faces down, and then place the molded body on the cooling and shaping fixture.

[0012] (9) After ensuring that the molded body is in contact with the cooling and shaping fixture, two workers press the working button of the cooling and shaping fixture at the same time. The workpiece is clamped on the outside of the shaping fixture, and the internal fan blows air to cool the molded body. After the temperature sensor 854 on the cooling fixture senses that the set temperature has been reached, the clamping mechanism releases the molded body, and the indicator light on the cooling fixture shows green, indicating to the workers that the cooling and shaping has been completed.

[0013] (10) Two workers smoothly remove the molded body from the cooling and shaping fixture and place it on the molded body rack. The workers then place the foam skeleton on the molded body that has just been completed.

[0014] Two workers repeat the above actions, and the cycle time for one product is about 5 to 8 minutes. The cycle time varies depending on the product.

[0015] Traditional production processes require two workers, demanding high levels of teamwork and intensity. Controlling production pace and product quality is difficult, resulting in low efficiency. Furthermore, the working environment is harsh, with fiber lint and dust posing significant health risks.

[0016] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0017] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention discloses an automated production line and method for HP-RTM molded battery casings, which solves the problems of low production efficiency, unstable product qualification rate, and the impact of the production environment on human health associated with manual production lines.

[0018] The technical solution adopted in this invention is as follows:

[0019] The HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line includes: a molding press, comprising a frame, a lower mold disposed at the lower end of the frame, and an upper mold slidably disposed above the lower mold within the frame; a first workstation area and a second workstation area are sequentially arranged from right to left at the front end of the molding press; a first robotic arm, a first material area, and a first fixture are disposed in the first workstation area, the first material area and the first fixture being located at the front end of the first robotic arm; a first quick-change male tray is disposed at the end of the first robotic arm; several pre-molded materials are stacked in the first material area, and a foam skeleton is stacked between adjacent pre-molded materials; the first fixture includes a first frame, a first quick-change female tray is disposed on the side of the first frame, and a second clamp is disposed at the upper end of the first frame. The mechanism includes a second clamping mechanism configured to clamp a foam skeleton, a first clamping mechanism configured to clamp a preform material at the lower end of the first frame, a second fixture and a second material area configured within the second workstation area, the second material area being located at the front end of the second fixture, a plurality of molded parts stacked in the second material area, and a foam skeleton stacked between adjacent molded parts; the second fixture includes a second frame, a second quick-change female plate configured at the front end of the second frame, a pressing mechanism and a third clamping mechanism configured at the upper end of the second frame, the third clamping mechanism being circumferentially spaced around the pressing mechanism, the pressing mechanism being configured to press the preform material down to make it adhere tightly to the inner wall of the lower mold, and the third clamping mechanism being configured to fix the preform material onto the pressing mechanism.

[0020] A further technical solution is that the preform material includes a shell, which is a rectangular hollow structure with an opening at the lower end and a reinforcing edge around the lower outer side of the shell; the foam skeleton is a hollow frame; and the molded part has the same shape as the preform material.

[0021] A further technical solution is as follows: the first clamping mechanism includes finger cylinders circumferentially spaced at the lower end of the first frame and several needle-type suction cups disposed at the lower end of the first frame; the second clamping mechanism has two sets, spaced apart along the length of the first frame, and includes two slide rails parallel to the first frame; the clamping plate has two clamping plates, the lower ends of which are simultaneously engaged with the two slide rails and can slide along the two slide rails, and two telescopic cylinders are connected in parallel between the two clamping plates; the pressing mechanism includes a first contouring fixture and a first lifting cylinder. The first lifting cylinders are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper width direction of the second frame; the first contouring fixture is arranged on the output end of the two first lifting cylinders, and its shape matches the interior of the preform; a fixed edge is arranged around the lower end of the first contouring fixture; the third clamping mechanism includes a rotary clamping cylinder, and there are several rotary clamping cylinders, which are arranged circumferentially around the first contouring fixture at the upper end of the second frame. The fixed end of the rotary clamping cylinder rotates to the top of the fixed edge and retracts to fix the reinforcing edge of the preform to the fixed edge.

[0022] A further technical solution is that the HP-RTM automated production line for molding battery casings further includes a third workstation area, which is located at the front end of the molding press and to the left of the second workstation area; a second robotic arm and a third fixture are provided in the third workstation area, with the third fixture located at the front end of the second robotic arm; a second quick-change male plate is provided at the end of the second robotic arm; the third fixture includes a third frame, with a third quick-change female plate provided at the rear end of the third frame; a second air blowing assembly is provided at the upper end of the third frame, extending beyond the front end of the third frame, and is configured to blow away the lower mold; a first air blowing assembly is also provided at the upper end of the second air blowing assembly, which is configured to blow away the upper mold; a third air blowing assembly and a fourth clamping mechanism are provided at the lower end of the third frame, the fourth clamping mechanism being configured to clamp and fix the molded part, and the third air blowing assembly being configured to blow air to cool the molded part fixed on the fourth clamping mechanism.

[0023] A further technical solution is as follows: the second air blowing assembly includes two parallel extension rods, the first end of which is mounted on the third frame, and the second end of which extends out of the front end of the third frame. A first air blowing pipe is fixed to the lower end of the second end of the two extension rods, and a plurality of second nozzles are provided on the second air blowing pipe. The first air blowing assembly includes a first air blowing pipe mounted on the upper end of the two extension rods. The first air blowing pipe is rectangular and has a plurality of first nozzles at its upper end. The fourth clamping mechanism includes second lifting cylinders mounted on both sides of the lower end of the third frame along its length. A second contouring fixture is mounted on the output end of the two second lifting cylinders. A vacuum suction cup is mounted on the lower end of the second contouring fixture. Linkage clamps are spaced around the side of the third frame in a circumferential manner. The third air blowing assembly includes a third air blowing pipe mounted on the lower end of the third frame. A third nozzle is mounted on the lower end of the third air blowing pipe. The surface of the second contouring fixture has gaps to allow cold air blown out by the third nozzle to pass through.

[0024] A further technical solution is that the third workstation area also includes a fourth fixture, which includes a first half-frame and a second half-frame connected to the upper end of the first half-frame. Both the first half-frame and the second half-frame have their openings facing upwards. A fourth quick-change female plate is provided at the front end of the first half-frame. Fourth nozzles are provided at the front and rear ends of the first half-frame. Two fifth nozzles are provided on one side of the first half-frame. Sixth nozzles are provided on the two opposite inner sides of the second half-frame. Two seventh nozzles are provided on one side of the second half-frame.

[0025] A further technical solution is that the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line also includes: a first positioning platform, set on the ground to the right of the first material area; when the first fixture is returned to its position, the lower end of the first fixture is supported on the first positioning platform and the lower end of the first fixture is engaged with the upper end of the first positioning platform; a second positioning platform, set on the ground of the second workstation area; the upper end of the second positioning platform is provided with a first positioning post, and the upper end of the first positioning post is provided with a first positioning rod, the outer diameter of the first positioning rod being smaller than the outer diameter of the first positioning post; when the second fixture is returned to its position, the lower end of the second fixture is supported on the first positioning post and is inserted into the first positioning rod; a third positioning platform, set on the ground at the rear end of the second robotic arm; the upper end of the third positioning platform is provided with a second positioning post, and the upper end of the second positioning post is provided with a second positioning rod, the outer diameter of the second positioning rod being smaller than the outer diameter of the second positioning post; when the third fixture is returned to its position, the lower end of the third fixture is supported on the second positioning post and is inserted into the second positioning rod; a hook is mounted on the side of the third positioning platform; when the fourth fixture is returned to its position, the first half-frame is hung on the hook, at which time the fourth quick-change mother plate faces upward.

[0026] The production method of the aforementioned HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line includes the following steps:

[0027] Transfer of preform and foam skeleton:

[0028] The first robotic arm connects to the first fixture;

[0029] The first robotic arm moves the first fixture to the first material area, the first clamping mechanism at the lower end of the first fixture clamps the preformed material, the first robotic arm moves the first fixture above the second fixture, the first clamping mechanism releases the preformed material and makes the preformed material attach to the pressing mechanism at the upper end of the second fixture;

[0030] The first robotic arm drives the first fixture to rotate 180° in the vertical plane and moves the first fixture to the first material area. The second clamping mechanism at the lower end of the first fixture clamps the foam skeleton. The first robotic arm moves the first fixture to the second material area. The second clamping mechanism releases the foam skeleton and places it in the second material area. The first robotic arm drives the first fixture to rotate 180° in the vertical plane.

[0031] The first robotic arm moves the first fixture back into position, and the first robotic arm separates from the first fixture;

[0032] The first robotic arm connects to the second fixture, and the third clamping mechanism at the upper end of the second fixture fixes the preformed material onto the pressing mechanism. Then, the first robotic arm drives the second fixture to rotate 180° in the vertical plane.

[0033] Feeding:

[0034] The first robotic arm moves the second fixture onto the lower mold, and the third clamping mechanism of the second fixture releases the preform material, allowing the preform material to fall into the lower mold.

[0035] The pressing mechanism at the lower end of the second fixture presses down the inner side of the preformed material shell and the reinforcing edge, so that it is tightly attached to the inner wall of the lower mold.

[0036] The first robotic arm moves the second fixture back into position and separates from the second fixture;

[0037] forming:

[0038] The upper and lower molds of the molding press are closed and pressure is maintained. Resin is injected into the mold and heated to cure, thus obtaining the molded part.

[0039] Material preparation:

[0040] The second robotic arm moves the third fixture 8 to between the upper and lower molds, and the second robotic arm moves the third fixture and controls the first air blowing component to blow the upper mold.

[0041] The fourth clamping mechanism at the lower end of the third fixture fixes the molded part, and the second robotic arm moves the third fixture and controls the second air blowing assembly to blow the lower mold.

[0042] The second robotic arm moves the third fixture to remove the molded part from the molding press, while the third air blowing assembly at the lower end of the third fixture blows air to cool the molded part.

[0043] The second robotic arm moves the third fixture 8 to the second material area, and the fourth clamping mechanism of the third fixture releases the molded part and places the molded part in the second material area.

[0044] The second robotic arm moves and the third fixture returns to its position.

[0045] The further technical solution is that, in the second cycle of the above production method, the steps of transferring the foam skeleton and preform material in the second cycle are carried out simultaneously with the molding steps and unloading steps in the previous cycle;

[0046] The molding press (1) has a pressing pressure of 18000KN, a vacuum pressure of -98kpa, a vacuum time of 40s, an injection pressure of 10~12MPa, an upper mold heating temperature of 120℃, a lower mold heating temperature of 100℃, and a holding time of 280s.

[0047] A further technical solution is that, after the material feeding step, the following step is also included:

[0048] Spray release agent:

[0049] The second robotic arm separates from the third fixture;

[0050] The second robotic arm connects to the fourth fixture and moves the fourth fixture to extend the first half-frame into the lower mold. The second robotic arm moves the fourth fixture so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture sprays release agent onto the inner surface of the lower mold. The second robotic arm moves the fourth fixture so that the upper mold extends into the second half-frame. The second robotic arm moves the fourth fixture so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture sprays release agent onto the outer surface of the upper mold.

[0051] The second robotic arm moves the fourth fixture back into place and separates from the fourth fixture;

[0052] The second robotic arm connects to the third fixture.

[0053] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present invention are as follows:

[0054] (i) In the HP-RTM molded battery case automated production line of the present invention, the first robotic arm is connected to the first fixture, and the foam skeleton is transferred to the second material area through the second clamping mechanism of the first fixture. The preformed material is transferred to the pressing mechanism of the second fixture through the first clamping mechanism of the first fixture. The first robotic arm switches to the second fixture, and the preformed material is fixed to the pressing mechanism through the third clamping mechanism of the second fixture. The second fixture is driven to transport the preformed material into the lower mold. The third clamping mechanism releases the preformed material and the pressing mechanism presses down, so that the preformed material is pressed tightly into the lower mold, thereby realizing the automatic feeding of the preformed material.

[0055] After molding by the molding press, the second robotic arm connects to the third fixture and fixes the molded part through the fourth clamping mechanism at the lower end of the third fixture. The molded part is cooled by blowing air through the third air blowing assembly at the lower end of the third fixture, while the second robotic arm moves the third fixture and the molded part out of the molding press. After the molded part cools to the set temperature, the second robotic arm moves the third fixture to the second material area, and the fourth clamping mechanism releases the molded part, achieving alternating stacking of the molded part and the foam skeleton, resulting in a high degree of automation.

[0056] Meanwhile, when the second robotic arm moves the third fixture between the upper and lower molds, the upper mold is blew by the first air blowing component at the upper end of the third fixture. When the second robotic arm moves out of the third fixture and the second air blowing component is aligned with the lower mold, the second air blowing component blew by the lower mold. The system is fully functional and has a high yield of battery casings.

[0057] (ii) Furthermore, since the foam skeleton and the molded part need to be stacked alternately in this application, the first material area and the second material area can only be placed on the same side of the molding press. By integrating the first clamping mechanism and the second clamping mechanism on the first fixture, the pressing mechanism and the third clamping mechanism on the second fixture, and the first air blowing assembly, the second air blowing assembly, the third air blowing assembly and the fourth clamping mechanism on the third fixture, the movement range of the first robotic arm covers the first work station area, the second work station area and the molding press, and the first fixture and the second fixture are switched by a quick change plate. The movement range of the second robotic arm covers the second work station area, the third work station area and the molding press. The structure is cleverly matched, and the equipment has a high degree of integration and high space utilization. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a front view schematic diagram of the molding press in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 3 This is an isometric view of the preform material in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 4 This is an isometric view of the second material area in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 5 This is an isometric view of the first fixture in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 6 This is an isometric view of the second clamping mechanism in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 7 This is an isometric view of the second fixture in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 8 This is an isometric view from the first perspective of the third fixture in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 9 This is an isometric view from the second perspective of the third fixture in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 10 This is an isometric view of the fourth fixture in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 11 This is an isometric view of the first fixture being positioned on the first positioning table in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 12 This is a side view of the first fixture being positioned on the first positioning table in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 13 This is an isometric view of the second fixture being positioned on the second positioning table in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 14 This is an isometric view of the third fixture being positioned on the third positioning table in the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line of the present invention.

[0072] In the picture:

[0073] 1. Molding press; 11. Frame; 12. Upper die; 13. Lower die; 2. First robotic arm; 21. First quick-change male platen; 3. First material area; 31. First material rack; 32. Preformed material; 321. Shell; 322. Reinforcing edge; 33. Foam skeleton; 331. Reinforcing rib; 332. Support part; 4. First fixture; 41. First frame; 411. First quick-change female platen; 42. First clamping mechanism; 421. Needle suction cup; 422. Finger cylinder; 43. Second clamping mechanism; 431. Clamping plate; 432 433. Telescopic cylinder; 434. Rack; 435. Fixing plate; 436. Gear; 437. Guide sleeve; 448. Slide rail; 45. First positioning table; 46. First frame; 47. First locking block; 48. Second locking block; 59. Second fixture; 50. Second frame; 511. Second quick-change female disc; 512. Comb teeth; 52. Pressing mechanism; 521. First lifting cylinder; 522. First contouring fixture; 523. Fixed edge; 54. Rotary clamping cylinder; 55. Second positioning table; 56. First positioning column 6. Second material area; 61. Second material rack; 62. Molded part; 7. Second robotic arm; 71. Second quick-change male tray; 8. Third fixture; 81. Third frame; 811. Third quick-change female tray; 82. First air blowing assembly; 821. First air blowing pipe; 822. First nozzle; 83. Second air blowing assembly; 831. Extension rod; 832. Second air blowing pipe; 833. Second nozzle; 84. Third air blowing assembly; 841. Third air blowing pipe; 842. Third nozzle; 85. Fourth clamping mechanism; 851. Second lifting... 852. Lowering cylinder; 8521. Second contouring fixture; 8522. Pressure plate; 8523. Connecting rod; 8524. Side plate; 8525. Fixing strip; 8526. Vacuum suction cup; 853. Connecting rod clamp; 854. Temperature sensor; 86. Third positioning stage; 861. Second positioning post; 862. Second positioning rod; 9. Fourth fixture; 91. First half-frame; 911. Fourth quick-change mother plate; 912. Fourth nozzle; 913. Fifth nozzle; 92. Second half-frame; 921. Sixth nozzle; 922. Seventh nozzle. Detailed Implementation

[0074] To further illustrate the technical means and effects of the present invention in achieving its intended purpose, the following detailed description of the specific implementation methods, structures, features, and effects of the present invention, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, is provided below.

[0075] First embodiment:

[0076] This embodiment discloses an automated production line for HP-RTM molded battery casings.

[0077] like Figure 1As shown, the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line includes a molding press 1 and a first work station area, a second work station area, and a third work station area arranged sequentially from right to left at the front end of the molding press 1.

[0078] In this embodiment, the upper end is the end away from the ground, and the lower end is the end close to the ground. In the following structure, the fourth fixture is described as an example of the usage state, and the other devices are described as an example of the reset state.

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, the molding press 1 includes a frame 11, a lower mold 13 is provided at the lower end of the frame 11, and an upper mold 12 is provided inside the frame 11 at the upper end of the lower mold 13 and can slide up and down. The pre-formed material 32 is placed into the lower mold 13. The molding press 1 drives the upper mold 12 to slide down and close with the lower mold 13 and maintain pressure. The molding press 1 injects resin into the closed mold. The mold is heated and cured to obtain the molded part 62.

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, specifically, the preform 32 in this application includes a shell 321, which is a rectangular truncated hollow structure. The shell 321 has a draft angle of 1.5° on its side, meaning the side is nearly vertical. The shell 321 has an opening at its lower end, and a reinforcing edge 322 is provided around the lower outer side of the shell 321. The molded part 62 has the same shape as the preform 32.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the first workstation area is equipped with a first robotic arm 2, a first material area 3, and a first fixture 4. The first material area 3 and the first fixture 4 are located at the front end of the first robotic arm 2. The first robotic arm 2 is fixed to the ground, and its end is equipped with a first quick-change male plate 21, which can dock with a first quick-change female plate 411 and a second quick-change female plate 511. The first robotic arm 2 is a six-axis robotic arm, such as the commercially available Kawasaki six-axis robotic arm CP180. The first quick-change male plate 21 is, for example, the robot tool changer LTC-0010F from Zhengzhou Leading Robotics Co., Ltd. The first quick-change male plate 21 is connected to the first robotic arm 2 via transition flange screws. The quick-change plate can be configured with expansion modules as needed, such as electrical signal combination modules, safety docking modules, hydraulic fluid modules, power transmission modules, and pneumatic transmission modules. The safety docking module controls the quick-change disc to release the tool side only on the positioning platform. The hydraulic fluid module supplies fluid media, such as cooling water and pressurized oil, to the mechanisms and components on the fixture via pipelines. The power transmission module supplies power to the mechanisms and components on the fixture, and the pneumatic transmission module supplies gas to the mechanisms and components on the fixture via pipelines. A first material rack 31 is set on the ground in the first material area 3. Several pre-formed materials 32 are stacked on the first material rack 31, and a foam frame 33 is stacked between adjacent pre-formed materials 32. Figure 4As shown, specifically, the foam frame 33 in this application is a hollow frame. Preferably, the foam frame 33 has reinforcing ribs 331 inside to improve its supporting strength. The foam frame 33 has support portions 332 on both sides in the width direction, which reduces the material used in the foam frame 33 while ensuring the internal support effect of the preformed material 32. When the preformed material 32 is stacked, the opening faces downward and it is fitted on the outside of the foam frame 33. The top of the inside is supported on the foam frame 33, and there is a gap between the inner wall and the outside of the shell 321 of the next layer of preformed material 32 to facilitate the loading and unloading of materials.

[0082] like Figure 5 As shown, the first fixture 4 includes a first frame 41, a first quick-change mother plate 411 disposed on the side of the first frame 41, a second clamping mechanism 43 disposed at the upper end of the first frame 41, the second clamping mechanism 43 being configured to clamp the foam skeleton 33, and a first clamping mechanism 42 disposed at the lower end of the first frame 41, the first clamping mechanism 42 being configured to clamp the preformed material 32. Exemplarily, the first clamping mechanism 42 includes finger cylinders 422 circumferentially spaced at the lower end of the first frame 41 and a plurality of needle-type suction cups 421 disposed at the lower end of the first frame 41. The needle-type suction cups 421, such as those from Kunshan Mairui Precision Industry Co., Ltd., clamp the top of the preformed material 32 housing 321 through crisscrossing needles. The finger cylinders 422, such as the Airtac two-jaw pneumatic finger HFK-16, have their clamping ends corresponding to the reinforcing edge 322 of the preformed material 32. The second clamping mechanism 43 has two sets, spaced apart along the length of the first frame 41. The second clamping mechanism 43 includes two slide rails 437 parallel to the width of the first frame 41 and mounted on it. Two clamping plates 431 are provided, their lower ends simultaneously engaged with the two slide rails 437 and capable of sliding along them. Two telescopic cylinders 432 are connected in parallel between the two clamping plates 431. Figure 6 As shown, preferably, racks 433 are arranged opposite each other at the lower ends of the two clamping plates 431, and a fixed plate 434 is connected between the lower ends of the two slide rails 437. A gear 435 is rotatably arranged at the upper end of the fixed plate 434, and guide sleeves 436 are respectively arranged on both sides of the upper end of the fixed plate 434. The two racks 433 pass through the guide sleeves 436 and mesh with the two sides of the gear 435. When the piston rod of the telescopic cylinder 432 extends or retracts, it drives the two clamping plates 431 to slide towards each other along the two slide rails 437. The two clamping plates 431 are clamped on both sides of the foam skeleton 33 in the width direction. The two clamping plates 431 drive the racks 433 to slide towards each other, and the two racks 433 synchronously drive the gear 435 to rotate, ensuring that the two clamping plates 431 move synchronously.

[0083] like Figure 4As shown, a second fixture 5 and a second material area 6 are set in the second workstation area, with the second material area 6 located at the front end of the second fixture 5. A second material rack 61 is set on the ground within the second material area 6, on which several molded parts 62 are stacked. A foam frame 33 is placed between adjacent molded parts 62. When stacked, the molded parts 62 have their openings facing upwards, fitting over the outer side of the foam frame 33, with their lower ends supported by the foam frame 33. A gap exists between the outer wall of the shell 321 and the inner wall of the shell 321 of the next layer of molded parts 62, facilitating material handling. Preferably, a third contour workpiece with the same shape as the molded part 62 is first placed on the second material rack 61, allowing the foam frame 33 to be placed inside the third contour workpiece during the first run of the production line, followed by the newly molded part 62.

[0084] like Figure 7 As shown, the second fixture 5 includes a second frame 51. A second quick-change female plate 511 is provided at the front end of the second frame 51. A pressing mechanism 52 and a third clamping mechanism are provided at the upper end of the second frame 51. The third clamping mechanism is arranged circumferentially around the pressing mechanism 52. The pressing mechanism 52 is configured to press the preformed material 32 to fit tightly against the inner wall of the lower mold 13. The third clamping mechanism is configured to fix the preformed material 32 onto the pressing mechanism 52. For example, the pressing mechanism 52 includes a first contouring fixture 522 and a first lifting cylinder 521. The first lifting cylinder 521 is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper end of the second frame 51 in the width direction. The first contouring fixture 522 is provided on the output ends of the two first lifting cylinders 521, and its shape matches the interior of the preformed material 32. Fixed edges 523 and reinforcing edges 322 are provided around the lower end of the first contouring fixture 522. The third clamping mechanism includes a rotary clamping cylinder 53. Several rotary clamping cylinders 53 are circumferentially spaced around the first contouring fixture 522 on the upper end of the second frame 51. The fixed end of the rotary clamping cylinder 53 rotates to above the fixed edge 523 and retracts, fixing the reinforcing edge 322 of the preform 32 to the fixed edge 523. Preferably, the second frame 51 includes a second rod. A plurality of parallel comb teeth 512 are vertically arranged at the rear end of the second rod. Two first lifting cylinders 521 are spaced apart on each comb tooth 512. First contouring fixtures 522 are arranged on the output ends of the two first lifting cylinders 521 on the same comb tooth 512. The outer surfaces of all the first contouring fixtures 522 together form a shape that mates with the interior of the preform 32. The rotary clamping cylinders 53 are disposed on the comb teeth 512 and located on the side of the first contouring fixture 522. By setting the second frame 51 in a comb-like shape, equipment costs are reduced, while the downward pressure on the preform 32 is made more uniform.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, the HP-RTM molded battery case automated production line further includes a third work station area, which is located at the front end of the molding press 1 and to the left of the second work station area.

[0086] The third workstation area is equipped with a second robotic arm 7 and a third fixture 8, with the third fixture 8 located at the front end of the second robotic arm 7. The second robotic arm 7 has the same structure as the first robotic arm 2, is mounted on the ground, and has a second quick-change male plate 71 at its end, which can dock with a third quick-change female plate 811 and a fourth quick-change female plate 911. Figure 8 As shown, the third fixture 8 includes a third frame 81, with a third quick-change female plate 811 disposed at the rear end of the third frame 81. A second air blowing assembly 83 is disposed at the upper end of the third frame 81, extending beyond the front end of the third frame 81, and is configured to blow the lower mold 13. A first air blowing assembly 82 is also disposed at the upper end of the second air blowing assembly 83, and is configured to blow the upper mold 12. For example, the second air blowing assembly 83 includes two extension rods 831 arranged parallel to the width direction of the third frame 81. The first ends of the two extension rods 831 are disposed on the third frame 81, and the second ends extend beyond the front end of the third frame 81. A first air blowing pipe 821 is fixed to the lower end of the second ends of the two extension rods 831, and a plurality of second nozzles 833 are disposed on the second air blowing pipe 832. The first air blowing assembly 82 includes a first air blowing pipe 821 mounted on the upper end of the two extension rods 831. The first air blowing pipe 821 is rectangular, and a plurality of first nozzles 822 are disposed at its upper end.

[0087] like Figure 9As shown, a third air-blowing assembly 84 and a fourth clamping mechanism 85 are provided at the lower end of the third frame 81. The fourth clamping mechanism 85 is configured to clamp and fix the molded part 62, and the third air-blowing assembly 84 is configured to blow air to cool the molded part 62 fixed on the fourth clamping mechanism 85. For example, the fourth clamping mechanism 85 includes second lifting cylinders 851 disposed on both sides of the lower end of the third frame 81 along its length. Second contouring fixtures 852 are disposed on the output ends of the two second lifting cylinders 851. Vacuum suction cups 8525 are disposed at the lower end of the second contouring fixtures 852. Linkage clamps 853 are spaced circumferentially around the side of the third frame 81. The third air-blowing assembly 84 includes a third air-blowing pipe 841 mounted on the lower end of the third frame 81. The third air-blowing pipe 841 is parallel to the length of the third frame 81. A third nozzle 842 is disposed at the lower end of the third air-blowing pipe 841. The surface of the second contouring fixture 852 has gaps for the cold air blown out by the third nozzle 842 to pass through. Specifically, the second contouring fixture 852 includes several side plates 8523 and fixing strips 8524 circumferentially disposed at the lower end of the third frame 81. The fixing strips 8524 are located outside the side plates 8523. Several pressure plates 8521 are disposed on the output end of the second lifting cylinder 851. The pressure plates 8521 are spaced apart and connected together at their upper ends by connecting rods 8522. The interval between the pressure plates 8521 is the gap through which the gas blown out by the third nozzle 842 passes. The outer surfaces of the side plates 8523 and the lower surfaces of the pressure plates 8521 form a shape that mates with the interior of the molded part 62. The lower surfaces of the fixing strips 8524 form a shape that mates with the reinforcing edge 322. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the second contouring fixture 852 may also adopt the structure of the first contouring fixture 522. A temperature sensor 854 is also disposed at the lower end of the third frame 81 to detect the temperature of the molded part 62.

[0088] like Figure 10 As shown, the third workstation area further includes a fourth fixture 9. The fourth fixture 9 includes a first half-frame 91 and a second half-frame 92 connected to the upper end of the first half-frame 91. Both the first half-frame 91 and the second half-frame 92 have their openings facing upwards. A fourth quick-change mother plate 911 is provided at the front end of the first half-frame 91. A fourth nozzle 912 is provided at both the front and rear ends of the first half-frame 91. Two fifth nozzles 913 are provided on one side of the first half-frame 91. Sixth nozzles 921 are provided on the two opposite inner sides of the second half-frame 92. Two seventh nozzles 922 are provided on one side of the second half-frame 92.

[0089] Furthermore, the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line also includes a first positioning table 44, a second positioning table 54, and a third positioning table 86.

[0090] like Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the first positioning platform 44 is disposed on the ground to the right of the first material area 3. When the first fixture 4 is returned to its original position, the lower end of the first fixture 4 is supported on the first positioning platform 44 and the lower end of the first fixture 4 is engaged with the upper end of the first positioning platform 44. For example, two first frames 441 are spaced apart along the length direction of the first frame 41 on the upper end of the first positioning platform 44. The lower end of the first fixture 4 is supported on the first frames 441. First locking blocks 442 are respectively disposed on the two first frames 441. The two first locking blocks 442 are respectively located on both sides of the width direction of the first frame 41, restricting the movement of the first frame 41 in the width direction. Second locking blocks 443 are respectively disposed on both sides of the width direction of the first frame 41. The two second locking blocks 443 are engaged between the two first frames 441, restricting the movement of the first frame 41 in the length direction.

[0091] like Figure 13 As shown, the second positioning platform 54 is set on the ground of the second workstation area. A first positioning post 541 is set on the upper end of the second positioning platform 54, and a first positioning rod is set on the upper end of the first positioning post 541. The outer diameter of the first positioning rod is smaller than the outer diameter of the first positioning post 541. When the second fixture 5 is returned to its original position, the lower end of the second fixture 5 is supported on the first positioning post 541 and is inserted into the first positioning rod.

[0092] like Figure 14 As shown, the third positioning platform 86 is located on the ground at the rear end of the second robotic arm 7. A second positioning post 861 is mounted on the upper end of the third positioning platform 86, and a second positioning rod 862 is mounted on the upper end of the second positioning post 861. The outer diameter of the second positioning rod 862 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second positioning post 861. When the third fixture 8 is in its final position, its lower end is supported on the second positioning post 861 and connected to the second positioning rod 862. A hook is mounted on the side of the third positioning platform 86. When the fourth fixture 9 is in its final position, the first half-frame 91 is hooked onto the hook, and the fourth quick-change mother plate 911 faces upwards.

[0093] In this embodiment, since the foam skeleton 33 and the molded part 62 need to be stacked alternately, the first material area 3 and the second material area 6 can only be placed on the same side of the molding press 1. The first fixture 4 integrates the first clamping mechanism 42 and the second clamping mechanism 43, the second fixture 5 integrates the pressing mechanism 52 and the third clamping mechanism, and the third fixture 8 integrates the first air blowing assembly 82, the second air blowing assembly 83, the third air blowing assembly 84 and the fourth clamping mechanism 85. The movement range of the first robotic arm 2 covers the first work station area, the second work station area and the molding press 1, and the first fixture 4 and the second fixture 5 are switched by a quick-change plate. The movement range of the second robotic arm 7 covers the second work station area, the third work station area and the molding press 1. The structure is cleverly matched, and the equipment has a high degree of integration and high space utilization.

[0094] Second embodiment:

[0095] This embodiment discloses a production method using the aforementioned HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line, including the following steps:

[0096] Step S1, transfer the preform 32 and the foam skeleton 33:

[0097] Step S11: The first robotic arm 2 connects to the first fixture 4.

[0098] In this embodiment, the real-time location of each device's usage status is used to describe it.

[0099] Specifically, the first quick-change male disk 21 of the first robotic arm 2 is docked with the first quick-change female disk 411 of the first fixture 4.

[0100] In step S12, the first robotic arm 2 moves the first fixture 4 to the first material area 3, the first clamping mechanism 42 at the lower end of the first fixture 4 clamps the preformed material 32, the first robotic arm 2 moves the first fixture 4 above the second fixture 5, the first clamping mechanism 42 releases the preformed material 32 and makes the preformed material 32 attach to the pressing mechanism 52 at the upper end of the second fixture 5.

[0101] Specifically, during movement, the claw of the finger cylinder 422 opens, facilitating its movement to the side of the reinforcing edge 322. After moving to the first material area 3, the needle suction cup 421 needles and fixes the top of the preformed material 32, and the claw of the finger cylinder 422 closes to clamp the reinforcing edge 322. When the first robotic arm 2 moves to the upper end of the second fixture 5, the preformed material 32 is secured to the first contouring fixture 522.

[0102] In step S13, the first robotic arm 2 drives the first fixture 4 to rotate 180° in the vertical plane and moves the first fixture 4 to the first material area 3. The second clamping mechanism 43 at the lower end of the first fixture 4 clamps the foam frame 33. The first robotic arm 2 moves the first fixture 4 to the second material area 6, and the second clamping mechanism 43 releases the foam frame 33 and places it in the second material area 6. The first robotic arm 2 drives the first fixture 4 to rotate 180° in the vertical plane.

[0103] Specifically, after the first fixture 4 rotates 180° in the vertical plane, the second clamping mechanism 43 faces downwards. The telescopic cylinder 432 retracts, causing the two clamping plates 431 to move towards each other along the two slide rails 437 and clamp the foam skeleton 33 on both sides in the width direction, thus lifting the foam skeleton 33. During the first operation, the foam skeleton 33 is placed into the third contouring fixture. After the first fixture 4 rotates 180° again, the first clamping mechanism 42 faces downwards.

[0104] In this application, the order of steps S12 and S13 can be changed, depending on the type of material placed at the top of the first material area 3, as long as the foam skeleton 33 can be placed inside the molded part 62.

[0105] In step S14, the first robotic arm 2 moves the first fixture 4 back to its original position, and the first robotic arm 2 separates from the first fixture 4.

[0106] Specifically, the first quick-change male disk 21 of the first robotic arm 2 is disengaged from the first quick-change female disk 411 of the first fixture 4.

[0107] In step S15, the first robotic arm 2 connects to the second fixture 5, and the third clamping mechanism at the upper end of the second fixture 5 fixes the preform 32 onto the pressing mechanism 52. Then, the first robotic arm 2 drives the second fixture 5 to rotate 180° in the vertical plane.

[0108] Specifically, the first quick-change male disc 21 of the first robotic arm 2 is connected to the second quick-change female disc 511 of the second fixture 5. The fixed end of the rotary clamping cylinder 53 rotates to above the fixed edge 523 and retracts, fixing the reinforcing edge 322 of the preform 32 to the fixed edge 523, thereby fixing the preform 32 to the pressing mechanism 52. After the second fixture 5 rotates 180° in the vertical plane, the preform 32 rotates to an opening-facing state.

[0109] Step S2, Loading:

[0110] In step S21, the first robotic arm 2 moves the second fixture 5 onto the lower mold 13. The third clamping mechanism of the second fixture 5 releases the preformed material 32, causing the preformed material 32 to fall into the lower mold 13. The pressing mechanism 52 at the lower end of the second fixture 5 presses down on the inner side of the shell 321 and the reinforcing edge 322 of the preformed material 32, so that it is pressed tightly against the inner wall of the lower mold 13.

[0111] Specifically, the fixed end of the rotary clamping cylinder 53 extends and rotates away from the fixed edge 523, causing the preformed material 32 to fall into the lower mold 13 under gravity. The first telescopic cylinder 432 is activated, driving the first contouring tool 522 to press down on various parts inside the housing 321 of the preformed material 32, and the fixed edge 523 presses down on the reinforcing edge 322 of the preformed material 32.

[0112] In step S22, the first robotic arm 2 moves the second fixture 5 back to its original position and separates from the second fixture 5.

[0113] Specifically, the first quick-change male disk 21 of the first robotic arm 2 is disengaged from the second quick-change female disk 511 of the second fixture 5.

[0114] Step S3, molding: The upper mold 12 and lower mold 13 of the molding press 1 are closed and pressure is maintained. Resin is injected into the mold and heated to cure, resulting in the molded part 62.

[0115] Specifically, the molding press 1 has a mold closing pressure of 18000KN. After mold closing, a vacuum is applied at a pressure of -98kPa for 40 seconds. The molding press 1 injects resin through a mixing head. The reaction time in the mixing head is very short, so the resin viscosity decreases rapidly during the injection stage. The injection pressure is 10~12MPa to ensure the resin fills the mold cavity quickly, completing the impregnation process of the preform material 32 fiber and promoting air bubble removal. After resin injection, the upper mold heating temperature is 120℃, the lower mold heating temperature is 100℃, and the holding time is 280 seconds. These parameters need to be adjusted appropriately when selecting different materials or producing different types of products.

[0116] Step S4, unloading:

[0117] In step S41, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 between the upper mold 12 and the lower mold 13, and the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 and controls the first air blowing assembly 82 to blow the upper mold 12.

[0118] Specifically, air is introduced into the first air pipe 821 and ejected from the first nozzle 822 to blow clean the surface of the upper mold 12.

[0119] In step S42, the fourth clamping mechanism 85 at the lower end of the third fixture 8 fixes the molded part 62, and the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 and controls the second air blowing assembly 83 to blow the lower mold 13.

[0120] Specifically, the second telescopic cylinder 432 is activated, and its output end extends to drive the second contouring fixture 852 to descend to its lower end, abutting the bottom inner side of the molded part 62. The vacuum suction cup 8525 draws a vacuum to hold the molded part 62 in place, while the output end of the second telescopic cylinder 432 retracts, causing the molded part 62 to rise to a certain height. Then, the fixed end of the linkage clamp 853 flips, fixing the reinforcing edge 322 of the molded part 62 to the fixing strip 8524, thus fixing the molded material to the second contouring fixture 852. When the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 until the second air pipe 832 is positioned above the lower mold 13, air enters through the second air pipe 832 and is ejected from the second nozzle 833, cleaning the surface of the lower mold 13. The movement during cleaning of the upper mold 12 and the lower mold 13 ensures that the nozzle can clean the entire mold surface.

[0121] In step S43, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 to remove the molded part 62 from the molding press 1, while the third air blowing assembly 84 at the lower end of the third fixture 8 blows air to cool the molded part 62.

[0122] Specifically, air is introduced into the third air pipe 841 and ejected from the third nozzle 842 to cool the interior of the molded part 62.

[0123] In step S44, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 to the second material area 6, and the fourth clamping mechanism 85 of the third fixture 8 releases the molded part 62 and places the molded part 62 in the second material area 6.

[0124] Specifically, when the temperature sensor 854 detects that the molded part 62 has cooled down to the set temperature, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 to the second material area 6. The fixed end of the linkage clamp 853 flips and moves away from the lower end of the fixing bar 8524, so that the molded part 62 is stacked on the foam skeleton 33.

[0125] Step S45: The second robotic arm 7 moves and the third fixture 8 returns to its original position.

[0126] Furthermore, in the second cycle of the above production method, step S1, transferring the foam skeleton 33 and preformed material 32, is performed simultaneously with step S3, forming, and step S4, unloading, from the previous cycle. After step S15 is completed in the second cycle, the first mechanical arm waits in the first workstation area until the second mechanical arm 7 completely removes the third fixture 8 and the formed part 62 from the forming press 1 before executing step S2. This speeds up the cycle time while avoiding interference between the two mechanical arms.

[0127] Furthermore, after the material cutting step, the following steps are also included:

[0128] Step S5, spray release agent:

[0129] Step S51: The second robotic arm 7 separates from the third fixture 8.

[0130] Specifically, the second quick-change male disk 71 of the second robotic arm 7 disengages from the third quick-change female disk 811 of the third fixture 8.

[0131] In step S52, the second robotic arm 7 connects to the fourth fixture 9 and moves the fourth fixture 9 so that the first half-frame 91 extends into the lower mold 13. The second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture 9 sprays a release agent onto the inner surface of the lower mold 13. The second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 so that the upper mold 12 extends into the second half-frame 92. The second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture 9 sprays a release agent onto the outer surface of the upper mold 12.

[0132] Specifically, the second quick-change male platen 71 of the second robotic arm 7 aligns with the fourth quick-change female platen 911 of the fourth fixture 9. When the fourth fixture 9 is sprayed with release agent, it is parallel to the width direction of the upper mold 12 and the lower mold 13. When the first half-frame 91 extends into the lower mold 13, the two fourth nozzles 912 are aligned with the front and rear sides of the lower mold 13, respectively. The second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 horizontally, and the fourth nozzles 912 spray release agent onto the front and rear sides of the lower mold 13. When the upper mold 12 extends into the second half-frame 92, the two sixth nozzles 921 are aligned with the front and rear sides of the upper mold 12, respectively. The second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 horizontally, and the sixth nozzles 921 spray release agent onto the front and rear sides of the upper mold 12. Simultaneously, the second robotic arm 7 rotates the fourth fixture 9 around the quick-change platen axis, causing the fifth nozzle 913 and the seventh nozzle 922 to spray release agent onto the left and right sides and bottom surface of the upper mold 12, or onto the left and right sides and bottom surface of the lower mold 13.

[0133] In step S53, the second robotic arm 7 moves the fourth fixture 9 back to its original position and separates from the fourth fixture 9.

[0134] Specifically, the second quick-change male disk 71 of the second robotic arm 7 disengages from the fourth quick-change female disk 911 of the fourth fixture 9.

[0135] In step S54, the second robotic arm 7 connects to the third fixture 8.

[0136] Specifically, the second quick-change male disk 71 of the second robotic arm 7 is docked with the third quick-change female disk 811 of the third fixture 8.

[0137] In this embodiment, the first robotic arm 2 is connected to the first fixture 4. The foam skeleton 33 is transferred to the second material area 6 through the second clamping mechanism 43 of the first fixture 4. The preformed material 32 is transferred to the pressing mechanism 52 of the second fixture 5 through the first clamping mechanism 42 of the first fixture 4. The first robotic arm 2 is then connected to the second fixture 5. The preformed material 32 is fixed to the pressing mechanism 52 through the third clamping mechanism of the second fixture 5. The second fixture 5 is then driven to transport the preformed material 32 into the lower mold 13. The third clamping mechanism releases the preformed material 32 and the pressing mechanism 52 presses down, so that the preformed material 32 is pressed tightly into the lower mold 13, thereby realizing the automatic feeding of the preformed material 32.

[0138] After molding by the molding press 1, the second robotic arm 7 connects to the third fixture 8 and fixes the molded part 62 through the fourth clamping mechanism 85 at the lower end of the third fixture 8. The molded part 62 is cooled by blowing air through the third air blowing component 84 at the lower end of the third fixture 8. At the same time, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 and the molded part 62 out of the molding press 1. After the molded part 62 is cooled to the set temperature, the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 to the second material area 6, and the fourth clamping mechanism 85 releases the molded part 62, realizing the alternating stacking of the molded part 62 and the foam skeleton 33, with a high degree of automation.

[0139] Meanwhile, when the second robotic arm 7 moves the third fixture 8 between the upper mold 12 and the lower mold 13, the upper mold 12 is purged by the first air blowing component 82 at the upper end of the third fixture 8, and the lower mold 13 is purged by the second air blowing component 83 on the third fixture 8. The system is fully functional and has a high yield of battery casings.

[0140] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated production line for HP-RTM molding of battery casings, characterized in that, The HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line includes: A forming press (1) includes a frame (11), a lower mold (13) is provided at the lower end of the frame (11), and an upper mold (12) is slidably provided at the upper end of the lower mold (13) inside the frame (11). The front end of the forming press (1) is provided with a first work station area and a second work station area from right to left; The first workstation area is provided with a first robotic arm (2), a first material area (3) and a first fixture (4), the first material area (3) and the first fixture (4) are located at the front end of the first robotic arm (2); the end of the first robotic arm (2) is provided with a first quick-change male plate (21); a number of preformed materials (32) are stacked in the first material area (3), and a foam skeleton (33) is stacked between adjacent preformed materials (32); the first fixture (4) includes a first frame (41), the side of the first frame (41) is provided with a first quick-change female plate (411), the upper end of the first frame (41) is provided with a second clamping mechanism (43), the second clamping mechanism (43) is configured to clamp the foam skeleton (33), the lower end of the first frame (41) is provided with a first clamping mechanism (42), the first clamping mechanism (42) is configured to clamp the preformed material (32); The second work station area is provided with a second fixture (5) and a second material area (6), the second material area (6) being located at the front end of the second fixture (5); a number of molded parts (62) are stacked in the second material area (6), and a foam skeleton (33) is stacked between adjacent molded parts (62); the second fixture (5) includes a second frame (51), a second quick-change mother plate (511) is provided at the front end of the second frame (51), a pressing mechanism (52) and a third clamping mechanism are provided at the upper end of the second frame (51), the third clamping mechanism is arranged circumferentially around the pressing mechanism (52), the pressing mechanism (52) is configured to press down the preformed material (32) so that it is close to the inner wall of the lower mold (13), and the third clamping mechanism is configured to fix the preformed material (32) on the pressing mechanism (52); The first clamping mechanism (42) includes finger cylinders (422) circumferentially spaced at the lower end of the first frame (41) and a plurality of needle suction cups (421) disposed at the lower end of the first frame (41). The second clamping mechanism (43) has two sets, which are spaced apart along the length of the first frame (41). The second clamping mechanism (43) includes two slide rails (437) arranged parallel to the first frame (41); there are two clamping plates (431), the lower ends of the two clamping plates (431) are simultaneously engaged with the two slide rails (437) and can slide along the two slide rails (437). Two telescopic cylinders (432) are connected in parallel between the two clamping plates (431). The pressing mechanism (52) includes a first contouring fixture (522) and a first lifting cylinder (521). The first lifting cylinder (521) is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper width direction of the second frame (51). The first contouring fixture (522) is arranged on the output ends of the two first lifting cylinders (521). Fixed edges (523) are provided around the lower end of the first contouring fixture (522). The third clamping mechanism includes a rotary clamping cylinder (53). The rotary clamping cylinder (53) has several of them and is circumferentially spaced around the first contouring tool (522) on the upper end of the second frame (51). The fixed end of the rotary clamping cylinder (53) rotates to the top of the fixed side (523) and retracts to fix the reinforcing side (322) of the preform (32) to the fixed side (523).

2. The HP-RTM molding battery case automated production line according to claim 1, characterized in that: The preform material (32) includes a shell (321), which is a rectangular hollow structure with an opening at the lower end. A reinforcing edge (322) is provided at the lower outer side of the shell (321). The foam skeleton (33) is a hollow frame. The molded part (62) has the same shape as the preform material (32).

3. The HP-RTM molding battery case automated production line according to claim 2, characterized in that: The HP-RTM molded battery case automated production line also includes a third work station area, which is located at the front end of the molding press (1) and to the left of the second work station area; The third workstation area is equipped with a second robotic arm (7) and a third fixture (8). The third fixture (8) is located at the front end of the second robotic arm (7). A second quick-change male tray (71) is provided at the end of the second robotic arm (7). The third fixture (8) includes a third frame (81), and a third quick-change female tray (811) is provided at the rear end of the third frame (81). A second air-blowing assembly (83) is provided at the upper end of the third frame (81), and the second air-blowing assembly (83) extends out of the front end of the third frame (81). The component (83) is configured to blow the lower mold (13); the upper end of the second blowing component (83) is also provided with a first blowing component (82), which is configured to blow the upper mold (12); the lower end of the third frame (81) is provided with a third blowing component (84) and a fourth clamping mechanism (85), which is configured to clamp and fix the molded part (62), and the third blowing component (84) is configured to blow air to cool the molded part (62) fixed on the fourth clamping mechanism (85).

4. The HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second air blowing assembly (83) includes two parallel extension rods (831), with the first end of the two extension rods (831) disposed on the third frame (81) and the second end extending out of the front end of the third frame (81). The second air blowing pipe (832) is fixed to the lower end of the second end of the two extension rods (831), and a plurality of second nozzles (833) are disposed on the second air blowing pipe (832). The first air blowing assembly (82) includes a first air blowing pipe (821) mounted on the upper end of the two extension rods (831). The first air blowing pipe (821) is rectangular and has a plurality of first nozzles (822) at its upper end. The fourth clamping mechanism (85) includes a second lifting cylinder (851) disposed on both sides of the lower end of the third frame (81) along its length. A second contouring fixture (852) is disposed on the output end of the two second lifting cylinders (851). A vacuum suction cup (8525) is disposed at the lower end of the second contouring fixture (852). A linkage clamp (853) is disposed at intervals around the side of the third frame (81) in its circumferential direction. The third air blowing assembly (84) includes a third air blowing pipe (841) mounted on the lower end of the third frame (81), and a third nozzle (842) is provided at the lower end of the third air blowing pipe (841). The surface of the second contour tool (852) has a gap to allow the cold air blown out by the third nozzle (842) to pass through.

5. The HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line according to claim 4, characterized in that: The third work station area also includes a fourth fixture (9), which includes a first half-frame (91) and a second half-frame (92) connected to the upper end of the first half-frame (91). The first half-frame (91) and the second half-frame (92) both have their openings facing upwards. A fourth quick-change mother plate (911) is provided at the front end of the first half-frame (91). A fourth nozzle (912) is provided at both the front and rear ends of the first half-frame (91). Two fifth nozzles (913) are provided on one side of the first half-frame (91). A sixth nozzle (921) is provided on the two opposite inner sides of the second half-frame (92). Two seventh nozzles (922) are provided on one side of the second half-frame (92).

6. The HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line according to claim 5, characterized in that: Also includes The first positioning platform (44) is set on the ground to the right of the first material area (3). When the first fixture (4) is returned to its position, the lower end of the first fixture (4) is supported on the first positioning platform (44) and the lower end of the first fixture (4) is engaged with the upper end of the first positioning platform (44). The second positioning platform (54) is set on the ground of the second work station area. The upper end of the second positioning platform (54) is provided with a first positioning column (541), and the upper end of the first positioning column (541) is provided with a first positioning rod. The outer diameter of the first positioning rod is smaller than the outer diameter of the first positioning column (541). When the second fixture (5) is returned to its position, the lower end of the second fixture (5) is supported on the first positioning column (541) and inserted into the first positioning rod. The third positioning platform (86) is set on the ground at the rear end of the second robotic arm (7). The upper end of the third positioning platform (86) is provided with a second positioning post (861), and the upper end of the second positioning post (861) is provided with a second positioning rod (862). The outer diameter of the second positioning rod (862) is smaller than the outer diameter of the second positioning post (861). When the third fixture (8) is in place, the lower end of the third fixture (8) is supported on the second positioning post (861) and inserted into the second positioning rod (862). The third positioning platform (86) has a hook mounted on its side. When the fourth fixture (9) is in place, the first half-frame (91) is hung on the hook, and the fourth quick-change mother plate (911) is facing upward.

7. A production method using the HP-RTM molded battery casing automated production line as described in claim 6, comprising the following steps: Transfer of preform (32) and foam skeleton (33): The first robotic arm (2) is connected to the first fixture (4); The first robotic arm (2) moves the first fixture (4) to the first material area (3), the first clamping mechanism (42) at the lower end of the first fixture (4) clamps the preform material (32), the first robotic arm (2) moves the first fixture (4) above the second fixture (5), the first clamping mechanism (42) releases the preform material (32) and makes the preform material (32) attach to the pressing mechanism (52) at the upper end of the second fixture (5); The first robotic arm (2) drives the first fixture (4) to rotate 180° in the vertical plane and moves the first fixture (4) to the first material area (3). The second clamping mechanism (43) at the lower end of the first fixture (4) clamps the foam skeleton (33). The first robotic arm (2) moves the first fixture (4) to the second material area (6). The second clamping mechanism (43) releases the foam skeleton (33) and places it in the second material area (6). The first robotic arm (2) drives the first fixture (4) to rotate 180° in the vertical plane. The first robotic arm (2) moves the first fixture (4) back to its original position, and the first robotic arm (2) separates from the first fixture (4); The first robotic arm (2) is connected to the second fixture (5). The third clamping mechanism at the upper end of the second fixture (5) fixes the preform (32) onto the pressing mechanism (52). Then the first robotic arm (2) drives the second fixture (5) to rotate 180° in the vertical plane. Feeding: The first robotic arm (2) moves the second fixture (5) onto the lower mold (13), and the third clamping mechanism of the second fixture (5) releases the preform material (32), causing the preform material (32) to fall into the lower mold (13); The lower end of the second fixture (5) presses down the inner side of the shell (321) and the reinforcing edge (322) of the preform material (32). The first robotic arm (2) moves the second fixture (5) back to its original position and separates from the second fixture (5); forming: The upper mold (12) and lower mold (13) of the molding press (1) are closed and pressure is maintained. Resin is injected into the mold and heated to cure, resulting in a molded part (62). Material preparation: The second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) between the upper mold (12) and the lower mold (13), and the second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) and controls the first air blowing assembly (82) to blow the upper mold (12); The fourth clamping mechanism (85) at the lower end of the third fixture (8) fixes the molded part (62), and the second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) and controls the second air blowing assembly (83) to blow the lower mold (13); The second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) to remove the molded part (62) from the molding press (1), while the third air blowing assembly (84) at the lower end of the third fixture (8) blows air to cool the molded part (62); The second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) to the second material area (6), and the fourth clamping mechanism (85) of the third fixture (8) releases the molded part (62) and places the molded part (62) in the second material area (6). The second robotic arm (7) moves the third fixture (8) back into place.

8. The production method according to claim 7, characterized in that: In the second cycle of the production method, the steps of transferring the foam skeleton (33) and the preform material (32) in the second cycle are carried out simultaneously with the molding step and the unloading step; The molding press (1) has a pressing pressure of 18000kN, a vacuum pressure of -98kPa, a vacuum time of 40s, an injection pressure of 10~12MPa, an upper mold heating temperature of 120℃, a lower mold heating temperature of 100℃, and a holding time of 280s.

9. The production method according to claim 8, characterized in that: Following the material feeding step, the following steps are also included: Spray release agent: The second robotic arm (7) separates from the third fixture (8); The second robotic arm (7) connects to the fourth fixture (9) and moves the fourth fixture (9) so that the first half-frame (91) extends into the lower mold (13). The second robotic arm (7) moves the fourth fixture (9) so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture (9) sprays the release agent onto the inner surface of the lower mold (13). The second robotic arm (7) moves the fourth fixture (9) so that the upper mold (12) extends into the second half-frame (92). The second robotic arm (7) moves the fourth fixture (9) so that the nozzle on the fourth fixture (9) sprays the release agent onto the outer surface of the upper mold (12). The second robotic arm (7) moves the fourth fixture (9) back to its original position and separates from the fourth fixture (9); the second robotic arm (7) connects to the third fixture (8).

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