FPC bending method and FPC bending device

Abstract

The invention discloses an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) bending method and an FPC bending device. The FPC board is provided with a main body, a first bending part and a second bending part, wherein the first bending part and the second bending part are connected with the main body. The FPC bending method comprises the following steps: bending the first bending part of the FPC board along an X axis; a second bending part of the FPC board is bent along the Y axis, so that the second bending part and the first bending part are located on the same side of the main body; the second bending part of the FPC board is bent along the X axis, and then the second bending part of the FPC board is bent along the Z axis, so that the part, bent along the Z axis, of the second bending part is parallel to the first bending part. In the assembling process, the FPC board is bent in different directions in sequence, and the bending precision can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of FPC board bending, and more particularly to an FPC bending method and an FPC bending device. Background Art

[0002] In related technologies, when assembling FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) into other products, part of the FPC board structure needs to be bent to facilitate smooth assembly into the product. However, due to the flexibility of the FPC board itself, it will rebound after bending. The current FPC board bending method easily leads to low bending accuracy.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a new technical solution to solve the above technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a new technical solution for an FPC bending method.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method for bending an FPC is provided. The FPC board has a main body, and a first bending portion and a second bending portion connected to the main body. The FPC bending method includes: Bending the first bending portion of the FPC board along the X-axis; bending the second bent portion of the FPC board along the Y-axis so that the second bent portion and the first bent portion are located on the same side of the main body; The second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the X-axis, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z-axis, so that the Z-bent portion of the second bending portion is arranged parallel to the first bending portion.

[0006] Optionally, the step of bending the second bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis and then bending the second bent portion of the FPC board along the Z-axis further includes: The second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Y axis.

[0007] Optionally, before the step of bending the first bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis, the method further includes: Positioning the FPC board.

[0008] Optionally, positioning the FPC board includes: The FPC board is placed on a positioning plate to position the FPC board.

[0009] Optionally, the plurality of FPC boards are bent, the plurality of FPC boards are spaced apart along the Y-axis, and the plurality of FPC boards have a height difference in the Z-axis direction.

[0010] Optionally, assembling the FPC board on a product includes: The FPC board is pressed into the product.

[0011] Optionally, before assembling the FPC board to the product, the method further includes: The actual position of the product is collected and the product is adjusted to a preset position.

[0012] Optionally, after assembling the FPC board to the product, the method further comprises: The product is conveyed to a second assembly position, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the X axis, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z axis.

[0013] Optionally, the method further includes: A plurality of products are conveyed to a second assembly position, and the second bending portions of the FPC boards of the plurality of products are bent in sequence.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an FPC bending device is provided, which is capable of performing the FPC bending method described in the above embodiment.

[0015] One technical effect of the present application is that the FPC board is bent in different directions in sequence during the assembly process, which can improve the bending accuracy.

[0016] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0018] Figure 1 It is a flow chart of an FPC bending method according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 2 2 is a flow chart of an FPC bending method according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a diagram of the bending process of the FPC board.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a structural schematic diagram of an FPC bending device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] Figure 5It is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an FPC bending device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of point B is shown.

[0024] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the partial structure of an FPC bending device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the partial structural decomposition of an FPC bending device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0026] Figure 9 A schematic structural diagram of the second bending mechanism of an FPC bending device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of point A is shown.

[0028] Figure 11 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a second bending mechanism of an FPC bending device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0029] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram of the partial structure inside the FPC bending device of another embodiment of the present application.

[0030] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An enlarged view of point C is shown.

[0031] Reference numerals: 1. First bending mechanism; 11. First bending member; 111. Second driving member; 12. Second bending member; 121. Third driving member; 13. Mounting plate; 131. Avoidance hole; 14. Pressing member; 141. Pressing plate; 142. Pressing rod; 143. Elastic member; 144. Fourth driving member; 15. Mounting bracket; 2. First driving member; 3. Positioning plate; 4. First assembly platform; 5. Visual camera; 6. Baffle; 7. Second Bending mechanism; 71. Robotic arm; 72. First clamp; 73. Second assembly table; 74. Second clamp; 75. Mounting seat; 76. Sixth drive member; 8. Housing; 81. Feed port; 9. Material hopper; 10. Fifth drive member; 20. FPC board; 21. First bending portion; 22. Second bending portion; 23. Main body; 20-1. First FPC board; 20-2. Second FPC board; 20-3. Third FPC board. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, numerical expressions and numerical values ​​set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0033] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0034] Technologies, methods, and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the technologies, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0035] In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not limiting. Therefore, other examples of the exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0036] It should be noted that like reference numerals and letters refer to like items in the following figures, and therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present application, a method for bending an FPC is provided. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the FPC board 20 has a main body 23, and a first bending portion 21 and a second bending portion 22 connected to the main body 23. The FPC bending method includes: S100: Bend the first bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis. For example, the first bent portion 21 of the FPC board 20 can be bent along the X-axis using the first bending member 11. That is, the first bending member 11 pushes one end or base of the first bent portion 21 to rotate about the X-axis, thereby achieving the bending effect along the X-axis.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the FPC board 20 is an unbent board, and the first bending portion 21 in the first FPC board 20-1 is the structure after the FPC board 20 is bent by the first bending member 11. The first bending portion 21 can be a gold finger of the FPC board 20. The first bending member 11 can move along the Z-axis direction. And push the first bending portion 21 to bend along the X-axis, for example, drive the first bending portion 21 to rotate downward along the X-axis. Among them, the first bending portion 21 can rotate 90° or close to 90° along the X-axis, or other angles. Those skilled in the art can determine according to actual conditions, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0039] S200: Bend the second bent portion of the FPC board along the Y-axis so that the second bent portion 22 and the first bent portion 21 are located on the same side of the main body 23. For example, the second bent portion 22 of the FPC board 20 can be bent along the Y-axis using the second bending member 12. That is, the second bending member 12 pushes one end or base of the second bent portion 22 to rotate about the Y-axis, thereby achieving the bending effect along the Y-axis.

[0040] The second bending portion 22 and the first bending portion 21 are located on the same side of the main body 23. For example, if the FPC board 20 is placed horizontally, the second bending portion 22 is rotated downward about the Y-axis and bent to the lower side of the main body 23. The first bending portion 21 is rotated downward about the X-axis and also bent to the lower side of the main body 23.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the second bending portion 22 in the first FPC board 20-1 is the structure after the FPC board 20 is bent by the second bending piece 12. The second bending portion 22 can be the electrical connection portion of the FPC board 20 with the product. The second bending piece 12 can move along the Z axis, thereby pushing the second bending portion 22 to bend along the Y axis. For example, the second bending portion 22 is driven to rotate downward along the Y axis. Among them, the second bending portion 22 can be rotated along the Y axis by 30°, 45° or 60°, etc., so that when the FPC board 20 is assembled, the second bending portion 22 can avoid the structure in the product. Of course, as to the specific bending angle, those skilled in the art can determine it according to the actual situation, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0042] It should be noted that when the FPC board 20 has multiple second bending portions 22, the second bending member 12 can be provided with multiple bending portions, each corresponding to the second bending portion 22. The multiple bending portions can simultaneously bend multiple second bending portions 22.

[0043] S300, bend the second bending portion of the FPC board along the X axis, and then bend the second bending portion of the FPC board along the Z axis, so that the portion of the second bending portion after the Z axis bending is arranged parallel to the first bending portion. For example, the second bending portion 22 after the second bending portion 12 is bent can be further bent by a third bending member. That is, the third bending member can drive Figure 3 One end or the root of the second bending portion 22 of the first FPC board 20 - 1 is first rotated about the X-axis and then about the Z-axis, thereby achieving a bending operation.

[0044] The third bending member first drives the second bending portion 22 to bend along the X-axis, for example, by rotating the second bending portion 22 upward along the X-axis by a certain angle to avoid other structures in the product. The third bending member then drives the second bending portion 22 to bend along the Z-axis to connect the second bending portion 22 to the corresponding position of the product. The specific rotation angle of the second bending portion 22 can be determined by those skilled in the art based on actual conditions and is not specifically limited here.

[0045] In this example, the second bent portion 22 is arranged parallel to the first bent portion 21, and the second bent portion 22 extends along the Z-axis. For example, the second bent portion 22 and the first bent portion 21 may be plates, and the second bent portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z-axis to a certain angle so that the second bent portion 22 is parallel to the first bent portion 21, and the length or width of the second bent portion 22 extends along the Z-axis.

[0046] In this example, the third bending member may be composed of a four-axis robotic arm 71 and a first clamp 72. The robotic arm 71 is connected to the first clamp 72. The first clamp 72 can clamp the second bending portion 22 and then accurately perform a multi-axis bending operation under the drive of the robotic arm 71. The first clamp 72 may be an electric clamp.

[0047] In this example, during the assembly process of the FPC board 20, multiple bending parts are used to bend the first bending portion and the second bending portion 22 on the FPC board 20 in different directions respectively, which can improve the bending accuracy and the efficiency of the FPC board 20 assembly.

[0048] In one example, bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the X-axis and then bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Z-axis further includes: bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Y-axis.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the bending steps of the FPC board 20 include: S310 , bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the X-axis.

[0050] S320 , bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Z axis.

[0051] S330: Bend the second bent portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Y-axis. Specifically, the third bending member can first be used to bend the second bent portion 22 of the first FPC board 20-1 along the X-axis. For example, the second bent portion 22 can be rotated upward along the X-axis by a certain angle to avoid other components in the product. The third bending member then bends the second bent portion 22 along the Z-axis, aligning the plane of the second bent portion 22 with the plane formed by the X- and Y-axes, i.e., parallel to the first bent portion 21 and aligned with the mounting portion on the product.

[0052] Since the third bending member needs to avoid the structure of the product when bending the second bending portion 22, the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 may be skewed after being bent along the Z axis. At this time, the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 is bent along the Y axis to further adjust the position of the second bending portion 22 so that the second bending portion 22 can extend along the Z axis. The second bending portion 22 is then bent along the Y axis by the third bending member, for example, it is bent upward along the Y axis to be bent into Figure 3 The structure of the second bent portion 22 of the third FPC board 20-3 is shown. This allows the second bent portion 22 to be connected to the mounting portion of the product. The specific angle of rotation of the second bent portion 22 can be determined by those skilled in the art based on actual conditions and is not specifically limited herein.

[0053] In this example, the third bending member first drives the second bending portion 22 of the first FPC board 20-1 to bend along the X-axis, thereby avoiding other structures in the product. Figure 3 In the figure, the first FPC board 20-1 is the shape of the FPC board 20 bent under the action of the first bending mechanism 1. The second FPC board 20-2 is the partial bending process of the second bending portion 22 under the action of the second bending mechanism 7. The second bending portion 22 of the third FPC board 20-3 is the shape of the bending under the action of the second bending mechanism 7. Then the robot arm 71 can simultaneously drive the first clamp to rotate along the Z axis and the Y axis, so that the second bending portion 22 is bent to the arc-shaped trajectory. Figure 3 The structure of the second bent portion 22 of the third FPC board 20-3.

[0054] In one example, before the step of bending the first bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis, the FPC bending method further includes: positioning the FPC board 20 .

[0055] In this example, the material is removed by a material removal component, for example, by suction. After removal, the FPC board 20 is transported to a predetermined position and then bent by the first bending component 11 and the second bending component 12. Prior to removal, the FPC board 20 can be positioned, thereby improving the bending and assembly accuracy of the FPC board 20.

[0056] In one example, positioning the FPC board 20 includes placing the FPC board 20 on a positioning plate 3 to position the FPC board 20 .

[0057] like Figure 13 As shown, the positioning plate 3 is provided with multiple positioning posts. The FPC board 20 is placed on the positioning plate 3, and the positioning posts can penetrate the FPC board 20. The multiple positioning posts cooperate to position the FPC board 20. The positioning plate 3 is also provided with negative pressure holes, which can absorb the FPC board 20 and prevent it from shifting.

[0058] In one example, after positioning the FPC board, the FPC bending method further includes: transporting the FPC board to a first assembly position.

[0059] In this example, after the FPC board 20 is positioned, the first bending mechanism 1 absorbs the FPC board 20 and transports it to the first assembly position. At the first assembly position, the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 bend the FPC board 20 and assemble it into the product.

[0060] In one example, multiple FPC boards are bent, spaced apart along the Y-axis and having height differences along the Z-axis. Multiple FPC boards 20 can be bent simultaneously, thereby improving work efficiency. The height differences along the Z-axis prevent interference.

[0061] In this example, a plurality of the first bending members 11 are arranged at intervals, and the plurality of the first bending members 11 have a height difference in the Z-axis direction, and the plurality of the first bending members 11 can bend the plurality of the FPC boards 20 respectively; and / or, A plurality of the second bending members 12 are arranged at intervals. The plurality of the second bending members 12 have height differences in the Z-axis direction. The plurality of the second bending members 12 can bend a plurality of the FPC boards 20 respectively.

[0062] In this example, a plurality of first bending members 11 are provided, so that a plurality of FPC boards 20 can be bent separately, thereby improving work efficiency. The plurality of first bending members 11 have height differences in the Z-axis direction, thereby avoiding interference.

[0063] For example, two first bending members 11 may be arranged at intervals along the Y-axis, and the two first bending members 11 may have a height difference in the Z-axis direction.

[0064] In this example, multiple second bending members 12 can be provided to enable separate bending operations on multiple FPC boards 20, thereby improving work efficiency. The multiple second bending members 12 have height differences in the Z-axis direction to avoid interference. The number of first bending members 11 and second bending members 12 can be set to be the same, thereby enabling bending of the first bending portion 21 and the second bending portion 22 of multiple FPC boards 20.

[0065] For example, two second bending members 12 may be arranged at intervals along the Y-axis, and the two second bending members 12 may have a height difference in the Z-axis direction.

[0066] In one example, before bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the X-axis, the method further includes: assembling the FPC board 20 on a product.

[0067] In this example, the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 respectively bend the FPC board 20, and then the FPC board 20 can be assembled into the product. Then, the third bending member further bends the second bending portion 22.

[0068] In this example, the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 can respectively push the first bending portion 21 and the second bending portion 22 to bend, while maintaining the first bending portion 21 and the second bending portion 22 in the bent state. The first bending member 11 and the first bending portion 21 are then inserted into the product together. The second bending member 12 and the second bending portion 22 are inserted into the product together, securing the first bending portion 21 and the second bending portion 22 in the product. This allows the first bending portion and the second bending portion 22 to be smoothly installed into the product, while ensuring the bending and assembly accuracy of the FPC board 20. After the FPC board 20 is installed in the product, the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 are removed from the product.

[0069] Alternatively, the FPC board 20 can be installed on the product first, and then the first bending part 11 and the second bending part 12 can be pushed to bend the first bending part 21 and the second bending part 22 into the product respectively, and the first bending part 21 and the second bending part 22 can be fixed in the product.

[0070] In one example, assembling the FPC board 20 on a product includes: pressing the FPC board 20 into the product.

[0071] like Figure 8As shown, in this example, the FPC board 20 can be pressed into the product by the pressing member 14. The pressing member 14 can move along the Z-axis to press the FPC board 20 into the product, thereby assembling the FPC board 20 to the product. For example, the pressing member 14 presses the FPC board 20 against the product so that the buckle on the product can lock the FPC board 20.

[0072] In one example, before assembling the FPC board 20 on the product, the method further includes: collecting the actual position of the product and adjusting the product to a preset position.

[0073] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in this example, the product is carried on the first assembly table 4, and the visual camera 5 is located on one side of the first assembly table 4. The visual camera 5 can take pictures of the product on the first assembly table 4 to collect the actual position of the product. The visual camera 5 can guide the assembly of the FPC board 20.

[0074] The first assembly platform 4 can be movably arranged, and the visual camera 5 can take pictures of the product on the first assembly platform 4 to determine the position of the product. When the product is offset, the first assembly platform 4 can rotate to drive the product to rotate and adjust the product position. The rotation of the first assembly platform 4 can be driven by a rotation drive device, for example, a motor.

[0075] In this example, a light source is provided on one side of the visual camera 5. The light source can be adjusted by a cylinder to better illuminate the product. After the product position is adjusted, the cylinder drives the light source away to avoid other structures.

[0076] In one example, after assembling the FPC board to the product, the method further includes: The product is transported to a second assembly position, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the X-axis, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z-axis.

[0077] In this example, bending the first bending portion 21 of the FPC board 20 along the X-axis and bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Y-axis can be performed at the first assembly position. Bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the X-axis and then bending the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 along the Z-axis can be performed at the second assembly position. That is, the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 are located in the same process, and the third bending member is located in another process. The product can be conveyed to the second assembly position, that is, the process where the third bending member is located, by a conveying mechanism. The first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 bend the first bending portion 21 and the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 respectively, and the FPC board 20 is assembled on the product. The product is then conveyed to the position of the third bending member by the conveying mechanism, and the third bending member further bends the second bending portion 22. The third bending member is arranged separately from the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 so that the structures of the third bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 can be modularized, which is beneficial to the assembly and maintenance of each structure.

[0078] The conveying mechanism may be a conveyor belt, a robot, or a combination of different types of conveying mechanisms, etc. Those skilled in the art may determine the method according to actual circumstances, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0079] In one example, the method further includes conveying multiple products to a second assembly position, and sequentially bending the second bending portions 22 of the FPC boards 20 of the multiple products. Specifically, the multiple products are conveyed to the position of the third bending member, which is movable between the multiple products, thereby sequentially bending the FPC boards 20 of the multiple products.

[0080] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown in this example, the third bending member includes a robotic arm 71 and a first clamping jaw 72. The robotic arm 71 is connected to the first clamping jaw 72. The first clamping jaw 72 can clamp the second bending portion 22 and then, driven by the robotic arm 71, can accurately perform multi-axis bending operations. Multiple second assembly platforms 73 are arranged at intervals on the outer periphery of the third bending member, and products can be placed on the second assembly platforms 73.

[0081] In this example, the third bending member can be moved between multiple products to bend the FPC boards 20 of products on different second assembly stations 73. While the third bending member is bending the FPC board 20 of a product on one of the second assembly stations 73, the remaining second assembly stations 73 can serve as material preparation stations, thereby increasing the utilization rate of the third bending member and thus improving work efficiency.

[0082] For example, two second assembly stations 73 are provided, each connected to an X-axis cylinder and a Y-axis cylinder. The X-axis cylinder's end along the X-axis serves as a loading station, while the Y-axis cylinder's end along the Y-axis serves as a loading station. The X-axis and Y-axis cylinders alternately remove materials, bending and assembling the FPC board 20 at the end away from the loading station, thereby avoiding interference with the third bending member.

[0083] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an FPC bending device is provided, which is capable of performing the FPC bending method described in the above embodiment.

[0084] like Figures 4 to 8 As shown, in this example, the FPC bending device includes a first bending mechanism 1. The first bending mechanism 1 includes a suction member, a first bending member 11, and a second bending member 12. The suction member is suitable for sucking the FPC board 20. The first bending member 11 can be inserted into the suction member and can move along the Z axis to push the first bending portion 21 of the FPC board 20 to bend along the X axis. The second bending member 12 can be inserted into the suction member and can move along the Z axis to push the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20 to bend along the Y axis.

[0085] like Figure 8 As shown, in this example, the first bending member 11 can be a plate structure, and the second driving member 111 can drive the first bending member 11 to move along the Z-axis direction. The first bending portion 21 can be a gold finger of the FPC board 20. The FPC board 20 is a plate that has not been bent, and the first FPC board 20-1 is the structure after the FPC board 20 is bent by the first bending mechanism 1. The adsorption member adsorbs the FPC board 20, and then the second driving member 111 drives the first bending member 11 to move toward the first bending portion 21, passes through the adsorption member, and pushes the first bending portion 21 to bend along the X-axis. For example, the first bending portion 21 can be rotated 90° or close to 90° along the X-axis. Those skilled in the art can determine according to actual conditions, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0086] like Figure 8 As shown, in this example, the second bending member 12 can be a plate structure and can be provided with multiple bends corresponding to the second bend 22 of the FPC board 20. The second bend 22 is the electrical connection between the FPC board 20 and the product. The third driving member 121 can drive the second bending member 12 to move along the Z-axis, thereby pushing the second bend 22 to bend along the Y-axis. For example, the second bend 22 can be rotated 30°, 45°, or 60° along the Y-axis. These can be determined by those skilled in the art based on actual conditions, and are not specifically limited here.

[0087] It should be noted that the second driving member 111 can be a driving device such as a cylinder or a linear motor. Those skilled in the art can determine it according to actual conditions and no specific limitation is made here.

[0088] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in this example, the first bending mechanism 1 further includes a mounting plate 13, to which the first driving member 2 and the second driving member 111 are mounted. A suction nozzle or suction plate is provided at one end of the mounting plate 13 along the Z-axis to form a suction member. A clearance hole 131 is provided through the mounting plate 13 along the Z-axis, through which the first bending member 11 can be inserted. Furthermore, a hollow portion for clearance is provided on the mounting plate 13 corresponding to the position of the second bending member 12.

[0089] like Figure 8 As shown, in one example, the first bending mechanism 1 further includes a pressing member 14 , which can be passed through the adsorption member and can press the FPC board 20 into the product.

[0090] The first bending member 11 pushes the first bending portion 21 to maintain its bend, and the second bending member 12 pushes the second bending portion 22 to maintain its bend. Then, the first bending mechanism 1 can be moved toward the product, and the first bending member 11 and the first bending portion 21 are inserted into the product together, and the second bending member 12 and the second bending portion 22 are inserted into the product together. This allows the first bending portion and the second bending portion 22 to be smoothly inserted into the product, and then the first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 are withdrawn from the product. The lower pressing member 14 then presses the FPC board 20 against the product, allowing the buckle on the product to secure the FPC board 20.

[0091] Alternatively, the lower pressing member 14 can be used to press the FPC board 20 against the product, allowing the buckle on the product to lock onto the FPC board 20. The first bending member 11 and the second bending member 12 are then used to bend the first and second bending portions 21 and 22, respectively, and secure them within the product. This method will be determined by those skilled in the art based on actual circumstances, and is not specifically limited here.

[0092] like Figure 5 As shown, in this example, the lower pressing member 14 includes a pressing plate 141 and a plurality of pressing rods 142 . The plurality of pressing rods 142 are mounted on the pressing plate 141 , and the pressing rods 142 are suitable for abutting against the FPC board 20 .

[0093] In this example, multiple pressing rods 142 are connected to the pressing plate 141 at intervals, and the pressing rods 142 can be installed through the mounting plate 13. The pressing plate 141 can simultaneously drive the multiple pressing rods 142 to press down the FPC board 20, thereby making the force on the FPC board 20 more uniform, so that the FPC board 20 can be smoothly pressed into the product.

[0094] In this example, the fourth driving member 144 can drive the pressing plate 141 to move along the Z-axis direction, thereby simultaneously driving the plurality of pressing rods 142 to press down the FPC board 20 . The fourth driving member 144 can be fixedly mounted on the mounting plate 13 .

[0095] like Figure 8 As shown, in this example, the pressure head of the pressure rod 142 can be a circular structure or a square structure, etc. Those skilled in the art can determine it according to actual conditions, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0096] It should be noted that the fourth driving member 144 can be a driving device such as a cylinder or a linear motor. Those skilled in the art can determine it according to actual conditions and no specific limitation is made here.

[0097] like Figure 8 As shown, in one example, the pressing rod 142 can be movably connected to the pressing plate 141 , and an elastic member 143 is provided between the pressing rod 142 and the pressing plate 141 .

[0098] In this example, the pressure rod 142 can be movably installed in the pressure plate 141, and the elastic member 143 can be a cylindrical spring. The elastic member 143 can be installed on the pressure rod 142, with one end of the spring abutting the pressure rod 142 and the other end abutting the pressure plate 141. When the pressure rod 142 presses down on the FPC board 20, the elastic member 143 can contract to provide a buffering effect, preventing the pressure rod 142 from damaging the FPC board 20.

[0099] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in one example, two first bending mechanisms 1 are arranged at intervals, and the two first bending mechanisms 1 have a height difference in the Z-axis direction.

[0100] In this example, the two first bending mechanisms 1 can be spaced apart along the Y-axis. By providing two first bending mechanisms 1, two FPC boards 20 can be bent simultaneously, thereby improving work efficiency. The two first bending mechanisms 1 have a height difference along the Z-axis, allowing them to avoid each other, thereby preventing interference between them.

[0101] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device further includes two first driving members 2 , and the two first driving members 2 can respectively drive the two first bending mechanisms 1 to move in the Z-axis direction.

[0102] In this example, the mounting plate 13 can be mounted on the mounting bracket 15, and the first driving member 2 is drivingly connected to the mounting bracket 15, so that the first driving member 2 can drive the first bending mechanism 1 to move along the Z-axis. When assembling the FPC board 20, the product is located below the first bending mechanism 1, and the first driving member 2 can drive the first bending mechanism 1 downward to facilitate the assembly of the FPC board 20. After assembly is complete, the first driving member 2 can drive the first bending mechanism 1 upward to move away from the product, allowing the product to enter the next process.

[0103] The mounting bracket 15 may be assembled from a plurality of rods and plates. The specific structure of the mounting bracket 15 may be determined by those skilled in the art according to actual conditions and is not specifically limited here.

[0104] In this example, by providing two first driving members 2 to drive the two first bending mechanisms 1, respectively, structural flexibility can be enhanced. Specifically, the FPC board 20 can be assembled on one first bending mechanism 1 first, and then the FPC board 20 on the other first bending mechanism 1. Alternatively, both FPC boards 20 can be assembled simultaneously. This is a method that can be determined by those skilled in the art based on practical circumstances and is not specifically limited herein.

[0105] It should be noted that the first driving member 2 may be a driving device such as a cylinder or a linear motor. Those skilled in the art may determine it according to actual conditions and no specific limitation is made here.

[0106] like Figure 6 and Figure 13 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device also includes a positioning plate 3 and a first assembly table 4, wherein the positioning plate 3 is suitable for placing the FPC board 20 to position the FPC board 20, the first assembly table 4 is suitable for carrying the product, and the first bending mechanism 1 can move between the positioning plate 3 and the first assembly table 4.

[0107] like Figure 4 As shown, in this example, the FPC bending device also includes a hopper 9, which contains an FPC board 20. The hopper 9 can be manually loaded. A suction cup can absorb the FPC board 20 from the hopper 9 and then place it on the positioning plate 3. The positioning plate 3 can position the FPC board 20. The first bending mechanism 1 can absorb the FPC board 20 from the positioning plate 3, then move it to the position of the first assembly station 4 for assembly. The positioning plate 3 can first position the FPC board 20, thereby improving assembly accuracy.

[0108] In this example, the positioning plate 3 is provided with a plurality of positioning posts, which penetrate the FPC board 20 to position the FPC board 20. The positioning plate 3 is also provided with negative pressure holes, which can absorb the FPC board 20 and prevent it from deflecting.

[0109] like Figure 12 As shown, in this example, the fifth drive member 10 can drive the first bending mechanism 1 to move along the Y-axis, thereby enabling movement between the positioning plate 3 and the first assembly platform 4. The fifth drive member 10 can be a dual-actuator linear motor. The fifth drive member 10 can drive the suction cup to pick up the material and also drive the first bending mechanism 1 to move along the Y-axis. This saves space and improves the compactness of the structure.

[0110] It should be noted that one of the movers of the fifth drive member 10 is connected to a cylinder, which is connected to the first drive member 2 via a support plate, so that the cylinder can drive the first bending mechanism 1 to move along the X-axis. The two first drive members 2 are both connected to the support plate, and the cylinder is connected to the support plate. The cylinder can synchronously drive the two first bending mechanisms 1.

[0111] It should also be noted that the other mover of the fifth drive member 10 is connected to the suction cup through the X-axis cylinder and the Z-axis cylinder. That is, the mover of the fifth drive member 10 is connected to the X-axis cylinder, the X-axis cylinder is connected to the Z-axis cylinder, and the Z-axis cylinder is connected to the suction cup. After the fifth drive member 10 drives the suction cup to move to the material picking position, the X-axis cylinder drives the Z-axis cylinder to move along the X-axis direction to the preset position, and then the Z-axis cylinder drives the suction cup to move downward along the Z-axis direction, so that the suction cup can absorb the FPC board 20 in the silo 9. Then the X-axis cylinder and the Z-axis cylinder run in opposite directions. The fifth drive member 10 then drives the suction cup to the positioning plate 3, and the FPC board 20 on the suction cup can be placed on the positioning plate 3 through the X-axis cylinder and the Z-axis cylinder.

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device also includes a visual camera 5, which is located on one side of the first assembly table 4. The visual camera 5 can take pictures of the product on the first assembly table 4. The first assembly table 4 is movably arranged, and the first assembly table 4 can drive the product to adjust its position.

[0113] In this example, the visual camera 5 guides the assembly of the FPC board 20. The visual camera 5 can capture images of the product on the first assembly platform 4, thereby determining the product's position. If the product shifts, the first assembly platform 4 can rotate to drive the product, thereby adjusting its position. The rotation of the first assembly platform 4 can be driven by a rotation drive device, such as a motor.

[0114] In this example, the FPC bending device also includes a light source that works with the visual camera 5. The light source can be adjusted by a cylinder to better illuminate the product. After the product position is adjusted, the cylinder drives the light source away to avoid the first bending mechanism 1.

[0115] like Figure 6 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device further includes a baffle 6 , which is located on at least one side of the first assembly platform 4 .

[0116] In this example, the product is fixed in the flow tooling, and the flow tooling is transported to the first assembly station 4 via a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt can be composed of two belts, and the first assembly station 4 is located between the two belts. During feeding, the baffle 6 located in front of the first assembly station 4 moves upward along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt, driven by the cylinder, to block the flow tooling on the first assembly station 4, and then a positioning pin is inserted into the flow tooling by a cylinder to further fix the flow tooling. After the flow tooling enters the first assembly station 4, the baffle 6 located on the rear side of the first assembly station 4 moves upward along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt, driven by the cylinder, to block the flow tooling at the rear. After the FPC board 20 is assembled, the baffle 6 moves downward, and the positioning pin is pulled out of the flow tooling to facilitate the flow of the flow tooling to the next process.

[0117] like Figure 3 As shown, in one example, two positioning plates 3 are arranged at intervals, and the two positioning plates 3 have a height difference in the Z-axis direction.

[0118] In this example, the positioning plates 3 are spaced apart along the Y-axis direction, and the two positioning plates 3 have a height difference in the Z-axis direction, so as to facilitate the two first bending mechanisms 1 to take materials and avoid interference.

[0119] It should be noted that one of the positioning plates 3 is connected to a pneumatic cylinder, which drives one positioning plate 3 relative to the other along the Z axis to create a height difference. For example, after the suction cup has finished unloading the material, the cylinder can drive the positioning plate 3 to move along the Z axis to create a height difference. After the first bending mechanism 1 has finished removing the material, the cylinder drives the positioning plate 3 to move along the Z axis so that the two positioning plates 3 are in the same plane, facilitating the unloading of the material from the suction cup.

[0120] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device also includes a second bending mechanism 7, the second bending mechanism 7 includes a robotic arm 71, the robotic arm 71 is provided with a first clamping jaw 72, the first clamping jaw 72 can clamp the second bending portion 22 of the FPC board 20, and the robotic arm 71 can drive the first clamping jaw 72 to bend the second bending portion 22 in multiple directions.

[0121] In this example, the second bending mechanism 7 bends the FPC board 20 and assembles it into the product, and then the product with the FPC board 20 is transferred to the second bending mechanism 7. The second bending mechanism 7 can further bend and assemble the FPC board 20.

[0122] like Figure 9 As shown, in this example, the robotic arm 71 can be a four-axis robotic arm 71. The robotic arm 71 is connected to a first clamping jaw 72. The second clamping jaw 74 clamps a portion of the second bent portion 22. The robotic arm 71 then drives the second bent portion 22 to bend further and secure it to the product. A buckle is provided within the product. After the robotic arm 71 bends the second bent portion 22 to a predetermined shape, the buckle secures the second bent portion 22 to the product.

[0123] like Figure 3 The first FPC board 20-1 is the shape of the FPC board 20 bent by the first bending mechanism 1. The second bending portion 22 of the third FPC board 20-3 is the shape of the FPC board 20 bent by the second bending mechanism 7.

[0124] Among them, after the first clamping claw 72 clamps the second bending portion 22 of the first FPC board 20-1, the robotic arm 71 will first drive the second bending portion 22 to bend upward at a certain angle with the X-axis as the axis, so as to avoid the structure in the product, and then drive the second bending portion 22 to bend to the position in the third FPC board 20-3.

[0125] In this example, the first clamping jaw 72 may be an electric clamping jaw, and the size of the clamping jaw opening may be controlled to accommodate FPC boards 20 of different sizes.

[0126] like Figure 11 As shown, in one example, the second bending mechanism 7 further includes a plurality of second assembly tables 73 , which are suitable for carrying products. The robotic arm 71 can bend the FPC boards 20 in the plurality of products in sequence.

[0127] In this example, multiple second assembly tables 73 are spaced apart on the periphery of the robot arm 71. When the product on one assembly table is being assembled with the FPC board 20, the other second assembly tables 73 can be loaded or unloaded, thereby improving the utilization rate of the robot arm 71 and helping to improve work efficiency.

[0128] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in one example, the second bending mechanism 7 further includes a second clamping jaw 74 , and the second clamping jaw 74 can transfer the product to the second assembly table 73 or remove the product from the second assembly table 73 .

[0129] In this example, the flow tooling can be transported to the second bending mechanism 7 via a conveyor belt. The second clamping jaw 74 can clamp the flow tooling, and then, driven by the sixth driving member 76, it moves to the loading position of the second assembly platform 73. The unloading position has the second assembly platform 73. The sixth driving member 76 can be a driving device such as a cylinder or a linear motor. Those skilled in the art can determine the specific configuration based on actual conditions, and this is not specifically limited here.

[0130] For example, Figure 9 As shown, two second assembly platforms 73 are provided, each connected to an X-axis cylinder and a Y-axis cylinder. The X-axis cylinder and the Y-axis cylinder alternately remove materials, bending and assembling the FPC board 20 at the end away from the loading position. This prevents interference between the robot arm 71 and the second gripper 74.

[0131] In this example, the second clamping jaw 74 can be connected to the sixth driving member 76 via a Z-axis transmission. That is, the sixth driving member 76 is connected to a Z-axis cylinder, and the Z-axis cylinder is connected to the second clamping jaw 74 via a Z-axis transmission.

[0132] like Figure 10 As shown, the second clamping jaw 74 includes two sets of clamping rods, each set of clamping rods having two clamping rods. The two sets of clamping rods can be driven toward each other by a bidirectional cylinder to clamp the flow tooling. The two sets of clamping rods can also be driven away from each other by a bidirectional cylinder to release the flow tooling.

[0133] In one example, a plurality of the second bending mechanisms 7 are arranged at intervals, thereby improving the bending and assembly efficiency.

[0134] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, two second bending mechanisms 7 can be provided, and the two second bending mechanisms 7 are spaced apart and arranged on the mounting seat 75. Alternatively, three, four or five second bending mechanisms 7 can be provided, and those skilled in the art can determine according to actual conditions, which is not limited here.

[0135] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in one example, the FPC bending device also includes a shell 8, and the first bending mechanism 1 and the structure related to the first bending mechanism 1 are arranged in the shell 8. One end of the shell 8 along the Y-axis direction has an opening for loading materials into the hopper 9. The shell 8 is also provided with a feed port 81 and a discharge port at both ends along the X-axis. The conveyor belt is used to transport the flow tooling, one end of the conveyor belt is located at the feed port 81, and the other end is located at the discharge port. There are two conveyor belts, corresponding to two groups of first bending mechanisms 1. For example, the two groups of first bending mechanisms 1 are spaced apart along the X-axis direction. Each group is provided with two first bending mechanisms 1. Each group of first bending mechanisms 1 also corresponds to two hoppers 9, as well as structures such as a suction cup and a fifth drive member 10.

[0136] The above embodiments focus on the differences between the various embodiments. As long as the different optimization features between the various embodiments are not contradictory, they can be combined to form a better embodiment. Considering the simplicity of the text, they will not be repeated here.

[0137] Although some specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail by way of examples, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above examples are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A FPC bending method, characterized in that: The FPC board has a main body, and a first bent portion and a second bent portion connected to the main body, and the method includes: Bending the first bending portion of the FPC board along the X-axis; bending the second bent portion of the FPC board along the Y-axis so that the second bent portion and the first bent portion are located on the same side of the main body; The second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the X-axis, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z-axis, so that the Z-bent portion of the second bending portion is arranged parallel to the first bending portion.

2. The FPC bending method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Before the step of bending the first bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis, the method further includes: Positioning the FPC board.

3. The FPC bending method according to claim 2, characterized in that: After positioning the FPC board, the FPC bending method further includes: The FPC board is transported to a first assembly position.

4. The FPC bending method according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of FPC boards are bent, the plurality of FPC boards are spaced apart along the Y axis, and the plurality of FPC boards have height differences in the Z axis direction.

5. The FPC bending method according to claim 1, wherein: Before bending the second bent portion of the FPC board along the X-axis, the method further includes: The FPC board is assembled on a product.

6. The FPC bending method according to claim 5, characterized in that: Assembling the FPC board to the product includes: The FPC board is pressed into the product.

7. The FPC bending method according to claim 5, characterized in that: Before assembling the FPC board to the product, the method further includes: The actual position of the product is collected and the product is adjusted to a preset position.

8. The FPC bending method according to claim 5, characterized in that: After assembling the FPC board to the product, the method further includes: The product is transported to a second assembly position, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the X-axis, and then the second bending portion of the FPC board is bent along the Z-axis.

9. The FPC bending method according to claim 8, characterized in that: The method further comprises: A plurality of products are conveyed to a second assembly position, and the second bending portions of the FPC boards of the plurality of products are bent in sequence.

10. An FPC bending device, characterized in that: The FPC bending device can perform the FPC bending method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images